Get ready to rev your engines! Sanrio and Honda are joining forces to launch the "SMILE RIDER PROJECT" today (June 3). This epic collaboration aims to spread the love for motorcycle culture, the thrill of motorsports, and crucial traffic safety awareness to fans of all ages.
And as part of the project, they're bringing some serious cuteness to the track! Special Sanrio character-themed race bikes will debut at the legendary "Suzuka 8 Hours" endurance race, running from July 3 to July 5, 2026.
Honda and Sanrio have a history of teaming up, having previously released motorcycles and merchandise featuring beloved Sanrio characters. This new project takes their partnership to the next level with a core mission: "bringing smiles to both kids and adults."
Honda will bring its expertise in motorcycles and racing to the table, while Sanrio will leverage its iconic characters to draw even more people into the world of two-wheeled culture and motorsports. Plus, the project will also roll out traffic safety education programs specifically for elementary school students.
The biggest buzz? A Kuromi-themed race bike is set to tackle the Suzuka 8 Hours! It will compete in the "2026 FIM Endurance World Championship Coca-Cola Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Road Race (47th Edition)" on July 5, 2026.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of Honda's Kumamoto Factory, a major hub for motorcycle production in Japan. Since the CBR1000RR-R FIREBLADE race bike was developed and produced right there, the "Honda Ryokuyokai Kumamoto Racing" team, made up of Kumamoto Factory employees, will be supporting this exciting project.
The race bike will sport a special Kuromi livery, but that's not all! Get ready for a whole lineup of limited-edition designs, including Hello Kitty-themed helmets, Pompompurin-themed helmets, custom racing suits, and even team staff apparel.
This project aims to open up the thrilling world of motorcycles and motorsports to those who might not have experienced it before, using Sanrio characters as a fun entry point. Imagine Kuromi, Hello Kitty, Pompompurin, and other fan favorites hitting the Suzuka Circuit alongside Honda race bikes, adding a unique and adorable splash of color to the track!
