Honda Releases the Dio Cesta - a 50cc Scooter with Superior Carrying Capacity

June 18, 2004, Japan

News Release

June 18, 2004-Honda Motor Co., Ltd. today announced the release of the Dio Cesta, an allnew 50cc scooter. Designed as a fun and convenient way to commute and get around town, the Dio Cesta features a large, fully-integrated front basket for a smart, stylish appearance and superior carrying capacity. The Dio Cesta will be manufactured by Sundiro Honda Motorcycle Co., Ltd. in China and released for sale in Japan on July 2. 

The 4-stroke, air-cooled engine, featured in the recent Dio model, offers low noise and excellent fuel economy. Fully integrated with the scooter body, the large front basket provides greatly increased carrying capacity and has a rolling shutter to deter theft and hold items securely. The headlight is positioned below the basket so as to remain clear of items at all times, while the handle cover position lamp improves rider visibility and serve as a convenient light source at night. The seat is just 690 millimeters high-ideal for female riders, and the steering column is also designed for lightness and ease of handling. 

The Dio Cesta comes in three exciting colors: Pearl Procyon Black, Pearl Quench Yellow, and Sirius Blue Metallic. The seat is a stylish two-tone Black with Brown, and the accents, such as the floor, are a delicate and appealing Brown.

Dio Cesta

Dio Cesta

●Annual sales target (Japan): 12,000 units
●Manufacturer's suggested retail price: 135,450 yen
(Price excluding consumption tax:) 129,000 yen

Note: Prices are for reference only and do not include insurance, taxes other than consumption tax, registration fees, etc.

=Key Features=

Superior storage and carrying capacity

Made of a light, sturdy plastic resistant to denting or deformation, the front basket is fully integrated with the scooter body for a smart, stylish look. A generous 24 liters in volume, the basket is ideal for shopping and other daily uses, while the rolling shutter holds items securely and deters theft. The 22-liter under-seat storage compartment accommodates a standard full-face helmet,1 and the front inner box can hold a 1.5-liter drink bottle or a similarly large item.

Lower seat and lighter steering column

The shape, thickness, and low 690 millimeter height of the seat are designed to provide maximum comfort and an optimum position for the feet during driving. Also, the special position and shape of the steering column reduce by half 2 the force required for operation, making for exceptionally light and easy handling.

Reliable front and rear-linked braking system

The Dio Cesta is equipped with Honda's Hydraulic Combined Braking System, which delivers optimal braking force to the front and rear wheels when the rider simply operates the more frequently used left (rear) brake lever. This proprietary Honda system provides superior bike stability and braking efficiency.

Theft and tamper prevention

The anti-theft system features a key cylinder that provides centralized control of the main switch and handle lock. The key cylinder is also equipped with a tamper-resistant protective shutter. Extra security is achieved through prewiring for the optional motion-activated alarm kit, manufactured by Honda Access Co., Ltd. (sold separately), or the Honda Access-made immobilizer alarm kit that sounds an alarm and cuts off the ignition system (sold separately). A U-lock holder on the rear carrier stores the lock when it is not in use.

  • 1.May not accommodate non-standard helmets.
  • 2.Honda in-house measurement.
Model Name Dio Cesta
Model Type Honda BA - AF62
L x W x H (m) 1.720 x 0.630 x 1.020
Wheelbase (m) 1.180
Ground Clearance (m) 0.110
Seat Height (m) 0.690
Vehicle Weight (Kg) 81
Dry Weight (Kg) 77
Number of Riders 1
Turning Radius (m) 1.8
Engine Type AF61E air-cooled, 4-stroke OHC single-cylinder
Displacement (cm3) 49
Bore x Stroke (mm) 37.8 x 44.0
Compression Ratio 10.1
Maximum Power
(kW[PS]/rpm)
3.0 [4.1] / 8,000
Maximum Torque
(N·m[kg·m]/rpm)
3.7 [0.38] / 6,500
Fuel Consumption(km/L) 65.0 (30km/h constant speed, low altitude)
Carburetor Type VK0DB
Starter Self-starting (also kick-start)
Ignition CDI battery ignition
Lubrication Combination pressure / splash
Fuel Tank Capacity (L) 5.0
Clutch Dry, multi-plate shoe
Gearbox Constant mesh (V-Matic)
Gear Ratio 1 gear 2.850 - 0.860
Reduction ratio Primary 3.600
Secondary 3.769
Caster Angle (degrees) / Trail (mm) 26°30´ / 71
Tire Size Front 80/100 - 10 46J
Rear 80 / 100-10 46J
Braking System Front Mechanical leading/trailing
Rear Mechanical leading/trailing
Suspension Front Telescopic
Rear Unit-swing type
Frame Underbone