Honda motorcycles deliveries delayed by earthquake

Honda had temporarily suspended operations at its Kumamoto (Ozu-machi, Kikuchi-gun, Kumamoto Prefecture) motorcycle factory after two devastating earthquakes hit the area in south-western Japan. There have been delays in the deliveries of the Africa Twin and Goldwing models and they are expected to begin deliveries after the re-opening.

Honda had halted operations at the factory until April 22 but that has been postponed until Friday, May 6, 2016. In a letter to all Australian Honda dealers, Honda Australia, General Manager, Peter Singleton says, “It  may be weeks before the full effects of the earthquake are known, it will be at least three weeks before we can grasp the effect due to the large production quantities. We can identify at least 40 units destined for Australia which were due to be shipped this week.”

Delivery of the 2016 Goldwing was also affected, although there are some units already on the water. The flagship motorcycle factory also makes the CBR1000RR Fireblade, VFR1200G, NC750X, CRF250X as well as parts for many overseas models.

“It will take time to understand the knock-on effect for other production countries, particularly Thailand. We don’t know the situation for parts vendors located near the factory. A damaged vendor may present the biggest risk for resuming production. Earthquakes and Tsunami are a part of Japanese life and the country and companies respond quickly to rebuild. I thank you for your patience and understanding at this time,” he added.

Honda has announced that the factory will resume production in stages and is expected to achieve full operation in mid-August 2016.