Honda plans Pikes Peak effort with a twist
AirFence barriers will be used on some corners at Pikes Peak
Honda will return to the Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb with six cars and 10 motorcycles in different classes.
Along with launching a concerted effort at the world’s most celebrated hillclimb, Honda has also collaborated with the American Motorcyclist Association to introduce the use of an advanced safety barrier at key corners through the fully sealed Pikes Peak course.
The use of AirFence Provided by RoadRacing World Action Fund technology will be used, marking the first time that a competitor has worked with the sanctioning body to boost safety.
AirFence consists of a system of connected air-filled bladders, serving as a soft wall safety barrier to protect motorcycle racers from direct contact with solid objects.
“Honda is proud to have worked with the AMA and event organisers to increase safety for the competitors of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb,” Jeff Conrad, senior vice president and general manager of Honda Division, said.
“Honda has a long and successful history at Pikes Peak.”
The RoadRacing World Action Fund, an organisation dedicated to improving the safety for motorcycle racing, has provided this technology to circuits across North America through an on-going research and fund raising program.
Honda-powered vehicles have taken at least one class victory at the legendary event in each of the last 12 years and have captured 44 wins overall.
Looking to extend that streak, the manufacturer through Honda Performance Development (HPD) and Honda R&D have joined forces to field six vehicles for Honda associates in this year’s race.
In addition, Honda is providing power for 2013 overall runner-up Romain Dumas’ Norma M20 ‘RD Limited’,
Honda associates will run a diverse array of vehicles in the event, ranging from the Fit EV to a first-generation NSX, along with a Honda CBR600RR motorcycle and a Honda TRX450 all-terrain vehicle.
Ten other competitors will compete on Honda motorcycles in the event’s various classes, riding Honda 250, 450, 600 and 1000cc machines.