Honda Camino, history and restoration
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?+
Price depends on the chosen version (original, custom or replica), the availability of NOS parts and the amount of bodywork and chrome. As a rough guide, expect 2000 to 5000 euro for a full restoration. Contact us for a tailored quote.
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 top speed: A class is limited to 25 km/h, B class to 45 km/h. In the past the A class had a yellow plate and no helmet was required, which made demand far higher back then. Today most customers choose a B class, although the A class is on the rise again.
What is the difference between a mono and a variomatic Camino?+
The first Honda Caminos were fitted with a mono drive. This simple and robust transmission uses one fixed ratio, which makes the moped very reliable and keeps it popular with purists. Later models received a variomatic (vario). It automatically adjusts the gearing while riding, so the engine stays closer to its ideal rev range. The result is smoother acceleration, more riding comfort and often better performance. Which version is best comes down to personal preference. Some enthusiasts prefer the simplicity of a mono, others deliberately choose the comfort and ride feel of a variomatic. During a restoration we discuss together which option best fits your wishes.
Can a Honda Camino be insured?+
Yes. A B class must be legally insured as a moped. For a restored A class or oldtimer version, several insurers offer a dedicated oldtimer policy, which is often cheaper than standard moped cover.
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.