The Honda Elite’s unique style had been a part of Honda’s model line for more than 20 years by the time it was discontinued. Though the style has changed, the name is back with the new Elite 110. Known as the “Lead” in the UK, Honda’s new entry for the US commuter market packages smooth performance and unparalleled quality, though in a somewhat generic wrapping.
Powered by an 108cc fuel injected and liquid cooled single cylinder, the Elite has incredibly smooth power delivery and the throttle response is much quicker than similar carbureted competitors. Is it a rocket ship off the line? No. But it accelerates steadily from a stop, easily up past 50 mph before we start to see the limitations of gearing. Braking and handling are, well, Honda. The front disk brake works as expected, and when using the rear linked brake system the Elite decelerates quickly, providing safe stopping distances. The suspension
and wheel/tire combo perform well and during our test, absorbed the typical cracks and potholes very well at speed. The handling provides that "scooter feel” of being quick and nimble around town, yet steady when cruising at 45+mph.
Under seat storage is easily twice that of any comparable scooter on the road, and easily fits two helmets. That’s right! It holds a full-face and 3/4 helmet with room for gloves or other small items to spare. This space is achieved by moving the fuel tank under the floor board, thus creating more storage and lowering the scooters center of gravity. An additional glove box has room for a tool kit, cell phone and any other trinkets you may carry with you. For even more storage, the factory rear rack can easily accommodate any common top box, so bust out that GIVI and get to shopping.
Equally important in making this the choice for a commuting scooterist, are the details of the Elite’s ergonomics. Seat height is low at 29 inches and feels even lower due to the shape of the seat itself. At 5’7” I not only have both feet flat on the ground, but have a slight bend in the knee as well. Large flip-out passenger pegs and a large passenger pillion make for a comfortable two-up experience. The space between the rider and leg shield should allow for riders upwards of 6 feet tall to ride comfortably, even in tight, slow speed turns.
With the combination of storage, fuel injection and liquid cooling, all backed by the Honda name, the new Elite 110 can be considered a bargain with its $2,999 MSRP. So the question remains, is the new Elite the best commuting scooter option in the US? With carbureted air cooled competitors offering half the storage in the same price range and quality ranging from poor to average, we think the Elite is on track to regain its old glory as America’s choice in scooter commuting.
Similar in shape and style to some of the more popular brands such as Chrome and Timbuk2, this bag is feature-packed at a fraction of the price. Made of ballistic weave nylon, this stylish messenger bag from ISS is also accented with Scotchlite reflective material for visibility.
