1958 Honda model JC
The JC58 is the last of the J-series Honda models. It followed the JC56 and JC57. Turn signals were new for 1958 along with some other minor changes from the 57 model. The engine is basically the same as the other JC models in the series with a displacement of 125 cc. The transmission is a 3 speed.

This was the last of a series of motorcycles that allowed the business to grow and prosper in the late 50s. When this bike and the other models that were in production in 1958 are compared to the product line that was exported around the world in 1959 you understand why the model did not change significantly from the previous year.

Imagine the work that was taking place in the Honda factories at that time. Domestic and export models of the Super Cub, CB92, CA95, and the Hawk, Dream and Scrambler were being readied for production and export. This was all happening while the 58’ models were being produced for sale at record numbers. Keeping in mind that by 1959, Honda was the worlds largest producer of motorcycles, the excitement and pace of activity must have been truly fantastic. There were no robots, CNC machine tools or any of the other advances that we have today, and yet Honda was getting ready to change the face of motorcycling.

This machine is an original, un-restored copy that was brought over from Japan in 2005. It has certainly been well maintained, starts remarkably easy and runs quite strong. At only 8 horsepower, it does not put the rider at much risk of speeding tickets, but man is it fun to ride. You can’t stop grinning under the helmet.