The Honda Motocompacto is a modern take on a cult classic. It’s the reimagined version of the Motocompo scooter from the early 80s. That was called a trunk bike and it was designed to fit in the rear of the subcompact Honda City. Today, the Motocompacto is here and it weighs half as much, as a slimmer profile, and is just as appealing.

First, let’s take a quick look back at the Motocompo though… and let’s do so via one of the original ads for the City, which featured Ska band Madness:

Honda needs to do an updated version for the Motocompacto and toss one of these in the back of that new Prelude Concept.

On to the specs of the newer rig, though, as it’s a pretty slick little e-scooter of a thing. The seats, foot pegs, kickstand, handlebars, and rear wheel all fold up neatly into a Wall-E-esque machine. It’s very easy to get it all set up. All of the parts lock into position with a very satisfying and nicely machined click. And you know it’s all set up correctly because the Motocompacto otherwise won’t turn on until it senses that everything is where it needs to be.

Honda says the Motocompacto can handle riders up to 265 lbs in weight. I weigh 220. The mighty mite had no issue getting up to speed quickly but I was a tick off the top speed, which is listed at 15 mph. I cruised effortlessly at 14 mph. Going uphill, the Motocompacto maintained a speed between 8 and 9 mph. And then coming downhill, I managed to see 17 mph on the digital display.

The Motocompacto has two ride modes. In mode 1, you’re required to kick off with your foot before the throttle will engage. You’re also limited to 10 mph. Mode 2 gives you throttle from a stop and unlocks the 15 mph top speed. There’s a headlight, taillight, and brake light. The charging cable can be stored in the center section of the scooter.

Sitting on it, you’re very upright but it actually feels good for your posture. The Motocompact leans over just fine in corners and runs more stable than I would’ve assumed.

Honda is selling the Motocompacto via Honda and Acura dealers. The price is $995. That’s a lot for a toy, but not a ton for a solid commuter machine that you could carry on the subway with you, or store in the trunk of your vehicle for first-mile/last-mile solutions.

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