HERO – XF3R CONCEPT
Hey, what’s that?
It’s only a concept, but the XF3R looks like it’s already up for a brawl with the BMW G 310 R and the KTM 390 Duke. With its muscular streetfighter styling and a 300 cc single-cylinder motor, the XF3R is going to add a spicy twist to its segment. No technical specifications have been revealed but a sub-40 bhp powerplant will be very welcome, don’t you think?
Will it be launched?
Hero hasn’t said anything, but it’s definitely nowhere close to production. 2017, however, might be the year when Hero goes very, very bold.
What else is coming?
First up is the all-new Splendor i-Smart 110, built independently by Hero (that’s big news for Splendor loyalists), followed by the Xtreme 200, an interesting extension to the Xtreme family. No word on the HX 250R yet, but it’s on its way, sooner than later we hope.
What do we think?
A bigger, more powerful Impulse would have stolen the show! That said, the XF3R definitely looks very promising and we hope it makes it to production soon enough.
HONDA – NAVI (+AFRICA TWIN/CONCEPT)
Hey, what’s that?
The motorcycle of the show, if it can be called a motorcycle, that is! The Navi is an absolute surprise from Honda, which typically steers clear of making too much of a statement at the Auto Expo. With Activa-sourced underpinnings, the Navi is a cheeky little urban runabout and a very interesting alternative for scooter lovers with motorcycling aspirations. A 110 cc motor paired to a CVT unit will make the Navi a hit with just about everyone who knows a thing or two about urban commuting.
Will it be launched?
It already has been! Priced at Rs 39,500 (ex-showroom, Delhi), the Navi is going to find a ton of buyers, we’re sure of it.
What else is coming?
The Africa Twin, that’s what. This towering, multi-cylinder rally raid motorcycle with an iconic nameplate sent the crowds into a tizzy and Honda will most certainly launch it in India in the next few months. The Triumph Tiger has a lot to worry about, then!
What do we think?
Cool move, Honda! The Navi is the sort of bold, adventurous scootercycle (can we call it that?) we never saw coming and it’s as practical as it is desirable. Interchangeable panels turn it from a chic urban runabout into a cheeky adventure-tourer and we just can’t wait to have one in our long-term fleet!
