2000 Honda FJS 600 Silver Wing

The European appetite for large-capacity scooters has been increasing since Suzuki's AN400 Burgman first appeared in 1999. Honda's Silver Wing is currently the biggest capacity scooter available, knocking Yamaha's 500cc T-Max off the top of the list. It uses a parallel-twin engine with four-valve heads and fuel-injection. Driving through a variable-belt automatic transmission, the liquid-cooled motor provides strong, usable power, managing 179km/h (112mph) on the speedometer. An advanced CBS linked braking system combines braking effort from front and rear levers for safer stopping. Conventional front forks and a twin-shock rear suspension system give handling that's closer to a conventional motorcycle.

The large and powerful Silver Wing expands the ‘scooter’ concept to breathtaking dimensions. Spacious and impressive in every way, the Silver Wing flies over roads and motorways with majestic ease. Its breathtaking surge of acceleration is provided by a high-performance fuel-injected DOHC parallel-twin engine that delivers an eye-opening rush of power with each effortless twist of its throttle.

With sleek, aerodynamic styling and exceptional wind protection and riding comfort, the Silver Wing also makes quite a capable touring machine, if the urge comes (and it surely will) to extend your riding enjoyment. Its carrying capacity is also top-of-the-line, with a cavernous compartment secreted away under its seat that can hold more than you ever thought you could carry on a scooter.

The Silver Wing’s deluxe ABS version also gives you the superb braking performance of Honda’s advanced Antilock Brake System, which provides confident braking control over virtually all the road and riding conditions you may encounter, and the most satisfying balance of performance and comfort to be found in any scooter on the road today.

If you don’t reckon scooters are your thing, the Honda FJS600 Silver Wing could come as a bit of a shock. Loads of power, excellent performance and handling, great brakes… Not only is it competent, it’s versatile and huge fun, too. The price is a bit steep but the Honda FJS600 Silver Wing is a great motorcycle that can certainly raise a dyed-in-the-wool biker’s eyebrow…

Engine

With a fuel injected, 582cc parallel twin knocking out nearly 50bhp, we could easily be talking 'proper' motorcycle here. But the Honda FJS600 Silver Wing offers a powerful, smooth alternative with plenty of poke for town riding but also, surprisingly, loads of welly for long motorway treks too. The fuel injection’s slick and delivery’s seamless but fuel economy can suffer if you really cane a Honda FJS600 Silver Wing.

Ride and Handling

The Honda FJS600 Silver Wing is a heavy motorcycle but it’s nimble enough in town. Hit top speeds on the motorway and it’ll weave a little, though: unnerving but not treacherous. As for twisties: the Honda FJS600 Silver Wing is huge fun, offering great grip, top (linked) brakes and remarkable lean angles. Lots of pillion space, too.

Equipment

The Honda FJS600 Silver Wing has a beautiful, modern dash houses analogue rev counter and speedo, then there’s a digital bit with fuel gauge, clock and other gizmos. The seat’s vast and plush, there’s loads of leg room and the screen/fairing works a treat. The Honda FJS600 Silver Wing also has two glove compartments and a cavernous section under the seat mean loads of storage space. Aftermarket extras abound.