HONDA DN 01 test

Darth Vador's ride
Motorbike or scooter, motorbike or scooter?... It’s the dilemma that divides fans of two-wheeled machinery and has been the topic of many a heated debate. Honda’s latest offering seems to be a little bit confused in its identity. Its code name is DN 01.




Initially designed as a prototype, what sets the DN01 apart initially is its looks. With a nose like that and distinctive lines, this is not one for the discrete. It is always going to be a head-turner. The looks of this machine are likely to be one of, if not the deciding factor in its purchase.

In terms of features, one of the things that makes it scooter-like is its automatic transmission. The biggest surprise when you climb on board the DN01 is the lack of a clutch. Everything is controlled with the thumb, with three modes – Normal, Sport and Manual. Stopping power is provided by a braking system with integrated ABS.

The footbrake allows a better transfer of pressure to the rear end in hard-braking situations. The hand brake is fine for more gentle use, and is positioned on the right hand side, making it difficult to use when you’re already applying the front brake.

On a practical note, the DN01 lacks any real storage space, except for the small space under the seat which fits a U-lock.

The handlebars push the rider towards the back of the bike. The digital display feels like it’s a long way away and low down, hidden under the protective screen, however, it is still readable.

The light fits with the general design of the bike – carefully profiled, with two cruising lights and a central main beam. At the rear, there is an LED brake light and tinted indicators.

Time now to put it to the test…

The DN01 is long and low, while your feet sit well forward. It’s another dividing aspect of this bike – you don’t ride it in the same radical style as a racing bike, in fact, quite the opposite. You find yourself pushed towards the back of the seat, slightly to the right. Knee room is limited, especially if you’re over 1.8 metres tall, when the fuel tank really starts to get in the way
The low guards prevent you from taking any real angles.

All in all, behind the aggressive exterior, it’s actually quite a gentle beast.

Easy to learn for a scooter rider – the principal is accelerate and brake! – and well suited to town riding.

In a less urban environment, you can start to play with the different automatic transmission modes. The Sport mode has a lively edge to it, making it immediately appealing, while the manual mode will keep those happy that would rather change gear themselves, but you soon realise how efficient the automatic is.

The twin cylinder 680cc engine is very capable on short runs into the countryside. It’s more the riding position and constant windblast that would put you off travelling any great distance.

The suspension handles small bumps in the road with no real difficulty, and the ABS system works well.

However, the length of the bike and its 270kg make it hard to manoeuvre at low speeds. With a turning circle with radius 3.2 metres, it takes multiple attempts to turn around on smaller roads.

The Honda DN01 is clearly the exception to the rule. It combines unusual styling with a riding simplicity that will suit any type of rider.





So for those that like to stand out from the pack, Honda has something for you here. Low to the ground, with ravishing looks, it costs 11990 euros.