Honda CT90

To shift to the low range, the operator had to stop and clip a short additional section onto the chain, which then would allow it to go around the larger rear sprocket.

Starting in August 1967, this cumbersome arrangement was replaced by a two-range sub-transmission, which could be set far more easily by simply moving a small lever while the bike was in neutral and idling.

While the earlier Honda Trail series had been slightly modified versions of the Super Cub, 1969 and 1970 brought an evolution to the CT90 which tailored it more to the needs of the off-road rider.

The greatest change was in 1969, when Honda replaced the Super-Cub-style cantilever-toggle front end with telescoping-tube similar to those found on most motorcycles.

The new cover would run from the head tube to the bottom of the downtube, providing protection to the carburetor, and the air filter was now located in a plastic box attached to the side of the frame.

This feature made it more convenient to store the motorcycle, or to carry it in a rack, truck bed, or even the back of a station wagon.

[citation needed] In local commuter traffic, it was extremely maneuverable, although it was poorly suited for highway travel because of limited power, off-road-biased tyres, and top speed.

Trail 90s were also modified, by aftermarket vendor Suitcase Cycle, for quick breakdown and compact transport via general aviation aircraft.