The Honda Destini scooter is powered by a 124.6cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that produces 9bhp and 10.4Nm of torque. Despite weighing 115kg, which is on the heavier side compared to its competitors, the Destini feels peppy and responsive from the start. The scooter’s seamless CVT engagement, crisp throttle response, and potent power delivery make it easy and engaging to ride. The engine is also smooth and refined, with minimal vibrations, and sounds pleasant when accelerating.

The Destini’s riding dynamics are impressive, feeling planted and confident whether navigating through traffic, taking on flyovers, or riding aggressively. The scooter’s 12-inch wheels, combined with its long wheelbase, provide stability and seating room, but don’t compromise its handling. The Destini is happy to change directions quickly and responds well to input from the rider. The front end provides good feel, and the tyres offer strong grip, making it enjoyable to ride the scooter with a sporty intent.

However, the braking performance of the Destini is only average. The front brake lacks bite, and the rear drum brake could benefit from more stopping power and less fade. Despite this, the overall performance and handling of the Destini make it a compelling option in its class. Its powerful engine, smooth refinement, and confident handling make it a great choice for commuters and enthusiasts alike. With its impressive credentials, the Destini is a scooter that is sure to turn heads and provide a enjoyable riding experience. Overall, the Destini’s performance and handling make it a strong contender in the 125cc scooter segment.

The 2025 Honda N-VAN e is a new kei van that has caught the attention of many. As a part of Japan’s kei car segment, this van is designed to be small, fuel-efficient, and affordable. In this case, the “e” in N-VAN e stands for electric, indicating that this kei van is powered by an electric motor.

The N-VAN e is built on the same platform as the Honda N-VAN, which is a gasoline-powered kei van. However, the electric version has some significant differences. It features a 22.0-kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which provides a range of approximately 124 miles on a single charge. The electric motor produces 134 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, making it a viable option for city driving.

One of the most notable features of the N-VAN e is its compact size. It measures just 133.7 inches in length, 58.1 inches in width, and 73.2 inches in height. This makes it an ideal vehicle for navigating narrow city streets and tight parking spaces. The N-VAN e also has a turning radius of just 14.1 feet, making it highly maneuverable.

Inside, the N-VAN e has a simple and practical interior design. It features a range of storage compartments and cargo tie-downs, making it a great option for small businesses or individuals who need a vehicle for hauling goods. The van also has a range of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

The N-VAN e is expected to be a popular option in Japan, where kei cars are extremely popular. However, it’s unclear whether the vehicle will be available in other markets. Honda has not announced any plans to export the N-VAN e to other countries, but it’s possible that it could be available in the future.

Overall, the 2025 Honda N-VAN e is an exciting new addition to the kei van segment. Its compact size, electric powertrain, and practical interior make it an ideal vehicle for city driving and small businesses. While it may not be available outside of Japan, it’s an interesting example of the innovative vehicles that are being developed for the kei car market. With its range of up to 124 miles on a single charge, the N-VAN e is a great option for those looking for a reliable and environmentally friendly vehicle.

The introduction of the Honda Activa EV marks a significant milestone in the Indian electric two-wheeler market. As the nation’s most iconic scooter, the Activa has earned a reputation for reliability, durability, and value retention, which are essential qualities for widespread adoption of electric vehicles in India. Honda’s strategy for the Activa EV is centered around continuity and evolution, rather than revolution, to minimize the psychological barriers to adoption for conservative Indian consumers.

The company has retained the familiar design, ergonomics, and user interface of the ICE Activa, while incorporating cutting-edge technologies such as a permanent magnet synchronous motor, lithium-ion phosphate battery, and advanced battery management system. The Activa EV’s powertrain is designed for smooth, linear power delivery, and its battery technology prioritizes longevity and safety over maximum capacity.

Honda’s approach to the Activa EV is characterized by a focus on reliability, durability, and practicality, rather than specification maximalism. The company has adopted a measured strategy, taking into account the actual usage patterns of Activa customers, and has developed a well-rounded package that balances performance, range, and affordability.

The Activa EV’s user interface and overall experience are designed to be a balance of familiarity and modernity, with a digital display that provides essential information and a smartphone app that offers features such as service reminders, battery status monitoring, and basic diagnostics. The scooter’s compatibility with charging infrastructure is also a key aspect of its design, with a detachable battery option and fast-charging capability.

Honda’s pricing and variant strategy for the Activa EV is designed to appeal to a wide range of customers, from first-time buyers to experienced riders. The company has developed a range of versions that vary from more feature-rich alternatives to more accessible entry points, with a base model that aims for direct price parity with premium 125cc ICE scooters.

The Activa EV’s market positioning is significant, as it brings electric mobility to a wider audience and has the potential to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles in India. Honda’s unmatched network of over 6,000 touchpoints across India provides customers with the assurance of service, parts, and support, even in smaller cities and towns.

The company’s strategy for the Activa EV goes beyond the vehicle itself, to include the larger ecosystem in which it operates. Honda has collaborations with energy suppliers and charging network operators to increase accessible public charging, and has implemented intensive technician training programs to ensure that service centers in smaller markets are capable of safely and successfully diagnosing and repairing electric powertrains.

The arrival of the Activa EV marks a turning point in India’s electric mobility development, with the potential to hasten general acceptance and endow electrification with the legitimacy of the nation’s most reputable scooter marque. The scooter’s manufacturing volumes and supply chain expansion are expected to generate favourable externalities for India’s larger electric two-wheeler ecosystem, potentially lowering barriers and creating a positive feedback loop of increased affordability and broader acceptance.

Overall, the Activa EV is both a product and a catalyst, with the potential to make electric mobility accessible to the largest two-wheeler market in the world. By introducing electric mobility through a car marque that has defined dependability and practicality for generations of Indians, Honda has the potential to speed the transformation in ways that isolated premium offers or unknown new brands could not accomplish on their own.

Johann Zarco, the current LCR Honda rider, has expressed his desire to join the factory Honda team in MotoGP. The Frenchman has been in talks with Honda and has described the conversations as “very positive”. Zarco has made it clear that he is interested in moving to the factory team, which could potentially become available if Luca Marini, the current factory Honda rider, leaves at the end of the season.

Marini’s contract is set to expire, while his teammate Joan Mir has another year left on his deal. Zarco has been open about his ambition to join the factory team and has been in discussions with Honda to explore the possibility. He has also been speaking with his current team boss, Lucio Cecchinello, and has praised the honest and open communication between them.

Zarco is currently the top-scoring Honda rider, with 43 points, and believes that becoming the number one rider for the factory team could be an important step in his career. He has stated that he feels good at LCR Honda and has the full support of Honda, but is evaluating whether a move to the factory team is the right decision for him.

Meanwhile, Marini has confirmed that he has begun negotiations with Honda to potentially extend his contract. The Italian rider’s future with the team is uncertain, and Zarco’s interest in joining the factory team has added to the speculation. Zarco’s move to the factory team would be a significant step up for the French rider, and he is eager to make the transition. With talks ongoing, it remains to be seen what the future holds for both Zarco and Marini in MotoGP.

Zarco’s desire to join the factory team is driven by his ambition to become a top rider in the sport. He believes that joining the factory team would provide him with the best opportunity to achieve his goals and become a consistent challenger for podiums and wins. With his current form and the support of Honda, Zarco is well-placed to make the move to the factory team and take his career to the next level.

The article celebrates the 65th anniversary of the launch of the Honda Cub, a machine that has had a significant impact on human lives, with over 120 million units sold worldwide. The Cub is considered the best-selling Honda of all time, and its success can be attributed to its simplicity, reliability, and affordability. The article also highlights Honda’s rich history of innovation and engineering excellence, which has led to the creation of some of the most iconic and beloved vehicles in the world.

To commemorate the Cub’s birthday, the author has assembled a collection of Hondas that showcase the company’s technical brilliance over the decades. The lineup includes the 2015 RC213V-S, a road-legal MotoGP bike that is considered one of the most advanced motorcycles in the world. The author had the opportunity to ride the RC213V-S and was impressed by its lightness, handling, and V4 engine.

Other Hondas featured in the article include the S800, a 1960s roadster with a high-revving four-cylinder engine; the Integra Type R, a highly sought-after performance car with a high-revving VTEC engine; and the NSX, a mid-engined sports car that was launched in 1989 and is considered one of the greatest Hondas of all time. The author praises the NSX for its handling, lightness, and VTEC engine, which makes it a joy to drive.

The article also features the Honda Cub, which is still relevant today as an affordable and economical mode of transportation. The author reminisces about their experience riding a Cub as a teenager and notes that it is a machine that is easy to operate and live with. The Cub’s simplicity and reliability have made it a beloved vehicle around the world, and it continues to be a symbol of Honda’s commitment to innovation and engineering excellence.

In addition to the vehicles featured in the article, the author also mentions several other notable Hondas that were not included, such as the HondaJet, a lightweight business jet with a cruise speed of 420 knots; the Mean Mower, a lawn mower that holds the Guinness World Record for the fastest mower in the world; and ASIMO, a humanoid robot that is part of Honda’s robotics program.

Overall, the article is a celebration of Honda’s rich history and its commitment to innovation, engineering excellence, and creating vehicles that are both fun to drive and easy to live with. The company’s philosophy of “Hondaness” is evident in every vehicle it produces, and its dedication to creating machines that are both high-performance and accessible has made it a beloved brand around the world.

The author concludes that the NSX is the greatest Honda of all time, due to its exceptional handling, lightness, and VTEC engine, which make it a joy to drive. However, the Cub is also a close contender, due to its simplicity, reliability, and affordability, which have made it a beloved vehicle around the world. The article is a testament to Honda’s enduring legacy and its continued commitment to innovation and engineering excellence.

The joy of flying a plane is a thrill that many enthusiasts experience, but one of the challenges that comes with it is getting from the airport to the final destination, especially in rural areas where taxis and rental cars may not be available. This problem is not unique to general aviation, as even commercial airports can sometimes leave passengers stranded without transportation options. One solution to this problem was the Suitcase Cycle, a motorcycle that could be packed into a suitcase and easily transported on a plane.

The Suitcase Cycle was the brainchild of Lawrence S. Shapiro, a pilot and aviation enthusiast who flew for United Airlines and had a passion for small aircraft. In the 1960s, Shapiro began modifying Honda CT90 motorcycles to fit into a suitcase, creating a road-legal vehicle that could be easily transported on a plane. The motorcycle was designed to be lightweight and compact, with a quick-release mechanism for the seat and detachable parts such as the bars, levers, and fuel tank.

Shapiro’s company, S & K Suitcase Cycle, marketed the Suitcase Cycle as a solution for pilots, boat owners, and motorhome owners who needed a way to get around once they arrived at their destination. The company sold kits to convert existing motorcycles, as well as completed conversions, and even did custom commissions. At its peak, the company was converting motorcycles up to 360cc, including Hondas, Suzukis, and Yamahas.

The Suitcase Cycle was a unique and innovative solution to the “last-mile problem” faced by many travelers. It was marketed as a safe and strong vehicle, with advertisements claiming that it was “several times stronger” than the original motorcycle frame. However, the company ultimately shut down in 1974 due to product liability concerns and pressure from motorcycle manufacturers.

Today, the few remaining Suitcase Cycles are highly coveted by pilots and motorcycle enthusiasts, and can be found for sale online for relatively low prices. The concept of a motorcycle that can be stored in a tiny space has never really gone away, with modern scooters and compact vehicles continuing to be popular. The Suitcase Cycle remains a fascinating and humorous relic of a bygone era, a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of entrepreneurs like Lawrence Shapiro. With its unique design and compact size, the Suitcase Cycle is a reminder that even the most impossible-seeming ideas can become a reality with enough innovation and dedication.

The Honda CB350RS is a neo-retro motorcycle that combines classic styling with modern sportiness. At its heart is a 348.36cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that produces 20.7 horsepower and 30 Newton meters of peak torque, paired with a 5-speed gearbox. This powerplant provides a balanced blend of performance and fuel efficiency.

In terms of dimensions, the CB350RS has a kerb weight of 180 kg and a seat height of 800 mm, making it accessible to riders of various heights and experience levels. Its neo-retro design is inspired by Honda’s iconic motorcycles of the past, but with a modern twist, featuring a sleek and sporty appeal.

The CB350RS is available at a competitive base price of Rs 2.15 lakh (ex-showroom), making it an attractive option for those looking for a reliable and feature-packed motorcycle in this segment. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting out, the Honda CB350RS is a great choice for commuting, touring, or simply enjoying the open road.

Overall, the Honda CB350RS is a well-rounded motorcycle that combines retro style with modern performance and practicality. Its compact size, lightweight design, and fuel-efficient engine make it an excellent option for urban commuters, while its sporty aesthetic will appeal to riders who enjoy the thrill of the ride. With its affordable price tag and impressive feature set, the CB350RS is sure to be a hit among motorcycle enthusiasts in India.

The Honda HRC Castrol team had a promising opening day at the Lusail International Circuit, with both Luca Marini and Joan Mir posting competitive times in the first two practice sessions. Marini was consistent throughout the day, finishing in 12th place twice with a best time of 1’51.775, just a tenth of a second away from a spot in the top ten. He remains confident that with better track placement, he can transfer to Q2 on Saturday. Mir was also a front-runner, finishing with a time of 1’51.784, just 0.009s behind Marini’s best. The #36 rider aims to continue his perfect run of Q2 appearances in 2025 and improve his performance in fast corners.

Both riders will face a crucial Saturday, with Free Practice 2 giving way to Q1 at 15:40 Local Time. If they can navigate the grid position and make it to Q2, they have the ability to fight for a top ten spot. In his post-practice comments, Marini highlighted the importance of track position and aero effect on the Lusail circuit, stating that paying attention to these factors will be crucial in Q1. Mir, on the other hand, acknowledged that there is still room for improvement in the fast corners, but believes the team can put together a better lap in Q1.

Overall, it was a positive day for the Honda HRC Castrol team, with both riders showing competitive pace. Marini’s consistency and Mir’s improvement throughout the day bode well for Saturday’s Q1 and Q2 sessions. With a strong grid position, both riders have the potential to fight for a top ten spot in the Sprint race on Saturday at 20:00 Local Time.

Eddie Jordan, a legendary figure in the world of Formula 1, has passed away, and tributes are being paid to his colorful personality and career. As a former team owner, TV analyst, and Top Gear presenter, Jordan leaves behind a lasting legacy. The article looks back at some of the most notable cars to bear his name, including the Honda Civic VTi-S Jordan, a special edition road car produced in 1999.

The Civic VTi-S Jordan was a unique collaboration between Honda and Eddie Jordan’s F1 team, and only 500 examples were made for the UK market. Despite lacking any performance upgrades or motorsport input, the car still has a certain charm. In fact, 10 years after the first 302 examples were sold, 325 were still in circulation, and one-third were still active on the road.

The story behind the Civic VTi-S Jordan is interesting, with a focus on the theme “Buzzin Hornet,” which replaced Hissing Sid, the team’s logo, on the car’s interior and exterior. The car’s engine, a 1.6-liter VTEC four-cylinder, produced 160 horsepower and 111 lb-ft of torque, making it the fastest and most powerful Civic available in the UK at the time.

However, the Jordan-Honda relationship was not without its challenges. Eddie Jordan had been seeking a major manufacturer to buy a stake in his F1 team, and talks with Honda eventually fell through when the Japanese company offered to buy 100% of the team and have Eddie Jordan leave the scene. Honda eventually replaced Jordan’s Mugen-Honda engine with a V10 for 2000, and the two parted ways in 2002.

Despite being overshadowed by other F1 special editions, the Honda Civic VTi-S Jordan remains a beloved and memorable car. Its story serves as a reminder of the colorful era of Eddie Jordan’s F1 team and the unique collaborations that can bring joy to car enthusiasts.

Honda has launched a new set of updates to its 2022 CB350 lineup, including the CB350, CB350 H’ness, and CB350 RS models. Here are some key updates and highlights from the launch event:

Price Update: The prices of the Honda CB350 and CB350 RS have seen a hike of up to Rs 15,500, with the new prices ranging from Rs 2.04 lakh to Rs 2.20 lakh in Delhi. The CB350 H’ness will start at Rs 2.10 lakh.

New Colors: Honda has introduced a range of five new colors for the CB350 models, including Pearl Igneous Black, Jupiter Red, Imperial Red Metallic, Rebel Red Metallic, and Tarmac Black.

Engine and Features: The engine continues to be the same 348cc air-cooled single-cylinder fuel-injected engine that generates 23.9 PS at 8,500 rpm and 29.5 Nm of peak torque at 6,500 rpm.

Design: The H’ness model gets a more premium design, with anodized alloy wheels, black sill guards, and a clutch peripheral weight suppression (CPS) guard.

Technology: The new CB350 models get Honda’s Selectable S Wing Ride Modes, Smart Key, and full-LED lighting.

Features: The bike features a large 42 mm telescopic fork, gold cartridge type upside-down fork, and a retractable multi-functional instrument cluster.

Other updates: Honda has worked to improve noise insulation in the cabin and enhanced the riding experience for the new CB350 lineup.

The new Honda CB350 lineup, including the H’ness and RS models, is now priced lower than before, starting from Rs 2.04 lakh in some cities.

Toni Bou, a French trial rider, has made history by becoming the X-Trial World Champion for the 19th time, bringing his total number of world titles to 37. This remarkable achievement comes after a standout season, during which he won six out of seven events, securing the championship with one round still to go. Bou’s impressive victory is a testament to his dominance in both indoor and outdoor competitions. Since joining Repsol Honda HRC in 2007, he has won every available world title, solidifying his status as the ultimate icon of the sport.

Throughout his career, Bou has also won 18 titles in the TrialGP discipline, an unparalleled feat that underscores his exceptional skill and consistency. He has also excelled in the Trial des Nations, claiming 19 titles representing Spain. With 120 X-Trial participations, Bou has achieved 106 podium finishes, a staggering stat that reflects his high level of competition and consistency.

Bou’s impressive record continues to rewrite the history books, cementing his position as the greatest trial rider of all time. His 19th X-Trial World Championship is just the latest chapter in an already illustrious career, with more milestones expected in the future. With his impressive performance, Bou has set a new standard for trial riding, inspiring future generations of riders and solidifying his legacy in the sport.

Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) has launched a range of accessories for its electric scooters, the Activa e: and the QC1. The Activa e: is priced at Rs 1.17 lakh, while the QC1 is priced at Rs 90,000 (both ex-showroom). The accessories range includes 12 items, with prices starting from Rs 95 for a licence plate case to Rs 2,450 for a frunk. The accessories are available for both scooters, except for the frunk, which is specific to the Activa e:, and the charger bag, which is specific to the QC1.

Both scooters come with their unique features. The Activa e: is powered by a direct-drive permanent magnet motor producing 6 kW of power and 22 Nm of torque, with a range of 102 km on a full charge and a top speed of 80 kmph. The QC1, on the other hand, is powered by an in-wheel electric motor with a peak power output of 1.8 kW and a peak torque of 77 Nm, with a range of 80 kilometers.

To stay up-to-date with the latest news and reviews on the automotive industry, follow carandbike.com and tune in to the review of the Honda Activa e: and the QC1 electric scooters on March 24, 2025, at 2:00 PM IST.

Honda Australia has announced the appointment of new leadership for its Power Sports and Products division, with the aim of driving growth and innovation in the Australian market. Effective from 1 July 2022, Michael Hand will assume the role of Divisional Manager for Power Sports and Products, taking over from current Divisional Manager, Kiyoshi Sakamoto, who will be returning to Japan.

Michael Hand has over 20 years of experience in the powersports industry, with a strong background in sales, marketing, and product development. He was previously with KTM Australia and New Zealand, where he played a key role in growing the brand’s sales and market presence. Hand’s expertise in the powersports industry will be crucial in leading Honda’s Power Sports and Products division.

Hand’s appointment is seen as a strategic move by Honda to strengthen its position in the Australian market, particularly in the high-growth categories of off-road motorcycles and ATVs. Under his leadership, Honda is set to focus on expanding its product range, improving customer engagement, and enhancing the customer experience.

The new leadership team will include Shane Smyth as General Manager – Sales and Operations and Nick Stubbings as General Manager – Marketing and Product Development. Both Smyth and Stubbings have extensive experience in the automotive industry, with a focus on sales, marketing, and product development.

In a statement, Michael Hand expressed his excitement about the new role and the opportunities it presents. “I am thrilled to be joining Honda Australia and leading the Power Sports and Products division. I am committed to growing the business and strengthening our relationship with customers, partners, and the community.”

Honda’s announcement comes at a time when the motorcycle and powersports industry is experiencing unprecedented growth in Australia, driven by a renewed interest in outdoor activities and a growing demand for motorcycles and ATVs. With Michael Hand at the helm, Honda is poised to capitalize on this growth and solidify its position as a market leader in the Australian powersports industry.