Honda Rebel 300- What to expect?

Honda has finally brought the Rebel 300 to India, and while prices are yet to be announced, the motorcycle is expected to be launched later this year.

It will be offered in two variants – Standard and E-Clutch – with expected prices of around Rs. 2.50 lakh and Rs. 3 lakh, respectively (ex-showroom). Here’s what more to expect.

A new cruiser in this segment

The Rebel 300 marks Honda’s entry into the entry-level premium cruiser segment. It has the same design as the Rebel 500 and that’s not a bad thing at all. The Honda Rebels look distinct with their teardrop shaped fuel tank, exposed subframe and curved fenders. The low-slung stance and the wide handlebars also add to that quintessential cruiser aesthetics.

A liquid-cooled powertrain

Powering the Rebel 300 is the familiar 286cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that also does duty in the CB300R. It produces around 30bhp and 27.5Nm and comes paired with a six-speed gearbox.

Buyers will have the option of Honda’s E-Clutch technology, which allows clutchless starts and gear shifts while still retaining the clutch lever for manual operation whenever required.

This engine is known for its refinement and peppy performance. That said, it’ll be interesting to see how Honda has managed the final gearing to suit the cruiser application of the Rebel 300.

The hardware

The Rebel 300 has a tubular steel frame that is suspended by telescopic forks and twin rear shock absorbers. The bike rides on alloy wheels while braking duties are handled by disc brakes at both ends with dual-channel ABS.

Packed with features

Honda has also equipped the India-spec Rebel 300 with a new circular TFT display, replacing the LCD unit seen on international models. It also gets the Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) system and dual-channel ABS>

Rivals

In terms of rivals, the Rebel 300 will primarily take on the Royal Enfield Meteor 350 as well as the Jawa 42 Bobber. Honda is expected to commence sales later this year, with official prices and variant-wise details likely to be announced closer to launch. The bike is expected to be retailed from Honda BigWing dealerships.