Honda Patents Metropolitan, Will Rival Yamaha Fascino

The trend of retro-styled scooters was first introduced by Piaggio in India with the Vespa in 2012. Later the Yamaha Fascino and the recently launched Suzuki Access 125 joined the bandwagon. While the Fascino had a lucrative balance of style and price, the retro design cues on the Access 125 does provide the scooter with a premium appeal. Now, Honda also wants a share of the retro scooter segment that has been growing steadily. As per reports, the company has patented the Metropolitan in India and it just might be Honda’s retro scooter offering. 

Speaking of the Metropolitan, the curvy-looking scooter features a distinctive silhouette, carefully incorporated circular body inserts and instruments. The smooth flowing lines are well accentuated with chrome details and that takes one back in time. In the international market where Honda retails the Metropolitan, the scooter is available only with a 50cc fuel-injected four-stroke single-cylinder motor. For India, the manufacturer might use the Activa’s much appreciated 110cc engine that is known for its refinement and reliability. Other cycle parts such as suspension and brakes will mostly be carry fowarded from the current Metropolitan.

When introduced in the Indian market, the Metropolitan will be placed below the Activa 125. The retro scooter will compete in the 100cc segment of gearless scooters and face competition from the likes of the Yamaha Fascino, the TVS Jupiter and the Hero MotoCorp Maestro Edge.