Today in motorcycle history, November 20, 2001

 

  Honda's road to world domination continues as they announce it has begun production of a new 125cc motorcycle with it's new joint venture company in China, Sundiro Honda Motorcycle Co., Ltd.

 

  A commemorative ceremony to mark the foundation of the company was held as a lineoff ceremony for the jointly developed M-LIVING motorcycle ('WanLiXing' in Chinese).

  M-LIVING is designed to incorporate the major attributes of the GL125 and CG125, both well-known "business motorcycles" in the Chinese market, as well as the renowned characteristics of the Honda brand - engine durability, superb fuel economy and emissions technology that meet forthcoming regulations.  Emissions being such a big issue to the Chinese government (damn it, where's that sarcasm key).

  The new motorcycle, to be sold at an affordable price of 5,500 yuan (in 2001 that was an unheard of $656.00), will be an ideal means of transportation especially in regional cities and agricultural districts where motorcycle sales have increased drastically in recent years.

   Honda President and CEO Hiroyuki Yoshino attended the foundation ceremony and said: "This new company has begun with big dream$ in the world's largest motorcycle market, where the economy is growing at a tremendous rate. I am excited by the energy displayed by this new company. It reminds me of the spirit we at Honda experienced in our early days. I am convinced that blah, blah, blah...will provide customer satisfaction in China."