International markets have been the focus for many motorcycle manufacturers because of their continued growth.

But in countries like India, the market is made up by smaller sized engine models mostly under 250 cc. In the past BMW tried to market its larger motorcycles and although they were less than successful, Harley-Davidson has also turned its attention to India.

Now Honda has announced it will introduce an 800cc bike by the end of this financial year.

“When we introduced motorcycles in India, we started with smaller engine sizes to cater to the masses. We have been exploring launching bigger motorcycles and this year an 800cc bike will be launched for the Indian market,” Honda Motorcycles and Scooters India (HMSI) president and chief executive S. Aoyama said.

HMSI, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Honda Motor Co., entered India with its Active scooter in 2000.