Three-wheel vehicle prototypes are the new trend for the major vehicle manufacturers though Yamaha NIKEN is the only trike available for sale in the market. Coming to the latest news on the same, Honda has been granted a patent for its three-wheel motorcycle, NeoWing. The trike was first showcased as a concept in 2015 at the Tokyo Motor Show while the brand filed for the patent in 2016.
Honda received the green signal from the European Patent Office last month. According to the recent happenings, the trike would be available in the market sooner than expected, though the unveiling date has not been officially announced as of yet.
Honda NeoWing is expected to be based on the same engine specifications as that of the Gold Wing. The single wheel at the back is connected to the engine while the dual front wheels are connected to the steering. The bike can lean into corners just like other bikes but would offer more stability and control.
According to the patent, the Honda NeoWing might feature a 6-cylinder engine borrowed from the Gold Wing though, the company does suggest a 2-cylinder engine also. Judging from this, the brand might introduce the three-wheeler with two engine specifications, giving the Yamaha NIKEN a tough competition by launching an entry-level model of NeoWing powered by a 2-cylinder engine. Powering the Yamaha NIKEN is an 847cc, three-cylinder engine that churns out a maximum power of 115 HP at 10,000 rpm and a peak torque of 87.5 Nm at 8,500 rpm.
On the other hand, it is also being rumoured that Honda might also equip the NeoWing with a hybrid motor unit where the 4-cylinder engine and the electric motor will offer massive torque output. When launched in the International market, the Honda NeoWing would be represented as a premium offering in the brand’s lineup.