What MPG Does a 1978 Honda Express Get?

The 1978 Honda Express (NC50) typically returns around 100–110 miles per U.S. gallon in everyday riding, with well-tuned examples and gentle riding occasionally reaching about 120–130 mpg. These figures reflect both period claims and modern owner reports, though real-world results depend on maintenance, fuel, and riding conditions.

The numbers in context

Honda marketed the late-1970s Express as an ultra-economical 49cc two-stroke moped, and that reputation has largely held up. A realistic expectation for a stock, healthy 1978 NC50 is roughly 100–110 mpg (U.S.). Period literature and some careful riders have reported “up to” roughly 130 mpg under ideal, steady, low-speed conditions. In metric terms, that range equates to about 2.35–1.81 L/100 km. With a fuel tank of roughly 2.5 liters (about 0.66 U.S. gallons), that translates to an approximate per-tank range of 65–85 miles, assuming you don’t routinely ride at full throttle or on steep terrain.

Why results vary

Several factors can significantly shift the Honda Express’s fuel economy up or down. Understanding these variables helps explain why one owner might see 95 mpg while another reports 120 mpg.

• Riding speed and throttle: Sustained full-throttle riding or frequent stop-and-go lowers mpg; steady 20–25 mph cruising is most efficient.
• Carburetion and tune: Correct jetting, clean air filter, and a properly adjusted carburetor are critical on a small two-stroke.
• Fuel type: Modern ethanol blends can reduce energy content slightly versus pure gasoline, trimming mpg.
• Tire pressure and rolling resistance: Underinflated tires or dragging brakes sap efficiency.
• Engine health: Good compression, fresh spark plug, and leak-free crank seals matter on an older two-stroke.
• Load and terrain: Hills, headwinds, and added cargo or a heavier rider will reduce economy.

Addressing these areas typically brings the Express into its expected efficiency range and can help owners approach the higher end of reported mpg figures.

Period claims vs. real-world reports

Contemporary Honda materials promoted exceptionally high mileage—commonly cited around or above 100 mpg, and sometimes up to about 130 mpg under ideal conditions. Decades on, rider logs and community data generally place a well-running 1978 NC50 near 100–110 mpg in mixed riding. The spread reflects both the optimistic nature of “up to” marketing claims and the realities of aging components, ethanol-blend fuels, and modern traffic patterns that often demand more throttle.

Practical takeaways for owners and buyers

For planning purposes, assume about 100–110 mpg and a tank range near 70 miles. If you’re restoring or maintaining one, prioritize engine health, correct carb settings, and tire pressure. Those steps not only improve reliability but also help the bike deliver the economy it was known for when new.

Summary

A 1978 Honda Express typically achieves around 100–110 mpg in real-world use, with best-case scenarios nearing 120–130 mpg. Expect roughly 65–85 miles per tank, and recognize that careful tuning, steady speeds, and proper maintenance are key to reaching the upper end of that range.

How many miles per gallon does a 1974 Honda cb550 get?

The engine output was 50 bhp (37 kW) at 8,000 rpm and 26.04 lbf⋅ft (35.31 N⋅m) torque at 7,500 rpm, with a curb weight of 455 lb (206 kg) and average fuel consumption of 5.9 L/100 km; 48 mpg‑imp (40 mpg‑US).

How many miles per gallon does a 1978 Honda Civic get?

The car had a 50hp engine and was rated at 40MPG on the highway. The features Civic offered led it to out-perform the Chevy Vega and the Ford Pinto, which were built at a lower quality to keep their costs down.

How fast does a Honda Express go?

The Honda Express, specifically the NC50 and NU50 models, typically has a top speed of around 30 mph. Some versions, like the NU50M, might have slightly higher speeds due to variations in the belt drive system and other features. There were also restricted versions, like the NU50I, limited to 25 mph for certain markets. 
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

• Honda Express (NC50): The original Express models were designed for urban commuting and had a top speed advertised at 25 mph. 
• Honda Urban Express (NU50): The Urban Express models, which replaced the Express II, featured a similar belt-driven engine but with a slightly longer belt side of the cases, resulting in a small increase in top speed. 
• Honda Urban Express (NU50M): The NU50M, equipped with electric start, had similar performance characteristics to the standard NU50 but with added features like blinkers, a 12V battery, and CDI ignition. 
• Restricted Versions: Some models, like the NU50I, were specifically restricted to a maximum speed of 25 mph to comply with regulations in certain states. 

How many miles per gallon does a 1981 Honda Express get?

To make the “noped” even more approachable, Honda updated the model in 1981 with an automatic choke, CDI, and a conventional kick start. Though the little Honda topped out at just 30mph, it was good for an impressive 85-100mpg.