The new Honda CBR150R has been unveiled in Thailand, which is a much more ferocious looking bike now. We question, will it come back to the Indian market?
Honda CBR150R was discontinued in India back in 2017, due to poor sales. It was another performance oriented 150cc motorcycle, well out of the budget of a regular 150cc bike.
Although as premium and performance packed it was, it failed to appeal much in our market. Its comparatively higher pricing and buyers preference for the CBR250R, led to its downfall.
Now, Honda has unveiled the new CBR150R in Thailand. It is a much better and dedicated looking sportsbike now. Based on various reports, we speculate that it might make a comeback in the Indian market.
Also Read: Honda CB300R launched in India; priced at Rs 2.41 Lakhs
In the 150cc performance bike segment, currently Yamaha has the monopoly with its R15 V3. At the time of Honda CBR150R, R15 V2 was present in the market, which was a much better selling model.
Also, we think that the plain styling of the Honda bike in front of the hooligan styled R15 V2 was also a factor for its low demand. The price difference between both of them was nearly Rs 14,000.
The new Honda CBR150R gets a narrower frame, which aids in the aerodynamics of the motorcycle. It gets a revised front fairing with air ducts over the twin-lamps, deeper knee recesses and a shorter wheelbase for improved handling.
Also Read: Honda CBR250RR Might Launch In India- Price, Specs, Launch Date
The 2019 version also gets a thoroughly revised engine. The 149cc liquid-cooled DOHC engine is more refined now. The dual camshafts have been repositioned and a new crankshaft has been added for better low-range and mid-range juice.
The engine is capable of delivering 17.1 BHP and 14.4 Nm of peak torque, with the engine mated to a 6-speed gearbox. R15 V3’s 155cc engine produces 19.1 BHP and 14.8 Nm of peak torque.
To keep the Honda CBR150R in a tough competition with R15 V3, HMSI needs to price it lower than R15. With a considerable price difference and the new evolved styling, it can be a success in India.
Also Read: Honda considering launching more middleweight performance bikes
Right now, there is no such confirmation or hint from the company officials regarding this. Considering the trends for performance motorcycles in India, Honda just might make this move.
