19/01/2004
The Honda CT90, affectionately known as the 'Trail 90', is a beloved classic motorcycle that evokes a sense of adventure and nostalgia. Manufactured by Honda from 1966 to 1979, this rugged trail bike has captured the hearts of many with its go-anywhere attitude and simple, robust design. If you're the proud owner of a CT90, or perhaps looking to become one, you'll undoubtedly be interested in maintaining, restoring, or even upgrading this iconic machine. This article delves into where you can source crucial parts, explores the possibility of engine upgrades, and provides a comprehensive overview of the CT90's specifications, helping you keep your vintage trail bike running smoothly and reliably.
Finding Honda CT90 Parts: Keeping the Trail Blaze Alive
One of the most common questions for any classic bike owner is where to find spare parts. Fortunately, for the popular Honda CT90, there are dedicated resources available. Specialist suppliers understand the needs of vintage motorcycle enthusiasts and often stock a range of both original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts and high-quality reproduction components. These suppliers are invaluable for sourcing everything from common consumables like spark plugs and brake shoes to more specific items such as exhaust systems or engine internals.
A prime example of such a resource is DrATV.com. This website is a treasure trove for CT90 owners, offering a wide variety of parts. They cater to different needs, providing original OEM parts for those seeking absolute authenticity, as well as reproduction parts that can be more readily available and cost-effective. Beyond individual components, DrATV.com also offers specialized kits that can significantly simplify the process of engine swaps. This opens up exciting possibilities for enhancing your CT90's performance and reliability.
Engine Upgrades: More Power for Your Trail Blaster
While the original Honda CT90 engine is renowned for its dependability, some riders seek to boost its performance or adapt it for modern riding conditions. The information available suggests that it's possible to undertake engine swaps, allowing you to integrate more modern and powerful engines into your CT90 frame. Specifically, companies like DrATV.com offer kits that facilitate the use of certain Lifan Chinese engines. These engines, often with larger displacements, can provide a significant increase in power and torque, transforming the riding experience.
Beyond raw power, these engine swaps can also offer the advantage of upgrading the CT90's electrical system to a more modern 12-volt setup. This can improve the performance of headlights, tail lights, and any other electrical accessories you might wish to install, while also offering more reliable starting. The goal of such upgrades is often to achieve a blend of retro styling with modern reliability and performance, creating a motorcycle that is both a joy to look at and a pleasure to ride.
Honda CT90 Engine Specifications: A Closer Look
Understanding the heart of your Honda CT90 is crucial for both maintenance and potential upgrades. The CT90 is powered by a four-stroke, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine. The displacement of this engine is approximately 89.5cc, often referred to simply as a 90cc engine. This compact powerhouse typically produces around 7 horsepower, with peak power often achieved at approximately 8500 rpm. The maximum torque is generally around 8.2 Nm, usually delivered at around 6000 rpm.
The engine is paired with a 4-speed manual transmission and a manual clutch, providing a straightforward and engaging riding experience. For stopping power, the Honda CT90 features drum brakes on both the front and rear wheels. The tire sizes are consistent across both front and rear, typically 2.75-17-4PR. Recommended tyre pressures are 25 psi for the front and 32 psi for the rear, crucial figures for safe handling and optimal tyre life.
Key Performance Metrics:
When it comes to performance, the Honda CT90 is designed for versatile trail riding rather than outright speed. Its top speed is generally around 45 mph (approximately 73 kmph). In terms of fuel efficiency, the CT90 is known to be quite economical, offering mileage figures in the range of 38-40 kmpl. The fuel tank capacity is typically around 5.5 litres. The engine utilizes a carburetor for fuel delivery and is recommended to use Honda GN4 10W-40 engine oil.
Technical Specifications Summary:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Bike Brand | Honda |
| Model Name | CT 90 / Trail 90 |
| Production Years | 1966 - 1979 |
| Engine Type | 90cc, Four-stroke, single cylinder, SOHC, 2 valves |
| Displacement | 89.5 cc |
| Maximum Power | 7 hp @ 8500rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 8.2 Nm @ 6000 rpm |
| Top Speed | 45 mph (73 kmph) |
| Fuel Capacity | 5.5 litres |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Front Brake | Drum |
| Rear Brake | Drum |
| Front Tyre Size | 2.75-17-4PR |
| Rear Tyre Size | 2.75-17-4PR |
| Dry Weight | 90.0 kg |
| Colours | Red, Yellow, Orange |
Restoring Your Classic Honda CT90
The question of whether a classic Honda motorcycle can be restored is a resounding yes. The availability of parts, as discussed earlier, is a significant factor. Many enthusiasts undertake full restorations, breathing new life into aging machines. This process can involve anything from a basic service and repair to a complete ground-up rebuild. Websites and forums dedicated to classic Honda motorcycles are excellent places to find advice, tutorials, and support from others who have undertaken similar projects. Seeing before-and-after images of fully restored classic Honda motorcycles can be incredibly inspiring and provide a clear vision for your own restoration goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q1: Where is the best place to buy Honda CT90 engines?
- A1: Specialist online retailers like DrATV.com are excellent resources for finding CT90 engines, including options for engine swaps with modern alternatives.
- Q2: What is the engine capacity of a Honda CT90?
- A2: The Honda CT90 is equipped with an 89.5cc (often referred to as 90cc) four-stroke, single-cylinder engine.
- Q3: Can I upgrade the engine in my Honda CT90?
- A3: Yes, it is possible to upgrade the engine in a Honda CT90, often by using kits to install engines from manufacturers like Lifan, which can also facilitate a 12v electrical system conversion.
- Q4: What are the typical tyre sizes for a Honda CT90?
- A4: The Honda CT90 typically uses 2.75-17-4PR tyres on both the front and rear wheels.
- Q5: Is it difficult to find parts for a Honda CT90?
- A5: While some parts might require specialist sourcing, there are dedicated suppliers like DrATV.com that offer a wide range of both OEM and reproduction parts, making it manageable to find what you need.
In conclusion, the Honda CT90 remains a highly sought-after trail motorcycle, and with the right resources and a bit of dedication, it can be kept on the road or trail for many more years to come. Whether you're performing routine maintenance, embarking on a full restoration, or looking to inject some modern performance with an engine upgrade, the information and specialized suppliers available can help you achieve your goals. Enjoy keeping the spirit of the Trail 90 alive!
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