The Honda Riding Assist-e Concept and the Honda
Monkey 125 have made their global debut at the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show today. The
former is a self-balancing electric two-wheeler while the latter is a 125cc
mini motorcycle.
The Honda Riding Assist-e Concept is similar to the
‘Honda Riding Assist’ Concept. The latter was a petrol-powered concept
motorcycle which Honda showcased at the 2017 CES (Consumer Electronics Show) in
Las Vegas. Rather than relying on gyroscopes, which are heavier; the two
motorcycles employ Honda’s robotics technology for self-balancing.
It achieves this by raking out the front forks and
then moving the front wheel back and forth. Honda has borrowed this technology
from the Honda UNI-CUB personal mobility device. The Riding Assist-e Concept
employs an electric powertrain as opposed to the internal combustion engine in
the previous concept.
The Honda Riding Assist-e Concept employs a uniquely
designed trellis frame which holds the battery and electric motor. The bike
uses a shaft drive on a single-sided swingarm to transfer the power, and the
motorcycle comes with multiple riding modes. For suspension, it uses telescopic
front forks and a Pro-link monoshock.
The Honda Monkey 125 employs a single cylinder 125cc
OHC engine. The motorcycle measures 1713 mm in length, 753 mm in width, and
1030 mm in height. The Monkey 125 has similar dimensions as that of the Honda
MSX125, making it even more practical.
The motorcycle comes with an all-LED lighting
system, digital instrument cluster and a single piece seat. An upside down
front fork and rear dual shock absorbers hold the knobby tyres. The front and
rear fender are raised for better off-road ability. The exhaust is along the
side of the rear subframe and features heat shield as well. Brakes include
discs on both ends.
