Honda unveils debut electric bike

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【Summary】Honda has unveiled its first electric bicycle, the Honda e-MTB Concept, at the Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo. Unlike other e-bike concepts, Honda's design is realistic and could potentially reach production. The e-bike utilizes existing components from companies like Brose and features a full-suspension design suitable for mountainous terrain. Honda aims to combine the experiences of motorcycles and bicycles in a single product.

FutureCar Staff Nov 05, 2023 5:14 AM PT

Honda is joining other major automotive manufacturers in the electric bicycle market by introducing its first electric bicycle, the Honda e-MTB Concept. The bike was recently unveiled at the Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo, where it was showcased alongside other futuristic debuts from leading Japanese motorcycle companies and automakers.

The Honda e-MTB Concept resembles a downhill electric bike and features a realistic design. Unlike some e-bike concepts that may seem far-fetched, Honda's concept appears to have the potential for production. This signifies a promising trend in e-bike concepts, suggesting that these designs could eventually make their way into the market.

The e-bike utilizes an existing Brose mid-drive motor, allowing Honda to focus more on the bike's overall appearance and structural design. By leveraging established e-bike components, Honda can rely on companies that have been producing them for decades.

This full-suspension e-bike incorporates various components, including a SRAM Eagle AXS drivetrain, Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, Fox suspension, a RockShox Reverb dropper seat post, DT Swiss XM 1700 wheels, and Maxxis Minion DHF tires.

Honda's goal with the e-MTB Concept is to combine the experiences of motorcycles and bicycles into a single product that can handle mountainous terrain. The company envisions the bike as a means to expand mobility in nature and provide a new riding experience that combines the thrill of motorcycles with the enjoyment of mountain biking.

Honda is not the first automaker or motorcycle manufacturer to explore electric bicycles as a way to expand their brand. Other notable examples include Harley-Davidson's e-bike venture with Serial 1, Porsche's expansion into e-bikes through acquisitions and their own brand, Peugeot's extensive line of electric bikes, and GM's in-house development of an electric bike, which unfortunately did not reach commercialization. Even brands like HUMMER and Jeep have recently attempted to enter the e-bike market, recognizing its potential for growth and market expansion.

As the e-bike market continues to thrive, more automakers are recognizing it as a lucrative opportunity to broaden their market reach and attract new customers to their transportation ecosystem.