Lahore to Swat on a 70cc – Yes, We Actually Did It

People said we were crazy. 'You can't ride 70cc bikes to Swat!' they laughed. Well, we did it - 800+ kilometers on two Honda CD70s, through plains, mountains, and some of the most beautiful roads in Pakistan. This is our complete story.

The Planning (Or Lack Thereof)

This trip wasn't meticulously planned. It started with a joke over chai: 'Yaar, CD70 pe Swat jayen?' Two weeks later, we were actually doing it.

Our Bikes:

• Fahad's CD70: 2018 model, 65,000 km on odometer, freshly serviced
• Usman's CD70: 2020 model, 42,000 km, stock except for a luggage rack

Pre-Trip Prep:

• Complete engine oil change (Mehran Super 20W-50)
• New spark plugs
• Chain cleaning and lubrication
• Tire pressure check (extra 2 PSI for loaded riding)
• Brake adjustment
• Cost: Rs 2,500 per bike

Day 1: Lahore to Islamabad (375 km)

Departure: 5:00 AM from Thokar Niaz Baig

The M2 Motorway doesn't allow 70cc bikes, so we took the GT Road. Yes, all 375 kilometers of it. Riding a CD70 at 60 km/h for hours is... an experience.

Challenges:

• Trucks passing inches away (terrifying!)
• Constant gear shifting through towns
• Numb hands after 100 km
• Engine overheating near Gujrat (we stopped for 30 mins)

Fuel Consumption:

Fahad: 72 km/liter average
Usman: 68 km/liter average
Total fuel cost for Day 1: Rs 1,100 (both bikes)

Arrival in Islamabad: 5:30 PM (12.5 hours with breaks)

We crashed at a friend's place, legs cramping, backs aching, but spirits high. The CD70s performed flawlessly.

Day 2: Islamabad to Mingora (240 km)

Departure: 6:00 AM

This is where things got serious. The moment we hit the mountains near Abbottabad, our little 70cc engines were screaming. Uphill climbs at 20-30 km/h became the norm.

The Mansehra Climb:

This section humbled us. At one point, we were going so slow that a guy walking overtook us. The engines were running hot, and we had to stop every 30 minutes to let them cool.

Pro tip we learned: Downshift early, maintain momentum, and don't be afraid to use first gear. Pride isn't worth a seized engine.

Complete Cost Breakdown

Grand Total Cost: Rs 18,850 (for both riders)

Per person: Rs 9,425

What We Learned

1. CD70s are Tougher Than You Think

Both bikes completed 1,350 km without a single mechanical issue. The engine design is so simple and proven that it just works.

2. Comfort is Crucial

Invest in:

• Good quality gloves (your hands WILL hurt)
• Padded seat cover (Rs 800 well spent)
• Lower back support
• Quality riding jacket

Would We Do It Again?

Absolutely! But next time, we might take 7 days instead of 5 to enjoy the journey more. The CD70 proved it's not just a city commuter - it's a capable touring bike if you respect its limitations.

So to everyone who said it couldn't be done - we did it. And so can you! 🏍️🏔️