Quite possibly the best minibike sold in the United States, the Honda NSR50 was sold here just in 2004. In the world of 50cc sportbikes (like the Yamaha YSR50 and Suzuki GSXR50), the NSR50 was dynamically in a world of its own. Though it’s not street legal like its competition, the Honda was peerless on the racetrack. Because of that, you’ll often find it racing bigger, 100-110cc bikes on go kart tracks and in M1GP.
Producing 7.2 horsepower at about 10,000 rpm, the 49 cc two-stroke thumper was liquid cooled and redlined at 11.5k. This helped powered the NSR50 to a top speed of about 60 mph. Ask anyone serious about racing and they’ll tell you that this is probably the best bike to get started on. Frankly, many experienced riders love getting practice on the NSR50 and its incredibly light weight of just 161 pounds. Though it only sold for one year in the states, Honda dealerships still carry spare parts. Original MSRP was $3,600, much higher than its competition. But buyers thought it was worth the extra cost, as it punched above its weight.
This specific Honda NSR50 is in excellent shape, with low miles and new tires. You’ll also get access to spares, though the seller won’t throw them in for free. Apparently it only served practice duty, but this would be an excellent starting point for anyone, no matter the age or size, to get started in racing.
Find this Honda NSR50 for sale here on Craigslist for $2,800 in Barrington, Illinois.
This bike-uriosity brought to you by reader Zack B!