As you can see, this is a perfect example of a restored Honda Dax.But before we proceed on the owners story on this iconic minibike I wanted to mention a few facts about the Dax. After the monkey’s (z50) success, Honda continued with the tradition of the monkey as a portable mini bike but with a larger frame able to carry two people and a bigger engine of 72cc. In addition to this the Dax was available with on road and off road trim. Also, in some markets the Honda Dax was sold as the Honda trail. Another interesting fact it’s simply the name and the logo’s used on the motorcycle. The name Dax is a reference to dachshund’s dogs, the silhouette of which bears a resemblance to the frame shape and seat of the ST70. As you can see on the picture below of the original Honda add and even on the recreated image from the owner.
That’s all for today’s history lesson! Although this little Honda looks pristine in both images above, it was not found in this condition. Not even close. Although it wasn’t missing a lot of parts, it needed love.
And love it received, as any proper restoration the little Honda was taken apart to a bare frame and every part was examined. The owner being a perfectionist wanted everything in pristine condition, therefore he went down the hard route by sourcing everything as a new genuine replacement. I know what are you thinking ‘’this must have costed a fortune..’’ Well it did, and if you ask my opinion it was worth it. On all the motorcycles I build so far, I used both original and aftermarket replacements and nothing beats the original. The quality, the fitment, it is simply the route to choose if you are making a proper ‘’no expenses spared’’ restoration. With that being said, I will stick to my own skill set and budget that consits of ‘’making do, with’’.
As you can imagine, for a few weeks it was just like Christmas. With a lot of gifts being delivered for the Dax. In the meantime, the Dax received a new coat of candy sapphire blue. The original colour that it left Japan with. With so much attention being given to the frame an engine to match was needed so the engine was refurbished, both internally and externally.
After sorting the ‘’pesky’’ 6v wiring, the final assembly had begun, and it started looking like a Daschsund again. I mean motorcycle again. Furthermore, it is needless to say that all the bushings and rubber fittings where replaced.
And there you have it. A Honda Dax with showroom quality and feel. I do have a soft spot for this thing’s. As an owner of a heavily modified and far away from stock Dax I appreciate the fact that there are people willing to keep things the way they are meant to be. But then again, I don’t want to drive anything that doesn’t express me.
Words by:Odysseas Sofokleous
Owner:Marios Michael
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