Japanese motorcycle manufacturer Honda has filed a groundbreaking patent application in global markets, introducing a radical departure from conventional mirror setups. The key innovation lies in strategically positioning mirrors underneath the handlebars, attached to the fork just below the top triple clamp.
This inventive design addresses several challenges faced by traditional setups:
- Enhanced Visibility: By positioning the mirrors slightly forward under the handlebars, Honda ensures they remain in the rider’s line of sight over the handlebars. This strategic placement eliminates obstructed views commonly encountered with standard mirrors.
- Obstruction Elimination: The mirrors’ location below the handlebars and slightly forward eliminates the problem of obstructed views caused by the rider’s arms and elbows, offering an unimpeded view of the road behind.
- Stylish Integration:Â Aside from practical advantages, this design could contribute to a sleeker and more visually appealing motorcycle aesthetic, enhancing the overall design.
Patent Application
This innovative mirror placement design has already been implemented in the Japan-exclusive Hawk 11 Cafe Racer. However, the mirrors on the Hawk 11 are positioned on the fairing, implying that Honda’s new patent offers additional benefits not fully utilized in this specific model.
Innovative Design
Importantly, Honda plans to incorporate this cutting-edge design into upcoming motorcycle models. Notably, the successor to the CB1000R, a highly anticipated model, is expected to showcase this design. This successor, based on the CBR1000RR chassis and engine, could potentially introduce the innovative underslung mirror concept, further solidifying its high-performance profile.
CBR1000RR Chassis
In a landscape where mirror technology is evolving with the introduction of rearview cameras, Honda’s inventive approach underscores the enduring significance of traditional mirrors due to their adaptability and cost-effectiveness. This strategic pivot could potentially reshape mirror placement standards across the motorcycle industry.
Conclusion
Honda’s inventive mirror placement design marks a significant departure from conventional setups, showcasing a strategic approach to address challenges in visibility and obstructed views. By positioning mirrors under the handlebars and slightly forward, Honda enhances rider visibility and eliminates common obstructions associated with traditional mirrors.
This forward-looking design, already implemented in the Hawk 11 Cafe Racer, is poised to make its mark on upcoming motorcycle models, potentially revolutionizing mirror placement standards in the industry. As the successor to the CB1000R looms with its high-performance profile, the motorcycle world eagerly anticipates the practical and aesthetic advancements that this innovative mirror concept could bring.
