Dudel took some time out from unwrapping gifts to scoop us on the Forza updates. Looks like the fanzy Forza Z in Japan has undergone a full model change yesterday for launch in spring 2008. Besides the fancy key card, seven speed s-matic transmission, and optional cute kitty compartment, the all-new FORZA will be equipped with an audio system.
It’s American cousin, the Reflex, is of course discontinued. Honda’s biggest selling “lightweight motorcycle” is not available here. Honda’s biggest selling vehicle of all time, the Cub, also not available here. *steve kicks a dead horse*
28. December 2007 at 10:24 am
I guess we’re supposed to be grateful that the whole Honda American product line doesn’t start at 1100cc.
28. December 2007 at 9:01 pm
RE: “be grateful that the whole Honda American product line doesn’t start at 1100cc”
Actually, all of the Shadow models – 600, 750, 1100cc – are discontinued and the only cruisers for 2008 are the VTX1300 and VTX1800. The 1850(GW), 1800, and 1300 engines and bikes are produced in the USA. My guess, Honda America wants to maximize the profit margin from sales and thus won’t import anything due to the weak dollar. For 2010 the Honda bike lineup will probably be a new bike with 1850 engine (think Rune or EVO6), GoldWing-1850, VTX1800 (in multiple versions), VTX1300 (in multiple versions), and then the non-USA bikes… the RRs and a 49er or two.
31. December 2007 at 3:05 pm
Gimme a break. Brazil makes millions of small displacement city bikes for Honda. They are all over Mexico at $1000-$1200 a pop.
They would be selling them here at $3000 a piece. I guess they would make a little money on them.