Honda's running a "End of Season" sale that provides a manufacturer discount on selected 2008 and 2009 models of up to $5900 - that's a 2009 GoldWing discount.

Might be a good time to pick up a Honda if you're looking for one.

Other discounts are:

$1000 off a 2008 CBR125R - bringing its price to $2499.
$3000 off a 2008 CBR600RR bringing its price to $9499.

Or you can also apparently get 0.9% financing for up to 60 months on other select 2008 or 2009 motorcycles.

For more details check out: http://www.summerlovin.ca

Honda announces contingency for riders in the Canadian Enduro Championship. $34,000 in total. News came by way of the folks at the CEC.

Full details below:

Sitting on the fence and can't decide which brand of motorcycle to buy this spring? Want to race in the exciting Royal Distributing Canadian Enduro Championship, Eastern Canadian Enduro Championship or Western Canadian Enduro Championship and make some money doing it? Then it is time to get on on a Honda!

Honda Canada has been a strong supporter of World Enduro Canada racing activities and this year there is over $34,000 up for grabs to qualifying Honda riders. See your local Honda dealer for more details.

2010 Honda Off-Road Contingency - Red Rider Program

W.E.C. ENDURO (Canadian Enduro Championship Series) -- OVERALL CLASS WINNERS

We went to the big Atlantic Motorcycle and ATV show this past weekend (Feb 12-14) and although there seemed to be a few exhibitors that didn't come around this year; I'd say the show was still a success.

Compare if you'd like the sound of a new VFR1200 with an aftermarket exhaust vs. an old school gear driven cam VFR. Some say that the old VFR's are amoung "the" best sounding motorcycles of all time.

The Kumamoto plant in Japan features state-of-the-art efficiency and the latest production technologies. The plant is the main production facilities for Honda motorcycle operations around the world. On the 130 metre long production line for the Honda VFR1200F, a new bike comes off the line every 90 seconds.

I for one don't care how much bad press the VFR1200F has been getting. I'm really looking forward to seeing it in the flesh. Looking forward even more to taking one for a spin. I do own a VFR 800 though - maybe Honda won't allow it - if you're to believe the Internet.

The Internet is being a little unkind to the new VFR1200 design, or so some really influential designers think. MCN is reporting that rival designers are coming to the defence of the new VFR 1200 design.

Patrick Trahan is a Canadian hailing from Montreal. He's doing something that many people have have tried but relatively very few have done - he's going to compete in the Dakar on a motorcycle.

If you were at the Toronto Motorcycle show you've already seen it, but if you're in another part of Canada; relax... You might get a chance yet. Honda Canada is bringing the new VFR1200FA on tour with them.

An Internet source is reporting the new Honda VFR 1200 has a Canadian MSRP and it's $18,299. The information isn't on Honda Canada's website yet - it just says TBD (To Be Determined) at the moment.

That's a bit less than many were expecting and less than Honda's mighty ST1300 sport touring touring machine, which lists at $20,599.

Time will tell if this number is accurate; we haven't gotten word from Honda Canada yet.

I ride a Honda VFR800 so I'm particularly interested in this new model.

Organized by the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, Inc.(JAMA), the 2009 Tokyo Motor show opens its doors to the public on Friday, October 23rd. There's going to be plenty to see there but perhaps most interesting will be the motorcycles of course!

Honda's got a new advertisement for their new VFR1200F. Does it feature a high revving, slicing up some twisty road, soundtrack? - Nope. It's got lots of music. The scenery is pretty decent - riding through ... the alps?

One nice feature though - it does show the bike sans hard bags and with.

Could have been better in my opinion but any video is good video at this point I guess. There's a second or two of the exhaust note too. Just a teaser amount though because it's definitely not being revved very hard - just about to 6,000 RPM.

Okay, these aren't extremely high tech photo photo comparisons but they're good enough photoshops that you'll get the idea of the ergonomic differences between Honda's new VFR1200 and the VFR 800.

The photo's have the handlebar, seat, to peg relationship drawn in with triangles so you can compare the ergonomics of each machine.

First up is the VFR800 in the front compared to the VFR1200 in the rear:



Now for the Kawasaki Concours 14 in front and the VFR 1200 in the rear:


The photo's were supplied by CoolHand over at RidetheRock.com. Thanks CoolHand!

Well, the rumors have finally come to fruition - Honda's new VFR1200 is here and it packs a 1237cc, 76-degree V-four. The new V-four claims 170 horsepower, with torque peaking at 95 lb-ft.

It's emphasis is 'sport touring' rather than flat out speed. You'll be able to start your sport touring on this machine sometime in December with the bike set for a Spring 2010 release. Honda has yet to release a price on the high-tech bike, but says that will also be decided by December.

Here's some of the key facts and figures you might be interested in:

Features

- Honda MotoGP V-4 engine technology and architecture bring cutting-edge performance to the VFR1200F.
- Unique cylinder layout with rear two cylinders located innermost on the crankshaft and front cylinders located outboard narrows the rider interface aboard the VFR1200F.
- Throttle By Wire for next-generation throttle response.
- Optional Dual Clutch Automatic Transmission with manual mode and automatic mode with two D/S modes and paddle-style shifters offers unparalleled freedom through innovative technology.
- Next-generation shaft drive system with offset pivot point and sliding constant-velocity joint for a new level of shaft-drive performance and control.
- Transferable one-year, unlimited-mileage limited warranty; extended coverage available with a Honda Protection Plan.


Technical Specs:

Model: VFR1200F / VFR1200F with Dual Clutch Automatic Transmission
Engine Type: 1237cc liquid-cooled 76° V-4
Bore and Stroke: 81mm x 60mm
Compression Ratio: 12.0:1
Valve Train: SOHC; four valves per cylinder
Induction: PGM-FI with automatic enrichment circuit, 44mm throttle bodies and 12-hole injectors
Ignition: Digital transistorized with electronic advance
Transmission: Six-speed (VFR1200F) / Six-speed automatic with two modes and manual mode (VFR1200F with Dual Clutch Automatic Transmission)
Final Drive: Shaft
Suspension:
Front: 43mm cartridge fork with spring preload adjustability; 4.7 inches travel
Rear: Pro Arm single-side swingarm with Pro-Link® single gas-charged shock with remote spring preload adjustability and rebound damping adjustability; 5.1 inches travel
Brakes:
Front: Dual full-floating 320mm discs with CBS six-piston calipers with ABS
Rear: Single 276mm disc with CBS two-piston caliper with ABS
Tires
Front: 120/70 ZR17 radial
Rear: 190/55 ZR17 radial
Wheelbase: 60.8 inches (1545mm)
Rake (Caster angle): 25°30’
Trail: 101.0mm (4.0 inches)
Seat Height: 32.1 inches (815mm)
Fuel Capacity: 4.9 gallons
Color: Red, Silver Metallic, White
Curb Weight*: 591 pounds (VFR1200F) / 613 pounds (VFR1200F with Dual Clutch Automatic Transmission)

Price - To be determined; but we'll let you know as soon as you find out.

Honda is clearing out some stock from previous years and they're doing it through invoice incentives that knock thousands off the original MSRP. Big BUT here though - this is in the US. There's no indication on the Canadian website these changes are effective here to (we'd expect some currency and market adjustments of course).

There's some smoking deals to be had!

- 2008 CRF450R, $7,999 Original MSRP - $2,000 Invoice Incentive = $5,999 Effective MSRP
- 2008 CBR1000RR, As low as 0.99% Fixed APR Financing, and up to $2,500 bonus bucks
- 2007 Interceptor, $10,599 Original MSRP - $2,660 Price Reduction = $7,939 New MSRP
- 2007 VTX1800, Total Incentive discount of $6,125 based on 2007 VTX18TT/L2 model after $5,125 Permanent Price Reduction off of original MSRP and $1,000 Bonus Bucks.

$1,500 factory-to-dealer Incentives available on new and unregistered 2008 VTX1800 T Spec 2 models. Factory-to-dealer Incentives subject to dealer participation.

$2,975 price reduction on base model 2007 VTX1800C L1 and $1,000 Bonus Bucks.

Total incentive discount of $3,975 based on 2007 VTX1800C L1 after $2,975 Permanent Price Reduction off of original MSRP and $1,000 Bonus Bucks.

Honda Canada has let us know that they'll be bringing the CBF600 to dealerships here in the great white north. The 700Cc Deauville will not be coming to Canada.

The CBF600 isn't a brand new bike; it has been around in Europe for several years. It made its debut in 2004 and proven itself to be a great all-rounder model.

The engine is a detuned version of the current CBR600RR engine. It also features a cast aluminium chassis, 41 mm telescopic fork up front, and a single rear shock (both are pre-load adjustable).

The CBF600 is not quite naked and comes with a half-fairing. It's said to be practical, easy to ride with very smooth power delivery. Should be a great confidence boosting bike for beginners.

In Europe the CBF600 is said to make right around 77 horsepower and 43 lb-ft of torque at 8,250 rpm. Wet weight comes in at 222 kg (489 lb). The Euro spec bike also comes with combined ABS. Top speed is claimed to be 136 mph. The Europe spec model also has a 3-way adjustable seat which might come in handy for riders who might be a little shorter in the leg.

It's likely the CBF600 will come to Canada with pretty near identical specs as the European model but we'll let you know full specs and pricing as soon as we can. Likely in October.

If you'd like more details on the Euro-spec CBF600 you may want to check out the 2008 Product Information Guide (PDF) from Honda - HERE.

Curious about Honda's new dual clutch transmission that's reportedly going to be featured first on the upcoming Honda VFR 1200?

Race car and rally drivers have been benefiting from similar systems but Honda is bringing the technology to the masses - and motorcycles.

Check out this YouTube clip we came across that shows what is said to be a prototype along with clear explanations of the benefits and operation of a dual clutch motorcycle transmission.

Manufacturer: HARLEY-DAVIDSON

New details about the engine of Honda's V4 engine have emerged from Japan via a YouTube clip with Honda senior engine manager Tsutomu Ishi.

Honda has announced two new models for 2010 but no word from Honda Canada whether they'll come to Canada just yet. It seems reasonable that they will to us though.

The Shadow Phantom cruiser and the NT700V touring bike. The Shadow Phantom incorporates the same 745cc fuel-injected v-twin found in the Shadow Aero and Shadow Spirit 750. It features blacked out bodywork which Honda indicates is "bobber influenced." The Shadow Phantom price is reported to come in at $7,999 USD.

The other model will bear the alphanumeric name of NT700V and Honda refers to this saddlebag-equipped upright as "the only true lightweight touring bike on the market." It will be powered by a 680cc v-twin. In standard form the NT700V will come in red and will be priced at $9999 USD, while an ABS-equipped model will retail at $10,999 USD. Both bikes hit dealerships this November.

Honda's got a new Ad that's been posted to YouTube. It doesn't give away very much but features about 5 seconds worth of V4 engine sound that's reportedly from the new V4 engine.

Check it out! You've got to wait until the very end, about the 1:22 mark, to hear the engine.

Japanese newspaper, Yomiuri Daily Online, is reporting that Kawasaki is set to shift production of medium-sized and large motorcycles to Thailand from Japan in 2010 because of cheaper labor costs.

Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI) produced about 150,000 motorcycles at the Akashi factory and about 110,000 in Thailand during fiscal 2008 in the midst of the financial crisis.

The firm is said to plan to start producing motorcycles with engine capacities of more than 650cc (and increase output of midsize motorcycles) in Thailand, according to the sources. They'll reportedly continue to make some high-end large models at the Akashi factory but sharply cut production there.

Honda is also reportedly considering a similar shift and may move their midsize motorcycle production to Thailand.

Source - Yomiuri Daily Online via Bloomberg

Honda's EVO 6 concept bike is a high-output naked bike sporting a boxer configuration six -cylinder 1800cc engine, not to mention that single-sided swingarm. The bike was originally shown at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show and received plenty of positive reviews.

According to Spanish news site Solomoto it was reported that Honda was actually going to build it but latest reports are now saying that Honda have shelved it for now.

Too bad, it looks good to us.

All rumor of course but it's certainly an interesting looking design that would provide some competition to the V-Max. It's an expensive model to introduce in tough economic times though - perhaps the reason Honda won't be producing the model just yet.

We just got word from Honda that their new to Canada SH150i scooter is going to be arriving in Canadian dealerships one week from now.

The scooter is already a popular model in Europe. It features a 153 cc liquid-cooled four-stroke engine with PGM-FI fuel injection and Honda's V-Matic automatic transmission. Easy on gas, yet powerful enough for the highway; its big 16-inch wheels contribute to the SH150i's confident handling and sure control over bumps in the road.

If you're heading to work, or the grocery store, and you've got some stuff to carry - don't worry, the SH150i has plenty of under-seat storage and a standard 35-litre top box.

MSRP $4,999

- More Honda news HERE.
- Full details on the Honda SH150i HERE.

Not quite sure what to make of this recall of the Honda SH150i scooter - there are several hundred units affected but there's no corrective action required.

The date of the recall in the Transport Canada database is 2009/07/06, yet the SH150i hasn't hit showroom floors yet.

Honda SH150i
Transport Canada Recall # 2009195
System: Lights And Instruments
Units Affected: 324

Certain scooters do not have any horizontal headlight aim adjustment. This does not comply with the requirements of TSD 7.8.2. The handlebar mounted headlight is aimed at the time of manufacture. Correction: Since this does no pose any safety risk, no corrective action is required.

Honda Motor Europe has launched a new website for the brands upcoming V4 models. It's very scant on details unfortunately and seemingly ignores the fact that if you've been on the Internet and looking, you've probably already seen the images of the new VFR1200 and ST1200. Instead they're showing the hubless concept bike shown at last year's Intermot show.

But they're going to be holding a contest... don't get too excited yet, it's only open to residents of Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland and the UK. Folks from those countries can enter to win a trip and opportunity to attend the press launch for the V4 bikes in Mallorca, Spain in January of 2010.

The site does feature a video and discussion with a Honda designer. The site also offers a promise that "Full site for the new Honda V4 motorcycle coming soon."

- Here's the LINK.
- More Honda news HERE.

Honda's newest scooter to come to Canada - the SH150i - is being delayed a little because it needs some minor modifications to meet Transport Canada Compliance Requirements.

It's still coming to Canada via Europe, where it's already a popular model. The word from Honda Canada is that the SH150i will arrive in Canadian dealerships in late summer 2009.

- To learn more about the SH150i check out the dedicated site Honda created for it HERE.

- Check out more Honda News via CMR - HERE

Image via Honda Canada

MCN has come up with some photo's that is claims are patent images of the new 2010 Honda ST1200 touring machine. It will feature the same engine and shaft drive train as the 2010 VFR which spy shots and official photos have been uncovered for.

On Wed July 22/2009 Clarington Honda and Honda Canada will be hosting a tech seminar on the Varadero and the CBF1000.

From the folks at Clarington Honda:

Honda Canada will be doing a seminar as well as a demo ride on Veradero and CBF 1000. Clarington Honda will also have competitors models available to ride too.

The event will be taking place on site at our dealership in Bowmanville, ON as well that night is bike night too. We ask that anyone interested in participating call and confirm your attendance so we no how many people to expect.

This is a great opportunity to ride our bikes as well as the competitor models to get a first hand feel for what makes Honda the leader in engineering and performance.

Contact Mike to book your spot, spots are filling fast.

Mike Michea
Clarington Honda (29 Spicer Square, Bowmanville ON)
Your Honda Everything Store
905-697-2333 ext.111
Fax: 905-697-2327
mike.michea@claringtonhonda.com

Yesterday, MCN claimed to have scooped the industry and come out with the first photo's of Honda's new V4 bike, the VFR1200. Photo's and details are all rumor at this point and Honda hasn't commented specifically about the new VFR yet. Honda have have indicated a new V4 bike is on the way though.

The much anticipated, much blogged, and constant source of Internet rumor - VFR replacement - is due to arrive in the Spring of 2010 says Honda’s Senior Managing Director Shigeru Takagi.

Takagi said: “We really believe we can develop a new era starting with this V4-powered machine. It is just the beginning and represents a new breed of Honda which will define Honda’s own taste and styling.

“This bike will be the perfect road machine that Honda customers have called for. It will be an epoch-making machine and more bikes from the V4 platform are possible.

“We know people think this bike is going to be a replacement for the VFR800 and the Blackbird but we do not see this bike as a replacement for anything. We see it as an all-new breed of machine, something very special.”

Takagi would not reveal the price, but did confirm when it will be available. He said: “The finished V4-powered machine will be seen in autumn 2009. The bike will be on sale in spring 2010.

"The bike is different to the concept shown for the first time at Milan in 2009 but the link between them is very clear to see.”

And for some pure speculation; Vanjey Design Studio has come up with their idea of how the 2010 VFR might look. Some clear influences from the V4 sports bike concept at the Cologne Motorcycle Show and the current CBR 1000RR are visible.

There's still more rumor that the bike will feature a 1200cc engine to take on some of the bigger competition. That's an exciting prospect but some current VFR fans may be saddened by the larger displacement because they think the 800cc displacement offers the right blend of performance and size. You can't please everybody, and the displacement is purely rumor so we'll just have to watch this one as it continues to evolve.



* Image courtesy Vanjey Design.

Honda has launched a 'technology picture book' website that shows and demonstrates in pictures, Honda core motorcycle technologies. It's an easy-to-understand written and visual guide.

In the words of Honda...

"We want the latest Honda motorcycle technology details to be known deeply by interested persons. That's what prompted the development of this. You may expect much from the passionate desires of our R&D staff."

What to know just what VTEC is? Well, this site has the answer and will show you how it works. What about a CVT transmission? - Yes, that's in there too. There's also details on fuel injection for small engines, advanced brake systems, electric steering dampers, and more.

Check out Honda's Technology Picture Book here.

Honda's newest scooter to hit Canada has a price tag now. It's set at $4,999. So it's not a bottom of the market price-point by any means but you are getting Honda's reputation for quality.

So when factors such as maintenance, longevity, standard features, and resale value are all factored in you get a better idea of how that price fits. It's still not cheap but if you ride it, and ride it often, it should represent a good value over time.

Click image for larger version.


For more details on the Honda SH150i check out our previous post on it.

Image courtesy Honda Canada.

CALABOGIE, Ont. (CANADA) - May 26, 2009 – RMP Racing’s development rider Steven Nickerson (Hamilton Ont.) won a hard fought last lap shootout to take the Honda CBR125R Challenge win at this past weekend’s season opener at Calabogie. Pro Superbike racer, Ross Millson (Hamilton Ont.) battled throughout the weekend to find the grip he needed with his day ending prematurely in the second half of Sunday’s Superbike race.

The team arrived at Calabogie Motorsports Park for Thursday’s practice excited to begin the 2009 season. Both Millson and Nickerson found the Calabogie long-track layout beautiful yet challenging.

The team worked hard to get Millson’s new Suzuki GSX-R1000 set up for the new long track configuration however; having a wet Friday morning practice ate away at valuable track time to refine the dry setup.

On Saturday, Nickerson turned some impressive laps around Calabogie Motorsports Park’s 5.05 KM long track during the morning Honda CBR125R Challenge practice session posting a 2:51.198. During Saturday afternoon’s qualifying Nickerson was able to improve upon his time to secure pole position for Sunday’s race with a 2:50.153.

Millson struggled to find the traction he needed to get the drive out of key corners of the track and managed to qualify 14th out of the 28 rider grid for Sundays feature race. Millson had hoped to be in a position to better his personal best of the sixth place finish he enjoyed in last year's season opener at Calabogie.

Following Saturday’s qualifying session series announcer Frank Wood interviewed Nickerson along side fellow Honda CBR125R Challenge guest rider Greg White and was later joined by Millson. SPEED TV’s motorcycle analyst and AMA pit reporter Greg White dropped by the RMP Racing paddock to tape a segment with Nickerson to air at a later date on SPEED.

After his qualifying session Nickerson and his father took a tour of the Turn 2 Sportbike School’s new home at Calabogie Motorsports Park. At the end of the day Turn 2’s owner George Budacki dropped by the paddock to spend some time with the entire team. Budacki has been a supporter of Millson since 2006 and continues the tradition of assisting with the development of up-and-coming riders through his support of Nickerson.

Sunday morning at Calabogie was picture perfect. Clear blue skies, sunshine and a light breeze greeted spectators as they began to file in for a great day of racing.

The Honda CBR125R Challenge race was first up on the schedule for the RMP Racing team. Nickerson on the number 661 Inside Motorcycles supported machine started from the pole.

After a great start Nickerson, Bodhi Edie and Karl Robitaille began to break away from the rest of the pack. Maximizing the draft, Nickerson, Edie and Robitaille traded positions numerous times throughout each lap. The battle for the win went all the way to the finish line where it briefly appeared that it was too close to call. Upon review of the timing and scoring system the series officials confirmed that Nickerson had his first win of the season.

Rolling out on to the grid for Sunday’s Superbike feature race, Millson was relaxed and eager for the first race of the season.
Millson fell back slightly on the start but worked past several riders in the opening laps. Just prior to the half way point of the race Millson began to battle with a group of riders for eleventh.

Millson entered the carousel pushing hard to close the gap when he lost traction and started to slide. The front end eventually broke lose sending Millson to the ground and he slid off the track.

“We were having a good race just outside of the top ten and I guess I just got a little eager and ran in a little too deep,” said Millson “The rear started to come around, I thought I could save it but as I got things back in line I lost the front and that was it …our race was over.”

Millson was uninjured and there was minor damage to the bike. The right side handle bar was broken, preventing him from rejoining the race.

“It’s not the way we wanted to start the season,” said Millson. “Mark, Blaine and Accelerated Technologies John Sharrard worked so hard to get the bike race ready. Race Tech’s Lenny Albin also flew in from Infineon Raceway to help set up the new Race Tech forks”.

“Overall it was a great weekend for the team” said Millson. “Steven was very impressive and we all had a great time at the track. It was nice to reconnect with some of our fellow racers, sponsors, and meet a lot of new people”

RMP Racing is grateful for the support from team sponsors; Inside Motorcycles, Infinet Designs, Turn 2 Sportbike School, Essential Image, MotoConcepts and CRC Racewear. Additionally Ross Millson would like to thank; Tri-City Cycle and Sport (Suzuki), Zox Helmets, Motovan, Race Tech, Vortex, Hindle and Niagara Powersports.

Up next for RMP Racing is Round 2 of the Parts Canada Superbike Championship at Circuit ICAR near Montreal June 12-14.
For additional information about RMP Racing's Ross Millson and Steven Nickerson or to learn more about marketing opportunities with the team please visit www.rmpracing.ca.

There's a new scooter coming to Canada. The Honda SH150i is set to arrive in Canadian motorcycle dealerships in June. Honda has created a Canadian micro-site for the SH150i too.

No price indicated on the site yet but several US sites are projecting a MSRP of approximately $4,500 USD. That's sure speculation at this point. Only time will tell.

Update - May 27/09: MSRP is set at $4,999

The SH150i is already a big seller for Honda in Europe, and has been for years.

Some key features:

- 153cc, liquid cooled highway capable 4-stroke engine
- Fuel injected with digital electronic ignition ensures excellent fuel economy and reduced emissions.
- Big 16" wheels
- Standard 35 litre top box
- Wide and low padded seat for rider and passenger comfort
- Fan cooled radiator
- Combined braking system which combines the front and rear brake for better stopping control.
- Honda V-Matic automatic transmission (no shifting required).

Honda also claims the scooter features low-to-midrange torque that provides quick take-offs and sporty acceleration, even with a passenger.

Honda SH150i Canadian micro-site

Durham Honda Powerhouse in Whitby, Ontario is having a customer appreciation say on May 30th, 2009. They'll be having a charity ride for the "Ride for Dad" and a BBQ as well.  They're going to have gifts, and prizes, and a live DJ.Here's a little more information - click the image for a larger version:

Clarington Honda in Bowmanville, Ontario is having a big party on Wednesday, June 3rd (5:30 pm to 7 pm). It's a live freestyle and motocross extravaganza!

Okay, we made up the extravaganza part, but there's going to be a lot of action and some impressive skills on display. Best of all - admission is free, there will also be a BBQ and refreshments on site too.

Here's a shot of the event banner. Click the image for a larger version.


For more details contact:

Clarington Honda
29 Spicer Square, Bowmanville ON
Tel.: 1 866 950-9954

We're a little late with this news but Honda Motor Europe's president Shigeru Takagi issued a news release on April 2/09 stating,

"I am happy to be able to confirm today that there is a link to more than one model (referring to the V4 concept) in our future model lineup. The first production machine related to the V4 Concept Bike will reach the market in the first half of 2010. And there will be more to come."

Doubt you'll see the hubless wheel design on the new model. More likely you'll see a larger displacement sport-tourer, in the vein of the current VFR 800. Sportbike inspired styling and handling with slightly more upright ergonomics and less emphasis on lightness at all costs. A sportbike for gentleman if you will, gentleman who still like to go very fast but be comfortable while doing it!

Bring it on Honda! VFR fans have been waiting for this, for long time I might add.

Here's a video clip Honda posted with the news. It runs 3 minutes and 37 seconds and according to Honda "takes us through 30 years of racing with Honda V4 racing motor cycle engines. And then gives us a promising look at the future."

Honda Motor Co. has released its first quarter results and forecast a small profit for 2009. Plummeting car sales have meant substantial cuts. Even the mighty Honda is not immune to the economic conditions further exacerbated by a strong yen. Japan's No 2 automaker indicates their (profitable) motorcycle sales are helping them to fare better than many other automobile makers though.

Business is still pretty good all things considered but to say they are booming would definitely not be the case. Honda saw sales of its motorcycles fall 15.5% in the fourth quarter of 2008 compared the same period the prior year. The motorcycle manufacturer was hit hardest in its own market with the number of units sold in Japan falling nearly 23% over the year before. Although the year to date profits are down 77 percent they're still in much better shape than say, Toyota - who are predicting a big loss this year.

For the financial year to March 31, 2010, Honda expects both an operating profit and a pretax profit of 10-billion yen ($104-million U.S.), narrowly escaping its first loss since the company was founded in 1948, which analysts had expected.

Unlike other major automakers, Honda also has its motorcycle division, which contributed 60 per cent of Honda's operating profit last year.

“Having the motorcycle business is a big strength for us,” Mr. Kondo said.

Honda expects its global car sales to fall 8.7 per cent to 3.21 million vehicles this financial year and motorcycle sales to fall 15 per cent to about 8.6 million.

Honda Motor Co. Japan and GS YUASA Corporation signed an agreement on March 24th/09 to establish a joint venture company with the purpose of manufacturing, selling, and conducting research and development for high performance lithium-ion batteries for application in hybrid vehicles.

On the surface this may not seem overly interesting but if you've bought a motorcycle battery lately you may recognize the GS YUASA Corporation name. They're a very large player in the supply of motorcycle batteries. So this joint venture may also help to give Honda an inside track on development of batteries for motorcycles too. Honda already have plans to release an electric motorcycle by 2010.

The new company, Blue Energy Co., Ltd., is scheduled to be establish April 1, 2009. The capital ratio split with be 51% GS Yuasa Power Supply Ltd which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of GS Yuasa Corporation) and 49% to Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

Harley-Davidson (nyse: HOG) stock took northward ride last Friday on very questionable rumors that Honda (nyse: HMC) was ready to purchase the motorcycle maker.

Shares of Harley-Davidson initially rose 6.3% but settled to a 4.2% gain, or $2.51, to $62.63 by noon trading.

Chances are quite slim that Honda would follow through with a purchase of Harley Davidson because of regulatory hurdles. It's reported that if Honda and Harley combined, the union would control 65% of the U.S. motorcycle market. The next leading competitor, would be Yamaha at a distant 16%.

The US Federal Trade Commission would almost certainly put the kibosh on that deal, seeing as its has squashed other, more mundane mergers in the past.

Analysts have been quoted as saying it doesn't seem a great fit - Harley the American icon of motorcycles and a large Japanese corporation. Brilliant deduction!

Honda-Davidson anybody?

Got a 5th generation (98-01) Honda VFR kicking around? Maybe you're getting a little bored with the stock 106 or so ponies but still love the handling, styling, and comfort of the "gentleman's express." Honda hasn't come out with the long anticipated and rumored 1000cc VFR so you're options have been limited. Until now that is...

Thanks to a Dan at A&A Performance in Pennsylvania you've now got an option. He custom fabricated a supercharger for his own VFR and was so pleased with the results and got so much attention on the VFRD discussion board website that he's packaged up a complete kit for purchase.

The kit has been dyno tested to increase horsepower over 50 percent! The dyno runs show near 160 horsepower on 93 octane pump fuel. The price of this insanity is $5495 USD + shipping.

Efforts are already afoot to produce kits for the newer 6th generation Honda, the ZX-10R, and GSX-R1000.

For full details check out the company website - A&A Performance. Here's a little quote from A&A about the kit:

"It has been 2 years in the making, but it's now official: A&A Performance proudly introduces our supercharger kit for 5th-gen VFR800s.

Utilizing a C15-60 Rotrex supercharger, this kit allows you to bolt on 50-60% more to your VFR, all while running pump gas and hiding behind your stock fairings. Only the best materials and construction methods are used to bring the kit to life, ensuring great performance for years to come."

There's quite a bit of detail in this YouTube clip. Including a dyno run so you can hear what this beast sounds like. Wow! Not cheap by any means but that's some serious performance.

The huge spike in gas prices last summer got many people thinking about motorcycles and scooters as a means to improve fuel economy and reduce their transportation costs.

This apparently got the people at Consumer Reports to do some motorcycle testing for the first time since 1981. Consumer Reports has long been considered a trusted reviewer of just about everything - from digital cameras to cars. So, having them report on motorcycles and scooters will likley help some folks in making the purchase decision.

The group of machines tested wasn't really that large - just 8 in total. They concentrated on small-displacement models that featured excellent fuel economy. Three 50cc scooters, three scooters in the 125cc to 150cc range, and two 250cc entry-level motorcycles were selected for testing.

The Vespa LX scooter managed to take top honors in the smallest 50cc class but performed well against the slightly larger 150cc competitors too where it tied with the KYMCO People for the win.

In the 250cc class, the Kawasaki Ninja won out over the Honda Rebel to earn the recommendation.

Full results can be seen online now if you're a subscriber and the article will be published in the March 2009 issue of Consumer Reports.

Press Release follows:

PRESS RELEASE:

CONSUMER REPORTS TESTS scooters and motorcycles FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE 1981

Rising consumer interest in transportation alternatives spurred CR's Auto Test Center to test two-wheelers

YONKERS, NY ― Fueled by painfully high gasoline prices, 2008 saw many consumers looking for new alternatives to big-bucks fill-ups at the pump. With rising interest in lower-priced two-wheelers that sip rather than guzzle gas and thousands of new riders on the road, Consumer Reports has tested small motor scooters and motorcycles for the first time since 1981.

Consumer Reports tested a total of eight fuel sipping, small-displacement models: three 50cc scooters, three scooters in the 125cc to 150cc range, and two 250cc entry-level motorcycles, all priced between about $1,000 to $4,400 and delivering as much as 60 to 100 mpg fuel economy, at a steady cruise. Among the scooters, models from Italy's Vespa and Taiwan's Kymco achieved the highest overall ratings, with the Vespa LX 50 leading the 50cc category, and the Vespa LX 150 and Kymco People 150 sharing best overall ratings in the bigger engine class. Among the motorcycles, the Kawasaki Ninja 250, an entry-level sports bike, achieved a higher score than the Honda Rebel.

"When fuel prices crossed the $4.00 per gallon mark, some consumers shifted gears and two wheels became a cost-saving alternative," said Rik Paul, automotive editor, Consumer Reports. "And, despite current low gas costs, interest in scooters and motorcycles may continue to increase, especially in urban areas where parking space is at a premium.

The full report on motorcycles and scooters is available in the March 2009 issue of Consumer Reports, on sale February 3 and online at www.ConsumerReports.org

With their 35 to 40 mph top speed, 50cc scooters may suffice for short trips in suburban and city riding. Of the three models tested, the Vespa LX 50's smooth four-stroke engine, good ergonomics, controlled ride quality, and solid fit and finish made it the favorite choice, but it is very slow. Testers found that "you get what you pay for," with the inexpensive $995 Motorino Allegra getting the worst marks for vibration, harsh ride, and subpar fit.

In the 125cc to 150 cc category, the tested models' top speed range of 55 mph to 57 mph made them much better suited for keeping up with traffic but still not recommended for freeway or interstate use. The 150cc Kymco People and Vespa LX both proved well-rounded, easy-to-ride machines, with responsive handling and easy maneuverability. With its big 16-inch wheels, the Kymco offered superior stability and off-the-line acceleration while the Vespa excelled in ride quality, roominess, under-seat storage, and build quality. The third model tested, the Yamaha Vino 125 could not match the other two models' ride experience. While offering the lowest price point at $2,899, the Yamaha's harsh ride and sluggish engine detracted from its cost benefit.

Of the two 250cc motorcycles tested, the Kawasaki Ninja 250 was the clear winner, outperforming the Honda Rebel 250 in most categories. With its agile handling, and slick-shifting 6-speed manual transmission, this entry-level motorcycle is an excellent choice for individuals who want to combine low cost of ownership with a more performance-focused ride experience. Agile, stable, and refined yet brisk, the Ninja also had the best braking performance of any model tested. Compared with scooters, which have easy-shifting automatic transmissions, step-through designs, and handy under-seat storage capacity, motorcycles, however, are less practical and their manual transmissions and higher performance require more skill to handle well.

Like Consumer Reports in-depth auto testing process, scooters and motorcycles were subjected to an extensive sequence of standardized tests to determine their performance in categories such as acceleration, braking, fuel economy, noise/vibration, top speed and comfort. To evaluate ride, handling and everyday liveability features, the staff designed a new 5.2 mile testing route, including stops and starts on hills and a variety of tight turns, utilizing the Auto Test Center's multi-surface, multi-grade facility. New testing procedures were also added to accurately evaluate the machines' response to common urban riding situations, such as the ability to quickly and safely accelerate through an intersection.

"Scooters and motorcycles can be a fun, fuel-sipping alternative for everyday commuting and they are certainly an enjoyable recreational choice, but consumers also need to consider their limitations," said Paul. "Proper protective gear is essential, especially in inclement weather. Even a moderate 40-degrees F temperature can feel like sub-freezing wind chill to a rider." And, says Paul, professional instruction to finetune defensive riding skills, such as a course offered through the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, is a must for new riders as risk of serious injury is significantly higher than in a car or truck.

With more than 7 million print and online subscribers, Consumer Reports is one of the most trusted sources for information and advice on consumer products and services. It conducts the most comprehensive auto-test program of any U.S. publication or Web site; the magazine's auto experts have decades of experience in driving, testing, and reporting on cars. To become a subscriber, consumers can call 1-800-234-1645. Information and articles from the magazine can be accessed online at www.ConsumerReports.org.

Well - there's not much chance of this one coming to Canada but it's still pretty cool so we'll tell you a little bit about it.

Honda is relaunching the very popular "Monkey bike." It's a little bike with an almost cult like following. Due to tougher emissions regulations nowadays this revamped monkey features fuel injection. Yep!

If you're perhaps 40 or under you may be asking yourself, why are they called "monkey bikes?" - Apparently it's a name given to various small, low-powered motorcycles first made popular by Honda in the 1970s. This style of bike typically has a very low seat height so when you're riding them your're a bit crouched over - making you look somewhat like a squatting monkey. That's how the story goes anyway.

This little Honda Monkey features a 50cc four-stroke, single cylinder - packing a 3.4bhp punch! Impressed? Well, try this - it'll get a cool 252 mpg when traveling at a constant 30 km/hr.

These revamped Honda's look to have classic styling with a few little updates for modern times. It'll be available in 'standard' trim or in 'limited edition' guise (but not here in Canada remember!). The limited edition gets a tartan seat cover and a bit of extra chrome.

I can see why these would be popular. Heading to the cottage? - throw one of these in the trunk for some fun and leisurely zipping around!

Call me crazy. I want one!

Well - the email has arrived from Honda PowerSports and the official pictures are there on a site they've given. they've also included plenty of details about the bike as well.



Some of the details:

- 1312cc, 52 degree V-twin engine with a single-pin crankshaft and dual balancers.
- Fuel injected
- shaft final drive
- single shock rear suspension with aluminum swingarm
- Raked-out front and condensed, hard-tail look to the rear end (71.2 inches between the axles)
- 200 series rear tire and a slim 21-inch front wrapped around alloy wheels.
- newly designed exhaust and new camshafts which add to the unique V-twin sound and power-pulse sensations
- Single powerful 336-diameter front disc and a 296mm disc in the rear. ABS will be available.
- Super low 26.7 inch seat height
- Full line of genuine Honda accessories.

The Fury, which is the forthcoming factory chopper from Honda, was set to be unveiled tomorrow at a motorcycle show in New York. Honda had set up a special site to notify people about the pictures, and done some interesting viral advertising on YouTube that showed a baby getting a tattoo in one of them.

But the news has broken before the emails have been sent and the official unveiling tomorrow. Hell For Leather Magazine has managed to scoop a photo from the press kit. So this shot is courtesy of them.

The bike looks stylish and features a 1312cc fuel injected and liquid cooled V-twin engine. It's a seriously long bike at 1808.5 mm, or just a shade under 6 feet. You'll probably not want to do the figure eight's of your driving test on this machine!

It's got a fat 20 series rear tire. The back end also gets a hidden mono-shock. Up front you've got a big rake, a custom looking 21" wheel, and a radiator hidden away within the front frame rails.

Unlike Harley Davidson, Honda decided to go with a shaft drive rather than the typical belt drive.

Honda's coming a little late to the chopper party (by a few years!) but it looks like the Fury is a pretty good effort.

Honda have launched a teaser website with a countdown timer that marks the unveiling of their new chopper. The new chopper, dubbed the Honda Fury will be shown on January 16th in New York.

If you can't make it to New York though you can sign up via the Honda teaser website to get more information as soon as it's released.

No pictures of the bike are currently available on the teaser site. We had posted a patent photo and the picture initially shown to dealers in past news articles.

Some patent images have surfaced courtesy of Spanish magazine Solo Moto Treinta,that are suggested to be a sign the Honda Fury (the chopper coming from Honda) will not feature an electric drive system or a CVT transmission.

It appears to be what is a fairly conventional chopper style motorcycle. It's rumored that the Honda Fury will be officially unveiled at the New York round of the International Motorcycle Show on January 16th.

It'll likely feature a hidden underseat radiator, a hidden rear shock, and a fuel injected v-twin engine somewhere in the neighborhood of 1300cc.

Honda President, Takeo Fukui, announced on Thursday that the Japanese company will offer a battery powered motorcycle in two years time.

The announcement was made during a speech on the summary of business for 2008. Fukui stressed the importance of motorcycles for Honda's global business in light of the tough economic times across the world.

Fukui said: “Honda is currently developing a battery-powered electric motorcycle which emits no CO2 during operation, because the characteristics of a battery can be better utilized in the area of motorcycles, which are often used for short distance travel.

“Honda is aiming to introduce this electric motorcycle to the market about two years from now.

He added: “Honda’s toughness in meeting changes in the business environment comes from the global business foundation built around the three axes of motorcycles, automobiles and power products.

“History shows that motorcycles remain strong in a difficult market environment and have always supported Honda in difficult times. People showed renewed interest in the value of motorcycles which consume less fuel for commuting purposes as well as for their easy-to-own/easy-to-use efficiency.

“In the newly emerging countries in regions such as Asia and South America where motorcycles are being used for everyday transportation, long-term and steady market growth is expected despite some external factors such as changes in economic conditions.”

The Toronto Motorcycle show is this coming weekend.

We can't possibly tell you everything that's going on at the show, with upwards of 150 exhibitors you can bet there will be something that should interest just about every motorcycle enthusiast. But as a bit of a sneak peak, here's what the big names are scheduled to display:

BMW Motorrad Canada will be bringing the new K1300S, R and GT along with the F800GS that has finally started to show up at dealers (much to the delight of those who've already put deposits on them and anticipated a September arrival). Riders that like the dirt might be interested in seeing the G450X Enduro. Those of you who are more World Superbike than off-road adventure will surely enjoy BMW's, still under development, S1000RR, BMW's World Superbike entry that won't hit the racetrack in 2009.

Ducati will have the new 1198S Superbike, the Monster M1100S, and may also bring along a Desmosedici Moto GP replica streetbike with a retail price in the 80 thousand
range.

Honda should have the 2009 DN01, a $17,499, 680cc tourer with an automatic transmission. Not to disappoint, the CBR600 and CBR1000 sportbikes should be there as well showing off the new optional anti-lock brakes.

Kawasaki will show off the Vulcan 1700 series and the new ZX-6R 600 sportbike that is said to be an almost unbelievable 10 kg lighter than last year's model. Canadian Superbike and Pro 600 Champion Jordan Szoke and teammate Alex Welsh will be there too doing some autograph sessions.

KTM has said said they'll be showing off the 1190 RC8 Superbike and their single-cylinder 690 Enduro; the most powerful single cylinder on the market.

Deeley Harley-Davidson will have the 2009 touring models and Tri-Glide trike and the previously Euro-spec only XR1200 Sportster. You'll get a look at the Police Edition of the Buell Ulysses too.

Suzuki will be bringing the all new GSX-R1000, new Boulevard M90, and the SFV650 (or Gladius)- a naked styled bike using the famed SV650 v-twin engine. Suzuki will also show off some Canadian only models such as a 650 and 1000 V-Strom that come with locking hard bags and topbox as standard equipment.

Yamaha will have the new V Max, the 200-horsepower rocket!

There's some Internet rumors going around that Honda hosted an online US dealer event this past Monday and confirmed a new model - the Honda "Fury."

It's reportedly a 1300cc raked chopper that will be introduced to the US market next spring as an early '10 model.

Word is that Dealers will receive more information later in December. The pictures sent to dealers had the bottom-half of the bike intentionally blurred. Folks are speculating what this means of course and most of the buzz is that that the bike might be a hybrid with a gas and electric motor.

If they do produce an electric/gas hybrid system how long will it be before Honda puts the technology into their Goldwing? It might be a useful addition to that platform.

Honda Motor Company is recalling about 13,000 of its off-road competition motorcycles. A weld on the right side of the swing arm can fail, which may cause the rider to lose control and crash.

Honda has received two reports of swing arms cracking but no injuries have been reported.

The recall involves model year 2007-2008 Honda CRF150R/RB motocross competition motorcycles.

The items were sold at Honda motorcycle dealers nationwide from September 2006 through October 2008 for between $4,300 and $4,400.

Consumers should immediately stop using these recalled off-road motorcycles and contact any Honda dealer to schedule a free repair. Registered owners of the recalled motorcycles are being sent a direct notice.

For additional information, contact Honda toll-free at (866) 784-1870 between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. Pacific Monday through Friday, or visit Honda here.

Honda has announced that they'll be building a production model that's based on the V4 concept. It'll hit the showroom floor in "the first half of 2010."

The concept is a bit wild - with hubless wheels and a strange looking headlight that looks like a big X. It's not likely that we'll get hubless wheels but many have been looking for a more powerful and lighter successor to the VFR 800. This bike is supposedly biased towards rider comfort and on-road ability rather than racetrack success.

Maybe this is what those folks have been waiting for.

Here's what Honda had to say:

"The exciting news of the V4 production model is the result of overwhelming response from customers, media and motorcycle dealers across Europe following the debut of the V4 Concept Model at last month's Intermot show, where the world's largest motorcycle manufacturer chose 'New Beginnings' as its theme to celebrate Honda's 60th anniversary as a company, 50th anniversary of racing and 30th anniversary of the Honda's iconic V4 engine configuration.

"Building on this theme at this week's Milan Show, Honda highlighted the next stage of the V4 story and looked forward to the next 60 years of motorcycle production, with V4 technology forming a part of the marque's future direction in the coming few years, starting in just 18 months time with the introduction of the first V4 mass-production model in the first half of 2010."

World's biggest motorcycle exhibition will open its doors on November 4th at Milan, Italy to an ever increasing public.

This year at Milan's EICMA exhibition, we should see several new motorcycles and scooters - probably not as many as last year when it seemed everybody had something new.

But like at Intermot show in Germany, there will no doubt be a lot of Asian manufactured electric motorcycles and scooters showcased.

The main conference day is Tuesday, with 2 conferences called on Monday and one on Wednesday.

Several companies have announced that they're be doing a press conference at the show. Which would generally indicate that they have something interesting they want to make public - but time will tell. Here's the list of companies:

Yamaha - Yamaha have organized a conference the day before the show opens (Monday), and it's held off-site.

Ducati - They're having their press conference the day before the show opens. Fighter model perhaps?

Honda - Honda starts off the press conference heavy Tuesday

New Max - New Max have several brands of clothing and helmets. Haven't heard of these folks.

BMW - Having already announced three new K series models at Intermot it's hard to say what they'll have to say.

Husqvarna - These guys immediately follow BMW (they're a subsidiary of BMW) and both are scheduled for 30 minutes a piece.

Leo Vince - Might be a good guess that the Italian Leo Vince will probably be presenting new exhausts.

KTM - KTM have two conference, one on Tuesday and one on Wednesday (together with Zadi - an Italian parts manufacturer). Rumors are that they may show an electric motorcycle.

Aprilia - The Piaggio group's Aprilia have 15 minutes so not too much time for big announcements here.

Moto Guzzi - Piaggio group's Guzzi have 10 minutes

Gilera - Piaggio group's Gilera have 15 minutes

Vespa - Piaggio group's Vespa have 15 minutes

Piaggio - Piaggio themselves took 15 minutes

Scarabeo - Piaggio group's Scarabeo have 10 minutes

Derbi - Piaggio group's Derbi have 10 minutes

Kymco - Scooter manufacturer Kymko rarely call for conferences so there will likely be something new out of this Taiwanese company.

Nipponia - Never heard of these guys.

Suzuki - Suzuki have 30 minutes but announced new bikes at Intermot so we're not sure what to expect here.

Metzeler - Tire manufacturer Metzeler are closing the day with a press conference

In its efforts to improve safety for everyone, Honda has developed a motorcycle to car communication system.

The system generates warnings to riders and drivers of other vehicles by continuously exchanging positioning data from satellite GPS sources. This is particularly relevant as road users approach intersections, alerting them to other vehicles that are potentially on a collision course.

The technology is being demonstrated for the first time in Europe at the CAR 2 CAR Communication Consortium event taking place at the Opel Test Track in Dudenhofen, Germany, from 22-23 October 2008.

European research data has shown that the majority of accidents involving a motorcycle are caused by perception failures and this system will reduce these failures.

According to Honda:

Both a visual and an audible warning are provided in safety critical situations. The visual HMI is located on the upper edge of the motorcycle dashboard, as close as possible to the line of vision, enabling the rider to spot the information and warnings easily without actually having to take his eyes off the road. The intensity, colour and the position of the lights provide intuitive information on the seriousness and the location of the danger ahead. To augment the riders' recognition and further specify the hazard ahead, an acoustic warning by means of spoken text is given in the helmet, which is connected by means of Bluetooth® communication link with the on-board system.

It's an interesting concept and one that would likely be useful for some riders. Riders in the Dakar rally have a system that warns them of fast moving vehicles approaching them from behind. Course they're often going flat out through the desert and would have no idea when a vehicle is behind them. In an urban environment I'm not sure how this system would filter out regular traffic. Surely the big brained folks who came up with the system have a way around this though.

Pretty soon Honda Goldwings are going to do the driving for you!

One of the largest Honda powersport dealerships in Canada, Blackfoot Motorcycle Ltd, and Honda dealer since 1970, is suing Honda Canada for 1.5 million.

The Calgary based dealership launched a lawsuit against Honda Canada Inc. over the auto maker's Powerhouse concept that brings together the sales of cars, motorcycles, outboard engines, and other products under a single roof.

Blackfoot Motorcycle Ltd., which began selling Honda motorcycles and other equipment in 1970, is suing Honda for $1.5-million after its dealership agreement with the company was terminated at the end of 2007.

The relationship began to sour in 2006 when Blackfoot alleged in filings with the Alberta Court of Queen's Bench that Honda began urging the motorcycle dealership to help it sell off excess inventory that Honda had ordered. Blackfoot resisted because they thought they would stand to lose $100,000 through the program.

During negotiations, Blackfoot alleges it became aware that Honda was considering a strategy change that would involve its car dealers taking on the sale of the other equipment as part of the "Honda Powerhouse" concept.

Around the same time, Blackfoot said, it was told by Jerry Chenkin, then a Honda vice-president responsible for the company's relationship with the dealership, that its dealer agreement would be renewed if it agreed to take on the excess inventory.

But Blackfoot claims that Honda had already decided to cancel the dealer agreement even before Blackfoot agreed to take on the excess inventory on July 13, 2006. Five days later, Blackfoot said, it got a letter dated July 14 terminating the dealer agreement as of Dec. 31, 2007.

The allegations have not been proved in court.

In a statement of defence, Honda said the case should be dismissed.

"Honda denies that Honda's strategy included treating Blackfoot any differently than any other Honda dealers," the auto company said.

Just like the Honda Varadero, it looks like when the DN-01 does arrive in Canada it will only be available at Honda Powerhouse dealers, and in limited numbers (also like the Honda Varadero).

It will reportedly be available in the the spring. No pricing information is available from Honda just yet but more information on that should be released some time in October.

For details on where your nearest Power House dealership is in Canada you can check out the following link on the last page:

http://www.honda.ca/MCPE/_Global/files/exclusiveBrochure_EN4.pdf

The DN-01 was first shown as a concept bike at the 39th annual, 2005 Tokyo Motor Show. It looks like what you might imagine the offspring of a motorcycle and a scooter would be. Is it a motorcycle? Is it a sooter? Well, it features a motorcycle chassis, a 680cc liquid-cooled V-twin (claimed 61 hp), and comes with an automatic transmission.

Honda offers the following opinion of what the DN-01 is "The DN-01 was developed as a large sports cruiser materializing a new concept, equipped with distinctive HFT."

* HFT being a Human Friendly Transmission.

The transmission is a constantly variable type, which is typical of most scooters, but unlike most scooter system which rely on belts and pulleys, the DN-01 coverts power into hydraulic pressure, using it to vary gearing. The transmission is said to have two automatic modes and and a six-speed manual. In manual mode you get 6 pre-selected ratios that simulate a standard motorcycle gearbox.

Stopping power is provided by twin 296 mm discs up front that use a pair of 3-piston calipers. The front brakes are linked to the rear using Honda's combined brakes technology, add ABS in there too to help make things smooth even if the rider isn't.

The suspension is typical motorcycle variety with 41 mm conventional forks up front and a standard shock on a single sided swingarm at the rear. Sportbike radial tires are mounted to 17 inch wheels.

Seat height is pretty low at 691 mm (27.2"). Claimed curb weight is 270 kg (595 lbs). The DN-01 is available in red or black in the US but no word from Honda on what we'll get in Canada exactly.

Honda is set to launch a special site devoted to the long running Honda Super Cub.

After 50 years and 60 million units, the Honda Super Cub is about to get its own special website. There's a teaser site up already but the real one will go live on September 26th.

Get ready for it here (site incorporates some sound):

http://world.honda.com/SuperCub/main.html

Honda has a "Get More Summer Event" promotion on right now which includes discounts on some popular models and finance rates starting at 3.9%. So if you're looking to buy a Honda, now might be the time.

According to Honda the offer valid at participating Honda Motorcycle and ATV dealers in Canada only.

"This Offer is valid on selected new and not previously registered 2008 Honda motorcycles and ATVs. Manufacturer’s discounts off MSRP reductions are available only at participating dealers and vary from $140 to $3,000 for motorcycles.

Up to $3,000 available on Gold Wing GL1800 models. Financing is available on approved credit through Honda Financial Services. 3.9% APR available only on all 2008 Gold Wing GL1800, VT750, CBR600RR, CBR1000RR and VFR800A motorcycles."

Here's a link to the advertisement for the event that you can check out for more details:

http://www.honda.ca/MCPE/_Global/files/GetMoreSummer_EN.pdf

Two of the worlds largest motorcycle companies; Honda Motor Co. and Yamaha Motor Co., are said to be developing electric models to attract riders amid high gasoline prices.

"We are pushing forward with the development of electric two-wheeled vehicles, but we haven't decided on the price or the release date," said Honda spokeswoman Akemi Ando.

Honda plans to debut its electric bikes by 2011, while Yamaha will introduce its version in 2010, the Japanese business newspaper (Nikkei newspaper) reported.

Yamaha is working on an electric two-wheeler to market along the lines of their 50 cc scooter, said spokesman Takashi Kitagawa. Yamaha stopped selling its EC-02 and Passol-L electric scooters last September after a battery recall.

According to the report in the Nikkei, both firms will use lithium-ion batteries to power the vehicles.

No word of course on whether these will come to Canada but probably not initially. No doubt we'll see a day in a few years time when electric motorcycles will come though.

Stephane Perry of St-Jerome, Que is a Canadian motorcycle rider who believes in the usefulness of the airbag feature of his Honda Goldwing. He's the first Canadian to have some firsthand experience doing real world testing. He had a shiny new - one month old 2008 Goldwing that included the airbag. The airbag is in place of where the fuel tank is on many motorcycles.

Here's the situation - he was out riding his 2008 Honda Gold Wing travelling about 100 kilometers an hour along Highway 132 when a Hyundai Tuscon pulled onto the highway without looking... A crash was inevitable, and Stephane plowed into the front wheel/fender of the SUV at 80 to 90 km/h.

Normally this type of contact with a vehicle and a motorcycle would almost certainly be a very serious one for the motorcyclist; they surely would be launched from the bike; perhaps into traffic or into the vehicle they're hitting. That wasn't the case for Stephane and as he realized he was going to crash he hoped the airbag would work as claimed. Guess what - it did!

Instead of launching through the air and into danger, the entire experience was like "hitting a mattress," so relatively cushy was the impact, Perry says. It wasn't without drama though, "it was loud" he says. Like the many motorists who have experienced an airbag deployment in the confines of a sedan or SUV -- that the air bag inflating sounds like a shotgun going off right beside your eardrums.

"The sound was just terrible," says Perry, noting that it really was the only scary aspect of the entire experience other than those couple of nanoseconds when he realized he was going to T-bone a car at high speed.

After arriving to the scene and seeing the damage to motorcycle and the SUV, the police and emergency workers didn't believe he was the accident victim! Stephane was taking some pictures of what was left of his bike and the other accident debris when they arrived. He walked away with some bruises on his legs and a sore shoulder.

His precious Goldwing was barely a month old at the time, and now has to be replaced. Stephane says that the replacement must have an airbag - "A motorcycle without an air bag is not an option anymore," Perry says.

And he's the first Canadian to be able to say that from firsthand experience.

With the announcement of the Varadero and CBF1000 coming to Canada a few months back Honda launched a website - http://adventureawaits.ca/ It does have some good tips for those looking for some adventure.

One particularly good series of tips they offer is on packing for a trip. So, courtesy of Honda Canada here's a little list to consider when you're planning your next overnight (or longer) motorcycle adventure:

1. Download our recommended gear list.
2. Lay everything out on the floor before putting it in the bike. Then put half of it back. Less is usually more.
3. Keep all of your gear to a weight within the bike’s total recommended cargo capacity including passengers. And don’t forget to check the weight restrictions of your panniers too.
4. Put your clothes, toiletry kit, towel, chargers, and stuff to put in a tent or motel room in your one of your panniers. Once you unload, you can use it for groceries & supplies later.
5. Tools, first aid kit, tire pump, extra parts, oil, or the things you won’t need (hopefully) go in the other pannier.
6. Stuff you want to access on the ride can go in your tank bag. Things like camera, phone, leatherman, flashlight, camelbak, food, extra gloves, owners book, insurance & registration cards.
7. On long adventures, get a top box and store your camping gear inside.
8. Place similar items inside the same small bag. It’s a good idea for each bag to be a different colour. So, for example, shirts go in the light blue bag. This makes it easy to find the stuff you want.
9. Get a laundry bag for dirty stuff and a drying bag for stuff that is clean but wet.
10. Space counts. Use every centimeter, like inside shoes and socks.
11. Don’t stuff your jacket with stuff. You need to remain aerodynamic and flexible.

In a press release today, Honda has announced the world’s first electronically-controlled “Combined ABS” for Super Sport motorcycles, aimed at combining ABS and CBS systems into one system that applies the basic advantages of both, while specifically addressing the requirements of a Super Sport context.


The ABS equipped CBR is part of Honda's plan to add ABS to all its production models in the next two years - news that was made public in Honda's May 21st press release.

The CBR600RR is fitted with a completely new brake-by-wire Combined ABS system, which uses a computer control unit to ensure the correct balance of front and rear brake use and also to decide exactly when the ABS should cut in.

The system is designed to delay the ABS until until the last possible moment, to make it as unobtrusive as possible.

A May 21 press release posted on the Honda Worldwide website has outlined the Japanese marque's three-year plan. In a summary of a speech made by CEO Takeo Fukui, the document lists a number of significant changes to the firm's motorcycle production (Read the full release here).

Fukui first reiterated the importance of two-wheelers to the manufacturer's identity, with its success in motorcycle production leading to its thriving automotive achievements. Citing 13 million in annual sales, Honda celebrated the success of its Super Cub which has logged a "cumulative worldwide production of 60 million units (as of the end of April 2008)."

To meet its worldwide motorcycle demand in a more efficient manner, Honda will consolidate future production into its new Kumamoto Factory.

The new facility claims "20% improvement in workforce efficiency" and "reduces CO2 emissions by approximately 20% compared to the existing plant through various efforts including utilization of natural energy."

Fukui also outlined proposed technical improvements to the future Honda motorcycle lineup, which include:

Installation of PGM-FI (Honda's Programmed Fuel Injection) on "all Honda motorcycles sold in Thailand by the end of 2009" and "on most of its motorcycles worldwide by the end of 2010."

Introduction of a Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system on motorcycles which significantly improves fuel efficiency as well as electronically-controlled combined ABS (C-ABS), an advanced brake system which further improves stability while braking.

Installation of its "motorcycle airbag system and ABS (Antilock Brake System) on more products," with plans to incorporate "ABS in all 250cc or larger class models worldwide, except off-road models, by the end of 2010."

Honda also promises "to develop another model which creates a new motorcycle category and market as did the Super Cub." The marque later goes on to state that R&D will "be strengthened with a determination and passion to create the Super Cub of the next generation."

Those are some loftly goals considering the cumulative worldwide production numbers for the Super Cub.

The Honda Varadero is set to hit the showroom floor of your nearest Honda Powerhouse dealer in May. They're won't be many available though during this introductory year in Canada. Only 360 Varadero's will be up for grabs in Canada for 2008.

MSRP will be $13,999.

If it's the CBF 1000 that you want, there is going to be even fewer of them. Only 240 in fact. It'll arrive the same time as the Varadero and sporting an MSRP of $11,999.

The Honda Varadero pricing in Canada has been announced. It will have an MSRP of C$13,999!



Here's a quote from Honda:

The Varadero. If you're serious about adventure, then this is the bike for you.

Ready for Adventure Fuel Capacity - When you're out riding in uncharted territory, 25 litres of fuel capacity helps ensure that your adventure can be a long one. And a 4-litre warning reserve lets you know when it's time to start looking for fuel.

Best of both worlds - Because the best adventures aren't always found on smooth roads, the Varadero's 19-inch front and 17-inch back wheel combination gives you the ability to float over rough conditions without sacrificing performance when the road turns to pavement.

Combined ABS - When you're exploring remote locations in varying weather and route conditions, you'll have the confidence each time you grab a handful of brake, knowing that the twin front and single rear ABS disc brakes have got you covered. Having these brakes linked provides even better braking power, regardless of which brake lever you apply, when braking on less than perfect terrain

* Freight, PDI, taxes, license, insurance, and registration are not included. Retailer may sell for less. Retailer order/trade may be necessary. See your Honda Powerhouse dealer for full details. Always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing, and please respect the environment. Obey the law and read your owner's manual thoroughly. Honda recommends taking a motorcycle rider training course.

Looks like Honda is jumping on the recent popularity of the adventure style touring machines and have decided to bring the Varadero to Canada. It has been available in Europe for a number of years and is quite popular there. It's a BIG adventure tourer styled bike with a 1000 cc engine, well a fuel injected 996 cc V-Twin to be more exact. Its dry claimed weight is about 220 kg and has a seat height of 845 mm making it for tall and/or experienced riders.

Some other interesting facts - it's got a 25 liter fuel tank which should give it a respectable touring range; comes with ABS, and has a two position windscreen. Haven’t seen any pricing information yet but it should come in close to the Suzuki V-Strom 1000.

For a more in-depth review of the Honda Varadero read this article from our "Featured Articles" on the main page or do a search for "Varadero" in the Google site search box.