The impact of the "playful spirit"! Honda Zoomer pioneers the naked scooter category [Nostalgia Catalog Treasure House, Vol. 2

The Zoomer, introduced by Honda in 2001, is a unique model with a rugged pipe frame structure that overturns the conventional wisdom of scooters. By daring to leave the storage space "bare," it stimulated users' free creativity and attracted enthusiastic support as a tool that allowed them to build their own unique style.

Innovative styling filled with a "tool-like" feel that defies common sense

The most distinctive feature of the Zoomer is its naked-style form, which eliminates the cowl. The frame, constructed mainly from a bare pipe frame, is simple but has a strong presence. A 15-watt dual headlight is placed at the front, and combined with the wide pipe handlebars, it creates a unique originality. Powerful, ultra-thick fat tires are mounted underfoot, and the rear fender is also designed to emphasize the boldness of the frame. Each of these parts has been meticulously finished, and the overall design has an overall "tool-like" appeal that exudes a sense of tooliness. This approach of daring to show mechanical elements hidden in conventional scooters as design elements had a big impact, especially among young people with a high sense of fashion.

Zoomer's first appearance (2001) catalog

It's a fashionable design that doesn't assert too much of a motorcycle silhouette.

Its distinctive style was consistent from the first generation to the last. The design skills of the "N Project" street model development team shined through!

The first generation came in three colors: orange, white, and black, but new colors were added one after another. The price at the time was 189,000 yen.

Play Pockets" Support Free Thinking and Environmental Performance

The vast free space under the seat is the core of the Zoomer, which Honda named the "Play Pocket. Instead of a sealed trunk like a regular scooter, it was made "scuzzy" on purpose, offering endless possibilities for use depending on your ideas. The bike can be loaded with bags or skateboards, or a rubber net can be attached to create a unique storage style, allowing the user's individuality to directly affect the bike's expression. At the heart of the bike is a liquid-cooled 4-stroke 50cc engine. The engine was developed under the theme of being clean, silent, economical, and tough. In addition, a blow-by gas reduction system is employed to achieve a high level of environmental performance. In 2007, a new electronically controlled fuel injection system (PGM-FI) was introduced to further improve environmental performance and startability. This evolution not only provides smooth acceleration and ample power, but also complies with strict emission regulations.

In 2003, the color scheme was revamped.

A military-like green color was introduced. The catalog also has a full range of functional appeals.

The ability to store a skateboard is very street bike-like.

Red was also added during 2003.

A full range of theft deterrent and practical features

Zoomer is equipped not only for fun, but also for everyday usability and security. The key cylinder, which integrates the main switch and handlebar lock mechanism, is equipped with a shutter function to block the keyhole. The fuel tank cap is also keyed, and other measures have been thoroughly implemented to deter tampering and theft. On the practical side, there is a storage space behind the seat for securing a U-shaped lock, and several convenient cargo hooks for securing ropes and other items. Rider-friendly features include a push-cancel indicator switch to prevent forgetting to turn off the indicator, and a maintenance-free battery that does not need to be rehydrated. The Zoomer gained popularity for its rugged "gear feel," but the fact that it is just as functional as an ordinary scooter is indicative of Honda's no-frills philosophy.

In 2006, the Zoomer Deluxe lineup included a metallic paint job with white seats.

In 2006, the rare pastel-toned "Vice Blue" and "Moonstone Silver Metallic" were released as limited-time colors.

In 2007, it was slightly improved with push-cancel indicators and other minor modifications, while being injection-oriented.

Due to its popularity, the "10th Anniversary Model" was introduced in 2011. It featured red seats and an exclusive logo.

The Zoomer became the last model in 2012. However, it is still seen on the streets and was a popular model with a unique personality!

Honda Zoomer (2012): main specifications

Overall length x width x height: 1,860 mm x 735 mm x 1,025 mm - Distance between axles: 1,265 mm - Minimum ground clearance: 145 mm - Seat height: 735 mm - Weight: 87 kg - Engine: AF69E, liquid-cooled 4-stroke OHC 49cc single cylinder - Maximum output: 3.1 kW (4.2 PS)/8, 500 rpm Maximum Torque: 4.0 N-m (0.41 kgf-m)/5,500 rpm ・Fuel Tank Capacity: 4.8 liters ・Transmission Type: Continuously variable (V-matic) ・Brake Type (F/R): F=Mechanical leading-trailing / R=Mechanical leading-trailing ・Tire Size (F/R) /R): F=120/90-10 57J / R=130/90-10 61J ・Sales price: 243,000 yen (at the time) To the gallery (13)