Honda factory closure extended
Kumamoto motorcycle plant will remain shut at least another week
HONDA'S flagship Kumamoto factory – where Fireblades, VFR1200Fs, Goldwings and NC750Xs are made – will remain closed until at least next Thursday as the firm repairs earthquake damage.
Following the two large tremors that hit the area last Thursday and Saturday, Honda closed the Kumamoto plant to inspect it for damage. It was initially hoped it would reopen tomorrow (Friday April 21).
The largest of Honda’s Japanese factories, the bikes built there are mainly large-capacity models for export to developed markets. Around 250,000 machines are built at the Kumamoto plant each year.
Honda’s statement today said: 'Honda has decided to extend the halting of production operations at its Kumamoto Factory (Ozu-machi, Kikuchi-gun, Kumamoto Prefecture) due to The 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake (from its previously announced date of April 22) until April 28, in view of the extent of facility damage.
'Production plans after April 28 will be determined according to progress in repairing the factory and component supply.
'Regarding other production facilities, Yachiyo Industry Co., Ltd., our subsidiary company producing mini-vehicles for Honda, will be resuming limited production from April 22. Other production facilities plan to operate normally.
'Gathering all strength of Honda, we are taking every step possible to resume operation at the affected factory as soon as possible.'
