Key highlights
- Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) is evaluating exports of the India-made CB500.
- The motorcycle’s 501cc engine is planned for local manufacturing, extending Honda’s localisation efforts beyond the CB350 range.
- Honda is also considering more models from its global portfolio for India, with additional launches planned for 2027.
Honda is looking beyond the domestic market for its upcoming CB500. The Japanese two-wheeler manufacturer is evaluating the possibility of exporting the India-made motorcycle, while preparing to expand local engine manufacturing and introduce more products in India.
The export plan is still under consideration, with no confirmed overseas markets or timeline announced. The move would, however, build on Honda’s existing export operations from India, which already include the CB350-based GB350 sold in markets such as Japan and the UK.
Honda CB500 engine to be made in India
The CB500 is powered by a 501 cc, single-cylinder, air/oil-cooled engine that produces 28 hp and 43.3 Nm of torque. Honda has confirmed plans to manufacture its engine locally, although the company has not disclosed the production location, start date or extent of localisation.
Local engine production would expand Honda’s manufacturing capabilities into a higher-displacement category. The company already manufactures engines for its CB350 range in India.
The CB500 was unveiled for the Indian market in July 2026 and is offered in three variants. Prices start at Rs 2.75 lakh for the alloy-wheel version and go up to Rs 3.02 lakh for the top-spec variant with tubeless cross-spoke wheels and special graphics.
More Honda motorcycles could be localised
Honda is also evaluating other motorcycles from its international portfolio for potential local production in India. According to HMSI president and CEO Tsutsumu Otani, decisions will depend on customer demand and the capabilities of the domestic supply chain.
The NX500 was specifically mentioned as a potential candidate for localisation, although Honda has not confirmed any plans to manufacture or launch it locally.
The company has also indicated that more motorcycle launches are planned for 2027. Details about the upcoming models, their segments and launch timelines remain under wraps.
Manufacturing capacity to increase by 2028
Honda is planning to increase its annual manufacturing capacity in India from 62.5 lakh units to 80 lakh units by 2028. The expansion is expected to support domestic demand as well as exports, with additional production lines planned at existing facilities.
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