QuestionI saw a 1997 honda goldgwing se, and in the head cover had a made in usa plaque.
Is this an american made engine?
AnswerThanks for the question.
Most likely, the engine was built in Japan, then shipped to Ohio for insertion into the bike. This is common practice for both foreign carmakers and motorcycle makers.
I also know that some engine "sub sets" or "subsystems" get shipped in for FINAL assembly at Ohio, but I think it depends on the bike. This would be "partial" assembly.
The overall picture is that the Honda Goldwing is a Japanese bike that is designed in BOTH America and Japan, using parts from many countries (including the US), and is assembled in The United States by American workers under supervision of Honda of Japan. Got that? It is not purely "Made in the USA" or "Made in Japan". I don't know what the guideline is for putting a "Made in the USA" label on a motorcycle or anything else, I'm sure lot's of lawyers are involved.
Nothing is simple in the world of multi-national corporations. I hope this has been a useful answer and not a cause of more confusion for you. I would contact Honda, and even the Marysville, Ohio plant and ask them as well. They will most likely have a more detailed answer for you.
Check out this site: http://ohio.honda.com/
Thanks for writing.
Bill Roberson
