- Honda’s Interceptor rival images leaked
- Uses chassis and engine from Rebel 500
- A smaller 286cc motorcycle under development too
The world knows that Honda is working on a new motorcycle platform to take on the Royal Enfield range. But the world didn’t know that Honda is also working on a multi-cylinder motorcycle based on the Rebel 500.
The leaked patent pictures clearly suggest that a modern retro motorcycle is being developed by Honda. The overall styling is new for Honda, but the design lines resembles that of the Royal Enfield Interceptor. The presence of round headlamp, flat seat and large fuel tank clearly suggests that the Japanese maker plans to take on Royal Enfield.
Honda is using the famous Rebel 500 chassis and engine for this. In fact, the 471cc parallel-twin engine is seen on the CB500 range as well. The company has used a revised chassis for this motorcycle. The main frame has been altered with to accommodate the new riding ergonomics. The sub-frame too, is likely to be different.
According to this report, Honda plans to do the same to the Rebel 300 and create a new motorcycle. The 286cc single-cylinder motor can be used to create an affordable version that will go against the famous Royal Enfield Classic 350. In fact, we think this is the bike Honda has been talking about for the Indian market.
We are expecting one of these bikes to be showcased sometime next year. And yes, both the bikes makes sense for India. The Japanese manufacturer could even export these motorcycles from India starting next year, as India’s emission norms will be in line with global ones.
Image source: Benetts
