Description
Additional photos are available here for your perusal.
In 1953, Honda debuted their first model under the “Benly” name – it came from the Japanese word “benri”, which means “convenient.”
The original model had a 89cc engine which produced 3.8 horsepower. However, by 1957, Honda had stuffed a 125cc motor into the Benly for an increase in output. Thanks to the extra displacement, the JC57 was good for some 9.5 horses.
It was launched in November 1956 to go on sale the following year. In addition to the constantly-evolving engine, the JC57 got a leading-link front suspension with oil dampening and new 18″ wheels.
As Canadian Biker put it, “if the later CB92 Benly is all about performance, the JC’s selling points are style, comfort and build quality.” Soichiro Honda visited NSU in 1954, and many motorcycling experts feel that heavily inspired the styling of this model.
This example is VIN: JC58812876, engine #: 4J812657. It was originally imported stateside from Japan. The seller acquired the bike through an online auction and notes that it was at one time owned by noted collector Allen Siekman.
The odometer shows 23,908 kilometers (14,855 miles).
Maintenance:
In preparation for the listing, the seller had us replace the battery and perform a safety inspection. Our service department notes the following in their condition report:
Gas Tank Internal Condition: Ok, very light rust
Tire Years – Front: Pre 2000, 148; Rear: Pre 2000, 6128
Tire % – Front: 90% CRACKING SIDEWALL; Rear: 90 CRACKING
Tire Pressure -Front: 29 PSI; Rear: 32 PSI
Brake % – Front: 50+ Drum; Rear: 50+ Drum
Front Hydraulic Fluid: NA
Rear Hydraulic Fluid: NA
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid: NA
Engine Oil – Level: Ok; Level: Ok
Coolant: NA
Low Beam: Ok
High Beam: Ok
Parking Light: NA
Passing Light: NA
Turn Signals: LH ok, RH one bulb out
Tail Light: Ok
Brake Light: Ok
Plate Light: Ok
Killswitch: NA
Horn: Ok
Fork:Ok
Shock/s: Ok
Final Drive: Ok
Battery Standing Voltage:6.12
Charging Voltage @ 4k RPM:6.2
Test Ride: OK 1/2 mile., unit operates as designed
Tires Installed
Front: 2.75R18
Rear: 2.75R18
Notes:
-Fuel tank is ok, very light rust
-Tire are old, sidewalls cracking
-Air filter is good
-Spark plugs look old and worn
-Slight oil seep from cylinder head
-Light fuel leak from petcock and carb intake manifold
REPAIRS RECOMMEDED
-Clean fuel tank (in house)
-Tires
-Spark Plugs [BP4HS]
-Check oil leak from cylinder
-Rebuild petcock
-Diag/Repair turn signals
Please note: We have sourced a bulb for the RH turn signal and it will be installed prior to shipment.
Modifications:
This Benly appears to be stock.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Dunlop tires that have aged out.
The sale includes two keys and an issue of Motorcycle Magazine.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica, California (please make an appointment for an inspection), this Honda is offered on a Washington title. Please note that as an import, this bike lacks certain compliance and emissions stickers that the state of California would require to transfer a title. Have any Benly stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
