Flex-fuel bikes are like superheroes for the environment and your wallet! They can run on both petrol and ethanol, a cleaner and cheaper fuel made from plants. This means less pollution and more savings for riders.
In India, bikes like the Honda CB300F Flex-Fuel and Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 Flex Fuel are leading the way, showing that you can ride smart and green!
Let’s compare these flex-fuel champion’s features, mileage, and value.
What Makes Flex-Fuel Bikes the Future of Indian Roads?
Flex-fuel bikes run on a combination of petrol and ethanol, often referred to as E20 (20% ethanol) or E85 (85% ethanol). Here’s why they’re gaining traction in India:
- Environmentally Friendly: Ethanol burns cleaner than petrol, reducing harmful emissions like carbon dioxide. This helps tackle air pollution in crowded cities.
- Cost Savings: Ethanol is cheaper than petrol, so riders save money at the pump.
- Government Support: India’s ethanol-blending program is rapidly expanding, aiming for E20 compatibility nationwide by 2025, leading to more ethanol-fueling stations.
Honda CB300F Flex-Fuel
Credits: Honda CB300F flex-fuel Edition
The Honda CB300F Flex-Fuel is Honda’s first flex-fuel motorcycle in India, showcasing its expertise from selling over seven million flex-fuel bikes in Brazil.
Key Features
- Engine: 293.52cc oil-cooled, single-cylinder, 4-stroke PGM-FI engine for power and efficiency.
- Power & Torque: 24.5 bhp of power and 25.9 Nm of torque for a responsive and smooth ride.
- Advanced Tech: Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) ensures precise fuel delivery, while the Intelligent Ethanol Indicator monitors ethanol content in real-time.
- Safety and Control: Dual-channel ABS, assist-slipper clutch, and Honda’s Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) enhance safety and riding comfort.
- Modern Design: Golden USD front forks, all-LED lighting, and a fully digital instrument panel with adjustable brightness.
Performance and Pricing
The Honda CB300F Flex-Fuel is priced at ₹1,70,000 (ex-showroom, Delhi). Although official mileage figures aren’t available, the advanced fuel injection system ensures competitive fuel economy.
Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 Flex Fuel
The Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 Flex Fuel is a sporty, eco-friendly motorcycle designed to run on E85 fuel (85% ethanol and 15% petrol).
Key Features
- Engine: 249cc oil-cooled, single-cylinder, 4-stroke engine designed for efficiency and reliability.
- Power & Torque: Produces 26.5 bhp and 22.2 Nm of torque.
- E85 Compatibility: Modified injectors, fuel pump, and ECU mapping handle high ethanol content without compromising performance.
- Safety Features: Dual-channel ABS for enhanced braking and a side-stand interlock switch to prevent accidental starts.
- Design: Split-seat layout, dual muffler, and stylish LED headlamps for a sleek, modern look.
Performance and Pricing
The Gixxer SF 250 Flex Fuel offers an estimated mileage of 40–45 km/l with ethanol blends, depending on riding style and road conditions. Priced at ₹2,16,500 (ex-showroom, Delhi).
Honda CB300F vs. Suzuki Gixxer SF 250
In India’s flex-fuel motorcycle market, the Honda CB300F Flex-Fuel and Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 Flex Fuel are standout contenders. Both bikes offer unique features and appeal to different riders. Here’s how they compare:
Engine and Performance
- Honda CB300F: Equipped with a 293.52cc engine, it generates 24.5 bhp of power and 25.9 Nm of torque. Suitable for riders seeking a balance of power and efficiency for city commutes and highway rides.
- Suzuki Gixxer SF 250: Features a smaller 249cc engine but delivers higher output with 26.5 bhp and 22.2 Nm of torque. This bike is ideal for those craving a sportier, performance-oriented experience.
Flex-fuel Technology
- Honda CB300F: Uses advanced tech like Honda’s Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) for better traction, an assist-slipper clutch for smoother downshifts, and a fully digital console with an Intelligent Ethanol Indicator.
- Suzuki Gixxer SF 250: E85 compatibility with modified injectors, fuel pump, and ECU mapping. It includes dual-channel ABS, a side-stand interlock switch, and Suzuki’s Easy Start System for convenience.
Pricing
- Honda CB300F: Priced at ₹1,70,000 (ex-showroom, Delhi), it offers excellent value for its features and performance.
- Suzuki Gixxer SF 250: Priced at ₹2,16,500 (ex-showroom, Delhi), it caters to riders seeking a premium flex-fuel experience.
Mileage
- Honda CB300F: While official mileage figures aren’t available, its advanced fuel injection system is expected to deliver competitive efficiency.
- Suzuki Gixxer SF 250: Offers an estimated mileage of 40–45 km/l with ethanol blends, depending on the mix and riding conditions.
Which One to Choose?
- Choose the Honda CB300F for an affordable bike with advanced traction control and torque-heavy performance for adaptable riding conditions.
- Choose the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 for a sporty, premium motorcycle with higher power output and advanced ethanol compatibility.
Upcoming Flex-Fuel Bikes in India
The flex-fuel motorcycle segment is heating up, with manufacturers preparing to introduce new models to the Indian market. Here’s a glimpse of some anticipated launches:
- KTM 390 Adventure S: Expected on roads by mid-2025, this bike will bring KTM’s adventure performance to the flex-fuel category.
- Hero Karizma XMR 250 and XMR 210: Both models launch in February 2025, promising Hero’s reliability with flex-fuel compatibility.
- Bajaj CT 150X: Set for a June 2025 release, this model aims to offer a practical, cost-effective option for daily commuters.
- Triumph Thruxton 400: Launching May 2025, this bike targets enthusiasts seeking a blend of classic design and flex-fuel technology.
- Yamaha MT-07: Launching March 2025, this model will cater to riders seeking a flex-fuel bike with strong performance.
FAQs
1. What are flex-fuel bikes?
Flex-fuel bikes can run on a combination of petrol and ethanol, allowing riders to choose fuels based on availability and cost.
2. Which is the most affordable flex-fuel bike in India?
Currently, the Honda CB300F Flex-Fuel, priced at ₹1,70,000 (ex-showroom Delhi), is the most affordable flex-fuel motorcycle in India.
3. Does ethanol affect mileage?
Yes, higher ethanol blends like E85 may slightly reduce mileage compared to petrol, but the environmental benefits and cost savings often outweigh this trade-off.
4. Why are flex-fuel bikes important for India?
Flex-fuel bikes reduce pollution, lower fuel costs, and decrease dependence on imported fossil fuels, aligning with India’s sustainable transportation goals.
5. Are flex-fuel bikes reliable for long-term use?
Yes, manufacturers design flex-fuel bikes with modified fuel systems and engines to handle ethanol blends without compromising durability or performance.
