Honda also generally includes Model Year codes (see below) when referring to particular motorcycle models by Model Name. Many of Honda's early motorcycle Model Names began with 'CB', which has been theorised to refer to 'City Bike', and it is almost obvious that 'VF' refers to 'Vee Four', but the fact is that Honda has generally never conistently explained the nomenclature it uses for its motorcycles. Model Names usually contain some reference to engine displacement, but not always (and not always an accurate one, e.g., the VFR800Fi has always had a 781cc engine). The Model Name is also known as the 'Model Designation' it is the official Honda name for a particular model.

On this page (and throughout ), the terms 'Model Name', 'Model Number', 'Model Year' and 'Product Code' (or 'PCN') are used as defined below. Note that certain sources (e.g., American Honda Motor Co., Inc.) are apparently not very concerned with Honda practices outside of their particular region, so information attributable to them may relate only to their own practices, and not necessarily to those of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. This page contains as much reliable information as was known and publicly available as of the date this page was written. There is clearly a rationale behind each official designation, although absent direct input from Honda, it is impossible to achieve an absolutely complete understanding. It is often very useful, in referring to specific Honda motorcycle models and parts, to understand the various systems and conventions Honda has historically used to refer to such things. Honda Motorcycle Model Names, Model Numbers, Model Years and Product Codes

Honda motorcycle serial numbers