It’s better late than never that Honda Philippines finally announced the arrival of Honda big bikes to Philippine shores at a formal affair at the Shangri-la at the Fort on Dec 9 2017.
While the local big bike market, which includes three-wheelers and all-terrain vehicles, is still small compared to the underbones and scooters, the segment recorded 25 percent sales growth in 2017. This could have been the signal for Honda to finally bring in its power models to join the race in the big bike market, following the Europeans and the other Japanese makers. Honda’s entry could bring more life and color to this growing market segment.
Leading the charge is the unique crossover X-ADV, designed to have the stability of a scooter and the power and toughness of an off-road motorcycle. This is built around a tubular-steel chassis, and is powered by a 745 cc twin-cylinder engine with a dual clutch transmission. For extra performance in off-road riding, it has a 41 mm upside-down fork, load-adjustable Pro-link rear shock, and a ground clearance of 162 mm.
The Ultimate Adventure bike Africa Twin (CRF1000L) is set to blaze a new trail in the local market. It has a 998 cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine with patented selective torque control for effective power delivery in a wide range of road conditions. With adventure riding requiring natural and athletic movements, the Africa Twin is built with bi-axial counter-balance for vibration-free and smooth handling.
The mid-displacement CB500X was designed for all-around use and handling on all terrain rides; from city commutes to rides on unpaved and open roads. The liquid-cooled 471 cc parallel-twin engine is suited for both short and long distance rides, and is exceptionally fuel efficient.
The CBR500R is infused with the next-level, inline-twin 471 cc engine with power suitable for racing. The designers combined aggressive style with a comfortable framework; as well as traditional bike image and modern styling. It has aerodynamic fairing and specially designed air ducts all the way to the 2-channel ABS and 41 mm telescopic fork.
The Rebel500 functions for both laid-back cruising and more active sport riding with its rider’s triangle, its 471 cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin cylinder engine tucked in a low chassis and minimalist design.
The CB650F is a mid-weight naked street style motorcycle with notable exhaust pipes that wrap around its four-cylinder 649 cc DOHC inline engine with a 6-speed gearbox. It is equipped with 2-channel ABS, 41 mm telescopic fork, and fully adjustable Showa suspension.
The CB1100EX has a classic design integrating modern features with its seamless fuel tank, deep chrome exhausts and 17-inch aluminum wheels. It was built with air-cooled, inline four cylinder 1140 cc engine mated to a 6-speed transmission. It is equipped with 2-piece front fork, remote-reservoir rear shocks, 4-piston caliper brakes, floating discs, and a sharper chassis.
The FIREBLADE SP (CBR1100RR) is designed with MotoGP racing DNA, equipped with selectable torque control, selectable engine brake, new ABS brakes, quick shifter, riding-mode select system, power selector, and Ohlins smart EC suspension.
All the Honda big bikes are initially available at Honda Prestige Traders, Inc. with showroom located along EDSA corner Harvard St, Makati City. It is open Mondays to Sundays from 8:30am to 6:00pm.
