The days of a booming economy when motorcycle manufacturers could sell all the high-end, heavy cruisers they could produce have ended and may never return. For many companies, surviving and thriving will require adapting to the new normal, rather than waiting for the return of the boom days.
Honda's motorcycle division has plunged into this perceived market niche with what they are calling the New Mid Concept. In fact, Honda has created a new section on their corporate website specifically for this group of bikes. The bikes they are featuring are smaller, less expensive to purchase and to operate, and seek to attract a customer base looking for affordable transportation as well as fun.
Initially at least, Honda is touting their NC700S, NC700X, and INTEGRA. All three are based on a common frame and Honda's new-generation 670cc liquid-cooled 2-cylinder engine. The NC700S is a naked street bike while the NC700X is a crossover, intended for more varied road surfaces. The INTEGRA, says Honda, is intended to meet the needs of customers who "want to experience a relaxed ride that combines the comfort of a scooter with the thrill of a motorcycle." That is to say, the INTEGRA can be switched from the basic manual transmission setting to an automatic mode.
All three models are fuel-injected and boast approximately 65 miles per gallon. The INTEGRA and NC700S have a 31-inch seat height, while the NC700X, befitting its dual-sport nature, sits higher at 32.6 inches.
Says Honda regarding this move to mid-sized bikes, "Honda regards the 3 models it has developed as the creative vanguard of a new world of motorcycles where fun technologies, married with Honda's environmental and safety expertise, will enable more people than ever to freely enjoy motorcycles in their everyday lives."
Comments