Given the international dateline, Australia always learns about great new stuff much earlier in the day than we do here in "The Great White North."

The new "long and low" 2009 Honda VT400 cruiser is a case in point, as Honda Australia just announced an all-new smaller sibling to the Honda VT750 cruiser, a popular seller in that class in the Canadian market.

The new VT400 is presented by Honda as a scaled down VT750, with all the trappings and bling of a proper cruiser, down to the low seat, slimmed down tank and bullet headlight casing.

OK! We know that this is a VT750, but we think the VT400 looks very much like this - maybe scaled down a few centimeters here and there.

Add the liquid-cooled 398cc V-twin engine with commensurate torque in the low to mid rev range, low weight, agile handling, fuel injection, the Honda Ignition Security System (HISS), and you have a desirable, stylish entry-level machine.

It gets better for the real amateurs, with a wide range of bespoke accessories available from Honda: chrome backrest and rear carrier, leather saddle bags, chrome ornaments for front & rear guards, backrest plate, body cover and windscreen.

In this case, Australia is more than a few hours ahead of us, as well informed source from Honda Canada told us that there are no current plans to import this model in Canada, at least for 2009. Guess I'll just have to fly to Oz to try one for you' all. Looks to me like a nice bike to learn to ride on!


Photo Credit : Honda