By Moses Akaigwe
The expansive factory of Honda Manufacturing (Nig.) Ltd in Ota, Ogun State, was agog recently when the leading motorcycle manufacturer in Nigeria enlivened the industry with the launch of its latest model named Ace 150.
Ace 150, a two-wheeler that flaunts power and fuel economy, was presented to a gathering of excited Honda Manufacturing dealers and the brand’s lovers who converged on the company’s plant to witness the product unveiling.
Beyond the attributes of power and fuel efficiency, the new motorcycle was further introduced as having exceptional quality, durability, innovative technology and safety features as some of its unique selling points.
Welcoming the dealers who came from different parts of the country, including Chief Bartholomew Chidiebere Achinike, from Lagos, the Managing Director of Honda Manufacturing, Mr. Tetsuya Kawai, stated that the new motorcycle was built to meet the demands of everyday use in Nigeria.
Mr. Kawai informed the guests that ACE 150 represents Honda’s commitment to providing quality products that are reliable and accessible, stating that because the company understands the needs of its customers, it always strives to offer solutions that make their lives easier.
The Managing Director said, “At Honda, we believe in building strong relationships. Our partnership with each of you, our dealers, is key to reaching more customers and making Honda a household name in every corner of this country. We are excited to see how this new model will continue to grow the Honda family in Nigeria.
“Looking ahead, we have big plans for the future. We aim to continue expanding our product offerings and strengthen our presence in Nigeria. Together, with your support, we can make Honda the top choice for every motorcycle rider in the country.”
Due to its larger 150cc, 4 stroke engine, the ACE 150 offers enhanced power compared to the older ACE 110 and ACE 125 and delivers 1.4 times more power than the two, apart from achieving a maximum speed of seven km/h.
The engine’s advanced built-in balancer ensures smoother, vibration-free ride, thereby making the new ACE 150 a bike that is very smooth to be on even when the road is rough.
The new Honda product is in every sense a modern motorcycle whose engineers are obviously in tune with the present time as evident in the meter that features fuel gauge and digital gear indicator.
Not a few of the guests were excited to note that ACE 150 is born with USB which enables the rider to charge his phone even while in motion.
The Honda Manufacturing MD had at a press briefing that preceded the launch, reiterated the company’s commitment to designing and delivering solutions that make life easier, more efficient, and, most importantly, safer for our customers in the Nigerian market.
It was in this regard, according to Kawai, that the ACE150 has been engineered with a deep understanding of the Nigerian market.
He remarked, “We know the demand for durability, reliability, and performance, especially in commercial applications, and this model embodies all of those traits. From its powerful, yet fuel-efficient engine, to its rugged design, this motorcycle is built to withstand the demands of everyday use, making it an ideal choice for riders across Nigeria.
“Whether you are using it for daily commuting, as part of your business, or for long-distance travel, the ACE150 is designed to deliver exceptional value and dependable we have performance every time.”
These unique qualities were echoed at the press conference by Mr. Olabade Badejo, Honda Manufacturing Senior Manager, CS/Sales, Sales Division; and Emmanuel Ugbebor, Sales Manager.
Responding to a question on government policies at various levels which do not favour the use of motorcycles for commercial operations, Badejo explained that such prohibitions would have little or no effect of the expected success of the ACE 150 and its older siblings.
This, according to the Senior Manager, is because the new motorcycle is not targeted at commercial (okada) operators, but is rather expected to serve the needs of dispatch riders and users in the rural areas who will take advantage of its ruggedness to traverse the rough roads.
The company used the occasion of the launch to reassure Honda motorcycle users in all parts of the country of its commitment to after-sales back-up.
“Accordingly, we have a strong commitment to after-sales service, with an extensive network of support and readily available spare parts, ensuring that our customers enjoy ling-lasting, reliable performance.”
One of the high points of the launch was the offer of a N50,000 discount on each unit of ACE 150 to the dealers.
The offer, which was valid for only the day of the launch, covered stocks paid for at the event irrespective of the number of units.
Reacting to the gesture by Honda Manufacturing, Chief Bartholomew Chidiebere Achinike, who is one of its front-running dealers, commended the company for the incentive even as he applauded their production of top quality motorcycles that are known for excellent performance.
Chief Achinike, whose Barthmore International Ltd is based in the Alaba Rago area of Alaba International, Ojo, Lagos, said it was the commitment to the production of motorcycles that satisfy the needs of customers without compromising quality standards, that has made Honda the number one in the world.
The leading Honda motorcycles dealer spoke further: “And talking about Ace 150, the ruggedness speaks volumes. The engine is powerful and at the same time fuel efficient, while the suspensions is superb.
“It is very remarkable that less than one week after ACE 150 was unveiled in Ota, the demand has been very high, because customers believe so much in Honda quality and durability which have made the brand popular.”
Achinike, whose untiring marketing efforts earned him the title of Mgborogwu Orji, said he has been with Honda for almost two decades, disclosing that the company’s sincerity in relating with dealers and its aforementioned reliable products have always encouraged him to stay committed to the brand.