Honda Camino

The Honda Camino is one of the most loved Belgian and Dutch classics. A light moped with automatic clutch, easy to maintain and with that distinctive engine note that touches entire generations. We specialise in full restorations of this model, with respect for the original.

History

Honda launched the Camino (PA50) in 1976 and kept building it until the early 1990s. The mopeds were assembled in Aalst, Belgium for Honda Japan, with parts sourced from suppliers across several countries. For almost two decades the Camino was a fixture among Belgian and Dutch youngsters: affordable, reliable and with parts that could be found anywhere. The concept was simple: a 49 cc two-stroke engine, automatic clutch and, depending on the model, a mono drive or a continuously variable variomatic transmission. Both systems still have their own enthusiastic following today. For many people the Camino was their first motorised experience, which explains why demand for restored examples remains strong today. The difference between A class and B class today comes down mainly to top speed. Both classes must be registered and require a helmet. An A class is limited to 25 km/h, a B class to 45 km/h. In the past the A class carried a yellow plate and did not require a helmet, which made demand far greater than it is today. Most customers today choose a B class, although the A class has been making a comeback in recent years. During restoration we choose the class together with you.

Models and versions

Camino Standard

The base 1976 version (PA50 L/LC/VL/VLC) with classic lines, mushroom seat and spoked wheels. The most recognisable shape and the foundation for many restoration projects.

Camino Young S

Sportier 1978 version aimed at young riders, with buddy seat, flat block light in red, yellow or blue and standard variomatic. Popular as a first moped.

Camino Sport

The 1981 PA50DX VLS, sold in the UK as the Camino Sports and in Germany as the Disco Camino. Recognisable by its American star wheels with copper-coloured spokes and standard variomatic.

Camino Special Deluxe

Upscale 1981 version with yellow Grimeca cast wheels, round block light, turn signals and variomatic. Available in blue, black or white.

Camino Funny

More compact 1986 variant with white mushroom seat, white Grimeca cast wheels and playful base colours (purple, mint green, red, black). A favourite for riders wanting a standout look.

Camino Custom (CU50)

Belgian 1986 version with coloured buddy seat, white Grimeca cast wheels and chopper-style handlebars. Variomatic and turn signals only.

Camino Deluxe

The 1982 PA50DX VLM with chrome suspension, mushroom seat and spoked wheels. Available in blue, silver or beige, standard with variomatic and turn signals.

Camino Chopper

The 1989 PA50 Custom Chopper with high chopper handlebars, chromed tank and mudguards, American star wheels and standard variomatic. A striking collector version.

Technical data

Years built
1976 to early 1990s
Engine
Single cylinder two-stroke, air-cooled
Displacement
49 cc
Drive
Variomatic (later versions)
A class
up to 25 km/h
B class
up to 45 km/h
Weight
around 55 kg
Fuel
2 to 4 percent oil mix

Our approach

Every restoration at Piston Classics starts with a thorough inspection of the moped. We first assess the overall condition and discuss your wishes together: full restoration, technical revision or preserving the original patina as much as possible.

Then the Camino is completely stripped down. The frame and parts are stripped of paint and repainted in a colour of your choice, or we deliberately keep the original appearance when that suits the moped better. The tank is cleaned and if necessary de-rusted.

The engine block is also completely dismantled. The crankcases are cleaned and blasted, after which the block is rebuilt with new bearings, oil seals, gaskets and where necessary a new cylinder, piston or other wear parts. We check compression, ignition, carburettor, clutch and transmission so everything works as it should again.

Furthermore, brakes, cables, bearings, tyres, lighting and the full electrical installation are inspected. We replace worn cables as standard and where possible we work according to the original Honda wiring diagrams. This avoids later electrical problems.

For parts we always prefer original Honda parts, NOS (New Old Stock) or quality used pieces. What is no longer available, we replace with reliable reproduction parts.

Before delivery, every Camino receives a thorough tuning, a compression test and a long test ride. Only when the moped starts reliably, rides well, brakes correctly and all electrics work properly, do we consider the restoration finished. As it should be.

Our restored Caminos

No Camino currently in stock. See past builds below or get in touch for a custom restoration.

Frequently asked questions

What does a restored Honda Camino cost?+

The cost of a full revision or restoration depends on several factors. You can have your own Honda Camino revised, but we can also supply a suitable base or a fully finished Camino. The final price is determined by the chosen version, type of paintwork, condition of the moped, parts used (original, reproduction or NOS), type of wheels (spoke or cast) and any custom modifications. As a guideline, expect € 2,000 to € 5,000 for a full revision. A budget around € 2,000 is usually achievable when you supply a good base yourself and choose an original restoration without exceptional or multi-colour paintwork. Exclusive versions, rare parts or extensive custom work can increase the price. Every Honda Camino is different. That is why we are happy to provide a no-obligation tailor-made quote, fully adapted to your wishes and budget.

What is the difference between Camino A class and B class?+

In Belgium both classes must be registered, carry a number plate and require a helmet. The only difference is the permitted speed: class A is limited to 25 km/h, class B to 45 km/h. In the past class A had a yellow plate and no helmet was required, which made demand much higher at the time. Today most customers choose a class B, although class A is making a comeback.

What is the difference between a mono and a variomatic Camino?+

The Honda Camino was supplied with both a mono and a variomatic drive, each available in class A and class B. Which version suits you best depends on your preference and intended use. A mono drive is simple, robust and popular with purists. The transmission ratio is fixed, so the tuning of engine and drivetrain must be closely matched. A mono in class A and class B also uses a different transmission ratio. As a result, parts such as cylinders are not always interchangeable without affecting performance. A variomatic automatically adjusts the transmission ratio while riding. This keeps the engine closer to its ideal rev range, giving smooth acceleration and comfortable riding behaviour. With a variomatic too, it is important that the cylinder, variator and other drivetrain components are properly matched for an optimal result. During a restoration or revision we always look at which combination best suits your wishes. This way we ensure that the drivetrain, engine and tuning are perfectly matched for a reliable and enjoyable Honda Camino.

Can a Honda Camino be insured?+

Yes, both class A and class B can be insured provided you have the correct documents. At Piston Classics all documents are always in order and included in the price, so you do not have to worry about this yourself. If you buy a moped elsewhere without papers, you will quickly face an extra € 190 for the application.

Which parts are still available?+

Good news: for a Honda Camino, almost all parts are still available today as reproductions. Over the years we have tested many brands and suppliers, so we know well which parts are of good quality and which ones you should avoid. In addition, we have an extensive network in Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany and France to track down original second-hand parts and NOS parts (New Old Stock). Especially for specific versions, rare colours or certain original details, this can sometimes make the difference between a nice restoration and an exceptional restoration. However, some parts have become particularly rare. In that case, it may take a while before we find the right piece. This can extend the restoration time, but patience is a virtue. The moment when a rare original part finally finds its place back on the moped makes the end result all the more beautiful. Because we need these parts for our own restoration and revision projects, we do not sell parts separately. Our focus is entirely on building, repairing and restoring Honda Caminos and other classic mopeds and motorcycles.

How long does a full restoration take?+

Plan for 1 to 3 months from project start, depending on parts availability and chosen finish. You receive photos and updates throughout the build.

How much is a Honda Camino worth today?+

The value of a Honda Camino depends strongly on the version, condition and originality. A sound, riding example in original condition starts today at around € 1,500 to € 2,500. A fully revised or restored Camino is usually between € 3,000 and € 5,500, depending on the chosen version, paintwork and any rare parts. Special versions such as an original Camino Funny in a striking colour, a Custom or a Deluxe with indicators and cast wheels are often worth more. We will gladly give you an honest estimate based on photos and details.

How do I recognise an original Honda Camino?+

You recognise an original Honda Camino by a number of fixed characteristics: the type number PA50 on the frame, the Honda logos on tank and side covers, the correct handlebar version, and the sticker set per model year and version. Also important is the combination of wheels (spoke or cast depending on model), the type of saddle (mushroom or buddy seat) and the correct lighting. If you are unsure whether it is an original version or a later conversion, we will be happy to help you via photos or an appointment in the workshop.

What is the difference between a Honda Camino Funny, Custom and Carnaval?+

In practice, the Honda Camino Funny and Carnaval are often considered the same version. They are distinguished by the white mushroom saddle, the characteristic Grimeca cast wheels in an off-white shade and the striking factory colours red, black, mint green and purple. The Honda Camino Custom (CU50) is a Belgian version recognisable by the buddy seat, the chopper-style handlebar position, the indicators, the variomatic and the Grimeca cast wheels in a whiter shade with a subtle blue sheen. The best-known factory colours are red, yellow and black. An important point for collectors is that Funny, Carnaval and Custom-look versions also exist today. Technically and visually they are often almost indistinguishable from an original, but they are built on a standard Camino frame. The difference lies mainly in the frame number (chassis number), which betrays the original factory version. For those who just want to ride or enjoy a beautifully restored Camino, this usually makes little difference. A quality built look version can be just as beautiful and reliable as an original example. For collectors and purists, however, the originality of the frame is very important. An original Funny, Carnaval or Custom with the correct chassis number is rarer, historically correct and therefore generally has a higher collector value. At Piston Classics we therefore check not only the visible characteristics, but also the chassis number and the original version. This way you know exactly whether you have an original factory example or a professionally built look version in front of you.