Honda Motorcycles has announced the latest updates to its ‘ 2021 year model ’ European scooter and motorcycle range .
Updates to six key models - and one new model name - span the Honda product worlds of commuter , adventure and roadster , and follow updates already announced to eleven other machines . One such model caught our eye ; the X-ADV .
First released as a concept in 2016 the X-ADV takes the scooter world to another level with a machine said to be capable of taking on most adventures .
The thought processes that led to its birth ? Consider the attributes of the average adventure-style motorcycle – tough go-anywhere appeal , an upright riding position giving superb visibility and remarkable all-round usefulness , work or play . Then take a look at the typical commuter ; it might be a scooter or motorcycle , but in either case it will be easy to manage , nimble and loaded with convenience , efficiency and useful storage space . Honda ’ s engineers combined the two together , and something different happened .
The machine they created had a rugged , stylish SUV image fully at home navigating the urban sprawl . And while it was loaded with all of the premium features that enable easy life in the big city , it also had the looks , engine power and chassis ability to inject every ride with the promise of adventure .
The X-ADV captured the essence of two-wheeled freedom in an exciting new form and garnered the attention of an army of riders around Europe , eager for something new , and has proved itself a genuine sales success . And , proving its off-road credentials , in the hands of seasoned Italian racer Renato Zocchi a slightly modified version took overall Class 2 victory in the gruelling 7,000km 2019 Gibraltar Rally .
And the X-ADV is not standing still . For 2021 Honda is upping its engine performance , trimming weight , enhancing style and adding even more usefulness . Making the X-ADV even cooler and more desirable in the process .
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