By Steve & Tamami Laser
Honda has adopted the name “Bulldog” for an all-new concept motorcycle that made its world premiere today during a press conference at the 31st Osaka Motorcycle Show in Japan. Honda says the rough and rugged design of the bike goes beyond the boundaries of conventional leisure motorcycles so riders can actively enjoy outdoor life.
Developed with the concept “Lovable Touring Partner,” Bulldog’s 15-inch tires and low center-of-gravity offer a low, 730mm seat height for solid footing. Like our four-legged friends of the same name, Bulldog’s robust yet charming personality “brings smiles to the faces” of not only riders, but people who don’t usually ride motorcycles.
Honda’s Bulldog concept is powered by a 400cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke DOHC inline 2-cylinder engine. Honda says the engine is built to provide powerful, yet easy to handle output characteristics, realizing a nimble ride in a wide range of environments from urban to rural areas.
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. As a concept bike, Honda has not announced any plans to put Bulldog into production. Yet if show-goers are smitten by this lovable beast, we wouldn’t be surprised to see it being put up for adoption at Honda Motorcycle dealers in Japan.
In addition to Bulldog premiering at both shows, here’s a preview of some of the 20 other concept and production models on display. Under the slogan “We Love Bikes,” Honda proposes a “fun-filled lifestyle with motorcycles by actively communicating with show visitors.”
CRF250 RALLY (Exhibition/Concept model) – An adventure model based on the CRF250L with styling image inspired by the CRF450 RALLY.
SFA (Exhibition/Concept model) – Street-fighter style light-weight motorcycle with a single cylinder engine mounted on a trellis frame.
RC213V-S (Exhibition/Prototype model) – The ultimate road-going motorcycle sharing its main mechanism with the RC213V MotoGP works machine.
True Adventure (Exhibition/Prototype model) – Prototype model incorporating the racing technology of CRF450 RALLY HRC works machine.
Production models on display highlight the CB series, Gold Wing, VFR800X and GROM. Displayed models will be equipped with aftermarket parts such as dress-up parts and accessories.
News source and photos courtesy of Honda Motorcycle Japan Co., Ltd. (Product information applies to the Japanese market)
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