HONDA LAUNCHES NEW MODELS FOR 2005
05 October 2004 - Honda (UK)

Honda used the Intermot show in Munich, Germany – Europe’s largest motorcycle exhibition – to reveal the fun-packed 2005 model line up that will help to maintain its dominant position in the market.

However, the new model presentation was also underscored by a thorough briefing on the world’s largest motorcycle manufacturer’s commitment to improving motorcycle safety and limiting the damage done to the earth’s fragile environment.

First of the fun factors was the all-new Honda FMX650 that delivers super-motard styling for the city and beyond. Powered by a 644cc, air-cooled single cylinder engine, the FMX650 features proven performance in a taught-handling package.

Also revealed in Munich was an updated version of the CBR600RR that was launched to such acclaim in 2003, landing the coveted Motor Cycle News Bike of the Year award and the World Supersport title for Chris Vermeulen in its debut year.

The 2005 model CBR features new radial mounted callipers and new inverted front forks, as well as significant modifications to both engine and chassis to reduce weight and improve its already startling and race-proven performance.

For those who prefer their two-wheeled sport further from the tarmac, Honda’s new CRF450X offers the ballistic performance and sure handlingof the victorious CRF450R motocrosser allied to lights and an electric starter for enduro racing and exhilarating green lane sport riding.

At the opposite end of the motorcycling scale is Honda’s luxurious touring flagship, the Gold Wing. Celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2005, Honda has created a special, limited edition version with commemorative emblems decorating the bike and a dazzling 30th anniversary start-up and shut-down ‘ceremony’ on the central LCD information panel.

Honda’s flagship in the increasingly popular ‘naked’ motorcycling sector – the CB1300 – has also received a series of updates for 2005. These include a re-mapped fuel injection to provide quicker throttle response and even greater fistfuls of torque. And, to enhance braking assurance, an ABS-equipped version is now also available.

While the CB1300 houses a heavyweight 1300cc engine, Honda’s new lightweight Zoomer boasts just 50cc but offers fun by the bucketload. Already popular in the US, the Zoomer offers funky, rough-and-ready street styling that will be equally popular with the young and the not-so-young.

The Zoomer’s four-stroke engine features the first application of Honda’s precise PGM-FI fuel injection system in a 50cc engine that offers easy starting and instant acceleration for urban momentum. Big, fat tyres on black wheels complement the Zoomer’s sturdy chassis for stylish road-holding assurance.

Honda also used the show in Munich to demonstrate the latest developments in its motorcycle simulator technology. The company has had sophisticated riding simulators for some years but a new, compact and lower-cost version is now available for novice riders to familiarise themselves with motorcycle controls and traffic conditions before taking to the road.

Meanwhile, further advances in Honda’s dual combined brake systems and ABS options means this advanced braking technology will be made available to even more customers. Honda has said that all its sport and touring motorcycles over 250cc will have these options by 2007 and, by 2010, this will extend to ALL Honda machines over 250cc, with the exception of off-road bikes.

Finally, Honda has unveiled a number of concept bikes that it believes symbolise future transport solutions by minimising the impact on the environment. The hybrid scooter features technology already found in Honda automobiles, namely a combined petrol and electric power supply.

During acceleration and when extra power is needed, the electric motor supplements the petrol engine. The electric motor is then re-charged by harnessing the energy produced under braking.

And if you think that technology is clever, Honda is currently developing a fuel-cell powered scooter, the fuel for which is hydrogen gas and the only by-product of which is H20 – otherwise known as water.

www.honda.co.uk

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