Manufacturer | Honda |
---|---|
Also called | Christmas Special |
Production | 1986 |
Predecessor | Honda Z50A |
Successor | Honda XR50R |
Class | Minibike |
Engine | 49 cc (3.0 cu in), OHC, air cooled, four stroke, single |
Transmission | 3-speed semi-automatic transmission |
Frame type | Backbone |
Brakes | Drum |
Tires | 3.50-8 |
Related |
The Honda Z50RD, also known as the Christmas Special or the Chrome Edition, is an all-chrome Honda Z series minibike released in 1986. A limited edition of the Honda Z50R [a], it is considered to be rare.
The Z50RD has the same specifications as the 1986 Honda Z50R: a 49 cc single-piston engine, three-speed transmission, and drum brakes. The distinguishing feature of the Z50RD is that most of its visible parts—including the fuel tank, fenders, exhaust, forks, frame, wheels, and handlebars—are chromed. [1] [2] The wheel hubs, and the parts of the motor that are not chromed, are polished and clear-coated. [3]
Z50RDs were manufactured in July or August 1986, and shipped to Honda dealers in December. [3] The combined total of Z50Rs and Z50RDs shipped by Honda in 1986 was 11,652, but the total number for Z50RDs alone is unknown. [3] Nor is it known how many dealers were allowed to purchase Z50RDs, but some collectors believe that each dealer could buy 2; there were 805 Honda dealers in the United States in the 1980s. [1]
The Z50RD received the nicknames "Christmas Special"—because it was shipped in December 1986, and had a decal on its fuel tank reading "Special"—and "Chrome Edition", after its extensive use of chrome. [3] Upon its release, it did not sell quickly, but by 2016, it had become highly sought after by collectors as a rarity. [3] [4] The 2021 National Automobile Dealers Association guide valued a Z50RD in excellent condition at $9,385. [5]