New V3 engine: Unusual design with electric compressor
At the heart of the concept presented is a V3 engine with an angle of 75 degrees between the rear and the two front cylinders. The compact, top-mounted electric compressor ensures an improved intake air supply. A decisive advantage over conventional turbochargers is that this compressor does not operate in the hot exhaust gas flow, which means less stress on the material. In addition, the electronic control system enables precise adjustment of the engine characteristics, which should both increase performance and reduce consumption in the partial load range.
A minor disadvantage of this system is the energy consumption of the compressor itself, as it relies on an electric drive and therefore requires electricity.
Rolling chassis: Lightweight chassis as the basis?
While Honda has not yet published any complete technical data on the new V3 engine, the engine was already presented in a “rolling chassis” at the EICMA. This was an almost complete chassis with a slim steel trellis frame, an aluminum single-sided swingarm at the rear and an upside-down fork at the front. The configuration shown suggests possible road models with 17-inch wheels, which makes use as a supermoto quite conceivable.
Design proposal from New Zealand: Honda V3 850.SM
New Zealand hobby designer Nick, known as muzza.nz, caused a stir on social media when he presented a design for a possible supermoto based on the new Honda engine at the end of 2024. He wrote:
“All I want for Christmas is a Honda V3 850 SM with a supercharger! Honda’s beautiful new V3 concept with supercharger must end up in something other than just a fully clad supersport model.”
His design shows a slim supermoto, which seems plausible with an estimated displacement of around 850 to 900 cubic centimeters. With a weight of less than 200 kilograms and an output of more than 100 hp, this model could become a real next-generation fun bike.
Official announcement from Honda: Further V3 models planned
Whether Honda will actually develop a supermoto with the new supercharged V3 remains to be seen. However, the company has already confirmed that various models are planned based on this engine. An official statement said:
“The potential of this new concept is obvious and offers breathtaking possibilities in terms of future models. Honda will continue the development of its new V3 engine with a view to series production and mass production, with the aim of further enabling its customers worldwide to enjoy the unique pleasure of riding and owning fascinating motorcycles.”
Conclusion: plenty of potential for new models
Honda has made a strong statement with the presentation of the supercharged V3 at EICMA 2024. The innovative drive concept offers numerous possibilities for future models. Whether it will actually result in a slim supermoto remains to be seen. What is certain, however, is that the motorcycle world is eagerly awaiting Honda’s next steps.
