Types of Honda Bikes

According to "Daily Fuel Economy Tip," Sochiro Honda, founder of Honda Motor Organization, did not originally intend to manufacture motorcycles. Honda had a passion for driving fast and racing and appreciated riding high performing bikes. Since the founding of Honda Motor Organization in 1948, Honda's reputation for building high quality, powerful, well-designed bikes has resulted in Honda's ranking as one of the "top sellers in the motorcycle market" in 2010. Honda Motors serves an international market with scooters, sleek touring bikes, sporting bikes, dual-purpose bikes and rugged all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and ATV utility vehicles.

Scooters

Honda has five scooter models designed for commuting around town. The Metropolitan and Ruckus have small engines designed as urban runabouts for one person. The Elite is a two-seater with a 108 cc liquid-cooled, four-stroke, and fuel-injection engine. There is a glove compartment and storage area under the seat. The PCX is the largest street-only model with a 153 cc engine and a combined braking system.

Touring Bikes

According to Power Sports, "Cycle World" magazine named Honda's Gold Wing Touring Bike among the "Top 10 Bikes" 17 times. The 2010 model comes in four package choices for the best in comfort and reliability during long distance rides. The basic Gold Wing has an 1833 cc liquid-cooled, horizontally-opposed six-cylinder engine with audio entertainment. The next level adds a satellite-linked Navigation System and XM Radio. The next level adds an anti-lock braking system. For the ultimate touring experience purchase the 2010 Gold Wing model with the industry's first motorcycle airbag system.

Sport Bikes

The eight models of trail bikes offer choices for riders of every size and weight as well as level of expertise. There are bikes for lighter weight teens as well as heavier teens and adults. The trail bikes have electric starters for all weather conditions. Some bikes have rear-suspension for safer "whoop-de-do" riding. The trail bikes feature low weight with higher seats for cornering and easier handling whether exploring the bike country or doing motocross racing.

Double Duty Bikes

In 2010, Honda offers a crossover bike with a 680 cc OHC V-twin engine for everyday commuting or enthusiastic back road riding. The front and rear anti-lock braking system combined with a low seat height and long 63.4 wheelbase make for better handling on rough terrain. The Silver Wing Scooter also is designed for double duty. This model has a 14 1/2-gallon storage tank that is weather resistant and lockable. It will hold a full-face helmet and enough clothes for a week of travel with careful packing.

All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs)

Honda's ATV sport vehicles feature electric power steering and a three- or five-speed automatic transmission. The ATV Utility "Big Red" was "meant to work." Big Red has a cargo bed big enough to hold 1,000 lbs. and has a towing capacity of 1,500 lbs. There are seat belts and an occupant protection shield. The Maxi Big Horn tires with stronger side walls have increased traction. Big Red also has preloaded adjustable shocks.