Honda shows-off new metal at the 2014 Auto Expo
With Honda climbing to the number two position in the country, the bevy of ready-to-launch machines they displayed was expected. HMSI now looks to target the entry-level sport and sport-touring segments with the CBR500R and the CBR650F, which were on display along with the new Activa 125, the PCX125 scooter, the CX-01 concept and several other motorcycles. Honda’s motorsport efforts were represented by the display of their 2013 RC213V MotoGP machine — Marc Marquez’s championship-winning bike — and their CBR150R one-make race bike.
The CX-01 in particular is an interesting concept in that it looked nearly production-ready at the Honda stall. Of note is the fact that it was designed at Honda’s Indian facilities and utilises the CBR250R engine and from the looks of it, some of the frame elements. Styled as a sort of motard, the high ground clearance and suspension travel would make this an ideal, quick tourer and all-round bike for Indian conditions. Honda did not announce any plans for it, however.
The CBR500R and the CBR650F were first unveiled at the EICMA Motor Show in 2012 and 2013 respectively. Internationally, the CBR500R competes with the Kawasaki Ninja 300 and KTM 390 Duke for the A2 license category. With slightly more power and Honda’s reliable brand image, it could be the perfect motorcycle for buyers looking at buying a motorcycle between Rs 2 lakh and Rs 5 lakh. While the CBR650F’s nearest current competitor is the Ninja 650, the Kawasaki has half the number of cylinders, lower peak power and lacks the solid brand appeal of Honda. The Ninja, however, will likely remain cheaper. Both motorcycles are inclined towards sports touring and would be ideal for Indian roads and highways while maintaining their composure over bumpy and pothole-laden roads. Honda officials expect to launch the CBR650F in FY2016 at a price below Rs 7 lakh ex-showroom.
The CBR500R and 650F will mark Honda’s foray into a new segment in the country and we’re hopeful that the motorcycles will have none of the quality niggles of their previous premium segment entrant — the CBR250R.
