Half a Billion Bikes: Honda Reaches Historic Production Mark
Honda has announced that it reached the milestone of 500 million motorcycles produced globally in 2025, marking a historic journey that began in 1949 with the Dream D-Type.
The company opened its first factory outside Japan in 1963 in Belgium and from then on it never stopped, with new facilities in several places around the world, such as Thailand in 1968, Indonesia in 1971, and Brazil and Italy in 1976.
In addition to this historic milestone, the company announced that it currently has around 40% of the global market share and expects to achieve a 50% share by 2031.
To this end, it is investing in new electric models, will increase the efficiency of combustion engines and will expand the line of models compatible with flex engines (which use gasoline and/or ethanol, in any proportion), very popular in Brazil and India.
Toshihiro Mibe, Director, President and Representative Executive Officer, Honda Motor Co., Ltd. said:
‘For Honda, motorcycle business is our ‘founder’s business’, and it will continue to be the company’s core business. In the motorcycle business, we have built the trust of our customers through our many products and services, which has enabled us to achieve a cumulative production volume of 500 million units. I would like to thank our customers and all stakeholders who were involved in achieving this milestone, from development to production, sales, and service. Honda will continue to take on the challenge of expanding the joy of our customers around the world.’
Honda’s journey to 500 million motorcycles:
The Beginning (1948–1959): Honda was founded in 1948 and launched its first complete motorcycle, the Dream D-Type, in 1949. In 1958, the legendary Super Cub C100 hit the market. By 1959, Honda had already become the world’s largest motorcycle manufacturer.
Global Expansion (1960s–1980s): Honda began producing motorcycles outside Japan in 1963, starting with Belgium. It soon expanded to Thailand, Brazil (1976), the U.S., Nigeria, and more — becoming a truly global brand.
Iconic Models & Innovation (1969–2009): Honda launched legendary bikes like the CB750, Gold Wing, and Africa Twin. It also led in innovation, introducing the first airbag on a production motorcycle (2005) and the first dual-clutch transmission bike (2009).
Production Milestones (1968–2019): Honda hit 10 million units in 1968, 100 million in 1997, and 400 million in 2019. In 2014, the Super Cub became the most produced motorcycle in history.
Electrification & the 500 Million Mark (2022–2025): Honda kicked off its electric era with the EM1e:, introduced E-Clutch tech, and revealed concepts of its first full-size electric models. In 2025, it celebrated a massive milestone: 500 million motorcycles produced globally — and 50 years of the Gold Wing.
photos: Honda