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Hot slot for Honda in Bond movie

LONDON, England - Honda UK has grabbed one of the best advertising slots in the world - a product in a James Bond movie, this one 'Skyfall' due for release in October, 2012

Honda’s CRF250R motorcycle is the machine of choice for the 007 film’s action vehicles and stunt crew teams, modified for the opening sequence of the 23rd James Bond film which was shot in Istanbul and Adana in Turkey early ih 2012.

The bike was unveiled at the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu, England.

EXTENSIVE MODIFICATION

A total of 20 CRF250R machines was provided for adapation and "dressing" as two mid-European style motorbikes: one as a Turkish police bike that henchman Patrice (Ola Rapace) seizes after a policeman crashes, the second a Turkish merchant's bike that James Bond (Daniel Craig) uses to pursue Patrice through the streets.

Each underwent extensive modification by Chris Corbould’s award-winning special effects team.

Two CRF450R units were also used as HD camera filming machines, as only a motorcycle could enable the camera crew to keep up with the chase scene and follow the various stunts.

Stunt co-ordinator for 'Skyfall', Gary Powell, commented: "We needed a highly versatile and quality off-road motorbike that could be easily modified, without compromising performance or safety, for the opening sequence of 'Skyfall'. Honda’s CRF's are probably the best off-roaders out there so it’s great that we’ve been able to partner with Honda as the bikes, while heavily modified, were superb to work with."

'DOING THINGS DIFFERENTLY'

Honda UK's Fiona Cole said, “We’re delighted to be a partner for 'Skyfall' and looking forward to seeing our Honda CRF's in action in the film. We'll be rolling out some great associated activities from October, when the film is released.

"We like to try to do things differently at Honda, including finding innovative, yet relevant, ways to showcase our diverse products whilst really engaging with our customers. It’s great not only to have Honda machines chosen for Bond but also to be working with such a long-standing film franchise.”

The Skyfall ‘Police’ and ‘Street Merchant’ bikes, alongside the unmodified and original Honda CRF250R, were unveiled on July 17 at the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu, which is hosting a 'Bond in Action' exhibition until December 31 2012. The exhibition, the largest of its kind, celebrates 50 years of James Bond films and 50 of the best-remembered and most iconic Bond vehicles.

To see the versatile Honda CRF250Rs in action on screen and to enjoy the latest Bond adventure, head to see Skyfall in cinemas from 26 October.


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