Honda Motorcycles blog

Honda Introduces Wave110i AT Cub-style Scooter Equipped with New CV-Matic Automatic Transmission

2010-02-23T21:01:58Z

Honda will begin sales in Thailand of a new Cub-type automatic transmission (AT) scooter model, Wave110i AT, in March of this year through A. P. Honda Co., Ltd., a Honda affiliate responsible for distribution of Honda motorcycle products in Thailand. Based on the Wave110i, which is highly acclaimed for its fuel efficiency, the Wave110i AT features a new automatic transmission called CV-Matic. The starting price will be 44,900 baht, with an annual sales plan of 50,000 units. (1 baht = approximately 2.7 yen)

CV-Matic makes the Wave110i AT a product that offers both the typical characteristics of Cub-type bikes such as longer riding range, durability and superior cost-performance as well as added characteristics such as ease of operation and comfortable ride. In addition to Thailand, Honda has plans for the sequential introduction of Wave110i AT in Vietnam and neighboring countries to meet the diversifying needs of customers in ASEAN markets.

The CV-Matic features a new cooling system which solved the issue of heat load on drive belt, and was developed based on the small-motorcycle automatic transmission technologies Honda has been fostering over the years. This new system enhances the durability of the drive belt and allows for a more compact design with a shorter distance between the drive pulley and driven pulley. Due to this advance, the engine position does not need to be significantly altered, optimizing design layout freedom.

Industry-wide motorcycle sales in Thailand in 2009 totaled approximately 1.54 million units (down 10% compared to 2008). With sales of approximately 1.01 million units, more than 60% of the industry sales total, Honda has been the best-selling motorcycle brand in Thailand for 21 consecutive years. Due to the added comfort and ease-of-operation, the overall sales of AT models has been growing in Thailand, accounting for approximately 710,000 units, or approximately half of the market size in 2009.

With the introduction of the Wave110i AT, an AT model of the already popular Wave110i, Honda will further enhance its product lineup to meet the diversifying customer needs. Moreover, Honda is planning to install Honda’s programmed fuel injection system (PGM-FI) to all models sold in Thailand by the end of 2010.

2007 Honda CBF600s Pictures Slideshow

2010-02-19T20:10:35Z

Hey, that’s my bike! These are the pictures I took at the first wash back in 2007.

2010 Honda Shadow RS Specification

2010-02-18T20:49:17Z

Here’s rolling proof that classic ideas never go out of style: the 2010 Honda Shadow® RS. This agile and responsive V-twin roadster has clean, crisp lines and standard-style riding ergonomics that promise plenty of fun times ahead. The Shadow RS’s higher pegs enhance ground clearance, and its thoroughly modern liquid-cooled 745cc V-twin engine with Honda’s sophisticated Programmed Fuel Injection adds to the riding pleasure. Savor the open road aboard the Honda Shadow RS.

Classic roadster tank shape and seat are inspired by the world of flat-track racing.
A torquey 745cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine pumps out a strong spread of power over a broad rpm range.
Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) incorporates a single 34mm-diameter throttle body.
Sturdy 41mm front fork features a large-diameter billet-aluminum triple-clamp for a distinctive look plus confident, neutral handling and a plush 4.6 inches of wheel travel.
Classic dual-shock rear suspension features five-position spring preload adjustability and 3.5 inches of wheel travel for a smooth ride.
Lightweight chain final-drive system continues classic styling theme.

Honda Genuine Accessories

Boulevard Screen (smoke), Backrest (low/tall), Backrest Mounting Bracket, Backrest Trim (low/tall), Touring Bag (plain/studded), Rear Carrier, Custom Grips, Master Cylinder Cap, License Plate Frame, Outdoor Cycle Cover.

11/20/2009 – TORRANCE, Calif. -

Model:	VT750RS
Engine Type:	745cc liquid-cooled 52° V-twin
Bore and Stroke:	79mm x 76mm
Compression ratio:	9.6:1
Valve Train:	SOHC; three valves per cylinder
Induction:	PGM-FI with automatic enrichment circuit, one 34mm throttle body
Ignition:	Digital transistorized with electronic advance
Transmission:	Wide-ratio five-speed
Final Drive:	O-ring–sealed chain
Suspension	Front: 41mm fork; 4.6 inches travel Rear: Dual shocks with five-position spring preload adjustability; 3.5 inches travel
Brakes	Front: Single 296mm disc with twin-piston caliper Rear: Drum
Tires	Front: 100/90-19 Rear: 150/80-16
Wheelbase:	61.5 inches
Rake (Caster angle):	32^o 30′
Trail:	134mm (5.3 inches)
Seat Height:	29.4 inches
Fuel Capacity:	2.8 gallons, including 0.7-gallon reserve
Estimated Fuel Economy	56 mpg (Honda’s fuel economy estimates are based on EPA exhaust emission measurement test procedures and are intended for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you ride, how you maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure, installation of accessories, cargo, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.)
Colors:	Metallic Gray, Pearl White
*Curb Weight:**	507 pounds
*Includes all standard equipment, required fluids and full tank of fuel- ready to ride.

2010 Honda CRF450R pictures

2010-02-16T20:36:30Z

More details:

Hondas Dominate British Bikers’ Top 100

2010-02-16T19:57:25Z

12,000 readers participated in the poll which forms part of MCN’s ‘Biking Britain Survey’. An impressive 1.5 million questions were answered in total, with each reader answering 100 questions about their motorcycle covering such diverse characteristics as comfort, build quality and reliability, engine and braking performance.

As well as having by far the largest number of machines in the top 100 with a total count of 25, Honda was also joint top for the number of machines in the final top 20, with the VFR400, CB900F Hornet, CBR600RR and CBR1000RR Fireblade machines featuring strongly. Many older Honda motorcycles were also included in the final 100, including the CBR1000F, CBR600F, ST1100 Pan European and CBR900RR Fireblade, highlighting the reliability, popularity and build-quality of used Hondas.

In the top 20, the highest placed Honda was the VFR400R, with a rating of 91% overall. The popular Hornet, evergreen favourite CBR600RR and class-leading Fireblade all followed with a 90% overall feedback rating.

Steve Martindale, General Manager of Honda (UK) Motorcycles said, “It’s encouraging to see so many Hondas, old and new, being voted in Britian’s top 100 bikes – but to achieve 25% of the whole survey is impressive. With a number of older models also in the survey, it really highlights the reliability, build-quality and longevity that you only get with a Honda. With a great new model line-up for 2010 – including the amazing new VFR1200F and impressive ‘chopper’ styled Fury – we’ll be continuing to provide great bikes which we’re sure will also be desirable for many years to come. On behalf of everyone at Honda, we’d like to thank all the motorcyclists who took time to complete the survey and for being proud of their Honda machines.”

HONDA TRANSALP CHOSEN FOR CELEBRITY 7,000 MILE CHARITY CHALLENGE

2010-02-16T19:49:37Z

Actor Danny John-Jules, who plays The Cat in cult classic TV series Red Dwarf, and endurance rider Graham Hoskins, are to undertake a gruelling ‘Iron Butts’ Challenge in aid of Sport Relief, with the Honda Transalp as their chosen two-wheel companion.

The 7,000-mile ride will see the intrepid pair take in three continents and fourteen countries in just fifteen days – from 27 February to 14 March – circumnavigating the Mediterranean and passing through dramatic landscapes as they cross from Europe, into Africa, through the Middle East into Turkey and back to the UK. They will cover 480 miles on their shortest day and 630 miles on their longest – not a trip for the faint hearted!

In preparation for their challenge, John-Jules and Hoskins visited Honda’s acclaimed training Institute for some hands-on familiarisation with their Transalps and, a rudimentary introduction to motorcycle mechanics with one of Honda’s expert Master Technicians!

Hoskins, the man behind the creation of the Iron Butts Med Circle Challenge, is no stranger to motorcycling adventures. Since fighting his battle with cancer, he has undertaken a number of epic charity motorbike rides, including a 4,000 mile round trip in six days from London to Moscow in aid of the 2005 Children in Need appeal.

Hoskins commented, “I’ve owned a Honda Fireblade for the last ten years and it has never missed a beat, so in my mind a Honda was the only real choice for this trip due to their incredible reliability, quality and range which has something for all riding needs. We looked at a few different bikes in their range as possibilities, but the Transalp is definitely the right machine for our challenge with its great adventure riding capabilities, comfy riding position, renowned reliability, good tank range and great luggage capacity. Bike adventure riding has risen in popularity due to certain TV programmes in the last few years, but I wanted to find a way of showing how these types of adventures are not just for the privileged few – a life changing experience like this can be achievable for anyone with two weeks off work and no support crew!”

49 year-old Danny John-Jules is best known for his comic role in the classic hit TV show Red Dwarf, which is as popular as ever with a new series being filmed later this year.

John-Jules said, “This is going to be no holiday, but it will be an incredible trip and experience where we aim to raise money for Sport Relief but also promote the fun and freedom of safe adventure motorcycling. I love crazy adventures and there’s no better reason to do something like this other than to support a worthwhile cause and encouraging more people into motorcycling, which I’m passionate about.”

The pair will set off on their Honda Transalps from Alexandra Palace in North London on Saturday 27 February, during the 2010 Motorcycle Show being held at the venue.

To follow their progress, where both Danny and Graham will post a series of blogs and images from their amazing adventure, visit www.ironbutts.co.uk. You can also support this dynamic duo by sponsoring them at www.uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ironbutts.

Honda Pledges Generators, Equipment And More than $300,000 for Haitian Earthquake Relief

2010-02-03T20:48:51Z

January 19 2010

Honda today announced a donation to the Red Cross of more than $300,000, as well as portable generators, water pumps, and other Honda products for use during humanitarian relief and recovery efforts in Haiti.

The donation represents the collective contribution of the Honda family of companies in North America, which consists of sales, manufacturing, finance and research and development operations in the United States, Canada and Mexico, with employment of more than 31,000 associates.

“We want to help address the dire human need that Haiti is experiencing as a result of this disaster,” said Tetsuo Iwamura, president & chief executive officer of American Honda Motor Co., Inc., and chief operating officer of Honda’s North American region. “Honda has a longstanding relationship with the Red Cross, and we will work continuously with them to assist with the effort to provide much-needed relief.”

The Red Cross has emphasized that the greatest current need is funding to support on-site emergency response teams. Honda has also been in close communication with the Red Cross regarding its need for material and equipment such as generators and water pumps on site, and Honda will continue to work with the Red Cross to determine its need for such support in Haiti.

The Honda donation consists of more than $300,000 in cash. This pledge will be augmented by a company matching gift available at various Honda companies, with funds designated to the Red Cross.

The evolution of a biker

2010-01-27T19:52:20Z

I’m not going to talk in general about the evolution of a biker but I will tell you my story because looking back is kind of funny. About 2 days ago one of my friends saw my post on Parked Motorcycle Syndrome. He’s a car guy and I needed to explain a little how I become a biker and eventhough I’ve got the chance to drive some quite exotic cars myself like the 507 HP BMW M6 or the 5 series, I know and you know that these are different things. He said that nothing compares with the “orgasms” a good car provides, all I could think was the cost of auto insurance for example – look here to see some exotic wrecked vehicles and you will get a nasty feeling about.

So how did I become a biker? My uncle is a biker for 30 something years, I’ve got to ride as a bitch on several occasions but that wasn’t the thing. In fact I felt mostly afraid and looking forward to the ride end each time.

That happen until about 5 years ago when I went to a bikers party to meet my uncle there (I’ve drove my car there). And what do you know. Everybody knew anybody. Long stories about trips. Long stories about adventures, accidents, getting your buddies help and an overall warm feeling of belonging to a special group. Oh and the sound of engines!

I’ve got home mad! It was a Sunday and I remember I could hardly wait for the Monday to find a moto learning school. 2 days later I was taking lessons – I remember I was very afraid of loosing the bike there and in the same day I went and bought myself a bicycle – I had a fake feeling it would help me get my equilibrium and confidence, that is how afraid I was. The exam day came a month later – I was still very afraid and quit and took some more lessons. By the time I was convinced I will never be able to actually ride.

I somehow managed to fight my fear and took the exam some 2 weeks later. And went ahead and bought myself a $400 Russian motorcycle bike with sidecar and kickstart. An absolute nightmare – nothing was working. So anyway I went in traffic in Bucharest which is a very bad traffic city – crowded, nobody follows the rules and nobody notices the bikers. I remember I stopped at a traffic light next to a bus and the rear wheel was incredible close and big.

About 3 months later I decided that riding the Russian bike was simply totally unreliable, borrowed some money from my mother and bought myself a ‘86 Honda CB450S – that’s when my love for Hondas started. Now, you should know that this “86 Honda was very tired, and had like millions of Km done. And still, it started each morning and got me everywhere. It was a Honda!

By this time I managed to fight my fear somehow, and I remember I was thinking: well maybe in a few years I will become a real biker. Go to the Alps, ride and ride and ride like a real biker. I think this is one of the very few moments in life when your dreams come true.

Good news in the second year, my uncle sold me his Honda CB750 Nighthawk – which I still own today and take a great pride when riding it. I’m very convinced that this bike will “outrun the Universe” as the Top Gear show says about Hondas. It got me my first true rides, the biker feeling and the first brooken leg. Yep, I had an accident on my second year – a car didn’t stop at the sign. Nothing major, just remember my mom going crazy.

Third year started and I was kind of shaken because of the accident. I was riding really slowwwww. I still had fun, but I wasn’t riding each day. Totally unrelated, one day I had a business lunch next to the Honda dealer. I entered the shop just to have a look at the new Hornet 2007 – it was just launched and in the magazines it was looking amazing. I’ve sat on it. Looked at it. It wasn’t what I expected. It wasn’t me.

I was trying to see the Hornet from different perspectives and got about 2 steps back – that was when my back went for the first time in contact with the CBF600. I turned to see what I was touching, and here is was. My love at first sight bike: the 2007 CBF600s - naked bike, classic looks, non-digital gauges, no ABS and with carburators. As close as it gets to the real biking experience – no fancy electronics, no allien looks.

I jumped on the seat. I had an incredible feeling – it was like I didn’t need to change anything – perfect seat position, perfect handlebars, everything was already set for me. I bought it – I remember my mom saying I’m crazy to pay the price – it was almost the same price with a low cost car. I was thinking the same.

30.000 km later, Alps trip done, may riding stories, I know that no money can buy what a bike can give you. It doesn’t matter how much it costs, it changed and maybe saved my life. Looking forward for the French Alps ride in about 5 months.

Dealing with Parked Motorcycle Syndrome

2010-01-02T15:04:14Z

What’s your way of dealing with the Parked Motorcycle Syndrome (PMS)? Here is mine: an nice glass of Chivas Regal aged 12 years, a Turkish nargilea, cozy leather chair and plenty Youtube. It almost makes PMS bearable.

Isle of Man TT race slow motion

2009-12-31T09:23:58Z

Have you seen these slow motion movies from Isle of Man TT race 2009? Incredible the amount of deformation and movement a bike has at high speed. Whatch for the tires how they change shape in contact with the ground and how the entire bike stresses when reaching the ground after a airborne jump. Impressive.