American Honda launches 12 models in 5 motorcycle classes

MANILA: American Honda revealed no fewer than 12 motorcycle models from five different categories including sport, miniMoto, dual sport, scooter and trials. Side-by-side models were also unveiled by the motorcycle maker. 

Headlining the reveal is the legendary Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, which in 2022 adopts important new performance upgrades to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Fireblade’s original introduction in Europe (followed a year later in the US).

Returning for 2022 are the CBR650R sport bike and CB650R naked bike, both of which come standard with ABS. On the miniMoto front, the 2023 edition of the popular Grom is back, as is the 2022 edition of the retro Trail 125. The PCX also returns for 2022, continuing as the benchmark model among scooters, and joined by the 2023 Ruckus.

“The models included are each unique, but they share a commitment to delivering the enjoyment of two-wheel recreation," American Honda Manager of Sports and Experiential Brandon Wilson said. 

As the 30th-anniversary version of the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, development of this model’s inline four-cylinder engine centers on mid-corner acceleration. The intake ports, airbox, airbox funnels and exhaust mid-section are all revised to deliver extra midrange power. The CBR1000RR-R's Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) has also been optimized for refined rear-tire traction management, while throttle feel has improved even further.

A full-fairing sport variant of the standard CB650R, the CBR650R has a high-quality Showa Separate Function Big Piston fork, stylish aesthetics and excellent emissions performance. The two naked bikes share Honda’s Neo Sports Café design theme. 

The Trail 125 harkens back to a golden era of motorcycling and Honda’s nostalgic Monkey and Super Cub, but also incorporates the modern joys of practical design and hassle-free technology. Compared to the urban-focused Super Cub on which it is based, the Trail 125 has a number of rugged upgrades, making it ideal for casual trekking on- and off-road. 

Honda’s PCX is the ultimate tool for tackling urban environments in style, continuing to set the standard for scooter design and technology. Equipped with a freeway-capable engine, the PCX is equally suitable for new riders and more experienced customers, delivering performance, fuel economy, great handling, a comfortable ride and simple operation

A top-selling dual-sport model, the CRF300L boasts strong power, low weight and excellent on- and off-road performance. The CRF300L Rally adds to the former model images of the Dakar Rally, hand guards, and expanded fuel tank. 

The XR650L dual-sport model continues to be popularly used on single-track trails, dirt roads and backroads. A styling facelift for 2022 is added to the XR650L. 

The latest evolution of Montesa’s versatile 259cc platform, the Motesa Cota 4RT620R acquires the “R” suffix for 2022, indicating its more competition-ready specifications.

Upgrades include a switch to Showa suspension components, as well as a larger aluminum muffler that delivers increased horsepower across the rev range. The competition-focused version is called the 4RT301RR Race Replica. 

As a miniMoto, the Grom offers a low seat height and approachability to make it an unintimidating option for new riders to learn with. The Grom's modular styling and peppy performance make it an entertaining plaything for experienced riders and a customization platform for those looking for an amusing project.

The Ruckus is aimed to the scooter-customization subculture, with its exposed frame and dual round headlights contributing to an industrial-looking design, plus practical features like reliability, fuel efficiency and nimble handling.

Photos from American Honda

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