Honda DN-01 Sports Cruiser
Honda announced the final production version of the unique and innovative Honda DN-01 sports cruiser this March. This large sports cruiser will be sold in Japan and UK but it is not known whether the bike will be sold in the U.S.A.
Honda developed the DN-01 with the aim of “creating new value” without being locked into any existing category of motorcycle. While the automatic model has been synonymous with the scooter and has made a clear departure from motorcycles, Honda presents the automatic sports cruiser “DN-01″ featuring Honda’s unique infinitely variable hydraulic mechanical transmission, the “HFT” (Human Fitting Transmission). The DN-01 is easy to operate and offers a sporty ride.
The styling is fiercely original and creative. Pushing forward to create new value, the design aims for a long and low, modern organic look. The image created by the long-nose front cowl is highly dynamic, while the undercowl-muffler and Pro-Arm rear suspension add a functional beauty to the overall design.
“The DN-01 is the result of thoroughly pursuing a style that is luxurious and relaxing, easy and individualistic”, says Honda. They said that the remarkable transmission makes the DN-01 easy to operate, while providing the sporty ride quality.
The DN-01 is driven by a liquid-cooled four-stroke 680cc OHC V-twin 65HP engine, which delivers powerful and flat torque characteristics in both low-rpm and high-rpm ranges. A single-sided swingarm (Pro-Arm), acknowledged in the Goldwing and VFR, and a maintenance-free shaft drive with superior durability and quietness have been adopted for the drivetrain. Coupled to the V-twin is the ‘Infinitely Variable HFT Transmission’. This new-generation infinitely variable transmission delivers superb throttle response and stepless shifting, with no mid-corner shifting shocks. Riders can select from three shifting modes: Drive Mode, Sports Mode and 6-Speed Manual Mode. Moreover, the HFT offers the world’s first lock-up mechanism in an infinitely variable, hydraulic mechanical transmission, contributing to improve fuel economy during cruising.
The DN 01 offers a supremely comfortable riding position. The large seat is fitted with an adjustable backrest for plush comfort on long rides, while wide footboards allow maximum freedom of movement. Complemented by a low 680mm seat, the riding position is spacious and relaxing. Passengers are also comfortable, thanks to the ample and lengthy passenger seat. This new genre of motorcycle gives new enjoyment to both rider and passenger.
Coming to the brakes, the DN-01 features the Combined ABS, which is a combination of the Combined Brake System and the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), delivering powerful braking power.
Honda Ignition Security System, Honda’s unique anti-theft system uses an electronic interlock. The device is lets the engine to start only when the IC chip built into the original key and the ID in the ECU of motorcycle matches. Furthermore, an original system has been established for the DN-01 to provide a higher quality service. This new system functions with DN-01 dealer information network to manage the service history of the customer’s machine.
Pearl Sunbeam White, Pearl Amethyst Purple, Candy Glory Red and Graphite Black are the colors buyers can choose from.