Honda Bikes

2023 Activa Limited EditionWith this new limited edition variant, Honda Activa is offering a youthful appeal that should appeal to younger audienceBeing the king of the hill is only half the job done. Keeping the throne intact is relatively more tedious. This isn’t really an issue for Honda Activa as it is the undisputed king of scooters sold in India. HMSI is now offering a new Limited Edition with 2023 Activa scooter. Bookings are open across all Red Wing dealerships.2023 Activa Limited EditionAfter launching SP125 Sports Edition, Honda has launched Limited Edition variant of 2023 Activa for a limited period of time. 2023 Activa is on offer with three variants – STD, DLX and Smart. Honda is offering Limited Edition treatment with DLX and Smart variants only. Pricing for Limited Edition is Rs. 80,734 for DLX and Rs. 82,734 for Smart variant.With DLX variant Limited Edition costs Rs. 2,000 more and with Smart variant, added cost is Rs. 500. Interestingly, Honda calls the top spec as ‘Smart’ variant with Limited Edition and ‘H-Smart’ with regular Activa. Also, Honda refers to it as ‘Special Edition’ in some materials and denotes top-spec variant as ‘H-Smart’. Other than that 2023 Activa Limited Edition is just a cosmetic and visual upgrade rather than functional.There are two colours on offer – Matte Steel Black Metallic and Pearl Siren Blue. These shades are much more appealing than the slew of options standard Activa gets. The new colours get special patterns on front apron and side body panels. Along with these patterns, white stripes add a dash of excitement too, present on side body panels and front apron.Activa Limited Edition ColourOther than that, Honda has used black chrome elements for the first time on Activa. These elements are primarily found in 3D Activa emblem. Rear grab rail gets glossy body colour finish, that looks a lot more interesting.Specs & FeaturesA semi-digital instrument console houses speedo, odo, fuel level, trips and tell-tale signs. 2023 Activa Limited Edition will retain the same 109.51 cc single-cylinder engine developing 7.68 bhp of power and 8.90 Nm of torque. Features like a silent starter, external fuel filler and everything will be carried over too. We would have liked a disc brake option with Limited Edition, but that isn’t the case.Top-spec Smart variant gets LED headlights, a smart key, keyless ignition, alloy wheels, and more. As of now, TVS Jupiter and Suzuki Access stand in 2nd and 3rd place in scooter sales charts. Honda is offering 3 years standard warranty and 7 year optional warranty for added peace of mind.Activa Limited Edition featuresWords from the manufacturerCommenting on the launch of the new Honda Activa Limited Edition, Mr. Tsutsumu Otani, Managing Director, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “Activa has revolutionized the Indian two-wheeler segment and delighted millions of Indians over last two decades. Maintaining popularity across all age groups, it is India’s most loved scooter. We are confident that the launch of this new Limited Edition Activa will further excite our customers, especially the new generation buyers.”Introducing Honda’s new limited edition offering, Mr. Yogesh Mathur, Director, Sales and Marketing, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said,“We are pleased to announce the launch of Activa Limited Edition ahead of the auspicious festive season with striking looks, smart advanced features and a trusted reliable engine. As we strive to meet the evolving customer aspirations, HMSI will continue to raise the bar and introduce new-age offerings to provide an unmatched ownership experience.” More

Honda SP125 Sports Edition LaunchedAs opposed to the standard model with a disc brake option, Honda SP125 Sports Edition costs Rs. 550 moreAhead of festive season, HMSI (Honda Motorcycles and Scooters) has launched Sports Edition of its relatively new SP125 commuter motorcycle. The pricing is fairly decent at Rs. 90,567 (ex-sh, Delhi) and costs Rs. 550 more than the standard SP125 with a disc brake option. It takes on the likes of other 125cc premium commuters including Hero Glamour XTEC and TVS Raider 125.Honda SP125 Sports Edition LaunchedFor starters, standard Honda S125 starts from Rs. 86,017 (ex-sh, Delhi) for the base variant with a drum brake at the front. However, Honda doesn’t mention it, but is highly likely that SP125 Sports Edition is based on disc brake variant of standard SP125. At least the press images show a disc brake with Sports Edition.Honda is pitting it as a regular commuter motorcycle with an added dash of youthfulness that might appeal to a younger audience. This seems to be a calculated move after TVS launched Super Squad Edition with Raider 125 (in Iron Man and Black Panther inspired livery), which is S125’s key competitor.How much more sportiness does Sports Edition pack?Honda isn’t offering more performance or added dynamics with SP125 Sports Edition, as the name might otherwise suggest. Changes are primarily in the new colours – Decent Blue Metallic and Heavy Grey Metallic. Honda is offering a matte-finished muffler cover along with youthful graphics across fuel tank and side body panels.Honda SP125 SpecsThere are contrasting stripes on the alloy wheels too, adding to overall aesthetics. The 123.94cc single-cylinder engine remains identical and ekes out the same 10.7 bhp of power and 10.9 Nm of torque, mated to a 5-speed gearbox. Fuel efficiency should be pretty respectable as well.This engine was made compliant with BS6 P2 emission norms along with E20 fuel (20% Ethanol) compatible in March 2023. Highlight features are full LED headlights, a fully digital instrument cluster with real-time fuel efficiency and gear position indicator, a diamond type frame, a disc brake at the front and more.Words from the manufacturerIntroducing Honda’s latest limited edition offering, Mr. Tsutsumu Otani, Managing Director, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “Ever since its introduction, the Honda SP125 has excited the customers with its advanced features, stylish design and thrilling performance in the 125cc premium commuter motorcycle segment. We are confident that the launch of the new SP125 Sports Edition will further delight our customers, especially the younger generation.”Commenting on the launch of the Honda SP125 Sports Edition, Mr. Yogesh Mathur, Director, Sales and Marketing, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “We are happy to announce the launch of the new Honda SP125 Sports Edition. With its bold appeal and modern equipment, it is here to offer you an experience that is Beyond Advanced. We believe that the new Sports Edition of the SP125 will remain a popular choice among the customers and set new benchmarks in its segment.” More

Honda Repsol Edition range with Hornet 2.0 and Dio 125Mechanically, Honda Repsol Edition of both Hornet 2.0 and Dio 125 remain identical to their standard models respectivelyHonda Motorcycles and Scooters India (HMSI) has launched special Repsol Edition variants of their popular Hornet 2.0 and Dio 125. Both motorcycles now get special liveries with Repsol branding. With Repsol Editions, Honda intends to celebrate India’s maiden MotoGP event – Moto GP Bharat.Hornet 2.0 Repsol EditionHonda recently updated the Hornet 2.0 and made it comply BS6 P2 emission standards along with RDE norms and E20 fuel compatibility. This naked street commuter is one of the sportiest and most appealing motorcycles in its segment. Hornet 2.0 holds quite a pull on prospective buyers with its captivating design and appearance.Hornet 2.0 Repsol Edition costs Rs. 1.4 lakh (ex-sh), which is Rs. 1,000 more expensive than standard model. Repsol Edition gets a new stylish and dual-tone livery. Primary colours of choice are Ross White and Vibrant Orange. The Ross White elements extend from rear subframe body panels through side body panels and into its fuel tank.At the fuel tank, this Ross White livery lends the look of a perimeter frame, even though Hornet 2.0 gets a diamond frame. Hornet 2.0 Repsol Edition gets red pillion grab handles and red pin striping on alloy wheels. The 184.4cc single-cylinder engine gets 17 bhp of power and 15.9 Nm of torque. Slipper clutch, petal disc brakes, single-channel ABS, full LED lighting are notable elements.Hornet 2.0 Repsol EditionDio 125 Repsol EditionIn Honda’s extensive scooter lineup, Dio 125 is the newest. Range starts from Rs. 83,400 and the Repsol Edition costs Rs. 90,000 (both prices ex-sh). Dio 125 shares the design and body panels with 110cc Dio and packs new and modern features. Smart key and fully digital instrument cluster are new and highlight elements.Repsol Edition of Dio 125 gets the same Ross White and Vibrant Orange colour livery. As opposed to black wheels on Hornet 2.0 Repsol Edition, Dio 125 Repsol Edition gets alloy wheels painted in Vibrant Orange. There are multiple brandings and other visual highlights exclusive to Repsol Edition.The 123.92cc engine on Dio 125 generates 8.2 bhp of power and 10.4 Nm of torque. Dio 125 Repsol Edition features 12-inch alloy wheels, disc brakes and CBS as standard model.Dio 125 Repsol EditionWords from the manufacturerIntroducing HMSI’s latest offerings, Mr. Tsutsumu Otani, Managing Director, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “Racing is the heart of Honda. The pinnacle of motorcycle racing, MotoGP, is happening in India for the first time ever and there is a lot of enthusiasm among the Indian fans to witness history in the making. To further amplify their excitement, we have launched the 2023 Repsol Editions of Hornet 2.0 and Dio 125. We wish the upcoming BharatGP to be a great success.”Commenting on the launch of the 2023 Repsol Limited Edition models, Mr. Yogesh Mathur, Director, Sales and Marketing, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “We are excited to launch the new 2023 Repsol Edition of Hornet 2.0 and Dio 125.Both these models have delighted customers in their respective segments and with the launch of these Limited-Edition versions, we are happy to transform Honda’s racing DNA on Indian roads for the MotoGP fans in India. We also extend our best wishes to the Repsol Honda Team for the maiden BharatGP.” More

Honda Motocompacto e-scooterWith its compact, lightweight profile, Honda Motocompacto can fulfil a variety of last-mile commuting needsGoing beyond the compulsions of range and performance, Honda Motocompacto mini electric scooter creates its own niche market segment. It perfectly suits last-mile commuting needs across large campuses, offices and industrial hubs, urban centres, large fairs and exhibitions and tourist hotspots. With foldable parts, this suitcase-sized mini scooter can be easily carried and used anywhere.Honda Motocompacto features, specsWhen folded, Honda Motocompacto can be easily mistaken for some sort of hi-tech luggage carrier. The handlebar and seat can be neatly tucked away when the scooter is not in use. There’s a dedicated carry handle to make it easier to lift the mini scooter. Side stand and foot rests are fully concealed when not in use. The scooter also has a small LED headlight and tail lamp.There’s storage inside the scooter for the charger. The charging port is located at the front, just below the headlamp. The scooter can be charged with any 15-amp socket. It takes around 3.5 hours to achieve a full charge from 0% to 100%. The battery pack is rated at 6.8Ah and seems to be a non-removable unit.The scooter is equipped with a 490-watt electric motor that generates 16 Nm of peak torque. Honda Motocompacto can achieve a top speed of 24 kmph. Accelerating from 0 to 24 kmph will take around 7 seconds. Motocompacto offers a range of 19 km. Considering a two-way trip, any destination within a radius of 7-8 km should be easily reachable.[embedded content]Of course, range won’t be an issue in places where charging ports are easily accessible. While being lightweight and compact, Honda Motocompacto can support heavyset individuals. Rated load capacity is 265 lbs (approx. 120 Kg).Motocompacto has a small digital instrument console that displays info such as battery level, speed, etc. Next to it is a small on/off push button switch. The size of the wheels looks pretty small, which can limit the usability of the scooter. Hopefully, a good suspension setup has been used to compensate for any inconveniences created by the small wheels.Honda Motocompacto priceWhile it looks unique, Honda Motocompacto is not necessary an original idea. The original version was conceptualized a few decades back by Honda as an ICE-based 49cc two-stroke mini scooter. However, the new version of Motocompacto looks a lot more sophisticated and environment-friendly. Honda Motocompacto has already received 32 patents.Honda Motocompacto stored in a carAlthough Honda Motocompacto can be useful, it may not be accessible to everyone. Price in the USA is $995, which is approximately Rs 83,000. Going forward, Honda has plans to introduce more features with the Motocompacto mini electric scooter. A dedicated phone app is being developed, which will be available for both Android and Apple devices. Users will be able to access a range of features such as personalization, ride modes, remote battery status, navigation, etc. More

2023 Honda CB200X LaunchedThe 184.4cc single-cylinder engine now meets BS6 P2 emission standards and brings OBD-II diagnostics suite as wellAfter updating the CB300F with a killer price revision strategy, Honda 2W India has launched 2023 CB200X at Rs. 1.47 lakh (ex-sh). This is the newest update to CB200X that brings it in line with other Honda motorcycles in terms of emission standards. The updated 184.4cc engine is now BS6 P2 compliant and sports OBD II compatibility. Colour options include Decent Blue Metallic (new), Pearl Nightstar Black & Sports Red.2023 Honda CB200X – ADV-styled Hornet 2.0It is an ADV-styled commuter that gets its design inspiration from CB500X ADV. Looks are one of the biggest strengths of this motorcycle and even feels a lot more premium when compared to other motorcycles of this engine class.The sharp fairing, knuckle guard-mounted LED turn indicators, full LED headlights and gold-finished USD telescopic front forks lend it a rich and premium appeal. Even though 2023 Honda Cb200X shares engine and platform with Hornet 2.0, the faux ADV packs in extensive upgrades that lend it a unique character of its own.The handlebar on CB200X is more upright than Hornet 2.0’s and gives a more relaxed rider’s triangle. There is an impressive windshield mounted on the bikini fairing that should provide decent protection from wind blasts at higher speeds. Knuckle guards come in handy as well. Hornet 2.0 misses out on these attributes.2023 Honda CB200X SpecsWhat does it pack?Honda calls CB200X an Urban Explorer, which is befitting. As opposed to its predecessor, 2023 Honda CB200X packs all-new graphics that look bolder than before. Attributes like an agile diamond frame along with USD telescopic front forks and rear mono-shock suspension setup lend impressive handling characteristics.This update mainly revolves around the engine, which is now OBD-II compliant for real-time diagnostics as part of BS6 P2 emission norms. If there is a malfunction detected, a warning light flashes, notifying the rider. This engine generates around 17 bhp of peak power at 8,500 RPM and 15.9 Nm of peak torque at 6,000 RPM mated to a 5-speed gearbox.Honda offers petal disc setup at the front and back along with the safety net of single-channel ABS. Slip and assist clutch ensures minimum effort while clutch action and reduces wheel hopping when downshifting. The fully digital instrument cluster looks modern and packs adjustable brightness too. No Bluetooth, though.2023 Honda CB200X FeaturesThe new Honda CB200X would have benefitted with a price cut as we saw with CB300F. However, that isn’t the case and Honda has priced it at Rs. 1.47 lakh (ex-sh). 2023 Honda CB200X is more expensive than Hero Xpulse 200 4V as well, which is a true-blue off-road machine with more performance.Words from the manufacturerCommenting on the launch of the new CB200X, Mr. Tsutsumu Otani, Managing Director, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “Today marks a significant milestone as we launch the 2023 CB200X inspired by Honda’s legendary CB legacy. Since its launch in 2021, CB200X has received tremendous response in the market and is a perfect riding companion for the customer’s daily commutes as well as short weekend getaways beyond the cityscapes.”Introducing HMSI’s latest offering, Mr. Yogesh Mathur, Director, Sales and Marketing, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “We are pleased to introduce the 2023 CB200X with an OBD2 compliant engine, stylish graphics and a new assist & slipper clutch. Marking a steady evolution in the 180-200cc motorcycle segment, the CB200X urban explorer is inspired by the dreams of the new-age customers and their passion for motorcycle riding who want to Explore Life with Every Ride!” More

Image for illustration purpose onlyThe names i-M and i-M1 e are Honda’s most recent trademarks and could evolve into two new electric scooters for IndiaIndian electric 2W envelope is mostly dominated by startup brands. More and more mainstream bike makers are now entering this space. We have TVS and Hero MotoCorp have already arrived. However, Japanese bike makers have yet to make their presence known in this space. Will Honda break the ice with ‘i-M’ and ‘i-M1 e’ electric scooters?Honda Files Trademarks For i-M and i-M1 eThere have been multiple speculations about Honda launching a new electric scooter in India. In fact, Honda has confirmed two different e-scooters for India, slated to launch in 2024. Even though Honda is highly likely to launch them under the ‘Activa’ umbrella, two new trademarks have been filed by the company – i-M and i-M1 e.New Honda i-M, i-M1 e Electric ScooterThese could very well be Honda’s next electric scooters. In the automotive world, the letter ‘i’ is usually associated with intelligent or innovative vehicles. Honda’s newest trademarks could be the embodiment of the brand’s innovation as these will be the first set of e-scooters from Honda in India.Both i-M and i-M1 e trademarks have been filed on 13/6/2023 and the status reads ‘Formalities check pass’. Honda probably intends to use i-M1 and i-M1 e trademarks on its upcoming electric vehicles, irrespective of the number of wheels, as seen in the description.New Honda i-M, i-M1 e Electric ScooterWhat to expect?Honda 2W India might develop an all-new platform for these electric scooters, codenamed Platform E. This platform is said to be compatible with both fixed battery and swappable battery architectures. Hence, one of the two scooters will sport a fixed battery setup, while the other will get a swappable battery kit.There is a probability of the fixed battery scooter taking the PV route, while the swappable battery model takes CV route for commercial applications. Either way, Honda will make sure there is enough performance and range on tap, which is on par with what rivals have to offer in their respective segments.A high level of localisation will be a priority to keep costs in check. Given that it is from Honda, there is a level of reliability and safety associated with these upcoming products too. Honda Motorcycles and Scooters India is currently spawning a new manufacturing facility in Narasapura, Karnataka, to accommodate future 2W production demands.Price point will be interesting as Honda is likely to position them mostly for first-time buyers. These might prove to be good alternatives for affordable ICE scooters. Launch could happen in January 2024, as confirmed by CEO. Considering how many trademarks Honda files in India and how many of them turn out into real product launches, i-M and i-M1 e names may just be intellectual property protecting mechanisms as well. More

2023 Honda CB30FAt Rs. 1.70 lakh (ex-sh), 2023 Honda CB300F makes a lot of sense and poses immense value proposition as wellHonda Motorcycles and Scooters India has launched the MY2023 version of its CB300F. This update brings Street Fighter to MY2023 with OBD-II OBD-II-compliant powertrain. The main highlight of this launch, however, is the killer pricing. At Rs. 1.7 lakh (ex-sh), Honda CB300F brings fantastic value.2023 Honda CB300F Launched – Value redefined!The newest version of Honda CB300F is available across all Big Wing dealer networks across the country. As opposed to Deluxe and Deluxe Pro variants sold since launch, MY2023 Honda CB300F is now on offer with a sole variant that packs a connectivity suite that was limited to Deluxe Pro variant before.There are three colours on offer – Sports Red, Mat Marvel Blue Metallic & Mat Axis Grey Metallic. This Rs. 1.7 lakh pricing (ex-sh) is pricing straight from Honda and not a dealer-level offer we have seen in the past. New pricing is Rs. 56,000 less expensive than Deluxe and Rs. 59,000 less expensive than Deluxe Pro when first launched in India in August 2022.For context, Honda CB300F is more than Rs. 12,000 less expensive than Yamaha R15, which has half the displacement of CB300F. For the price, Honda offers a street fighter motorcycle with handsome looks, decent product packaging and componentry and aims to be a do-it-all motorcycle for spirited daily commutes and exhilarating weekend getaways.Honda CB300FWhat does it pack at Rs. 1.7 lakh?This new pricing sheds a whole new perspective on Honda CB300F. The ‘Formidable’ street fighter is still powered by the same oil-cooled 293cc engine as before. However, Honda has now given it OBD-II A compliance as part of BS6 P2 transition. This fuel-injected engine develops around 24 bhp of power and 25.6 Nm of torque.A 6-speed sequential gearbox, slip and assist clutch continue to do duties. Slip and assist clutch enables quick gear shifts and it also prevents rear wheel hopping during aggressive downshifts. Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) is still present and it still sounds a lot like a Traction Control System (TCS).Componentry includes a single disc setup at both ends with dual-channel ABS, golden-finished USD telescopic front forks, a 5-step adjustable rear mono-shock, a fat 150-section rear tyre and more. Features include all LED lighting, a fully digital instrument cluster with adjustable brightness and Honda Smartphone Voice Control System (HSVCS) for smartphone connectivity.Words from the manufacturerIntroducing the 2023 Honda CB300F, Mr. Tsutsumu Otani, Managing Director, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “Since its launch, Honda CB300F has been a remarkable head turner. With the spirit of a true street fighter and the fine balance of performance, versatility & modernism, CB300F has fulfilled the aspirations of the next gen riders in providing unmatched style, comfort and power.The new 2023 model is further advanced with the OBD-II A engine and other modern technologies that will further elevate riding experience with punchy performance and agility on road.”Commenting on the launch of 2023 CB300F, Mr. Yogesh Mathur, Director, Sales and Marketing, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “We are excited to introduce the 2023 OBD-II A complaint CB300F, a symbol of our commitment to delivering exhilarating riding experience to all our customers. Embodying the spirit of a true street fighter, the CB300F will conquer the urban style with its powerful and agile performance.We are excited to announce that bookings are now open, offering you the chance to be among the first to experience the thrill of the open road where style meets substance. Up-gear to the new CB300F and redefine your riding adventure.” More

Honda ActivaActiva accounts for about 70% of the total domestic sales registered by Honda two wheelers in IndiaHonda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) has wrapped up the month of August 2023 on an incredibly positive note, further solidifying its position as a dominant force in the Indian two-wheeler market. With a strong focus on customer satisfaction, innovation, and a diverse product lineup, HMSI announced its sales numbers for August 2023, revealing a substantial year-on-year growth of 3%, totaling 4,77,590 units.Honda 2W Sales Aug 2023 Year-on-Year GrowthComparing this year’s August figures to the same month in 2022, HMSI has witnessed significant progress. In August 2022, the company sold 4,63,650 units, whereas in August 2023, they reported an impressive 4,77,590 units, marking an encouraging 3% growth. This remarkable year-on-year performance underscores the company’s ability to consistently meet and exceed customer expectations.Honda 2W sales Aug 2023 – Domestic vs ExportsThe domestic market remains the cornerstone of HMSI’s success, contributing a substantial 94.47% to the total sales for August 2023. Domestic sales alone reached an impressive 4,51,200 units, highlighting the brand’s strong foothold in the country.Exports and Global ReachHMSI’s global presence continues to expand, with exports accounting for 5.53% of the total sales in August 2023. Although exports witnessed a slight decline, with 26,390 units compared to 39,307 units in August 2022, HMSI remains committed to strengthening its international presence.Honda 2W sales Aug 2023Comparing August 2023 to July 2023, HMSI experienced a remarkable month-on-month growth of 41.17%. Domestic sales skyrocketed by 45.14%, with 1,40,333 additional units sold in just one month. Exports, while experiencing a slight dip of 3.84%, remain a significant contributor to the company’s overall performance.The Activa FactorA substantial portion of HMSI’s domestic sales can be attributed to the immensely popular Activa scooter, which accounts for approximately 70% of the company’s sales in India. Alongside the Activa, HMSI offers the Dio scooter, providing customers with a diverse range of options to suit their preferences.In August 2023, HMSI introduced several exciting additions to its product portfolio. The launch of the all-new SP160 continues the legacy of the SP brand, while the company also introduced OBD2-compliant versions of the 2023 Honda Livo, CD110 Dream Deluxe, and Hornet 2.0, showcasing their commitment to innovation and technological advancements.Honda Motorsports Updated Aug 2023In the competitive world of motorsports, the IDEMITSU Honda India Racing team demonstrated their mettle during Round 4 of the 2023 FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) at the Mandalika International Street Circuit in Indonesia, securing 2 valuable points. More