Honda Bulldog revealed
Under all that there’s a CB400F
HONDA has just taken the covers off its latest concept bike – the curious-looking Bulldog.
There are definite overtones of Zoomer scooter in the styling, with the rugged look of a bike that might be intended to take over quad duties on a farm, but under all that rough-and-tough metalwork there’s a fairly stock CB400F chassis and engine. If you’re not familiar with the CB400F, it’s the Japanese market version of our CB500F – identical in every way apart from a smaller-capacity version of the same parallel twin engine.
The big change is a switch from 17 inch to 15 inch wheels, with wide off-road rubber, and of course the chunky-looking bodywork. Which, apparently, makes it a ‘Lovable Touring Partner’ – whatever that might mean…
It was revealed today in Osaka, on the eve of the Osaka Motorcycle Show.
Here’s Honda’s official spiel:
OSAKA, Japan, March 20, 2015 - Honda today unveiled the world premiere of the BULLDOG as an exhibition model (concept model) at a press conference, at the 31st Osaka Motorcycle Show 2015.
The BULLDOG promotes a new world of leisure with motorcycles. The model was developed with the concept “Lovable Touring Partner,” and was designed to go beyond the boundaries of conventional leisure motorcycles, to actively enjoy outdoor life.
The BULLDOG’s 15-inch wide-tires and low center-of-gravity realize a low, 730mm seat height, ensuring a solid footing. Its unique robust, yet charming styling undoubtedly brings smiles to the faces of not only riders, but people who don’t usually ride motorcycles.
The liquid-cooled 4-stroke DOHC inline 2-cylinder 400cc engine has powerful, yet easy to handle output characteristics, realizing a nimble ride in a wide range of environments from urban to rural areas.
The BULLDOG is equipped with a carrier suitable for camping-touring, and features accessory storage on the sides of the fuel tank, which also act as a styling accent.
The BULLDOG, a playful, next-era concept model, will be exhibited at 42nd Tokyo Motorcycle Show from Friday, March 27 to Sunday, March 29 at Tokyo Big Sight.
