Honda ST70

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Launched in 1969, the ST-series minibike proved a huge worldwide success for Honda and remained in production for over 30 years.

Known as the Dax in Europe and the Trail 70 in America, it had distinctive small fat tyres on chunky four-spoke wheels and a high-level exhaust for a rugged ‘go anywhere’ look. Other features included a strong pressed steel ‘T-bone’ frame, generous bench saddle and folding handlebars that made it easy to chuck in the back of a car or pickup truck. The four-stroke engine came in three sizes, 50, 70 and 90cc, with a choice of 3-speed semi-automatic or 4-speed manual gearboxes.

Attracting a cult following over the years, with thriving owners’ clubs in many different countries, they also inspired copycats and when the Honda patents expired in 1988 they continued to be made in their millions in China although there is no comparison in quality between a cheap Chinese copy and the genuine Japanese article.

This charming and very early ST70 comes with chassis number research showing it to be a 1969 example. Recently treated to a new battery and a new carburettor after many years in storage, she is reported to have burst into life immediately and to “purr like a kitten”. In good cosmetic condition for a 47-year-old, she has never been road registered and thus has no V5 but would make an ideal runabout for charging up the pit-lane at Goodwood and could be registered if desired using the appropriate DVLA form.

AMENDMENT - Revised Estimate £1,000 - £1,500.