Honda has officially produced its 500 millionth motorcycle, setting a world record no other manufacturer has yet matched. The milestone, achieved in May 2025, comes 76 years after the brand began mass production with the iconic Dream D-Type in 1949. Press: Honda MPE

Honda’s global impact on motorcycling is undeniable. Since the company’s inception in 1948, it has remained committed to developing motorcycles that make everyday life easier, more enjoyable, and more mobile. From humble beginnings in post-war Japan, Honda has gone on to become the largest motorcycle manufacturer in the world, thanks to a philosophy of localised production and a reputation for reliability.

In 1963, Honda became the first Japanese manufacturer to begin overseas motorcycle production, setting up a plant in Belgium. This marked the beginning of an aggressive international expansion. In the decades since, Honda has opened 37 production facilities in 23 countries and regions and now maintains a global dealer network of over 30,000 locations.

By 1997, Honda had reached 100 million motorcycles produced, a feat that took 48 years. Since then, the growth has been exponential. The 200 millionth motorcycle rolled off the line in 2008, the 300 millionth in 2014, and the 400 millionth in 2019. Just six years later, the company has added another 100 million to its tally.

Despite a dip in global production during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Honda has since rebounded strongly. Annual motorcycle production once again exceeds 20 million units, and in 2024, the company began a major global push into electric two-wheelers. This new phase of development positions electrification as a key strategy in Honda’s mission to achieve carbon neutrality.

The CX650 absolutely hammers. It punches off corners and has a cracking top end. The chassis is not up to cope with it but the geometry allows it to get away with being a good handler anyway. It is also seriously comfy and would be a great touring bike even today!

“Honda has a huge history in Australia that has generated a large following of loyal Honda owners,” said Chris Schultz, General Manager of Powersports and Products at Honda Australia. “We are proud to be a part of this incredible story.”

Honda’s product range today is as diverse as ever, spanning everything from electric scooters and urban commuters to high-performance sportbikes and touring machines. The company’s aim is to ensure that riders of all backgrounds, experience levels, and needs can find joy and freedom on two wheels.

2017 Honda CRF450R

President and Representative Executive Officer Toshihiro Mibe acknowledged the significance of the achievement, describing motorcycles as “our founder’s business” and reaffirming the brand’s commitment to motorcycling as a core pillar of Honda’s identity. “We have built the trust of our customers through our many products and services,” Mibe said. “Honda will continue to take on the challenge of expanding the joy of our customers around the world.”

Honda CR750

A ceremony to mark the 500 million milestone was held at Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) in Gujarat, attended by senior executives including Minoru Kato, Masanori Shimazoe, Toshio Kuwahara, and Tsutsumu Otani. The Indian plant was chosen to highlight Honda’s ongoing investment in emerging markets, where demand for affordable, efficient two-wheel transport continues to soar.

From the revolutionary Super Cub to the legendary CB750 and today’s electric initiatives, Honda’s journey to 500 million motorcycles reflects decades of innovation, evolution, and global reach. With the next chapter focused on sustainability and smart mobility, the world’s most prolific motorcycle manufacturer shows no signs of slowing down.

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