Motorcycles have always been designed with the motorcyclist in mind, but Honda set out to create a machine that would appeal to non-motorcyclists, embodying practicality and modern design. The result was the Honda Pacific Coast 800, a unique blend of motorcycle and car features.
Introduced in 1989, the PC800 was aimed primarily at the US market, with its soft suspension and rounded styling reminiscent of cars of the era. The design was unconventional, featuring a trunk that provided a large storage space, making it highly practical for everyday use.
The bike’s large fairing was effective at keeping riders dry in wet conditions, and it even came equipped with a stereo, a luxury rarely seen in motorcycles at the time. The PC800 was designed for minimal maintenance, featuring shaft drive and easily removable panels for accessibility.
Powered by a 800cc 45-degree V-twin engine, the PC800 delivered modest horsepower but excelled in torque. However, despite its innovative design and practical features, the PC800 failed to attract the non-motorcyclist demographic it was intended for. The bike’s heavy weight and unconventional appearance did not resonate with potential buyers, leading to limited sales.
Despite the PC800’s commercial disappointment, Honda continued to explore similar concepts, such as the DN-01, in an effort to bridge the gap between motorcycles and car enthusiasts. The hope persists that a future innovation from Honda or other manufacturers will successfully reintroduce motorcycles as a viable mode of transportation for the masses.
Ultimately, the PC800 remains a significant attempt to revolutionize the motorcycle industry, encouraging a shift in urban transportation habits. While it may not have achieved widespread success, it serves as a testament to Honda’s commitment to innovation and the continuous pursuit of a harmonious coexistence between motorcycles and cars.
What is the Honda Pacific Coast 800?
The Honda Pacific Coast 800, also known as the PC800, was a motorcycle designed by Honda in 1989 using the combined powers of their car and motorcycle divisions. It was a bike designed to appeal to non-motorcyclists by offering a more practical and car-like experience.
What were some of the unique features of the Honda PC800?
The Honda PC800 had a trunk for storage, soft squishy suspension similar to cars of the day, rounded car-like styling, a stereo system, and a large fairing that effectively kept riders dry in wet conditions. It also featured a shaft drive and most of its bodywork was made of plastic.
Was the Honda PC800 successful in the market?
The Honda PC800 was not a sales success. Despite its practical design, it did not appeal to the non-motorcyclist target audience, leading to modest sales. Its modest performance, heavy weight, and car-like appearance did not attract many buyers, and it was ultimately considered a failure in the market.
Did Honda continue to pursue similar concepts after the PC800?
Yes, Honda continued to pursue similar concepts after the PC800. The recent dn01 was very similar to the PC800 in general concept and engine, but it also did not find a significant market. However, companies like Honda continue to explore new concepts in the hope of bringing motorcycles back into the mainstream.