Honda has a long history of manufacturing motorcycles, and throughout their journey, they’ve maintained a design that includes a throttle control for the engine and foot pedals for brakes and gear shifting. With the introduction of scooters, the lower components were eliminated, and the brakes were moved to the handlebars.
However, Honda’s latest patent reveals a new direction. It indicates their plan to introduce a foot pedal on scooters, but unlike vintage Vespas with foot brakes, Honda’s new pedal will function as an accelerator, similar to automobiles.
The patent describes a vehicle resembling the Honda Spacy scooter but with a foot-operated accelerator. The Japanese patent drawing details label the pedal attached to the floor as a “foot accelerator.”
According to experts at Ride Apart, this invention could be in response to upcoming changes in Japanese scooter laws, which may discontinue the 50cc engine option. The foot accelerator may be intended for future 125cc and larger engine scooters.
Having a foot-operated accelerator would undoubtedly reduce the burden on the rider’s hands, especially during long journeys. While cruise control could address this issue, Honda seems to believe that riders would prefer the familiarity of a motorcycle with a foot accelerator.
It’s worth noting that the patent also shows Honda will retain a hand-operated throttle control, giving riders the option to use either their hand or foot to regulate the vehicle’s power.
This information is based on a patent, and Honda has not released any official statements regarding its implementation. Further research and testing are likely before we see this innovation on specific scooter models in the future.
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