Honda is making entry into the Indian off-road racing

Honda has announced its entry into the Indian off-road racing space. As part of this move, this may also expand the off-road motorcycle lineup, which introduces the dual-sport motorcycle, which are sold interntionally, to India.

Till now, the brand has not revealed which championships it plans to participate in. However, we expect it to participate in the India National Rally Championship (INRC) and the National Motocross Championship (NMC) with respect to the factory teams. This could also take part in the Indian Supercross Racing League (ISRL), helping privateers with the factory support.

Over the years, HMSI has had a strong presence in circuit racing in India through initiatives such as Honda One Make Race and participation in the Indian National Motorcycle Racing Championship. The company has also supported rider development through international platforms like the Asia Road Racing Championship.

With the growing interest in off-roading riding, this makes sense for the brand to secure a foothold in this space. The brand does not have any off-road focused motorcycles in the sub-500cc segment.

If Honda launches something in this segment, it will be able to compete in the lower classes of national and regional races, where the production-spec motorcycles get used.