One of the best-selling Hondas of all time, the Trail 90 (or CT90, depending on the market) was a common entry point for youngsters to learn how to ride in the dirt thanks to the light weight and semi-automatic clutch. But it was also popular with adults as a simple runabout or even as a tool for the outdoorsman because it was many people considered a “go-anywhere” type of bike.
The 89cc engine produced a claimed 7 horsepower but the highlight for most people was the high/low transmission that in effect, provided eight gears. So you could climb steep hills with ease and putt around in the dirt with a cruising speed of 20 mph, but when you wanted to head home on faster dirt roads (or the street), you just had to turn a nut on the bottom of the transmission and cruising speed became about 50 mph.
As Cycle World put it in their 1967 review, “Honda’s devastating habit of servicing the needs of their buyers, while putting some small American accessory maker just about out of business by making his pet product a standard item, has become almost legendary. Now they have taken what was the most versatile trail (or woods) bike on the market, and built in a little goody that solves the thorniest problem confronting all trail bikes — gearing.”
Manufactured in June 1971, this example is VIN: CT90431012. The seller is the original owner, he purchased it new from his local dealership in 1973.
The odometer shows 833 miles.
“Makes me sad to just leave it sitting. This needs to be used by a kid, a racer needing a pit bike or a camper needing a cool campsite cruiser that is street legal. Just somebody to love it and ride it, and hopefully teach someone else the love of motorcycles…”
Maintenance:
In preparation for the listing, the seller had us perform a safety inspection. Our service department notes the following on their condition report:
Gas Tank Internal Condition: Bubbling on bottom of tank
Engine Oil Level: Ok
Engine Oil Quality: Ok (Age Unknown)
2T Oil Level: N/A
Coolant Level: N/A
Coolant Quality: N/A
Front Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A
Front Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Final Drive Condition: Ok
Headlight High Beam: Ok
Headlight Low Beam: Ok
Passing Light: N/A
Parking Light: N/A
Turn Signals: N/A
Tail Light: Fail
Brake Light (Front Switch): Fail
Brake Light (Rear Switch): Fail
Plate Light: Fail
Horn: Ok
Kill Switch: Key
Brake Pad % Remaining Front: 90%
Brake Pad % Remaining Rear: 90%
Forks: Ok
Shock/s: Ok
Tire Date Code Front: 26/11
Tire Date Code Rear: 26/11
Tire % Remaining Front: 90%
Tire % Remaining Rear: 90%
Tire Press. Front: 17PSI inflated to 25PSI
Tire Press. Rear: 17PSI inflated to 28PSI
Battery Standing Voltage: 6.17V
Charging Voltage @ 4k RPM: 6.39V
Running Condition: Runs Well on Bench
Test Ride Completed: None Taken
Test Ride Distance: N/A
Notes:
-Non-factory silver rectangle on front fender
-Tear in seat
-Crack in airbox
-Crack on left side plastics
-Misc damage to tail
-Tires are aged out
-No tail lights, plate light, or brake lights
Recommendations:
-Front and Rear Tire Replacement
-Taillights and Brake Light Diagnostic
Modifications:
This CT90 appears to be stock.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on MAKE/MODEL tires with date codes of 2611 and 2611.
The sale includes one key.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Panorama City, California, (please make an appointment for an inspection) this Honda is offered on a clean California title with registration current through September 2026.
Have any CT90 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
