Honda scooter frames in Indonesia allegedly have quality issues, should we be worried?
Gilbert Chao · Sep 2, 2023 04:30 PM
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Our colleagues from Autofun Indonesia have been closely monitoring a very hot topic about the Enhanced Smart Architecture Frames (eSAF) used on popular Honda scooter models in their market.
A number of Indonesian owners of Honda models complain about pre-mature rusting and alleged material quality issues of the eSAF frames on their scooters.
What a relief!
The Honda BeAt Fi is now under the microscope in Indonesia because of frame issues. PHOTO BY GILBERT CHAO
It has already become viral, and sales of some Honda models in Indonesia, the Honda BeAT Fi, in particular, have already plummeted. The Honda BeAT Fi is one of the best-selling scooters in the Philippine market, and this issue could potentially affect hundreds of thousands of units here at home.
Upon learning about this, I immediately got in touch with Honda Philippines Inc. (HPI) first thing in the morning to ask for their comments on the matter. Before I could even finish my morning coffee, I already received HPI’s prompt response.
As far as I know, the BeAT Fi variants that we have here still use the good old tubular frame, so the whole debacle should not concern us. HPI confirmed that this is indeed the case, and Pinoy BeAT Fi owners have nothing to worry about.
We’re not out of the woods yet
The Honda CLICK160 uses the controversial eSAF frame. PHOTO BY KIT PILLA
However, HPI shared that eSAF frames have already been used on the Genio since 2019 and, more recently, on the CLICK160. HPI has yet to receive any complaints on eSAF frames for both models. Let’s hope it stays that way.
I’ve had a Genio demo unit with me for weeks, and I’ve had no issues whatsoever. In my opinion, it is the best-performing and best-handling scooter in its category. As for the CLICK160, I’ve only had a quick ride on it during its launch, so I’ve asked HPI for a longer saddle time to get to know it more intimately.
Could the Honda Genio also be affected by the Indonesia frame quality issue? PHOTO BY GILBERT CHAO
Why eSAF?
Using the eSAF frame decreases the weight by 10%, giving the rider a more comfortable, stable, and good maneuverability when riding.
The way I understand it, eSAF frames are made by welding together pressed steel, similar to the process of making automotive chassis. The legendary Honda Cub, the original version, uses a similar frame, and we all know how indestructible that bike is.
Are you a Genio or CLICK160 owner? What’s your take on the eSAF frame?
A moto-journo who spends most of his time on the saddle unless otherwise saddled with desk work. His curious nature and poor sense of direction often take him on unplanned adventures.
