KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Honda patents multiple premium bikes in India
- Launch possible in the coming months
- Can be brought as CBU
Honda India has recently patented the design of its four upcoming premium bikes. The patented models include the CBR650R, CBR500R, CB1000 Hornet, and the CB500 Hornet. Does it mean that these bikes will be launched soon? Well, read the details below about these bikes and their expected prices. Also, you can join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Group for such latest automotive details.
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Honda India Planning To Bring Big Bikes Soon?
To begin with, Honda is planning to bring the new 500cc bikes. One is the CBR500R while the other is the CB500 Honret. Both bikes use the same engine as seen on the NX500 globally. The parallel-twin engine is fairly powerful and the bikes will be loaded with features like LED lights, a TFT console, ride modes, and dual-channel ABS. The Hornet, here, will be a streetfighter bike while the CB500R will focus on a sports touring setup. The pricing of both bikes could revolve between Rs 7-10 lakh; depending upon the CBU duties.
Another re-introduction would be the CBR650R. A bike that has already been on sale in India; is set to return in its latest avatar. The new global design is sharp and the overall stance of the bike is now more sporty. We expect it to use the same 650cc, inline-four engine as the previous bike; without any changes in power output. Features on it will include a TFT console, ride modes, traction control, and more. Honda can very well position it above Rs 10 lakh; as it'll be a CBU.
Last but not least, the CB1000 Hornet design has also been patented. The naked liter-class sports bike could become the highest capacity naked bike among Honda's fleet in India, upon launch. Moreover, it'll use the 2017 model Fireblade engine with a power output of more than 150 bhp. More details will be revealed about it once we inch closer towards the second half of this year. Being a CBU, we expect it to be priced above Rs 18 lakh in India.
Now the main question is, whether these bikes will be launched in India or not. While we know that Honda has a history of patenting names and designs in India and not launching them; the 500cc and 650cc bikes could prove to be a good decision. The premium bike segment is booming in India and Honda's absence in it is evident.
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Verdict
Honda India has been stagnant for a long time; especially in the premium bike market. With no new models launching, the homologation of designs could change this stagnancy very soon. Tell us in the comments what you think about Honda brining the new superbikes in India.
