Yamaha FS1-E
77/100 Overall
55 On the road98 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Yamaha FS1-E vs Honda SS50
Yamaha FS1-E scores 77/100 overall against Honda SS50 on 73/100. On the road: 55–58. As classics: 98–88. Overall result: Yamaha FS1-E.
Photo: Michiel1972 at Dutch Wikipedia · CC BY-SA 3.0
Honda SS50
73/100 Overall
58 On the road88 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Yamaha FS1-E | Honda SS50 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 3 | 2 | Yamaha FS1-E |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 4 | 4 | Level |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 7 | 9 | Honda SS50 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 4 | 5 | Honda SS50 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 9 | Yamaha FS1-E |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 9 | Yamaha FS1-E |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 8 | Yamaha FS1-E |
Choose the Yamaha FS1-E if…
you want the defining British 1970s sports moped, with huge nostalgia, lively styling and an unforgettable place in learner-bike culture.
Choose the Honda SS50 if…
you want smooth four-stroke Honda engineering, classic sports-moped styling and a gentler alternative to the two-stroke crowd.
Background
History
Yamaha FS1-E
The Yamaha FS1-E was produced from 1973–1977 and used a 49cc air-cooled two-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for historic importance, collector appeal, character. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Honda SS50
The Honda SS50 was produced from 1967–1977 and used a 49cc air-cooled four-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, reliability, historic importance. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Yamaha FS1-E
- Its production span in this library runs from 1973 to 1977.
- The recorded engine description is: 49cc air-cooled two-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are historic importance, collector appeal, character.
Honda SS50
- Its production span in this library runs from 1967 to 1977.
- The recorded engine description is: 49cc air-cooled four-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, reliability, historic importance.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Yamaha FS1-E
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha FS1-E. Its library score for historic importance is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Honda SS50
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Honda SS50. Its library score for styling is 9/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Yamaha FS1-E
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection or premix arrangement, crank seals and exhaust condition carefully.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Honda SS50
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check vibration-related fasteners, primary drive condition and signs of persistent oil leakage.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Yamaha FS1-E
Rivals to the Honda SS50
Final result
The verdict
Honda SS50 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Yamaha FS1-E wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Yamaha FS1-E takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.