Honda XBlade quick review in 16 points after 3.5 years of ownership

The motorcycle is very refined & gives great fuel efficiency both in the city and on the highway.

BHPian Bismaya recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

The Need

Back in 2019, I started my first job as IT Professional and after a few months of office commutes on my beloved Shogun & Splendor, I decided to look for something newer, long-lasting & sporting recent hardware and at the same time was hassle-free and economical.

I have been using this bike for almost 3.5 years and the experience is mostly hassle-free and this bike has been a great reliable commuter and occasional tourer, especially during COVID and WFH days. It sits between the Honda CB Unicorn and the CB Hornet 160R, while trying to be a chimaera of sorts and that is where it loses out on, attempting to be the jack of all trades and master of none. Best ridden in the Urban Jungle, especially if you live in a Metro.

Shortlisted Bikes: Rs 1 Lakh Budget

• Pulsar 150 Neon
• Pulsar 125
• Hero Glamour
• Suzuki Gixxer 155 Carb

With the above money in hand, I started searching for bikes in the price bracket and the requirements were simple:

• Front Disc (no optional)
• 45-50kmpl average economy
• Optional ABS
• Long & Wider Seat
• Good Headlight Visibility
• Carb, no Fi.

What you'll like

1. Sharp, stylish, ergonomically designed, futuristic impression-styled persona and commanding road presence.
2. Decent quality stock tyres, MRF Zappers offer good grip compared to other OEM fittings in the same segment. No issues of skid, drifting or any falls yet.
3. Wide and Long Seat.
4. Engine Refinement, low and mid-range torque.
5. Great Fuel Efficiency in City & Highways.
6. The impressive throw from the Robo-face LED Headlamp.
7. Instrumentation (Console, Switchgear etc).
8. Sharp Bite from the Brakes.
9. High-Speed Stability.
10. Easy maintenance & excellent after-sales & service.
11. Factory Fit Hazard Lights and Gear Position Indicator.

What you'll dislike

1. Wooden feel of the Front Brake Lever.
2. Stiff Rear Suspension, even at the softest setting.
3. Tight space leverage and manoeuvrability, thanks to the flat handlebar.
4. Rear Set Foot Pegs and the committed rider's triangle.
5. Skinny Front Tyre (in the interest of FE) and lack of the Frontend feel.

Ending the post with some parting shots of my bike. Full-blown ownership review coming soon.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.