Either I missed the 50-year celebration back in '98 or my recall is faulty (probably the latter), but I don't remember anything of note here in the US to mark the 1948 formation of the Honda Motor Company. But other markets got some special editions, notably the UK, Europe and Australia. Reader Bill, from Scotland, keeper of much Honda knowledge, sent along this photo of two 1998 VFR800 50th Anniversary specials. In his words:
"Both bikes were made for Honda's 50th Anniversary. The Red & Silver version was commissioned by Honda Europe and reportedly 2,500 were made. Colour scheme and use of early Honda Wing was homage to early Honda racing colours. The silver stripe on the tank related to the stainless steel quick release straps used on race bike tanks. Although there are reports of increased power in the Haynes manual and elsewhere, the engines were stock items. The ignition key was a special 50th Anniversary one.
Not being aware of Honda Europe plans, Honda UK did a batch of 50 each VFRs, VTRs, CBRs, Fireblades and Blackbirds. All had the Honda Britain colour scheme as raced by the late Joey Dunlop on the Isle of Man. The VFRs came with Proflex race shock, adjustable Harris rearsets and Remus high level stainless steel exhaust. Each bike has a yoke plaque with production number on it ( x of 50 ). Owners also received a 50th Anniversary cover and a paddock jacket."
"Both bikes were made for Honda's 50th Anniversary. The Red & Silver version was commissioned by Honda Europe and reportedly 2,500 were made. Colour scheme and use of early Honda Wing was homage to early Honda racing colours. The silver stripe on the tank related to the stainless steel quick release straps used on race bike tanks. Although there are reports of increased power in the Haynes manual and elsewhere, the engines were stock items. The ignition key was a special 50th Anniversary one.
Not being aware of Honda Europe plans, Honda UK did a batch of 50 each VFRs, VTRs, CBRs, Fireblades and Blackbirds. All had the Honda Britain colour scheme as raced by the late Joey Dunlop on the Isle of Man. The VFRs came with Proflex race shock, adjustable Harris rearsets and Remus high level stainless steel exhaust. Each bike has a yoke plaque with production number on it ( x of 50 ). Owners also received a 50th Anniversary cover and a paddock jacket."
RSS Feed