Honda will launch 4 new models in the Indian market by 2026-27 across various segments in order to capture the topmost slot in two-wheeler industry
Honda is planning to introduce a slew of new motorcycles in the Indian market, which includes the Rebel 300 and new 500cc models. In addition, it has been learnt that the Japanese two-wheeler brand will also launch the ADV 160 maxi scooter in our country. While Honda Rebel 300 and 500cc bikes are expected to go on sale in 2026-27, the adventure-style scooter will arrive later this year to rival Yamaha Aerox 155 and Hero Xoom 160. These product launches are a key part of Honda’s strategy to clinch the number one spot and become the country’s leading two-wheeler brand.
Beginning with Honda Rebel 300, it is already retailed in several global markets while powered by the same 268cc liquid-cooled engine as the CB300R. Sitting on a unique frame, the bobber-styled cruiser motorcycle has a low saddle height of 690 mm. It tips the scale at just 170 kg.
Honda has already achieved certain levels of localization with the CB300R and it has resulted in an aggressive price tag of Rs 2.40 lakh (ex-showroom). The Rebel 300 is positioned below the CB300R in global markets and therefore if the company can localize it in an identical manner, it is safe to assume a pricing around 2.20 lakh (ex-showroom) upon its launch in India. The cruiser bike can become a worthy contender against the 350cc bikes of Royal Enfield.
Reportedly, Honda is also discreetly working on a 500cc project specifically for the Indian market. It will spawn two bikes which are internally codenamed as MLHJ and MLWA, claims an Autocar India report. Honda presently retails the NX500 in our country which comes with a 471cc parallel-twin engine. However, it is believed that since the MLHJ and MLWA are part of a new project, they might get a new powerplant and not use the NX500’s engine.
Honda has already trademarked the ‘GB500S’ moniker internationally, which indicates that the new 500cc bikes could be sitting on the same platform as the Honda CB350 H’ness. If the company tried to roll out these bikes with a single-cylinder 500cc mill, then it would create a niche segment in the market which was once a territory of Royal Enfield UCE 500. Just so you know, the UCE 500 was discontinued at the onset of BS6 emission norms.
Last but not the least, Honda ADV 160 which has been codenamed as K4LA, is powered by a 157cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine which develops maximum power of 16 bhp at 8500 rpm and peak torque of 14.7 Nm at 6500 rpm. Sitting on an underbone frame, it offers under-seat storage space of 27 litres while riding on 14-inch front and 13-inch rear wheels. It gets a fuel tank of 8.1 litres. Honda ADV 160 price in India cannot be assumed right now as it shares almost nothing with the models sold in our market.
With inputs from Autocar India
