What better association for a motorcycle brand which, quite literally, has a great track record than a sponsorship with a motor-racing circuit?
That’s the view taken by Damien Smyth, brand manager for Honda Motorcycles, in regard to a newly-formed association with Manfeild..
The brand has raced in to supply four-wheel-drive workhorses for the Feilding motorsport and multi-events facility.
Palmerston North dealer City Honda has just delivered the bikes, including a Big Red MUV.
“The MUV is a side-by-side vehicle that has amazing offroad capability,” says Smyth. “These are becoming very popular due to the seating capacity and load carrying capability.”
“Towing capacity is 680kg so it’s great for a small trailer, and they also have a tray which tips so it’s easy to unload.”
Also provided to Manfeild are a pair of TRX500FPM quad bikes.
“These are an awesome ATV … our most popular model and the only 500cc manual ATV on the market.”
Manfeild Park chief executive Heather Verry says the machines are much-appreciated and will be well-used.
“Manfeild today is much more than a motor-racing circuit; being a multi-events centre now on a very large property means we can and will throw many challenges at this vehicles, which is why we only wanted the best.”
Smyth says Manfeild seems a natural home for Honda.
“Honda has a strong history in motor racing – the race pedigree within the company runs deep,” he says. “We currently sponsor a top team in both motocross and NZ superbikes and are committed to supporting local motorsport events.
“Internationally, of course, Honda has recently won the MotoGP world championship.”
The brand is increasing its visibility at the internationally-renowned facility with enhanced brand signage and extra track days.
“Manfeild is an amazing facility that plays host to a range of other activities from automotive shows to equestrian events and agricultural shows,” Smyth says.
“Many of these events are initiatives for the rural community and we have a strong commitment in this space. We have a diverse customer base and a wide array of products – Manfeild is a great place for us to be.”
