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We all know Honda for its cars and for pioneering new automotive technologies like variable valve timing (VTEC), four-wheel steering, and hybrid powertrains.
But Honda didn’t start out in the car business. It began building motorised bicycles, then motorcycles. The first Honda cars, in fact, arrived almost 20 years after the company was formed, starting with the T360 mini truck and soon after with the iconic S500 sports convertible.
Today, Honda is one of the most diverse automotive brands on the planet – as well as the world’s biggest motorcycle maker and engine manufacturer – with products on land, sea and in the air.
So, let’s take a look at what else Honda does other than cars.
Honda Motorcycles
Honda’s origin story started on two wheels, and now it’s the largest manufacturer of motorcycles in the world – a position it has held since 1959.
The first Honda motorcycles were imported to Australia in the early 1950s, before the company officially established Honda Australia in 1969.
Today, it offers a wide range of motorcycles from off-road trail and motocross machines, to adventure and agricultural bikes, scooters, high-performance superbikes for the racetrack, street and touring bikes including the iconic Gold Wing, and four-wheeled side-by-sides for hard work and fun.
As it has done on the automotive landscape, Honda is pushing the boundaries and introducing new technologies to motorcycles, and was the first to introduce a dual-clutch automatic transmission with the Honda E-Clutch on its Africa Twin adventure bike.
That same convenient solution, which makes riding easier, more enjoyable and safer – especially for less experienced riders – is also now available for the latest CBR 650R middle-weight sports bike, which is offered as a naked Neo Sports Café tourer or with racing-inspired bodywork.
The E-Clutch system offers the best of both worlds: riders can choose to use the conventional clutch lever if they desire or activate the E-Clutch and change gears using just the foot-operated lever, allowing them to enjoy the pleasure of a ride and simply concentrate on the road ahead with smooth and precise gear changes.
When activated, riders can alter the speed of E-Clutch gear changes across three settings.
The Japanese brand’s commitment to motorcycles goes beyond the machines through its Honda Australia Rider Training (HART) centres in Victoria in New South Wales, which offer expert tuition and courses for learners through to advanced riders. This year, HART celebrates its 25 anniversary.
Honda Power Equipment
A Honda CR-V, Civic or any of its other cars might not be the only Honda product in your garage.
The Japanese brand has an extensive catalogue of hard-working power equipment, including gardening tools like lawnmowers, trimmers, leaf blowers and chainsaws, as well as portable generators, pumps, engines and battery packs.
Among its most popular power equipment is the latest range of battery-powered lawnmowers, available with either a 36V or 58V electrical system.
The granddaddy of the range is the flagship 58V HRC216-BE, which costs $2499 and has a 2.0kW brushless electric motor, two battery bays that can accommodate either 8Ah or 12Ah battery packs (which each provide up to 30 minutes or 45 minutes of continuous run time respectively), and a 74-litre grass catcher. It even has headlights for low-light conditions and electric cruise control.
Honda has been recognised by Choice as Australia’s best lawnmower brand.
Honda Marine
If you want a V8-powered Honda, then you’ll need a boat.
Honda’s Marine division has established a strong reputation in Australia for reliable, fuel-efficient outboard motors and marine accessories that suit the country’s vast coastline, recreational boating culture and commercial needs.
Known primarily for four-stroke outboards, Honda emphasises smooth, quiet operation, low emissions and easy starting – features valued by weekend anglers, family cruisers and professional operators alike.
The BF350 outboard motor is the flagship of its high-horsepower range, featuring a 350hp (257kW) 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 with VTEC technology for improved fuel-efficiency, while its slim design and revised gear case are designed to reduce drag.
Honda has also developed a unique system called BLAST, which alters the air/fuel ratio and ignition timing to provide more instant torque at low engine speeds, improving acceleration and getting the hull on the plane quicker.
The same technology drips down through the rest of the lineup with V6-powered mid-range versions delivering 250hp, 225hp and 200hp, and four-cylinder outboards with power outputs ranging from 115hp to 175hp.
Honda also has a catalogue of mid-range outboards from 30hp up to 100hp, and smaller portable outboards for dinghies, tenders and small fishing boats, from 2.3hp to 20hp.
Honda Jet
But if you want the ultimate Honda then you’re going to have to fly.
Since its commercial debut in 2015, the HondaJet (codenamed HA-420) has redefined the light business aviation sector thanks to its blend of innovative engineering, refined comfort and efficient performance.
Developed by Honda Aircraft Company in the USA and updated in 2018 with the Elite, the aircraft’s signature over‑the‑wing engine mounts reduce cabin noise and drag, contributing to superior cruise speeds and fuel efficiency compared with rivals.
Its composite fuselage and natural laminar flow wing deliver extended range and improved aerodynamics, while a modern Garmin avionics suite and advanced flight controls appeal to owner‑operators and charter companies prioritising reliability and low operating costs.
The cabin offers surprising space and thoughtful amenities for a light jet, including stand‑up headroom, comfortable seating for typical six‑to‑seven passenger loads, and flexible baggage capacity, making it well suited for regional corporate missions and high‑net‑worth private use.
Honda’s reputation for automotive quality control and attention to detail is evident in its fit, finish and customer support programs, helping bolster resale value.
In 2021, Honda Jet released information on a second variant (codenamed HA-480) with a larger 11-person cabin and the longest flying range of any single-pilot business aircraft of 2635 nautical miles.
The first flight is scheduled for later this year, with certification planned for 2028 or 2029.
So Honda is more than just a car company. The Japanese brand is a powerhouse and a pioneer on the land, sea and in the air.