(photo: prototype)

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(photo: prototype)

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FES125 PANTHEON

Introduction Owing to recent changes in Europe’s motorcycle licensing system and everworsening urban traffic conditions that have stimulated a growing influx of new riders to the world of motorcycling, the 125cc motorcycle and scooter displacement classes are expected to witness phenomenal growth over the coming years. As riders look for new and different modes of transportation, and tastes grow more sophisticated, many riders won’t be satisfied with merely the basics, but will instead be attracted to models offering more in the way of comfort, convenience and style; models that may be more expensive, but at the same time offer an exceptionally high level of value that should win a steady stream of satisfied users. Over the years, Honda has produced scooters in several displacement categories, yet till recently has had few major models in the 125cc class.

However, with the institution of the Europe’s recent new 125cc licensing class for novice riders, all the world’s manufacturers have focused their attention on this class and are currently introducing a wealth of new models in a wide variety of styles to appeal to these new users. Parallel to the development of its recently introduced FES250 Foresight, Honda set out to create a new highend scooter for the 125cc class that offers an exceptional combination of power, prestige and comfort. Even though esthetically, this scooter may be similar to the Foresight, the technology includes a new

design innovation that optimizes combustion efficiency. The resulting new Pantheon offers qualities that extend its appeal beyond the boundaries of young new users to include more mature commuters and daily urban travellers who would be strongly attracted to the size and inherent prestige of this new ‘Commuter Express.’ In particular, this new model was targeted towards more affluent, luxury-oriented automobile drivers who have not until now shown much interest in what two-wheeled vehicles have had to offer.

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FES125 PANTHEON

Design Concept As in the development of the remarkable new Foresight, the main underlying concept behind the new Pantheon was to create a ‘Comfortable City Runabout’ that combines ample comfort, quality and ease of operation with the added convenience of a large, secure carrying capacity. Another important consideration in both the design and purchase of a scooter is the type of clothes the rider will most likely be wearing. Any alternative to a car, especially for commuters, must be able to be comfortably ridden in regular business attire, and provide adequate

protection against the wind, water and dirt of the street. This requirement among other factors tends to limit the desirability of a motorcycle in the eyes of many commuters, while adding further to the day-to-day attractiveness of a full-sized scooter.

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Cars, of course, offer larger carrying capacities than any scooter or motorcycle can realistically provide, yet it was felt that designing in an ample carrying space for work, daily shopping and leisure applications would be major attractions in scooters of these displacements.

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FES125 PANTHEON

Design Concept more responsive performance while reducing pollutant emissions and fuel consumption to levels on a par with many comparable 4-stroke machines. Like the Foresight, the new Pantheon also features the confident control of an advanced, specially adapted Combined Brake System, which effectively stops both front and rear wheels whenever the left-side brake lever is engaged, for smooth and controlled braking in virtually all riding situations.

Setting a new standard of quality in its displacement class , the new Pantheon combines impressive new design and technology, strong, smooth power delivery, confident control, luxurious proportions and spacious carrying capacity to establish itself as a premiere ‘sedan-class’ scooter in the Honda lineup and the finest vehicles of its kind on the roads today.

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One major technological feature being introduced for the first time in the new Pantheon is a revolutionary new type of 2-stroke engine that provides ample power in a small, compact size, yet with fewer of the environmental shortcomings normally associated with 2-stroke engines. Its remarkable new Activated Radical Combustion (ARC) 2-stroke design features an ingenious, computer-controlled system that regulates exhaust output to optimize combustion for smoother,

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FES125 PANTHEON

Colouring Concept The all-new Pantheon will attract admiring looks on the city scene in five stunning colour variations that complement its superb styling with strong emphasis on its quality of construction and luxurious prestige. These five colour variations include a richly reflective metallic silver that exemplifies the Pantheon’s high quality, two separate tones of metallic blue that exude a quiet urban elegance and broaden the scope of

the Pantheon’s appeal, a full-bodied metallic red that projects a crisp, lighthearted feel, and a subtly sophisticated metallic brown that emphasizes the luxurious image of these high-class riding machines.

Colours • Sparkling Silver Metallic • Traditions Blue Metallic • Granada Blue Metallic • Radiant Red Metallic • Cognac Brown Metallic

All variations feature durable resin lower cowls and body parts moulded in dark grey that provide a soothing complement to the bodywork’s attractive main colours.

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FES125 PANTHEON

Styling and Design Essentially the same in look as the new Foresight, the Pantheon’s bodywork features stunningly attractive lines that project a refreshing and exciting statement in aerodynamic design. Fully integrated from its pointed nose to its broad, stylish tail, the new Pantheon envelops its rider in quiet, comfortable luxury. Advanced Air Management Design The primary consideration in this remarkable streamlined design was providing superior wind protection for both rider and passenger, and here the Pantheon stands out from the crowd. Its sleekly pointed nose cuts cleanly through the air to create a pocket of calm behind its steering head-mounted windscreen. This protection is further enhanced by internal air ducts that flow air behind the screen and out vents positioned along the edges of the front cowl

to increase air pressure within the cockpit area and effectively expand the area of wind protection. Above the front cowl’s distinctive ‘piggyback’ headlight, the Pantheon’s large, triangular front indicators have been designed as effective ‘wing pods’ that provide extra wind protection for the hands. Air intake ports located on either side of the base of the headlight flow air down through the length of the bodywork, around the low-

centre-of-gravity fuel tank and back to the engine and radiator to provide optimal engine cooling efficiency before exiting through side vents and out the rear. While the long-nose design of the front fender contributes to enhanced riding stability, the bodywork’s elegantly sculpted rear end features stylishly integrated dual taillights with large indicators providing a distinctive rear silhouette that stands out among all other vehicles on the road.

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FES125 PANTHEON

Styling and Design Advanced ‘Piggy-Back’ Dual Headlight First introduced on Honda’s Super Sport flagship, the CBR1100XX Super Blackbird, and featured on the new Foresight, the Pantheon’s sleek new ‘piggy-back’ headlight positions the high beam directly above and behind the low beam in a single assembly. While contributing to the front cowl’s clean aerodynamics, this configuration also realizes a remarkably bright beam relative to its wattage rating.

The headlight’s separate low and high beam sections feature computer-designed ‘Free Form’ multicurvature reflectors that reflect light off their entire surface to focus all the bulb’s output through the headlight’s clear front lens in a precisely determined pattern. Since no light baffles or thick moulded glass lens are used to cut and form the shape of the illuminated area, illumination loss is minimized for a sharper illuminated area that is

not only longer and wider, but also nearly twice as bright as a conventional single or dual-bulb headlight of the same rated wattage. Tiny ‘ribs’ moulded into the bottom surface of the high-beam’s reflector diffuse the headlight’s upward reflection to minimize glare when riding in misty or foggy conditions. A small position lamp is also located at the front base of the lower unit.

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FES125 PANTHEON

Styling and Design Optimized Riding Comfort Cleanly integrated into the bodywork’s total design, the handlebar cowl and windscreen are mounted directly to the steering head in order to position the screen closer to the rider. This rearward screen positioning combines with the ‘behind-the-screen’ air flow provided by the two ducts built into the cowl to deflect the rushing wind around and over the rider for

significantly reduced wind turbulence and—especially in cold weather conditions—a level of protection to match the luxurious elegance of its overall design. This design feature also enhances riding stability by reducing handle fluctuations at higher speeds. Jets of air exiting through the rows of small ducts located along the side edges of the front bodywork also help reduce turbulence by increasing the

volume of air in the rider area and minimizing air pressure differences behind the screen. The Pantheon’s comfortable seating position is enhanced by the spacious floorboard areas on either side of the frame’s large centre hump. Offering exceptional leg positioning freedom, the floor area curves upward to allow the feet to be placed forward for a more natural riding feel.

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FES125 PANTHEON

Styling and Design Spacious Met-In Underseat Compartment The Pantheon’s comfortable 770mm seat height is 25mm higher than that of the Foresight and offers a ‘just fit’ riding position for even taller riders. Featuring excellent lower back support for the rider, the broad, deeply stepped seat also provides the higher mounted pillion passenger with a more natural riding position for superb riding comfort, as well as a clear, easy view of the road ahead. The seat is plushly upholstered in a supple, low-slip material that

offers a high-comfort fit in even cold riding conditions. The Pantheon’s locking dual seat flips up to the side to provide access to the largest built-in storage compartment ever found on this class of scooter. This spacious Met-In compartment was specially designed long and wide for maximum carrying versatility with minimal bother. Its spacious dimensions allow it to carry such otherwise unwieldy articles

as an A3-size briefcase, tennis racquets, golf clubs, or even a large bouquet of flowers with security and ease. Needless to say, it will also store such daily riding necessities as a full-face helmet (or two shallow-type open-face helmets), rain gear, and security lock, U-lock or chain. The large Met-In compartment also offers easy access to the 2-stroke engine’s oil filler, which is designed for clean and easy top-ups.

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FES125 PANTHEON

Engine Recently, 2-stroke engines have come under increasing fire as major sources of pollution and noise, and now face much stricter regulations that could eventually result in an effective ban against their use in motor vehicles, as has been the case in the USA’s state of California for several years now. With this in mind, Honda has spent years working to achieve lower emissions on a par with 4-stroke engines while emphasizing the 2-stroke configuration’s inherently stronger power-to-weight ratio. Revolutionary New ARC 2-Stroke Engine Specially designed for introduction in this ultra-modern scooter, the Pantheon’s all-new 124cm3 2-stroke engine features a remarkable design innovation that optimizes combustion efficiency for not only stronger and smoother power, but also cleaner exhaust emissions and lower fuel consumption.

Called ‘Activated Radical Combustion’ (ARC), this process is founded on a combustion phenomenon that has been widely known in engineering circles for many years. Under certain conditions, and within a narrow range of cylinder compression, the molecules of the remaining unburned fuel in a com-

bustion chamber—particularly in a 2-stroke engine—will spontaneously combust without requiring an igniting spark. The ignition of this remaining fuel often further ignites the new air/fuel mixture entering the combustion chamber from the intake, causing a continuous combustion process that is referred to as ‘run-on’ or ‘dieseling.’

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FES125 PANTHEON

Engine However, although this phenomenon has long been widely known, actually harnessing it to power an efficiently running engine required precise computer-controlled timing and other technologies not available until only very recently. After several years of intensive study and development, Honda’s engineers debuted the results of their AR research in one of the most unlikely arenas imaginable—the 1995 GranadaDakar Rally—in an experimental motorcycle powered by a unique and hitherto ‘untested’ ARC engine that effectively maintained this combustion phenomenon through the precise control of its exhaust port timing. Not only did the engine produce excellent power, it did

so while simultaneously achieving unprecedented low exhaust emissions and fuel consumption for a 2-stroke engine.

characteristics of ARC and conventional 2-stroke combustion in a highly efficient process that realizes three outstanding advantages over conventional 2-stroke engines.

Following this auspicious debut, the ARC engine first saw use in a production motorcycle with the 1996 introduction of Honda’s CRM250AR domestic market dual-purpose motorcycle. Now Honda incorporates much of this advanced ARC technology in a new, economical, high-efficiency production engine being introduced for the first time in the new Pantheon. In a simpler and muchrefined system, this compact and lightweight engine combines the

Hydrocarbon Emissions Comparison ! HC Emissions @ Engine Displacement (cm3) # Conventional 2-stroke $ Pantheon % ARC engine

Cleaner Exhaust Emissions Since combustion begins simultaneously in a multitude of locations throughout the combustion chamber, instead of spreading out like an expanding balloon from the tip of the igniting spark plug, nearly complete combustion of the gases within the chamber occurs before exiting the combustion chamber, resulting in much more efficient combustion and greatly reduced emissions of partially burned fuel and other pollutants.

Exhaust Emissions ! THC (Total Hydrocarbon) Emissions @ EURO-1 # Pantheon (w/ ARC & catalyzer) $ w/ ARC % Base model ^ CO (Carbon Monoxide) Emissions

Hydrocarbon Emissions Comparison

Exhaust Emissions

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FES125 PANTHEON

Engine Higher Fuel Economy The ARC system’s more complete fuel combustion extracts the maximum amount of power potential from a given volume of fuel, thus reducing the amount of fuel required to keep the engine running at peak efficiency and thereby reducing fuel consumption to 4-stroke levels while greatly reducing smoke output. Smoother Drivability Since this more complete combustion can be precisely maintained throughout the engine’s operating range, the higher combustion effi-

Fuel Efficiency Comparison ! 4-stroke engine @ ARC engine # Pantheon $ Fuel Efficiency (km/l) % Power Output ^ Conventional 2-stroke engine

ciency realized at low rpms results in much smoother, more responsive operation. It also virtually eliminates the incomplete combustion and stuttering that cause the engine pitching and excessive vibration normally associated with conventional 2-stroke engines. The ARC engine’s improved combustion at low engine speeds combines with improved fuel economy and reduced 2-stroke oil use to also greatly reduce 2-stroke smoke output for subsequently cleaner emissions.

Power Curve Comparison ! Power Output (PS) @ Pantheon (w/ ARC valve & catalyzer) # w/ catalyzer only $ Engine Speed (rpm)

Fuel Efficiency Comparison

Power Curve Comparison

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FES125 PANTHEON

Engine System Configuration The Pantheon’s ARC system features a servomotor-actuated butterfly valve built into the engine’s exhaust port that holds unburned gases within the combustion chamber while maintaining optimum

compression for the most effective balance of Activated Radical and conventional 2-stroke combustion. The system’s programmed electronic control unit (ECU) constantly monitors two sensors—one for

engine speed and the other for throttle opening angle—and precisely controls the high-speed servomotor that opens and closes the exhaust port ARC valve.

ARC System Diagram ! Throttle angle sensor signal @ Sensor-equipped carburettor # ECU $ CDI output % Servo motor ^ ARC butterfly valve & Metal catalyzer * Engine speed sensor signal ARC System Diagram

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FES125 PANTHEON

Engine Newly Developed Carburettor To ensure the most precise control of the AR process, the Pantheon is equipped with a newly developed 20mm piston-valve carburettor featuring a built-in throttle opening angle sensor that outputs a digital signal to the system’s ECU. Incorporating Honda’s most innovative technology, this carburettor was specially developed to achieve a compact, light and inexpensive design that ensures the new Pantheon meets Europe’s EURO-1 emissions regulations.

Compact, High-Efficiency Metal Catalyzer The low 2-stroke emissions produced by the Pantheon’s unique ARC engine design are further reduced to well below EURO-1 regulations by the inclusion of a compact, long-life metal catalyzer,

which is built into the exhaust system to effictively minimize nitrous oxide (NOX) emissions. The ARC engine’s inherently cleaner exhaust output permits a smaller, less restrictive catalyzer unit to be used, thus ensuring strong power delivery over the entire rev range. Wide-Ratio V-Matic Transmission The Pantheon’s proven stepless V-Matic transmission further ensures that the acceleration is quick and smooth. Featuring a wide ratio that takes maximum advantage of the engine’s strong low-to-midrange torque, it delivers a strong rush of acceleration and smooth, linear engine performance.

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High-Accuracy Digital CDI The new Pantheon’s high-accuracy digital CDI unit further enhances the engine’s combustion characteristics

by precisely tuning its timing for high-efficiency combustion throughout all stages of operation. The CDI’s high-accuracy, high-voltage charge also combines with the convenient push-button electric starter to ensure quick, easy starts and dependable long-term performance. A compact 12-volt maintenance-free (MF) battery provides a strong and stable electrical charge for fade-free lighting and quick, sure starts.

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FES125 PANTHEON

Chassis Offering luxurious riding enjoyment to match its superb style, the Pantheon’s strong, motorcycle-class frame and suspension provide not only large proportions to carry two in ultimate comfort, but a level of handling ease and control that are unprecedented in this class of scooter. Sturdy Frame; Sporty Suspension Since the size, weight and power output of the Pantheon’s engine is less than that of the Foresight, thinner diameter steel tubing was used in the construction of its lighter, yet highly rigid frame. This combines with a vibration-cancelling doublelink engine hanger and a responsive suspension system to provide sporty, confident handling even with a pillion passenger. Since the Pantheon’s quick and confident handling encourages spirited riding, the frame’s

centrestand pivot is positioned at a relatively high 140mm to minimize the chance of contact with the ground when leaned over in fast corners. Front suspension duties are managed by a standard motorcycle-type 33mm hydraulic front fork that provides solid handling control and smoothly assured operation. The Pantheon’s rear suspension features a single heavy-duty damper mounted at the very rear of the enclosed belt-drive swingarm for

maximum damper travel and a superbly comfortable ride for one or two. This rearward mounting position maximizes the available storage space in the large Met-In compartment while enhancing the Pantheon’s lightweight design. High-styled 5-point turbo-spoke cast aluminium wheels are mounted with wide-body tubeless tyres that offer a plush, well-controlled ride while eliminating inner tube maintenance hassles.

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FES125 PANTHEON

Chassis Innovative Combined Brake System Like the Foresight, the Pantheon is equipped with a specially adapted version of Honda’s innovative Combined Brake System for unrivalled braking ease and optimized control. This advanced, scooter-oriented system uses a single front disc brake with a Combined triple-piston caliper gripping a large-diameter 240mm rotor between resin mould pads, and a newly developed hydraulic rear drum brake first introduced on the Foresight.

In this specially adapted system, the right-side brake lever controls the two outer pistons of the front brake caliper, much like a conventional brake system. The left-side brake lever, however, controls a new combined system that actuates both the hydraulic rear drum brake and the centre piston of the front caliper. An inline delay valve to the front caliper ensures smooth braking control by permitting the rear brake to be engaged first, for a responsive feel on a par with many large motorcycles. A cable-operated parking brake is also incorporated into the left-side brake lever, and locks into place with the touch of a button.

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FES125 PANTHEON

Chassis Large-Capacity Fuel Tank The Pantheon’s large-volume 12-litre fuel tank combines with the new engine’s excellent fuel economy to make longer trips both easy and economical. Centrally positioned to enhance riding stability, its convenient fuel filler is positioned

under a locking door in the central hump of the floor area where it permits the fuel tank to be topped up almost without having to leave the seat. A vacuum-type fuel pump with automatic cut-off valve eliminates the need for a fuel petcock.

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FES125 PANTHEON

Equipment Tireless attention to detail and the highest quality of execution is revealed in every component used in the construction of the new Pantheon. • Nestled behind the large broad, stylish handlebar cowl, the Pantheon’s large, padded automotive-like instrument panel is slightly smaller and simpler in design than the panel used on the Foresight. Its deeply recessed design provides an easy view of the large central speedometer and electric fuel and coolant temperature gauges, even in direct sunlight. Indicator lights all feature large international ISO symbols printed on their faces for quick recognition, and all control switches are cleanly integrated into the moulded handlebar cover for easy operation.

• Two compact glove boxes are conveniently positioned in close proximity to the handlebars, where they keep small essentials within easy reach. The left-side box also offers the added security of a key lock. • An integrated front brake interlock minimizes the chance of sudden unexpected movement when starting by requiring that the leftside hand brake lever be pulled in before the engine can be started.

hand-holds for pillion passengers as well as solid mounts for an optional carrier or top box. • The Pantheon’s convenient sidestand folds up into a recess to maintain the bodywork’s clean, smooth lines while riding.

• Surrounding the rear of the seat, the Pantheon’s large, moulded resin hand grips provide comfortable

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FES125 PANTHEON

Optional Equipment • A wide, rugged resin rear carrier provides ample locations for hooking on bungee cords. The carrier has also been designed to carry a specially matched, colour coordinated top-box featuring an easy-mounting design and a moulded-in handle that offers exceptional carrying ease.

• Optional electrically heated hand grips provide enhanced comfort in cold weather conditions.

• Side bumper strips minimize potential damage from opening car doors and other hazards. • Handy remote control seat lock opener allows one-touch operating ease from a distance. • High-quality leatherette seat cover offers both superb comfort and prestige.

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• Another optional tubular steel rear carrier features a detachable pillion back rest and is also designed to carry a compact, customdesigned top box.

• Plastic side air visors and knuckle visors offer added protection against wind and cold.

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FES125 PANTHEON

Specifications Specifications

FES125 Pantheon (ED-type)

Engine Bore ´ Stroke Displacement Compression Ratio Carburettor Max. Power Output Max. Torque Ignition Starter Transmission Dimensions Wheelbase Seat Height Ground Clearance Fuel Capacity Wheels

Liquid-cooled Activated Radical Combustion (ARC) 2-stroke single 54 ´ 54.5mm 124.8cm3 7:1 20mm piston valve type (PHVA20) 15PS/7,000rpm (DIN) (11kW/7,000min-1) 1.5kg-m/6,500rpm (DIN) (14.7Nm/6,500min-1) Capacitor Discharge (CDI) Electric V-Matic 2,070 ´ 735 ´ 1,425mm 1,450mm 745mm 140mm 12 litres 12 ´ MT2.75 cast aluminium alloy 12 ´ MT3.50 cast aluminium alloy 110/90–12 64J (tubeless) 130/70–12 62L (tubeless) 33mm telescopic fork, 100mm cushion stroke, 88.7mm axle travel Single damper unit swingarm, 120mm cushion stroke, 96.2mm axle travel 240 ´ 4mm single hydraulic disc with Combined Brake System triple-piston caliper, drilled rotor and resin mould pads 160mm hydraulic drum with Combined Brake System 144.5kg

Tyres Suspension Brakes

(L´W´H)

Front Rear Front Rear Front Rear Front Rear

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Dry Weight

All specifications are provisional and subject to change without notice.

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