HONDA DN-01 and CR230M in U.S. for '09

Honda is releasing the DN-01 to the U.S. motorcycle market. The new design features a 4-valve, 680cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine sending power through the HFT transmission, a continuously variable, hydromechanical automatic. It has 2 automatic modes, (D) drive and (S) sport plus a 6 speed push button manual mode. The HFT has a lock up mode for cruising to increase fuel economy. The DN-01 also has combined ABS, a front and rear linked system with ABS. It carries 4 gallons of fuel and weighs 595 pounds. It’s available in Candy Dark Red and Black. MSRP $14,599.

I have a hunch this one will go over pretty well, especially with those riders looking for an automatic but not a scooter, there’s been a lot of interest ever since it was first revealed and quite a few of you have written in wondering if it was coming to the U.S. It looks like the answer is yes. All of the details are below:

UPDATE:
Be sure to check out the overlay images at the end of this article created by Brian Case. Very interesting.


Honda press release:
Honda’s reputation for forging new categories in motorcycling takes its latest form in the radical DN-01. This futuristic machine combines true sporting performance with a fully-automatic transmission, a low seat height and exceptional style.

Unique Features
- Powerful 4-valve, 680cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine.
- HFT transmission is a continuously variable, hydromechanical design that automatically and seamlessly changes drive ratios to produce strong, smooth acceleration. Unlike conventional belt-drive designs, HFT is compact, quiet, no scheduled maintenance, and features two automatic modes and a six-speed manual mode with push-button shifting.
- Low 27.2-inch seat height assures flat-footed confidence when stopped.
- Large-diameter 41mm front fork and single-shock Pro Arm® Rear Suspension (see Technology Section) provide a sporting ride on low-profile Z-rated radial tires.
- Combined ABS (LBS-ABS, see Technology Section) triple-disc brake system for sure-footed braking in varying conditions.
—Combined Braking System (CBS) provides excellent braking power for added confidence in a wide range of operating conditions. CBS applies front braking force whenever the rear brake is operated. On the DN-01, equipped with dual front disc brakes with three-piston calipers and a twin-piston rear caliper, rider application of the front-brake lever activates all six brake pistons in the front calipers. Application of the rear-brake pedal activates the dual pistons of the rear caliper and the center piston of the front-left caliper.

—Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS w/CBS) utilizes modulators—one each on the front and rear wheels—driven directly by specially developed electric motors. In operation, an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) monitors wheel and vehicle speed. If one of both of the wheels approach a locking condition, the modulators, via a signal from the ECU, lower hydraulic pressure by acting directly on the brake piston(s). As wheel speed re-approaches motorcycle speed, the hydraulic pressure is increased. This entire process is repeated numerous times in just one second, resulting in optimal braking pressure and enhanced rider control.

- Beautiful aerodynamic design provides protection from the elements.

Engine/Drivetrain
- Compact 680cc, liquid-cooled SOHC 52-degree V-Twin provides substantial torque and power for everyday commuting and spirited backroad riding.
- Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI, see Technology Section) with twin 40mm throttle bodies and high-performance 12-hole injectors provide excellent throttle response and fuel economy while contributing to low emissions.