When we first heard about Honda's event, we expected the Japanese manufacturer to finally pull the wraps off the much-awaited ADV160 maxi-scooter and perhaps showcase a few CBU motorcycles. Little did we expect Honda to go on a product offensive and unveil as many as 10 new motorcycles and scooters, all slated to be manufactured in India. The expansive line-up spans almost every major segment, including cruisers, adventure tourers, retro motorcycles, a maxi-scooter and even an electric scooter, signalling Honda's intent to significantly strengthen its presence in the Indian two-wheeler market. Here's everything you need to know about Honda's ambitious new line-up.
Ever since the Yamaha Aerox arrived in India, the maxi-scooter segment has steadily gained popularity, proving that scooters can be much more than just practical city commuters. They can be exciting to ride as well. The Hero Xoom 160 further strengthened this segment, and with demand for sporty maxi-scooters on the rise, Honda is now preparing to bring the ADV 160 to India. So, here's everything you need to know about Honda's upcoming adventure-styled maxi-scooter.
The Honda ADV 160 gets that unmistakable maxi-scooter styling with a central spine, a tall windscreen, and a chunky exhaust that gives it a rugged look. It rides on a 14-inch front wheel and a 13-inch rear wheel. Another highlight is its first in the segment dual-disc brake setup, although it misses out on dual-channel ABS. Powering the ADV 160 is a 157cc liquid-cooled engine that produces 16bhp and 15Nm of torque, making it the most powerful scooter in its class. It is also compatible with E85 fuel blends, making it more future-ready.The scooter comes with an 8.1-litre fuel tank, which should reduce the number of fuel stops on longer rides. It also offers a generous 27-litre under-seat storage compartment, providing enough space for your groceries or everyday essentials.On the features front, the ADV 160 gets a 5-inch TFT display with Honda RoadSync connectivity, enabling turn-by-turn navigation and smartphone integration. It also comes equipped with Honda Selectable Torque Control for added confidence on slippery surfaces.
If Honda gets the pricing right, the ADV 160 has all the ingredients to become an instant hit, offering better performance, features, and practicality than its rivals.
The adventure touring and enduro segment is growing rapidly in India, with riders realising that these motorcycles are not just built for weekend off-road adventures but also make excellent companions for city commutes and long highway tours. Seeing this growing demand, Honda is looking to grab a share of the market with its dual-purpose duo, both of which are expected to be launched in India soon. This duo is powered by a 293.5cc air/oil-cooled, single-cylinder engine borrowed from the CB300F, producing 24.5bhp at 7,500rpm and 25.9Nm at 5,500rpm. The engine is paired with a six-speed gearbox. It gets disc brakes at both ends with switchable dual-channel ABS, Showa telescopic forks up front, and a Pro-Link monoshock at the rear. Other highlights include a 5-inch TFT display with Honda RoadSync connectivity.
While Honda is yet to reveal the complete specifications, these are the details we spotted on the display bikes. Once launched, they will rival the TVS Apache RTX 300, Hero Xpulse 210, KTM 250 Duke, and Kawasaki KLX 230.
The Honda Rebel series was undoubtedly one of the biggest highlights of the launch event, drawing plenty of attention for its distinctive styling and well-rounded package. Even better, the Rebel range will now be manufactured in India, which is expected to make it more affordable than the CBU Rebel 500. Honda is also introducing a smaller 300cc Rebel, giving buyers another option. Here's everything you need to know about the Rebel lineup. The Rebel duo gets typical cruiser type design language with very low seat height and front set footpegs for that added comfort. Powering the Rebel 500 is a 471cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine which produces 45.5bhp at 8500rpm and 43.3Nm torque at 6000rpm. This engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox with an E-Clutch which ensures clutchless gear operation from the get-go. Suspension duties are handled by telescopic forks at the front and Showa dual shock absorbers at the rear. Both the Rebel 300 and the Rebel 500 get a 16-inch wheel at the front and a 16-inch wheel at the rear. Powering the Rebel 300 is a 286cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine which produces 27bhp and 26.6Nm of torque and is paired with a 6-speed gearbox with an E-Clutch. The Rebel Duo also gets a TFT display with Honda RoadSync app connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation.
The Rebel Duo will be offered in two variants - standard and E-Clutch. These bikes will be made here in India. Other specifications and pricing will be revealed closer to their market launch this year.
Ever since Royal Enfield exited the 500cc single-cylinder segment, this corner of the market has remained largely dormant. It's a niche category, catering to a select group of riders who appreciate the unique character of a large-capacity thumper - something that's very much an acquired taste. With the Honda CB500 looking to reignite interest in this segment, let's begin by taking a closer look at its heart: the engine. The Honda CB500 is powered by a 501cc air/oil-cooled, single-cylinder engine which produces 26.8bhp and 43.3Nm torque. This engine is paired to a 5-speed gearbox with slip and assist clutch. The Honda CB500 adopts ‘retro sporty’ design philosophy. It gets a sculpted fuel-tank, wide handlebar and clean bodywork which gives it a strong road presence. It gets all LED lighting, an analogue/digital instrument cluster, disc-brakes both at the front and rear with dual-channel ABS. The Honda CB500 will be offered in three variants: Alloy, spoke tubeless and spoke tubeless with graphics. Pricing and other details about the CB500 will be announced later this year.
Honda currently has two electric scooters on sale in India, the QC 1 and the Activa e. Taking its EV portfolio a step further, the company has now unveiled the QC 3, which sits above the QC 1 in its line-up. While it retains the same design language as its smaller sibling, the QC 3 packs a larger battery, resulting in improved range and higher performance. The Honda QC 3 is powered by a 3kWh battery pack which can provide up to 145km of IDC range. Charging duties are handled by a fast charger which charges the QC 3 up to 80 per cent in just 2 hours 45 minutes. Other features include a 5-inch TFT screen with Honda roadsync app connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation and a smart key system. Other features, specifications and price will be announced at a later stage.
Not much has changed on the Honda CB350 series. The only updates are two new colour options, while everything else remains the same. We expect that Honda might increase the prices of the CB350 range, but we'll know the final pricing once the bikes are officially launched.
With this extensive line-up, Honda has made its intentions crystal clear. From adventure bikes and cruisers to a maxi-scooter, a retro roadster and an electric scooter, the brand is targeting almost every major two-wheeler segment in India. This wave of new launches is set to make the market even more competitive, and considering Honda is already the country's highest-selling two-wheeler manufacturer, these new products could help it strengthen that position even further in the coming years.
