Inexpensive and practical 125cc motorcycles are good for many reasons. They are inexpensive, light in weight, easy to understand, and great for learning to ride . the A1 subcategory in Russia , their popularity has decreased somewhat, but many beginners still buy budget 125 cc motorcycles, reasonably believing that they do not need a more impressive cubic capacity at the moment. Most of them switch to more powerful equipment after a season or two, but some continue to drive small-capacity vehicles for years, enjoying their efficiency. Indeed, light motorcycles up to 125cc are usually so inexpensive to maintain that it’s only cheaper to walk or ride a bike.
Practical characteristics of the Honda Steed 400
Considering the low gasoline consumption of 3.5 liters per hundred and an 11-liter tank, this motorcycle model can cover long distances without refueling.
Comfort complements reliability. It is extremely rare to see a Steed on the side of the road due to a breakdown. All its components and assemblies have extreme endurance. Therefore, it can be used for commuter trips, as well as long-distance travel. And in the city he behaves confidently and does not cause any trouble. Its weight is more medium than heavy. Therefore, it is not difficult to keep him at a traffic light. Water cooling prevents the engine from overheating even in a traffic jam. Despite the fact that the power characteristics cannot be called outstanding, this motorcycle can be easily ridden by two people. The Honda Steed 400 has all these, reviews of which you can read on the Internet.
Honda Gold Wing motorcycle series
The Honda Gold Wing motorcycle is the type of motorcycle that not every motorcycle enthusiast can afford to purchase. Its cost is very high and ranges from 25 thousand dollars. It should be noted that the Honda gold wing motorcycle can easily replace a car. Two people can easily go on a long journey on it.
The Honda gold wing motorcycle has the following characteristics:
- four-stroke engine with two valves per cylinder,
- engine displacement is 1832 cubic centimeters,
- engine power is 118 horsepower,
- The weight of the motorcycle is 413 kilograms.
The Honda Goldwing motorcycle belongs to the luxury category. No one will remain indifferent to its elegant design. Almost every motorcyclist in the world is attracted by the smoothness of its lines.
Specifications
Since there were many modifications of the motorcycle, it is difficult to judge its technical characteristics unambiguously. The 650 cc engine had 40 hp, the 720 cc engine had 45, but there is practically no information about the 825 cc engine. Otherwise, this model resembles any domestic boxer, heavy, massive and noticeably outdated at the time of release.
Engine
There were three of them, depending on the volume - 650, 720 and 825 cubic meters. see accordingly. The designers even experimented with liquid cooling! Although such examples are rare, and most of them have a 650 cc (40 hp) or 720 cc (45 hp) opposed 2-cylinder engine. Moreover, the first of them was borrowed from the old “opposites” IMZ with virtually no changes.
Transmission
IMZ engineers used a 4-speed gearbox, well known to all boxer drivers. But they did some experiments on her too! How else can you explain the fact that some Voyages have reverse gear and some do not?
Chassis and brakes
This part of the bike was least affected by the experiments, although the frame for it was developed from scratch. It was in this that they placed the engine, gearbox and everything else. Disc brakes were installed, but only on the front wheel, and at first there was only one disc, and then a second one was added to it. On the rear wheel, the drum brake was also replaced with a disc brake over time.
Electronics
The only way to understand Voyage's electronics is through practice. Apparently, during manual assembly, the factory employees were guided by some very arbitrary rules, so the wiring can vary noticeably on motorcycles from different batches. There is nothing complicated about it, but it doesn’t smell like some kind of standard.
Weight and dimensions
The Ural Voyage motorcycle not only looks heavy - it is really heavy. At least heavier than most other bikes from the Irbit plant. Its different modifications weigh from 260 to 280 kg, and its center of gravity is higher than that of its brothers in the model range, so it is not easy to move it. But its relatively compact size makes it easier to navigate city traffic jams.
Controllability
The bike has a pronounced tendency to roll over on its side, which is clearly felt when maneuvering at low speed. Sharp maneuvers are also not his thing, since it seems that the motorcycle obeys the driver’s actions extremely reluctantly. But it can boast of excellent directional stability, and even strong side winds do not bother it too much.
Fuel consumption
The brainchild of the Irbit plant, without hesitation, consumes 7-8 liters per 100 km. You can safely fill in any gasoline, especially since fuel with an octane rating below 92 is no longer possible. The gas tank capacity is 21 liters, so the bike has a decent power reserve.
"Sport"
The Honda company also has motorcycles in the “Sport” category, although it is represented by models smaller than the “Super Sport”.
These motorcycles also have a plastic body kit, but it is not as massive as that of the “Super Sport”; often this body kit only partially covers the engine . The handlebars of bikes in this category are already raised , but the driver still has a reclining position.
Honda's "Sport" category is represented by the "CBR500RA" and "CBR300RA" models. The 500RA model is equipped with a 2-cylinder in-line engine with liquid cooling. Its total volume is 471 cubic meters. see. Its power indicator is 48 hp. at 8,500 rpm.
The 300RA model received a 286 cc single-cylinder valve engine. cm., and a power of 30 hp. at the same 8,500 rpm.
????Removing and installing the cardan shaft
If there is a need to replace the cardan mechanism or repair its unit, it will need to be removed. The procedure is carried out in the following sequence:
- the mounting bolts are unscrewed from the flanges of the rear axle and the driveshaft;
- the shaft goes down;
- the bolts of the rubber coupling are unscrewed;
- the cardan moves away from the gearbox;
- The hanging mount is unscrewed.
The repaired or new mechanism is installed in the reverse order: suspension, coupling, bridge flanges.
The additional video mentions some more subtleties of removing and installing the cardan:
Patriot driveshaft | removal and installation | flange replacement
Watch this video on YouTube
The cardan in a car is a fairly durable mechanism, but it also needs periodic maintenance. The driver needs to be attentive to the appearance of extraneous sounds and vibrations. Ignoring these problems will result in the breakdown of important transmission components.
Advantages and disadvantages
The model turned out to be controversial, and therefore did not last long on the assembly line. Chopperists are a conservative audience, and they did not really appreciate the futuristic design of the Honda Valkyrie 1800, moreover, its price was quite high. Apparently, the time for such cruisers has not yet come.
Advantages
- No problems finding spare parts and consumables. Almost everything comes from the GL1800, which is incredibly popular both in Russia and in other countries.
- High power. The cruiser's technical characteristics are impressive, and thanks to its lighter weight than the Golda, it is very dynamic.
- Excellent reliability. If you take care of a motorcycle, it will run many hundreds of thousands of kilometers without bothering its owner.
- Gripping brakes, combined and with ABS. They stop this massive carcass surprisingly well.
Flaws
- High cost of maintenance. Original spare parts are expensive, as is tuning, the choice of which is small.
- Almost complete lack of wind protection. And installing a windshield immediately spoils the futuristic look of the Honda Valkyrie 1800.
- Low ground clearance, only 14.5 cm.
Competitors
The main competitors of the Honda XR250 are motorcycles from Kawasaki model KLR250, Suzuki DR250, Yamaha TT-R250 Open Enduro, Yamaha TT-R250 Raid and Suzuki Djebel 250.
Kawasaki KLR250
Yamaha TT-R250
Suzuki Djebel 250
Read other motorcycle reviews of the BMW S1000 RR: detailed review
Advantages and disadvantages
Baltmotors Dakar 250 is a unique motorcycle, unlike most other Chinese enduros. It costs much more than most of them, and has its own set of positive and negative qualities. But due to the rather high price, we will evaluate it to the fullest extent.
Advantages
- Fully adjustable suspension front and rear allowing you to fine tune it to suit your weight and riding style.
- Unification of many parts with European and Japanese models, which simplifies the process of finding spare parts and tuning.
- A powerful engine with excellent low-end traction and impressive cubic capacity for a 250 cc bike.
- Flexible and durable plastic that can withstand most of the falls that are inevitable in off-road riding.
- Standard crankcase protection protects the engine from impacts.
Flaws
- The need for frequent maintenance, especially when operating under high loads.
- The BM S2 Dakar 250 engine is not suitable for long driving with a uniform load, especially at high speed.
- Hard and slippery standard seat.
- Small range both on and off the pavement.
Advantages of the model range
The motorcycles presented today by Honda delight us with a variety of models. Fans of the Honda brand can purchase classics, universal bikes and super-sports, touring and cruisers, cross-country and small-capacity models.
The advantages of Japanese bikes include:
- motor power;
- efficiency;
- endurance.
High torque, especially at low engine speeds, ensures that the Honda motorcycle can handle difficult and sticky roads. Excellent maneuverability and automatic transmission allow you to maneuver, accelerate and stop the motorcycle while moving. We also note the low weight of bikes of this brand, low center of gravity, which ensures their stability and ease of operation.
????Failures of cardan shafts
Since this mechanism is in constant motion and experiences heavy loads, malfunctions occur quite often. Here are the most common ones.
There is oil on the cardan shaft
It is necessary to pay attention to the gearbox seals. They need to be replaced periodically due to normal wear and tear.
Elastic seals lose their properties over time and small gaps appear between the shaft and the oil seal. If a leak appears in the area of the sliding fork, you need to check the condition of the splines. If they have roughness, the fork must be replaced.
Shocks during loads on the cardan are caused by play in the connections. If free play appears in the crosspieces or in the bearing of the suspension mount, then these parts are replaced with new ones. Vibration may occur due to a loose bolted connection. If this problem occurs frequently, you should check whether a grower is installed between the nut and the mount. This washer prevents the nut from unscrewing due to constant vibration.
Creaks when pressing the accelerator pedal. The hinges need to be checked. Due to constant contact with moisture and dirt, the crosspiece may fail. If you ignore the squeaks, the crosspiece will jam and the hinge will break.
- The most common problem with a driveshaft is vibration. But before you start repairing the mechanism, you should first check the chassis. Impaired wheel balancing also leads to vibration at high speeds. If this effect disappears when switching to another gear, then the cardan has nothing to do with it. Here are the reasons why vibration can occur in the cardan: faulty balancing rings (corrosion or breakage);
- destruction of crosspieces;
- damage to the central or intermediate shaft (deformation of the pipe leads to imbalance of the mechanism);
- incorrectly assembled mechanism components.
Serial all-wheel drive motorcycles
The only company that produces such products is Rokon, and the company has been developing more and more new models since the 60s of the last century. If you wish, you can even buy them, although the meaning of such an event remains questionable - the equipment is very specific, and spare parts for it are extremely difficult to find. True, most Rokon models are completely devoid of front suspension, despite the fact that they are positioned as off-road motorcycles. The designers decided that massive low-pressure tires would be enough for shock absorption, and they began attempts to combine the front suspension on a front-wheel drive motorcycle relatively recently.
Chassis and brakes
The half-duplex steel frame has a nice design that can easily compete with high-end fashion motorcycles. The wheels are alloy, and the steering wheel is a comfortable instrument that perfectly matches the compact dimensions of the CB 125.
At the rear, the suspension is provided by a double shock absorber with a stroke of 70 mm. At the front there is a 31mm telescopic fork with 118mm of travel. The rear brakes are a drum, while the front is braked by a 276 mm disc along with a two-piston caliper.
Advantages
- No problems with the chain. If it tears, stains pants, tears clothes, constantly falls off, and so on, then a bicycle with a driveshaft does not have such problems.
- Less prone to breakage. This is due to the fact that the transmission in question has fewer rubbing and rotating parts.
- Durability. Again, due to the more reliable transmission design.
- A closed cardan drive requires less maintenance and adjustments. It is not affected by weather conditions and mechanical damage.
- Greater distance from the drive to the ground, which will allow you to take sharper turns and ride in mountainous terrain.
- Unlike a chain drive, you can change gears while standing still. For the first, it takes time for the chain to move from one star to another, while for the latter this time is reduced to a minimum.
Honda Fireblade motorcycle series
The debut of the motorcycle line took place in 2004. The first representative was the CBR 1000. Throughout the world, this motorcycle was known as the Fireblade. The new product replaces the legendary Honda CBR 600 RR.
The new Honda fireblade motorcycle had the following differences from its predecessor:
- the location of the fuel tank has changed, which was moved to the central part,
- In the new product, the size of the wheelbase has increased by 5 millimeters.
The fireblade uses a four-cylinder engine with a displacement of 998 cubic centimeters. The updated 2004 model features a six-speed manual transmission.
In 2006, the Honda Fiereblade motorcycle underwent some changes, which are presented:
- reducing the weight of the motorcycle,
- increasing engine power.
Useful tips
Remember that you should never ignore any signs of a cardan malfunction. If you do not heed this advice, you may experience the following consequences:
- If the cardan breaks, the vehicle body itself is damaged. Additionally, the cardan can damage the pipeline that runs along the bottom of the car.
- If constant vibrations are observed, this will negatively affect the rigidity of the suspension and body mounts. All threaded connections and fastenings of interior panels will also begin to loosen. The car will literally begin to fall apart while driving.
- All parts directly connected to the driveshaft will wear out faster and more intensely. This will significantly shorten their service life and require early replacement and expensive repairs.
It is unlikely that any car owner will consciously want to face such troubles.
But in many ways they can be avoided if you follow a few simple rules. All these recommendations are aimed at increasing the service life of the driveshaft.
If you are interested in preserving the HF resource, then you need to:
- try to minimize vehicle operation in rough terrain;
- do not accelerate sharply;
- move away smoothly;
- do not skid the car for a long time;
- do not skimp on quality spare parts;
- carry out diagnostic measures;
- If complex faults occur, contact qualified technicians.
The driveshaft is in many ways an important element of a vehicle, which, although considered an intermediate link, plays a key role in the operation of rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive vehicles.
The unit does not have an extremely complex structure, and its operating principle is clear to many. This allows you to independently solve problems that arise, detect faults in a timely manner and maintain the HF in working order for a long period of time, simply by following a few simple rules.
Advantages and disadvantages
Despite the fact that models with a cardan drive are significantly inferior in popularity to classic models, they still have a number of advantages.
- Bikes with a cardan have higher cross-country ability due to ground clearance (the clearance between the lowest point of the bike and the ground), which is why they can be used as bicycles for traveling over rough terrain and off-road. Such models do not catch curbs, and therefore are perfect for the city.
- Due to the absence of sprockets and chain, there is no risk of getting your pants dirty or tearing.
- Cardan transmissions are very reliable, rarely require maintenance and do not need adjustment. The first maintenance is carried out after 30 thousand kilometers, while on chain samples - every 2-5 thousand.
- The bike's transmission is reliably protected from dirt, water and sand - the scourge of all chain models.
- Due to the absence of many moving parts, the rear suspension is precise and balanced.
Among the disadvantages of bicycles with a cardan drive, they note their heavy weight: on average, such a bike weighs about 17 kg, which is 1-3 kg more than the weight of similar models with a chain drive
Attention is also drawn to the small number of gears (from 3 to 8), as well as the impossibility of self-repair in the event of a breakdown. More detailed studies revealed a loss in bike power compared to traditional models, which amounted to about 3%
If a cardan bicycle does not take part in bicycle racing, then this loss is not so significant. Many consumers also note the high cost of cardan samples, however, the costs are recouped over time by minimal investments in maintenance. Thus, we can conclude that in conditions that require high-speed qualities from a bike, the undisputed leader is a chain bike.
Appearance
The Honda CRF 250 is brighter than many of its classmates, largely due to the original red color of the frame. This is a rich, bright shade. White and light gray colors are present in small quantities. The appearance is typical for a motocross motorcycle: high saddle, huge ground clearance, straight handlebars.
If you look at the modifications of this bike, they can differ greatly in appearance, from the color to the shape of the wings. However, it is still clear that this is the same model. At least if you watch the driving video. But from the photo it is sometimes difficult to understand that this is the same bike, some of them are so different in appearance.
Honda Steed 400 technical characteristics and dynamics
The most striking characteristic of this bike was its “indestructibility”. This applies to both the engine and chassis. With simple care, a motorcycle can last for decades. Today on the roads you can find copies that were produced more than a quarter of a century ago. And if Steed had been produced earlier, then surely earlier bikes of this model would have crossed the landscape.
The list of technical characteristics of the Honda Steed 400 is as follows:
- engine type – V-shaped;
- cooling type – water;
- power unit volume – 400 cubic centimeters;
- number of cylinders – 2;
- number of valves - 2 for each cylinder;
- power – 31 horsepower;
- torque – 33 N.m.;
- number of transmission stages – 5;
- type of transmission of rotation to the wheel – chain;
- speed limit is 140 km/h.
Regarding dynamics, it is worth noting that up to 80 km/h this motorcycle is capable of very “vigorous” and high-torque acceleration. Above this, it suffocates, and the acceleration is sluggish. But on long runs this does not interfere at all.
The only negative is that you need to be careful when overtaking vehicles driving along the highway at speeds over eighty. This motorcycle will not be able to “shoot” on the move.
"Tourism" ("Tourist")
For lovers of motorcycle travel, Honda has prepared several models in the Touring category. Bikes in this category differ from sports bikes in providing a comfortable riding position for the driver and having larger fuel tanks . Often these motorcycles are additionally equipped with various types of equipment, such as radios and airbags.
One of the Honda models in the Touring category is the ST1300A Pan-European. This bike is equipped with a 4-cylinder V-shaped engine with a total volume of 1261 cc. see. Its power indicator is 126 hp.
Another Tourism bike, the GL1800 Bagger, is equipped with a more interesting power plant. This motorcycle has a 6-cylinder boxer engine with a combustion chamber volume of 1832 cc. cm. But this engine cannot be called super-powerful, because it develops 118 hp.
Another motorcycle, the GL1800 Gold Wind, is equipped with an engine with the same technical characteristics as the Bagger. The main difference between these motorcycles is their comfort.
Repair and maintenance of Honda Steed 400
We will not rewrite technical publications on repair and maintenance. This information is contained in specialized literature, as well as on websites dedicated to this topic. When we said that Steed is easy to care for, we meant that any part can be accessed without complete disassembly.
Almost all parts are made of metal. No plastic body kit. This is a pure chopper, only in the factory version. Everything here is accessible, reliable, simple, but at the same time fundamental. In order to independently service a Honda Steed, you do not need any special equipment or devices. This can be done in a regular garage.
The simplicity of the design and standardization of fastening units makes it possible to carry out repairs and maintenance directly on the road. In order not to be taken by surprise, it is enough to have a minimal, standard set of keys with you. We believe that simplicity and ease of maintenance are also characteristics of the Honda Steed 400.
Disadvantages of a cardan unit
Some people list its costly repairs as the first line; yes, the cardan itself is a rather expensive motorcycle component. Therefore, by the time it is completely worn out or broken, the cost of repairs will be exorbitant.
The massiveness of the driveshaft - we have already talked about this.
In addition to the total weight of the system, the difficulty is that the driveshaft cannot be installed on every engine. The horizontal structure of the power apparatus, especially boxer engines (hence BMW's success in this area), facilitates the installation of a cardan. But not every chain drive can be replaced with a cardan and vice versa. There are originals that replace the chain with a cardan, but this requires a lot of effort.
Loss of power. A controversial point in some respects. Although many argue that the cardan, due to its structure and weight, is much inferior in transmitting power to the same chain or belt. I think that if we evaluate motorcycle models as a whole, and not just one component, then this point can be reconsidered. Will a chain transfer power from the same engine on a heavy motorcycle more efficiently than a driveshaft? Many people consider a chain to be better than a cardan, forgetting that they have an advantage in weight or aerodynamics.
Conclusion: there is no point in arguing, because the type of power transmission is good for each specific motorcycle within the model developed by the engineers. But a driveshaft will always be beneficial for heavy motorcycles, as the enormous weight wears out the chain too quickly. On touring motorcycles, the cardan is more convenient due to its increased strength. Consider the model as a whole; the way power is transferred will be just one of many characteristics that make up the ideal motorcycle.
Comfort
Although some rate comfort as a three on a five-point scale, there is objectively no reason for this. The riding position is no worse than many other bikes in this class. Holding the steering wheel is no less comfortable. Although the start is abrupt, this is the norm. This makes the model more interesting; in experienced hands, such a start becomes a plus.
The motorcycle is easy to maintain because parts are inexpensive and easy to obtain. In addition, tuning lovers will be pleased, because this model provides enormous opportunities for bringing the motorcycle to a certain subjective perfection, which, as we know, is different for everyone.
Advantages and disadvantages
Like other motorcycles produced in China, the ZiD 250 Enduro is distinguished by its low cost and extremely simplified design. Most often, owners' complaints come down to assembly flaws, and not to the quality of the components themselves, although this particular model was clearly created in a hurry, and therefore was not thoroughly thought out.
Advantages
- A durable engine with a long (with proper maintenance) service life.
- Maintainability. Almost everything can be repaired, and what cannot be repaired can be replaced at minimal cost.
- The motorcycle can run on any gasoline. Probably, if AI-80 is poured into it, it will not even notice it.
- No problems finding spare parts. Even the ZiD Lifan YX 250 GY engine is installed in one form or another on many other bikes.
Flaws
- Poor design. Nothing critical, but there are a lot of unpleasant little things, like an unfinished rear brake or weak fender mounts.
- An unremarkable design, as if copied from other budget Chinese small-capacity models.
- Strong vibrations at high speeds.
- Inconvenient standard mirrors of non-standard shape, which are best replaced immediately after purchase.
For whom
Here are the main features of the Honda CB 125:
- ease of entry for both driver and passenger;
- stylish design that can withstand comparison with top bikes;
- balance of components.
A motorcycle will be an excellent transport for those who live in a big city. However, this machine can also serve a resident of a small town well. Well, as for country routes, this option is suitable, but it is definitely not optimal.
Specifications
Far from modern in the very essence of its design, this bike is beautiful in its masculine simplicity. The Yamaha Drag Star 1100 has perfectly balanced technical characteristics in all respects, and this is one of the main advantages of the famous Japanese cruiser, along with recognized reliability.
Engine
The power unit used was the proven air-cooled V-twin from the XV1100 Virago, whose roots go back to the early 80s, but modified to take into account modern realities. It is powered by two carburetors, producing 62 hp. and 85 Nm of torque, respectively, with all the torque available at 2500 rpm. The engine has tractor-like thrust, as befits a cruiser, and it is capable of accelerating the bike from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds. The maximum speed is 180 km/h, but in such conditions fuel consumption will increase catastrophically.
Transmission
The extremely reliable 5-speed gearbox has one peculiarity - it works very roughly and clumsily, although it is easy to get used to. But when the gear is engaged, a powerful blow is heard from somewhere in the depths of the transmission, making you think that there is a little gnome sitting there with a hammer and anvil, and the bike itself shudders so much that it is visible to the naked eye. At the same time, the transmission life of the Yamaha Drag Star 1100 Classic is enormous; this unit is capable of running hundreds of thousands of kilometers without requiring any attention.
Chassis and brakes
A steel frame, a telescopic fork without adjustments, a pendulum and a monoshock absorber with preload adjustment - that’s the whole chassis. The wheels are either spoked or light alloy, depending on the modification. “Cast” is usually found on V-Star, US market versions. The brakes are good, but nothing more than that: the front wheel has two 298 mm discs with 2-piston calipers, and the rear wheel has one 282 mm disc with the same caliper. There is no ABS, even as an optional extra. Torque is transmitted to the rear wheel using a cardan drive.
Electronics
There are no auxiliary systems, so the electronics are very simple. All wires converge into a switch located under the saddle, which acts as a primitive “brain”. But the European and Japanese versions differ from the American ones; the latter do not have an “emergency light”, a “blink distant” button and a standard immobilizer.
Weight and dimensions
The curb weight of the Drag Star 1100 is 275-285 kg, depending on the modification, but the additional body kit increases this figure. Subjectively, it does not seem heavy due to the center of mass shifted downwards, and the seat height of about 70 cm allows everyone to confidently reach the ground with both feet. The bike is relatively compact and very comfortable to sit on, but tall and long-legged riders may experience numbness in their legs on long trips. There is a solution - installing roll bars with extensions on them, on which you can stretch your legs while driving on the highway.
Controllability
The Drag Star steers approximately as you would expect from a structurally simple and fairly heavy chopper. By the standards of the class, its handling is excellent, but it would be inappropriate to compare it with some kind of sportbike or “road bike”. Let's just say that it has enough maneuverability to perform well in any conditions.
Fuel consumption
On the highway at a speed of 110-120 km/h, fuel consumption is about 5.5-6 liters, depending on the quality of the fuel and the technical condition of your bike. At 140 km/h it already increases to 7.5 liters, and in the city it rarely drops below this mark, especially if you like aggressive driving. The engine, created in the 80s, digests AI-92 perfectly, but AI-95 burns better, which reduces consumption by about 0.5 liters per 100 km. On long trips, this helps to slightly increase the range, which is very important, since the gas tank volume is small - 17 liters.
The Honda company was formed in the late 40s of the last century, when post-war Japan was making every effort to recover from the ruins of World War II. Honda is one of those companies in the history of which there were no grandiose scandals, shame or defeats. Even in the most difficult times, these courageous people found the strength to move on.
At this time, the company's founder, Soichiro Honda, founded a small business producing piston rings, but a year later he began assembling the first cheap mopeds. Since childhood, Soichiro Honda was possessed by the desire to design cars and motorcycles, and his genius was revealed in all its glory in the 1960s - during the heyday of the company, when Honda motorcycles began to win their first awards on the race tracks.
If in the fifties the Japanese could only imitate models from BMW and some American models, then after some time they managed to find their own style. Now other companies have begun to follow their example and even engage in outright plagiarism. Today, Honda is a recognized leader in the motorcycle world, producing the most advanced models of two-wheeled vehicles.
Prices for these Honda motorcycles have never been low, but this has not stopped them from selling a huge number of popular models all over the world. Honda motorcycles are timeless classics. And we all love her and appreciate her very much. The company produces all classes of modern motorcycles. From bikes in the spirit of Harley Davidson, to huge touring models that you can only dream of. Honda choppers are simply the embodiment of any motorcycle lover's sweetest dreams. Chrome parts, excellent design, perfect assembly. A fairy tale, not a car.
Millions of units are sold every year around the world. For a motorcycle enthusiast, buying a Honda motorcycle is not just a dream. People have been collecting money for years, looking at new models, waiting for news. The world follows every release, rejoices at successes and sincerely empathizes when a company fails. However, failures are very rare for Honda. At least when it comes to motorcycles. Today we present to you a brief chronology of the development of this brand.
1906 - Soichiro Honda was born in the Hamamatsu province of Japan into the family of a poor blacksmith. His father gradually masters the craft of a bicycle repairman, thanks to which Soichiro becomes familiar with technology for the first time.
1922 - At the age of 16, Soichiro Honda left school and became an apprentice auto mechanic and got a job in a Tokyo auto repair shop.
1928 - Soichiro Honda returns to Hamamatsu and opens his own auto repair shop. Being a fanatical racing fan, he builds his own racing car.
1936 - During the next sports racing competition, Soichiro Honda has an accident and is seriously injured.
1937 - Soichiro Honda opens a company producing piston rings. At first, his enterprise experiences difficulties, since Soichiro simply has no experience in this field. However, over time, the company became the main supplier of piston rings for Toyota, which during these years began producing its first cars.
1946 - While only a few companies prospered in Germany devastated by World War II, the Japanese motorcycle industry after 1945 numbered more than 100 manufacturers, seizing the opportunity to provide a country with a devastated economy with much-needed low-cost personal transportation. This was also facilitated by protectionist policies regarding basic duties on imported goods. Soichiro Honda is selling its piston ring business. The country is in the throes of a deep post-war crisis. Soichiro realizes that as industry, the economy and normal peaceful life are restored, affordable transport will become very popular and starts a new business - he installs small and inexpensive two-stroke motors on bicycles, which were used as generators for military radio stations during the war. Today many people call them Honda Model A.
1948 - Honda Motor Co. is founded. Ltd. Soichiro Honda focuses on technological processes, transferring control of all financial matters to his associate Takeo Fujisawa.
1949 - Honda produces its first motorcycle with a 98cc two-stroke engine. One of the assembly shop workers, seeing the new product, calls it like a dream. This name, “Dream,” stuck with the motorcycle, although it is officially known as the “Model D.”
1951 - for several post-war years, the streets of Japanese cities are crowded with loud and very unenvironmentally friendly motorcycles with two-stroke engines. Honda begins development of its first motorcycle with a four-stroke “Dream E” engine (displacement 146 cm3)
1952 - despite the fact that Soichiro Honda, by his own admission, does not like “primitive mopeds,” his company develops and begins very successful sales of Cub F mounted motors with a displacement of 50 cm3, which are installed on bicycles. The motor is sold in stores throughout Japan. Honda will continue to produce this engine for the next two years, and then Cub will become an independent brand that will be popular for several decades. Honda Cub outboard motors, which are installed on bicycles, are still popular today, for example in India.
1953 - the Honda Benly J motorcycle model with a 4-stroke 90 cm3 engine appears. It quickly gained popularity among amateur motorcycle racers and existed for two decades, leaving a memory as one of the most reliable Japanese motorcycles of the 50s.
1954 - This year, Soichiro Honda shared with his colleagues and descendants his dream of achieving success in Grand Prix motorcycle racing. He wrote: “My childhood dream was to become a motorcycle racing champion. I had to take first place on a Honda motorcycle of my own design. However, as I got a little older, I realized that before you can win championships, you need to build a strong corporate structure, establish production, and create superior design. In recent years, we have been doing this and today we offer the Japanese products of very high quality, but we have not even begun to make efforts to participate in motorcycle racing. I promise to take part in the Isle of Man TT race and will put all my energy into winning it.”
A few months later, Soichiro Honda goes to the TT motorcycle race and attends it as a spectator. There he pays close attention to the German NSU motorcycles, which were considered the favorites in the 125 and 200 cc classes. This fact may have led to subsequent rumors that Honda copied these motorcycles, although there are a number of significant design differences between the NSU and Honda models.
1957 - a number of leading Italian motorcycle manufacturers, including MV Agusta, Gilera and Mondial, announce the withdrawal of their teams from the world motorcycle championship under the pretext of high costs. MV Agusta subsequently reverses this decision and returns to racing, and racing motorcycles from other manufacturers are sold. One of them (the Mondial racing model) is purchased by representatives of Honda. Japanese motorcycle designers did not copy this Italian motorcycle. He served as their inspiration and the standard to which they aspired.
1958 - the market was shocked by the appearance of the Honda Super Cub motorcycle model (it also has such designations as C100, CA100, Honda 50). Its distinctive features are a stamped steel frame, a lever fork and a 50cc four-stroke engine. Subsequently, models with 70 and 90 cc engines appeared. This motorcycle has become the most popular two-wheeled motorized vehicle in the world.
1959 - Honda takes part in the famous Isle of Man TT championship for the first time. 5 Honda motorcycles in the “Ultralight” class with two-cylinder engines are at the start. Rider Naomi Tanaguchi achieved the team's best result, finishing sixth overall. Honda wins the manufacturer's cup.
1961 - Honda motorcycles gain complete dominance in the 125 and 250 cc classes of the Isle of Man TT Championship. Honda's Mike Hailwood took first place in both classes. The Isle of Man Examiner newspaper published on this day with the headline “East wins unconditional victory” on the front page.
1963 - Honda concentrates on Formula 1 car racing. For this reason, the motorsports industry is experiencing some difficulties. Nevertheless, sales of Honda motorcycles remain very impressive. The Honda Super Cub motorcycle model wins prizes due to its popularity. This year, Honda opens its first foreign assembly plant - a plant in Belgium.
1964 - Models with two-stroke engines begin to dominate the world class of small-capacity sports motorcycles. To successfully compete in the 250cc class, continuing to rely on 4-stroke power units, Honda releases the 3RC164 model with a 250cc six-cylinder engine. This technical work of art makes a huge impression on the world of motorsports, but it is Phil Read on a Yamaha who wins this year's championship. However, in 66 and 67, Mike Hailwood at the world championships in the 250 cc class came first to the finish line on the Honda 3RC164 motorcycle model.
1968 - 19 years after Honda rolled out its first two-wheeled vehicle with a motor, the company produces its 10 millionth motorcycle.
1969 - At the Tokyo Motor Show, Honda introduces the CB750 - a motorcycle that forever changed the idea of what a modern city bike should be.
1970 - Honda enters four drivers in the Daytona 200. Only one of them finished, Dick Mann, but he finished first, overshadowing the failure of the other team members. Riding a Honda CB750 Racing Type, specially prepared by the company's racing division, Dick Man left Triumph and Harley-Davidson XR750 motorcycles behind.
1972 - Honda designers recognize that in order to build a motocross motorcycle capable of competing on equal terms with competitors, it is necessary to develop a new two-stroke engine. The new engine was installed on the CR250 Elsinore, which immediately received recognition from athletes as one of the best motocross motorcycles.
1973 - Soichiro Honda resigns as president of the company, but remains a member of the board of directors; employees call him “Chief Advisor” among themselves.
1974 - the start of production of the legendary Honda Gold Wing model - GL1000. It was first presented to the public at a motorcycle exhibition in Cologne, and just a year later it began to be actively sold on the US market. The motorcycle has the first four-stroke liquid-cooled engine. In addition, it uses a cardan shaft as the main gear. Another innovation was the fuel pump - its installation was required because the Gold Wing had two fuel tanks - one between the handlebars and the seat and the second hidden under the seat for optimal mass balancing of the motorcycle.
1978 - Honda is trying to create a powerful sports motorcycle specifically for participation in the 500GP series of the world motorsports championship. It was the NR500 model, whose V-shaped four-cylinder engine used oval-shaped pistons. This was a real breakthrough for engine designers. However, during testing of the motorcycle, many problems were identified that were resolved only a year later. However, in the races, the Honda NR500 suffered one failure after another and ultimately did not bring the company’s motorcycle team a single victory.
1981 - Production of the Honda Gold Wing motorcycle model moves from Japan to a new assembly plant in Ohio in the USA.
1983 - Honda team driver Freddie Spencer wins the world championship in the 500cc class for the first time. Previously, the company had managed to win in this class only in the Manufacturers' Cup in 1966.
1986 - After an unsuccessful experience with V-shaped four-cylinder engines in the late 70s, Honda finally returns to this engine layout and releases the VFR750F Interceptor model. For the next ten years, this motorcycle was considered the best road bike.
1987 - the company releases the Honda CBR600F motorcycle model - the first four-cylinder streetfighter with a full plastic body kit.
1990 - Four years after the start of production, the Honda VFR750R motorcycle (special sports version) was sold in the United States for the first time. It's priced at double the price of a regular stock Interceptor model.
1991 - The company mourns the death of its founder Soichiro Honda, who died of kidney disease.
1992 - a limited edition of the legendary Honda NR motorcycle was released, which participated in MotoGP races without much success. Its civilian version is equipped with a 750 cm3 engine. and unique for its time carbon fiber body, digital instrument panel, cantilever swing arm and electronic fuel injection. Despite the widespread use of ultra-light materials, the model weighs more than 200 kilograms, and the price is breathtaking - $60,000!
1993 - the sports world is turned upside down after the presentation of the first Honda CBR900RR sportbike. The creation of designer Tadao Baba combines the power of an open class motorcycle with the weight and handling of a 600.
1995 - a new specially prepared cross-country motorcycle Honda EXP-2 with a two-stroke 400 cc engine takes first place in its class in the Grenada-Dakar rally. Its engine, thanks to the use of a floating exhaust valve, uses complete fuel combustion technology.
2001 - Valentino Rossi wins the world championship in the 500 class, riding a motorcycle with a Honda NSR500 two-stroke engine. The following year, the championship organizers abandoned races in this class.
2002 - Valentino Rossi wins the MotoGP championship on a Honda motorcycle in the 990 cc class. see model RC211V, equipped with a five-cylinder, four-stroke engine.
2004 - Honda produces a prototype motorcycle whose engine receives energy from fuel cells.
2006 - The 50 millionth model of the Honda Super Cub motorcycle is sold. In total, more than two hundred million motorcycles based on the Honda Cub engine have been produced in the world.
2007 - Honda becomes the first motorcycle manufacturer to equip one of its models (Honda Gold Wing) with an airbag.
2010 - the Honda VFR 1200F model was introduced. Although this is not a sportbike, as fans of the brand expected, no one was disappointed in the motorcycle. Its main advantage was the optional automatic transmission with two clutches, the speed of which can be changed using buttons.
Another bright premiere of this year was the Honda Fury model - a classic road motorcycle in the “chopper” style. The new product gave experts reason to say that Honda again wants to enter into fierce competition with Harley-Davidson, as it was in the 60s and 70s of the last century.
2011 - Honda makes an attempt to return to the segment of small-capacity sportbikes and succeeds with the release of the Honda CBR 250R model, equipped with a 249 cc engine. The motorcycle is produced at the company's assembly plant in Thailand and sold throughout the world.
2013 - Honda continues to expand its line of motorcycle models by developing intermediate classes. This is how sales of three models equipped with a 500 cc engine begin - CBR500R, CB500F and CB500X. At the beginning of 2014, company representatives promise to begin sales of the CBR300R model.
Well, at the end of the material I would like to say a few words about the legendary lines of Honda motorcycles: In the tourist class, the ageless Honda Gold Wing has always been in the lead. The modern model - 1800 F6B - is a luxury classic with an updated design. The chassis has been updated, and long trips have become even more comfortable. The 6-cylinder 12-valve engine with a volume of 1.8 liters has a power of 118 hp. at 5500 rpm. Tank volume - 25 liters.
The classic GL1800 Gold Wing also holds its own. For Honda, motorcycles in this series have always been favorites. They were never neglected. Therefore, every year they become better, more qualitative, more perfect. Here, too, they did not forget about good brakes, ABS and other pleasures for the driver. The powerful V6 pleases not only with a pleasant sound, but also with excellent speed. Electronic ignition and so on are present. The Goldwing five-speed gearbox is also very good.
The next popular motorcycle around the world is the legendary “400”. Initially, in the 90s, it was produced only for the Japanese domestic market and had power limitations - 53 hp. This is due to the legislation of this country, which has a limit on cubic capacity and power for non-professionals. The Honda CB 400 motorcycle that is being produced now is very different from what was produced in the 90s, even in appearance. The speed of the CB400SF model with V4 is 190 km/h. The model is so loved by the people that it has not stopped being produced since 1992, only periodically modernizing it. This is one of the best urban road builders of all time. Therefore, it is not surprising that people willingly buy used cars even with 15 years of driving experience. The Honda CB 400 motorcycle is an immortal Japanese classic that has gained an army of millions of fans.
Those who remember the legendary BigOne series have not forgotten about the flagship CB 1300 Super Four. Externally, it looks like the good old SV 1000. An open engine, a large tank, a tubular frame - everything makes it look like an old classic. Except for one thing - a modern motor and electronics. 240 kilometers per hour is what the owner of this car can afford. It weighs a lot - 250 kg. But at the same time it has very good maneuverability and excellent controllability.
The next model that I would like to mention is the Honda cbr 600 motorcycle. There are many good models in the Super Sport class. And not only from Honda, but also from other leading manufacturers. But the CBR 600 has something of its own, unique. The classic 600, produced in 1999, doesn’t seem outdated even now. Its powerful four-cylinder engine with an incomparable deep sound delights the hearts of motorcyclists all over the world. The power of this beast is 100 hp. There was another interesting sample - Honda CBR 600 °F Sport. Excellent carburetor engine, PTS and chic appearance. A car for real athletes.
From sports equipment, let's return to the one that everyone loves - choppers. These bikes are not produced for high speeds. They are bought by people who value the spirit of true freedom. For them, the road is life, and a motorcycle is a faithful horse, a companion until the end of their days. Honda Phantom (TA200) was produced for such people. Firstly, it is very convenient and easy to use. If you are a beginner, then the “start” will be easy. 200cc engine, electric starter, stylish design. This is a technique for true connoisseurs. These still fairly new Honda motorcycles were released in 2008.
Another favorite of all bikers is the custom Rebel 250. A motorcycle made with taste, for fans. 234 cubes, 18 horses, 2-cylinder carburetor engine. He looks like he came out of some old American motorcycle gang movie.
Chic and simply incomparable in design, the VT750 Shadow Spirit. This is truly a god in the world of cruisers. Available in 3 modifications: VT750DC Shadow Spirit model 2007, Honda Shadow 750 motorcycle 2010 and VT750 C2S Shadow Spirit. If you love custom bikes and know how Honda makes them, you'll love these bikes. Black Spirit of 2010 expressed a number of conceptual ideas accumulated over ten years of searching.
The VT1300 CX Fury chopper can easily be called another Japanese legend. Even in some southern state, few people consider this Honda motorcycle to be bad. Impeccable appearance and the same reliability made this model the king in its class.
Honda is a company that has not slowed down for almost 70 years and is improving its technology every year. This is the best service in the world, high-quality spare parts, hundreds and even thousands of victories in major international competitions, rallies such as Dakar. Honda has repeatedly won honorary prizes in competitions.
