The Today has been in the Honda lineup for many years and the current model is a continuation of the earlier designs. The idea it seems is a modern take on a retro design theme. I have to say they’ve been reasonably successful with this 2008 model as it manages to look both cute old school and fairly modern at the same time. This is more difficult than one would imagine…just ask General Motors. The Today Motorino uses a newly developed 50cc four stroke engine that claims ultra low emissions and solid fuel economy. We returned 2.5L/Litre which is about as good as it gets in a 50cc bike and our current top result. This is hardly a surprise as all modern Honda’s are both clean and economical, they may not be able to win a Formula 1 race of late but they sure can build a good scooter engine.

Our test bike still ran restriction so wasn’t the fastest 50cc bike we’ve tested, most owners remove this restriction equipment during the first service. It’s a funny one as nearly everybody does it and rightfully so, although it’s not technically legal. It also depends on which country you live in as Moped rules vary from place to place. Nevertheless the Today 50 is powerful enough in standard trim to get you around town in fine form. Like most 50cc bikes it is really just hills that slow you down. The engine and drive train are nicely matched and give the scooter reasonably brisk starts from traffic lights considering the bike is restricted. Unfortunately the brakes are drums front and rear so stopping is never going to be a strong point on the Honda Today. There is good lever feedback and modulating your stopping speed is simple, but I still question the longevity and overall stopping power of the twin drums. Given that a fair portion of 50cc bikes run a front disc it’s surprising to see them missing on a Honda.

Handling wise the Today is a joy to ride, it reminds me of the old 1988 Jog actually, very light and easy to throw into corners. Ten inch wheels mean the scooter is a tad sensitive to bumpy roads but it’s certainly not a big issue as the Today 50 runs excellent suspension for such a low priced bike. I imagine the Today will turn in a good lap time on our test track in the near future.