The riding culture in India has evolved significantly over the years. Earlier, two-wheelers were seen primarily as an affordable mode of transport. Today, they are much more than that. The market now caters to a wide range of riders, with multiple motorcycle segments and buyers for almost every style. Neo-retro motorcycles have become increasingly popular, combining classic styling with modern technology. Here is a list of seven retro-inspired modern motorcycles that are expected to launch in India soon.
Honda recently unveiled the CB500 roadster in India. It is a neo-retro motorcycle that draws inspiration from the CB350 and the larger CB750. Once launched, it will be positioned above the CB350 in Honda’s lineup.
The motorcycle features conventional telescopic front forks, twin rear shock absorbers, and disc brakes at both ends. Round LED headlamps, LED turn indicators, a large teardrop-shaped fuel tank, and metal mudguards further enhance its retro appeal.
The Honda CB500 will be powered by an all-new 501 cc single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine that produces 27 PS and 43.3 Nm of torque. The motorcycle will be manufactured in India and is expected to be launched soon.
The Honda Rebel 300 is a bobber-style cruiser featuring a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, a round LED headlamp, a circular TFT instrument cluster, a two-piece seat, and a short, stubby exhaust.
It is powered by a 286 cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that produces 30 PS and 27.5 Nm of peak torque. The motorcycle will be available in both standard and E-Clutch variants, allowing riders to shift gears without using the clutch lever. The launch is expected in the coming weeks.
The Honda Rebel 500 is another bobber-style cruiser that was previously sold in India as a CBU model. The new version is expected to feature around 50 percent localised components, although the engine will continue to be imported.
Power comes from a 471 cc parallel-twin engine producing 46 PS and 43.3 Nm of peak torque. It is paired with a six-speed gearbox and will also be available in both standard and E-Clutch variants.
Triumph is working on a smaller Bonneville model specifically for the Indian market. The motorcycle has already been spotted testing several times and is expected to compete with the Honda CB350 and Royal Enfield Classic 350.
The Bonneville 400 will feature a classic design with a chunky fuel tank, wide handlebars, a large round instrument cluster, clear-lens LED indicators, a round LED headlamp, and several chrome-finished elements.
It is expected to be powered by a 349 cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine producing around 29 PS and 32 Nm of torque.
Royal Enfield is currently testing the next-generation Interceptor, which is expected to be called the Interceptor 750. The motorcycle will retain its neo-retro roadster styling while gaining modern upgrades such as dual front disc brakes, an updated instrument cluster, and improved safety features.
Power is expected to come from a new 750 cc parallel-twin engine, which is a heavily revised version of the current 648 cc motor. It is likely to produce around 55 bhp and 65 Nm of torque.
Following the Interceptor, Royal Enfield is also preparing an updated Continental GT 750.The motorcycle is expected to retain its iconic café racer styling while receiving the same upgrades as the Interceptor, including dual front disc brakes, an updated instrument cluster, and other modern features.
It is expected to use the same 750 cc parallel-twin engine, producing around 55 bhp and 65 Nm of torque.
Harley-Davidson first announced the upcoming Sprint around a year ago, and the motorcycle is expected to be launched in 2026. Based on the design sketches available online, the Sprint is expected to feature a low-slung traditional cruiser design.
While Harley-Davidson has not officially revealed the technical specifications, the motorcycle is expected to use the same 440 cc single-cylinder engine seen on the Harley-Davidson X440.
Note: The original text mentioned 380 Nm of torque, which is incorrect. The 440 cc engine produces around 38 Nm of torque, along with approximately 27 bhp of power. This engine is likely to power the upcoming Sprint if Harley-Davidson chooses to use it.
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