ROAD NEWS

E-Compressor Prototype, which features a V3 engine with electronically controlled compressor, that the Japanese manufacturer teased us with last year. Put on show at the EICMA show in Italy, the V3R 900 E-Compressor Prototype is being developed according to Honda’ s“ Non-Rail Roller Coaster” concept of“ promised thrills” and“ absolute peace of mind.” The engine layout retains the water-cooled 75-degree V3 unit unveiled at last year’ s EICMA show, but this year has a confirmed displacement of 900cc in a naked street-fighter style chassis. Honda says it is a world-first for a motorcycle, adopting an electronically controlled compressor, allowing precise control of engine boost, delivering high-response torque from low revs. This is said to deliver performance on par with a 1200cc engine despite its 900cc displacement, while also meeting the required environmental efficiencies. With asymmetrical design visuals, it’ s certainly the most striking bike to come out of Honda in some years. We can’ t wait to see what the final road-going machine will look like.

92 KIWI RIDER