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    2021 Honda CBR150R Debuts With Updates – New Yamaha R15 Rival

    2021 Honda CBR150RWhile Honda CBR150R makes less power Yamaha R15, the former makes more torque than the latter
    Honda has launched the updated CBR150R in Malaysia at a starting price of RM12,499 (approx. INR 2.21 lakh). Like the global market, the entry-level superbike from Honda competes against Yamaha YZF R15 in Malaysia. The updated CBR150R went on sale in Indonesia in January earlier this year.
    The latest iteration of the fully-faired motorcycle gets a host of updates over its predecessor both in terms of styling and specifications. Starting with its design, CBR150R could be mistaken for the larger CBR250R at first glance as most of the design cues of the former are borrowed from its larger quarter-litre sibling.
    Design & Features
    Upfront, CBR150R gets a similar set of dual-beam LED headlights like the quarter-litre sports bike. Design elements such as a sharper front fairing, a muscular fuel tank and a neater tail section also mimic CBR250R.
    Other styling highlights include a split-style seat with a raised tail section, arrow-shaped split tail-lamps, upswept exhaust canister, exposed rear subframe and a clip-on handlebar. Overall, the motorcycle looks more aggressive than its predecessor.
    2021 Honda CBR150R
    For the Malaysian market, the latest iterations of the sports bike will be available in two colour options namely Matte Charcoal Grey Metallic and Candy Scintillate Red. In terms of features, 2021 CBR150R is equipped with a fully digital LCD instrument console that reads out information from the gear position indicator and fuel consumption meter.
    Mechanical Specs
    Coming to its hardware, suspension setup of CBR150R consists of upside-down telescopic forks at front and a preload-adjustable mono-shock at rear. The gold-finished front forks from Showa also enhance the overall look of the motorcycle.
    Braking duties are carried out by single rotors at front and rear assisted by a dual-channel ABS as standard. It tips the weighing scales at 139kg which is 2 kilos lighter than its nearest rival.
    2021 Honda CBR150R
    Powering the updated CBR150R is the same 149 cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder DOHC engine which delivers a slightly less output. The Malaysia-spec CBR150R produces 16.09 bhp at 9,000 rpm and a peak torque of 13.7 Nm at 7,000 rpm which is 1 bhp and 0.7 Nm less than the Indonesia-spec model. Honda has equipped CBR150R with its PGM-Fi fuel-injection system and eSP technology.
    This unit is coupled with a six-speed gearbox with a slipper and assist clutch with a chain drive which not only reduces rear-wheel locking and hopping during aggressive downshifts but also brings down lever effort by 15 percent. Launch of the new CBR150R in India looks highly doubtful at the moment. More

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    New Honda CB200X First Batch Owners Take Delivery

    Honda CB200X Delivery Starts. Image – Ride With TusharHonda CB200X comes in with superior technology and dynamic performance setting a trend in the 180-200cc segment
    Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India recently launched the new CB200X adventure tourer. Priced at Rs 1.44 lakhs, this new CB200X is the affordable adventure Honda motorcycle which will rival the likes of Hero XPulse 200. Deliveries of the motorcycle have now started in select cities.
    Presented in three colours of Pearl Nightstar Black, Matte Selene Silver Metallic and Sports Red, the Honda CB200X, true to its adventurous stance, borrows inspiration from Honda CB500X with a taller windscreen, knuckle guards and bash plate.
    Features and Equipment
    Honda CB200X boasts of a sporty and muscular design and carries efficient riding ergonomics. It offers the rider an upright riding position with raised and swaged handle bars, a comfortable split step seat and visor that not only protects the rider but also enhances aerodynamics and reduces wind resistance.
    At 810mm, seat height is the same as that seen on the Hornet 2.0. Knuckle guards with integrated LED blinkers, an LED headlamp unit and alloy wheels are fitted with special tread pattern tyres measuring 110mm front and 140mm rear. In terms of dimensions, the Honda CB200X stands 2,035mm in length, 843mm in width and 1,248mm in height with kerb weight of 1,248mm, ground clearance of 167mm and fuel tank capacity of 12 liters. Watch the first owner of new Honda CB200X taking delivery in the video below by JS Xtreme.
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    The CB200X also gets a blue backlit LCD instrument cluster, also borrowed from the Hornet 2.0 display information on gear position, digital clock and service due indicator. It is however, devoid of Bluetooth connectivity and navigation, a feature which is vital in today’s age and which is available on its rivals.
    Engine, Braking and Suspension
    The new Honda CB2000X gets its power via the same engine that powers the Hornet 2.0. This 184.4 cc, single cylinder, BSVI, PGM-FI engine is rated at 17.23 hp power at 8,500 rpm and 16.1 Nm torque at 6,000rpm. The engine is paired to a 5 speed gearbox.
    Based on a diamond-type steel frame, the CB00X gets golden upside down forks in the front, 276mm disc in the front and a 220mm disc at the rear with ABS and monoshock at the rear offer better handling and comfort over long distance rides. Engine start switch offers convenience during shorter stops while hazard switch is ideal for both emergency stops and lower visibility conditions.
    Honda is offering a special 6 year warranty package on the CB200X which includes 3 years standard and 3 years optional extended warranty. The Honda CB200X is on sale via the company’s regular dealerships and not through the BigWing dealerships.
    In our market, Honda CB200X will primarily take on Hero XPulse 200 while it will also compete with Royal Enfield Himalayan and KTM 250 Adventure. At Rs 1.44 lakhs, the Honda CB200X is more expensive as compared to the Hero XPulse 200 (Rs 1.20 lakhs) but cheaper than the RE Himalayan priced at Rs 2.05-2.13 lakh. More

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    2022 Honda CB500X, CBR500R, CB500F Debuts With New Features

    2022 Honda CB500XNew components of all these models are sourced from larger siblings Honda CB650R and CBR650R
    Honda will be introducing a series of upgrades on its CB500 lineup in Europe. These include the naked streetfighter CB500F, the supersport CBR500R and the adventure tourer CB500X. Out of these, only CB500X is available in the Indian market which was launched earlier this year.
    These motorcycles have been hugely popular across Europe. The Japanese brand claims to have sold over 106,000 units of CB500 ever since they were launched back in 2013. Out of these, CB500F accounts for nearly half of those sales. The track-friendly CBR500R has accounted for almost 18 percent of the total sales.
    On the other hand, the adventurous CB500X accounts for 35 percent of the total sales volume. The new set of updates primarily focus on the dynamics of the motorcycles which involves its suspension and braking setup. Additionally, minor updates have also been made to their powertrain.
    New Riding Dynamics
    For starters, Honda has equipped the 500cc motorcycle with new Showa 41mm SFF-BP inverted forks at front which has been derived from their more powerful middleweight siblings CB650R and CBR650R. This is said to improve ride and handling of the bikes.
    2022 Honda CB500X
    Stopping power has been enhanced with new dual 296mm wavy front disc brakes powered by radially mounted Nissin calipers. Handling has also improved thanks to lighter Y-spoke aluminum wheels on CB500F and CBR500R.
    The adventure tourer gets larger 19-inch light wheels at front and also receives longer front suspension travel to assist it while traveling on undulated paths. Further, Honda has added a new and lighter swingarm which is said to be stiffer rotationally on all three motorcycles. This has resulted in improved handling and cornering performance, by adding more lateral flexibility to the swingarm.
    Powertrain Specs
    Coming to the powertrain, all three bikes are still powered by the same 471cc parallel-twin motor which continues to produce 47 bhp and 43.2 Nm of peak torque. However, after the latest update, this unit now features new PGM-FI settings to further enhance both torque feel and overall character. The engine is coupled with a 6-speed transmission with an assist and slipper clutch.
    2022 Honda CBR500R
    Honda has also made updates to the colour schemes on the three bikes. For 2022, the naked CB500F will be available in three paint schemes including Pearl Dusk Yellow, Pearl Smoky Gray and Mat Axis Gray Metallic. The fully-faired CBR500R will be offered in a single colour option- Mat Gunpowder Black Metallic with new graphics signifying the brand’s racing heritage.
    The CB500 adventure bike will also be available in the same colour as CBR500R. In addition, it also receives Honda’s classic Grand Prix Red. This set of updates are not expected to be carried forward to the India-spec CB500X anytime soon. CB500X is currently priced at Rs 6.87 lakh (ex-showroom). More

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    Honda Two Wheeler Sales Aug 2021 – Activa, Dio, Shine, CB350, Unicorn

    New Honda ActivaHonda has registered an 18% growth MoM in August 2021 with 4,30,683 unit sales
    Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) has reported August 2021 sales figures. Sales stood at 4,30,683 units in the past month. This included 4,01,469 units in domestic markets while 29,214 units were exported.
    When compared to same month last year, HMSI has posted a sales decline of 6.25% in domestic market YoY. When compared to July 2021, MoM sales increase was 17.9%. In July 2021 HMSI posted sales of 3,84,920 units (that includes 3,40,420 domestic sales and 44,500 units exported).
    Best selling Honda two wheelers for the month include the likes of Activa, Dio, CB Shine, Unicorn, Grazia, Dream, HNess CB350, etc. Total sales in the past month were however a 3 percent decline as against 4,43,969 units sold in August 2020.
    Key Highlights in August
    In the past month, HMSI expanded its networks with inauguration of BigWing in Bhubaneshwar from where the company will retail its mid-size motorcycle segment. Honda’s TopLine dealership in metros showcases the company’s premium motorcycle range that includes models such as the H’ness CB350, CB350RS, CB500X, CBR650R, CB650R, CBR1000RR-R Fireblade, CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, adventure tourer Africa Twin Adventure Sports and flagship model Gold Wing Tour. BigWing dealerships in cities retails the company’s mid-size range of motorcycles.
    Honda Two Wheeler Sales – Aug 2021
    Semi-conductor shortage has affected supplies which could relate to longer waiting periods especially during the auspicious days of the festive season. The company is in talks with suppliers to avoid any such negative impact while are also communicating with customers who are awaiting delivery.
    Rising costs of raw material like steel and precious metals has also caused HMSI to increase prices of its models. However the company is trying to reduce cost burden to be passed on to the consumer which could adversely affect demand.
    New Launches
    HMSI introduced the new model in the 180-200cc segment. The CB200X launch was a virtual event in view of the current pandemic situation in the country. CB200X is priced at Rs 1.44 lakh and is ideally suited for city and highway touring.
    The CB200X launch marks the start of the festive season in the country but also comes in at a time when there is a supply chain crisis being experienced across the auto industry. The CB 200X is powered by a 184.4cc single cylinder, air cooled engine that also powers the Hornet 2.0 on which it offers 17.23 hp power at 8500 rpm and 16.1 Nm torque at 6000 rpm.
    Expansion Plans
    At launch of the new CB200X, the company announced that they aim to have around 7,000 customer touch points across the country over next 3 years. HMSI currently has around 6,000 sales infrastructure that includes dealerships and sales and service networks. Demand has been rising especially in Tier II and Tier III towns making it imperative to expand networks. More

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    Honda Sales, Exports July 2021 – Activa, CB Shine, Dio, Grazia, CB350

    Image for reference.HMSI witnessed a 10.05 percent increase in domestic sales in July 2021 while exports grew 263.24 percent
    Honda domestic sales stood at 3,40,420 units in July 2021, a growth of 10.05 percent from 3,09,332 units sold in the same month a year ago. Exports on the other hand surged 263.24 percent to 44,500 units.
    Honda Activa tops Domestic Sales
    Topping the domestic sales charts was Honda Activa. Along with CB Shine, these were the only two vehicles in the company lineup to cross the 1 lakh unit sales mark last month. Honda Activa scooter sales increased 37.10 percent YoY from 1,18,859 units sold in July 2020 to 1,62,956 units sold in the past month. The Activa line-up currently includes two models of Activa 6G and Activa 125 and currently commands a 47.87 percent share in the company lineup.
    At No. 2 was CB Shine with 30.53 percent sales growth to 1,16,128 units in July 2021 up from 88,969 units sold in July 2020. MoM sales also increased substantially by 61.58 percent over 71,869 units sold in June 2021.
    Sales of Dio scooter dipped in July 2021 by 44.66 percent to 20,604 units, down from 37,233 units sold in July 2020. Domestic sales on a MoM basis however increased 8.54 percent over 18,983 units sold in June 2021.
    Honda Sales, Exports July 2021 vs July 2020 (YoY)
    Even as sales of Unicorn increased 7.53 percent to 1,735 units sold in July 2021, that of Grazia and Dream dipped 58.10 percent and 72.25 percent respectively to 4,175 units and 5,564 units in July 2021. Each of these three models in the company lineup posted positive MoM growth.
    Of the new CBR 650, launched in April this year, the company sold 27 units in July 2021. Honda CB650R naked bike and updated CBR650R are priced at Rs 8.67 lakh and Rs 8.88 lakh respectively. HMSI also saw de-growth in case of Livo, X-Blade and the Africa Twin in a YoY basis while MoM sales of these increased substantially.
    Honda Dio tops Export Charts
    Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India had the Navi as its best seller in export markets. 9,230 units of Navi were exported. Exports of the Dio scooter stood at 7,618 units, up 371.41 percent over 1,616 units exported in July 2020. MoM exports of the Dio also increased substantially over 5,640 units shipped in June 2021.
    Honda Sales, Exports July 2021 vs June 2021 (MoM)
    Honda CB Shine and X-Blade noted the highest YoY growth which stood at 1,325.44 percent and 4,854.86 percent respectively. Exports of these two models were at 6,443 units and 7,135 units in July 2021. In June 2021, exports had stood at 4,466 units and 2,825 units respectively, relating to a 44.27 percent and 152.57 percent growth.
    Honda Unicorn 160 exports also increased 56.25 percent to 1,200 units in July 2021 up from 768 units shipped in July 2020 while MoM exports dipped 10.71 percent over 1,344 units shipped in June 2021. Honda also shipped 1,000 units of Aviator and 1,401 units of Grazia in the past month along with 2,604 units of Hornet 160R and 3,236 units of Dream. Each of these models also showed off positive MoM growth in export markets while the newly launched CB350 has seen a 164.47 percent MoM growth to 841 units in July 2021 up from 318 units exported in June 2021. More

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    2021 Honda XRE 300cc ADV Motorcycle Debuts – RE Himalayan Rival

    2021 Honda XRE 300In Brazilian market, Honda XRE 300 primarily rivals the likes of Yamaha XTZ 250 and the Royal Enfield Himalayan
    Rivalry between Honda XRE 300, Royal Enfield Himalayan and Yamaha XTZ 250 is pretty tough in Brazil, although XRE leads in sales. However, if we look at overall two-wheeler market in Brazil, it’s Yamaha that dominates.
    Taking about Honda XRE 300, the 2021 model has been launched in Brazil. Converted in Indian Rupee, the bike is available at a starting price of approximately INR 3.48 lakh. Higher variants like the XRE Adventure and XRE Rally will cost around Rs 3.58 lakh. XRE 300 is preferred for its toughness, reliability and easy maintenance. Price of Royal Enfield Himalayan in Brazil is in similar range.
    2021 Honda XRE 300 styling and features
    As far as the core silhouette is concerned, Honda XRE 300 looks familiar to Africa Twin. Some key features of Honda XRE 300 include a pointy nose, dual-LED headlamp, long suspension travel at the front, ergonomically placed handlebars, sleek LED turn indicators, sculpted fuel tank, and Pro-Link rear suspension.
    XRE 300 is equipped with a digital instrument console that displays a range of information such as speedometer, odometer, fuel level gauge, clock, and tachometer. The screen is positioned at a slanted angle, which makes it easier for the rider to view it without taking their eyes off the road.
    2021 Honda XRE 300
    Honda has ensured that XRE 300 offers a comfortable riding stance. The centre of gravity has been perfectly balanced to ensure better control and handling. The raised seat position is another factor that ensures optimal comfort for both rider and pillion.
    2021 Honda XRE 300 engine and specs
    Powering the bike is a 291.6 cc single-cylinder, DOHC, liquid-cooled motor that is capable of generating 26 hp of max power and 27 Nm of peak torque. The motor has been especially tuned to reduce emissions and vibration level. Users can expect optimal performance and comfort across varied terrains.
    2021 Honda XRE 300
    The engine is equipped with FlexOne technology, which allows an easy switch between gasoline and ethanol. When running on ethanol, the bike produces slightly more power and torque. Engine is mated to a 5-speed transmission. Top speed of 2021 Honda XRE 300 is 135 kmph.
    2021 Honda XRE 300
    Spoke wheels ooze out their classy charm and also work to improve the bike’s off-roading capabilities. The bike utilizes dual-purpose knobby tyres, making it suitable for both on-road and off-road tracks. It has 90/91-21 front and 120/80-18 rear tyres. Braking duties are performed by 256 mm disc at the front and 220 mm disc at the rear. Dual-channel ABS is offered as standard with 2021 Honda XRE 300.
    In terms of safety, the bike is equipped with a guide to prevent the drive chain from coming loose. A chain protector has also been included for added protection.
    2021 Honda XRE 300
    It is not certain if and when Honda will launch XRE 300 in Indian market. The name ‘XRE 300’ was registered in India in 2017. However, beyond that, there are no updates about India launch plans. If launched in India, Honda XRE 300 will rival the likes of Royal Enfield Himalayan and KTM 390 Adventure. More

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    Honda CB200X Adventure Motorcycle Launch Price Rs 1.44 Lakh

    Honda CB200XHonda CB200X competes against other entry-level adventure tourers such as Xpulse 200 as well as Royal Enfield Himalayan and KTM 250 Adventure
    Honda has its new adventure motorcycle CB200X in India today. The bike is based on the same platform and powertrain as Hornet 2.0. Launch price of the new Honda CB200X is Rs 1,44,500, ex-sh, Gurgaon.
    Like most entry-level adventure tourers, CB200X is a road-biased machine with some moderate off-roading capabilities. Unlike the other adventure tourers from Honda such as CB500X and Africa Twin, the CB200X will be sold through the company’s regular chain of dealerships.
    Honda CB200X Brochure Specs Colours
    Design
    New Honda CB200X gets a similar angular, all-LED V-shaped headlamp as seen in Hornet 2.0. Other highlights include a black windscreen, a front-heavy faired body, a wider handlebar, engine protector and knuckle guards which housed turn indicators. Three colours are on offer with new CB200X. These are Red, Silver and Black.
    Most of the bike’s design cues are inspired by the CX-02 Concept revealed earlier in India. The tail section of the bike also gets LED lamps. It gets split-style seats and split pillion grab rails. The seats are contoured for better comfort over longer commutes.
    Honda CB200X
    Features & Hardware
    In terms of equipment, the bike offers features such as an all-digital instrument cluster which is compatible with RoadSync tech for smartphone connectivity and navigation as well via Bluetooth headphones. It also gets the same golden-coloured front forks as seen in Hornet 2.0. Other attributes include high ground clearance, a long-travel suspension, high saddle height and a single-channel ABS.
    Honda CB200X Brochure Specs
    Speaking of hardware, it is based on the same chassis as Hornet. The platform is suspended on upside-down forks at front and a preload-adjustable mono-shock at rear. Braking duties will be handled by disc brakes on both wheels.
    Engine Specs
    The wire-spoked 21-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels are shod by knobby dual-purpose tyres for more grip during off-road riding. As mentioned before, CB200X is powered by the same 184.4cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine offered in Hornet 2.0. This motor is capable of generating 17 bhp at 8500rpm and 16.1 Nm of peak torque at 6000rpm while being mated to a 5-speed gearbox.
    Honda CB200X
    Mr. Atsushi Ogata, Managing Director, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. said, “Today, it is my great pleasure to introduce a new motorcycle, inspired by Honda’s legendary CB legacy. Keeping in mind the evolving lifestyle of the Indian youth, the urban explorer – CB200X gives today’s youngsters a riding experience that pushes them to explore more. Built to excite riders, CB200X offers a perfect riding companion for their daily city rides and short weekend getaways beyond the cityscapes.”
    At this price point and specs, CB200X has only one rival in the form of Hero Xpulse 200. It will be interesting to see if Honda offers CB200X a rally kit that makes it more off-road capable just like its nearest competitor. More

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    Honda U-BE Electric Scooter With Single Seat Makes Global Debut

    Honda U-BE Electric ScooterElectric two-wheeler segment in China is far more evolved, as compared to the Indian market
    Honda’s Chinese subsidiary Wuyang Honda has multiple electric two-wheelers in the Chinese market including electric bicycles, electric moped, and electric scooters. The company has recently launched two new products, one of which is U-GO electric scooter. The second product is U-be, which is pretty radical in it design and form.
    Honda U-be electric scooter – key features
    Meant for short city sprints, Honda U-be is a single seat electric scooter. It looks just like a standard electric scooter, but at the rear, the pillion section has been chopped off completely. That leaves the rear wheels in a protruding position. It may take some time to accept the radical design of U-be and to understand that it’s focused more on utility.
    The basic idea is to reduce overall weight of the scooter, so that it can extract more miles from the battery. Honda U-be comes with a large floorboard, which can be used to carry a wide variety of heavy items such as groceries, luggage, etc.
    The scooter has a comfortable upright riding stance. With the large foot space, users can expect optimal comfort and easy mount and dismount. Other key features include anti-theft key lock and USB port.
    Honda U-BE Electric Scooter
    Once the brain adjusts to its radical profile, one can appreciate that this scooter is quite cute indeed. Some key styling bits include trendy headlamp with integrated turn indicators, sharp tail lamp, and comfy, dual-tone saddle with quilted pattern.
    The scooter is equipped with a stylish digital instrument console that displays a range of information such as speed, odometer, mileage, voltage, and battery status. Colour options for U-be include white, grey, red and blue.
    Honda U-be powertrain and specs
    Depending on their needs, customers can choose from three battery packs – 48V-15Ah, 48V-20Ah and 48V-24Ah. Respective mileage for these battery packs is 55km, 70km, and 85km. The scooter utilizes a high-efficiency motor that is low on noise and power consumption.
    Honda U-BE Electric Scooter
    Overall ride dynamics is further enhanced with the high-performance controller. It ensures smooth power supply and takes care of problem areas such as over-voltage, over-current, and over-temperature. Honda U-be can easily tackle slopes of up to 12 degrees. At 54 kg, Honda U-be will be pretty easy to manoeuvre. The only concern that some users can have is that this scooter has max speed of 25 kmph.
    It is unlikely that U-be will be launched in India. Here, the company is planning something different. One of these could be Benly e electric, which was recently spotted undergoing ARAI testing. By 2024, Honda has plans to launch at least three electric two-wheelers in India. More