Honda’s premium motorcycle division, BigWing, has been hit hard by the latest GST revision for two-wheelers above 350cc. Prices on the brand’s flagship models have now increased by as much as ₹2.92 lakh, with the legendary Gold Wing Tour reaching an ex-showroom figure of ₹42.82 lakh.
Why the Prices Went Up
Under the new GST framework, the tax rate for motorcycles above 350cc has jumped from roughly 31% (inclusive of cess) to a steep 40%. This additional burden translates directly into higher showroom prices across all Honda BigWing offerings in India.
- Previous GST rate: ~31%
- Revised GST rate: 40%
- Models affected: 10 premium bikes in the BigWing line-up
How Each Model Has Changed
Model | Old Price | Price Increase | New Price |
---|---|---|---|
Rebel 500 | ₹5.12 L | +₹37,000 | ₹5.49 L |
NX500 | ₹5.70 L | +₹43,000 | ₹6.13 L |
CB750 Hornet | ₹8.60 L | +₹62,000 | ₹9.22 L |
XL750 Transalp | ₹11.00 L | +₹81,000 | ₹11.81 L |
CBR650R | ₹10.40 L | +₹76,000 | ₹11.16 L |
CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP | ₹28.99 L | +₹2.19 L | ₹31.18 L |
Gold Wing Tour (GL1800) | ₹39.90 L | +₹2.92 L | ₹42.82 L |
(All figures ex-showroom, approx.)
What This Means for Buyers
For riders eyeing Honda’s flagship touring machine, the Gold Wing now costs nearly ₹3 lakh more than last month, putting it firmly in the stratosphere of luxury motorcycles. Even popular mid-range models like the XL750 Transalp or CB750 Hornet are costlier by ₹62,000–81,000, a difference that may sway undecided buyers.
The price hike raises the cost of entry into Honda’s premium lineup at a time when more riders were looking to upgrade from mid-category machines. While passionate enthusiasts may still stretch to own these motorcycles, casual superbike aspirants could find the new sticker shock difficult to justify.
Industry Reactions
Market watchers believe this move could slow demand in the large-capacity bike space.
“This steep increase changes the affordability equation for premium motorcycles in India. Enthusiasts expected a correction, but a nine-point jump in GST is a major shock,” one analyst explained.
Industry groups have also repeated calls for rationalization. Manufacturers argue that in many global markets, large motorcycles are considered legitimate commuter and touring vehicles — not just luxury goods.
The Contrasting Picture
Interestingly, while BigWing’s premium bikes became more expensive, Honda’s mainstream models under 350cc actually got cheaper with the same GST revision. For example, the CB350 now costs nearly ₹19,000 less, directly benefiting entry-level riders.
Segment | GST Impact | Example Change | Likely Outcome |
---|---|---|---|
BigWing (>350cc bikes) | 31% → 40% | Gold Wing: +₹2.92 L | Shrinking segment |
Commuter (≤350cc) | 28% → 18% | CB350 H’ness: -₹18,887 | Stronger sales |
This split means Honda now faces a two-speed market – thriving mass-sales models on one side and premium BigWing motorcycles that are drifting further into exclusivity.
Bottom Line
The Honda BigWing price hike highlights how tax policy can dramatically shift the ownership equation. Touring giants like the Gold Wing and superbikes such as the Fireblade SP are now harder than ever to own, while affordable commuter and mid-size machines have become more accessible. For Honda, this may spell a stronger foothold in the commuter segment, even if premium sales take a short-term hit.