X-BLADE 160
HMSI NEVER DISAPPOINT AT THE EXPO and this year was no exception. To start with, HMSI showcased the entire range that has received updates for 2018. Most of the bikes in the line-up get new graphics and slight cosmetic changes; however, products such as the CB Hornet 160R and CBR 250R ― yes, it’s back in BS-IV compliant avatar ― get LED lighting along with revised body work. All the models on display have only received aesthetic changes as they are mechanically identical to the existing ones.
HMSI also brought their most popular scooter, the Activa, to the Expo in the 5G avatar. The fifthgeneration Activa was announced at the Expo and soon the company would launch it in the market. Although the price was not announced, we guess it will be similar to that of the current Activa 4G.
HMSI had 11 new and updated models on display. The company did not reveal any of the prices at the Expo as it plans to have a formal launch for the products very soon.
The biggest surprise from HMSI came in the form of the X-Blade, a new and stylish motorcycle that is based on the CB Unicorn platform. The X-Blade features a full-LED headlamp, aggressive and futuristic styling, Honda’s trusted 162.71-cc single-cylinder, aircooled engine that is borrowed from the Hornet. The X-Blade will be sold alongside the CB Hornet 160R. Honda have planned a March 2018 launch for the X-Blade with a price tag that will compete with the likes of Bajaj Pulsar NS160.
The Honda pavilion also featured an adventure version of the X-Blade that looked slightly different from the standard variant as it featured a fly-screen, a crash guard, and a topbox mounting plate. It looked quite interesting but not hardcore enough for off-roading, for it lacked the suspension travel and wire-wheels, two elements that are a must for a comfortable off-roading machine.
Apart from the domestic models, HMSI also had on display their international stars like the CBR 1000RR and the majestic Goldwing alongside the championship winning 2017 MotoGP racer, the RC213V, and the PCX EV.