Following Honda's undeniably huge success of the US90, the motorcycle giant set their sights a little lower and introduced the Honda ATC70. Even though in many circles, the adults seem to ride these like trikes the most, the Honda ATC70 was actually the first children's ATV ever produced.
Debuting in 1973 Honda released the smallest three wheeler offered in their line up and continued it's production up until the 1985 production ban. Little known is the fact that the little trike was actually missing from Honda's lineup from 1975 until 1978. Speculation leads us to believe that sales may have been poor, or perhaps the public just wasn't ready for the little trike. Missing from action for 2 years though allowed Honda to refine the machine for it's return in 1978. Like the US90, now renamed the ATC90, the ATC70 received updated body styling, engine and drive train refinements along with it's bold new graphics.
Weighing in at a measly 163.1 lbs but touting a 72cc displacement engine really gives the little ATC an incredible power to weight ratio. Small enough for children to ride, but powerful enough to carry around their parents, the 70 has been long favored as the perfect family machine, and an excellent pit bike! 70 racing actually developed a large following spawning a large support from the aftermarket. Many custom full suspended frames and other performance parts still float around auctions and sales even still today.
General ATC70 Specifications
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Model Year Specific Specifications
The first, and second generation ATC70s had some distinctly different characteristics which set them apart from the other years. Common to both years was a significantly different frame. The first 70s where produced much like Honda's older motorcycle models with a large shell like stamped sheet metal frame. The bearing assembly as well as the exhaust was actualy housed within the frame and the cavity was covered with a triangular perforated guard. Unlike the later models, the rear fenders where not much more than small flare like pieces of plastic that where attached to the sides of the sheet metal frame.
The engine changed a bit over the production range. Several different transmission variants where used specific to year.
Transmission Key
1973-1974: 3 speed down
1978-1981: 3 speed down
1982-1984: 4 speed down
1985: 4 speed up
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