Honda's Tearaway NT1100 Sports Tourer

Is it a rival to the established big-bore sports touring bikes like BMW's S1000R. Terry McCarthy swung a leg over to find out. Photographs Roderick Eime

The NT1100 is available in two versions. Manual 6-speed transmission and Dual Clutch 6 speed transmission (DCT). The gunmetal black version I rode was the manual transmission version. The standard transmission model is also available in iridium grey. Those opting for the DCT will be limited to gunmetal black and their bike will weigh slightly more. 238kg for the standard, 248kg for the DCT.

CR-V’s Outback Odyssey

Honda Magazine: Issue 51

It’s fair to say that not everyone driving a Honda CR-V was anticipating a gruelling cross-country safari, but that’s exactly what we did.

Against a backdrop of the harsh Australia outback, one expects to see hardcore, fully-tricked 4WD beasts bristling massive spotlights and armoured with bullbars and winches. But the otherwise meek, mild Honda CR-V took us on an odyssey across sweeping plains and parched deserts in a relaxed comfort more akin to a family sedan.

Out on the open road, CR-V cruises effortlessly and economically, gobbling up the miles but not the fuel. We enjoyed 10.0L/100km across our 3000 kilometre trek without too much regard to peddle pressure. As our journey progressed from well-dressed bitumen to naked limestone, the CR-V was able to adapt effortlessly thanks to its Real Time 4WD and smooth 5-speed automatic transmission with Grade Logic Control. Smarter than your average 4x4, CR-V’s 125kW, 2.4-litre DOHC i-VTEC engine will only apply power to the rear wheels when the front wheels require assistance, like on loose, uphill sections or sharp corners in the dirt.

When you combine the intelligence of the all wheel drive system with ABS brakes, traction and stability control, and a cabin with six airbags, it hardly seems fair.

Contenders in drive.com.au's Small 4WDs Mega-test

With at least seven serious contenders vying for this hotly contested compact SUV segment, the third generation CR-V still punches above its weight against all contenders. The notoriously thorough Fairfax motoring journalists took the entire segment out for a drive and found the stalwart CR-V tops in the group despite serious new competition from Korea, Germany and Japan.

“Not only does it drive well but it scores highly for interior design, engine and gearbox combination, noise refinement, comfort and practicality,” wrote Jez Spinks after the exhaustive test.

But the drive.com.au team weren’t game to take their cars off road, so here is where we fill in that gap. Oh, and to raise the bar a bit higher, we’re towing a trailer.

Heading out of the grandeur of the Flinders Ranges in spring, we made a beeline for the vast nothingness along the Oodnadatta Track where asphalt is unheard of. Sand, gumball-sized pebbles and the occasional water-filled ford were all par for the course along a route that took us as far as the opal outpost of Coober Pedy. So harsh and remote is this town, many choose to live underground to escape the baking summer heat. Astronauts come here to train and film crews shoot sci-fi features in the otherworldly terrain.

As we rolled into the car park of our subterranean hotel, the CR-V had taken the whole South Australian outback in its stride proving that, properly prepared and carefully driven, some of the world’s most notorious roads were within the grasp of this near bulletproof runabout.

Recommended Accessories:

• Modulo Front Skid Plate
• Modulo Rear Skid Plate
• Modulo Side Step Set with metal finish
• Fog lights and Garnish Set
• Luggage Area Protector Lining or tray
• Bonnet Protector
• Roof box
• Internal luggage guard
• Sump guard (aftermarket)

Highs and lows - across Australia

The Great Honda Adventure 2010 for Honda Magazine




IndyCar champion, Dario Franchitti, escapes the high powered world of elite motor sport for a fun dare – to ride, drive, walk and float between Australia’s highest and lowest points. Roderick Eime joins the adventure.

Honda: One Small Step for a Man

OUTthere Magazine : Issue 67

Soichiro Honda with the 1963 Honda RA270F prototype Formula one car

Roderick Eime reminisces on Honda’s history on the occasion of its fortieth anniversary in Australia.

Forty years ago, a humble man in a big suit stepped onto the surface of the moon and uttered those famous words. On a different scale perhaps, but when Hidehiko Shiomi set up shop in a Melbourne flat, his mission was also the first step in a momentous journey.

Driving to Save the World

OUTthere Magazine : Issue 66

The days of the gas-guzzler are over. Cheap petrol is a thing of the past, and if the rising cost of fuel wasn’t enough to sway us, then pleas from our suffering planet should change our minds.

We’re stuck with roads, cars, buses and trucks for the short term, so rather than look for a ‘tardis’ solution, it is clearly more practical to investigate alternative fuels for existing combustion engines and beyond that, new propulsion systems for the next wave of vehicles.

Roderick Eime examines and rates some current and near-future developments

Good: Biofuels

Fuel from vegetable sources has had a lot of publicity recently. Sir Richard Branson flew one of his Virgin jetliners using some coconut and palm-derived biofuel in a well-publicised test, but the jury is still out. Certainly, the source of biofuel is renewable, but critics point out that crops like corn and maize are better used to feed hungry humans than fly rich ones. Brazilians on the other hand, have greatly reduced their reliance on oil for petrol by using sugarcane waste for ethanol. Here in Australia, ethanol is already in our fuel tanks as is biodiesel for our trucks and heavy equipment. The net benefit of biofuel is still under debate, as their burning does produce greenhouse gasses. Supporters argue that the growing of the fuel source reabsorbs the carbon emitted during combustion, bolstering their “carbon neutral” claim.

Better: Petrol- Electric Hybrids



Some experts predict the current eco-vehicles are just an interim measure until even more efficient vehicles arrive. Chances are at least several of you are owners of hybrid vehicles like Toyota Prius, Honda Civic Hybrid or Lexus, while others will have driven one as a hire car. In hybrids, a conventional petrol engine is supplemented by banks of NiMH batteries (like those in mobile phones) driving a powerful electric motor. Under coasting or braking, the energy generated is fed back to recharge them, delivering impressively low gasoline mileage.

Outstanding! Hydrogen Fuel Cells

Think of hydrogen and it immediately conjures visions of the exploding Hindenberg airship. Sure, hydrogen is volatile, but it’s also extremely lightweight and efficient when used in a fuel cell. Hydrogen fuel cells work along the same lines as a regular torch or car battery, but instead of acids and fluids, the reactants are gases, the other one being oxygen from the air. Fill up like LPG and away you go and the only emissions are water vapour. It’s only a matter of time before full commercially viable vehicles join the limited experimental ones currently on the road. Japan, unsurprisingly, is leading the way with eleven hydrogen fuel stations already operating as part of their “Hydrogen Highway”.

See PDF

New Things in Smaller Packages

OUTthere 39 – All Torque



The motoring industry is witnessing the birth of a new genre of motor vehicle: the Premium Compact SUV.

The emergence of this new type of vehicle is not such a surprise and several prevailing factors are driving, excuse the pun, this development. Buyers are arriving at dealers with more money and higher expectations, but they are also sensitive to grandiose expressions of carbon-belching transport. Consequently, manufacturers are finding ways of packing high end accoutrements into smaller vehicles, in particular the SUV.

BMW are credited with leading this reverse charge with the 2004 introduction of their X3, offered as a kind of mini X5 for 3 Series buyers looking for a garage mate for their 325 or 330. But the exercise began awkwardly with critics identifying compromises like brash plastic interior trim and space-saver wheel coupled to a $65k (base) price tag. They were, however, unanimous in their praise for the X-drive 4WD system, which the little X3 shares with the full-size X5.

BMW revamped the X3, addressing some of the issues, with a new model in late 2006 offering three upgraded engine variants; a petrol 2.5 litre six, a sizzling 200kW 3.0 six and a very competent 3.0 turbo diesel. For the enviro-conscious, this economical and powerful (160kW) straight six is gaining lots of attention despite the $75k price tag.

In a much anticipated counter attack, iconic 4WD brand, Land Rover, recently launched their completely reworked Freelander, dubbed unsurprisingly, Freelander 2. The evocative TV campaign features a shiny 4WD transporting the young Gen Y male into a world of fantasy and adventure after an appointment with a stunning Asian clairvoyant. Despite this predictable marketing attempt, the new Freelander 2 reveals itself as an honestly impressive vehicle.

Land Rover endured years of biting criticism for their original Freelander which was victim to build quality issues and engine and transmission failures that had the warranty department working overtime. Their response was to start with a completely clean slate for Freelander 2, right down to the redesigned grille badge.

OUTthere was able to test this compact SUV much harder than any of its competitors under the scutinising eye of Land Rover executives. We can report it is a genuine off-road 4WD with much more capacity than 95 per cent of owners will ever ask of it. Our only reservation was the occasional underbody scuff due to a ride height not ideal for the heavy off-road work we subjected our test vehicles to.

Benchmarked against the leading vehicle in this class, the X3, Land Rover pitched the UK-built baby 4WD into the category at just under $50k. Even the high spec HSE 2.2 litre diesel tops out at $58k. Despite dismissive scoffs from the German marque, if the new little Land Rover can live up to claims of improved reliability and build quality, it is a genuine competitor in this new category of vehicle.

So who else is training their sights on this new arena?

Volvo signaled its intentions to compete with the XC60, a scale model of the well-received XC90 full-size 4WD. Currently in concept, the XC60 is slated for production in 2009, putting the Ford-owned Swedish marque off the radar for now.

Audi, again acknowledging what appears initially to be a European trend, have heralded the Q5 as a miniaturised version of their acclaimed Q7. Due to begin production in Germany next year, the Q5 will meet the X3 head-on, but Audi are also planning the Q3 to slot in one layer down.

Mercedes-Benz, predicably enough, are not about to be left out. Journalists were taunted recently in Austria with a cloaked prototype that stayed cloaked and instead were treated to display of strictly embargoed concept images. To be marketed under the label MLK, Mercedes-Benz promise to remove the covers at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. MLK is likely to be powered by the 3.0 and 3.5 litre V6s and spy shots indicate it will appear in a 4-door version.

Honda, who can claim some credit for launching the compact SUV category ten years ago with CR-V, upped the spec for their new model to knock on the door of the premium segment at almost $42k for the fully tricked model. CR-V, however, falls considerably short in the off-road stakes when compared to X3 or Freelander 2. But for those who live on the tarmac, it’s worth a test.

Jeep upset purists of this stalwart 4x4 marque with their release of Compass. It has many critics scratching their heads with this new, pint-sized Jeep. Looking for all the world like the baby brother of the big boy family, Compass brings everyday driveability and comfort to a brand known for rugged, outdoorsy looks - and commensurate ride and feel. Sure, it’s a softy, but it may be a Jeep that Mrs He-Man won’t mind jumping into. Fully sauced, the little Jeep just tips the $40k price point and boasts leather seats, CD-stacker, electronic stability control, airbags and intelligent 4WD.

CR-V: Compact, Reliable, Versatile

From MotorWeb - Mo...

Report: Roderick Eime.
Photos: Honda Motor Company

CR-V is back with its sights set on regaining top-selling status in Compact SUVs.

Test Car:

* Honda CR-V Luxury
* 5-speed automatic with Grade Logic Control
* 2.4 litre 4 cylinder DOHC i-VTEC with VTC (125kW)
* RRP $41,990 as tested

Honda’s experience with All Wheel Drive and 4WD SUV vehicles in Australia has been mixed to say the least.

Buoyed by the overwhelming initial success of the CR-V in 1997, Honda introduced the smaller HR-V in 1999 and then the larger MDX in 2003. Both have since disappeared from the scene, leaving CR-V the only Honda soft-roader on the market.

Whether you take the “Compact Recreational Vehicle” or “Comfortable Runabout Vehicle” definition, it seems CR-V was the right sized package for Honda buyers all along. The little HR-V was only slightly cheaper, and the MD-X about double, with neither really catching buyers’ imagination. Now in its third generation, Honda is pinning its hopes on CR-V regaining top spot in the compact SUV segment currently owned by Toyota’s now grown-up RAV4. If the critics are right, it may just happen, with the new CR-V selling almost 1000 units in its first month, a very encouraging start.

Back in ’97, with little real competition, the CR-V quickly defined the compact SUV segment despite very limited credentials as a 4WD. Perhaps it was the intelligent interior layout, ease of driving and Honda build quality that set it apart and has since made it the one to catch. And catch it they did.

But let’s be up-front: the CRV is not really an off-road vehicle. It’s a smooth, pleasant and polite handling SUV that will behave well in difficult conditions like wet, slippery roads and unsealed surfaces, but is not so happy in bumpy, rough terrain. Honda, by its own admission, has retained the “Real-Time” 4WD system, but tuned suspension and handling for a more sedan-like quality.

Honda’s “Real Time” 4WD system is a “reactionary” one, similar to many, so-called soft-roaders. Front wheel drive almost all the time, it will activate the rear wheel drive on demand only, like slippery road conditions and dirt.

Honda has instead succeeded in making the new 2.4 litre CR-V a more capable road car, which is where the vast majority of CR-Vs will spend their lives. A 20mm lower ride height and repositioned spare wheel has effectively lowered the centre of gravity almost 35mm. This seems just a small amount, but will be noticeable to anyone who has driven earlier models. Factor in the new Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), advanced ABS and multiple airbags and you have the safest CR-V ever.

Styling wise, CR-V is still in the game, with its distinctive double layer grille and a hidden spare wheel, now relocated under the rear floor. This also allows for a vertically opening tailgate, instead of the barn-door of the old model. The makeover includes an arched window treatment that looks good from outside, but does reduce rear passenger outlook slightly. The overall impression though is one of new sophistication and chic that alone may induce some owners to trade up.

Survey the CR-Vs you see on the street and you’ll notice the popularity of the car with women drivers, especially those with young families. OUTthere tested our CR-V Luxury with the females and the verdict was encouraging. Typically they liked the delightful road manners, good visibility, easy parking, comfort, appointments and smart styling.

Going back to my earliest recollections of Japanese cars in the early ‘70s (I learned to drive in a 1973 Civic) I recall the all-but-flawless build quality that became the hallmark of the fully imported product. 35 years later, the world is a different place and Hondas are built all over the world. Most recently, we’re getting Civics, Accords and now the CR-Vs from Thailand and they, like the rest of the world, can’t match the Japanese for absolute build quality. Our test car’s tailgate wasn’t fitted perfectly and took a bit of effort to shut. A quick test on several other identical cars showed they all worked just fine. But we’d never get this quality car in Australia for under $40k, so this is the trade-off.

In summary, the new generation CR-V is a logical and intelligent revitalization to one of Honda’s most popular cars ever. Enjoyable and as easy to drive as ever, CR-V is back!

We Liked:

* Excellent road manners and handling
* Superior interior appointments for class
* High safety levels
* Good visibilty

If we had to be picky

* Test car had poor fitting rear tailgate
* Modest performance
* Noticeable road noise
* No manual override on auto trans

Honda CR-V - The All-New CR-V

Industry News:

Honda CR-V - The All-New CR-V

Snowman

Ian Talbot has been in the snow business for so long, even Santa Claus sends him a Christmas card!

Since pioneering ski tourism and launching Powderhound Magazine in the mid-1970s, Ian now runs a successful media consultancy and public relations business, Skipress, servicing the ski, snow and summer resort businesses in Victoria’s High Country. With regular trips by road and between the major resorts such as Falls Creek Alpine Resort and Mount Beauty, Ian cannot afford to be waylaid by inclement weather or unreliable transport and is delighted with his choice of vehicle; his second Honda CRV.

Both regular and occasional visitors to Falls Creek turn their head when Ian’s distinctively liveried Honda passes by. Looking something like a cross between a mobile blizzard and a giant polar mint, the CRV is decorated with an unmistakeable ski and snow theme.

“I wanted something that really said what I was all about,“ says Ian, the edges of his mouth curling slightly to suppress a huge grin,” the design took two full days to apply and is made up of a series of very big stickers.

“I took it back to Col Crawford’s (Honda dealer in Brookvale, Sydney) for the next service and they couldn’t believe it. It gets huge reaction everywhere I go!”

And Ian sure gets about!

Although most of the mileage is clocked up around town, Ian is quite comfortable extending the CRV’s normal operating environment – especially after his mighty winter adventure.

“It was in the middle of winter and I had to get from Falls Creek to Mt Hotham,” begins Ian, hinting that this isn’t something he would normally attempt in such conditions, “It was snowing hard, so I rang my friends at the local police station for a road report. Surprisingly, the normal route through Harrietville was closed, but I was told the backroad via Trappers Gap was still open – or at least wasn’t closed.”

Normally the twisty 100km trip would take about two hours, but the heavy snowfalls had left 30cm of snow over most of the road and in some places, Ian found drifts right up over the bonnet.

“I was ready to put the chains on at any time, but I really didn’t want to get out of the car, so I pressed on. It was getting very dark and cold and the fuel situation was critical,” continues Ian, reliving the anxiety with some conviction, “but the Honda just kept going, and so did I. What began as a routine drive, turned out to be quite an adventure!”

Even though he was more than happy with the CRV’s off-road ability and All-Wheel-Drive stability, Ian found this demonstration very convincing.

“I really like the look of the new CRV,” he says wistfully, “knowing full well another snowflake paint job is just around the corner!

Honda Indy Car Racing "Everyone Loves A Winner!"

Everyone Loves a Winner 

commissioned for HONDA - The Magazine 

Winning in the CART (Championship Auto Racing Teams) World Series is no mean feat. As North America's premier motorsport category, and one of the world's most respected super high-performance formulae, winning becomes a science, a philosophy and an all-consuming desire.

Honda Indy Car Racing "Everyone Loves A Winner!"