History of Honda: Pride in Owning a Honda

When we talk about motorcycling, one country stands out for its competence, quality, technology, and reliability: Japan. Despite being a small nation with only 1.67% of the world’s population, Japan holds about 50% of all global motorcycle sales.

This country is home to the four largest motorcycle manufacturers in the world: Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Yamaha. However, among this group, Honda stands out as the undisputed giant.

The Founder

To understand Honda’s greatness, it is essential to know the story of its founder, Soichiro Honda. He had a vision reflected in his words: “99% is failure.” Born on November 17, 1906, Soichiro grew up in a family of blacksmiths, where his father, Kiyoshi, repaired bicycles.

From a young age, Soichiro showed little interest in the conventional educational system, displaying a curiosity and creativity that made him stand out.

At 15, Soichiro left his hometown and moved to Tokyo in search of work. He found a job as an apprentice in an automobile garage, and by the age of 17, he developed a race car that set speed records.

However, his racing career was cut short by a serious accident that left him with injuries to his left eye.

Challenges and Innovations

After the accident, Soichiro founded his own company, Tokai Seiki, focusing on piston ring production. Unfortunately, the quality of the rings did not meet Toyota’s standards, resulting in the loss of the contract.

However, Soichiro was undeterred. He realized he needed to learn more about engineering and began visiting several steel factories across Japan.

In 1941, Tokai Seiki faced difficulties due to World War II. The war made it challenging to access essential materials like cement, which were needed to build factories.

To overcome this, Soichiro developed his own cement. However, in 1944, the factory was destroyed, but he didn’t give up.

In 1945, after an earthquake destroyed his second factory, Soichiro sold the remains of Tokai Seiki to Toyota and used the money to found the Honda Technical Research Institute.

The Revolution of Motorized Bicycles

In post-war Japan, Soichiro realized the population needed affordable transportation. With just 12 employees working in a 16-square-meter space, he created a motorized bicycle using available wartime engines. This model, known as “Pata Bata,” quickly gained popularity.

In 1949, with an investment of about 1 billion yen, Soichiro founded Honda Motor Co. The first motorcycle with a chassis and engine made by Honda was the Honda Dream, symbolizing Soichiro’s vision of creating quality vehicles.

Perception Challenges and Growth

Despite early success, Honda faced two significant challenges: the perception that Japanese products were of poor quality and the outdated design of its motorcycles.

To change this image, Soichiro decided that Honda needed to win international competitions, such as MotoGP and the famous Isle of Man TT race.

These victories would prove that their motorcycles were competitive on a global level.

In the 1950s, Honda began to shine in MotoGP, winning in various categories.

Soichiro was instrumental in the evolution of the four-stroke engine, doubling the power and establishing Honda as one of the leading motorcycle manufacturers in the world.

Expansion into the Automotive Sector

With success in motorcycles, Honda began exploring the automotive market. By 1958, the company had already become Japan’s largest motorcycle producer.

The Honda Cub model, launched in 1952, became the best-selling motorcycle in the world, with over 100 million units produced.

Honda also made its mark in the automotive industry, developing the Honda T360, a vehicle that, while not hugely successful, was an important step in diversifying the company.

Honda became a reference in innovation and quality, overcoming challenges such as the U.S. emissions regulations by developing an engine that met these new requirements without needing a catalytic converter.

Impact and Legacy

Today, Honda is one of the largest motorcycle and automobile manufacturers in the world, with factories in over 20 countries and more than 200,000 employees.

The company has diversified its portfolio, producing not only motorcycles and cars but also boat engines, gardening equipment, generators, and even airplanes.

Soichiro Honda left an impressive legacy, and his determination to prove the quality of Japanese products made Honda a globally respected brand.

Ayrton Senna, one of the greatest Formula 1 drivers, credited Honda as a crucial factor in his victories, highlighting the brand’s importance in the world of motorsports.

If you own a Honda, you can take pride in being part of a rich and inspiring history. Soichiro Honda’s journey is an example of perseverance and innovation.

He started during a time of war and destruction but managed to turn his vision into reality, creating one of the most iconic brands in the world.