Motorcycles
3R Assessment System
Since 1992, Honda has been evaluating every new model with its 3R preliminary assessment system in order to improve 3R-related performance.Design for Reduction
• Reduction in size and weight
Concerning technology to reduce size and weight, we promote the use of aluminum die cast motorcycle frames that can be welded. To make frames thinner and more precise, we advanced the technology used in manufacturing easily recyclable hollow aluminum die-cast frames that can be welded. These frames were used in the CBR600RR, which was released in fiscal 2005, to further reduce its weight.
CBR600RR
Aluminum twin-tube frame
• Extension of service life
By the end of fiscal 2005, we expanded the use of Honda’s original puncture-proof technology called “tuffup tube” to approximately 5.4 million completed motorcycles. We have thus steadily promoted the use of these unique tubes and reduced the disposal requirement for punctured tires.Design for Reusability and Recyclability
• Improved recyclability
For models newly introduced or changed in fiscal 2005, 95 percent or more of their materials are recyclable. Also, to further improve recyclability, we implemented a system using the latest IT technology to collect and compute recycling-related data. Using this system, we will promote product designs that attain 95 percent recyclability. To help facilitate increased recycling, we also mark the name of the material as much as possible, including even very small resin parts.• Use of recycled resin
We are also expanding the adoption of recycled resin to fenders and under-covers. For scooters, recycled resin materials are used in approximately 15 percent of resin parts.Reduction in Substances of Concern
• Reduction in the use of four heavy metals
One of Honda’s commitments is to reduce the use of four heavy metals believed to have adverse effects on the environment (lead, mercury, hexavalent chromium, and cadmium) in all models produced in Japan by the end of 2005. Among the four substances, we achieved our voluntary reduction targets for lead, mercury, and cadmium.* We are currently implementing measures to discontinue hexavalent chromium use in 2006. * We achieved the voluntary reduction target for lead set by JAMA in January 2005; for mercury prior to 2001; and for hexavalent chromium in March 2006, all earlier than planned.
• Reduction in Other Substances of Concern
Honda has been replacing various substances of concern based on its internal guidelines on chemical substances. Since December 2002, we have replaced approximately 80 percent of those parts containing a small amount of hexavalent chromium with parts free of hexavalent chromium.
