Auto Expo 2018: Honda have pulled the wraps on a new 160 cc motorcycle at the Auto Expo 2018, the Honda X-Blade. While the name might make it sound like a sporty replacement for the Hornet 160R that Honda launched in 2015, its not. So if the X-Blade 160 does not replace the Hornet, the question is where does it fit in an already overcrowded segment. According to Honda’s press-release the X-Blade has been born to “transform’ the ride of millenials and the success-oriented Generation Z. If that made no sense to you, we aren’t surprised. Either way the X-Blade has a unique take on the 160cc segment, seemingly a more muscular and angular cousin of the Hornet 160R. Under the tank powering the X-Blade will be powered by a 160cc single-cylinder engine that will make 13.93 hp and 13.9 Nm of torque.
To increase the zip peak torque kicks in as low as 6000 rpm. The engine is likely to carry forward the 5-speed manual transmission from the Hornet 160R .Keeping the Hornet technologically relevant and the X-Blade will feature a full-digital instrument cluster along with a service due display. It will weigh in at 140 kg, 786 mm height with a 1347 mm wheelbase.
Speaking to the media at the Auto Expo 2018, Yadvinder Singh Guleria Senior Vice President, Sales and marketing at Honda said “Indian two-wheeler market is accepting scooters like never before, leading from the front, “ India Loves Activa” Showing some love back Honda is delighted to launch the Activa 5G to bring the joy of riding to all generations.
The Honda X-Blade will feature a full-digital instrument cluster along with a service due display also. Other key figures include a 140 kg kerb weight, 786 mm height, 1347 mm wheelbase and 160 mm of ground clearance. Expect a final price on the X-Blade by March 2018.
In addition, The Auto Expo 2018 also saw Honda also do an encore model for their halo Activa 4G, that has unsurprisingly been called the 5G. The Activa 5G will get a new deluxe variant that will get a new Full LED headlamp and position lamp, an added dose of styling to make it look more contemporary in the form of a new chrome garnish. The Activa will also be available in two new colours namely Dazzle Yellow Metallic and Pearl Spartan Red).
