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Honda’s forced-induction V-three made the most commotion at EICMA 2024. So much so that I (and many Common Tread readers, I might add) eagerly anticipated seeing the motorcycle powered by that exciting new engine.
Big Red partly delivers on those expectations by unveiling the V3R 900 E-Compressor at EICMA 2025.
If you’re anticipating a full spec rundown, Honda can’t oblige. There are no horsepower claims or fuel consumption estimates. No curb weight or seat height to report. At least, not at this point in the project’s timeline, anyway.
Instead, the Japanese OEM hints at the V3R’s performance potential with a carefully worded press release and high-polish photography. In some ways, those limited details only inflate the hype surrounding the blown V3. Let’s dig in.
What’s in a name?
Leading into EICMA 2025, the public already knew a thing or two about Honda’s new engine. Its 75-degree layout and water cooling were no secret. The benefits of its electric compressor, which forces more air into the combustion chamber, were widely known. What remained a mystery was the V3’s capacity. The prototype’s name — V3R 900 E-Compressor (heavy emphasis on the 900) — provides a pretty direct answer. That doesn’t mean the V3R will perform like a 900 cc motorcycle, though.
Clean fun
Forced induction is popular in automobiles for two reasons: higher power-to-displacement ratios with less detrimental effects on fuel economy. That’s also Honda’s aim with the V3’s e-compressor. According to the company, it’s “striving to develop a 900 cc engine that achieves the performance comparable to that of a 1200 cc engine, while also contributing to excellent environmental performance.” It’s worth noting that Honda stated that comparison as its goal. Meaning that the project still has a way to go yet.
You’ve got the look
Honda debuted the V3 engine last year in a chassis, but it lacked all bodywork and rider accommodations. That changes with the V3R 900. While the prototype isn’t your run-of-the-mill naked bike, it sure looks like one. From its broad-shouldered gas tank to its UFO-worthy headlight to its waspy tail section, the 900 E-Compressor could easily hail from Yamaha’s MT line. As well-worn as that style is, what’s encouraging is that the prototype retains its single-sided swingarm, which distinguishes it from the naked bike horde.
A new hope
We hear it all the time: motorcycles are better than they’ve ever been. And yet, somehow, excitement is hard to come by these days. Honda’s V3R 900 E-Compressor prototype challenges that narrative. Not just because of its potential. It’s not just the prospect of a new model. It’s a new technology. A new methodology. A new experience. One that Big Red admitted it will continue developing for “mass production.”
The V3R may not be available yet, but if I learned anything from Honda’s prototype, it’s that it's on its way.
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