Honda has released a new teaser video showing its forced-induction V3 engine running on the dyno for the first time. The 50-second video provides the first look and sound of the new triple-cylinder powerplant, after it was first shown at a motorcycle trade show last year.
The engine is a 75-degree water-cooled triple arranged in a V layout. It is the world's first motorcycle to use an electric motor-powered compressor for air intake, instead of the usual crankshaft-driven supercharger. According to Honda, this design is more compact.
At the end of the teaser, a strange whooshing sound can be heard from the compressor and a short start-up sound, suggesting that we may see a full demonstration of the system in the coming months. While no full specs have been released, it has been confirmed that the system is up and running, but no information has been released on power figures and exact capacity.
There is also a scene in the video showing a complete motorcycle—a naked roadster-type—which could signal a full bike reveal this year. According to Honda, this technology is focused on delivering performance, providing the power of a larger engine but with a smaller capacity. It is expected to be the basis for a new line of models.
At the motor show, an official said that “we could see a full prototype in 2025.” This means that the public could potentially see the full version of the motorcycle soon.
