Bike News News

Honda developing Royal Enfield Himalayan competitor for India

Written by Nizam Shaikh

Honda could be planning to tap the entry-level adventure segment in the Indian market. However, to streamline production and to balance the economies of scale, Honda could use the CB350 as its base. Speculation is that the new Honda Highness CB350 based adventure motorcycle is likely to rival the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450. Media reports suggest that the brand has already made applications to the Intellectual Property office to register the design patents.

Honda Adventure Bike

According to design patents, the Honda adventure motorcycle is likely to draw its design inspiration from the Dakar motorcycles. The bike is likely to use a similar round LED headlamp unit mounted to an upright fairing. In addition to this, the motorcycle is also likely to come with a tall visor to deflect wind and minimise buffeting. The brand could use a similar tank design but with claddings to enhance its character. The brand is also likely to offer different set of side panels and longer and wider seats. The design of the motorcycle also has quite a resemblance with the Royal Enfield Himalayan.

Honda Adventure Bike Technical Speculation

The Honda Adventure motorcycle is likely to use the same 350cc single-cylinder engine from the Highness CB350. However, the brand is likely to make changes to the gearing and the rear wheel size leading to a difference in performance compared to the standard motorcycle. As standard, the engine produces 21 Hp of power and 29.4 Nm of torque. The bike comes with a 5-speed gearbox.

Furthermore, the adventure bike is also likely to come with longer travel suspension in the front and back. The brand is also likely to make alterations to the chassis of the motorcycle to offer a higher ground clearance and a commanding riding position. Adventure specific features such as spoke wheels, knuckle-guards, a tail rack, upswept exhaust, etc.. are also expected to be offered as standard.

More details on the new motorcycle is likely to arrive soon, so stay tuned.

Also Read: 2024 Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 Review