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2014 Shannons Melbourne Late Summer Classic Auction
Lot
33

1974 Honda CT70 Mini Trail Bike

$1,500

Sold

Specifications

Engine Single-cylinder, 72cc
Gearbox 3-speed semi-automatic
Colour Candy Riviera Blue
Trim Black

Description

This lot is no longer available

Established in 1948, the Honda Motor Company quickly established itself as one of the dominant motorcycle manufacturers from Japan, building everything from commuter scooters to Grand Prix machines that soon challenged the world's best on the racetrack. Honda developed a myriad of new models to suit every need and by the late 1960s the range was incredibly diverse, including trail bikes, scramblers and a new fad - the mini bike. Based on the ST70, CT70 was first seen in 1969 and remained on the market for more than two decades, enjoying incredible success and longevity. Intended for more off road use, the CT70 lacked turn signals and had guards to protect both the engine and spark plugs. The front mudguard was mounted directly to the front fork, itself fixed unlike the detachable version found on the ST70. Although sold with a conventional four-speed gearbox, the CT70 was initially available only with a three-speed semi-automatic transmission that remained popular throughout the model's lifespan and it was powered by a 72cc SOHC air-cooled single-cylinder engine. For 1974 little was changed and the CT70 was sold in a choice of two colours, Candy Topaz Orange and Candy Riviera Blue. With interest levels in early Japanese motorcycles and mini bikes at an all time high, bikes like the CT70 have become increasingly collectible.