Toshiya Uchida, Researcher Motorcycle R&D Center, Honda R&D Co., Ltd.
Joined Honda R&D in 2000. Took part in development of the Forza series and other scooters as head of power performance before becoming the head of power performance for motorcycles. "I had lots of fun developing the New Mid Series. I want to encourage people who think motorcycles are expensive or fun but tiring to ride to take a New Mid motorcycle for a spin. Please come back to motorcycles!"
Joined Honda R&D in 1978. "The New Mid Series is one development project I'll never forget. Customers don't get excited about a new product unless you make it 'number one' at something. We achieved that on price and fuel economy, and as the LPL, that makes me proud."
Joined Honda R&D in 2001. Designed engines for ATVs and large motorcycles before working on the New Mid project; is currently designing engines for Cub series motorcycles. "Hokkaido was the beginning of everything. All of our thoughts came together on that trip. I hope New Mid motorcycles become something like a larger version of Honda Cub motorcycles."
Takanori Osuka, Researcher Motorcycle R&D Center, Honda R&D Co., Ltd.
Joined Honda R&D in 1993 and has been part of the engine research division for large motorcycle development ever since. "Trying various things to get the engine to run at the optimal air-to-fuel ratio from idle and meet our fuel economy target was the jumping off point for this model. I hope the New Mid Series becomes the standard."
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