Initially a racer, especially in speed record attempts, before retiring after his brother was injured and Soichiro picked up an eye injury. Went on to found the hugely successful company which bears his name. He remained president of the company until retirement and stayed as a consultant and adviser until his death from liver failure. Soichiro's father ran a bicycle repair shop which Soichiro helped with before progressing to become a car mechanic, running his own garage and repair business. Honda's business took off after the Second World War building motorcycles, whereas before the War, he was initially working with Toyota to produce piston rings for them.

Biography last updated 23 Jul 2016