How Has the Japanese Tragedy Affected Motorcycle's Big Four? |
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John V.
SubmitYOURArticle.com
March 31, 2011
The March 11th earthquake tragedy that struck Japan and subsequent nuclear concerns that followed are becoming an ongoing issue with the entire motorcycle industry. The "Big Four" of motorcycle sport bike manufacturers include Honda, Kawasaki, Yamaha, and Suzuki, and each has major research and development and corporate concerns in and around the stricken areas. With relief efforts continuing, these companies have released little information.
Honda's comments have been widely regarded as the industry's collective thoughts: Honda has halted production at all factories, including the Kumamoto Factory where Honda produces the CBR600, VFR1200F, DN-01 and its Super Cub. Honda says that from March 24 on it will make decisions "based on the status of the recovery of parts supply as well as Japanese society as a whole." They add: "We deeply regret any inconvenience this may cause our customers, and request their understanding during these challenging times."
To help out Japan Earthquake victims, Honda has donated 300 million yen, more than 1,000 generators - with its staff explaining how to use the generators - along with 5,000 gas canisters toward the relief and recovery effort. Honda also is co-operating with "rolling electricity blackouts," to minimize electric power usage. Rolling electricity outages are done to avoid total electric blackout; electricity demand is sensitive to supply capability due to nuclear plant breakdowns. Honda said it would update the motorcycle community periodically to let the public know more information. Honda's MotoGP World Champion rider Casey Stoner said, "Our hearts and thoughts are with everyone in Japan."
Yamaha reported its factories were not damaged, keeping them open to re-evaluation while cooperating in rolling electricity blackouts. Suzuki said it was suspending production until it decides when to return. Kawasaki has not yet released any information, nor said if the catastrophe had any impact on the manufacturer. Much of the world's motorcycle industry is reliant on the Japanese manufacturers and their large selection of products and parts. There can be an increase in costs expected with the turmoil surrounding these companies in Japan. Some American manufacturers have expressed concern with this.
Aside from the monetary toll, the human casualties could be a sad story for some of these Japanese manufacturers. Please help support any and all of the Japanese relief efforts currently happening in the motorcycle, motocross, and ATV communities. Motorcycle riding enthusiasts, take your time looking, and you'll find everything motorcycle, outdoors, ATV, or off-road related you need.