Honda Preserves Its ‘Best Automaker’ StandingBy Stacey wilsonStrategic Vision Inc., the San Diego-based company which is responsible for the annual vehicle competition, has released its results. According to their survey, Honda Motor Co. is still the ‘best automaker’ for this year. Strategic Vision has surveyed over 64,000 individuals who have purchased new vehicles from October 2005 to March 2006. Respondents have been questioned subsequent to 90 days of ownership. The company’s purpose in coming up with the survey is to know whether said purchasers are satisfied. Also, said survey is aimed at gauging the performance of automakers. Honda Motor Co. has hold on to its survey ranking. Toyota Motor Co., on one hand, has won in 3 categories but lost in some segments of the competition. General Motors Corp. has won in 4 segments. Hyundai Motor Co. has alleviated its standing by enhancing Kia parts integrated in Optima, Azera, Sedona and Tucson. Optima grabbed the top spot for the medium car category. Azera and Sedona also bagged the top commendation for large car and minivan, respectively. Finally, Tucson was dubbed as the top-ranked small SUV.
Honda’s preservation of its ranking was drawn from the success of Civic, Accord Coupe and Pilot. Honda Civic won in the compact pickup category with the Ridgeline. Honda Accord Coupe, made it big in the mid-specialty car segment. Honda Pilot was declared the top medium crossover SUV.“One thing about Honda that is just really clear: They have the strongest brand equity of any brand out there," says Alexander Edwards, president of Strategic Vision's automotive research group. “But Toyota has been moving slower than other brands when it comes to innovation.”Edwards mentioned Ridgeline as one of the great contributions of Honda. So far, said model is one of the most costly compact pickups. It is equipped with power Honda parts including the revolutionary tailgate and a folding rear bench seat. “Such features, combined with Honda's perceived reliability and durability, help boost the brand's value,” says Edwards.Edwards further noted that Toyota must be careful not to become complacent. He added, “Everybody is looking at them and asking, where are they weak?”As a former news correspondent for an auto-related website, Stacey has gathered extensive knowledge and experience in the automotive industry. This 34 year old mother of two from Memphis is a genuine car lover.

Honda Dirt Bikes - Everyone Wants A HondaBy Mark SturgeThere are dirt bikes, and then there are Honda dirt bikes. A Honda represents speed, power and maneuverability (making it obvious why they are the top-sellers). Quality is its ultimate trademark, however, and a Honda dirt bike never fails to please.And, with a wide range of choices, you are sure to find one tailored for your racing style--whether professional or amateur, you will see and feel the difference of Honda dirt bikes. It's not just riding or racing; it becomes an experience.And, to fully enjoy that experience, you should understand all aspects of what makes Honda dirt bikes... well, a Honda dirt bike. Don't cringe. Some history lessons are worth knowing.Honda is a name that summons respect in the biking world, though no one would have guessed that from its dubious beginnings and low sales. When Soichiro Honda opened the first store in Los Angeles in 1959, the reception was tepid at best. The American people were already devoted to their Harleys and Triumphs. Honda tried, in vain, for that first year to sell his products, but was only able to come up with 1700 units. The American market refused to let him in.Overseas, however, things were different. In Japan, Honda was the number one selling bike (an estimated 500,00 units sold). Throughout Europe, the bikes were starting to win races and garner attention. Honda was the top-player. But, in America, they were nothing: just funny looking bikes that didn't seem powerful enough to fit the image motorcycles had crafted.That was about to change.Soichiro was not about to give up on the American and decided to change the perceptions linked to bikes. They were no longer for hulking men with beards and dirty leather jackets; they were for anyone who just wanted a ride around town. Honda began a campaign of happiness, blanketing the market with everyday men and woman riding his bikes, all grinning and cheerful. The result was a new way to look at bikes--Honda's were seen as the better choice, the every-man choice.They've remained that way ever since.And the reason they've remained on top? They offer great selection and great quality.Now, if you're purchasing one of your first Honda dirt bikes, you need to see which part of that great selection works best for you. There are many bikes to choose from and you want to pick perfection. So, first decide what it is you intend to do--are you looking to start racing professionally, or are you just wanting something solid to ride the trails with? Whatever your scenario, there is a Honda dirt bike built for you.Honda dirt bikes - Motocross Division:CR125R: A constant winner in races, the CR125R is a lightweight and easy to handle bike. With a 125cc engine, it's also a powerful one. Sporting a price tag of $5,449, this is not for the casual racer.CR250R: Few can think of champions without thinking of this Honda selection. Toted as the "best 250-class two-stroke that's ever been", the CR250R is ideal for racing. It typically runs at $6,399.CRF250R (4-stroke): Extremely lightweight and fast, this is a 250cc with a four-stroke and is already being hailed as the bike to beat in competition. Its price tag is affordable, being set at $6,199.CRF450R (4-stroke): A retuned version of an old favorite, this bike features tighter suspension and enhanced engine performance. Honda is pushing this as one of their best and, at $6,899, it should be.Honda dirt bikes - Off-road:CRF250X: Named the 'Best Bike' by Dirt Rider, the CRF250X is a marvel of off-road ability. Light, agile and blessed with a four-stroke, this will take you wherever you want to be. Priced at $6,399.CRF450X: A coupling of Honda's most popular features, this bike has it all: greater torque, wider gear ratios and more supple suspension. At $7,199, the CRF450X is the ultimate off-road bike.XR400R: At $5299, this reliable bike is a bargain, and the favored choice of 90 percent of rental companies. It's guaranteed quality and ability.XR650R: A champion of unrivaled proportions, the XR650R is aluminum framed bike that will leave everyone speechless. At a relatively low $6,299, this bike represents winning.Honda dirt bikes - Mini dirt bikes:CR85R (2-stroke): Smaller than most of its competitors, this bike still causes fear wherever it rides. Fast and blessed with Honda's reliability, this $3,099 will keep you ahead of the rest.CR85RB (2-stroke): Made for the long run, the CR854RB offers fully adjustable suspension and a more than capable engine. Ideal for younger riders, this bike is priced at $6,190.CRF100F: At an inexpensive $2,319, this bike has all the look of a racing champion without the price tag. Featuring a four-stroke power and comfortable seating, riding has never been this easy.CRF50F: If the kids are interested in dirt biking, this model is ideal for them. Semiautomatic transmission and built for whatever situation, this is the perfect bike. It's priced at $1,299.CRF70F: Clutchless shifting and semiautomatic transmission make this the easiest bike available for those just starting out. Sleek and reliable, the CRF70F costs $1,599 and is guaranteed quality.Honda dirt bikes stand for quality and performance… what else could you want for your hard earned cash?Mark Sturge is the webmaster at http://www.dirtbike-action.com A site where visitors can find information on Honda dirt bikes and other ranges such as yamaha dirt bikes as well as useful hints and tips for dirtbike enthusiasts.

Best Performance Accessories for the Honda CRV 2005 now available at Parts TrainBy Jenny McLaneThe Honda CR-V has a new look for the upcoming model year with newly designed front grill, cylindrical-shaped headlights and aerodynamic front bumper. A new side sill and side protector adorns the side of the CR-V, while newly designed rear combination lights and rear bumper enhance the rear of the vehicle.
The CR-V is offered in three trim levels. All come with a four-cylinder engine. All are available with a five-speed automatic transmission; a five-speed manual is available on the mid-level model. All models now feature new retractable grab rails and larger seatback pockets. On the EX trim level, steering mounted audio controls and outside temperature gauge has been added.
Added features for the new Honda CRV includes redesigned lamps, front bumper, headlight, side still and front grille, standard five speed automatic transmission,16" wheel for all trim levels, plus new EX alloy wheel design and LX steel wheel design, new arch flare with one-piece mud guard, improved ivory interior color, new integrated keyless remote entry. It also has a new cam-driven Real Time' 4WD mechanism on all models (replaces hydraulic pump-type system), new Special Edition trim level that includes heated leather seats and door mirrors, leather steering wheel and shift knob, body-colored bumpers, side molding, door handles and hard spare tire cover. It also has ABS, VSA and front side airbags standard on all trim levels.
The CR-V offers only one engine, a 2.4-literL/160-horse inline-four bolted to a smooth and responsive five-speed automatic transmission. The CR-V's standard equipment list includes electronic stability control and traction control, anti-lock brakes, front seatbelt pretensioners, and front and side airbag, side curtain airbags. A new, smarter, cam-driven 4WD system replaces the outgoing hydraulic pump-type mechanism.
For 2005, the front grille and front bumper have been redesigned to improve aerodynamics, and cylindrical headlights added to complement the stronger appearance. The CRV is one of the best car-based SUVs on the market yet it is competitively priced.
Shop for discount car parts and accessories from Parts Train's online performance or OEM Replacement auto parts catalog at http://www.partstrain.com/ShopByVehicle/HONDA In stock are thousands of Honda parts for all enthusiasts. Find OEM Honda auto parts, remanufactured parts, new aftermarket parts, used parts, Honda performance parts, and more. From engine and radiator parts to filters, wipers, auto body parts and trim and a whole lot more, you'll find everything to repair and maintain your Honda.
Keywords: Honda CRV,CR-V,bumper,wheel,partsJenny McLane, Los Angeles, California, USApartstrain.com/The author is a 36 year old native of Des Moines, Iowa and has a knack for research on cars and anything and everything about it. She works full time as a Market Analyst for one of the leading car parts suppliers in the country.

Only the Best Aftermarket Parts and Performance Accessories for the 2005 Honda Element
By Jenny McLane
All 2005 EX Elements will feature anti-lock brakes and front side airbags as standard equipment. EX models will also benefit from MP3 and Windows Media(TM) Audio (WMA) playback capability as well as standard XM(R) Satellite Radio.

Honda's 2.4-liter, i-VTEC, 4-cylinder engine with 160-horsepower and 161 lb.-ft. of torque is coupled to either a 4-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual transmission and provides good acceleration while maintaining fuel economy in the low- to mid-twenties. The i-VTEC system (the "i" stands for "intelligent") combines Honda's patented VTEC system with Variable Timing Control (VTC) to enhance low rpm torque while extending high rpm horsepower. Honda's Real Time 4WD(TM) system is available on all models and 16-inch wheels are standard. Its chassis features a Toe Control Link MacPherson strut suspension in front and a compact double-wishbone suspension in the rear

The 2005 Honda Element comes in two trim levels, LX and EX. The LX ($17,450) comes with air conditioning with micron filtration, power windows, power door locks, power mirrors, cruise control, an adjustable steering column, and a four-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo. (The base DX model has been dropped for 2005.)

EX adds side-impact airbags and anti-lock brakes (ABS); aluminum wheels; remote keyless entry; a passenger-side armrest; and a seven-speaker, 270-watt AM/FM/CD audio system
with XM Satellite Radio capability plus an auxiliary input for MP3, WMA, or other digital media. Blue cladding and trim accent Silver EX models, while Red and Magnesium EX models feature black trim.

Honda Element provides the most versatile package for any vehicle in its price range. It has a hard flat floor like a pickup, an enclosed rear area like an SUV, fuel economy and maneuverability similar to a car, side cargo doors, and available 4-wheel-drive.
The Element earned a five-star rating for both driver and front-seat passenger in the federal (NHTSA) frontal crash test. The 2005 EX models include ABS and front-seat side-impact airbags; the latter designed to protect driver and front-passenger's torsos. Curtain airbags, designed for head protection in a side impact or rollover, are not available.

Featuring more powerful and fuel efficient engines, innovative assistance systems, a wide range of safety features, as well as a superior standard of equipment, the new Honda Element of today need no less than superior Honda replacement parts when the need arises.

This is where Parts Train comes in. Having a vast array of well crafted Honda Replacement Parts, Performance Parts, Aftermarket Parts to choose from its online store at http://www.partstrain.com/ShopByVehicle/HONDA available 24 hours a day to serve your most demanding Honda auto parts needs.
Jenny McLane is a 36 year old native of Iowa and has a knack for research on cars and anything and everything about it. She works full time as a Market Analyst for one of the leading car parts suppliers in the country today.

The History of Honda's Classic Acura
By MICAH BLEECHER
The classic Acura was one of Honda's biggest gambles. Japanese vehicles had a reputation for being economical above all else, putting functionality over form. Thus, when Honda unleashed the Acura on the Western market, the sense of shock at seeing a Japanese luxury vehicle took a while to die down. Some might argue that the classic Acura design generated a shock that never really died down. After all, the arrival of the Acura heralded the release of more Japanese luxury vehicles into Western markets, something that had been previously unheard of.

Debuting in 1986 after nearly ten years of development and design, Honda released the Acura, which became a success. In 1990, Honda announced plans to expand their manufacturing and research operations in the US, the company's primary market for the classic Acura. At the same time, plans are set into motion dealing with how to release the Acura into other markets, such as Canada and Europe. In 1991, Honda successfully released the Acura into the Hong Kong market, as well as integrated new technology into the design to improve performance. Unfortunately, design problems led to slower sales in the mid-1990s, which prompted Honda to both reduce production and attempt to do a major re-tooling of the overall design of the vehicle. However, at the same time, the niche market of import tuners were drawn to the Acura because it was easy to modify.

The classic Acura designs were eventually revamped in 2000, which did away with what many described as bland design elements. The new designs,

www.totally-honda.com
combined with technologies to upgrade the performance and fuel efficiency, and decreased costs, allowed Honda to once again make the Acura one of the main import luxury vehicles in the market. Combined with the retained ease of modification that attracted car tuners to them in the previous decade, the effect was a startling resurgence to the initial strong showing that the Acura made when it was first introduced to the market. Later models followed the concept of a luxury vehicle at an affordable price, with good features and some customization options. So far, the strategy has been successful.

In 2004, the classic Acura designs were revamped into the Acura TSX for the European market. Apart from the upgraded design and internal systems, it was also given four-wheel drive and a 4-cylinder engine. Minor modifications were made to make the Acura TSX more suitable for the European market. The new design was received well by the market and quickly became one of the premier import luxury cars in the European market at the time.

However, certain features like rear wheel drive and V8 engines, have become prominent among the competitors of the classic Acura. Honda currently is sticking to its guns in maintaining the simple but elegant design, combined with functional technologies and systems. While opinions vary, there is some worry over the fact that the latest models have not been as tuner-friendly as previous ones. Some speculate that Honda will have to once again rethink the design of the classic Acura in order to keep up.
For more valuable information on Classic Acura, please visit classifieds.itrustmotors.com//cgi-bin/classifieds.cgi?db=classic