More stories

  • in

    2021 Honda Rebel 1100 Cruiser Debuts – Gets DCT Automatic Gearbox

    2021 Honda Rebel 1100
    2021 Honda Rebel 1100 Cruiser is one of the few bikes around to be offered with a DCT automatic gearbox

    After intense speculation and rumours, Honda has finally unveiled its flagship cruiser Rebel 1100. Several design renderings have been previously doing rounds on the internet. The cruiser motorcycle has been designed and conceptualised in line with Honda’s new “Relax and Excite” design theme.
    Honda claims that the latest iteration of the premium cruiser is an easy-to-ride motorcycle and will cater to a wide range of audiences. It will be offered in two variants- Rebel 1100 and Rebel 1100 DCT. The cruiser shares its underpinnings and powertrain with Honda Africa Twin.

    Powertrain & Transmission
    It draws its power from a 1084cc Unicam parallel-twin engine (with PGM-Fi) which has a 270° phased crankshaft and uneven firing interval sourced from CRF1100L. This makes for a strong low-end performance.
    It puts out 87 PS of power at 7000rpm and 98Nm of torque at 4750rpm. This is less than the output received at the adventure motorcycle which produces 102 PS of power and 105 Nm of torque. Transmission duties are handled either by a six-speed manual or a DCT automatic gearbox.
    Specs
    Honda Rebel 1100
    Engine
    1084cc liquid-cooled, parallel twin
    Power
    87 PS @ 7000 rpm
    Torque
    98 Nm @ 4750 rpm
    Transmission
    6 MT / 6 DCT
    Front Suspension
    43mm fork; 4.8 inches of travel
    Rear Suspension
    single shock; 3.7 inches of travel
    Front Tyre
    130/70-18
    Rear Tyre
    180/65-16
    Front Brake
    30mm discs
    Rear Brake
    256mm disc
    Wheelbase
    59.8 inches / 1519 mm
    Seat Ht
    27.5 inches / 700
    Kerb Wt
    487 pounds / 220 kgs
    Fuel Tank
    3.6 gallons / 13.62 liters
    Hardware
    Coming to its dynamics, the bike sits on a tubular steel frame which is assisted by 43mm conventional telescopic forks at front and twin Showa shocks with piggyback reservoirs. It rides on 18-inch front and 16-inch rear wheels which derive their stopping power from twin 330mm discs with a four-piston caliper and a single 256mm disc respectively. These are assisted by a dual-channel ABS. Saddle height is extremely low at 700mm and it tips the weighing scales at 220 kg (kerb weight).
    Design & Features on offer
    In terms of styling, it draws inspiration from other members of the Rebel family and influence of a Bobber design is clearly visible on the bike. When it comes to features, it gets an all-LED lighting setup and a single-pod LCD digital instrument display.

    It also receives a bunch of electronic aids such as multiple riding modes (Rain, Sport & User) with a ride-by-wire technology, Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), Cruise Control, 3-level Traction Control and Wheelie Control. Honda has also provided a USC charging slot in the small storage compartment underneath the seat.
    Prices of the new Rebel 1100 have been revealed and have been pegged at USD 9,299 (INR 6.87 lakh) which undercuts Harley-Davidson Iron 1200 and the Forty-Eight by USD 800 (Rs 59,000) and USD 2,000 (Rs 1.48 lakh) respectively in international markets.
    Honda is also offering a number of optional accessories such as a batwing fairing, soft saddlebags with rack and quilted saddles in black and tan. It is yet to be seen whether Honda brings this high-end cruiser to India or not. As of now, there has been no word from Honda whether it will bring any member of the Rebel series in future. More

  • in

    Honda Hornet Repsol And Dio Repsol Launched – Price Up To Rs 2.5k More

    Honda Hornet 2.0 Repsol Edition
    The Honda Hornet 2.0 Repsol and Dio Repsol get their multi-color liveries inspired by the brand’s RC 213V MotoGP bike

    The Honda Hornet 2.0 and Dio receive the famous Repsol racing livery in India to commemorate the two wheeler giant’s 800 MotoGP victories. The Repsol Honda Editions will have limited production run like in the past but Honda did not reveal the number of units it is planning to produce.
    Honda Hornet 2.0 Repsol Edition
    The recently launched Hornet 2.0 embraces the Repsol Honda livery pretty well. Inspired by Honda’s RC 213V MotoGP machine, the motorcycle is swathed in orange with red and black accents. The prominent Repsol branding adorns the fuel tank while the wheels are finished in matching orange. The white belly pan with Honda branding adds a sporty touch as well.
    Honda
    Price Nov 2020 Ex-sh Gurgaon
    Dio Std
    63,907
    Dio DLX
    67,257
    Dio Repsol
    69,757
    Hornet 2.0
    1,26,351
    Hornet 2.0 Repsol
    1,28,351
    There are no mechanical changes. The Honda Hornet 2.0 Repsol Edition continues to be powered by a 184.4 cc air-cooled engine which develops 17 hp and 16.1 Nm of torque. It employs a 5-speed gearbox.
    The mid-premium motorcycle is equipped with LED headlamp and taillight, fully digital instrument console, upside-down front fork with golden finish, monoshock rear suspension, front and rear disc brakes with single-channel ABS, tubeless tyres and so on.
    2020 Honda Dio Repsol Edition
    Honda Dio Repsol Edition
    The Honda Dio Repsol Edition too employs the same color combination but the designers have gone ahead and sprinkled ‘Repsol’ branding all over the scooter’s body panels. Orange dominates the wheels and steering cowl while the grab rails are finished in red.
    Again, the changes are purely cosmetic save for the addition of alloy wheels (regular variants employ contrast colored steel wheels). The automatic scooter employs a recently updated BS6 compliant 110 cc fuel-injected motor which has 7.65 hp and 9 Nm on store. Transmission is a CVT.
    Feature highlights include engine start-stop switch, pass switch, side-stand indicator with engine cut-off, telescopic front suspension, external fuel filler lid, adjustable rear suspension, on-board diagnostic feature, eco indicator, and combi-braking system (CBS).
    Prices
    Of course, the Honda Hornet 2.0 and Dio Repsol editions command a premium over the regular variants. The limited edition version of the street fighter is priced at INR 1,28,351, a premium of INR 2,000. The Dio Repsol retails at INR 69,757, INR 2,500 dearer than the mid-range DLX variant. All prices are ex-showroom, Delhi.
    Honda’s 2020 MotoGP campaign
    With their star rider Marc Marquez out of this season due to injury, Honda’s MotoGP 2020 championship campaign took a serious hit. With one round still to go, the rider’s championship has been wrapped up by Suzuki’s Joan Mir who has been very consistent with his performance through out the season. More

  • in

    Honda CB350 First Month Sales 1,290 Units – 42k RE Classic Sold In Oct 2020

    Honda CB350 BigWing Dealership
    The Honda H’ness CB350 is offered in two variants – DLX and DLX Pro

    Honda Two Wheelers has officially launched their Royal Enfield Classic 350 rival, H’ness CB350 cruiser motorcycle in India. It follows in the footsteps of CB1100 EX and CB750, bearing the same CB silhouette and even though it receives some advanced features, it continues to exude the same old world charm in terms of design.
    In its first month of sales, production of the new Honda CB350 has touched 2,420 units while sales are at 1,290 units. This is nowhere close to rival Classic 350; which managed to sell almost 42,000 units in Oct 2020.
    Honda H’ness CB350 Price and Variants
    The Made-in-India Honda H’ness CB350 will appeal to the mid size motorcycle enthusiasts. Honda H’ness CB350 is offered in two variants of DLX and DLX Pro and priced at Rs.1.85 lakhs and Rs.1.90 lakhs respectively.
    Colours depend on variants with three single tones of Precious Red Metallic, Pearl Night Star Black and Matte Marshall Green Metallic for the DLX variant. The dual tone colours of Pearl Night Star Black with Spear Silver Metallic, Athletic Blue Metallic with Virtuous White and Matte Steel Black Metallic with Matte Massive Grey Metallic are reserved for the DLX Pro trim.
    Image – Abhinav Bhatt
    It gets the latest in terms of features with all LED lights at the front and rear, semi digital infotainment cluster, digital readouts on its two trip meters, odometer, gear position indicator, fuel gauge and range indicator along with average and real time fuel efficiency.
    Features on the DLX Pro also include Bluetooth connectivity with turn by turn navigation, music and calls on control along with Honda Selectable Torque Converter, a first in segment feature. The fuel tank is finished in a dual tone while the H’ness CB350 rides on wider 19 inch front and 18 inch rear tyres offering better on road stability.
    Power and Performance
    The new Honda cruiser bike receives its power via a 350cc, 4 stroke, OHC, single cylinder engine with PGM-FI technology. The engine offers 21 hp power at 5,500 rpm and 30 Nm torque at 3,000 rpm making the CB350 the torquiest motorcycle in its class.
    The engine is mated to a 5 speed gearbox and gets assist and slipper clutch. Suspension is via telescopic fork in the front and twin-shock at the rear. Braking is via 310mm front and 240mm rear disc brakes with dual channel ABS.
    Honda H’ness CB350 is on sale via the company’s Big Wing dealerships. Its competitors will include the Royal Enfield Classic 350, Meteor 350, Jawa Forty Two and Benelli Imperiale 400. More

  • in

    Honda CB350 vs Royal Enfield Classic 350 vs Meteor – Vibration Test

    Vibration Test By Nitin Autoroids
    Which is the motorcycle that offers the lowest vibrations?

    Vibrations from a motorcycle may not matter much for short, occasional rides, but it can have a dramatic impact during long distance touring. It can give you that shaky feeling and make you fatigued as well. If we consider a span of several years, motorcycle vibrations may also result in lower back pain issues. These risk factors make it imperative that we choose a ride that has the least vibration.
    Vibration test – Honda H’Ness CB350 Vs. Meteor 350 Vs. Classic 350
    The most popular cruiser motorcycle in the country is Royal Enfield Classic 350, which is known for its rugged quality and reliable performance. As may be recalled, Royal Enfield motorcycles are also used by the Indian Army in some of the most challenging terrains in the world. Royal Enfield motorcycles are no doubt good, but one common complaint is the significant amount of vibration they generate.
    The company seems to have acknowledged these issues and is in the process of making improvements in its next-gen products. The first of these is Meteor 350 that has significantly less vibration, as compared to Classic 350. We have already seen this in an earlier video.
    But how does Meteor 350 fare against its primary rival, Honda H’Ness CB350? Answer to that question has now been revealed in this new video by Nitin Autoroids, that compares vibration of Honda CB350 vs. Meteor 350 vs. Classic 350.
    [embedded content]
    In this test too, a glass of water (plastic glass) has been used to test vibration. On Honda CB350, the water filled glass remains still on the fuel tank as well as on the rear seat. Results are the same at higher rpm.
    On Meteor 350, the glass remains still when the engine is idling. However, when the rpm is increased, the glass of water starts to move. On Classic 350, the glass experiences significant vibrations. It moves and falls off the rear seat at high rpm. As compared to Classic 350, Honda CB350 and Meteor were able to sustain the glass for much longer duration.
    Vibration test conclusion
    According to the YouTuber, Honda CB350 has the least vibration among the three bikes. At number two is Meteor 350, which had increased vibrations at higher rev speeds. Classic 350 is obviously the last in this test result.
    Disclaimer – It is important to note that although this test methodology seems reliable, it is not a replacement for measuring vibration using specialized tools. The results may vary if proper vibration measurement tools are used. That way, it will also tell us exactly how much vibration is coming from each of these motorcycles. More

  • in

    2021 Honda Scoopy 110cc Scooter Unveiled – Delivers 59 kmpl Mileage

    2021 Honda Scoopy
    2021 Honda Scoopy new generation scooter makes global debut – Has been launched in Indonesia

    One of the popular scooters in Indonesia, Honda Scoopy has sold more than 4.5 million units since the time it was launched in the country in 2010. Honda has now launched the next-gen model that comes with a range of cosmetic upgrades and new features. It is available at a starting price of IDR 19.95 million, approximately INR 1.05 lakh.
    Design and features
    2021 Honda Scoopy is a lot more attractive in comparison to its predecessor. It has been designed in accordance with the styling needs of the fashion conscious young generation. A range of visual enhancements have been incorporated such as the oval shaped headlamp and tail lamp and splashier rear indicators. The new headlamp is also functionally relevant, as it comes with LED projector lighting system.

    Next-gen Honda Scoopy is being offered in four variants, Sporty, Fashion, Stylish and Prestige. Each variant has its unique colour options such as Prestige white and black, Stylish brown and red, Fashion blue and cream and Sporty red and black.
    Talking about comfort and convenience, new Scoopy gets a large 15.4 litre utility storage space beneath the seat. A USB charger has been added to the console box, allowing users to charge their mobile devices without the need for an additional adapter. Other key features include multi-function hook at the front and side stand indicator.
    [embedded content]
    In terms of safety & security, new Scoopy has been equipped with smart keys that offer answer back feature and anti-theft alarm. It also gets tubeless tyres and brake lock lever.
    Scoopy engine
    Powering Honda Scoopy is latest generation 110 cc, SOHC, programmed fuel injection engine that is capable of delivering 9 PS of max power at 7,500 rpm and 9.3 Nm of peak torque at 5,500 rpm. It comes with eSP (enhanced Smart Power), which not only boosts performance but also improves fuel efficiency. The scooter also gets ACG starter, which ensures smooth engine starts without the usual spluttering sound.

    Another great feature is the advanced Idling Stop System (ISS) that turns the engine off when it is idle for more than 3 seconds. To restart, the user just needs to rev the accelerator. New Scoopy comes with a larger fuel tank that can hold 4.2 litres. As per EURO 3 testing standards, new Scoopy can travel 59 km per litre when used with ISS.
    The scooter’s improved performance is also made possible with the new eSAF frame. The new frame offers multiple benefits such as better ergonomics, improved agility to tackle city traffic and lightweight for enhanced fuel efficiency.

    It is not certain if Scoopy will be launched in the Indian market. Honda already has the top selling Activa in its portfolio, so, there’s limited possibility. More

  • in

    Royal Enfield Meteor 350 vs Honda CB350 – Speed Comparison Test

    Image – Abhinav Bhatt
    Is the Royal Enfield Meteor 350 faster than the Honda CB350?

    In the 350 cc segment, there are several options to choose from. Apart from the obvious Classic 350, there’s Honda H’Ness CB350 and recently launched Meteor 350. The latter two is where things may get a bit difficult to decide, since both motorcycles offer superior performance and come with a long list of features.
    To help users make informed choices, YouTuber Abhinav Bhatt has uploaded a new video that details the real world performance difference between Royal Enfield Meteor 350 and Honda CB350.
    Meteor 350 vs. Honda CB350 acceleration, speed test
    For this comparative analysis, Abhinav chose to ride the Meteor 350 and asked his colleague to ride the CB350. The primary idea was to test the performance of these motorcycles in 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th gear. The test was conducted on an open highway with limited traffic.
    In second gear, both bikers started accelerating from a speed of 20 kmph. It took Honda CB350 just a few seconds to race ahead of Meteor. The latter hit the speed limiter at 70-75 kmph, whereas CB350 achieved 80 kmph in second gear.
    [embedded content]
    In the next round, both motorcycles started at 30 kmph in third gear. For some distance, both bikes were neck and neck at a speed of around 80 kmph. CB350 eventually raced ahead of Meteor that maxed out at around 100 kmph in third gear. CB350 did 110 kmph in third gear.
    In fourth gear, both motorcycles started at 40 kmph. Now was the turn for Meteor to show its strength, as it raced ahead of CB350 almost effortlessly. However, the lead lasted for only a short distance, as CB350 eventually overtook Meteor. Apparently, CB350 has a higher top speed in 4th gear, which allowed it to overtake Meteor.
    In fifth gear, Meteor 350 emerged as a clear winner. Not only did it accelerate faster than CB350, it was also able to maintain a significant lead. After driving for quite a long distance, it was felt that CB350 couldn’t possibly catch up with Meteor in 5th gear.
    Ride experience summary
    According to Abhinav, he liked Meteor’s performance, especially in 4th and 5th gear. The level of acceleration and top speed would be very useful during long distance journeys. Honda CB350 trailed behind Meteor in 5th gear, which is probably due to its tall gear setup.
    As is evident from this video, specs may only be able to provide a basic idea about a motorcycle’s capabilities. Numbers do not necessarily determine how well a motorcycle will perform in the real world. This is especially true when we are comparing two products. When unsure, the best way to find out the better one that suits your needs is to take them out for a test ride. More

  • in

    Honda CB350 Deliveries Cross 1k Units – Sets New Standards In Segment

    From Sales Experience to Service, CB350 is setting new standards
    Honda H’Ness CB350 rivals the likes of Royal Enfield Classic, Meteor 350 and Benelli Imperiale 400

    Honda H’Ness CB350 has managed to woo a considerable size of audience and this can be established by its sales volume. Within its first twenty days of commencement of deliveries, Honda has retailed 1,000 units of the mid-segment retro motorcycle.
    Given its limited availability across the country, this is fairly a large number. As we all know, H’Ness CB350 is retailed only through Honda’s premium dealership chain BigWing. Also considering it is a brand new product in a segment clearly dominated by Royal Enfield, the CB350 seems to have pulled the trick.
    The Japanese brand has also revealed that demand for this bike has also spread to Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities as well. Making its global debut in late September this year, this modern classic motorcycle has its genes from the brand’s legendary CB series of the 1970s. The CB350 has been developed with nine patent applications and five first-in-segment features.
    Features on offer
    Speaking of its features, it boasts of a long equipment list which includes full-LED lighting, a digital-analogue instrument cluster, contemporary and easy to use switchgear, engine start/stop switch, hazard switch, Honda traction control, Honda Smartphone Voice Control System and more.
    Honda CB350 First Service. Image – Abhinav Bhatt
    Coming to its dynamics, the CB350 is based on a half-duplex cradle chassis that rides on conventional telescopic forks at front and twin hydraulic shock absorbers at rear. Anchoring duties are handled by a 310 mm single hydraulic disc on the front and a single 240 mm disc at the rear. This is assisted by dual-channel ABS as standard. The bike rolls on 19-inch alloy wheels at front and 18-inch wheels at rear.
    In terms of powertrain, it draws its power from a 348.36cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled long-stroke engine which delivers an output of 20.8 bhp and 30 Nm of torque. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox which comes with a slipper clutch and assist. Honda has emphasized on low-end torque in this engine which makes this motorcycle easy to ride in city commutes.
    Best in Class Experience
    Be it visiting their showroom, or the buying experience – Honda has managed to deliver best in class experience in the segment. No other OEM offers a 350cc segment machine in such an extravagant manner. From its large showrooms to well trained staff; even the after sales and service experience is much better than rivals.
    Reacting on this development, Yadvinder Singh Guleria, Director – Sales & Marketing said, “Customers belonging to a wide spectrum of age group starting from 18 years to 70 years have made H’Ness CB350 as their first choice. We are proud that even with our limited BigWing network, we have been able to achieve this milestone of 1000 customer deliveries in such a short period of time.”
    Honda H’Ness CB350 is offered in two variants- DLX and DLX Pro which come in three mono-tone colour options on the former and three dual-tone paint options on the latter. The base trim has been priced at Rs 1.85 lakh and the top-end trim is offered at Rs 1.90 lakh (ex-showroom). More

  • in

    Honda CB350 Cafe Racer Might Launch Next Year – Render

    Honda CB350 Cafe Racer – Render
    Japanese two-wheeler brand Honda is planning to explore other segments based on H’Nness CB350’s newly developed platform

    Honda made inroads into the premium cruiser segment of motorcycles with the launch of H’Ness CB350 last month. Priced at Rs 1.85 lakh (ex-showroom), this retro motorcycle has mostly received positive reviews from all quarters and is being pitched as a worthy rival to Royal Enfield and Jawa prodigies.
    While we can agree in unison that a retro classic body suits H’Ness CB350 in the best manner. However, Honda has spent hundreds of crores in development of this platform from scratch and would be looking to utilize it in other designs as well. Reports suggest, the Japanese automaker is planning to develop a cafe-racer based on this same architecture.
    Alteration in design – CB350 Cafe Racer
    A design render of CB350 turned into a modern cafe-racer has been doing rounds on the internet. Rendered by SRK Designs, the design artist only had to make slight alterations to make this look like a proper cafe racer.
    The overall stance of the bike in the rendering has become much sportier thanks to the clip-on handlebars which provides a more aggressive forward-biased riding position typical of a cafe-racer. However, it is doesn’t seem to be overly demanding since footpegs remain in their original position.
    The handlebar gets classic silver bar-end mirrors on either side and blacked-out shock absorbers. The fuel tank has been redesigned which can incorporate the rider’s legs in a forward set riding position. New body graphics on the fuel tank also enhance the cafe-racer looks and go well with the motorcycle’s character. The major update can be noticed in the seat where the designer has replaced the stock seat with a cafe racer-style single-piece one which features a seat cowl.
    At rear, the grab handles have been removed, although that might not be the case in the production-spec model where it is mandatory to install grab handles for the pillion. Side panels sport ‘Cafe-Racer’ decals which enhances the sportiness of the retro motorcycle.
    It continues to receive classic designing elements such as round headlamps, round taillamps, round LED turn indicators, chrome-finished front and rear fender and engine with chrome garnish and exhaust. Other notable finish visual highlights include semi-digital instrument cluster and alloy wheels with tubeless tyres.
    Specs
    H’Ness CB350 is based on a new half-duplex architecture which has been specifically developed for the Indian market. This frame also provides versatility to incorporate it in many other forms and a cafe-racer seems to be the appropriate match. CB350 is powered by a new single-cylinder, air-cooled, fuel-injected motor which generates 20.8 bhp and 30 Nm of peak torque. This unit is paired with a 5-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch and assist.
    Expected Launch
    If this proposed render does go into production it will be positioned as an entry-level cafe-racer and an affordable alternative to Royal Enfield Continental GT 650. It is expected to be pegged at a competitive price of Rs 2.2 lakh (ex-showroom). This bike is expected to come out at the end of next year or 2022.
    Render Source More