X-ADV was developed as a new 750 cc class motorcycle model targeting European customers. In this model, we aimed to further expand the joy of movement for customers in the mature market in Europe. The concept and styling design were begun to be investigated voluntarily before the development started. First, we conducted a survey targeting customers in Europe and derived the product concept “Go Everywhere with Excitement.” The intention is that it is a commuter motorcycle with ‘Adventurer spirit’ that allows smart movements in the city on weekdays and invites them to adventure on holidays. The direction of the styling design was set to represent the attributes of the four-wheel sport utility vehicles, expressing toughness and protections for the rider. A concept model was created for verification of this direction. In that model, taking into consideration the riders’ physiques and postures, the attributes of protection that makes it looked like the motorcycle is protecting the rider was expressed. Furthermore, in order to verify whether the set directionality is acceptable to customers, the concept model was exhibited at European motor shows and hearings were conducted. As a consequence, we could get customers’ understanding, and we gained highly favorable evaluation results as well. Furthermore, based on this result, the commercial production of this model was decided and styling designs for mass-produced cars were implemented. The developed model of the X-ADV captures the customers’ mind with the unprecedented concept and styling and is favorably accepted in the market.
Article of Honda R&D Technical Review Vol.30 No.1 (16 - 31)