American Honda Announces 2012 Amateur Support Program

TORRANCE, CA – March 5, 2012 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – American Honda proudly announces its Amateur Trackside Motocross support program for the 2012 season. This year’s program will provide support to all Honda racers at the following events: Daytona Amateur Supercross, World Mini Grand Prix, Hangtown Amateur Motocross, Loretta Lynn’s Amateur Motocross Championships, Branson Motocross and Mini Olympics.

“We are really excited to once again provide national-caliber technical support to Honda amateur racers regardless of their racing classification or age,” said Ray Conway, Honda Race Director, Motorcycle Sports. “With a mix of National Championship races and regional events scheduled, we can provide assistance to Honda riders who wouldn’t otherwise get such assistance.”

This trackside support program follows the announcement of Honda’s 2012 Red Riders Reward program, where Honda owners have more than 28,000 opportunities to earn payouts at more than 600 race events across the United States. For program details and a list of all eligible units, visit HondaRedRiders.com.

About Honda
American Honda Motor Co., Inc. is the sole distributor of Honda motorcycles, scooters, ATVs, MUVs and personal watercraft in the U.S.  American Honda’s Motorcycle Division conducts the sales, marketing, and operational activities for these products through authorized Honda dealers. For more information on Honda products, go to www.powersports.honda.com.

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American Honda Supports Lead Ban Exemption for OHVs

TORRANCE, CA – August 19, 2011 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – American Honda Motor Co., Inc., extends heartfelt congratulations to the many individuals – off-road riding enthusiasts, powersports industry members, consumer groups, legislators and more – who have extended relentless efforts to gain an exemption for youth Off-Highway Vehicles (OHVs) from the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) of 2008, known as the lead law. On August 12, 2011, H.R. 2715 became law, exempting youth OHVs from the restrictions of the CPSIA so that parents and children can once again enjoy motorized recreation as a family.

“Three years ago, the entire industry sent out a call to mobilize all riding enthusiasts to combat the unintended consequences of the CPSIA,” said Powersports Press Manager Bill Savino. “The fact that H.R. 2715 has become law really emphasizes how much we all can do when we pull together to protect our sport. This is a proud day for all Powersports enthusiasts.”

The CPSIA, which went into effect on February 10, 2009, banned the making, importing, distributing or selling of any product intended for children 12 and under that contained more than a specified amount of lead in any accessible part, such as cylinder heads, carburetors, and tire valve stem, regardless of whether they presented any real risk of lead exposure. This, in essence, created a ban on the sale of youth motorcycles and ATVs. The enactment of H.R. 2715 to exempt youth off-road recreational vehicles stands as a great accomplishment for the millions of riders who advocate safe and responsible OHV recreation.

About Honda
American Honda Motor Co., Inc., is the sole distributor of Honda motorcycles, scooters, ATVs and MUVs in the U.S. American Honda’s Motorcycle Division conducts the sales, marketing and operational activities for these products through authorized Honda dealers. For more information on Honda products, go to powersports.honda.com.

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Honda NSF250R Coming to the U.S.

TORRANCE, CA – August 3, 2011 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – American Honda Motor Co., Inc., is proud to announce the upcoming arrival in the USA of the 2012 HRC NSF250R. Newly developed for FIM GP road racing competition in the Moto3 class, the NSF250R is powered by an all-new liquid-cooled single-cylinder 249cc four-stroke engine specifically designed for racing. In 2012, this globally distributed model will also be legal in the USGPRU Moto 3 and WERA Motorcycle Road Racing classes in the USA, as well as in other local racing events.

Technical highlights include a front-intake/rear-exhaust configuration with high charging efficiency, plus an engine layout with the cylinder tilted back 15 degrees to concentrate mass. To generate strong power throughout the high-rpm range, the NSF250R incorporates titanium valves for both intake and exhaust to reduce friction and lighten the valve train. Furthermore, the design reduces friction between piston and cylinder and improves durability by offsetting the cylinder centerline and applying nickel silicon carbide (Ni-SiC) for the cylinder surface treatment. The cassette gearbox design was selected for quick and easy gearset changes for the close-ratio, six-speed transmission, thereby allowing gear selection to be optimized over a large variety of racing circuits. This lightweight, well-balanced machine offers impressive power output and superb handling to achieve a great blend of high performance plus rider-friendly traits well suited to up-and-coming racers.

“This is a great opportunity for people who want to start road racing with a full-on track bike,” said Keith Dowdle, Assistant Manager Honda Riders Club of America® (HRCA®). “Now riders have the option of buying a purpose-built race-ready motorcycle right out of the box, as an alternative to modifying a street bike—all at a reasonable price. Just as off-road riders can purchase and race one of our full-on CRF450R or CRF250R motocross bikes, now road racers have the means to buy a race-ready track bike.”

In the United States, the NSF250R will be included in American Honda’s 2012 racing contingency program with levels of awards similar to those granted to racers competing on CBR models. Complete contingency payout details will follow with the 2012 contingency program announcement. The NSF250R will be made available to all Honda motorcycle dealers who wish to become an authorized NSF250R dealer, and delivery is estimated for February 2012. However, dealers will only be able to place orders up to the cutoff date of September 2, 2011, so riders planning to purchase an NSF250R will need to visit their dealer before that date to place an order. MSRP for the NSF250R has been established at $28,599.

For more information and images, go to http://powersports.honda.com/racing/road/headlines.aspx.

About Honda
American Honda Motor Co., Inc., is the sole distributor of Honda motorcycles, scooters, ATVs and MUVs in the U.S. American Honda’s Motorcycle Division conducts the sales, marketing and operational activities for these products through authorized Honda dealers. For more information on Honda products, go to powersports.honda.com.

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Trey Canard Returns to Motocross

TORRANCE, CA – July 14,2011 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – American Honda Racing’s Trey Canard will make his return to AMA Motocross racing this weekend at the Spring Creek Motocross National in Millville, MN. Canard returns to racing aboard his factory Honda–prepared CRF450R, having recovered from the leg injury that he sustained earlier in the year while training for the Motocross season.

“Knowing that I’m only days away from racing again and to be racing my first-ever 450-class Motocross event feels awesome,” said Canard. “Since getting back on my bike and training for motos, everything has gone smoothly. I love riding the CRF450R and can’t wait to race it outdoors. I’ve been riding a lot at home in Oklahoma, and I’ve spent time in Southern California testing with the Honda team. I feel really good and the team has given me a lot of support. However, I expect it will take a little while to get up to full race speed.”

“We are excited to see what Trey can do at the remaining six rounds in the Motocross series,” said American Honda Racing Team Manager Erik Kehoe. “Trey has made a lot of progress in a short period of time since getting back on his bike. He’s an incredibly focused and determined racer, and I think that within a few races he will be mixing it up with the front-runners.”

About American Honda
American Honda Motor Co., Inc., is the sole distributor of Honda motorcycles, scooters, ATVs, MUVs and personal watercraft in the U.S. American Honda’s Powersports Division conducts the sales, marketing and operational activities for these products through authorized Honda dealers. For more information on Honda products, go to www.powersports.honda.com.

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More 2012 Hondas Fill the Ranks

TORRANCE, CA – July 1, 2011 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – The 2012 model year continues to gain momentum as American Honda Motor Company announced today the next release of new models. This latest update brings a quartet of off-road motorcycles, two sport ATVs and one popular and enduring street bike. These new-model releases include the popular CRF450X and CRF250X for off-road enthusiasts; the family-friendly CRF230F and CRF150F trail bikes; the much-acclaimed TRX450R and TRX250X sport ATVs; and the Rebel®, one of the best small-displacement bikes to grace American roadways.

“This latest release highlights a variety of machines available to Honda customers,” said Powersports Press Manager Bill Savino. “Here we have a big assortment of off-road machines suitable for the entire family, plus a great beginner bike that has given thousands of street riders a friendly introduction to our sport. And this isn’t everything for 2012; we’ll have even more good news to share about additional new releases coming out soon.”

More detailed information and images of Honda’s model line can be found on www.powersports.honda.com or see your local Honda powersports dealer.

CRF450X: World-Class Credentials
The CRF450X has won the world-renowned and ultra-rugged Baja 1000 and Baja 500 races multiple times—enough to rightfully earn its reputation as the King of Baja. But even if you’re planning a weekend of relaxed trail riding rather than aiming for a prestigious off-road racing victory, the CRF450X offers equally impressive credentials for a weekend of fun rides. Availability: October

CRF250X: Impeccably Balanced Performance
It’s the machine that delivers a just-right balance of light weight, exemplary handling and tractable four-stroke power: the CRF250X. This handy, agile and thoroughly capable off-road mount flat-out sets the standard for 250-class performance among the off-road crowd whether you’re into racing or just fun-time explorations through the woods. Availability: October

CRF230F: Playbike-Oriented Excellence
Within the realm of recreation riding, the CRF230F stands tall: motorcycling magazines the world over have complimented this midsized off-road machine for its many playbike-oriented attributes. With the ease of electric starting, it’s the perfect match for all-day fun and off-road adventure. Availability: November

 

CRF150F: Sized Right for Beginners and More
Not too big, and not too small—the CRF150F is just the right size to suit beginning riders and experienced adults equally well. And thanks to its moderate chassis dimensions, easy-to-use four-stroke power, electric starter and more rider-friendly features, the CRF150F is just the ticket for entering, exploring and thoroughly enjoying the world of off-road fun. Availability: November

TRX450R: High-Performance Standout
The TRX450R stands tall as one mighty, impressive machine, having won races in virtually every form of ATV racing, as well as racking up a string of exciting wins in the grueling Baja 1000. At the same time, these remarkable performance credentials also keep the TRX450R at the top of the popularity charts for recreational riders too. Availability: September

 

TRX250X: Perennial Midsized Favorite
Aggressive, race-inspired styling gives the TRX250X a distinctly sporty look. In addition, new Maxxis Razr Vantage tires add to the aggressive image while adding improved sport performance. And thanks to a torquey powerplant and Honda’s innovative and easy-to-use SportClutch™ plus other great features, this fun-to-ride midsized machine remains a favorite among beginners as well as longtime riders. Availability: TBD

Rebel: Longstanding Entry to Street Riding
For years and years, the Rebel has remained a favorite among entry-level street riders—and for good reason. Its stylish good looks maintain an enduring appeal, it’s comfortable, light in weight and easy to maneuver, gets great gas mileage, and its durability has grown to legendary proportions. Whether you’re running errands around town or heading out of town for a riding adventure, the Rebel serves as a great riding partner. Availability: September

About Honda
American Honda Motor Co., Inc., is the sole distributor of Honda motorcycles, scooters, ATVs, MUVs and personal watercraft in the US. American Honda’s Motorcycle Division conducts the sales, marketing and operational activities for these products through authorized Honda dealers. For more information on Honda products, go to www.powersports.honda.com.

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Kevin Windham to Race Additional Motocross Events

TORRANCE, CA – June 23, 2011 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – American Honda Racing announced today that Kevin Windham will continue competing in the 2011 AMA Motocross Championship with the factory Honda team at select events. Windham had originally planned to complete his fill-in role after the return of Josh Grant at the Budds Creek National last weekend, but after posting solid results, including a strong fourth-place finish last weekend, Windham has decided to race additional rounds of the AMA Motocross series. Teammate Trey Canard has just begun training and riding once more, and is working on making his return to racing as soon as possible.

“I’ve had a great time riding Motocross this season,” said Windham. “It’s been so much fun, I’m going to race at least a few more rounds. The fans have played a big role in my decision. The crowd support at each race has been kind of overwhelming. I can hear them cheering me on all around the track and so many people come by the transporter to see me and talk with me that I’m just amazed. I’m really enjoying the racing and everything else at the track, and I feel like I have good momentum going into Colorado after finishing just shy of the podium last weekend at Budds Creek.”

American Honda Racing Team Manager Erik Kehoe supports Windham’s decision to continue racing Motocross. “It’s great to see Kevin having so much fun racing,” said Kehoe. “He loves interacting with fans and the fans love coming to see him and talk with him. He’s got an incredible fan base all around the country. And even though he’s concentrated on riding Supercross only for the past several years, Kevin has put in a number of impressive outdoor rides in 2011. It’s been a good run, and I’m excited to see how all this plays out.”

About American Honda
American Honda Motor Co., Inc., is the sole distributor of Honda motorcycles, scooters, ATVs, MUVs and personal watercraft in the U.S. American Honda’s Powersports Division conducts the sales, marketing and operational activities for these products through authorized Honda dealers. For more information on Honda products, go to www.powersports.honda.com.

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Windham, Fiolek and Reed Primed for Motocross Opener

TORRANCE, CA – May 19, 2011 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – With the start of the 2011 AMA Motocross Championship and AMA WMA Women’s Motocross Championship only days away, American Honda Racing is primed and ready to take on the opening round in the series, the Hangtown Motocross Classic, held in Sacramento, CA, this Saturday, May 21.

Veteran Honda racer Kevin Windham joins American Honda Racing’s Ashley Fiolek under the team’s big red tent at the Motocross opener. Windham will contest the 450 class aboard a Honda Racing-prepared CRF450R, while two-time Women’s champion Fiolek takes on the WMA class aboard her Honda CRF250R. American Honda Racing’s Trey Canard and Josh Grant are both recovering from injuries suffered during the Supercross series and are on track to make their returns to racing early in the Motocross season.

Honda newcomer Chad Reed and his newly formed TwoTwo Motorsports team enjoyed the support of American Honda during the Supercross season, and Reed vied for the championship, coming away with the runner-up spot. The factory Honda team and TwoTwo Motorsports worked well together, and that cooperative effort continues into the Motocross Championship as Reed aims for his second 450-class title.

“We’re really excited for the Motocross season to get underway,” said American Honda Racing Team Manager Erik Kehoe. “Both Kevin and Ashley are riding well, and we anticipate a strong showing from both riders in Sacramento. In addition to supporting the American Honda Racing riders at Hangtown, the team is also looking forward to supporting Chad and his TwoTwo Motorsports team throughout the season. American Honda is lending its full support to Chad as he contests his first Motocross season on a Honda.”

The Hangtown National will take place at Prairie City OHV Park in Rancho Cordova, CA. Gates open at 7 a.m. PDT and opening ceremonies begin at 12:40 p.m.

About American Honda
American Honda Motor Co., Inc., is the sole distributor of Honda motorcycles, scooters, ATVs, MUVs and personal watercraft in the U.S. American Honda’s Powersports Division conducts the sales, marketing and operational activities for these products through authorized Honda dealers. For more information on Honda products, go to www.powersports.honda.com.

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Honda Red Riders’ Stellar Supercross Season

TORRANCE, CA – May 12, 2011 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – American Honda congratulates the Honda Red Riders for their outstanding performances during the 2011 AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship, following a season of great racing—and great drama. A solid contingent of Honda racers vied for championships on their CRF250Rs and CRF450Rs throughout a season that showcased some of the closest racing in years. In the process, they earned a great deal of success including the Supercross Lites East Championship for Justin Barcia, as well as the runner-up spots in Supercross by Chad Reed and Supercross Lites West competition by Eli Tomac.

Early in the season, American Honda Racing’s Josh Grant suffered an injury that kept him sidelined, but teammate Trey Canard proved himself one of the hottest riders in the Supercross class by finishing on the podium six times in his rookie season, including winning three Supercross events. Canard was fifth overall in the championship, only 20 points out of the lead, when he suffered a crash during practice that resulted in a non-displaced leg fracture that took him out of the remaining Supercross season. His stellar results in his first full Supercross class season earned him fifth overall for the season as well as the esteemed AMA Rookie of the Year Award.

However, there were still a number of seasoned Honda Red Riders on hand to carry the racing banner forward. Honda newcomer TwoTwo Motorsports’ Chad Reed took his first win of the season at San Diego, and he made the most of his opportunities right up to the finale in Las Vegas where he took his second race win this year. Finishing on 11 of 17 podiums, Reed’s consistent results were enough to lock down second place in the championship. GEICO Powersports Honda’s Kevin Windham also started strong in the Vegas finale, leading the race until a crash took him out while running in second position. Still and all, Windham had a strong season and finished seventh overall.

In the Supercross Lites East Championship, GEICO Honda’s Justin Barcia finished on every podium of the nine-round series, including three wins, to clinch his first-ever Supercross Lites crown—despite riding nearly the entire series with a broken wrist. Going into the final Las Vegas round, Barcia had a solid 20-point lead in the series over his nearest rival. While he could have taken the easy way to the title, he grabbed the holeshot and opened up a gap over the rest of the field. However, on lap three he went down and relinquished the lead. Still, Barcia was able to recover to finish third and handily capture the 2011 Supercross Lites East Championship. Barcia’s teammate Blake Wharton ended the season with a strong fifth in the standings.

In the Supercross Lites West Championship, GEICO Honda’s Eli Tomac had an outstanding rookie season, capturing two wins and finishing on six podiums. Fellow Honda racer Troy Lee Designs/Lucas Oil/Honda’s Cole Seely was also a two-time winner. At the final Las Vegas round, Seely led the race while title contender Tomac trailed close behind. Seely lost the lead after a small crash yet still battled within the top five while Tomac continued to fight his way to the front. Tomac’s fourth-place finish secured enough points to finish the year in second place.

The Honda Red Riders now turn their efforts toward preparing for the upcoming Motocross Championship. The season gets underway at the Hangtown Motocross Classic in Sacramento, CA, on May 21.

About American Honda

American Honda Motor Co., Inc., is the sole distributor of Honda motorcycles, scooters, ATVs, MUVs and personal watercraft in the U.S. American Honda’s Powersports Division conducts the sales, marketing and operational activities for these products through authorized Honda dealers. For more information on Honda products, go to www.powersports.honda.com.

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American Honda Announces More 2012 Models

TORRANCE, CA – May 2, 2011 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – American Honda Motor Company introduces another wave of machines for the 2012 model year, which include a wide assortment of dual-sport and off-road motorcycles, ATVs and the Big Red™ MUV. These 2012 models emphasize the far-ranging options that Honda brings to customers and this broad array of machines also underscores another exciting new season for Honda. This release of 2012 models includes: the CRF450R, CRF250R and CRF150R/RB motocross machines; the dual-sport XR650L; Honda’s popular selection of small-displacement recreational off-road bikes, the CRF100F, CRF80F, CRF70F and CRF50F; a host of ATVs including the FourTrax® Rancher® family, the FourTrax® Recon®, TRX400X and TRX90X; plus the versatile Big Red. In addition to these models, a host of new 2012 Honda Genuine Accessories are available that encompass the quality, performance and fit and finish you expect of all Honda products.

“Over the years, riding enthusiasts have come to know, appreciate and trust the wide diversity of machines that Honda offers,” said Powersports Press Manager Bill Savino. “This extensive release of 2012 models serves as a perfect example of how we strive to meet the many needs of today’s riding enthusiasts. This latest new-model release will fulfill the needs of many riders, but I’m excited to add that in addition to these models, we have even more new releases to follow later this year.”

More detailed information and images of Honda’s model line can be found on http://www.powersports.honda.com or see your local Honda powersports dealer.

- CRF450R: Setting a New Standard
Since its introduction, the CRF450R has served as the standard by which all other bikes are judged in the big-bore class of motocross machines. In 2012, Honda raises the bar once again with a host of improvements that will help the CRF450R stay at the head of the pack. A new, stiffer fork outer tube among other refinements bring a more solid feel to the front end, and stiffer fork springs, revised suspension settings front and rear plus a new shock linkage yield improved tracking, more precise handling and added rider confidence over rough terrain. New, longer and wider footpegs offer more support with a larger platform and Dunlop’s premium MX51 tires add to an overall package that makes the CRF450R the bike of choice in the 450 class for 2012. Availability: July 2011.

- CRF250R: A Winning Combination Grows Stronger
Superb handling and excellent power stand as the hallmarks of the CRF250R, and the revised 2012 model ups the ante in the 250 class. A new cylinder head, camshaft and 46mm throttle body produce a broadened powerband featuring more low-end and midrange torque for an amazing, right-now hit of power. In addition, a new suspension linkage and updated suspension settings front and rear bestow improved tracking and more precise handling upon the CRF250R, enhancements that make a great-handling bike even better than before. In addition to those changes, longer and wider footpegs deliver more support and Dunlop’s premium MX51 tires cap off championship-caliber credentials that make the CRF250R the bike to beat in 2012. Availability: August 2011.

- CRF150RB-Expert/CRF150R: Back and Better Than Ever
Back in the lineup as a 2012 model, the revolutionary CRF150RB-Expert/CRF150R steps up to an even higher level of performance. Thanks to several key engine updates, this 2012 model boasts improved power, torque and driveability throughout the powerband. Updated suspension settings front and rear produce improved action through even the toughest of track conditions. All of which reinforce the CRF150R’s premier position in racing circles. Availability: August 2011.

- XR650L: The Legend Continues
In truth, the XR650L has grown to become a legend in its own time—and for good reason. Whether the road ahead holds dirt roads, single-track trails, highways or byways, the XR650L serves as the key that opens the door to riding adventures and good times. For years, devotees of the XR650L have trusted this do-it-all mount to transport them to all kinds of far-flung destinations and back again. And for 2012, the much-beloved XR650L returns to accomplish all kinds of two-wheeled missions once more. Availability: July 2011.

- A Family Gathering: CRF50F, CRF70F, CRF80F and CRF100F
For years, Honda has offered a full line of off-road bikes stair-cased in size and displacement to meet the specific needs of riders just entering the sport. That tradition continues in 2012 with the CRF® line of family bikes beginning with the automatic-clutch-equipped CRF50F and CRF70F that both feature low seat heights and light weights that work to the advantage of those new to riding. The next rung up features the CRF80F and CRF100F, two bikes that offer manual clutches with smooth, progressive action—just right for mastering the knack of clutch starts and manual shifting. No matter which of these four you may select for the job at hand, each and every one offers the famous quality and reliability that keeps Honda at the top of the list for families that ride. Availability: August 2011.

- FourTrax Rancher Family: Built to Work—and Play
Over the years, the hard-working FourTrax Rancher series of Honda ATVs have proven to be exceptionally dependable riding partners whether the day calls for hard work or loads of fun. From sunup to sundown, these hard-working machines simply get the job done thanks to a torque-laden liquid-cooled fuel-injected 420cc engine. From that well-proven starting point, the list of configurations truly abounds: 2WD or 4WD, manual transmission, Honda’s Electric Shift Program that makes gear shifts as easy as punching a button, or a fully automatic transmission. There’s also a choice of Electric Power Steering plus much, much more. With so much to choose from, it’s easy to see why the FourTrax Rancher family continues to stand out as one of the best picks in the world of ATVs. Availability: Summer 2011.

- Class Act: FourTrax Recon/ FourTrax Recon ES
Since the inception of this classy ATV, thousands of riders have made the Honda FourTrax Recon a best seller, and that’s just the way it should be. A remarkably torquey 229cc OHV engine pumps out delightful levels of performance, while its size enhances its agile handling traits. With the option of a manual gearbox or Honda’s push-button Electric Shift Program (ESP®) the FourTrax Recon continues to deliver just-right performance that gets the job done seven days a week. Availability: July 2011.

- Bring On the Performance and More: TRX400X
The TRX400X enjoys a well-deserved reputation for bringing aggressive styling and high performance to the ranks of sport ATVs. The bulletproof 397cc RFVC (Radial Four-Valve Combustion Chamber) engine has earned its place as one of the all-time great engines by offering both power and durability in spades. Yet thoughtful amenities such as a five-speed transmission plus Reverse gear and electric starting bolster the fun part of the equation as well. All in all, the TRX400X delivers all the goods for those in search of a performance-packed ATV that also includes Honda’s legendary excellence of design. Availability: July 2011.

- Best Foot Forward: TRX90X
When it’s time to introduce off-road riders to the world of ATVs, the TRX90X serves as the ideal starting point. While the TRX90X carries the same styling cues that place it right alongside its big brother sport ATVs, it also offers a smooth power delivery and Honda’s renowned reliability. Factor in the ease of electric starting, Honda’s durable automatic clutch and a refined suspension system, and you have the perfect combination for launching a new beginner off to a great start on a lifelong riding career. Availability: August 2011.

- Big Red: The World’s Hardest Working MUV
In 2011 Honda brought a load of upgrades to the Big Red Multipurpose Utility Vehicle (MUV), and these changes continue to elevate this hard-working machine way ahead of all other options. Credit its multiple patents and numerous automotive-based technology features for the praise Big Red has garnered for its superior handling, secure feel and comfortable ride. Yet it works harder than ever, thanks to its 675cc liquid-cooled fuel-injected engine, recently upgraded load carrying and towing capacities, revised suspension, contoured bench seat for easier entry/exit and a Roll Over Protection Structure (ROPS) that meets OSHA requirements. Availability: August 2011.

About Honda
American Honda Motor Co., Inc. is the sole distributor of Honda motorcycles, scooters, ATVs, MUVs and personal watercraft in the U.S. American Honda’s Motorcycle Division conducts the sales, marketing and operational activities for these products through authorized Honda dealers. For more information on Honda products, go to www.powersports.honda.com.

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Honda Vies For Supercross Top Spots

TORRANCE, CA – April 27, 2011 – (Motor Sports Newswire) -

As the 2011 Supercross Championship enters the home stretch, American Honda is gearing up for an exciting title showdown at the final round in Las Vegas on May, 7. For 37 years Honda has amassed an unparalleled win record in AMA Supercross and Motocross, winning more championships than any other manufacturer, and that record is set to increase as Honda riders vie for the top spots in the Supercross and Supercross Lites East and West Championships.

Honda newcomer TwoTwo Motorsports’ Chad Reed is six points out of the Supercross Championship lead with two rounds remaining. With American Honda Racing’s Trey Canard and Josh Grant both sidelined with injuries, the American Honda team is lending its full support to the TwoTwo Motorsports team as Reed vies for his first title on a Honda CRF450R.

In the Lites championships, CRF250R racers GEICO Honda’s Justin Barcia and Eli Tomac are also preparing to add to Honda’s win record. Barcia has a 20-point lead in the Supercross Lites East Championship with one round remaining, while Tomac is only seven points out of the championship lead in the Supercross Lites West Championship with two rounds remaining.

“The TwoTwo Motorsports team has done an awesome job all season long,” said American Honda Racing Team Manager Erik Kehoe. “Chad has done a great job putting together a highly talented team to support his 2011 racing efforts. We would love to see Chad win the Supercross title in his first season on a Honda. It’s also great to see the GEICO Honda team having such a strong season. Justin and Eli have also had tremendous success this year. We wish all these guys good luck in the final rounds.”

In addition to supporting Honda’s Supercross efforts, the American Honda Racing team’s preparations for the upcoming Motocross Championship are well underway. Both Canard and Grant are focused on making returns to racing early in the Motocross season. Additionally, fan-favorite and Honda racing veteran Kevin Windham will be racing the first few outdoor Motocross Nationals on the American Honda Racing team until Canard and Grant return to the outdoor National circuit. Windham will make his debut at the season-opener Hangtown National alongside American Honda Racing teammate Ashley Fiolek, who will be contesting the Women’s Motocross Association (WMA) Championship.

“The outdoor Nationals are something special,” said Windham. “The speed is not something you find in Supercross, and I’m pumped to be able to race for American Honda. The bike is good and I’m ready. We’ll just have to see what happens.”

“Getting hurt so late in the Supercross season was a bitter pill to swallow,” said Canard. “Especially since I was among the top contenders for the Supercross title. However, I’m doing what I need to do in order to make a full recovery and return to racing early in the Motocross Championship.”

Grant too is on target to make his return early in the season. “Since undergoing knee surgery a few months back, I’ve been receiving therapy on my knee on a daily basis,” explains Grant. “I’ve worked intensely with my doctor and healed fast. I’m really looking forward to the upcoming Motocross season and excited to rejoin the American Honda Racing team as soon as possible.”

Few Supercross championships in history have headed to such an exciting conclusion, so don’t miss the action and make sure to stop by the American Honda Racing transporter located in the paddock.

About American Honda

American Honda Motor Co., Inc., is the sole distributor of Honda motorcycles, scooters, ATVs, MUVs and personal watercraft in the U.S. American Honda’s Powersports Division conducts the sales, marketing and operational activities for these products through authorized Honda dealers. For more information on Honda products, go to www.powersports.honda.com.

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