Honda NM4 Scooter Returns for 2018

Some loved it while others hated it, but there's no denying that Honda's scooter-cruiser called the NM4 grabbed attention and started conversations ever since the concept first debuted at the Osaka Motorcycle Show in 2014. And now, following a one-year production hiatus, Honda has just announced that NM4 will return to the lineup for the 2018 model year.

The NM4’s anime styling has developed somewhat of a cult following internationally, and a modified version of this already futuristic design has even won a part in an upcoming major Hollywood science-fiction film.

"From time to time over the years, Honda has pushed the envelope with unconventionally styled models like the Pacific Coast, Rune, Big Ruckus and DN-01," said Lee Edmunds, American Honda's Manager of Motorcycle Marketing Communications. "The NM4 is very much in this tradition, and while it's not for everyone, that's really the point; the model has proven to be a hit with a dedicated segment of consumers from a surprisingly varied array of demographics, including tech-savvy millennials but also veteran tourers and women. Those that buy NM4s tend to put a lot of miles on them, so we're pleased to welcome announce it as our first street bike for 2018."

The NM4’s low center of gravity combined with the forward-rotated mounting of the liquid-cooled 670cc parallel-twin engine, results in a comfortable, light-handling motorcycle with a low-slung, feet-forward cockpit that most find very easy to reach the ground at stops. The passenger seat converts into a flip-up, adjustable backrest, and the bodywork provides ample wind protection and four separate storage compartments. Gear changes are accomplished via a high-tech, smooth-shifting Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), which has standard and sport automatic modes but can also be manually shifted via handlebar-mounted buttons. The innovative, customizable LED dash display features color-coding for the transmission modes and delivers a host of information, including fuel-mileage tracking.

Once again the NM4 will come in Matte Black Metallic, and the 2018 model will be available in June 2017 with an MSRP of $11,299.