2008 Honda Metropolitan Features & Benefits

With the Metropolitan, riders looking for economical transportation and easy-to-operate features can also enjoy a fun and fashionable ride that comes in a variety of styles and colors.

Features & Benefits

New for 2008

  • New Ocean, Monza and Gothic colors join Ruby. Monza and Gothic colors include chrome mirrors, a chrome muffler cover, 3-D chrome emblems, black wheels, black belt cover, and two-tone custom seat.

Unique features

  • Efficient four-stroke engine uses substantially less fuel and significantly reduces exhaust emissions over a comparable two-stroke engine.
  • Automatic Honda V-Matic transmission allows speeds up to 40 mph.
  • Combined Braking System (CBS) provides excellent stopping power (see Technology Section).
  • Lightweight and sturdy aluminum chassis contributes to the Metropolitan's maneuverability and excellent fuel economy.
  • Lockable underseat compartment provides nearly 22 liters of storage capacity.
  • Lockable centerstand deters unauthorized use.

Engine/Drivetrain

  • Lightweight 49cc four-stroke OHC liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine provides ample power for in-town riding.
  • Fuel-sipping constant-velocity (CV) carburetor with automatic choke.
  • Maintenance-free solid-state CD ignition system.
  • Starter system utilizes the engine's brushless alternator (ACG) for starting, eliminating the need for a separate starter motor. This simple design requires no maintenance and further reduces overall weight for even better fuel economy.
  • Solid-state ECU provides control for ignition timing, alternator regulator, ACG/starter, electric fuel pump and automatic choke.
  • Lightweight, maintenance-free, magnetically driven water pump eliminates the need for mechanical seals.
  • Compact engine-mounted radiator has aluminum fins for optimal cooling in all riding conditions.
  • Electromagnetic fuel pump is located in the fuel tank under the Metropolitan's floor and contributes to the excellent storage space under the seat.
  • Automatic cam-chain tensioner requires virtually no maintenance.
  • Ultra-quiet exhaust system.
  • Automatic Honda V-Matic belt-drive transmission provides spirited acceleration and requires virtually no maintenance.

Chassis/Suspension

  • Two-piece, die-cast--aluminum chassis provides an optimum balance of light weight and rigidity for excellent handling.
  • Twin-downtube fork provides 1.9 inches of plush travel for a well-controlled ride.
  • Single-side aluminum swingarm with single-shock rear suspension has 2.6 inches of travel for a compliant, comfortable ride.
  • Front and rear drum brakes offer predictable, powerful stopping power.
  • The Metropolitan's CBS brakes provide added control when slowing or stopping. (see Technology Section).
  • High-grip, long-lasting tires.

Additional Features

  • Well-padded seat boasts a low 28.3-inch seat height for added confidence at stops.
  • Underseat storage compartment with 22-liter capacity holds groceries or even a full-face helmet.
  • Instrumentation includes analog speedometer, odometer, analog fuel gauge and indicator lights for coolant temperature and low/high beams.
  • Audible turn-signal indicator.
  • Parking brake.
  • Key-operated ignition lock has an integrated trunk-release switch. By pushing in the key, the rider can easily unlock the spacious storage compartment under the main seat.
  • Centerstand locking lever located inside the underseat storage compartment discourages unauthorized use.
  • Convenient rear hand grip.
  • Helmet holder locks helmet in place under the seat.
  • Shopping-bag holder.
  • Backup kickstarter.
  • Twin-filament headlight with 35-watt low/high beam provides ample nighttime illumination.
  • Maintenance-free battery.
  • Fuel-cap design allows easy removal.
    - Transferable one-year, unlimited-mileage limited warranty; extended coverage available with a Honda Protection Plan.
  • Purchase of a new, previously unregistered Honda USA-certified unit by an individual retail user in the United States qualifies the owner for a one-year complimentary membership in the Honda Rider's Club of America® (HRCA®). Visit www.hrca.honda.com for details.

Available Honda Genuine Accessories

  • Windscreen.
  • Rear Carrier.
  • Rear Trunk.
  • Front Inner Basket.