Hero Honda CD 100: Hero's stepping stone to becoming the largest two-wheeler maker
Launched in 1983, this bike didn't just ride onto Indian roads—it rolled into the hearts of millions, becoming a symbol of reliability, efficiency, and the dreams of a nation finding its wheels.The 1980s were a different era for India. The roads buzzed with two-stroke icons like the Yamaha RX 100, Kawasaki Bajaj RTZ, Yamaha RD 350, and the quirky Yezdi. For the family man, the Bajaj scooter was the go-to choice.
advertisementThen came the Hero Honda CD 100, a motorcycle that dared to be different. Its design was understated—chromed mudguards, a rectangular headlamp, a basic instrument panel, and a spacious seat. It wasn't built to dazzle but to deliver. Powered by a 96cc four-stroke engine, producing 7.5bhp and 7.2Nm of torque, and paired with a four-speed gearbox, the CD 100 prioritised practicality. Its top speed of 80kmph couldn't match the two-stroke speedsters, but its trump card was excellent fuel efficiency of 80 kmpl—a figure that felt like wizardry in its time.
Hero Honda struck gold with a marketing masterstroke. The tagline 'Fill it, shut it, forget it' captured the bike's promise of carefree, fuel-sipping rides. It was extremely fuel-efficient, which is what set it apart from the two-stroke bikes available on the market. Add to that the star power of Bollywood's Salman Khan, and the CD 100 became an overnight sensation. Its four-stroke engine and unmatched reliability set it apart from its two-stroke rivals, which often grappled with fuel overflow and frequent maintenance. For the average Indian, the CD 100 was a revelation—a bike that started every morning and kept going without fuss.
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The CD 100 was more than a mode of transport; it was a companion for life's journeys. It carried families to markets, students to schools, and workers to their livelihoods. Its legacy lived on through successors like the CD 100SS, Hero Honda Sleek, and the evergreen Hero Honda Splendor, which remains a staple on Indian roads. Even now, the CD 100 sparks nostalgia across generations.
As Hero MotoCorp forges ahead with modern marvels, the CD 100 stands as a testament to its beginnings—a simple bike that fueled India's dreams and redefined what a motorcycle could be. Long live the Hero Honda CD 100, an icon that still rides strong in memory.Subscribe to Auto Today Magazine
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