I once rode my 1988 Honda Helix from Los Angeles, up Highway 395 to Reno - and the over to Virginia City. For the trip back, I rode it through Yosemite, from Hwy 395 on the back side, over Monitor Pass (the highest paved road in Ca at 9,950'). It was a very comfortable ride even at sustained 70MPH cruising speeds.
I have a 93 Helix. I just love the thing. I ride it to work, to the grocery store, wherever. It is easy to maintain, cheap to own, comfortable, reliable, and a blast to ride.
I own a 86 that I just got Friday , and I love this thing I ride it 200 interest miles per day to work and it does awesome lol do have to get a new exhaust though lol
@@KevenDeezel well the guy said he had just bought it so its just a matter of getting used to it...but hell you dont need to walk around it even if you on the " wrong" side.
I've lusted after this scooter. You can actually take road trips with it. One of the best ICE scooters ever made. The engine can run flat out all day long. Honda definitely knows how to build engines to last.
My wife and I rode our 99 Helix from Northern Michigan to Jacksonville, North Carolina. We toured the Blue Ridge Parkway too. 70 mph between stops on the freeway, for hours on end, and as comfortable as my old CB900 Custom.
My Dad was a big fan of Italian Scooters. Piaggio (Vespa in US) Lambrettas were his favorite. So my brothers and I learned to love them too, because that's all we had. Dad got hooked on Scooters when stationed in England during WWII and he and his Buddy won a Cushman in a card game. He liked the Italians because he could wear his Class A's and ride to work without worry of splashing mud on his Uniforms. The Helix from Japan was on his wish list in the 90's. Even after a stroke and lying in the hospital, he kept saying he was going to buy a Helix and ride around the Country. Sadly he died before he could get well. I ride motorcycles but still wish I had another scooter to scoot around on out here in the Country. My Grandkids will love riding with me on one. Thinking PCX Honda 150 or a Burgman 200. But IF Honda would bring over that ADV 150 I'd go with that for it's off road capabilities.
This is the only scooter I have found with an "understressed transmission", (overdrive or over-geared transmission) Honda designed it to be ridden effortlessly at top speed all day. No wonder these last forever. I read of one with over 150,000 miles. When broken in (new), this scooter can do around 75 max on a level road with no wind.
Those Honda engines are just bullet proof. My first dirt bike was a Honda 70 from the 70s....I think it had lights as if it were street legal.....that engine design is probably the most copied design ever. So many clones. But with Honda you knew they did it right and you would probably have to attack the engine with a wrench and hammer to stop it from running, lol.
at 5:45 he goes through a dark tunnel and you can actually see the instrument gauges he talked about earlier. They look amazing, quintessential 1980's. Looks a lot like the gauges on a C4 corvette or a gen1 honda insight.
I wanted a gen1 Insight back in the day SPECIFICALLY because of the digital gauges. I’m hunting for one of these now also because of the overall 80s futuristic vibe.
I had a 1986 Elite 150 Deluxe new for 9 years and now just picked up 2 Elites to restore, 84 125 and 85 150 . The Helix was and still is the quintessential scooter of all scooters. Even Scotty Kilmer would frantically wave his arms telling you how indestructible these motors are when Honda USED to care about actually building them. Nice ride there keep it on the road a long time.
This was the most popular scooter in the 80s women were riding it men were riding it kids riding it it was awesome I wanted one so bad and got excited whenever I would see one pass by. Love Honda for life. I’ve gotta comment how awesome this video is. And you are exactly right….the mile is phenomenal!
I think this scooter is the best product among the large scooters released so far. The low seat height makes it easy to support the scooter firmly with your feet. The ride is very comfortable and the clutch operation is not necessary, so driving is very easy.
I had an 87 Helix several years ago. It was definitely a good scoot. I saw 83 mph on mine once but I was drafting a bunch of traffic on the freeway and it was pretty scary. I traded it for a Yamaha FZ-07 which is also an amazing bike but not nearly as easy to just get on and go or as useful as a grocery getter.
I have this same bike. It has a little over 14k miles on it. So much fun to ride. My grandpa bought it brand new in 88'. I've gotten it up to 77mph not on the freeway. Lol. Mine also has the Kenwood stereo option, which was a major upgrade for this back then. I love this bike. Great video!
Cool for you. I own 2 helix, 86 and 87. Question : i have a problem with my 86 b: It starts very wel but engine turn off after about 1 minute! Fuel pump, gaz filter seem ok, so what could be the solution for this problem? THANKS (Quebec)
@@pierredionne5773 I would try rebuilding the carburetor. The rebuild kit for them are really cheap. And doing the job is easy. The jets in the carburetor are probably clogged. I did the same with mine, and it ran great after that. You may have to adjust it also. Also check the air filter.
Forced to agree. We picked one up at a yardsale that we loved, at least as much as any motorcycle we have owned. Got it to teach the GF to ride but I used it year round....did trips to Walmart etc. It took on a heck of a lot of cargo, and was the most economical and fun to drive....and reliable....toy we ever owned.
Only thing missing is the luggage box.... doubled the luggage space and really made the Helix look even better....I rode the '86 in '86 and thoroughly enjoyed it...
I just got my first helix (1986) in pretty good shape. Gas gauge and turn signal doesn’t work and it needs a exhaust cause the old one was rusted and when I took it on a 100 mile journey @ 70 mph steady the exhaust melted in half pretty much lol. But for only having 23k miles and only costing me $850 to buy I’m super stoked with it, whole different world than the Harley’s I normally ride lol
I remember seeing the Honda Helix in Santa Rosa, California, back in 1986. One passed me doing around 80 on the freeway and I had to look into that. I was impressed.
This was the first bike I ever bought 31 years ago. Rode it for four years before I sold it for a gear bike. Great memories with it! Great review! You hit on all the important points. Except for one. It was a bit of a chick magnet . LOL! Mine hit 82 mph on occasion.
May be the most comfortable motorcycle I've ever owned/ridden. I loved mine in Illinois, sold it when I moved to Virginia. Missed it so I bought a second one, but it was under powered in the mountains. Bought a Reflex which handled better in the turns, BUT, its CVT transmission wasn't so variable acted like a two speed (there's a fix described on forums now) sold it. Wrote to Honda insisting that they engineer a 400 Helix. Even found a picture of a planned one on the internet, but it never came out. Bought a third Helix one a whim, loved it so much I sold my Ninja 250! The Ninja and all three of my Helix got 70 mpg at 70 mph! Don't get me wrong, the whole time I had multiple bikes from 50cc to 1400cc and many in between. Bought a Burgman 400 and spent a day riding it and the Helix back to back. The Helix was more comfortable, a lot lighter, and got higher gas mileage, the Burgman 400 was better in every other way. Sold third and last (?) Helix! IMO, the flatter your terrain, more urban your environment, the more economical your goal, and the more you value light weight: the better the Helix. But if you live near hilly or mountain roads, rural surroundings, the faster and sportier you ride, and if you don't mind a 400+ lbs. the better the Burgman. The scooters bigger than 400cc are unnecessarily big for me at 5'4" and 160 lbs with no overnight trips on a scooter. 400 lbs Burgman feels like quite a bit more weight to push around than the Helix. So do consider that. I would still choose a 350-450 Helix design if they made it, given my style of scooter riding.
Thanks for your post, it gave me some insight into the differences. I currently have a Burgman 400 and a 2007 Helix is for sale locally. I don't want to replace the Burgman with the Helix just thinking about adding it to the pack. Less weight would make it ideal for loading up and going to Bike Week , Superbike races or just a trip to Fl. to buzz around.
In Germany the 250 was a two stroke till 94 and 97 it got discontinued here. now u don't see them anymore in Germany. cool that u have one and deep it alive!
I went from a Yamaha V Max to a 2015 Honda Forza.It rides like a dream .Fuel injected and has storage for two helmits under the seat.I get 67mg all the time and it 300 cc.I put LED headlights and they are super bright.
No way, i just spotted one of these on the streets of south of Spain, i took several pictures it even had kind of a back rest for the driver also. They are sick! The Honda Goldwing of scooters
I had an '87 Helix as well,. Mine had 47K on the odometer and I loved the locking trunk. It was a great machine and I never had a problem with it, until the little cooling hose that warms the carburetor blew off on the freeway doing ~70 mph. By the time I could get off the freeway, the motor was severely overheated. I could have rebuilt the motor, but at 250cc with small wheels, I decided to sell it as-is and get a bigger maxi-scooter, one more comfortable at sustained freeway speeds. This time a Suzuki Burgman 650
I had a brand new 1987 I bought on Okinawa. Drove it to work and it hauled both of us all over the island. I dd feel the top speed was much too fast for the smaller sized wheels. I followed a Japanese motorcyclist on the highway next to the South China Sea and the wind blew me all over the lane. He was tracking nice and straight with his larger wheels. But, for an in-town commuter, my Helix was a real treat.
Its called the Honda Fusion over here in Japan and it has quite a cult following,same with the Honda Monkey and Super Cubs. My friend calls this a 国道原付(translated as highway scooter),basically saying its a great highway cruiser. Really comfortable,rides exceptionally well and most importantly it looks good for Instagram👍🏻
When I had my Helix in Honolulu I put a Malossi variator & roller weights and it could consistently top 80mph and take off was very quick. I think either the Helix or a Burgman 400 are the perfect bikes for O'ahu. Any larger and it is overkill given the local circumstances there.
Just saw one of these in my town in yellow! I can't believe it goes like 65! Just bought a Ruckus this summer and love it! I'm happy I didn't cheap out and buy a Chinese scooter. Hondas are the best, reliable, quick, and sound great;)
I rode my '94 Helix for more than 5 years before VERY reluctantly giving it up at age 81 because my diabetic legs were o longer "dependable" and even at its light 350 pounds i couldn't pick it up if i dropped it. Loved the scooter, cruise ll day at 55-65 (depending on terrain and wind) and mine would stick 68 on the highway.Too slow for long distances on the Interstates, but easily made cross-country rides on state and federal highways. Best single machine I ever owned. Sold it for what i paid for it.
I've owned 2 scooters from Honda both 250 Elites back in the day a 1986,1988 both were liquid cooled and the engines were bulletproof and maintenance free just change the engine oil and it ran forever no problems. It retailed for $2098 back then.
I have rode one of those before and the seat on that thing is so plush and soft! I could legit ride one of those coast to coast with zero neck or back pain and I’m 6’4 tall. It’s the gold wing of scooters.
Regarding range, the Helix has a 3.2 gallon (US) tank. At 60 mpg, that is almost 200 miles before it runs out of fuel. Well over the 140+ mile range stated in the video.
My yellow 2004 Helix regularly gets 70+ mpg. I have ridden 210 miles on a tank. I think the newer ones run leaner but won't top 70 mph - the fastest I have ever ridden mine.
If you're not hitting 75-77 indicated it means your drive belt is worn and is not climbing high enough on the pulley. The belt loses its width as it wears. Also, mind your tire pressures, a few pounds low and you get handling issues.
Wow this brings back memories back In mid 90s I was around 14 or 15 n my friend had 1 of these I cant remember model yr but it was from the 80s anyway he had put a system on it some how with a tape deck n we would Cruz all over the north end of queens taking turns driving it .. lol it was registered we had no plates nothing n we would ride around all day on it no problem we would even jump on the cross island parkway n whitestone Expressway ... we would throw a 12 pack in trunk n go under the whitestone bridge n go fishing (u cant go under the bridge to fish since 9-11) always had a great time ...n top it off it got sold from friend to friend in my neighborhood for yrs n never broke down that n another friends Yamaha jog I believe.. those 2 scooter must of scene a dozen owners each in my hood n who knows where they wound up
Fun fact about the Honda Helix: a few years ago, a guy called Ed Otto completed the Iron Butt rally on one. Also, Craig Vetter used a Helix as the base for his streamliner.
I had a 2001 Honda helix bought brand new it was a great scooter, I sold it in 2013 for a 750 Honda phantom, (I should’ve kept the helix) I love the little scooters, that thing was a great scooter, I only had 1900 miles on it after 12 years of use, I sold it for $6000 to a collector of helixes in New Jersey, after 12 years I bought it new for $4100 in 2001, I only had to give the dealership $900 more for a brand new 750 phantom 2013...!!!
I owned a 94 Helix and loved it. I now have a 2006 Yami Morphous. Now I really respect the Helix... drove a million miles on mine.... but the 2006 Yamaha Morphous with its Fuel injection.....Dual disc Braking , larger wheels and chrome body appointments eclipses the Helix. The only thing that sucks on the Morphous is the cramped, awkward gas filling location which is recessed and the cap locking mechanism which rather than turns...requires you to line up this barely visible arrow in the neck, turn the key and push down. Anyway Enjoyed the video and ride down memory lane!!
I find that the 250cc is ideal for city streets. It was plenty of power to keep up with traffic, yet isn't so big that the mileage sucks. Going on a Freeway is another story, getting up to 65 takes FOREVER. However once up to speed, it can go at Freeway speeds. I have the Honda Big Ruckus, which is similar to yours as far as engine and a few other things.
Make a long story short, Got a "06", new. Had about 4000 miles on it when the wife trashed herself on it. Luckily she was UNDER it when it went down, only a few minor scratches on the scoot. Since then, it wound up at family property up north. And love it. Have a ball with it touring around Northern WI. ! Not fond of cold starts, but other than that, it's Great !
I couldn't agree more. I owned a Helix for a few years and still regret selling it. That baby would cruise comfortably at 75mph yet was easy enough to ride one handed (thanks to the foot brake). I have owned Japanese scooters all my life but nothing compares to the Helix. Honda Over-Designed this thing and made it Too good! 😅
It's one hell of a cadillac scooter! The only one that gives my legs enough room. Others may be newer, maybe stronger and faster, but they all failed in comparison when I took a seat. The Maxam has yet to be tested ...
I had one of those a 5 years ago. Got it for free off of a neighbour. Was parked up in his garage for ten years. Spent an hour messing with it and had it running and going down the road. Without spending any money on it. Sold it 2 years later and made some good money. 😊
Okay. Just watched this and before the episode was OVER I realized you’re going to try to make it Caneda’s motorcycle from Akira!!! And I’ve NEVER thought of that before!!!! That’s a great idea!!!
that actually looks like a lot of fun :) ive had all kinds of bikes but theres a certain smugness I get when bombing through the traffic on a scooter leaving everyone else behind
Here's an idea about fueling. _Park on the left side of the pump._ That''''s the way you'd do it in a pickup or SUV if your gas cap was on the right side. If it's on the left side you'd park on the right side of the pump. Remember the 6 P's Proper planning prevents piss poor performance.
I refer to it as the TinWing, not a Gold or Silverwing, just lowly Tin. It is by no means a "super scooter", it has iffy handling with it's tiny tires, but you get used to it. It's pretty quick out of the hole, not bad in a block, and tops out at about 70 or 75 on flat road, wind and grades change that some. Mine has a "drivers" backrest and a top case, so you can haul the weekly grocery home in and on it. I really like the damn thing, it's the most comfortable bike I own, easy to ride, no muss no fuss, just twist and go. A 650 Burgman is a real super scooter, I own one of those also. It tops out at 115, and rides more like a "real" motorcycle with it's larger tires.
Hello there, I bought a mk1 Piaggio X9 back in 2000...that machine used the same engine and gear box as the Helix minus the honda brand on the belt cover. Piaggio took some cue's from the original Honda design appart from the front end it had very similar feature's. My machine could do 80mph easily if I got carried away...it was a great machine in the winter month's too. Just rememberd it was called Forsight 250?
Should I get one as my first 2 wheeler? Got my temps and money, just need a ride now. Can an 18 year old pull of a look with a Helix? I really love em for some reason after this video and some others.
That's how I fuel up my Helix and getting off it makes it easier also, maybe they can build him a scooter with the gas cap centered like a motorcycle so it doesn't make a difference?
I knew someone that had one back in the late 80’s he bought it new. It was weird riding it but comfy. They were ugly and don’t remember seeing many of them. The 250 Elite sold better. If you’re this excited about a scooter you should check out some of the new ones. I get you got it cheap but the motor will wear out and probably needs a rebuild now. Low compression produces less power. Good video, you look like you’re having fun and that’s the thing about scooters fun is what it’s all about 😁
Definitely an iconic scooter, but there are many that are much better. Try a Yamaha Tmax 500, Majesty 400, Suzuki Burgman 400 or 600, for example. The fact that it has so many miles is quite impressive, though.
Yes, those are all faster, more modern, better handling in some cases. But the perfect mix of just enough performance and all the reliability is still the Helix. Of all the bikes I owned or used, that is the only one that never failed me on the road - and I took it on some epic rides.
When you give each of them the manhandling test turning around, putting on center stand, pushing up a ramp, etc. The Helix is in it's own category. I love my Burgman 400, but it's like moving a regular motorcycle around. The number one thing that sets them apart in an emergency situation where milliseconds count is that left lever is for the clutch on every motorcycle, and a brake on those Maxi Scooters. Not Good! If you only plan to ride scooters, you're safe. If you plan to have motorcycles and scooters, not good at all. The Helix brakes are set up like a motorcycle, very good.👍
No other scooter that I have sat on matches the all day comfort of the Helix. The seat is unique in the scooter world. If more power is your top consideration, keep moving. My Burgman 400 out accelerates, out handles my Helix. But I'm going to sell the Burgman, keep the Helix. Comfort, ease/cost of maintenance, pushing it around (garage, parking lot, up a grade or ramp). Many subtle differences put the Helix on top. If I want power, I hop on my V65 Sabre! Or heck most any one of my other motorcycles. But not having a brake lever in the clutch lever location is important to me. Probably my number one reason to sell my Burgman and pass on other Maxi Scooters!
a month ago (april) i picked up my 2020 pcx150 for my daily commute. haven't ridden for years but it rides like i never left. it averages about 102mpg which is why i chose it. it would probably get a bit more for a rider
at 7:57, you say, cross over to the wrong side of the bike thing to put gas in is kind of annoying. I think you could pull up to the other side of the pump and relieve yourself from such a hassle.
I never see these for sale in my area. Ever. It's like they just don't exist. I want one, and if I had one, you can bet I would be riding it every day except snowy days.
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I am 74 and have a 1997 Helix and it will always be in my drive way. These are without doubt the most reliable and most important FUN!!!!!!!!!!!
It’s like having a motorized couch, yours is 10 years newer too! 🍻
How much did you pay for that one, JR?
Well us old people have to have fun to. Thanks WatchJRGo. You put milk in the trunk, not no milk going in that trunk.
Darrell your 74 and still riding on two wheels you're the man. I hope to god I'm still riding in 40 years.
I think 50/50% of fun riding Helix goes from the engine and the shape of handlebar which gives the rider special way of steering and manouvering.
I once rode my 1988 Honda Helix from Los Angeles, up Highway 395 to Reno - and the over to Virginia City. For the trip back, I rode it through Yosemite, from Hwy 395 on the back side, over Monitor Pass (the highest paved road in Ca at 9,950'). It was a very comfortable ride even at sustained 70MPH cruising speeds.
THAT IS INSANE
That's a pretty nice little story
Your way funny! I had one, 70 miles an hour's is top speed, not cruise speed.🤣🤣
Thats so awesome.
What year did you take that road trip?
I have a 93 Helix. I just love the thing. I ride it to work, to the grocery store, wherever. It is easy to maintain, cheap to own, comfortable, reliable, and a blast to ride.
I own a 86 that I just got Friday , and I love this thing I ride it 200 interest miles per day to work and it does awesome lol do have to get a new exhaust though lol
@@predator_boiz336 cool!how many miles in total?
Best thing about the video: he is a happy guy.
Happy alright...but wacky too
What kind of oil does it take??
Its called Happy Oil. Limited supplies. Get yours now!
DJ K your kinda lame for that comment, any normal person would have helped someone put
WOOOO-EEEE !!!
I'm sold.
I have never seen a negative helix review . There truly the best
I've heard some people park on the other side of the gas pump. Might be worth a shot.
If you know that you probably don't need a scooter.
@@KevenDeezel well the guy said he had just bought it so its just a matter of getting used to it...but hell you dont need to walk around it even if you on the " wrong" side.
I've lusted after this scooter. You can actually take road trips with it. One of the best ICE scooters ever made. The engine can run flat out all day long. Honda definitely knows how to build engines to last.
My wife and I rode our 99 Helix from Northern Michigan to Jacksonville, North Carolina. We toured the Blue Ridge Parkway too. 70 mph between stops on the freeway, for hours on end, and as comfortable as my old CB900 Custom.
I drive from Phoenix to Tucson all the time on that bike for like $3 in gas, lol
@@Kattywampus WoW. !! I may need to check one of these things for real
@@matsuwd-emethdaath4002 I swear by this bike. After I posted that comment, I drove from Phoenix, AZ to Page, AZ for like $11 hahaha
Idk if you can run all day long at full speed… engine overheating is a real potential issue and worst case scenario engine replacement is needed
My Dad was a big fan of Italian Scooters. Piaggio (Vespa in US) Lambrettas were his favorite. So my brothers and I learned to love them too, because that's all we had. Dad got hooked on Scooters when stationed in England during WWII and he and his Buddy won a Cushman in a card game. He liked the Italians because he could wear his Class A's and ride to work without worry of splashing mud on his Uniforms. The Helix from Japan was on his wish list in the 90's. Even after a stroke and lying in the hospital, he kept saying he was going to buy a Helix and ride around the Country. Sadly he died before he could get well. I ride motorcycles but still wish I had another scooter to scoot around on out here in the Country. My Grandkids will love riding with me on one. Thinking PCX Honda 150 or a Burgman 200. But IF Honda would bring over that ADV 150 I'd go with that for it's off road capabilities.
This is the only scooter I have found with an "understressed transmission", (overdrive or over-geared transmission) Honda designed it to be ridden effortlessly at top speed all day. No wonder these last forever. I read of one with over 150,000 miles. When broken in (new), this scooter can do around 75 max on a level road with no wind.
That engine will last forever just keep the oil changed.
Stephen Loflin its true man......my father have 100cc honda cub i ride it like crazy but after each oil change the engine is still smooth.....
Whatever you say, Beavis
Those Honda engines are just bullet proof. My first dirt bike was a Honda 70 from the 70s....I think it had lights as if it were street legal.....that engine design is probably the most copied design ever. So many clones. But with Honda you knew they did it right and you would probably have to attack the engine with a wrench and hammer to stop it from running, lol.
Stephen Loflin so it’s the CRX then?
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at 5:45 he goes through a dark tunnel and you can actually see the instrument gauges he talked about earlier. They look amazing, quintessential 1980's. Looks a lot like the gauges on a C4 corvette or a gen1 honda insight.
S0u11ess looks like something out of knight rider!
Damn it does look good!
I wanted a gen1 Insight back in the day SPECIFICALLY because of the digital gauges.
I’m hunting for one of these now also because of the overall 80s futuristic vibe.
Omg, my American husband bought the exactly same one!! Red 1987 Honda Helix. He absolutely loves it.
I had a 1986 Elite 150 Deluxe new for 9 years and now just picked up 2 Elites to restore, 84 125 and 85 150 . The Helix was and still is the quintessential scooter of all scooters. Even Scotty Kilmer would frantically wave his arms telling you how indestructible these motors are when Honda USED to care about actually building them. Nice ride there keep it on the road a long time.
This was the most popular scooter in the 80s women were riding it men were riding it kids riding it it was awesome I wanted one so bad and got excited whenever I would see one pass by. Love Honda for life. I’ve gotta comment how awesome this video is. And you are exactly right….the mile is phenomenal!
I think this scooter is the best product among the large scooters released so far.
The low seat height makes it easy to support the scooter firmly with your feet.
The ride is very comfortable and the clutch operation is not necessary, so driving is very easy.
I had an 87 Helix several years ago. It was definitely a good scoot. I saw 83 mph on mine once but I was drafting a bunch of traffic on the freeway and it was pretty scary. I traded it for a Yamaha FZ-07 which is also an amazing bike but not nearly as easy to just get on and go or as useful as a grocery getter.
I have this same bike. It has a little over 14k miles on it. So much fun to ride. My grandpa bought it brand new in 88'. I've gotten it up to 77mph not on the freeway. Lol. Mine also has the Kenwood stereo option, which was a major upgrade for this back then. I love this bike. Great video!
Cool for you. I own 2 helix, 86 and 87. Question : i have a problem with my 86 b: It starts very wel but engine turn off after about 1 minute! Fuel pump, gaz filter seem ok, so what could be the solution for this problem? THANKS (Quebec)
@@pierredionne5773 I would try rebuilding the carburetor. The rebuild kit for them are really cheap. And doing the job is easy. The jets in the carburetor are probably clogged. I did the same with mine, and it ran great after that. You may have to adjust it also. Also check the air filter.
Forced to agree. We picked one up at a yardsale that we loved, at least as much as any motorcycle we have owned. Got it to teach the GF to ride but I used it year round....did trips to Walmart etc. It took on a heck of a lot of cargo, and was the most economical and fun to drive....and reliable....toy we ever owned.
Only thing missing is the luggage box.... doubled the luggage space and really made the Helix look even better....I rode the '86 in '86 and thoroughly enjoyed it...
You can hear
The geniune positive attitude and respect.....in your voice.
Sub'd & liked.
Ride safe
I just got my first helix (1986) in pretty good shape. Gas gauge and turn signal doesn’t work and it needs a exhaust cause the old one was rusted and when I took it on a 100 mile journey @ 70 mph steady the exhaust melted in half pretty much lol. But for only having 23k miles and only costing me $850 to buy I’m super stoked with it, whole different world than the Harley’s I normally ride lol
That is the perfect scooter to run errands or even commute back and forth to work.
I remember seeing the Honda Helix in Santa Rosa, California, back in 1986. One passed me doing around 80 on the freeway and I had to look into that. I was impressed.
This was the first bike I ever bought 31 years ago. Rode it for four years before I sold it for a gear bike. Great memories with it! Great review! You hit on all the important points. Except for one. It was a bit of a chick magnet . LOL! Mine hit 82 mph on occasion.
May be the most comfortable motorcycle I've ever owned/ridden. I loved mine in Illinois, sold it when I moved to Virginia. Missed it so I bought a second one, but it was under powered in the mountains. Bought a Reflex which handled better in the turns, BUT, its CVT transmission wasn't so variable acted like a two speed (there's a fix described on forums now) sold it. Wrote to Honda insisting that they engineer a 400 Helix. Even found a picture of a planned one on the internet, but it never came out. Bought a third Helix one a whim, loved it so much I sold my Ninja 250! The Ninja and all three of my Helix got 70 mpg at 70 mph! Don't get me wrong, the whole time I had multiple bikes from 50cc to 1400cc and many in between. Bought a Burgman 400 and spent a day riding it and the Helix back to back. The Helix was more comfortable, a lot lighter, and got higher gas mileage, the Burgman 400 was better in every other way. Sold third and last (?) Helix! IMO, the flatter your terrain, more urban your environment, the more economical your goal, and the more you value light weight: the better the Helix. But if you live near hilly or mountain roads, rural surroundings, the faster and sportier you ride, and if you don't mind a 400+ lbs. the better the Burgman. The scooters bigger than 400cc are unnecessarily big for me at 5'4" and 160 lbs with no overnight trips on a scooter. 400 lbs Burgman feels like quite a bit more weight to push around than the Helix. So do consider that. I would still choose a 350-450 Helix design if they made it, given my style of scooter riding.
Thanks for your post, it gave me some insight into the differences. I currently have a Burgman 400 and a 2007 Helix is for sale locally. I don't want to replace the Burgman with the Helix just thinking about adding it to the pack. Less weight would make it ideal for loading up and going to Bike Week , Superbike races or just a trip to Fl. to buzz around.
In Germany the 250 was a two stroke till 94 and 97 it got discontinued here. now u don't see them anymore in Germany. cool that u have one and deep it alive!
Nice Helix. Well taken care of over the years. Plastic body panels are in great shape. I have a 2006 Big Ruckus. Another great Scooter.
I went from a Yamaha V Max to a 2015 Honda Forza.It rides like a dream .Fuel injected and has storage for two helmits under the seat.I get 67mg all the time and it 300 cc.I put LED headlights and they are super bright.
No way, i just spotted one of these on the streets of south of Spain, i took several pictures it even had kind of a back rest for the driver also. They are sick! The Honda Goldwing of scooters
Without REVERSE!
I had an '87 Helix as well,. Mine had 47K on the odometer and I loved the locking trunk. It was a great machine and I never had a problem with it, until the little cooling hose that warms the carburetor blew off on the freeway doing ~70 mph. By the time I could get off the freeway, the motor was severely overheated. I could have rebuilt the motor, but at 250cc with small wheels, I decided to sell it as-is and get a bigger maxi-scooter, one more comfortable at sustained freeway speeds. This time a Suzuki Burgman 650
I had a brand new 1987 I bought on Okinawa. Drove it to work and it hauled both of us all over the island. I dd feel the top speed was much too fast for the smaller sized wheels. I followed a Japanese motorcyclist on the highway next to the South China Sea and the wind blew me all over the lane. He was tracking nice and straight with his larger wheels. But, for an in-town commuter, my Helix was a real treat.
@@feversol Yes, 70mph on wheelbarrow tires takes your undivided attention!
Its called the Honda Fusion over here in Japan and it has quite a cult following,same with the Honda Monkey and Super Cubs. My friend calls this a 国道原付(translated as highway scooter),basically saying its a great highway cruiser. Really comfortable,rides exceptionally well and most importantly it looks good for Instagram👍🏻
My dad has a 85 elite 250, I’m working on getting it running this summer!
When I had my Helix in Honolulu I put a Malossi variator & roller weights and it could consistently top 80mph and take off was very quick. I think either the Helix or a Burgman 400 are the perfect bikes for O'ahu. Any larger and it is overkill given the local circumstances there.
where did you order em and do you remember the weight size
Just saw one of these in my town in yellow! I can't believe it goes like 65! Just bought a Ruckus this summer and love it! I'm happy I didn't cheap out and buy a Chinese scooter. Hondas are the best, reliable, quick, and sound great;)
Still remember owning one of these.I used to call it the aircraft carrier as it was so long.Very 80s knight rider ish clock panel tho.
I rode my '94 Helix for more than 5 years before VERY reluctantly giving it up at age 81 because my diabetic legs were o longer "dependable" and even at its light 350 pounds i couldn't pick it up if i dropped it. Loved the scooter, cruise ll day at 55-65 (depending on terrain and wind) and mine would stick 68 on the highway.Too slow for long distances on the Interstates, but easily made cross-country rides on state and federal highways. Best single machine I ever owned. Sold it for what i paid for it.
I've owned 2 scooters from Honda both 250 Elites back in the day a 1986,1988 both were liquid cooled and the engines were bulletproof and maintenance free just change the engine oil and it ran forever no problems. It retailed for $2098 back then.
I have rode one of those before and the seat on that thing is so plush and soft! I could legit ride one of those coast to coast with zero neck or back pain and I’m 6’4 tall. It’s the gold wing of scooters.
Regarding range, the Helix has a 3.2 gallon (US) tank. At 60 mpg, that is almost 200 miles before it runs out of fuel. Well over the 140+ mile range stated in the video.
My yellow 2004 Helix regularly gets 70+ mpg. I have ridden 210 miles on a tank. I think the newer ones run leaner but won't top 70 mph - the fastest I have ever ridden mine.
old real hondas are the best ever made cars/bikes/moped
/mowers
The HM 50 is not bad too
If you're not hitting 75-77 indicated it means your drive belt is worn and is not climbing high enough on the pulley. The belt loses its width as it wears. Also, mind your tire pressures, a few pounds low and you get handling issues.
Gonna keep this in mind cause I just got my first helix and wanna learn everything about it
Wow this brings back memories back In mid 90s I was around 14 or 15 n my friend had 1 of these I cant remember model yr but it was from the 80s anyway he had put a system on it some how with a tape deck n we would Cruz all over the north end of queens taking turns driving it .. lol it was registered we had no plates nothing n we would ride around all day on it no problem we would even jump on the cross island parkway n whitestone Expressway ... we would throw a 12 pack in trunk n go under the whitestone bridge n go fishing (u cant go under the bridge to fish since 9-11) always had a great time ...n top it off it got sold from friend to friend in my neighborhood for yrs n never broke down that n another friends Yamaha jog I believe.. those 2 scooter must of scene a dozen owners each in my hood n who knows where they wound up
Fun fact about the Honda Helix: a few years ago, a guy called Ed Otto completed the Iron Butt rally on one. Also, Craig Vetter used a Helix as the base for his streamliner.
Love how this guy presents everything! I'm cracking up!
I remember the first time I saw one of these many many years ago...I was amazed.
I love my 1999 helix!! Only 11,000 miles on it. Ride it every chance I get. It's mucho fun...
Seen a few crazily modded ones in Japan, they have plenty of potential and can look quite amazing
Why am I not surprised? Japan has all the cool modded things 😎
I had a 2001 Honda helix bought brand new it was a great scooter, I sold it in 2013 for a 750 Honda phantom, (I should’ve kept the helix) I love the little scooters, that thing was a great scooter, I only had 1900 miles on it after 12 years of use, I sold it for $6000 to a collector of helixes in New Jersey, after 12 years I bought it new for $4100 in 2001, I only had to give the dealership $900 more for a brand new 750 phantom 2013...!!!
2 years later and he’s finally doing something with it lol.
I owned a 94 Helix and loved it. I now have a 2006 Yami Morphous. Now I really respect the Helix... drove a million miles on mine.... but the 2006 Yamaha Morphous with its Fuel injection.....Dual disc Braking , larger wheels and chrome body appointments eclipses the Helix. The only thing that sucks on the Morphous is the cramped, awkward gas filling location which is recessed and the cap locking mechanism which rather than turns...requires you to line up this barely visible arrow in the neck, turn the key and push down.
Anyway Enjoyed the video and ride down memory lane!!
I find that the 250cc is ideal for city streets. It was plenty of power to keep up with traffic, yet isn't so big that the mileage sucks. Going on a Freeway is another story, getting up to 65 takes FOREVER. However once up to speed, it can go at Freeway speeds. I have the Honda Big Ruckus, which is similar to yours as far as engine and a few other things.
This video has me checking marketplace for a Helix.
Would be a Great Pizza Delivery Bike! Looks Like a Snow Mobile with Wheels!! 👍😉
Perfect description! 😄
I have an 03 Reflex and love it. The engine sounds exactly like your Helix.
whats the different between the Helix, reflex, and elite? besides the slightly different body design.
U should try the Yamaha tmax they are very fun as well
Edit: they also have lots or racing parts and turbo kits for them its a 530cc
thats bullshit. I prefer this Helix isntead of those noisegenerators.
Hahahah il Tmax è una vasca da bagno, guidate delle moto serie
Dude the Tmax is just a S C O O T E R, do not race on it, just ride real motorbikes.
@@simbad4322 at least dont use racing parts for a vascone di merda like the TMax, im very sad that Malossi does racing parts for this shit man
@@hyperlock Malossi wants money of every owner of every bike...
Make a long story short, Got a "06", new. Had about 4000 miles on it when the wife trashed herself on it. Luckily she was UNDER it when it went down, only a few minor scratches on the scoot. Since then, it wound up at family property up north. And love it. Have a ball with it touring around Northern WI. ! Not fond of cold starts, but other than that, it's Great !
😂 😂
I couldn't agree more. I owned a Helix for a few years and still regret selling it. That baby would cruise comfortably at 75mph yet was easy enough to ride one handed (thanks to the foot brake). I have owned Japanese scooters all my life but nothing compares to the Helix. Honda Over-Designed this thing and made it Too good! 😅
I remember these, back in the 80's we looked at these as the Spaceship scooters. A lot more fun than the old Honda Spree 😂
It's a Doug. It's a Hoovie. No, it's a WatchJRGo
Shoot, maybe one day, I'll keep putting it work! 🙏
It's one hell of a cadillac scooter! The only one that gives my legs enough room. Others may be newer, maybe stronger and faster, but they all failed in comparison when I took a seat. The Maxam has yet to be tested ...
Have a 99 helix will do 74 on flats no wind, but I keep it at 64. 0 to 30 is quick and smooth.
seeing those handle bar makes me think of the bike form judge Dredd hahahahaha
chris singleton goddamn hahahaa
@@exbunny2 Ha , Ha "I AM THE LAW" Ha. Ha !!!!
YOU WILL BE JUDGED !!
😂😂
I had one of those a 5 years ago. Got it for free off of a neighbour. Was parked up in his garage for ten years. Spent an hour messing with it and had it running and going down the road. Without spending any money on it. Sold it 2 years later and made some good money. 😊
I have a 93 w/ the Kenwood stereo. Has 65k on it. Has some carb issues that keep it under 60 MPH, but sometimes it will jump up to 80.
Okay. Just watched this and before the episode was OVER I realized you’re going to try to make it Caneda’s motorcycle from Akira!!! And I’ve NEVER thought of that before!!!! That’s a great idea!!!
that actually looks like a lot of fun :) ive had all kinds of bikes but theres a certain smugness I get when bombing through the traffic on a scooter leaving everyone else behind
My first bike was a new 2001 Helix... loved it!
Was able to get it up to 87
1 more MPH, and you could add a flux capacitor to it, lol
@@redbaron474 I think that was governed on purpose. Lol!
I've owned 2 of these,best damn scooter in the world
What a beauty! New scooters cant even compare.
Thanks to hoovies, For suggesting your channel man, Super Cool Content.... Love Hondas
Glad to have you here! I own 5 Honda bikes right now, you can count on them to get you home 💪
They are Built like tank, Mine oldest one is over 80000 kilometers old.
Nice! Lived a full life. 🏍💨
love the Helix always have. but the enthusiasm of this man 🍻
Its best becuse its ugly and no one will steal it
Hauska
hihihi hassu
Vittu heheee
I would steal it
Isn't it the same bike Kirsten Dunst rides in small soldiers? Such a beautiful bike and yet it would get stolen unfortunately.
I own a 1987 Helix. Absolutely great vehicle. Fun way to get around. The trunk holds a large pizza.
I drove all around Los Angeles in the '90's on a Honda Helix.
I'll subscribe just because I like how happy this guy is lol
Very 80s! Design look like vintage robot... but very functional..
Or a vacuum
@@LMvdB02 ..😁
It's the DeLorean of scooters !
It reminds me of total recall with arnold
Here's an idea about fueling. _Park on the left side of the pump._ That''''s the way you'd do it in a pickup or SUV if your gas cap was on the right side. If it's on the left side you'd park on the right side of the pump. Remember the 6 P's Proper planning prevents piss poor performance.
Im from Austria and i have an oldtimer called Puch Maxi that have droven about 520000 Kilometer
I refer to it as the TinWing, not a Gold or Silverwing, just lowly Tin. It is by no means a "super scooter", it has iffy handling with it's tiny tires, but you get used to it. It's pretty quick out of the hole, not bad in a block, and tops out at about 70 or 75 on flat road, wind and grades change that some. Mine has a "drivers" backrest and a top case, so you can haul the weekly grocery home in and on it. I really like the damn thing, it's the most comfortable bike I own, easy to ride, no muss no fuss, just twist and go. A 650 Burgman is a real super scooter, I own one of those also. It tops out at 115, and rides more like a "real" motorcycle with it's larger tires.
Honda always supply bulletproof like reliability
@MrWithnailJRjunior I think
Hello there,
I bought a mk1 Piaggio X9 back in 2000...that machine used the same engine and gear box as the Helix minus the honda brand on the belt cover.
Piaggio took some cue's from the original Honda design appart from the front end it had very similar feature's.
My machine could do 80mph easily if I got carried away...it was a great machine in the winter month's too.
Just rememberd it was called Forsight 250?
8:02 really crossing over to put gas in the bike is annoying. Hum pulling in the wrong way can't be quite annoying also.
Fantastic Scooter... LOve its futuristic shape.. NICE
I have owned these for many years, I call it my "couch" on wheels, and 68 mpg !
Should I get one as my first 2 wheeler? Got my temps and money, just need a ride now. Can an 18 year old pull of a look with a Helix? I really love em for some reason after this video and some others.
I mean that scooter is really awesome, but my Honda NC700 (48hp) does something like 65 mpg too at normal riding :P
Nice... a “Couch Rocket”..
I have a Honda CH250 which I believe has the same engine as this. I love the bike
That bike is so economical! My bike has a 7L tank and that does me 14miles If I'm lucky😂😂😂 bearing g in mind it's a 70cc track built zip sp
Rather have s
Sp than this boat
One for sale by me for 2500 with 1k original miles. So tempting
Nobody:
JR: Oooh nice Cayman
Porsche enthusiasts: what
That’s it I’m 19 and been waiting something to get started riding and I think this is in my budget 😂
You should 100% own a Honda Helix
I definitely need to get one of these!
😂 Yes you do, I always have a stupid grin on my face riding this weird scooted around.
Why did this design of bike never catch on? Incredibly practical.
Well, Suzuki has the Burgmann series which is quite popular I'd say... I've seen them a lot on the Motorway.
That seat stand! 🔥
NEVER BEFORE SEEN (Unless it has been seen, then I'm just wrong) 😂
Great video and the scooter look very nice plus the price is right
Lol. Park facing the opposite direction at the pump, genius.
Really..... Oh and btw....standing on the seat at X mph on the road is a 'Brainiac' thing too. Duhhhhh.
Possibly one or two screws lose.......and not in the bike.
That's how I fuel up my Helix and getting off it makes it easier also, maybe they can build him a scooter with the gas cap centered like a motorcycle so it doesn't make a difference?
@@dr.OgataSerizawa LOL!
really good review . i wanted one but the price was never right . found a Majesty at a decent price , i went with the Yamaha 400cc. really quik
Man this bike deserves a restoration.....
I knew someone that had one back in the late 80’s he bought it new. It was weird riding it but comfy. They were ugly and don’t remember seeing many of them. The 250 Elite sold better. If you’re this excited about a scooter you should check out some of the new ones. I get you got it cheap but the motor will wear out and probably needs a rebuild now. Low compression produces less power. Good video, you look like you’re having fun and that’s the thing about scooters fun is what it’s all about 😁
Definitely an iconic scooter, but there are many that are much better. Try a Yamaha Tmax 500, Majesty 400, Suzuki Burgman 400 or 600, for example. The fact that it has so many miles is quite impressive, though.
Yes, those are all faster, more modern, better handling in some cases. But the perfect mix of just enough performance and all the reliability is still the Helix. Of all the bikes I owned or used, that is the only one that never failed me on the road - and I took it on some epic rides.
When you give each of them the manhandling test turning around, putting on center stand, pushing up a ramp, etc. The Helix is in it's own category. I love my Burgman 400, but it's like moving a regular motorcycle around. The number one thing that sets them apart in an emergency situation where milliseconds count is that left lever is for the clutch on every motorcycle, and a brake on those Maxi Scooters. Not Good! If you only plan to ride scooters, you're safe. If you plan to have motorcycles and scooters, not good at all. The Helix brakes are set up like a motorcycle, very good.👍
No other scooter that I have sat on matches the all day comfort of the Helix. The seat is unique in the scooter world. If more power is your top consideration, keep moving. My Burgman 400 out accelerates, out handles my Helix. But I'm going to sell the Burgman, keep the Helix. Comfort, ease/cost of maintenance, pushing it around (garage, parking lot, up a grade or ramp). Many subtle differences put the Helix on top. If I want power, I hop on my V65 Sabre!
Or heck most any one of my other motorcycles. But not having a brake lever in the clutch lever location is important to me. Probably my number one reason to sell my Burgman and pass on other Maxi Scooters!
a month ago (april) i picked up my 2020 pcx150 for my daily commute. haven't ridden for years but it rides like i never left. it averages about 102mpg which is why i chose it. it would probably get a bit more for a rider
at 7:57, you say, cross over to the wrong side of the bike thing to put gas in is kind of annoying. I think you could pull up to the other side of the pump and relieve yourself from such a hassle.
You sure it wasn't @ 7:58 you dork ......... :o)
I never see these for sale in my area. Ever. It's like they just don't exist. I want one, and if I had one, you can bet I would be riding it every day except snowy days.