Honda Bikes

Honda ActivaNew Honda CKD Engine Assembly Line – Manufacturing Milestones: From Activa to Advanced EnginesHonda Motorcycle & Scooter India has inaugurated a new CKD Engine Assembly Line at its Global Resource Factory in Manesar, Gurugram, Haryana. The facility is key to Honda’s commitment to technological innovation, quality manufacturing, and its prominent position in the Indian two-wheeler market. Situated in Manesar, the new assembly line has ample capacity, capable of manufacturing up to 600 engines daily. Systems are designed to cater to a broad spectrum of models, from 110cc to 300cc. This facility demonstrates Honda’s versatility in addressing diverse market demands and adapting to evolving consumer preferences.Established in 2001, the Global Resource Factory was Honda’s pioneering venture into two-wheeler manufacturing in India. Since then, it has evolved into a vital export hub, catering to 58 markets worldwide. This growth trajectory caters to Honda’s pursuit of global excellence, and its significant contribution to the automotive landscape.New Honda CKD Engine Assembly LineCommitment to Quality: Ensuring Excellence in Every EngineThe new CKD Engine Assembly Line incorporates advanced technologies to ensure quality, efficiency, and precision. It utilises DC tools for critical torquing and features a vision camera inspection system for thorough quality checks. Complete traceability of parts and processes is ensured, enhancing transparency and accountability throughout the production process.The assembly line includes a dedicated exhaust collection line and an acoustic chamber for engine sound inspection. A necessity to maintain high-quality standards. Automation plays a crucial role in enhancing efficiency and accuracy in the new assembly line. Systems such as the flywheel assembly automation and automatic piston parts verification streamline the assembly process. Reducing manual errors and ensuring consistent quality across all engine components.Over Two Decades of Honda’s Quality Manufacturing in ManesarA small parts interlocking unit is implemented to minimise errors and ensure seamless ops. This proven approach to production is focused on error-free processes and a non-negotiable need to maintain standards in excellence in manufacturing.Reflecting Honda’s history in Manesar, ‘Activa’ was the first mass-produced model launched from the Global Resource Factory. This milestone marked the beginning of Honda’s journey towards technological advancements and innovation in the Indian market. With the introduction of the new CKD Engine Assembly Line, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India aims to strengthen its export capabilities and expand its market reach. Aligned to the company’s broader goals of market expansion, innovation, and delivering high-quality products.Boosting Export Capabilities: Otani on Honda’s Manufacturing FutureLeveraging advanced technologies and focusing on quality assurance is essential to business success. Honda’s new CKD Engine Assembly Line at the Global Resource Factory in Manesar represents the ethos of advancement in manufacturing capabilities. A prerequisite for Honda’s leadership in the automotive industry.Tsutsumu Otani, Managing Director, President and CEO, Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India, said, “We are happy to introduce a new engine assembly line for CKD exports at our Global Resource Factory in Manesar. It is a testament to our relentless pursuit of driving technological advancements in the industry. With this step, HMSI aims to boost its export capabilities, reaching new heights in market expansion and adherence to global quality standards.” More

Honda CB350 RS Dirt FreakIn India, Honda CB350 RS Dirt Freak inspired builds might spring up in the future and would be ideal rival to Royal Enfield Hunter 350 based custom buildsThe 3rd Nagoya Motorcycle Show was held in Japan between 5th to 7th April 2024. The show was a prominent platform for many modding companies to exhibit their vision and work. Renowned motorcycle modder Dirt Freak has showcased a Scrambler-style build based on a Honda CB350 RS sold as GB350 S in Japan and is quite spectacular.Honda CB350 RS Dirt Freak Looks EpicIn Honda’s classic-style single-cylinder motorcycle lineup, we have CB350 as a prominent offering. This platform has spawned quite a few variations in the form of H’ness CB350, CB350 RS and CB350. These motorcycles are also shipped to Japan from India and sold as GB350, GB350 S and GB350 C respectively.2024 Honda CB350 RS Dirt Freak DebutsOf these three, CB350 RS or GB350 S is the one that dons a scrambler-esque design language. But for Dirt Freak modding company, GB350 S was not Scrambler enough and they came up with their own take on this genre that looks much more appealing than standard GB350 S sold in Japan.For starters, Dirt Freak’s version of GB350 S looks a lot more capable off the road and on fast trails than standard bike. That is due to the vastly more capable block-pattern tyres used on this build. Increasing protection on off-road terrains, Dirt Freak has used a sturdy metallic bash plate for the engine and metallic reinforcement for exhaust down-pipe.2024 Honda CB350 RS Dirt Freak WindshieldTo protect rider’s knuckles from bushes and other vegetation while off-roading, there are options for Adventure Armour Hand Guard, Sonic Hand Guard and Sonic Hand Guard with optional Carbon or Clear Protector from Zeta Racing. To further aid in off-road escapades, Dirt Freak has gone with a Scrambler-style handlebar and spikey aluminium footpegs, both from Zeta Racing.Enhanced touring capabilityAlong with better off-road ability, touring capabilities of Honda CB350 RS Dirt Freak custom bike have been improved. For starters, the taller handlebar lends an upright riding posture that would be welcome on longer hauls. Bringing wind protection into the picture is Explorer Windshield Handle Brace from Zeta Racing.2024 Honda CB350 RS Dirt Freak Engine ProtectionThis brace supports a sturdy smartphone holder, also from Zeta Racing that riders can use for navigation and other use cases. Bundled in this package are DFG Side Bag Base that allows users to mount saddlebags without a frame. We’re not sure how these knobby tyres would fare on the road for longer hauls, but they look spectacular.Where powertrains are concerned, there are no changes to the stock 348.36cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine that kicks out 21 PS of peak power and 29.4 Nm of peak torque. This engine is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. Dirt Freak have kept other componentry stock. So, the suspension setup, braking and chassis remain identical to a stock GB350 S sold in Japan. More

Honda Activa6 crore sales milestone – Building Blocks from Manesar to VithalapurHonda Motorcycle & Scooter India has indeed traversed remarkable milestones, exemplifying its commendable journey in the Indian two-wheeler market. Achieving the monumental 6 crore domestic sales milestone in March 2024 is a testament to Honda’s unwavering commitment to reliability and efficiency. It marks a pivotal moment in its illustrious history.Since its incorporation (went solo) in 1999, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India has strategically expanded its manufacturing plants across the country. From the first plant in Manesar to the recent expansion at the Vithalapur plant in 2024, Honda has established a robust manufacturing infrastructure. These manufacturing facilities serve as the backbone of Honda’s operations. They have enables HMSI to meet the growing demand for its products and maintain its position in the top tier.Honda 6 Crore Sales MilestoneActiva: Setting the Stage for Honda’s SuccessIn 2001, HMSI introduced its inaugural two-wheeler, Activa. Setting the stage for its remarkable trajectory in the country. The topselling Indian scooter continues to be a winning proposition this many years later.In 2002, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India commenced its exports, marking expansion of its operations beyond the domestic market. By venturing into exports, Honda demonstrated its confidence in the quality and competitiveness of its products. And this paved the way for further growth and success in the years to come.Honda 6 Crore Sales MilestoneMilestones of Triumph: Honda’s Customer JourneyThe subsequent years witnessed Honda’s steady ascent. Marked by notable achievements such as reaching the 1 crore customers milestone in 2012. A testament to the brand’s growing popularity and widespread acceptance among Indian riders. By 2015, Honda had further established itself as a dominant player in the Indian two-wheeler landscape, celebrating the 2 crore customers milestone.The years that followed saw Honda’s relentless pursuit of excellence. Milestones aplenty. HMSi announced 3 crore customers in 2017 and 4 crore customers in 2018. In 2021, Honda achieved yet another monumental feat, surpassing the 5 crore customers milestone.Honda 6 crore sales milestone, Driving into the FutureFast forward to March 2024, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India has gone a step further. Achieving 6 crore domestic sales. Throughout its journey, Honda has diversified its product portfolio to cater to the evolving needs and preferences of Indian consumers. From the fuel-efficient 100cc Shine to the luxurious 1800cc GoldWing Tour, Honda offers a comprehensive range of scooters and motorcycles. There’s something for everyone.Honda continues to chart new territories and push the boundaries of innovation. Along the way, it remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering exceptional products and experiences to Indian consumers. With a legacy built on trust, and reliability, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India is poised to shape the future of mobility in India and beyond. And that future looks electric. More

Honda ActivaThe sales grew drastically in the case of motorcycles like Hornet 2.0, Livo, Dream and Unicorn 160 when compared to numbers from a year beforeIndia’s largest scooter manufacturer, HMSI (Honda Motorcycles and Scooters Ltd), ended the month of February 2024 on a positive note. The company has made significant advances in expanding the sales envelope and the results are respectable with 83.18% YoY growth in domestic market and sales more than doubled at 117.97% YoY growth in exports.Honda 2W Sales Breakup February 2024 – DomesticIn domestic market, HMSI’s primary contributor is Activa and will probably be that way for a long time, considering the pull it has on Indian buyers. At 2,00,134 units, Activa accounted for 48.11% of Honda’s domestic sales. Numbers saw 14.69% YoY growth over 1,74,503 units sold in February 2023 and gained 25,631 units in volume.CB Shine took the 2nd place in the charts with 1,20,119 units sold last month. When compared to the 35,594 units sold last year, numbers more than quadrupled at 237.47% YoY growth, gaining 84,525 units in volume. Shine accounted for 28.88% of Honda’s domestic sales. Dio doubled its numbers with 104.63% YoY growth selling 29,649 units over 14,489 units sold last year.Dio accounted for 7.13% of Honda’s domestic endeavours and gained 15,160 units in volume YoY. Unicorn showed stellar growth with 23,293 units sold and 1,693% YoY growth over 1,339 units sold a year ago. Recently launched Shinda 100 sold 22,644 units and SP160 sold 5,155 units. Also at the 5,100 units mark was Dream commuter with 5,103 units and 983.44% YoY growth.Honda 2W Sales Breakup February 2024 – DomesticLivo commuter bike saw 3,211 units sold and the bike registered 1,246.4% YoY growth over 222 units sold a year ago. H’ness sales have grown 549% YoY by pushing out 2,072 units last month. Recently launched CB350 (Classic) sold 1,784 units. The biggest sales comeback was demonstrated by Hornet 2.0.The bike sold 1,442 units as opposed to just 5 sold last year. Resulting in 28,740% YoY growth. Next in line was CB200X pseudo ADV with 750 units sold. With the recent price slashing exercise, CB300F sold 308 units and CB300R sold 219 units. The company’s 500cc twinner sold 66 units and the recently launched XL750 Transalp sold 18 units.In total, Honda’s domestic sales accounted for 4,15,967 units last month. When compared to the 2,27,083 units sold in February 2023, there was an 83.18% YoY growth and the volume gain stood at 1,88,884 units YoY.Honda 2W Sales Breakup February 2024 – ExportsExportsDiscontinued in India for slow sales, Navi is Honda’s highest exported vehicle shipping out 13,393 units last month. Navi accounted for 31.7% of Honda’s total exports and the 52.49% YoY growth brought a 4,610 units volume gain. Dio stood in 2nd place with 9,423 units and contributed 22.3% of Honda’s total exports. Dio saw 174.4% YoY growth and gained 5,989 units in volume. Rockstar in the domestic market, Activa saw 4,992 takers globally and saw 966.67% YoY growth.CB Shine and Dream sold 4,170 and 4,112 units and registered 297.9% and 416.58% YoY growth respectively. Honda CB350 and Hornet 2.0 sales fell close together at 1,976 and 1,780 units respectively. Hornet 2.0 saw 74.51% YoY growth. Hornet 160R and Livo sales fell close together with 1,076 units and 1,000 units respectively. Where Hornet 160R registered 60.12% YoY growth, Livo’s was 150% YoY growth.CB200X sold 280 units and Unicorn 160 sold 48 units last month. In total, Honda’s exports stood at 42,250 units, up from 19,383 units sold a year ago. This accounted for 117.97% YoY growth and gained 22,867 units in volume YoY. More

Honda Stylo 160cc Scooter Patented In IndiaUpon launch in India, Honda Stylo 160 will take on rivals such as Yamaha Aerox 155 and upcoming Hero Xoom 160Honda recently expanded its scooter portfolio with the Stylo 160 neo-retro scooter. It is available for sale in Indonesia. More markets will be covered in the near future. Honda Stylo 160 is expected to be launched in India as well.Honda Stylo 160 design patent filedIn terms of volumes, the scooter segment in India is largely dominated by 110cc and 125cc models. As the market evolves, many users will be looking to upgrade to more powerful machines. Yamaha already offers the Aerox 155, whereas Hero MotoCorp is readying the Xoom 160. It appears that Honda has also sensed an opportunity, evident with the recent design patent filed for Stylo 160.Honda Stylo 160cc Scooter Patented In IndiaOne of the key highlights of Honda Stylo 160 is its neo-retro profile. The curvy body panelling seems familiar to iconic Lambretta scooters. Some of the key highlights include hexagonal LED headlamp, circular rear-view mirrors, C-shaped LED DRLs, edgy LED tail lamp, comfy seat and a robust grab rail.While Stylo 160 has an attractive design, the quirky colour options make the visuals even more appealing. It makes the scooter a lot more fun for young consumers. A total of six colour options are available for Stylo 160. It includes Royal Green, Royal Matte White, Royal Matte Black, Glam Red, Glam Black and Glam Beige. While the first three are ABS versions, the latter three are equipped with CBS.Honda Stylo 160cc Scooter Patented In IndiaRoyal versions of Stylo 160 have a more eye-catching profile, as evident with the contrasting brown shade on the seat, handlebar and floorboard area. Royal variants also have the front forks and grab rail in silver finish. Glam variants of Stylo 160 have standard black seats and black floorboard area. Front forks and grab rails are also done in black finish.2024 Honda Stylo 160cc Scooter featuresHonda Stylo 160 features, performanceTech kit onboard Stylo 160 includes a new full digital instrument panel. It displays a range of information such as digital clock, fuel consumption, tripmeter, speedometer, battery indicator, smart key, oil change status and ABS indicator. Users also benefit from Honda Smartkey System, a fully electronic ignition and handlebar locking key. The smartkey also comes with Answer Back System and Anti-Theft Alarm.Talking about hardware, Honda Stylo 160 utilizes an underbone eSAF (enhanced Smart Architecture Frame). At rear, the scooter has a swing arm with single suspension. There are 12-inch wheels at both ends, shod with 110/90 front and 130/80 rear tubeless tyres. The scooter weighs 118 kg (ABS) / 115 kg (CBS) and has ground clearance of 151 mm. Seat height of 768 mm is appropriate for optimal control and handling.2024 Honda Stylo 160cc Scooter featuresPowering the Honda Stylo 160 scooter is a 156.9 cc, liquid cooled, 4 Valves, eSP+ engine. It generates 15.4 PS of max power and 13.8 Nm of peak torque. Rated fuel efficiency is 45 km/L. Honda Stylo 160 is expected to be launched in India later this year. Prices could start at around Rs 1.50 lakh. More

2024 Honda CB125RWhile 2024 Honda CB125R adds more value for enthusiasts, performance aspects are the same as earlierAcross European markets, Honda has unveiled the new 2024 CB125R model. The bike belongs to the Neo Sports Cafe family and borrows design inspiration from the awesome CB1000R. With the updates introduced for the 2024 model, Honda CB125R has become an even more enticing option for enthusiasts.2024 Honda CB125R – What’s New?One of the key updates is that the 2024 Honda CB125R complies with Euro5+ emission norms. In Europe, the CB125R is primarily targeted at A1 license holders. This license is for riders in the age group of 17 to 19 years. A1 license is meant for bikes with cylinder capacity of up to 125cc.2024 Honda CB125R New TFT ScreenThe upper limit for power output is set at 15 hp. Honda CB125R’s upgrade to Euro5+ hasn’t resulted in any tangible difference in performance. Among the exciting features that make Honda CB125R a popular choice among enthusiasts is the 5-inch TFT full-colour instrument display.The rectangular shape with bevelled edges complements the bike’s overall design and styling. The screen is positioned at an angle, which makes it easier to see all the information while riding the bike. It has a speedometer, RPM, gear position indicator, fuel gauge and clock. To make it easier to operate the TFT screen, a new select switch has been added to the left switch box.2024 Honda CB125REnthusiasts won’t have to make any compromises, as the 2024 Honda CB125R is available in four colour options. For an aggressive road presence, users can probably choose the Matte Cynos Gray Metallic colour option. This shade perfectly captures the compact, powerful design of the bike.For a sportier look, users can choose the Leaf Sea Blue Metallic or the Pearl Splendor Red colour option. The respective blue and red shades have been applied on the fuel tank and under seat structure. The most sober colour option is the Pearl Cool White.2024 Honda CB125R Engine2024 Honda CB125R – Performance, specsPowering the bike is a 124.9cc water-cooled, 4-stroke DOHC 4-valve single-cylinder engine. It churns out 14.95 PS of max power and 11.6 Nm of peak torque. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. As per WMTC standards, fuel efficiency is 45.5 km/L with 1 person on board. The bike is 2,025 mm long, 820 mm wide and 1,055 mm tall. Seat height of 816 mm seems slightly above the comfort zone of 800 mm. Honda CB125R weighs 130 kg and has ground clearance of 140 mm.India launch prospectsWith its sporty neo-retro profile, Honda CB125R has potential for the Indian market. However, mass market deployment will be possible only if the bike is offered at competitive rates. In the UK, the 2023 Honda CB125 is available at an on-road price of £4,249 (approx. Rs 4.48 lakh). Pricing for the 2024 model will be announced in the coming months in Europe. If launched here, Honda CB125R will take on rivals such as KTM 125 Duke. More

2024 Honda Africa Twin LaunchedBoth Standard Africa Twin and Africa Twin Adventure Sport ES get distinct colourways, unique fairing design and different featuresWorld renowned motorcycle manufacturer, Honda, has updated its Africa Twin ADV line (CRF1100L) to MY2024 with updates to its powertrain and componentry. Both Standard Africa Twin and Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES have been updated with new powertrain. Do these updates navigate their way to Indian market? That’s the question.2024 Honda Africa LaunchedThese off-road horses from Honda are known for their capability and enjoy quite a fan following across the world. In Japan, standard Africa twin is priced at JPY 1,639,000 (Rs. 9 Lakh) for manual gearbox and (Rs. 9.6 lakh) for DCT variant. Africa Twin ES, however, is priced at a slight premium costing JPY 1,947,000 (Rs. 10.7 lakh) for manual and JPY 2,057,000 (Rs. 11.3 lakh) for DCT.Both Standard Africa Twin and Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES get sole colourways to distinguish between variants. Standard Africa Twin flaunts Grand Prix Red colourway with a hint of Blue and Black in the mix. Where Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES is concerned, Honda is making it available with Pearl Glare White with a dash of Blue and Red in the mix.Powertrain upgradesThis is the juiciest part of this upgrade. 2024 Honda Africa Twin launched, gets a few updates to its powertrain. The engine continues to be the same tried and tested 1,048cc Unicam (SOHC) 4V liquid-cooled parallel twin-cylinder unit with a 46mm throttle body that we have seen before. This unit gets either a 6-speed manual or DCT gearbox options with a chain drive.2024 Honda Africa Twin Manual and DCTFor MY2024, Honda has updated the bike’s intake and exhaust systems for better breathability. Not just that. Honda has even upped Africa Twin’s compression ratio to 10.5:1 and implemented a revised valve timing. Fuel injection maps have been altered for all variants of 2024 Honda Africa Twin launched.With all these revisions combined, there is a claimed 7% increase in torque that could be more evident in the mid-range of the power band. Peak power for this engine is 98 bhp at 7,500 RPM and peak torque is now 112 Nm at 5,500 RPM, up from 103 Nm at 6,250 RPM of previous bike. The peak torque comes in at lower RPMs too, which enhances drivability.Updates to design and componentryDespite being cut from the same cloth, both Standard Africa Twin and Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES get slightly different fairings. We should say, both fairings look well-judged complementing their respective exclusive colourways. Even the knuckle guards and windshield height are different too.Standard Honda Africa Twin Vs Africa Twin Adventure Sports ESPrimary differences between the two lie with their componentry. Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES gets 19-inch front wheel wrapped with 110/80-19 tubeless tyres, while Standard model continues to get a 21-inch front wheel with 90/90-21 tyres. The 45mm USD front forks are black on Standard and gold on ES. Cruise control, heated grips and electronically controlled suspension are only offered with Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES. More

2025 Honda 350cc ADV RenderNew bikes based on the CB350 platform will augment Honda’s capabilities to take on rivals like Royal EnfieldWhile Royal Enfield dominates the 300cc-500cc segment with more than 80% market share, it is Honda that comes in second with market share of around 4-5%. It is apparent that the huge difference in sales is a big challenge for Honda. To fix the issue and to maintain a lead over upcoming rivals, Honda will be introducing multiple new bikes based on the CB350 platform.Honda CB350-based ADV launch soonFor ADV enthusiasts in the country, one of the most popular entry-level options is undeniably the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450. Honda will soon enter this space with a new CB350-based ADV bike. Recent leaked design patents reveal that Honda is also working on a scrambler version based on the CB350 platform. Both the ADV and the scrambler will share multiple components to reduce production and development costs.Honda CB350 ADV Design Sketch Patent LeaksTalking about the Honda CB350-based ADV, the bike will have an overall look and feel similar to that of Himalayan 450. Some of the key features will include a raised front beak, fork gaiters, round headlamp, large windscreen, circular rear-view mirrors, knuckle guards and upswept exhaust.Based on the leaked patent sketch, Pratyush Rout has created a digital render of the upcoming Honda 350cc ADV motorcycle for India. As compared to the curvy fuel tank used with CB350, the ADV bike will have a sharper, chiselled profile for the fuel tank. Addition of tank shrouds complements the bike’s rugged character.2025 Honda 350cc ADV RenderSimilar to Himalayan 450, the Honda CB350-based ADV will be getting a luggage rack at the front. The grab rail at rear has an extended form that can double up as an integrated luggage rack. Honda CB350-based ADV will have a sportier profile in comparison to CB350. It will be seen with exciting new colour shades and lively graphics and decals.2025 Honda 350cc ADV RenderHonda CB350-based ADV specs, performanceHardware specs include telescopic front forks and dual shock absorbers at rear. The bike could get an entirely new suspension setup or the existing units on CB350 could be tweaked to suit the needs of the ADV. Both wheels have disc brakes, likely to be 310 mm front and 240 mm rear units. Dual-channel ABS will be offered as standard. Switchable ABS functionality is likely to be offered with the Honda CB350-based ADV bike.Powering the bike will be the 348.36cc engine that churns out 21 PS of max power and 29.4 Nm of peak torque. The engine is mated to a 5-speed gearbox and comes with assist slipper clutch for seamless control and effortless riding. While a comprehensive range of accessories are already available with CB350, the ADV bike could get additional accessory options such as panniers and top box.2025 Honda 350cc ADV RenderHonda could launch the CB350-based ADV at an affordable price of around Rs 2.40 lakh. Launch is expected by the end of this year. Apart from Himalayan 450, Honda CB350-based ADV will challenge other rivals such as BMW G310GS, Triumph Scrambler 400X, KTM 390 Adventure and Yezdi Adventure. More