The Firefly by Matthew Roberts of Deus Ex Machina Japan is a modern interpretation of small capacity GP and TT motorcycles of the 50s and 60s. It is based on a venerable 1961 Honda Super Cub.
From the designer, “Its long, low lines, run uninterrupted from headlight to tail but for the riders perch – a spartan tuck-roll offering in Oxblood red, stitched by local moto upholstery master Miauchi-san -. and the original C105 speedometer, a nod to the machine’s heritage Its execution so harmonious as to have historians running to the archives in search of reference to a long lost racing prototype.
A modified frame and epoxy composite monocoque body of Roberts’ own design and construction, afford the Firefly its striking silhouette while saving precious kilograms. The inspiration drawn from the Cubs unique front suspension. The exceptionally slim top bridge and frame allowed the creation of a body . 105mm at its widest point, while entry in local pre 1964 race series provided the performance motivation As a neat twist, racing mandatories quick release to reveal the machine’s road going necessities – headlight and discrete illumination elsewhere – meaning the Firefly can compete on the track at the foothills of Mount Fuji on a Sunday and hit the streets of Tokyo on a Monday.
Removing the body reveals fuel cell, battery, coil and electrics laid out with surgical precision along a slender modified back bone. Polished and trued original C105 hubs now sport made in Japan DID alloy rims, custom spokes and 2.75 x 17 rubber shoe-horned to fit inside the narrow forks and rear fender. Bespoke and hand-made accoutrements pepper the Firefly’s form, such as alloy top bridge, stop light, rear set foot controls, fully adjustable alloy race shocks and externally mounted front fork rebound unit.
Open carb mouth gleefully gulped in cool mountain air for the run-in and secret shakedown session. Test pilot Yamamoto-san confirmed planted, confidence inspiring handling that holds a line unlike any Cub he’s ever ridden and ergonomics that beg for speed and welcome cornering velocity . Gearing set and Jetting sorted, the Firefly Went on to Break cover and début at the Battle of Bottom Link RACE Series.”