Gentsuki(50ccclass)

A 50 cc scooter pared down for short trips such as commuting, school runs and shopping. Built in Japan, it sold for 59,800 yen and weighed just 39 kg dry. Its newly developed air-cooled four-stroke OHV single used a high-speed plated cylinder, among other measures, to cut engine weight by 40 percent.

A 1983 sports scooter designed around the nimble, active image of a sneaker. According to Yamaha, a 4.5 hp engine in a 49 kg body gave it brisk acceleration, and its styling and practicality made it a favourite among young riders.