This week, Honda is showing visitors and the world public the new models in its product range for the 2011 season at the EICMA show in Milan (November 2 – 7). Against the backdrop of declining motorcycle sales in Europe, a substantial number of medium-sized and small-capacity new machines are being presented.

As the largest motor cycle manufacturer in the world, Honda endeavours to set new standards and inject stimulation in the market across all borders. This applies to Germany as well. Campaigns such as “Riding without a Licence”, “1000 euros Driving Licence Subsidy”, “Fun & Safety” training sessions for beginners and returning riders, or the Internet page “www.bikeschein.de” will be continued in 2011, above all to generate enthusiasm for motorised two-wheelers among younger people and to make access easier. The new models unveiled in Milan are intended to accompany these activities. Truly dynamic bikes, with a sporting design, that will also be attractively priced.

Interest centres right away on three new models in the sporting CBR series:

The new CBR250R is intended for beginners, those moving up from a 125cc, lovers of small-capacity bikes and riders of both sexes of petite stature, with its high-tech single-cylinder engine, modern chassis and an attractive design. The redesigned water-cooled single-cylinder uses DOHC four-valve technology to provide 27 HP, a balance shaft ensures extremely smooth running, and particularly low friction resulting from innovative technologies allows it to shine with modest fuel consumption. The modern chassis is graced by Pro-Link rear wheel suspension. In Germany, the CBR250R is the first in its class to be equipped with an easy-to-operate combined brake system and ABS anti-lock protection as standard. A state-of-the-art design sets this fully faired machine apart; a crisp exhaust system underscores the lines of the bodywork. As a lightweight exuding a sense of adulthood, the CBR250R beckons with a sporting ride, playfully light handling and easy operation.

Visually, the new CBR125R runs along the same lines. This light motorcycle, which should capture the hearts of holders of an A1 driving licence, replaces the beloved predecessor with the same model designation – with a completely new fairing and bodywork design, new cockpit, revised chassis, new exhaust, modified electronics for the fuel injection and wider tyres on new rims. This sporting one eighth-litre racer with the grown up look has what it takes without doubt to assume the role of the new darling of the public among young customers.

The model designation CBR600F will seem familiar to many motorcycle lovers; this middle-class all-rounder enjoyed great popularity from 1987 to 2006 in various stages of development. For 2011, Honda is returning to the original CBR roots with the CBR600F. This new model is based on the Hornet 600: Lively in-line four-cylinder, modern aluminium chassis and timelessly elegant full fairing conjure up a brawny allrounder with 102 hp that masters the balancing act between sport and everyday. This CBR600F covers the entire spectrum for street riders instead of placing most importance on supersport performance for track excursions like the RR model.

The brand new Honda Crossrunner will be a pleasant surprise to many. This new bike melds a relaxed appearance with riding enjoyment and diverse potential uses, including a passenger as well. The V4 engine, which is familiar from the VFR800, was carefully massaged for pulling power and smooth response; the VTEC valve gear was modified accordingly. The 102-hp Crossrunner is powerful, quiet-running, with its own character and, thanks to its well-balanced aluminium chassis with the single-sided swing arm, makes it easy to enjoy a fluid riding style. Yosuke Hasegawa, project manager responsible for Honda V4 motorcycles, had made a special trip from Japan for the world premiere: “The basic chassis from the VFR800 is sporting, the seating position upright and comfortable. So the Crossrunner excels with outstanding driveability and balanced handling. It's a pleasantly easy machine to ride and it offers a great deal of riding enjoyment.”

The new big SW-T600 scooter, which will be offered alongside the SW-T400 as a companion model, offers luxury and prestige. Interested buyers are cocooned in elegant design, a superior engine, lots of storage space, fully equipped cockpit, five-star seating comfort and exemplary ease of operation. The 50-hp engine at the heart of the SW-T600, a parallel twin, tops off the fun of riding in luxury. Power delivery, pulling power and elasticity make every trip a pleasure. Quiet mechanical operation is ensured by two balance shafts; clutch and transmission operate automatically; a belt drive ensures smooth power transfer to the rear wheel.

Two streetfighter models were given updates. Double-butted, gold anodised aluminum handlebars and a revised headlight fairing with a marker light consisting of seven LEDs will adorn the future 125-hp CB1000R. A new tricolour paint option underscores the sporting look in combination with gold rims. On the Hornet 600, the headlight fairing was given a facelift; headlights and a new instrument unit with a digital speedo are housed together there. The rear end of the stylish four-cylinder bike was slimmed down, the seat now has a passenger holding strap and recesses for grip under the seat. Attractive colours emphasize the sporting look of the Hornet 600, whose 102 horsepower will allow a dynamic pace.

The SH3001 scooter is also being shown in new bodywork. Jauntily styled aluminium rims and a leather-covered seat upgrade its appearance. The 27-hp single-cylinder engine was given new electronic controls and a dual-core catalytic converter to optimise combustion. In this way. it was possible to improve response and environmental friendliness and reduce petrol consumption. The SH300i has been modified under the new bodywork as well. A stiffer frame, optimally tuned springs and a Metzeler radial belt rear tyre contribute to a further improvement in handling and stability.

So that long-term Big-Bike adherents, as well as future motorcycle riders and new target groups, have something to dream about, Honda is additionally exhibiting a big enduro in Milan called the Crosstourer with the 1200-cc V4 engine, imposing enduro fairing, crash bars, spoked wheels, hard bags and a comfortable double seat. The powerful big enduro certainly looks ready for production but is not yet ready for series production in its final form and so it was shown with the designation “V4 Crosstourer Concept”. So it may be surmised that the V4 Crosstourer in this form or similar could come onto the market for the 2012 model year.
A second design concept is an eye-catcher in every sense of the word. The “new mid concept” brings up associations with a modern scooter, but it rolls on large 17-inch wheels, has a telescopic fork and a conventional Pro-Link swing arm with chain drive. The rather slim body with its imposing front end promises nimble riding characteristics plus good weather protection and ample leg room. There was no word on the engine, only that a dual clutch transmission is to be installed for maximum operating convenience, automatic gear change and acceleration without interruption of tractive power.
Whether, when and how a series production version will be developed from this scooter study remains to be seen. We will know more in a couple of years. Let's simply be patient. The model programme from Honda for 2011 with all its new models certainly turns out to be attractive even in this form.   close