The Lawnmower King of Leicester City

Forty one years ago, the HR21 was launched in August 1978 and received rave reviews from the industry and its many users for its fantastic performance and reliability. Today, we have over 15 models available, with a world-beating range of engines and features.

Honda UK recently spoke to John Ledwidge, the grounds manager at Leicester City FC and the man behind some of the most famous pitch designs in Premier League football. As the head of a team of groundsmen who cut the pitch at Leicester up to five times a day, he knows a thing or two about lawnmowers.

Honda: What first inspired you to become a groundsman? 

LEDWIDGE: When I was 13 years old I had the dream of being a footballer, like most 13-year-old kids. I just wanted to get onto the pitch where my heroes play so I wrote a letter to the groundsman of Coventry City, got a job working in the summer holidays with him, and fell in love with the job. I was a straight-A student at school but left knowing exactly what I wanted to do, which was to be a groundsman.

How many times do you cut the pitch at Leicester over the week? 

At this time of year we’ll cut the pitch between three and five times a day. But it’s not just the pitch at the stadium; there are seven more pitches at the training facility, so it’s quite a large operation. We spend a lot of money to create consistency of pitch across the training ground and the stadium, because the players need to train on a similar pitch to what they play on at the weekend. It’s really important they have the same standard of pitch.

What do you do when the match is actually on? 

There’s nothing we can do to the pitch, so I either catch up on a bit of work or watch the match. The rest of the ground staff will be watching the game – mostly to see what’s happening with the pitch rather than the football, which is a bit sad!

 

What are the best bits of your job? 

Building the department here from the ground up has been a definite highlight. We’ve gone from six staff to 14 and have implemented a lot of structure. We’re also building a new training ground. But being on the pitch on match day, just before kick-off, is a privileged place to be. It’s as close as you can get to being a player without actually being a player. Being there when they come out of the tunnel, having that experience of being there in the match environment is something that we all look forward to. Everyone loves match days.

Do you use Honda mowers at Leicester City?

Yes, we’ve got a fleet of them. They’re the mower of choice for most Premier League clubs, not necessarily for the day-to-day cutting, but certainly using them to ‘clean up’ the pitch. After every game there will be an army of people using Honda mowers to clear up all the loose debris that’s kicked up during a game. We use the Honda 21-inch mower with the rear rollers. You’ll see them being used at most clubs.

Why do you prefer Honda mowers?

It’s for their efficiency and reliability. They have a well-refined engine that’s simple to work on. We have a head mechanic here and he doesn’t need to be working on them all the time. They’re not breaking down or causing us too many issues, which is important for an operation our size. Having a constant stream of mowers breaking down would set us back a lot in time and money, so that efficiency is very important.

How many Honda mowers do you have?

We have 18 Honda mowers in our fleet, and the mowers that aren’t Honda have Honda engines in them. They’re one of the most efficient petrol engines you can get.

You use pedestrian mowers rather than the ride-ons. Why do you prefer to use ones you walk with?

It’s all about the transfer of weight across the ground. The demand for pitch quality is so high at this level and we find that the finish we get with pedestrian mowers is better than the ride-ons. There’s a lot more weight put on the pitch with a ride-on than with a pedestrian machine, which doesn’t give as smooth a finish.

Have you got any ideas for new pitch designs for this season? 

We’re not allowed. The Premier League have stopped us doing them. They wanted to get more into line with FIFA and UEFA, who are very strict on that kind of thing. It’s a shame.

What’s your own lawn like at home? 

Awful! It’s terrible. We’re on a new estate and the lawns are slapped on whatever’s left after the house is built. I’ll have to dig the whole thing up and start again. It’s definitely not my centrepiece.

Is there a secret to growing a great lawn? 

It’s good horticultural practice – making sure that your lawn is fed and watered well, and at the right times. And make sure it’s cut regularly when it’s growing. It’s simple: grass is a very resilient thing and it’ll reward you if you treat it right.

 

Source: Honda Engine Room

Honda Ireland are gearing up the Irish Motorbike and Scooter Show 2019 on RDS March 1st – 3rd

Here in Honda Ireland excitement levels are high as we get ready to debut our 2019 Motorcycle range to the Irish biking community at the bi-annual Irish Motorbike and Scooter show.

We will be based at Stand D3 in the main hall of the RDS Dublin from Friday March 1st – Sunday March 3rd 2019.

Come visit us to see the line-up which brand new 650 & 500 cc models! These include the naked CB650R, the sports middleweight street-focused CBR650R, and the trio of roadster, sport and adventure bikes the CB500F, CBR500R and CB500X. It’s the first time any of these bikes will be seen on Irish soil!

They will be among 21 Honda bikes on display at the show.

 

 

Other bikes on display:

  • 2019 CRF450L
  • 2019 Super Cub 125
  • Gl1800 Goldwing
  • Monkey 125
  • MSX125
  • CB125R
  • CB300R
  • CMX500 Rebel
  • NC750X
  • XADV750
  • CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports
  • Forza 300
  • SH300
  • PCX125A
  • CB125F
  • CRF250
  • Vision 110
  • CBR1000RR Fireblade SP1

Looking forward to seeing you there!

‘Shorts with Sean’ Episode 2: Spilling the Beans & Win a Leinster Jersey

Tune into Episode 2 of our ‘Shorts with Sean’ mini series. We delve into Sean’s most sensitive teammate, his experiences as a professional Rugby player and more!

Enter our competition to win a brand new 2018/19 Season Adidias Leinster Jersey!

Click here to enter now

Hint: You might want to watch the video before heading off to enter 😉

Terms and Conditions of competition: To enter applicants must give correct answer through competition entry form. Jersey is a Adult size Large and cannot be substituted or changed. No cash alternative is available. Competition closing date is 14th September 2018 at 3pm.

Win the ultimate Lawn and Garden Package worth over €1000!

We recently sat down with our Honda Brand Ambassador Sean O’Brien for a catch up on what has guided him through life, his advice for the younger generations and what keeps him grounded.

Captured in the video was not only ourselves and Sean but also the star of the show – Sean’s very cute dog!

The very relaxed pup was happy chilling with Sean while we chatted, he loved being up on Sean’s Honda TRX500FA6 quad and was an all round trooper, so when we watched the video back it got us thinking ‘what’s the dog thinking!’

We thought we’d let you guys come up with the best caption for what the dog is thinking in this particular clip:

 

Head over to our Facebook page to give us your caption and be in with the chance of winning the ultimate Honda Lawn and Garden package worth €1098.00! This includes the Honda UMK425ELE which is worth €449 and Honda Lawnmower HRG466SKEP worth €649.

Need some inspiration? Check out the full video below:

 

Terms and Conditions: Competition closes on Friday 21st September 2018. Caption must be posted on Honda Ireland’s Facebook page in order to be eligible. Top five captions will be put to the vote on Honda Ireland’s Facebook page week commencing 24th September 2018. Caption with most amount of votes will win prize. No cash substitute available for prize. Prize is only Brushcutter UMK425ELE €449 and Mower HRG466SKEX €649 – Total value €1098.00.

 

The Ulitmate GT Scooter – The Forza 300 has arrived

The ulitmate GT scooter, the Honda Forza 300 has now arrived in Ireland.

As we reported last week, Honda’s Forza 300 scooter is completely reborn in lightweight, compact, sporty form, with an enhanced specification including electrically adjustable screen, full LED lighting and optional 45-litre Smart Key-linked top box. It also gains Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) – a first for a Honda scooter – and smart new instrumentation.

The Forza 300 has a crisp, sporting new look and much tighter, sharper dimensions than the previous design. Its wheelbase and length are reduced, while it’s also narrower, but with a higher seat height for improved visibility. Even with a new larger diameter rear wheel, it is 12kg lighter thanks to a revised chassis and redesigned frame, which boosts acceleration, top speed and fuel efficiency.

Smoothly adjustable, the new electric screen provides maximum wind protection at speed­ or ultimate freedom around town. Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) has been added and can be switched on and off from the left handlebar.

Revised instruments serve up extra information digitally, in support of the analogue dials and all lighting is LED. The Smart Key offers control of the optional 45-litre top box.

Key features:

  • Adjustable electric screen controlled from the left handlebar
  • Revised dash offers a mix of analogue and digital information
  • Room for two full-face helmets under the seat
  • Full LED lighting
  • Sharp new lines create a sportier, ‘svelte’ new look
  • Completely new tubular steel frame, 12kg lighter wet weight
  • Shorter in wheelbase with sharper steering geometry
  • Much more compact dimensions paired with raised seat height
  • Both wheels cast aluminium, the rear now 14-inch diameter
  • Faster acceleration, higher top speed and improved fuel efficiency
  • Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) standard equipment
  • Can be turned ON-OFF from a switch on the left handlebar

Priced at €6300.00, you can purchase a Forza 300 from your local Honda Motorcycle Dealership now!

 

 

2018 Honda Forza soon to arrive in Ireland

Honda’s Forza 300 scooter is completely reborn in lightweight, compact, sporty form, with an enhanced specification including electrically adjustable screen, full LED lighting and optional 45-litre Smart Key-linked top box. It also gains Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) – a first for a Honda scooter – and smart new instrumentation.

The Forza 300 has a crisp, sporting new look and much tighter, sharper dimensions than the previous design. Its wheelbase and length are reduced, while it’s also narrower, but with a higher seat height for improved visibility. Even with a new larger diameter rear wheel, it is 12kg lighter thanks to a revised chassis and redesigned frame, which boosts acceleration, top speed and fuel efficiency.

Smoothly adjustable, the new electric screen provides maximum wind protection at speed­ or ultimate freedom around town. Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) has been added and can be switched on and off from the left handlebar.

Revised instruments serve up extra information digitally, in support of the analogue dials and all lighting is LED. The Smart Key offers control of the optional 45-litre top box.

Key features:

  • Adjustable electric screen controlled from the left handlebar
  • Revised dash offers a mix of analogue and digital information
  • Room for two full-face helmets under the seat
  • Full LED lighting
  • Sharp new lines create a sportier, ‘svelte’ new look
  • Completely new tubular steel frame, 12kg lighter wet weight
  • Shorter in wheelbase with sharper steering geometry
  • Much more compact dimensions paired with raised seat height
  • Both wheels cast aluminium, the rear now 14-inch diameter
  • Faster acceleration, higher top speed and improved fuel efficiency
  • Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) standard equipment
  • Can be turned ON-OFF from a switch on the left handlebar

We are expecting the Forza 300 to land here in Ireland in August – September 2018, you can get yours at your local Honda Motorcycle Dealership once landed.

 

 

 

The all new Super Cub 125

Honda has unveiled the all new Super Cub 125, the legendary machine dates back to 1958, when the original was designed by Soichiro Honda and his long-time business partner Takeo Fujisawa, its stated aim was straightforward: ‘to provide the joy of playing a useful part in people’s lives’.

The Super Cub C125 marks a new page in the unique story of a vehicle with such universal appeal that it has been sold in over 160 countries, and with such an instantly-recognisable look that it was the first vehicle in Japan to be granted a 3 dimensional trademark.

While the look does not deviate from the classic template, an increase in power and torque thanks to its 125cc engine helps keep the Super Cub ahead of city traffic; its automatic centrifugal clutch has also been upgraded to match the output boost and give ultra-smooth, quiet gear changes.

The steel frame too, has been optimised with a tuned rigidity balance that maintains the Super Cub’s famously welcoming usability. Longer travel front and rear suspension, 17-inch cast aluminium wheels and disc front brake deliver a supple, confident ride with strong stopping power. Full LED lighting brings a modern touch, the Smart Key day-to-day convenience.

Pearlescent paint highlights the evocative design of the Super Cub C125, which will be available in the following options:

  • Pearl Niltava Blue
  • Pearl Nebula Red

Features;

  • A subtle evolution of the classic clean and timeless Super Cub style, plus full LED lighting
  • Easy to use, with comfortable riding position and smooth, stable handling
  • Longer travel suspension, 17-inch front/rear wheels and front disc brake; single channel ABS
  • Honda Smart Key with ‘answer-back’ function for day-to-day convenience

 

The Honda Super Cub is expected to arrive in Ireland in Autumn 2018.

You can register your interest with any Irish Honda Motorcycle Dealership now!

Guide to Honda Motorcycle Technology

New to motorcycling? Or been riding bikes for years but just never knew what some of those abbreviations we use in our Motorcycle brochure means?

Well look no further & check our ultimate guide to Honda Motorcycling Technology:

DCT

Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) is an automated clutch and shift operation system that retains the direct acceleration feel of a manual transmission with the ease of use of an automatic. It basically allows you to forget about the gear changes and concentrate on steering, turning, accelerating and enjoying your trip.

ABS

Anti-Locking Braking System reduces braking pressure by monitoring the wheel speed, preventing the wheels from locking up.

HESD

The Honda Electronic Steering Dampener minimises sudden steering changes at high speeds for enhanced riding ease and comfort.

PFI

Programmed Fuel Injection is a map-type computerised system that maintains strong power and responsive performance in
all conditions.

HSTC

If the Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) system senses an imminent loss of rear wheel traction it reduces torque to allow the tyre to grip.

CBS

The Combined Brake System actuates both front and rear brakes when the rear brake pedal (or lever) is engaged, for a smooth and confident balance of braking control.

ISS

The Idle Stop System automatically stops the engine running after three seconds at idle and restarts it instantly with a twist of the throttle, helping to reduce emissions and fuel consumption.

HISS

The Honda Ignition Security system only allows the bike to be started by its original encoded keys to effectively protect against theft.

LED

LED lights featured on Honda are a brighter and more energy efficient than traditional bulbs, with no time delay and a longer life.

V-Matic 

V-Matic Transmission is a belt-converter transmission with advanced three-stage operation provides seamless shifting throughout a wide range of speeds delivered with twist-and-go ease.

Öhlins 

Öhlins Electronic Control Suspension is a Öhlins Objective Based Tuning Interface adjusts both the compression and rebound damping force of the front fork and rear shock.

Big Piston Fork

Offers more sensitive damping than a conventional fork, improving control in a wide range of riding situations.

Honda Evolutional Catalysing System 

Oxygen-sensing system maintains an optimal air/fuel mixture for the most effective catalytic reduction of exhaust emissions.

Smart Key

This innovative technology improves both convenience and security. As long as your key is in your pocket or bag, you can release the seat and start the engine. with the press of a button

Euro 4

Complies with latest EURO 4 emissions regulations.

Honda Multi-Action System 

Cartridge-type front fork and rear damper design ensures a confident balance of compliant damping and precise handling.

G Mode

Triggered by a switch on the instrument panel, G Mode improves traction and machine control by reducing clutch slip during gear changes. Only available on the X-ADV & Africa Twin in 2018 range.

S Mode

Available on Automatic (DCT) bikes, S- for Sport is a more relaxed driving style.

D Mode

Available on Automatic (DCT) bikes, D – for Drive is for relaxed city and motorway driving.

Pro-link rear Suspension

Monoshock rear suspension utilises a triangular linkage system to progressively increase damping force through range of rear swingarm movement.

Showa 

Showa Dual Bending Valve forks improve ride comfort and handling by delivering proportional rebound damping with firmer compression damping.

And that’s a wrap! As you can see our Honda Motorcycles are dripping with the latest technology. If you want to get your hands on any of our Honda Motorcycles you can visit one of our Honda Authorised Motorcycle Dealerships.

We celebrate, you save! Save €100 on the Honda IZY

2018 is a big year! We are celebrating 40 years of the Honda lawnmower! Since 1978 we’ve been manufacturing the best name on grass.

The HR21, Honda’s first walk-behind lawn mower, was launched in August 1978 in overseas markets including the U.S. The high-quality lawn mower equipped with a vertical engine, which ensured quiet operation and significantly easier starting, received rave reviews for its outstanding performance, safety and durability. Sales were strong from the start, growing steadily to the point that in 1985, when sister models were introduced,

Today, in 2018 the Honda lawnmower range in Ireland has over 16 models available, with a wide range deck sizes, engine power and features. The range boasts reliable performance, low engine noise, easy starts and excellent after-sales service.

To celebrate this momentous year in the Honda Lawnmower range we’re giving you €100 off the Honda IZY range!

The Honda HRG536VYE was €899, and is now €799! 

The Honda HRG536VLE was €999, and is now €899!

Discounts are available until August 31st 2018, and can be availed of in your local Honda Lawn and Garden Dealership.

Read more on the evolution on the Honda Lawnmower