The Honda NV50 MSD Stream, also known as the Honda Stream or Honda Lead, was a popular scooter produced by Honda from 1980 to 1985. The NV50 was part of the Honda Super Cub family, which includes some of the most successful motorbikes in history. The NV50 Stream was a versatile scooter that was designed for urban and suburban transportation, and it quickly became popular due to its reliability, affordability, and fuel efficiency.
The development of the Honda NV50 Stream started in the late 1970s, at a time when Honda was looking to expand its scooter lineup. The NV50 was designed to be a more modern and stylish version of the Honda Super Cub, which was already a huge success. The NV50 Stream was introduced to the Japanese market in 1980, and it was an immediate hit. The scooter was praised for its nimble handling, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency.
The NV50 Stream was powered by a 50cc, two-stroke engine that was capable of producing 3.5 horsepower. This may not sound like much, but the NV50 Stream was designed to be lightweight and agile, so it could easily navigate through busy city streets. The scooter had a top speed of around 50 km/h, which was perfect for urban commuting.
One of the most notable features of the NV50 Stream was its design. The scooter particularly stands out because it has three wheels; one at the front and two at the rear, a design influenced by the earlier BSA Ariel 3. It also had a sleek, modern look that was a departure from the boxy design of the Honda Super Cub. The NV50 Stream had a low, swooping profile, which made it look fast and sporty. The scooter also had a large, comfortable seat and a spacious storage compartment under the seat, which made it practical for everyday use.
In addition to its design, the NV50 Stream was also praised for its reliability. The scooter was built to Honda’s high standards, and it was known for its durability and longevity. The NV50 Stream was also easy to maintain, thanks to its simple design and reliable engine.
The Honda NV50 Stream was produced for five years, from 1980 to 1985. During that time, it became one of the most popular scooters in Japan and other parts of the world. The NV50 Stream was exported to several countries, including the United States, where it was sold under the name Honda Lead.
Today, the Honda NV50 Stream is considered a classic scooter and is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. The scooter’s sleek design and reliable performance have made it an enduring icon of the 1980s. While the NV50 Stream may no longer be in production, its legacy lives on in the many Honda Super Cubs and other scooters that continue to be produced today.
Our Stream
Our own Honda Stream has not seen the road for many years. Although it was MOT’d by the previous owner in 2019, DVLA records indicate that its tax expired in 1997. Despite various attempts to SORN it, it still shows as ‘untaxed’ – this is a quirk of the DVLA system that affects vehicles that haven’t been taxed since the digital system was introduced. We have it on good authority that they do, however, consider our Stream as SORN’d.
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