How to identify your Honda C50, C70 and C90

[Peter van Geelen..]

This article refers to C50, C70 and C90 models after 1977 and sold in the UK.

When working on a later model always refer to this article first; where no information is given it can be assumed that the procedure is essentially the same as that described for the earlier models. It is essential to identify exactly the model being worked on; to assist the owner in this, the major identifying points of each are given below with the relevant frame numbers, where available. Where only one frame number is given, this is the number at which that particular model's production run commenced. Note that the frame number is the only accurate means of identifying a particular model. The Z-2 models are largely identical to the original versions, the only significant difference being the fitting of a new type of carburettor with a handlebar-mounted choke operated by cable. The Z-Z models can be identified by the conical-ended silencer. They employed modified components to give a revised gelselection pattern. The C50Z-A model, usually known as the C50L, was fitted with a single seat and carrier, but in all other respects it is the same as the C50Z-Z; to comply with the new legal definition of a moped it had no provision for carrying a pillion passenger. Note: the C50L must not be confused with the later C50LA models which employ a 3-speed fully automatic transmission.

The C70-E and C90-E models, also known as the 'Super Cub' or 'Economy' models, are largely the same as the -C models but feature heavily revised cycle parts with more angular styling and are fitted with larger, rectangular flashing indicator lamps and head lamps; a fuel gauge is fitted and the handlebar controls improved.

The C90-E is fitted with modified selector components which enable neutral to be selected in one movement when the machine is stationary.

The C50-E received the same styling alterations and new features described above but was also fitted with a completely redesigned engine/gearbox unit which featured many modifications to improve fuel economy; amongst other new features, a 4-speed transmission is employed.

The C90-G, N and P models differ only in minor detail from the C90-E, and can be distinguished by their matt black-finished indicator lamps.

The C90-M models are fitted with an electric start, the motor being bolted to a modified left-hand engine cover and driving the crankshaft via a chain ar.1d a roller-type clutch mounted on the inner face of the (reversed) generator rotor. The generator coils are now mounted on the inside of the left-hand engine cover; apart from minor alterations which do not affect servicing procedures the engine is otherwise exactly the same as the standard, kickstart-only, models. The electrical system incorporates a larger-capacity battery as well as the starter button and relay. The cycle parts remain unchanged.

The earlier C90M-F models can be distinguished only by its chrome-plated flashing indicator lamps as opposed to the matt black-finished lamps fitted to the later C90M-G, M-N and M-P models; apart from this the differences are minor.

Model	Frame number
C50Z-2	C50-52655598 to C50-5449865
C50Z-Z	C50Z-6000027
C50Z-A(C50L)	C50-7000001
C50-C	C50-8170046
C50-E	N/A
C70Z-2	C70-6115364 to C70-6193904
C70Z-Z	C70Z-7000026
C70-C	C70-8022434 to C70-8039828
C70-E	N/A
C90Z-2	C90-5104865 to C90-5132699
C90Z-Z	C90-5133011
C90-C	HA02-1122937 to HA02-1129446
C90-E	HA02-1335426
C90-G	HA02-1392669 to HA02-1460128
C90-N	HA02-5200001
C90-P	HA02-5300028
C90M-F	HA02-1364806 to 1395407
C90M-G	HA02-1395328 to 1459318
C90M-N	HA02-5200001
C90M-P	HA02-5300035

Source: Haynes OWM - ISBN 1859600123

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