Please note: As this is a project/parts lot, the seller will not be providing a running video. Iconic Motorbikes has not performed a safety inspection.
Additional photos are available here for your perusal.
Honda’s first motorcycle was built in 1949, and upon seeing the first one ridden by one his employees, founder Soichiro Honda said, “it’s like a dream.” This first creation was powered by a 98cc two-stroke motor – it was officially called the Model D, but everyone started calling it the Dream. Two years later, Honda built their first four-stroke (the 146cc Dream E). Four years after that, Honda went even bigger with the 250cc Dream SA in 1955. It was the first bike Honda built that made more than 10 horsepower.
Alongside the larger Dream models, Honda also released a trio of smaller twins in 125, 150, and 160cc flavors. Of the three, the CA95 Benly Tourer was the most common. Colloquially known as the “Baby Dream,” it boasted a 155cc mill that made 16.5hp at 10,000 rpm.
The SOHC 360 degree parallel twin looked very much like a smaller 250/305 Dream mill. The hemi head with an 8:1 compression ratio had large valves, the key to its ability to rev and make power. It fed a four speed transmission, and the top speed in each gear was 20, 35, 50 and 63 mph, according to a 1960 Cycle Magazine test.
This example is frame: CA95E2103206, engine #: CA952103206. The seller acquired the bikes from a neighbor.
The odometer shows 3,653 miles. However, the speedometer/odometer unit has been swapped; true mileage is unknown.
Maintenance:
During his ownership, the seller has not performed any maintenance. Iconic Motorbikes’ service department has not performed a safety inspection.
Modifications:
Yamaha headlight and speedo.
Relocated high/low switch.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on tires that have aged out.
The sale includes one key.
The sale also includes a Honda CA95 Dream parts bike.
We have not been able to make out the frame. This example is engine #: CA95E400370.
The odometer shows 4,292 miles.
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), these Hondas are offered on a Bill of Sale only. Have any Benly stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
