Honda Crosses the Three Hundred Million Mark

Honda GoldwingWhen Honda first began manufacturing motorcycles in 1949, few would have imaged that the company would be what it is today.  Even after it became the world's largest manufacturer of motorcycles, very few people would have predicted that Honda would ever make three hundred million bikes.  But that's happened.  On November 25, 2014, the 300 millionth motorcycle rolled out of the Honda factory in Kumamoto, Japan.  It was a 2015 Goldwing, one of the luxurious bikes built for touring. 

The first Honda was a far cry from today's Goldwings.  The Model D had a pressed-steel frame, a 98cc engine, and a peanut tank.  It was a strange mixture of both European and American design.  However odd it may have been, it propelled Honda forward.  The Model D was followed by motorcycles like the Super Cub, many of which were huge hits.  In less than 20 years, the company went from a new name in the motorcycle industry to the largest manufacturer.  Since 1964, Honda has held that title, and it doesn't look like they'll be slowing down anytime soon.

Honda was also one of the first Japanese motorcycle companies to move into the American market.  The company began advertising in the U.S. during the 1960s and, while some derided the move, it paid off in a big way.  In just three years, Honda sold almost 100,000 bikes to Americans.  Their diversity and willingness to take risks led to the company selling thousands of motorcycles every year.  By 1982, Honda saw almost three million bikes roll off its assembly line.  While it no longer manufacturers such huge numbers, Honda still builds more bikes every year than any other Japanese motorcycle manufacturer.

With numbers like that, it's no wonder you see Hondas everywhere!  People love the brand so much many of them will stick Honda patches on their jackets.  Next time you need a new bike, maybe you should look at what makes Honda so special.

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