HMSI launches 110cc Dream Yuga commuter bike

May 15, 2012: In its race for the top slot by 2020, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) has decided to take its battle to the mass commuter segment with its new 110cc Dream Yuga motorcycle that forms part of its new three-pronged corporate direction.

The other two strategies under its belt are association with a brand ambassador – actor Akshay Kumar – to promote the product as well as strike a direct connect with the masses with its brand slogan ‘Sach Kar Denge Sapne’. HMSI expects its scooter and motorcycle portfolio to contribute equally by 2020.

In April 2012, Honda led in the scooter segment with sales of 115,846 units (74,432 units in April 2011) compared to rivals Hero MotoCorp and TVS Motor with scooter sales of 40,354 units and 32,736 units respectively in April 2012. In motorcycles and step-throughs, HMSI stood fourth with 77,665 units in April 2012 compared to 57,237 units in April 2011.

Announcing the Dream Yuga’s national launch in a bid to tap the majority 78 percent market in the lower commuter segment, Honda will focus on the 25 to 29-year age group in the B- and C-income groups in the semi-urban and urban markets.

While HMSI’s Twister with its 110cc engine is already in the market, it is not a mass product said Keita Muramatsu, president and CEO. Hence, the need for a mass product that will be available in five colours and in three variants -- Kick/Drum/Spoke, Kick/ Drum/Alloy and Self/ Drum/Alloy with a price tag starting at Rs 44,642 (ex-showroom Delhi) and going upwards to Rs 48,125 for the top-end model. Muramatsu added that the 100 and 110cc market for two-wheelers constitutes 50 percent of the total that is followed by automatic scooters.

The 110cc Dream Yuga develops 8.5bhp at 7500rpm and delivers fuel economy of 72kpl. The engine is equipped with the Honda Intelligent Ignition Control System which changes ignition timings to attain ideal combustion, leading to improved power output and efficiency.

The bike comes with a host of features like exhaust, black colour grab rail, realistic meter console and tail-light along with alloy wheels. To facilitate daily commuting are its long seat, full gear lever and full chain case. Tubeless tyres and Tuff up tube options, viscous air filter and maintenance-free battery enable increased durability.

2012 is a significant year for HMSI when Honda is marking its solo presence in the country, hence its new corporate direction. It will also expand its dealerships by 100 this year and its touch points will be extended to 2,000 from the current 1,500.

The Dream Yuga will be produced in the Manesar plant and is also expected to be later exported. At present, HMSI’s exports constitute 1,11,000 units. The company has a long-term vision of contributing 30 percent by 2020 against the current 13 percent of its global sales.

SHOBHA MATHUR