Honda Cliq: Everything you need to know

Honda's latest offering, the Cliq, may look like an automatic scooter, but it's far from being conventional. Let's try and figure out what it really is...

Honda two-wheelers in India has launched an all-new scooter called the Cliq. Now, of course, after having a look at its quirky design, you might be wondering as to what’s its purpose? You see, Honda’s Activa already rules the scooter segment in the country – by quite a huge margin - so, why has Honda taken the trouble to launch this rather peculiar looking scooter? Here’s a quick answer to all those queries and more:

1. Market Positioning: As per Honda, the Cliq is targeted at buyers in rural and semi-urban areas, and it'll be mainly competing against 100-110cc commuter segment motorcycles. However, at the same time, it can be used by youngsters/fairer sex. It’s an automatic scooter after all.
2. Design: Since the Honda Cliq is aimed primarily at buyers in semi-urban and rural markets, it’s been designed keeping in mind the needs of the target audience. It’s around 6 kilos lighter than the Activa, it has a wider floorboard to accommodate extra luggage, and the saddle is longer and wider, while seat height is quite low at 743mm, meaning everyone will find it easy to ride this thing.
3. Engine: The Cliq shares its powertrain with the Activa and Navi. It’s powered by the same 109cc engine that develops 8bhp of maximum power and 9Nm of peak torque. Power transmission duties are carried out by an automatic gearbox. The Cliq returns 60km/l (claimed) and has a top speed of 83km/h.
4. Features & Equipment: The Cliq comes loaded with a lot of features. This includes a USB charging port, Combi Brake system (CBS), 14-litres of under-seat storage and block-pattern 10-inch tyres on both ends. It doesn’t, however, get disc brake at front – both wheels get drum brakes. In addition to that, Honda is offering optional extras like a front screen, floor cover, box centre, extra load carrier, etc.
5. Price: The most important fact about the Cliq is its price - at Rs 42,499 (ex-showroom, Delhi), it’s not only aimed squarely at some of the best-selling commuter segment motorcycles, but is also the most affordable Honda scooter on the marke now.