Honda’s hybrid tilting three-wheeled concept
No, we don’t think this one will go into production quite like this
HONDA’S floor-fillers for next month’s Tokyo Show will include this ‘NEOWING’ concept (their capitals, not ours) to preview the possibilities in both hybrid technology and leaning three-wheeled ideas.
While it’s a pure concept bike, elements are likely to make production. The flat four engine, bolstered by a hybrid electric system and semi-auto transmission, may well be related to the next-generation Goldwing, and the firm is believed to be working on a slightly more subdued-looking tilting trike that will use the same front suspension ideas as the NEOWING concept.
Here’s Honda’s official line on the bike at this stage: NEOWING is an unprecedented three-wheeled vehicle that offers the cornering feel and sporty ride equivalent to a large-sized motorcycle while realizing excellent stability in low-speed ranges. This vehicle is equipped with a hybrid system that combines a horizontally-opposed 4-cylinder engine and electric motors to generate plentiful torque for powerful acceleration. With the adoption of an original Honda linkage mechanism on its front wheel, this concept model proposes new values with advanced styling that emphasizes the mechanical fascination of a two-wheeled motorcycle model.
