Honda Bikes

The 2021MY Honda CBR250RR makes about 3bhp more than its 2019MY avatar, alongside other improvements
Japanese two-wheeler manufacturer Honda Motorcycle has launched the updated 2021MY CBR250RR sportsbike in its home market. Compared to its previous 2019MY format, the new Honda CBR250RR comes with better performance, added equipment and four new colour choices: Matte Gun Power Black Metallic, Pearl Glare White, Grand Prix Red and Grand Prix Red (striped).

Ex-showroom prices start at JPY 8,21,700 (~ Rs 5.80 lakh) and vary with colour. Despite carrying a significant list of improvements, the motorcycle does not sport any major visual changes. Globally, the 2021MY Honda CBR250RR competes with the latest Yamaha YZF-R25 and Kawasaki Ninja 250. Kawasaki’s all-new Ninja ZX-25R, being a quarter-litre inline-four, plays in a different category.
Honda Motorcycle Japan targets an annual sales rate of 4,000 units for its latest quarter-litre model. The sportsbike will be available in a few more markets across Asia but we don’t see any possibility of an Indian debut. On the other hand, Honda Motorcycle India plans to launch the CBR500R in the near future. The Indian market is witnessing improved desirability for entry-level middleweight motorcycles. In fact, KTM India is working on an all-new ~500cc twin-cylinder model range.

Four colours: Matte Gun Power Black Metallic, Pearl Glare White, Grand Prix Red (striped) and Grand Prix Red
2021 Honda CBR250RR Specs
The Honda CBR250RR is powered by a 249cc liquid-cooled DOHC inline-twin engine (not to be confused with a parallel-twin) capable of producing 40bhp @ 13,000rpm and 25Nm @ 11,000rpm. This is mated to a 6-speed transmission. ‘Slip-and-assist clutch’ comes as standard while quickshifter (bi-directional) is optional. In comparison, the 2019MY version made 37bhp @ 12,500rpm and 23Nm @ 11,000rpm.
The welcome bump in output was possible thanks to a new set of tin-plated piston rings, carburised connecting rods, retuned ECU and altered ignition timing. Both the intake and exhaust systems were tweaked a bit as well. Kerb weight has gone up marginally to hit 168kg.
Key Highlights & Features
As mentioned before, the new CBR250RR remains aesthetically identical to its previous avatar. The quad full-LED headlamp setup, split LED tail lamps, blue-lit digital instrument console (incorporates 5-lap shift indicator, lap timer and more), etc., are familiar components. The motorcycle employs a throttle-by-wire system and gets three riding modes: Comfort, Sport and Sport+.
Its truss-frame chassis supports 37mm USD forks at the front and a Pro-Link 5-step preload-adjustable rear monoshock suspension. Braking duties are carried out by 310mm and 240mm single petal discs at the front and rear, respectively, with dual-channel ABS. The 2021MY Honda CBR250RR rides on 110/70R17 and 140/70R17 tyres. More

The 2021My Honda CT125 Hunter Cub is essentially a scrambler variant of the popular ‘miniMoto’, C125 Super Cub
Japanese two-wheeler manufacturer Honda Motorcycle launched the fun little CT125 Hunter Cub in its home market back in March 2020. The 2021MY Honda CT125 Hunter Cub is basically a hardcore scrambler variant of the brand’s popular C125 Super Cub ‘miniMoto’ or simply, minibike. Ex-showroom prices start at 440,000 Japanese Yen or roughly Rs 3.10 lakh.

Minibikes are becoming increasingly popular in North America, Europe and certain ASEAN markets thanks to their user-friendliness and supreme affordability. Oftentimes, these ‘pocket bikes’ are ideal starter motorcycles as well since they come under A1 licence category. Perhaps the Honda Grom 125 and Monkey are the most popular examples in this class.
Coming back to the CT125 Hunter Cub (‘T’ stands for ‘Trail), it is more of a want rather than a need compared to its regular sibling. The scrambler DNA may not attract the wider sphere of buyers, but minibike enthusiasts find a peculiar charm in it. The Honda CT125 Hunter Cub is easily the smallest scrambler in series production. Here is an extreme example of the same, complete with a ‘Gatling gun’ exhaust!

Gets a ‘worn-out’ black theme
Thailand-based customisation shop K-Speed has given a ‘combat-ready’ spinoff for the little scrambler. Despite looking like a basic form of transportation from the post-apocalyptic era, the mod has not compromised the miniMOTO’s original potential (if not improved it).
Key Highlights
K-Speed started the project by replacing the Hunter Cub’s stock swingarm with a custom unit longer by two inches. After this, the team installed a 100/100R17 knobby tyre (90/100R17 at the front). The fatter tyres required new fenders (mudguards) and raised suspension (Diablo shocks with 1.5-inch lift). In addition to raising its looks, the top-mounted toolbox promises extra practicality.

Increased ground clearance
Other notable upgrades include diamond+pleated seat stitching, new chainguard, LED lighting, headlamp grille, raised handlebars with bar-end mirrors and aftermarket grips; custom switchgear, Takegawa master cylinder, repositioned instrument console (just above the left crash guard), etc. In order to increase its offroading potential, K-Speed has also added a sturdier sump guard, grippier footpegs, broader side stand foot and upgraded brake lines.
Of course, the Gatling gun-like exhaust setup attracts the most eyes. It spins according to the rate of emission or in other words, engine RPM — quite gimmicky but a fun inclusion nevertheless. The custom CT125 Hunter Cub follows an interesting ‘worn-out black’ theme.

‘Gatling gun’ exhaust
Honda CT125 Hunter Cub Specs
The 2021MY Honda CT125 Hunter Cub is powered by a 124.9cc air-cooled FI SOHC single-cylinder engine good for 8.72bhp @ 7,000rpm and 11Nm @ 4,500rpm. This is mated to a 4-speed semi-automatic gearbox. The minibike weight about 120kg (10kg heavier than the C125 Super Cub).

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It seems the adjustable front suspension was too soft to handle a bunch of stairs without grounding the engine protector
No doubt, riding your brand new adventure bike off the showroom is a wonderful feeling. The excitement is usually overflowing at that moment and it sometimes lead to not-so-good consequences. Just a few days ago a video had gone viral on social media, where a Kia Carnival had crashed into a wall while it was being taken out of the showroom by the owner.

Something similar has happened again, but the extent of damage is nowhere close. Lucky that this 2020 Honda Africa Twin rider did not end up crashing his motorcycle seconds from taking delivery although he came awfully close to it.
The video shows the motorcycle riding down the showroom steps, a mild exercise for the immensely capable Honda, but it appears the adjustable front forks are configured too soft for the task. As a result, the front suspension compressed too much, thus lowering the ground clearance. Consequently, the bash plate made a solid impact on one of the last steps, breaking it in the process. Luckily, neither the rider nor the motorcycle got hurt (save for the scratched bash plate).

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2020 Honda Africa Twin – what’s new?
Honda Africa Twin, having noted much success since launch in 2016 with over 87,000 units sold, has received a mid-life refresh recently. The 2020 Honda Africa Twin promises to be improved in terms of technology and with a more powerful engine as compared to its earlier counterpart.
The new Honda Africa Twin is more off-road based, commands better performance and is loaded with technologies. It is available with manual and Dual Clutch Transmission variants.
The flagship adventure tourer sports LED lighting, a revised 6.5” TFT touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay, an instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity and access to functions like navigation, music and incoming calls. It 2020 Africa Twin also receives a larger capacity fuel tank of 24.8 liters and the windscreen is height adjustable. While the earlier model got seat height at a fixed 34.3 inches, the 2020 Africa Twin gets seat height adjustable to as low as 33.4 inches and as high as 35.2 inches.

2020 Honda Africa Twin
The 2020 Honda Africa Twin offers 6 riding modes of Tour, Urban, Gravel, Off-road and two user modes. Electronic features include cruise control, cornering ABS, rear lift control, wheelie control and emergency stop signals. There is also a 6 Axis IMU with ride-by-wire and Honda’s selectable torque control.
2020 Honda Africa Twin specifications
The 1,084 cc, twin cylinder, liquid-cooled engine which will be Euro 5 compliant. The motor produces 101 PS power and 105 Nm torque, 7% higher in power and 6% higher in torque as compared to the engine which powered the previous counterpart.
Suspension remains unchanged with Showa 45 mm inverted fork in the front and ProLink Swingarm at the rear. The Africa Twin rides on 21-inch front and 18-inch rear spoke wheels with off-road tyres.
The bike gets a new aluminum sub frame which ensures 4 kg lighter weight while there is a 10 percent increase in power-to-weight ratio thus enhancing performance. The 2020 Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sport available in India can be specified in Pearl Glare White Tricolour and Darkness Black Metallic color options.
The 2020 Honda Africa Twin is priced at INR 15.35 lakh for manual variant and INR 16.10 lakh for the DCT variant (ex-showroom). More

Customers can avail of the new Honda Activa 6G and Shine by paying 50 percent EMIs for 3 months
As sales of two and four wheelers are at a record low in view of the coronavirus pandemic in the country, automakers are introducing exciting payment options so as to woo customers back into showrooms

Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India have come up with special schemes on purchase of its new scooters. For this the company has entered into an agreement with IDFC First and HDFC Bank applicable on SBI credit card.
Who can Apply?
The bank will offer the loan to all those who want to buy via outright purchase as well as those seeking loans. For buyers opting for finance from IDFC First and HDFC Bank, the customer will have to pay only half the amount of EMI for the first three months for loan tenure of 36 months. Apart from this, the Bank will offer eligible customers upto 95 percent of the loan amount. Those buyers opting to purchase the bike with a credit card will also gain some benefits.
Cashback
Payment via an SBI credit card, the buyer of any Honda two wheeler, stands to receive 5 percent cash back. This scheme is valid at only some of the company dealers in the country and on offer on all locally made models that include the Honda Activa 6G, Shine, SP125, Livo, CD110 Dream, Activa 125, Dio and Grazia.
Honda Restarts Production
Following the lockdown announced by the Government of India in March 2020, HMSI dealerships resumed operations from May 4th. The company also commenced production at its facilities in Manesar (Haryana), Narsapura (Karnataka), Tapukara (Rajasthan) and Vithalapur (Gujarat). Following reopening, the automaker accelerated launch of four new BS6 models that included the CD 110 Dream, Grazia 125, 2020 Africa Twin and Livo, taking total portfolio to nine models.
With unlock being announced and social distancing as the new norm, the company has also noted increased demand for personal mobility, with two wheelers being the first choice of buyers. Sales in June 2020 stood at 2,10,879 units with 2,02,837 units sold in domestic markets while 8,042 units were exported. This was a fourfold increase in sales as compared to 54,820 units sold in May. Sales in July are expected to be higher than June 2020 sales.
The 6G – What’s New
Honda’s best selling product in India, the Activa 6G is priced at Rs.64,464 for the standard variant and at Rs.65,964 for the Deluxe trim which is around Rs.8,500 over the price of the earlier Activa 5G. It gets feature updates with an LED headlamp and gets powered via a new 109.51cc, single cylinder, fuel injected engine offering 7.79 hp power and 8.79 Nm torque down from 7.97 hp power and 9 Nm offered on its BS4 counterpart.

It gets front telescopic fork and 12 inch front wheel which are its biggest changes over the Activa 5G while braking is via 130mm drum brakes at both ends. Honda Activa 6G competes with TVS Jupiter and Hero Pleasure Plus, and also with Hero Splendor Plus and Hero Passion Pro 110. More

The Honda Forza 350 features additional features compared to the Forza 300 and a new motor
Following a reasonable number of pre-booking for its premium Forza 300 maxi-scooter, Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) delivered the first few (4 units to be precise) examples in February this year although there was no public price announcement. Then, the pandemic hit us and things pretty much came to a stand still for a few months.

One would expect HMSI to make a proper introduction of its premium scooter in the country in its BS6 avatar sometime later this year. Meanwhile, the Japanese automaker has just debuted a slightly bigger-engined Forza 350 in Thailand market (at the 2020 Bangkok Motor Show). The Honda Forza 350 is supposed to be the 300’s successor with more power and improved emission performance. So, the question is will HMSI bring the latest Forza 350 to India or come up with a BS6 version of the Forza 300?
We would put our money on the new Honda Forza 350 coming to India as it complies with latest emission norms in international markets, and hence, should be BS6 ready already. That said, HMSI has not made any official announcements regarding the Forza 350. Anyway, we will which way the company leans in the comings months.

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The 2020 Honda Forza 350 not only gets a bigger motor compared to its predecessor but also features visual changes and additional equipment. The premium automatic scooter continues to subscribe to the maxi-scooter design language with a prominent front fascia, generously proportioned stepped seats, large wheels and meaty tyres.
Salient features include LED headlamps, emergency stop lights (taillight blinks rapidly under panic brake situations to warn the following motorists), LED turn indicators integrated into rear view mirror housings, electrically adjustable windscreen which has a range of 150 mm, digi-analog instrument console, USB charging port, keyless ignition and so on. Being a touring friendly scooter, the Honda Forza 350 has enough underseat storage space to store two full face helmets in addition to compartments on the front apron.
Power comes from a 329.6 cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine whose performance figures are not made public yet. For reference, the existing Forza 300’s 279 cc motor produces 24.8 hp. One can expect a bump in power by a few horses. Transmission continues to be a CVT.

The Honda Forza 350 is priced from 173,500 TBT (around INR 4.14 lakh). The scooter emerges as a viable alternative to medium displacement cruisers and tourers. It would be interest to see how well a medium displacement premium automatic scooter will be received in India. More

Hero claims that Xtreme 160R has best in class acceleration from 0-60 kmph in 4.7 seconds
The new Hero Xtreme 160R is a sports commuter motorcycle which was first showcased earlier this year at the Hero World event. Launch was set for April 2020, but due to pandemic, launch was delayed. Now launched in two variants, deliveries have also commenced across major cities of India.

Hero Xtreme 160R single disc brake model is priced at Rs.99,950 while the variant with front and rear disc brakes carries a price tag of Rs.1.03,500. It receives a bold design as was seen on the Hero 1.R concept which was showcased at the 2019 EICMA Show in Milan.
It gets a full LED headlamp, full digital instrument console, engine kill switch, distinctive fuel tank with contrasting colour extensions and of 12 liter capacity, a single seating and smoked LED tail lamps. It also receives a raised tail end, integrated pillion grab rail and compact exhaust. Below is a brief first ride review by Youtube channel MRD vlogs.

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Engine specifications on the Hero Xtreme 160R consists of a BS6 compliant 163cc, air cooled, SOHC engine that offers 15 hp power at 8,500 rpm and 14 Nm torque at 6,500 rpm mated to a 5 speed gearbox. Acceleration from 0 to 60 kmph is possible in 4.7 seconds, claiming a top speed of 115 kmph.
Where suspension is concerned, the 160R gets 37mm telescopic fork in the front and 7 step adjustable monoshock at the rear. Braking is via 276mm disc brakes in the front and 130mm drum brakes at the rear on the base variant. The top end variant gets 220mm disc at the rear. Both variants get single channel ABS as standard.
It sits on 17 inch alloy wheels fitted with 100 section tyre in the front and 130mm section at the rear while kerb weight is at 138.5 kgs due to a new light weight diamond frame with the small wheelbase of 1,334 mm offering better manoeuvrability. Length, width and height are at 2029 x 793 x 1052 mm respectively. It also receives three colour options of Sports Red + Grey, Blue + Grey and White + Grey).

Though the Hero Xtreme 160R sets itself in a niche segment, it does take on the Honda X-Blade, TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, Bajaj Pulsar NS160, Suzuki Gixxer, Yamaha FZ-FI. Here is a detailed comparison between Hero Xtreme 160R and its rivals. More