Super Cub (スーパーカブ) is a slice-of-life anime series that subtly explores the beauty of minimalism, independence, and growth through quiet moments and motorbike rides. Adapted from the light novel series by Tone Koken and illustrated by Hiro, this anime stands apart for its gentle pacing and visual storytelling, making it a meditative viewing experience. Produced by Silver Link and directed by Toshirou Fujii, it aired in Spring 2021 and comprises 12 episodes.
Rather than delivering dramatic plot twists or fantasy escapades, Super Cub connects emotionally through real-life simplicity. With minimal dialogue and a minimalist aesthetic, the series excels in introspection and personal evolution, all set in the quiet backdrop of rural Japan.
Super Cub Anime
Title | Super Cub (スーパーカブ) |
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Genre | Slice of Life, School, Iyashikei (Healing) |
Source | Light Novel by Tone Koken |
Studio | Silver Link |
Director | Toshirou Fujii |
Series Composition | Toshizō Nemoto |
Original Run | April 7, 2021 – June 23, 2021 |
Episodes | 12 |
Opening Theme | “Mahou no Kaze” by Akane Kumada |
Ending Theme | “Haru e no Dengon” by Yuki Yomichi, Ayaka Nanase & Natsumi Hioka |
Music Composer | Tomohisa Ishikawa & ZAQ |
Super Cub Summary
Set in the serene countryside of Yamanashi Prefecture, Super Cub follows the story of Koguma, a reserved second-year high school student living a life devoid of friends, hobbies, or family. Her days are a reflection of emptiness—until a spontaneous decision leads her to purchase a used Honda Super Cub motorbike.
For just 10,000 yen, the bike becomes a gateway to change. What starts as simple transportation evolves into a symbol of freedom, self-reliance, and connection. As she ventures into the world, Koguma meets Reiko and later Shii, forming a trio of quietly complex characters each dealing with their own forms of solitude. Through these interactions and personal milestones, the show explores transformation in the subtlest yet most profound ways.
Super Cub Episode List
Episode No. | Title |
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1 | The Girl with Nothing |
2 | Reiko |
3 | Things Received |
4 | The Job |
5 | Reiko’s Summer |
6 | My Cub |
7 | The Girl of Summer-Sky Aqua |
8 | Shii’s Place |
9 | In Ice |
10 | Snow |
11 | A Distant Spring |
12 | Super Cub |
Super Cub Animation and Sound
Visual Style
The animation by Silver Link is intentionally restrained, embracing a subdued color palette. This changes dynamically when Koguma rides her Super Cub—the colors brighten, illustrating emotional warmth and transformation. Backgrounds are soft and rural, and character designs are simple yet expressive. The use of silence amplifies the emotional weight of each frame.
Sound and Music
Music plays an instrumental role in guiding the emotional tone. The opening theme “Mahou no Kaze” carries a gentle but uplifting tune, matching the slow-paced charm of the anime. The ending song “Haru e no Dengon” provides a collective, heartfelt closure to each episode. Composer Tomohisa Ishikawa and ZAQ craft an ambient score that blends seamlessly with natural sounds—emphasizing isolation, tranquility, and joy in discovery.
Character Analysis & Waifu Highlights
Despite its slice-of-life structure, Super Cub offers compelling and memorable female characters, each with unique traits that qualify them as waifus in their own right.
🏍️ Koguma – The Introverted Healer
Name | Koguma (こぐま) |
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Voice Actress | Yuki Yomichi |
Waifu Type | Dandere / Healing-type |
Special Traits | Empathetic, Self-reliant, Gentle |
Abilities | Mechanical intuition, adaptation to hardship |
Waifu Appeal | Her silent resilience, transformation arc, and the serenity she brings to others make her a classic iyashikei waifu. |
Koguma embodies quiet strength. Her lack of dialogue is never a weakness—it’s a strength that demands attention. Watching her evolve from someone who can’t even ride to school, to someone who changes the lives of others, is deeply gratifying. She fits the healing-type waifu archetype, offering comfort through introspection and emotional balance.
🛠️ Reiko – The Confident Enthusiast
Name | Reiko |
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Voice Actress | Ayaka Nanase |
Waifu Type | Onee-san / Cool Beauty |
Special Traits | Confident, Adventurous, Independent |
Abilities | Advanced mechanical knowledge, long-distance riding |
Waifu Appeal | She’s charismatic and self-assured, the ideal senpai-type with just enough mystery. |
Reiko contrasts Koguma perfectly. She’s sociable, adventurous, and already living the “Cub life” to the fullest. Her knowledge of motorcycles and her ability to forge her own path make her an inspiring figure. Reiko adds energy and spark to the story, while still maintaining a composed and mature presence.
☕ Shii Eniwa – The Gentle Artisan
Name | Shii Eniwa (恵庭 椎) |
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Voice Actress | Natsumi Hioka |
Waifu Type | Deredere / Little Sister Type |
Special Traits | Sweet, Kind, Emotionally warm |
Abilities | Cafeteria management, creative décor, emotional support |
Waifu Appeal | Shii’s charm lies in her warmth and devotion, ideal for those who seek nurturing affection. |
Shii is the emotional core of the group. She brings a subtle yet impactful influence to Koguma’s and Reiko’s lives. Her dreams, fragility, and hope for connection make her incredibly endearing. She’s the ideal deredere waifu—unconditionally loving and emotionally expressive.
Themes and Symbolism
Super Cub is more than a story about a motorbike. It is a meditative reflection on solitude, identity, and connection. The Honda Super Cub represents freedom—literal and metaphorical. For Koguma, the Cub is not just transport; it’s liberation from a colorless existence.
Other recurring themes include:
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Empowerment through independence
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Friendship formed through shared journeys
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The role of small joys in mental well-being
The anime’s visual storytelling emphasizes the “less is more” philosophy. The use of silence, light, and framing often replaces dialogue, drawing viewers inward.
Audience & Impact
Super Cub resonates most with audiences who appreciate iyashikei (healing) anime like Yuru Camp, Non Non Biyori, or Aria. It’s not for those looking for action or romance, but for those willing to be patient, it offers something profoundly intimate.
The anime also had a noticeable cultural impact among motorcycle enthusiasts and fans of scenic Japanese countryside, further establishing its place as a cult slice-of-life gem.
Final Verdict
Category | Score (out of 10) |
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Story | 8.5 |
Characters | 9.0 |
Animation | 8.0 |
Soundtrack | 9.0 |
Emotional Resonance | 9.5 |
Waifu Appeal | 9.0 |
Overall Score | 8.8 / 10 |
Super Cub may appear unassuming at first glance, but it is a masterclass in subtle storytelling and emotional growth. With three beautifully crafted waifu archetypes—each contributing their own flavor to the narrative—it leaves a lasting impression through introspection, independence, and serene companionship.
For Waifu.co.za readers who seek the kind of waifus that heal rather than thrill, and who value the quiet evolution of character over loud declarations, Super Cub is an essential addition to the slice-of-life collection.
Reviewed by: Waifu.co.za Editorial Board
Date: April 22, 2025