With a new, 650cc supermotard-style street single available from Honda in Europe this year, and news that Honda is providing naked bikes (such as its Hornet 600) to customizers in Europe, as well, it is clear that Honda distinguishes significant differences between the European and American markets for motorcycles.
The 650cc supermoto bike is not available in the U.S. this year, and Honda tends to provide cruisers to customizers here in the U.S. (not naked bikes). Honda is not alone, of course, as most manufacturers have special models available only in Europe (or only in the United States, and not in Europe). There is always an outcry by U.S. consumers for at least some of the Europe-only models, however, and there is a vocal group looking for a supermoto for sale here in the U.S. from one of the major Japanese manufacturers.
Suzuki answered that call this year with its DR-Z400 based supermoto machine (which is street legal). Perhaps, Honda will follow with its big-bore supermoto next year. This is clearly a market everyone is watching closely here in the United States.
