Honda Bikes

2023 Honda Activa 125 Smart Key VariantHonda two wheeler sales both in domestic and export markets fell considerably on a YoY basis but saw some improvement MoMHonda Motorcycle and Scooter India has been experiencing shrinking sales over the past months. Total sales (domestic + exports) in July 2023 fell 23.73 percent to 3,38,310 units, down from 4,43,543 units sold in July 2022. This was a volume de-growth of 1,05,233 units.Honda 2W Sales July 2023Honda 2W sales in domestic markets dipped 22.80 percent YoY to 3,10,867 units in July 2023. This was a 91,834 unit volume de-growth as compared to 4,02,701 units sold in July 2022. The domestic market currently commands a 91.89 percent share while exports hold an 8.11 percent share.Honda 2W Sales July 2023Exports also fell by 32.81 percent to 27,443 units in July 2023. This was against 40,842 units sold in July 2022 relating to a 13,399 unit volume de-growth. Taking MoM sales into account, Honda has experienced growth both in terms of domestic sales and exports.Total sales in the past month (domestic + exports) rose 4.39 percent MoM from 3,24,093 units sold in June 2023. There had been 3,02,756 units sold in domestic markets relating to a 2.68 percent MoM growth while exports improved by 28.62 percent over 21,337 units shipped in June 2023.New Product Launch and Network ExpansionThere is a new Honda motorcycle set to be unveiled on 2nd August 2023. This bike is in the 150-160cc segment and is likely to be called Honda SP160. It is being launched in the premium commuter range and prices are likely to start from Rs. 1.05-1.15 lakh (ex-showroom).On 31st July 2023, HMSI introduced the new Dio 125 priced at Rs 83,400. It also received the H-Smart tech variant with Rs 91,300 price tag. This TVS Ntorq 125 and Suzuki Access 125 rival comes in with attractive colour options and draws its power via the same engine that also powers Honda Activa 125 and Grazia 125.Honda is offering a 10-year warranty package, which includes three years of standard warranty along with extension of seven years on this new Dio 125 scooter. Bookings for this 125cc Dio scooter have already started with deliveries expected to commence soon across the country. In July 2023, HMSI also expanded its network presence to Bihar. The company inaugurated a new dealership in Purnia (Bihar) and a BigWing in Cuttack (Odisha). More

Honda new bike teased for IndiaHonda could use an existing brand name for the new bike, something similar to the strategy used for Shine 100Every year during the festive season, most 2W OEMs introduce new or updated products. It’s when consumer sentiments are at an all-time high. There is increased willingness to spend on big-ticket items like bike and cars.In case of Honda, one of the upcoming products is a new motorcycle. Scheduled to debut on August 02, the new bike’s displacement could be in the range of 150cc to 180cc. Honda already has popular products in this space such as Unicorn 160, X-Blade and CB Hornet 2.0.Speculating Honda’s New 150cc-180cc Bike: What’s in Store for Riders?If Honda chooses to go with an existing brand name, the options include Shine, X-Blade  and SP. These are currently among the popular commuter bikes in the country. For a long time, Honda’s X-Blade has been crumbling in terms of sales. Numbers hardly cross double digits and often sees single digits and even zero.Given that sporty 160cc street bikes are seeing new entrants and updates, Honda could cash in from a new vehicle. Honda has dropped first teaser. It shows a motorcycle with with chunky proportions. It is less likely to be a scooter as it boasts a long exhaust pipe. Which is a motorcycle trait.Honda is only showing tail light signature, which could very well be an evolved X-Blade’s defining element. It even mentions “Get ready to leave behind a trail of awe”. Outgoing X-Blade already features slightly crossover-ish design attributes. It even has a fancy tail light signature resembling a Batwing.Outgoing model already carries a lot more flamboyance in comparison to other commuter bikes from Honda. LED headlamps, sporty graphics, layered fuel tank, long and wide comfortable seat, premium chrome muffler cover and sporty tail light.Balancing Style Formats: SP125 vs. 160cc/180cc Honda BikesThere is a possibility of this as well. If it is an SP125, this new bike will be sharing much of the hardware with outgoing model. It will be interesting to see how Honda achieves a balance between the distinct style formats of its 125cc and 160cc / 180cc bikes.In case Honda’s new bike is a 160cc model, it will utilize the same 162.71 cc engine as outgoing X-Blade. It generates 13.67 bhp of max power and 14.7 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. Some of the key highlights of X-Blade include a maintenance-free battery, single-channel ABS, a fully digital instrument panel and more.This new bike is less likely to be a 180cc bike. But if it is, it will share Hornet’s engine developing 17.26 PS and 16.1 Nm, mated to a 5-speed gearbox. Because this new bike has halogen turn indicators, we doubt it is a 180cc grade like Hornet 2.0 is.Honda has under-delivered to massive hypes before. So, there is a possibility of this being a very minuscule update to one of its existing motorcycles as well. Launch or unveil could happen on August 2nd. More

2024 Honda X-ADV launchedThe 745cc parallel twin engine on 2024 Honda X-ADV is in the same tune as before – Makes 58 bhp and 69 NmThe radicalisation of the scooter segment is no new story. We have seen multiple new genres within scooter segments. One of utmost appeal seems to be the ADV scooter segment which has seen more entrants now, than ever before. Honda is no stranger to ADV scooters.Honda’s creme-de-la-creme ADV scooter X-ADV with a 750cc parallel-twin engine is now brought to MY2024. Honda’s new naming strategy dictates this scooter as 2024 X-ADV. Even though India will never witness X-ADV launch, it is an interesting proposition nonetheless. Let’s take a look at what’s new and what’s not.2024 Honda X-ADV with Travel pack2024 Honda X-ADV – The ultimate ADV of scootersFor starters, there is not a lot new with 2024 Honda X-ADV. Except for the new colours, of-course. It now gets a red and silver combination colourway that Honda calls Grand Prix Red. This combination gets Red majorly in the front and rear subframe and other areas get Black. Iridium Grey Metallic is an interesting colour with Grey base shade and neon yellow highlights.Matte Ballistic Matte Metallic is the stealthiest of the bunch with a Black shade throughout and silver engine casing. Lastly, we have Paco Blue which looks the most intriguing off the bunch, it has a faded teal shade and the rear subframe gets Black shade. Only Paco Blue and Matte Ballistic Black Metallic shade gets USD forks in gold shade.2024 Honda X-ADV FeaturesWhile Iridium Grey Metallic and Grand Prix Red get Black USD front forks. Speaking of forks, the 2024 Honda X-ADV gets USD front forks and a rear mono-shock unit. It is a non-step-through scooter with a spine in the middle. This is where the fuel tank is and it liberates 21L of underseat storage and a smart top box is optional too.The most striking scooter in the world?In terms of design, 2024 Honda X-ADV is macho and packs a lot of muscle. It has a smart front fairing that should provide decent wind protection. Fascia has a dual LED headlight, sharp LED DRLs, and a lot of mean attitude. Handlebar is upright and ensures a comfortable seating posture.Honda offers ride-by-wire throttle with five riding modes namely Standard, Sport, Rain, Gravel and User. Last option allows customisation as well. Just like Honda Activa and recent Dio, X-ADV also packs a smart key. Honda offers 17” front and 15” rear wire-spoke wheels and dual disc setup at front and single disc setup at the rear.2024 Honda X-ADV ColoursThe engine is a 745cc parallel-twin unit with 4 valves per cylinder. This engine packs around 58 bhp of power and 69 Nm of torque. Transmission is a 6-speed dual clutch transmission that enables manual shifts via trigger shifters in the left switchgear. Pricing in the UK starts from around GBP 11,199 which roughly translates to Rs. 11.77 lakh in today’s conversion rates. If you wanna wait to buy it in India, chances are probably close to 0%. More

New Honda Monkey 125cc Lightning EditionHonda sells a number of small bikes and scooters, with Monkey being one of the most likeable and practicalHonda Monkey 125cc bike is quite popular in Japan and several international markets as well. In Thailand, Honda has launched a new Lightning edition. This is primarily a visually upgraded version, featuring a new colour scheme and other cosmetic touch-ups.With its exclusive profile, Honda Monkey Lightning edition commands premium pricing. It is available at a starting price of TBH 108,900, which is approximately Rs 2.59 lakh. In comparison, the standard Monkey variant costs THB 99,700 (approx. Rs 2.38 lakh). Honda also offers Monkey Easter Egg edition, priced at THB 109,900 (approx. Rs 2.62 lakh).New Honda Monkey 125cc Lightning EditionHonda Monkey Lightning edition featuresOne of the key highlights of Honda Monkey Lightning edition is the bright yellow colour shade in glossy finish. The unique ways in which the yellow shade is applied across the bike is another major draw. The yellow bits seem to have been applied in a random fashion. But still, the bike comes across as absolutely stunning and adorable. It’s probably the genius of Monkey’s design that allows it to retain its magic in any shade one throws at it.Monkey Lightning edition has the yellow shade on the USD forks, fuel tank, side panels, swingarm and twin rear shock absorbers. What makes the bike even more alluring is the liberal use of chrome. Front and rear fenders, headlamp, instrument console, brake and clutch levers, turn indicators and rear tail lamp are all done in chrome.New Honda Monkey 125cc Lightning EditionAnother interesting update is the checkered seat with quilted pattern. Stickering work on the fuel tank and side panels is also commendable. These have a contrasting shade and complement the bike’s overall look and feel.In terms of hardware, Honda Monkey Lightning edition is largely the same as other variants. It is powered by a 125cc engine that generates 9.2 bhp of max power and 11 Nm of peak torque. While earlier Monkey had a 4-speed gearbox, the current version comes with a 5-speed gearbox. Rated fuel efficiency under test conditions is 70.5 kmpl.Honda Monkey has disc brakes at both ends, with ABS at front. Fuel tank capacity of 5.6 litres seems adequate for urban commutes. Monkey also has capabilities to take on off-road tracks, as evident with the raised front fender and block pattern tyres.Honda Monkey India launch prospectsWhile Honda Monkey seems to have potential for Indian market as well, it is unlikely that it will be launched here anytime soon. The experience with Navi could be a factor in not introducing the Monkey in India. However, Monkey has a completely distinct and adorable profile in comparison to Navi. Enthusiasts around the world are enjoying the unique riding experience made possible by Monkey. One can only hope that Monkey makes it to our shores as well. More

2023 Honda Dio 125 ScooterHonda has launched the new and updated Dio 125cc scooter in India – Offered in 2 variantsNew Honda Dio boasts a range of impressive features that make it a standout in its class. With sleek position lamp and bold graphics, this head-turning vehicle is sure to grab attention on road. Equipped with dual outlet muffler and tail lamp with split grab rail, Dio combines style with functionality.Safety is top priority with Dio. It features a wave disk brake for responsive and reliable stopping power. Alloy wheels not only enhance appearance but also contribute to stability and performance. Additionally, Dio is equipped with latest Honda Smart Key technology, allowing for convenient unlocking and locking without need for a physical key.2023 Honda Dio 125 ScooterExploring the 2023 Honda Dio’s Impressive FeaturesUnderneath its stylish exterior, Dio houses a powerful 125cc PGM-FI engine with Honda Enhanced Smart Power (eSP). This engine incorporates friction reduction and improved combustion, resulting in efficient performance and reduced emissions. Honda ACG Starter ensures smooth and silent engine starts, while improvised tumble flow technology enhances fuel efficiency.Dio is packed with smart features that enhance riding experience. Fully digital meter provides real-time information at a glance, keeping riders informed and connected. Idling Stop System helps conserve fuel by automatically shutting off engine when idle, and Side Stand with Engine Inhibitor ensures safe operation by preventing accidental starts.2023 Honda Dio 125 ScooterFor added convenience, Dio offers ample storage space with an 18L compartment and front pocket. Dual function switch allows for easy access to seat and external fuel lid, while Two Lid Fuel Opening System simplifies refueling.Safety and control are further enhanced with Dio’s Combi-Brake System (CBS) with Equalizer, which distributes braking force evenly for stable and controlled stops. Telescopic suspension with 12-inch front wheel and 3-step adjustable rear suspension provide a comfortable and smooth ride, even on uneven roads. With high ground clearance and mapped SMART ECU and immobilizer system, Dio offers safe and secure riding experience.2023 Honda Dio 125 ScooterColour Your Ride: Attractive Options in the 2023 Honda DioDio comes in a variety of attractive colour options, including Pearl Siren Blue, Pearl Deep Ground Gray, Pearl Night Star Black, Mat Marvel Blue Metallic, Mat Axis Gray Metallic, Mat Sangria Red Metallic, and Sports Red. This allows riders to choose colour that best suits their personal style and preferences.Dio also comes with a 10-year warranty package, giving riders peace of mind and long-term reliability. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new enthusiast, Honda Dio combines style, performance, and advanced features to elevate your riding experience. Stay tuned for part 2, where we will delve deeper into Dio’s specifications and performance capabilities.New instrument screenTailored to Your Needs: Choosing the Perfect Honda Dio Variant for YouHonda Dio offers two variants to cater to different rider preferences: Standard variant and Smart variant. Standard variant comes with a price of Rs. 83,400 (ex-showroom Delhi) and provides a comprehensive range of features, making it an excellent choice for riders looking for style and performance. On other hand, Smart variant, priced at Rs. 91,300 (ex-showroom Delhi), offers all features of Standard variant along with advanced technologies like Smart Find, Smart Unlock, Smart Start, and Smart Safe. These smart features enhance convenience, accessibility, and security during riding experience. With these options, riders can choose Dio variant that best suits their needs and budget, ensuring a satisfying and personalized riding experience. More

MY2023 Honda Dio LaunchedOnly the new top-spec H-Smart, DLX trims on MY2023 Honda Dio gets this new blue-backlit instrument screen with smart keyThere are quite of few teasers on Honda’s Indian social media handles hinting a radical new product. There was an engine sound in the background too, hinting a bigger motorcycle engine. Honda’s marketing team had put a space between the two V in revv word, hinting a new product starting with the name V.Company teased a new instrument cluster with a side stand cut-off feature with a picture of a cruiser motorcycle. With such anticipation fuelling discussions, Honda has revealed the product. And it is an updated Dio scooter for MY2023.MY2023 Honda Dio Digital Upgrade: It’s All About the ScreensHonda’s newest Dio gets a ton of new features and some of them were on offer with Activa. That said, the new instrument cluster is of primary importance. There are two digital LCD displays with MY2023 Honda Dio. In contrast, MY2023 Activa doesn’t even get one.Only the Activa 125 gets the smaller LCD screen, shared with MY2023 Dio. There is a new rectangular display that packs Blue backlighting. It looks bigger than Hornet 2.0’s instrument cluster. The Dio Scooter Screen is one where Speed, Tacho, and Side-Stand Indicator meet their Blue-Backlit destiny.MY2023 Honda Dio FeaturesThere is a separate cluster on top of this new display that shows telltale signs like engine service, battery and smart key indicator. There is a three-step ECO indicator too, and all of these could have fit into the new display easily. Below this new display, the same old square-ish positive LCD screen remains as is. Reminds me of TVS Ntorq XT’s tacky execution.This square screen shows time, odometer, and fuel level along with distance to empty, average mileage and real-time fuel efficiency. Again, all of these could have easily fit in the new blue-backlit display that MY2023 Honda Dio is packing. To make this instrument area a lot cleaner. We could see this new instrument screen with other Honda scooters as well.Screen Wars: MY2023 Honda Dio Scooter FeaturesHonda is not offering side stand cutoff as a standard feature even with its new top-spec H-Smart trim. It is optional across the trim levels. Only top-spec H-Smart gets Activa’s new smart key which supports keyless entry along with alloy wheels, a smart switch, battery indicator, and smart key indicator.MY2023 Honda Dio SpecsBoth H-Smart and DLX get LED headlights and this new instrument screen. All trims feature an external fuel filler lid, a front pocket, a silent starter and the likes. Engine is the same across all trims which is a 110cc generating 7.75 bhp of power and 9.03 Nm of torque.There is no disc brake option with MY2023 Honda Dio yet. Front gets a 12” tyre and rear gets 10” one. Pricing starts from Rs. 68,625 (ex-sh, Delhi) for base model. If one craves all the bells and whistles we mentioned in this post, they have to shell out Rs. 77,712 (ex-sh, Delhi) for the top-spec H-Smart trim. More

Honda CB350 new white colourJust like in India, Honda H’ness CB350 has emerged as a popular choice in Japanese market as wellHonda sells the CB350 in Japan as GB350. Its sportier version, CB350 RS, is sold as GB350 S. Both these bikes have been updated with new colour options. They now comply with the stricter emission norms in Japan.With the updates, prices of both bikes have been increased by 11,000 yen each (approx. Rs 6,300). GB350 new price is 561,000 yen (~ Rs 3.22 lakh), whereas GB350 S will now retail at 605,000 yen (~ Rs 3.47 lakh). In India, CB350 starts at Rs 2,09,857, with on-road price of Rs 2,38,807. CB350 RS starts at Rs 2,14,856, with on-road price of Rs 2,44,266.Honda CB350 new white colour2023 Honda GB350, GB350 S new coloursAs compared to India, colour options for CB350 and CB350 RS are entirely different in Japan. Not only are the colour options fewer in numbers, they also seem to lack the vibrancy of the colour palette used in India. Honda GB350 gets a new colour option of Matte Pearl Glare White. The white shade covers the fuel tank and side panels.Rest of the bike uses a mix of chrome finish and blacked-out parts. Chrome highlights are evident on the headlamp casing, clutch and front brake levers and engine casing. The exhaust pipe is entirely done in chrome. GB350 has brown seat for all colour variants. It helps achieve a classy appeal, although some folks may describe it as a cluttered look. Colour options that will be continued for GB350 include Matte Pearl Morion Black and Matte Jeans Blue Metallic.Honda CB350 new white colourGB350 S variant gets a new colour option of Puco Blue. The shade is applied on the fuel tank. Rest of the bike has a blacked-out profile in most parts. Chrome highlights are limited to the hand levers, rear view mirrors, engine casing and exhaust. The bike has black seat across all variants. Puco Blue shade looks attractive and seems to have a universal appeal. Colour options to be continued for GB350 S include Pearl Deep Mud Gray and Gunmetal Black Metallic.No mechanical upgradesApart from being compliant with the stricter emission norms in Japan, Honda GB350 and GB350 S do not get any other upgrades. Powering the bikes is a 348cc air-cooled, single cylinder engine that makes 20 PS of max power and 29 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. The bikes have telescopic forks at front and dual rear shock absorbers. Both ends have disc brakes, with dual-channel ABS as standard.In Indian market, Honda CB350 and CB350 RS primarily rival popular 350cc offerings from Royal Enfield. They haven’t dented Royal Enfield’s sales, but have created a niche fan following of their own. Honda CB350 and CB350 RS will now have to deal with new competitors such as Triumph Speed 400 and Harley-Davidson X440. More