Introduction:

In 1959, Honda officially entered the American market with six employees in a small storefront on Pico Boulevard in Los Angeles.  On June 11, 1959, American Honda became incorporated.  The significance of Honda taking on the tough and entrenched American motorcycle market so early in its corporate life cannot be overstated.  Not only did Honda revolutionize how Americans thought and felt about motorcycles, but it pushed sales to levels never contemplated by Harley-Davidson and the British manufacturers.

Today, American Honda turns 50, and in celebration of this historic event we have asked some well-qualified motorcycle journalists, historians, and enthusiasts to participate in a Motohistory Tribute.  We do this mindful of the fact that Honda has arguably had as much impact on other motorized product lines as it has had on motorcycles.  But let the automobile, power equipment, and marine industries tell their own stories.  Motohistory is about motorcycles, and we believe that 50 years ago the motorcycle was—and still is—the very soul of the Honda brand. 

So join us while our guest Motohistorians listed below share their views about Honda, the brand, the corporation, and the phenomenon.  

In addition to these new contributions, we think you may enjoy "Honda's First Four Years" by Dave Ekins, posted as a special feature on Motohistory May 22, 2007.  To read it, click here.

Posted 6/11/2009