The 2009 Honda NPS50, also known as the Ruckus, is a distinctive and highly popular urban scooter.
Produced from 2003 to the present, it features a minimalist, utilitarian body style that emphasizes its rugged frame.
The NPS50 typically came in a single trim, making choices straightforward.
New pricing ranged from approximately $2,300 to $2,600, and its enduring popularity stems from its unique aesthetic, surprising practicality, and go-anywhere attitude for city riding.
Produced from 2003 to the present, it features a minimalist, utilitarian body style that emphasizes its rugged frame.
The NPS50 typically came in a single trim, making choices straightforward.
New pricing ranged from approximately $2,300 to $2,600, and its enduring popularity stems from its unique aesthetic, surprising practicality, and go-anywhere attitude for city riding.
The Good
The 2009 Honda NPS50 excels in its exceptional reliability and fuel efficiency, offering a practical and economical ride.
Its iconic, minimalist design appeals to emotional buyers, while its nimble handling and ease of use make it a joy for daily commuting.
The Bad
Potential owners should be aware of the NPS50's limited top speed, which makes it unsuitable for highway use.
The minimalist design offers little wind protection, and storage is virtually non-existent without aftermarket additions.
2009 Honda NPS50: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 2009 Honda NPS50 is equipped with a single engine option.
- Engine Type: 49cc, liquid-cooled, four-stroke, OHC, single-cylinder
- Horsepower: While Honda does not officially publish horsepower figures for the NPS50, it is generally estimated to be around 3.4 to 4.0 horsepower.
Torque: Estimated around 2.2 lb-ft. - Fuel Economy: The NPS50 is renowned for its exceptional fuel efficiency. Owners frequently report figures in the range of 90-100 miles per gallon (MPG), making it extremely economical for daily use.
Fuel Tank Capacity: 1.3 gallons. - 0-60 Times: Due to its low horsepower and scooter design, 0-60 mph times are not applicable or measured for the NPS50.
Top Speed: The top speed is typically around 35-40 mph, depending on rider weight and terrain. - Towing Capacity: The Honda NPS50 is not designed for towing and has no towing capacity.
- Trim-Level Features: The 2009 Honda NPS50 typically comes in a single, well-equipped trim level, focusing on its minimalist and functional design.
- Body Style: Open frame, step-through design with a rugged, utilitarian appearance.
- Seating: Single rider seat, with an option for a passenger seat or rack.
- Lighting: Halogen headlight, taillight, and turn signals.
- Wheels: Cast-aluminum wheels.
- Brakes: Front and rear drum brakes.
- Suspension: Telescopic fork front suspension and single-sided swingarm rear suspension with a monoshock.
- Instrumentation: Simple analog speedometer, odometer, and indicator lights.
- Storage: Minimal under-seat storage, often supplemented with aftermarket racks or bags.
- Color Options: Available in various color schemes each model year, often with a focus on bold, matte finishes.
2009 Honda NPS50 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2009 |
| Make | Honda |
| Model | NPS50 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Motorcycle |
| Category | Motorcycle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | KUMAMOTO |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 49CC |
| Engine Size | 49L |
| Engine Cylinders | 1 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 2009 Honda NPS50 Have?
The 2009 Honda NPS50, like most Honda products, is generally lauded for its robust reliability and few widespread, significant problems.
One of the most commonly reported minor issues, though not exclusive to the 2009 model year, can be related to the fuel petcock. Over time, the diaphragm can wear out, leading to fuel leaks or difficulty starting.
Another area that might require attention with age is the speedometer cable, which can fray or break, causing the speedometer to stop working. This is a common wear-and-tear item on many scooters.
Some owners have reported issues with the automatic choke, particularly in colder climates, which might require adjustment or replacement of the component.
Electrical gremlins are rare, but as with any vehicle of this age, corroded connections in the wiring harness can sometimes lead to intermittent issues with lights or the starter. Regular inspection and cleaning of electrical connections can prevent these.
While there are no major systemic recalls that significantly plague the 2009 NPS50, it is always prudent to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database for any specific campaigns that might have been issued for this model year.
Long-term reliability is a strong suit for the Ruckus. The engine is a proven unit known for its durability. With regular oil changes, proper maintenance of the variator and drive belt, and keeping the air filter clean, these scooters can last for tens of thousands of miles.
The minimalist design, while a selling point, means fewer complex systems to fail. The frame, while exposed, is typically well-protected against corrosion if maintained. The suspension components are generally robust, though shocks can eventually lose their damping.
In summary, the 2009 Honda NPS50's frequently reported issues are mostly minor and age-related maintenance items rather than inherent design flaws. Its simplicity contributes significantly to its long-term reliability.
One of the most commonly reported minor issues, though not exclusive to the 2009 model year, can be related to the fuel petcock. Over time, the diaphragm can wear out, leading to fuel leaks or difficulty starting.
Another area that might require attention with age is the speedometer cable, which can fray or break, causing the speedometer to stop working. This is a common wear-and-tear item on many scooters.
Some owners have reported issues with the automatic choke, particularly in colder climates, which might require adjustment or replacement of the component.
Electrical gremlins are rare, but as with any vehicle of this age, corroded connections in the wiring harness can sometimes lead to intermittent issues with lights or the starter. Regular inspection and cleaning of electrical connections can prevent these.
While there are no major systemic recalls that significantly plague the 2009 NPS50, it is always prudent to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database for any specific campaigns that might have been issued for this model year.
Long-term reliability is a strong suit for the Ruckus. The engine is a proven unit known for its durability. With regular oil changes, proper maintenance of the variator and drive belt, and keeping the air filter clean, these scooters can last for tens of thousands of miles.
The minimalist design, while a selling point, means fewer complex systems to fail. The frame, while exposed, is typically well-protected against corrosion if maintained. The suspension components are generally robust, though shocks can eventually lose their damping.
In summary, the 2009 Honda NPS50's frequently reported issues are mostly minor and age-related maintenance items rather than inherent design flaws. Its simplicity contributes significantly to its long-term reliability.
How long will the 2009 Honda NPS50 last?
Based on owner data and typical maintenance, the 2009 Honda NPS50 is expected to provide a significant service life.
With diligent maintenance, including regular oil changes, drive belt inspections, and keeping the cooling system in check, it's not uncommon for Ruckus scooters to exceed 30,000 to 50,000 miles.
Some owners have reported achieving well over 100,000 miles with meticulous care, testament to Honda's engineering. The liquid-cooled, four-stroke engine is inherently durable.
Long-term durability is a major strength. Weaknesses over time typically revolve around wear-and-tear items such as the speedometer cable, brake shoes, and the aging of rubber components like hoses and seals. The exposed frame, while stylish, can be susceptible to rust if not properly protected, especially in harsh climates. However, the core mechanical components are built to last.
With diligent maintenance, including regular oil changes, drive belt inspections, and keeping the cooling system in check, it's not uncommon for Ruckus scooters to exceed 30,000 to 50,000 miles.
Some owners have reported achieving well over 100,000 miles with meticulous care, testament to Honda's engineering. The liquid-cooled, four-stroke engine is inherently durable.
Long-term durability is a major strength. Weaknesses over time typically revolve around wear-and-tear items such as the speedometer cable, brake shoes, and the aging of rubber components like hoses and seals. The exposed frame, while stylish, can be susceptible to rust if not properly protected, especially in harsh climates. However, the core mechanical components are built to last.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2009 Honda NPS50 embraces a philosophy of minimalist functionality, meaning its built-in technology, entertainment, and driver-assistance features are extremely basic.
Technology: The technological suite is straightforward and focused on essential operation.
Entertainment: There is no built-in entertainment system in the traditional sense, such as a radio or audio player. The NPS50 is designed for the pure experience of riding and navigating urban environments.
Driver-Assistance Features: The NPS50 does not come with any electronic driver-assistance features. Its compact size, nimble handling, and low top speed are its primary aids for navigating traffic safely.
Safety Features: Safety is primarily achieved through its design and basic components.
Optional Features: While not built-in, many aftermarket options are available to enhance convenience and utility, such as:
Crash-Test Ratings: As a low-speed scooter, the NPS50 is not subjected to the same types of crash testing as automobiles. Therefore, official crash-test ratings are not available. Safety is largely dependent on rider skill, adherence to traffic laws, and the use of protective gear.
Technology: The technological suite is straightforward and focused on essential operation.
- Instrumentation: A simple analog speedometer and odometer provide basic speed and distance information. Indicator lights for turn signals, high beam, and oil pressure are also present.
- Ignition: A standard keyed ignition system with a steering lock for security.
- Lighting: Features a halogen headlight for illumination, a taillight, and bright, clear turn signals.
Entertainment: There is no built-in entertainment system in the traditional sense, such as a radio or audio player. The NPS50 is designed for the pure experience of riding and navigating urban environments.
Driver-Assistance Features: The NPS50 does not come with any electronic driver-assistance features. Its compact size, nimble handling, and low top speed are its primary aids for navigating traffic safely.
Safety Features: Safety is primarily achieved through its design and basic components.
- Brakes: Equipped with front and rear drum brakes. While not as powerful as disc brakes, they are adequate for the scooter's speed and weight, offering reliable stopping power.
Lights: Adequate lighting for visibility to other road users.
Tires: Wide, sturdy tires contribute to stability and grip.
Chassis: The robust, exposed frame design is integral to its structural integrity.
Optional Features: While not built-in, many aftermarket options are available to enhance convenience and utility, such as:
- Rear racks for luggage or cargo boxes
- Upgraded seats for improved comfort or passenger carrying
- Windshields for added wind protection
- Different mirrors for improved visibility
- Alarm systems for enhanced security
Crash-Test Ratings: As a low-speed scooter, the NPS50 is not subjected to the same types of crash testing as automobiles. Therefore, official crash-test ratings are not available. Safety is largely dependent on rider skill, adherence to traffic laws, and the use of protective gear.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Pearl Cosmic Black
Pearl White
Pearl Blue
Red
Matte Gray
Interior Colors
Black Interior
Gray Interior
2009 Honda NPS50 Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2009 Honda NPS50 typically retailed for between $2,300 and $2,600 USD, depending on the dealer and any optional accessories.
Currently, the used market prices for a 2009 Honda NPS50 can vary significantly based on mileage, condition, and location. Expect to find them generally ranging from $800 to $1,800. Well-maintained examples with low mileage can command prices at the higher end of this spectrum, while those with higher mileage or cosmetic imperfections will be at the lower end.
The Honda NPS50 exhibits relatively slow depreciation compared to many other vehicles. Its enduring popularity, cult following, and reputation for reliability help maintain its value. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition, maintenance history, the presence of desirable aftermarket modifications (like racks or custom seats), and the color.
The Ruckus's unique styling and practicality for urban commuting ensure it remains a sought-after used vehicle, contributing to its respectable resale value over time.
Currently, the used market prices for a 2009 Honda NPS50 can vary significantly based on mileage, condition, and location. Expect to find them generally ranging from $800 to $1,800. Well-maintained examples with low mileage can command prices at the higher end of this spectrum, while those with higher mileage or cosmetic imperfections will be at the lower end.
The Honda NPS50 exhibits relatively slow depreciation compared to many other vehicles. Its enduring popularity, cult following, and reputation for reliability help maintain its value. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition, maintenance history, the presence of desirable aftermarket modifications (like racks or custom seats), and the color.
The Ruckus's unique styling and practicality for urban commuting ensure it remains a sought-after used vehicle, contributing to its respectable resale value over time.
2009 Honda NPS50 Cost of Ownership
The 2009 Honda NPS50 is exceptionally economical to own.
Insurance: Costs are typically very low, often a fraction of car insurance premiums, due to its low top speed and scooter classification.
Fuel: With fuel economy often exceeding 90 MPG, fuel costs are minimal. A full tank is inexpensive to fill.
Maintenance: Routine maintenance is straightforward and affordable. Oil changes, filter replacements, and brake adjustments are simple and can often be done by the owner, keeping shop costs down.
Repair: Parts are readily available and reasonably priced. Due to its robust build, major repairs are infrequent when maintained properly.
Overall, the NPS50 is one of the most cost-effective modes of transportation available.
Insurance: Costs are typically very low, often a fraction of car insurance premiums, due to its low top speed and scooter classification.
Fuel: With fuel economy often exceeding 90 MPG, fuel costs are minimal. A full tank is inexpensive to fill.
Maintenance: Routine maintenance is straightforward and affordable. Oil changes, filter replacements, and brake adjustments are simple and can often be done by the owner, keeping shop costs down.
Repair: Parts are readily available and reasonably priced. Due to its robust build, major repairs are infrequent when maintained properly.
Overall, the NPS50 is one of the most cost-effective modes of transportation available.
2009 Honda NPS50 Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2009 Honda NPS50 Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
2009 Honda NPS50 Insurance
Insurance for a 2009 Honda NPS50 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Motorcycle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2009 Honda NPS50 Compare to Other Motorcycle?
The 2009 Honda NPS50 (Ruckus) occupies a unique niche, making direct comparisons tricky. Its primary rivals are other 50cc scooters, but few share its radical minimalist design and utilitarian ethos.
Performance: In terms of raw performance, the NPS50 is among the slower 50cc scooters, topping out around 35-40 mph. Competitors like the Yamaha Vino 50 or Kymco Agility 50 might offer slightly better acceleration or top speed, though often with less robust engines. The NPS50 excels in maneuverability and ease of handling in tight urban spaces.
Features: The Ruckus is deliberately sparse on features. Competitors often offer more amenities like under-seat storage (though limited on most 50cc scooters), electric start (standard on Ruckus too), and sometimes digital dashboards or luggage hooks. The Ruckus prioritizes its open frame and customization potential over creature comforts.
Reliability: This is where the Honda NPS50 shines. Honda's reputation for bulletproof reliability is well-earned. While competitors from Kymco, SYM, or even Yamaha can be reliable, Honda often leads the pack in long-term durability and minimal mechanical issues over extended use.
Price: When new, the NPS50 was often priced at a slight premium compared to some of its more plasticky competitors, reflecting its build quality. On the used market, its strong resale value means it can sometimes be more expensive than comparable 50cc scooters, but this is offset by its longevity.
Alternatives:
Ultimately, the NPS50 is chosen not for its features or blistering speed, but for its unparalleled simplicity, iconic looks, and legendary Honda reliability for urban exploration.
Performance: In terms of raw performance, the NPS50 is among the slower 50cc scooters, topping out around 35-40 mph. Competitors like the Yamaha Vino 50 or Kymco Agility 50 might offer slightly better acceleration or top speed, though often with less robust engines. The NPS50 excels in maneuverability and ease of handling in tight urban spaces.
Features: The Ruckus is deliberately sparse on features. Competitors often offer more amenities like under-seat storage (though limited on most 50cc scooters), electric start (standard on Ruckus too), and sometimes digital dashboards or luggage hooks. The Ruckus prioritizes its open frame and customization potential over creature comforts.
Reliability: This is where the Honda NPS50 shines. Honda's reputation for bulletproof reliability is well-earned. While competitors from Kymco, SYM, or even Yamaha can be reliable, Honda often leads the pack in long-term durability and minimal mechanical issues over extended use.
Price: When new, the NPS50 was often priced at a slight premium compared to some of its more plasticky competitors, reflecting its build quality. On the used market, its strong resale value means it can sometimes be more expensive than comparable 50cc scooters, but this is offset by its longevity.
Alternatives:
- Similar Alternatives (for urban utility):
- Yamaha Zuma 50F: Offers a more conventional scooter design with better storage and a slightly more modern aesthetic, while still being reliable. Performance is comparable.
- Kymco Agility 50: Often a more budget-friendly option with a more typical enclosed scooter design, decent reliability, and more storage space.
- Better Alternatives (if performance or highway capability is needed):
- For anything beyond city commuting, a 125cc or 150cc scooter like the Honda PCX150 or Yamaha SMAX 155 would offer significantly more power, higher top speeds, and better highway suitability, though at a higher purchase and operating cost.
Ultimately, the NPS50 is chosen not for its features or blistering speed, but for its unparalleled simplicity, iconic looks, and legendary Honda reliability for urban exploration.
Final Verdict: Is the 2009 Honda NPS50 a Good Motorcycle?
The 2009 Honda NPS50 is ideal for urban dwellers seeking a stylish, incredibly reliable, and economical mode of transportation for short-distance commutes, errands, and recreational riding. It's perfect for those who value simplicity, low maintenance, and a unique aesthetic over cutting-edge tech or high speeds.
It is absolutely worth buying, especially on the used market, provided it has been reasonably maintained. Buying used is the most sensible option, as new models are still produced, but the older ones offer tremendous value.
Conditions that make it a great buy include: needing a dependable city scooter; wanting a platform for customization; and prioritizing long-term durability over initial performance. Avoid it if you require highway capability or extensive storage space. Focus on models with good maintenance records and reasonable mileage.
It is absolutely worth buying, especially on the used market, provided it has been reasonably maintained. Buying used is the most sensible option, as new models are still produced, but the older ones offer tremendous value.
Conditions that make it a great buy include: needing a dependable city scooter; wanting a platform for customization; and prioritizing long-term durability over initial performance. Avoid it if you require highway capability or extensive storage space. Focus on models with good maintenance records and reasonable mileage.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.