
Honda is using this year's London International Boat Show to stage the European launch of its new look 'Honwave' inflatables range.
In response to feedback from customers and dealers, changes to the much acclaimed range aim to bring enhanced ease of use, fuel economy and styling; in line with Honda's continued commitment to innovation and technology.
Changes to the range include restyled fittings that offer a more streamlined and modern look, and ergonomic cleat style handles designed for comfort and ease of lifting by spreading the boat's weight load evenly in the palm of the hand. Colour schemes have also been updated - with the rubbing strake, transom and seats now in grey - and ropes changed from white to dark blue.
Additional fabric lifting handles have been added to certain models (T30, T32, T35 and T40), which are situated between the tubes at the rear. The result is that two people can now lift the boat easily and it can be turned on its length in a tight turning area. A tough polymer pad has also been added to the rear to protect the bottom of the boat when storing vertically or during mooring.
Dual seating positions on larger models (T35/T38 and T40) allow the standard single seat to be positioned in one of two areas, while owners can purchase an additional seat to take a passenger in comfort.
Superior fuel economy can be achieved through the introduction of an improved fuel tank position on the T27 and T32 models. The tank has been moved further forward, changing the weight distribution of the boat, thus improving the boat’s balance and performance in the water.
Geoff Matthews, General Manager of Honda (UK) Power Equipment commented:
"As the lead market in Europe for Honwave, the UK is the ideal venue to reveal the new look range. These changes have come about as a result of listening to customer and dealer feedback and we are confident that they will further enhance what is already a very strong product range for anyone looking for an excellent ‘ready to go’ boat package."
Originally launched in March 2004, the Honwave range of complete boat packages varies from two to four metres in length. The range is available with a choice of slatted, aluminium or inflatable floor. Made from premium quality materials, the Honwave range is built for comfort, safety, reliability and durability.
Notes to Editors
10 key features of Honda inflatable boats:
Four lifting rings allowing hassle-free stowing
Top quality security features such as safety handles and lifelines
Reinforced fibreglass transom and seat
Inboard one-way drain valve for fast efficient bailing
Detachable oars for convenient stowing
Reserve tank fixed under seat for space saving and weight distribution
Largest buoyancy tubes in the market, ensuring stability and floatation
Extra-wide exterior rubber strake, ensuring maximum protection
Deep-V hull design, enhances overall performance
Reinforced keel and tube bottoms