Honda is taking a chance here, building "world cruisers" rather than American cruisers. Honda is gambling that the Guzzis, Triumphs, Diavel, even BMW's R1200C have all broken down enough of the "must be V-Twin" wall that has circumscribed cruiser design for the last 30 years to make these a success. Heck, the Valkyrie and Vision as well as the customs have played a role in expanding the style definition of a cruiser.
I've already had my hand slapped for calling the F6B a tourer. The review in CB noted that there was already a strong aftermarket filling in the feature gap for the F6B. And owners have already figured out a way to attach an HD trunk to them. Heck, I can visualize what the F6B would look like with my 60 lt camp bag strapped across the back -- and I like it. But that's not really the point.
I agree, that's probably their best use. I am thinking they would describe their target as the middle aged hip wealthy flashy party group... and the girls of course. They have money, and if they don't, they'll be compelled to borrow it. I have a neighbor that fits that category. They might not have quit as much money, but I think there are a lot more of them and a % do have the $. Bike night here in town there are about 600 bikes that stop by. The night I went, I only saw one Goldwing, one K1600, and my ST. I saw a lot of expensive bikes: cruisers, Harleys, and weekender bikers were quite common. I think that's their target market.
all dressed up and no where to go...
Here are two more variations on Honda's line-up. The Grom is coming to the US, don't know yet about the Bol D'Or.
The Grom (built and sold in Thailand) is pretty popular in S.E.A. The Bol D'Or has been around in Yerp for several years, but has been missing since (I think) 2010. Making a come back? I've always liked it.
Word is, there will also be a 400cc version of the Bol D'Or. Again, no word on US import.
What else? Oh, yea, the CBR250 is being bumped to 300. Wonder if they'll do the same to the CRF dual sport?
Honda might not be doing what we want but they are fur sur doing something. STay tuned.
I think they are there and painted black. At least I see a brake peddle for sure. This may be a DCT model and the clutch lever might actually be the rear brake.
Yes, in the current DCT line up the brake controls are standard motorcycle location.
This is how my Honda Silver Wing 600cc maxi-scooter was set up. It has/had a CVT and no pedals at all. The right lever was 60/40 front/back and the left lever was 40/60 front/back brakes (or maybe it was 70/30 - don't remember). It also had ABS.
Not that different. The NC700 also comes in scooter format. It think Honda fully intends to blur those lines also.
