Honda Dn 01 Problems

The Honda DN-01, a motorcycle that dared to be different, captivated imaginations with its futuristic styling and innovative HFT (Human-Friendly Transmission). However, beneath the sleek exterior lurked some issues that contributed to its relatively short production run and somewhat niche status. Understanding these problems is crucial for current owners, potential buyers, or anyone simply fascinated by this unique machine.

What Exactly Is The DN-01, Anyway?

Before diving into the problems, let's recap what made the DN-01 so special (and why it ultimately didn't resonate with the broader motorcycling public). Released in 2008, the DN-01, short for "Discovery New," was Honda's attempt to bridge the gap between motorcycles and scooters. It featured a comfortable, feet-forward riding position, a 680cc V-twin engine, and, most notably, Honda's HFT – a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that offered fully automatic or six-speed manual shifting options. It was designed for ease of use and a relaxed riding experience, appealing to riders who might be intimidated by traditional motorcycles. The bike was supposed to be revolutionary, but unfortunately, it had a few kinks to iron out.

The Elephant in the Room: The HFT Transmission

The HFT transmission, while innovative, was also the source of many of the DN-01's woes. It wasn't inherently bad, but it didn't deliver the performance or feel that many motorcyclists expected.

Power Loss: The HFT system, being hydraulically driven, inherently absorbed some of the engine's power. This resulted in slower acceleration and a less engaging riding experience compared to motorcycles with similar engine sizes and traditional transmissions. Many riders felt the bike was underpowered for its weight.
"Rubber Band" Effect: Like many CVTs, the HFT exhibited a "rubber band" effect, where the engine revved up quickly, but the bike's acceleration didn't immediately match. This sensation could be disconcerting and made precise throttle control challenging, especially in situations requiring quick bursts of speed.
Complexity and Maintenance: The HFT was a complex system with numerous hydraulic components. This complexity increased the potential for failures and made maintenance more challenging and expensive compared to traditional transmissions. Finding qualified mechanics familiar with the HFT system could also be difficult.
Limited Customization: Unlike traditional transmissions, the HFT offered limited opportunities for customization or performance tuning. Riders couldn't easily adjust gear ratios or modify the transmission's behavior to suit their preferences.
Heat Build-up: The HFT system generated significant heat, especially in hot weather or during prolonged periods of high-speed riding. This heat could potentially affect the performance and longevity of the transmission components.

Handling and Weight: A Delicate Balance (or Lack Thereof)

The DN-01's handling characteristics were another point of contention among riders. The bike's long wheelbase and low center of gravity contributed to stability at highway speeds, but they also made it feel cumbersome and less agile in tighter corners.

Heavy Handling: The DN-01 was a heavy motorcycle, weighing in at around 595 lbs (270 kg). This weight, combined with the long wheelbase, made it feel less nimble and responsive compared to lighter, more sporty motorcycles.
Limited Ground Clearance: The DN-01's low-slung design resulted in limited ground clearance, which could be problematic when cornering aggressively or navigating uneven road surfaces. Scraping the footpegs or other components was a common complaint.
Suspension Shortcomings: The DN-01's suspension, while adequate for cruising, wasn't particularly sophisticated or adjustable. This contributed to a less-than-ideal ride quality, especially on bumpy roads or when carrying a passenger.

Reliability Concerns: Gremlins in the Machine

While the DN-01 was generally considered a reliable motorcycle, some owners reported specific issues that are worth noting.

HFT Pump Failures: The hydraulic pump that powered the HFT system was a known weak point. Failures could result in a loss of transmission function and require expensive repairs.
Sensor Issues: Various sensors throughout the bike, particularly those related to the HFT system, could malfunction, leading to erratic shifting or other performance problems.
Electrical Problems: Some owners reported electrical issues, such as battery drain or problems with the lighting system.
Availability of Parts: Because the DN-01 was produced for a relatively short time and in limited numbers, finding replacement parts could be challenging and expensive.

Ergonomics: Love It or Hate It

The DN-01's feet-forward riding position was a key design element, but it wasn't universally appreciated.

Limited Legroom: Taller riders often found the legroom to be cramped, leading to discomfort on longer rides.
Awkward Foot Position: The feet-forward position placed the rider's feet in a less-than-ideal location for controlling the bike, particularly when braking or shifting gears (in manual mode).
Lack of Wind Protection: The DN-01's minimalist fairing provided limited wind protection, making it less comfortable for long-distance touring.

The Price Tag: A Bitter Pill to Swallow

The DN-01 was an expensive motorcycle when it was new, and its high price tag undoubtedly contributed to its limited sales.

Premium Pricing: The DN-01's advanced technology and unique design commanded a premium price, putting it out of reach for many potential buyers.
Poor Value Proposition: Many riders felt that the DN-01 didn't offer enough performance or practicality to justify its high price tag.

The Aftermarket: A Desert Landscape

The DN-01's limited popularity meant that the aftermarket support for the bike was relatively sparse.

Limited Accessories: Finding aftermarket accessories, such as luggage racks, windscreens, or performance parts, could be difficult.
Lack of Customization Options: The DN-01's unique design and complex electronics made it challenging to customize or modify.

Why Did the DN-01 Fail? A Perfect Storm

The DN-01's failure wasn't due to any single flaw, but rather a combination of factors:

Uncertain Identity: The DN-01 tried to be too many things at once – a motorcycle, a scooter, a cruiser – and ultimately failed to fully satisfy any of those categories.
Compromised Performance: The HFT transmission, while innovative, compromised the bike's performance and riding experience.
High Price and Limited Value: The DN-01 was too expensive for what it offered.
Lack of Market Demand: Ultimately, there simply wasn't enough demand for a motorcycle that prioritized ease of use over performance and excitement.

What to Look Out For If You're Considering Buying One

Despite its flaws, the DN-01 still has its appeal. If you're considering buying one, here are some things to keep in mind:

HFT Condition: Thoroughly inspect the HFT system for any signs of leaks, unusual noises, or erratic shifting. Have a qualified mechanic inspect it if possible. This is the most critical area to assess.
Service History: Check for a complete service history to ensure that the bike has been properly maintained.
Overall Condition: Assess the bike's overall condition, looking for signs of neglect or abuse.
Test Ride: Take the bike for a thorough test ride to evaluate its handling, performance, and comfort.
Parts Availability: Research the availability and cost of replacement parts before making a purchase.
Negotiate the Price: Given the DN-01's limited popularity and potential maintenance costs, be prepared to negotiate the price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the DN-01 reliable? The DN-01 is generally reliable, but the HFT transmission can be a potential source of problems. Regular maintenance is crucial.
How much does it cost to maintain a DN-01? Maintenance costs can be higher than for a traditional motorcycle due to the complexity of the HFT system. Finding qualified mechanics can also be challenging.
Can I upgrade the DN-01's performance? Performance upgrades are limited due to the design of the HFT transmission and the bike's overall architecture.
Are parts readily available for the DN-01? Parts availability can be a challenge, so it's important to research this before buying. Online resources and specialist motorcycle shops are your best bet.
Is the DN-01 a good beginner bike? While the automatic transmission might seem appealing to beginners, the bike's weight and handling characteristics make it less ideal for novice riders.

The DN-01: A Bold Experiment, a Mixed Bag

The Honda DN-01 was undoubtedly a bold experiment, a motorcycle that pushed the boundaries of design and technology. While it ultimately failed to achieve mainstream success, it remains a fascinating example of Honda's innovative spirit. Understanding its problems is essential for anyone considering owning or simply studying this intriguing machine.