Showing posts with label 2012. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2012. Show all posts

Sunday, 3 June 2012

Royal Enfield might launch Twin Cylinder motorcycle in the next 3 years.

One of the best bike producing brands in India, Royal Enfield  is considering introducing a twin-cylinder motorcycle in India over the next three years.There was a buzz  last year that Royal Enfield could introduce
V-Twin or a parallel twin engine capacity ranging between 650 cc and 700 cc , but this time around it could turn into reality .
Royal Enfield Interceptor 700cc
In 1911, prior to the outbreak of the First World War in 1914, Royal Enfield they supplied large numbers of motorcycles to the British War Department and also won a motorcycle contract for the Imperial Russian Government. Enfield used its own 225 cc two-stroke single and 425 cc V-twin engines . So its not that Royal Enfield are constructing a twin Cylinder motorcycle for the first time , they have done this in the past as well .Not only this Royal Enfield used to make parallel twin motorcycles in the 1950s and 60s called the Interceptor, which features a 700cc, air cooled, parallel twin cylinder engine. Royal Enfield also made 500cc parallel twin motorcycles before the 700cc versions . They decided to discontinue it due to various emission norms laid by the Government .

The Twin Engine Royal Enfield is likely to be fitted with the pushrod engine system in line with the company’s current engine family, the new bike may be powered by a 600cc to 1000cc engine and cater to customer demand in the higher horsepower category. The main idea to keep the pushrod design is to maintain the classic appeal of the motorcycle, with the characteristic low revving, high torque nature that most Royal Enfield motorcycles are well known for.
Chief executive officer, Venki Padmanabhan told Autocar Professional that the design of the twin-cylinder model will not stray from the company’s traditions and that it will be an offshoot of the simple British design of the model of the 1950s and '60s.
Royal Enfield V-Twin Engines used in the Past .
Other two-wheeler manufacturers use overhead cam (OHC) engines in their motorcycles which are basically hi-speed and hi-torque engines whereas the Twin Engine Royal Enfield is going to be operated by pushrod design with an overhead valve(OHV) which are generally  hi-torque, slow-speed engines with a very rugged construction and develop maximum power at a lower rpm .

There is a higher probability that Royal Enfield might retain a Parallel Twin Cylinder  powered by a 600cc to 1000cc engine unlike the V-Twin layout which operates in the Harley Davidson Motorcycles .

These bikes would be manufactured in India only. One of the main reasons for bullet going into higher capacity bikes is that several other companies have launched powerful bikes and many people do buy them. And thus they planned to come into the game by launching higher capacity bikes and compete with brands like BMW, Suzuki, Harley Davidson, etc. And people would go for Royal Enfiled bikes as they know it from the beginning and being manufactured in India.
The Royal Enfield twin cylinder motorcycle could become a reality in the next 3 years

Tuesday, 15 May 2012

Honda Dream Yuga launched at a price of INR 44,642.



Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India has jumped to spot number two by overtaking TVS in January and February and now Bajaj Auto in the recent monthly sales chart .Their next target being Hero Motocorp which is way ahead of all these companies in sales .Honda has long seen the commuter segment being the backyard of Hero Motocorp , that's why this time instead of launching any high displacement bikes Honda has decided to launch their 110cc Dream Yuga at a price of INR 44,642.

Honda's Dream Yuga is a motorcycle which will enhance the joy of riding with style.In the heart of Dream Yuga is a 110cc engine which generates 9 BHP Power at 7,500 rpm. Dream Yuga has one of the longest seats in category to ensure superior riding comfort in long rides.

With viscous air filter, MF battery and Tubeless tyres (optional Tuff-up Tube), Dream Yuga is the Most Maintenance Free bike in mass motorcycle category.

Attractive and Unique graphics enhances the bike’s style. Dream Yuga offers best in class mileage of 72Km/Liter. It’s tough frame, strong grab rail and stylish alloy wheels provide higher reliability & value for money to the customer.

The Dream Yuga will compete against the likes of Hero Passion and the recently launched Suzuki Hayate which are around the same price tag .
The heat is only growing in the two-wheeler industry and Honda is increasing it further.

The Dream Yuga 110 is available in three variants, with the base version selling for INR 44,642(ex-showroom Delhi), the mid version for INR 46,134(ex-showroom Delhi) and the top end variant selling for INR 48,125 (ex-showroom Delhi)

That’s good news to the customers who will now get more value for money products at a lower price.

Thursday, 10 May 2012

2012 Suzuki Hayate launched, prices start at INR 40,162.

Suzuki Motorcycle India Private Limited (SMIPL) had launched two new models - HAYATE and SWISH 125 - on the inaugural day of Auto Expo 2012.

Suzuki Swish 125 ,their new automatic scooter has already found its place in many Suzuki showrooms across India. Now they have  launched the all new Hayate .It is a 112.8cc four-stroke engine, mated to a four-speed manual transmission. The executive commuter will compete directly against the dominating Hero MotoCorp Passion and Honda Dream Yuga

The Suzuki Hayate (110cc) is directed at the emerging Indian markets where customers want a bike with style for daily commute; expect good mileage and the best price . The 2012 Suzuki Hayate follows the features of the Slingshot with the mid-size fuel tank, flat running seats, raised handlebars and alloy wheels. The Japanese bike-maker entered the market with the launch of Heat and Zeus, both of which did not perform well in the Indian market .Slingshot about a year ago, which did not do so well either. Their only product which tasted success is the GS 150R due to its muscular tank and great mileage figures .The 2012 Suzuki Hayate might give Suzuki the leap it needs to improve its motorcycle segment in market.


SUZUKI HAYATE DETAILS AT A GLANCE :

- 110cc motorcycle for the commuter segment.
- Hayate - Japanese word for "Fresh Breeze".
- No mileage figures out yet.
- Nothing extraordinary about the looks, Decent!
- Black glossy paint finish engine.
- Tank graphics, clear lens head-light and tail-light. Alloy wheels.
- Very ordinary speedometer alongside a small fuel gauge.
- No disc brakes to be seen on the bike on display.
- 8 liter fuel tank capacity.

The bike name Hayate has been derived from Japanese word which means “Fresh Breeze”.
Being a Japanese engineered motorcycle, the 2012 Suzuki Hayate 110 promises reliability, good fuel economy and a low price tag.

The kick start version is priced at INR 40,162 (ex-showroom ) while the self start version has been priced INR 42,162 which is 2,000 more compared to the base version.
It is expected to deliver a mileage of  60-75km/litre
The Hayate will be available in five colour shades – Pearl mirage white, Metallic lush green, Pearl mica red, GL sparkle black and Metallic flint grey.

Saturday, 5 May 2012

Honda launches CB Shine 125 with two new colors and mild cosmetic facelift.


Honda is the world’s second largest two wheeler maker by volumes, second only to Hero MotoCorp and recently we saw Honda overtaking  India’s second largest bike maker Bajaj which is a segment leader in the premium category . Innovation and and regular upgrading their bikes has been the key to Honda's success and this time they have done the same thing .

Honda have come up with a slew of cosmetic upgrades for their commuter segment bike Honda CB Shine 125.The Shine now gets two new colors and graphics options on its body Force Silver Metallic and Monsoon Grey Metallic apart from its regular range of Black, Geny Grey Metallic and Rebel Red Metallic colors. Honda have also sported a new graphics job on the fuel tank to go with these new colors .
The changes also include Tuff-up tube tyres with spoke wheels which provide better resistance to punctures which are a common sight nowadays.

The engine of the bike remains the same which sports an air cooled 125cc, four stroke, single cylinder. This engine produces a peak power of 10.12 Bhp at 7,500 rpm and a peak torque of 10.54 Nm at 5,500 rpm. The engine is mated to a four speed gearbox via a manual wet multiplate clutch .
Honda CB Shine is a fuel efficient bike which delivers mileage figures of about 50-55 Kmpl and it is priced competitively as well ,the Honda Shine starts at a price of INR 47,804 (ex-showroom Delhi).

Tuesday, 1 May 2012

2012 TVS Apache RTR series launched ,prices start at INR 67,505.

2012 TVS Apache RTR 160.
Chennai based auto major, TVS Motor Company, announced that it would launch four new two-wheeler models this year. This year TVS were totally going to concentrate in the commuter segment to regain its charm in the Indian biking sector which has been toppled by Honda in the sales chart .
But recently TVS has come up with facelifted  Apache RTR series .

TVS Motors Limited has finally launched these motorcycle models officially in the Indian motorcycle market.
The 2012 TVS Apache RTR160 is priced at INR 67,505(ex showroom Delhi)  while the RTR180 is priced at INR 72,090(ex showroom Delhi) . TVS also offers the ABS version of the RTR180 priced a INR 82,780 (ex showroom Delhi)

TVS is geared up with the all new Apache series RTR, there are no performance upgrades changes are limited to design and styling of the bike .
In short TVS motors have come up with a cosmetic makeover with the engine remaining same .
There is some  makeover done to the dome, while few parts get the carbon fiber look, and of course, a new sticker job . It comes with brand new headlamp and front fairing along with new LED pilot lamps , this surely is the highlight of the new RTR series . New aerodynamic styling reducing the engine heat.
TVS has indeed made plenty of changes on the 2012 models of the Apache RTR

There were lot of expectations ,and speculations but now with the complete look of the bike being surfaced on the internet and also in the some of the showrooms the styling and design of the bike comes as a sheer disappointment for all TVS Apache series RTR fans as they wanted to see some aggressive looks in the bike.

2012 TVS Apache RTR 180

The list of changes in the 2012 TVS Apache RTR 160 :
  • New headlamp with pilot lamps and front fairing
  • Carbon fiber insert on the fuel tank.
  • New fuel tank scoops.
  • New set of graphics.
  • Carbon fiber insert around the instrumentation console.
  • New all-metal footpegs for the pillion.
  • New pillion footpeg mounts.
  • Redesigned side panels.
  • New leg guard design.
  • Redesigned seat.
  • New rear mudguard.
  • Redesigned saree guard.
The 160cc variant now comes with green, red. yellow and grey combinations with black being the base shade
The shades in the RTR 180 remain the same while the RTR 180 ABS gets a brand new black shade along with the existing pearl white.

Saturday, 28 April 2012

Crash Bobbins/Fairing Protectors for 2012 KTM Duke 200 by IndiMotard .


Motorcycle accidents are usually lethal and sometimes even fatal if you aren't properly geared while riding . You can escape from the accident injuries by various safety accessories available in the market but what about your motorcycle ?

Motorcycles  have a higher fatality rate per unit of distance travelled when compared with automobiles .
The most important part in your vehicle that literally saves you from the impact of an accident is the Leg Guard but what about the faired versions ??
Since you cannot fit a leg guard as the fairing will come in the way .
Nowadays people import Crash Bobbins also called as Fairing protectors which withstands the accident impact and saves your vehicle fairing .

Bascially Fairing Protectors or Crash Bobbins, are an accessory in motorcycles for the purpose of maintaining the bike's side fairings and internal components in the event of a crash, or preventing damage from dropping the bike. They are made of plastics such as Delrin, acetal, or nylon, or sometimes aluminum. The frame sliders are usually located and installed on the engine bolts on the left and right side fairings.
They help the rider to pull out his legs in case of an accident  .

Bajaj Auto has installed a leg guard in the KTM Duke 200  which is factory fitted and we must say they have tried not to spoil the design and styling of the bike by the installation of leg guards .
But there are people who feel that somewhere its doesn't go along with the style and design of the bike, these Crash Bobbins from IndiMotard are especially for such people . The bike looks cool and cleaner with the crash bobbins . Crash Bobbins from IndiMotard are sturdy and efficient enough to bear the brunt of the impact of an accident . IndiMotard’s crash bobbins/fairing protectors for the KTM Duke 200 are priced at INR 5,250 per set with all-India shipping included in the price.

To place your order or contact IndiMotard , refer the below mentioned details
info(at)indimotard(dot)com


2012 KTM DUKE 200 with Crash Bobbins / Fairing Protectors .


 

Thursday, 26 April 2012

Piaggio Vespa LX 125 launched at INR 66,661.


Recently we had reported about the launch date of Piaggio Vespa LX 125 on 26th April 2012 and here it is .
Piaggio’s iconic Vespa after so much of wait finally launched their LX125 scooter at INR 66,661 ex showroom Mumbai .

Vespa is making an entry back into India after a 13 years gap. Globally the Vespa has become a cult and has a massive following. Piaggio will be hoping the re-entry of Vespa into India will be received well. The company has confirmed the Vespa will be slotted as a premium scooter.

The Vespa was the world's first scooter & is presently sold in more than 100 countries and now. This launch took place at  Mumbai and following the event  there is going to be inauguration of the Vespa plant in Baramati on 28th.

High Points :



  •  The Vespa LX125 has a four stroke 124cc engine & an automatic transmission. No manual tranny on offer, nor does the front have telescopic forks. Electric start is standard. Kerb weight = 110 kilos.There is an under-seat storage compartment, as well as another storage spot behind the leg shield.
  • Piaggio Vespa LX will be incorporated with the air cooling and  electronic injection system.
  • Piaggio will offer a long list of accessories at its showrooms. Apparently, it will be possible to heavily customise your Vespa.
  • The first year's sales target is 30,000 units.
  • Piaggio's Baramati factory will make the Vespa. The plant has an initial capacity of 150,000. The Vespa will hit Indian roads on 26 April 2012 .
  • Dealer roll out in 35 cities. Existing Piaggio dealers will be part of the Vespa network, but only via new, dedicated Vespa sales outlets.
  • The Vespa LX125 will be made available in 7 colours- red, silver, yellow, orange, blue, black and white.
  • Price would be around INR 65,000.
  • The scooter is expected to offer a mileage of around 45 kmpl.
Technical Specifications:

Engine capacity- 124 cc 
Max Power-10.26 BHP @8250 RPM 
Max. Torque- 9.6 Nm @7250 RPM
Transmission- CVT
Expected fuel efficiency- 50 km/l
Weight- 114 kgs. 
Fuel tank capacity- 8.5-litres 

Considering the fact that the Piaggio Vespa will be introduced as a lifestyle vehicle, the pricing factor will surely be above the reach for people capable of buying scooters like Honda Activa, Dio, Pleasure, TVS Scooty Streak.

The deliveries will begin from the month of May, 2012. 
The color options in the Vespa LX125 Scooter include Black,White,Red,Yellow,Blue and Pink .
Though the price at INR 66,661 ex showroom Mumbai seems to be bit on the higher side but its still not too far.

Sunday, 22 April 2012

New Suzuki Inazuma 250 to debut in India by second half 2012.

 The Japanese motor expert Suzuki is planning for an entry in the premium sports bike market of India by debuting its New Suzuki Inazuma 250cc by second half  2012. Suzuki with its Indian partner Maruti has a good market in Indian car markets, but hasn't created an impact in the two wheel category. Being a tough competitor for its fellow Japanese rivals Honda, Kawasaki and Yamaha in foreign soils, Suzuki has decided deliver the same same in India too.

Suzuki was expected to bring in the GW250 to India, but the latest reports suggest that the auto major will introduce the Inazuma 250cc bike in India which looks ninety percent similar to the GW250. Well, there has not been much of details about the Inazuma 250cc floating in the net but the hint that it is similar to the GW250 has helped us in guess works.


The Suzuki Inazuma 250 is naked which gives us a good picture of its power house, the engine. Like the GW250, Suzuki Inazuma 250 will have a DOHC 250cc parallel twin engine. The peak power and torque capacities of the vehicles aren't known yet. As of now,  GW250's maximum power of 26 Bhp and 24 Nm of torque is expected to be delivered by the Inazuma 250.

Suzuki  brings its Inazuma 250 as a direct competitor to Honda CBR 250 ,Kawasaki Ninja and the recently launched Hyosung Comet GT 250R.
Though being a late contender in the sports commuter category in India, Suzuki will have an EDGE over its two existing rivals Honda and Kawasaki. If Suzuki manages to fix a price that falls below Honda CBR 250R and Kawasaki Ninja 250R, combat would become all the more interesting. Suzuki will bring the Inazuma 250 as the premium sports bike in India and entry level sports bike in foreign markets.

Saturday, 21 April 2012

Kawasaki Z1 900 Anniversary – A 40 Years Old Legendary Motorcycle.


Kawasaki motorycles are manufactured by the Motorcycle & Engine division of Kawasaki Heavy Industries at plants in Japan, USA, Philippines, Indonesia and Thailand. The motorcycles have been produced since 1954 and from there on the journey has been legendary for Kawasaki .
A brand that redefined the world Biking sector and took it all the way to the next level .

Kawasaki recently celebrated Z1 and First 40 Years of Z series that took the world by surprise then.Revealed to a stunned European motorcycle audience at the 1972 IFMA motorcycle show in Cologne, the impact and significance of the Kawasaki Z1 cannot be underestimated. After  Honda CB 750 Four K0 was released by Honda in 1969 , the world was at its feet and people from Biking fraternity thought this to be the ultimate machine . But to always outperform others was in Kawasaki's nature , they unveiled the all new Kawasaki Z1 900 at the motor show in 1972 which was definitely the highlight of the show .

The new Japanese motorcycle most advanced of all time announced startling references to time: 4-cylinder, 903 cm3, 82 horses, equipment and among other remarkable finish with four pots, its disc brakes, two tone metallic paint his . The war already that engaged Japanese manufacturers rose suddenly in strength. It was fatal to the European brands, unable to respond on the same standards. The war among the Japanese giants was so fierce that European brands only dreamed  to reach that level .
Though many versions of the Kawasaki Z 900 were produced following decades (Z1000, Z1000 ST, Z1R, Z2R, Z1100, GPZ 1100, Z1000J, Z1000R )

Kawasaki Z1, which is also referred to as the first superbike in the world, is the phenomenon that changed what superbikes aspire to be . Designed by Gyoichi Inmura , the Kawasaki Z1 journey is being marked this year world over. To mark this special occasion Kawasaki has planned a special tour of historical motorbikes in the Z series all across Europe during the coming year. This will end in a special exhibition to be held in October at the Intermot Show in Germany.

Check out the Kawasaki "So Far So Fast" video that features the 1973 24 hour endurance record on the Kawasaki Z1 at Daytona.

Saturday, 14 April 2012

KTM Duke 200 - Power to the Rider [VIDEO]

KTM 200 Duke is a special motorcycle, just as comfortable puttering around town as a zippy commuter bike or being thrashed while you attack your favorite section of twisty tarmac. KTM and Bajaj have certainly found a sweet spot, as the Indo-Austrian KTM 200 Duke has all the trappings of quickly becoming a best-in-class 200cc street motorcycle.



The baby Duke incorporates many innovations that are a first for the Indian motorcycling industry. From the beautifully exposed tubular space frame to the externally-braced rear swingarm, the Duke 200 sports a plethora of tasty technical bits that every biker worth his salt will go gaga over.
Catch the KTM Duke 200 Ride Review right HERE
For details about KTM powerparts and power accessories click HERE


Friday, 6 April 2012

Bajaj Auto sells 5 million PULSAR'S.


From a bike to a religion and from a religion to a mania...the Pulsar stands as a true testament to a counter-culture. A culture that challenges mediocrity, laughs at convention while imbibing a live free, ride hard spirit. Engraved in the DNA of every Pulsar is an attitude that is also translated to every biker, who gets his daily dose of pride riding a Pulsar.

Hardly had Bajaj thought that they would be able to sell five million units of the Pulsar brand, when they launched the bike more than ten years ago. During that time Hero Honda was in full swing with its Splendor , we could see every second person in India riding a Hero Honda Splendor . The only performance oriented bike were the CBZ and the Fiero to some extent .
People just used bike for commuting , what else can you do with a Splendor ??

But after Bajaj launched its Pulsar series , it totally redefined the Indian Automobile sector , you can consider it as a revolution . The launch was done with Pulsar 150 and Pulsar 180 . From there on , Bajaj never looked back and has still been going strong with the Pulsar brand.The mark of five million units is certainly an achievement in itself. The announcement of Bajaj Pulsar crossing the five million mark was made during the declaration of the last month’s sales report .

Generation of Bajaj Pulsar's
The journey for Pulsar series was full of criticism but inspite of all these barriers , Pulsar series was always received well among the customers which made the Pulsar brand successful .
Around the world only few brands have been able to reach this milestone , few of the bikes from Indian contingent who have reached this milestone include the Hero Honda Splendor , Hero Honda Passion and Bajaj Discover .

As far as Pulsar is concerned, it crossed the one million mark in 2006. In about three years’ time, the bike crossed the three million mark. It took only a year to reach the four million mark. Then within a year Pulsar rolled out its 5 millionth unit .WOW !!!

Bajaj Auto is now ready with an all-new Pulsar 200NS which might be available in showrooms by April end , if the bike is received well among the Pulsar Maniacs then there is no stopping the Pulsar which might double its pace in the current financial year.

Thursday, 5 April 2012

Honda overtakes Bajaj Auto as the second-largest player in the country's two-wheeler market.

Honda is the world’s second largest two wheeler maker by volumes, second only to Hero MotoCorp . After its alliance with Hero was over , Honda was all on its own in the unpredictable Indian Market . After overcoming all these barriers Honda did manage to tighten its grip without Hero's assistance .

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India had jumped to spot number 3 in overtaking TVS in January and
February.  The next target was to overtake India’s second largest bike maker Bajaj which is a segment leader in the premium category. Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) had recorded an 11.2% sales growth in February over the previous month at 1.97 lakh units. The company was just short by 7000 units .

But for the first time Honda overtook  Bajaj Auto as the second-largest player in the country's two-wheeler market . Hero Motocorp continues to be the market leader by selling  a whopping 5 lakh plus two wheelers in March 2012 . TVS is currently in the 4th spot , way behind the leaders in terms of monthly and annual sales.

Honda managed to sell 212,812 units, higher than Bajaj Autos 201,183 units, in March 2012. But Bajaj Auto need not worry since 35% of Bajaj Auto Limited's sales are overseas . Not only that , Bajaj is way ahead of Honda in terms of Annual sales .
This battle between them is going to intensify  in coming days, particularly with Honda's entry into entry-level segment.

Honda plans to launch the Dream Yuga 110 commuter motorcycle by may end ,
To know more click HERE

Bajaj Auto tightens its hold on KTM Power Sports by buying another 6.3% stake.


Bajaj Auto has tightened its grip over the Austrian Motorcycle KTM by buying another 6.3%, taking its total tally in the Austrian motorcycle to a little over 47% . Bajaj Auto is the second-largest shareholder in KTM. Other large shareholders include Stefan Pierer and Rudolf Knuenz-hold more than 51% stake. Currently Bajaj Auto are only willing to be the minority stake holders in the Austrian Motorcycle KTM .

Bajaj and KTM are working together well as a team , KTM is helping Bajaj by providing technical assistance whereas Bajaj has provided a great platform for KTM to launch its Duke series under its name . Bajaj launched the KTM Duke 200 a few weeks ago , and the response that the Duke 200 is receiving is tremendous .

Over the next few years now Bajaj Auto,  will launch bigger and more powerful Pulsar and KTM motorcycle models in the 200cc to 700 cc range will take on rivals Honda, Yamaha and Suzuki and build on its leadership position in the premium motorcycle space.
Bajaj aims to position the Pulsar in the value-for-money sports bike segment and Austrian partner KTM's motorcycles at the premium end of the market.

This strategy of KTM-Pulsar acting together in the sports segment is a valid strategy anywhere in the world not just in India and they will look at leveraging this in many of the overseas markets in Latin America, Africa and South East Asia .

Monday, 2 April 2012

Bajaj Auto Dealers open bookings of the 2012 Pulsar 200NS ?


Bajaj Auto finally unveiled their all new motorcycle, 2012 Pulsar in India on 30th January . Bajaj did not reveal the price of new Pulsar motorcycle at the launch but it was speculated to be somwhere around INR 80,000 to 90,000 . Bajaj new Pulsar 2012 variant is christened as Pulsar 200 NS and is expected to be released in this month.

Though there is no official news from about Bajaj about the booking of the all new Pulsar 200NS , but we came to know from our sources that few Dealers have already started taking bookings of the Pulsar 200NS .
Though we are not sure whether this is a rumor or in reality . But if it has really started then this move by the dealers could give hardcore Pulsar fans an edge when the official bookings of the Bajaj pulsar 200NS starts later this month .

Its been a just over 10 years since we in India were introduced to the Pulsar series from Bajaj. We saw it grow from strength to strength year by year and saw a lot of changes that made this motorcycle a favorite to many. Many engine variations, even more design changes and a lot more small bits that were added made every iteration of the Pulsar family all the more special over the years .Pulsar 200NS is the outcome of their 10 years of experience and supremacy in the Indian Market .



About the beast ,Pulsar 200 NS engine will have 3 sparks - Triple Spark Ignition System instead of the traditional twin - spark system which are seen in the current Pulsar motorcycles. Pulsar 200 NS is powered by a 199.5 cc engine that will generate a maximum power of 23 bhp @ 9,500 rpm and will deliver a maximum torque of 18.3 Nm at 8,000 rpm. Bajaj will manufacture Pulsar 200 NS at their unit in Chakan near Pune.

Dry weight of new Pulsar 200 NS is 145 kgs. Bajaj new Pulsar 200 NS will have a top speed of 136 kmph, making it one of the fastest motorcycle made by Indian manufacturer. Bajaj new Pulsar 200 NS will be able to accelerate from 0-60 kmph in just 3.8 seconds while it will take just 9.8 seconds to cross 0-100 kmph mark. Apart from these exceptional figures, Pulsar 200 NS delivers a mileage of 58 kmpl when driven at a constant speed 55 kmph.

Another big announcement coming from the sidelines of the 2012 Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS unveil is that Bajaj Auto is already working on a fully faired variant of the Pulsar 200 NS not only that  Bajaj has added more enthusiasm by announcing the launch date of the Bajaj Pulsar 350.

To know more about Full Faired Pulsar 200NS click HERE
and about the Pulsar 350cc click HERE

Saturday, 31 March 2012

Hero Mototcorp's Maestro 110cc Automatic Scooter launched in Goa .


India’s Hero MotoCorp, which recently separated from Japan’s Honda, had announced the launch of two motorcycles and a scooter, a scooter 110cc Maestro, the 110cc Passion X Pro and the 125cc Ignitor. All three models have been launched under the new Hero brand name.

There is no official news about the exact launch date of 110cc Passion X pro and 125cc Ignitor , but recently
the 110cc Maestro Scooter was launched in Goa . This is the second product under the Hero MotoCorp brand and also the second scooter after the Pleasure.

The Maestro is priced at Rs. 48,280 Ex-showroom Goa and Rs. 52,872 on road price.


Features of Hero Maestro at a Glance :

- 109cc petrol engine
- Maximum power of around 8.2 bhp
- Maximum torque of around 9 nm
- Combined Braking System for simultaneous application of front and rear brakes
- Digital Analog Combo Meter Console with Service Due Indicator
- Multi-lever key with Magnetic head and shutter
- Bold trapezoidal multi-focal reflector headlamp and striking front visor
- Combination tail lamp and clear lens winkers
- Comfortable wide seat, Stylish rear grab rails, Large storage space
- Maintenance free battery, Viscous Paper Pleated Air Filter

Hero Maestro houses the same engine of Honda Activa, which made Honda a major player on the Indian market with its most reliable engine.

Hero Maestro is available in six shades: Panther Black Met, Pearl Fadeless White, Force Silver Met, Pearl Harvest Green, Candy Blazing Red and Maestro Blue Met.

Friday, 30 March 2012

2012 KTM duke 200 Powerparts and Power Wear Accessories .


KTM, the famous Austrian bike maker, along with Bajaj recently launched their street bike, Duke 200, in India. Indian KTM representatives felt that there is demand for the bike in some of the tier II and tier III cities and are planning to establish the dealership in such cities very soon.

Young bike enthusiasts expect a complete biking experience from the company. Apart from the machines, KTM is also famous for its wide range of merchandise and apparels in countries where KTM bikes are already sold. In order to expand the business and generate brand awareness in India, Bajaj Auto Limited, the country’s second-largest two-wheeler maker, is all set to power its newly-launched Duke 200 – a naked style street fighter motorcycle from its Austrian partner KTM’s stable – with the launch of KTM's Power Parts and Power Wear accessories and merchandise .

The Duke 200 has a range of accessories, right from the likes of the visual mods like stickers and headlight masks to the more serious stuff like petal disc brakes and the Akrapovic free flow exhaust but in India KTM dealers only have visual mods rather than the performance oriented stuffs .

Regarding the price of the KTM Duke 200 powerparts ,the visual mods like sticker sets will cost you around INR 1,000 , that according to us is on a higher side . If the visual mods are priced so high , then imagine the cost of performance oriented parts like Akrapovic exhaust and petal disc brakes .

We must say KTM have found a great way to advertise their brand .
What better way to get free advertisement than selling company branded merchandise. The merchandise should be available in your nearest KTM Store .

The 200 cc plus premium motorcycle market has been heating in the country with several global makers aiming the space with new launches , all the machines are good performers but the key to tighten your grip in the Indian Market is the competitive pricing of the bikes .
The battle is on and its going to get fierce as 250cc segment is going to heat up further with the release of Hyosung GT250R in the month of May .

KTM Duke 200 Powerparts and Power Wear Accessories .

                           

                         
image courtesy

Thursday, 29 March 2012

Piaggio Vespa LX 125 to be launched on the 26th of April, 2012 .


Piaggio had recengtly unveiled the iconic italian scooter ‘Vespa’ during the 2012 Delhi Auto Expo. Vespa is making an entry back into India after a 13 years gap. Globally the Vespa has become a cult and has a massive following. Piaggio will be hoping the re-entry of Vespa into India will be received well. The company has confirmed the Vespa will be slotted as a premium scooter.

 The Vespa was the world's first scooter & is presently sold in more than 100 countries and now, the news is that the Italian two wheeler manufacturer will be launching the Vespa brand in country on 26 April 2012. This launch event is scheduled to take place in Mumbai and following the event will be the inauguration of the Vespa plant in Baramati on 28th.


High Points :





  •  The Vespa LX125 has a four stroke 124cc engine & an automatic transmission. No manual tranny on offer, nor does the front have telescopic forks. Electric start is standard. Kerb weight = 110 kilos.There is an under-seat storage compartment, as well as another storage spot behind the leg shield.
  • Piaggio Vespa LX will be incorporated with the air cooling and  electronic injection system.
  • Piaggio will offer a long list of accessories at its showrooms. Apparently, it will be possible to heavily customise your Vespa.
  • The first year's sales target is 30,000 units.
  • Piaggio's Baramati factory will make the Vespa. The plant has an initial capacity of 150,000. The Vespa will hit Indian roads on 26 April 2012 .
  • Dealer roll out in 35 cities. Existing Piaggio dealers will be part of the Vespa network, but only via new, dedicated Vespa sales outlets.
  • The Vespa LX125 will be made available in 7 colours- red, silver, yellow, orange, blue, black and white.
  • Price would be around INR 65,000.
  • The scooter is expected to offer a mileage of around 45 kmpl.
Technical Specifications:

Engine capacity- 124 cc 
Max Power-10.26 BHP @8250 RPM 
Max. Torque- 9.6 Nm @7250 RPM
Transmission- CVT
Expected fuel efficiency- 50 km/l
Weight- 114 kgs. 
Fuel tank capacity- 8.5-litres 

Considering the fact that the Piaggio Vespa will be introduced as a lifestyle vehicle, the pricing factor will surely be above the reach for people capable of buying scooters like Honda Activa, Dio, Pleasure, TVS Scooty Streak.
The bookings will begin immediately after the launch, while the deliveries will begin from the month of May, 2012. 
Stay tuned to know more on the new Piaggio Vespa LX 125.

Tuesday, 27 March 2012

New Honda CBR150R vs Yamaha YZF-R15 V2.0 : Game On.


Honda surprised us in a very sweet way, when it unveiled the CBR150R at the 2012 Delhi Auto Expo.
Honda has definitely upped its ante in the 150cc segment and this bike will go in head to head competition with the currently popular Yamaha R15. Yamaha launched the latest version of the R15 last year, called R15 Version 2.0. Here we quickly take a look at how does both these bikes feature and would the CBR150R really give a tough time to the R15 Version 2.0.


Technical Specifications :
Honda's new CBR150R comes with a Twin Tube frame construction Diamond, while the Yamaha YZF-R15 Version 2.0 brings the delta box.

Honda's new CBR150R machine type carries CS150RE, Liquid-Cooled, 4-Step, DOHC, single-cylinder 149.4 cc, and the diameter measures 63.5 x 47.2 times. 11,0:1 compression ratio engine. Machines capable of burst power up to 17.55 hp at 10,500 rpm engine speed and maximum torque of 12.66 Nm at 8500 rpm. Supply of power and torque output is channeled to the rear wheels through a 6-speed transmission.

Honda's new CBR150R supported tank capacity 13.1 liters of fuel supply and injection system (PGFM-FI). Rival Yamaha YZF-R15 V2.0 given ammunition type Liquid-cooled engine, 4-Step, SOHC, single cylinder 149.8 cc, and the diameter measures 57 x 58.7 times. 10,4:1 compression ratio engine. Machines capable of burst power up to 16.76 hp at 8500 rpm engine speed and maximum torque of 15 Nm at 7500 rpm. Supply of power and torque output is channeled to the rear wheels through a 6-speed transmission.
Yamaha YZF-R15 V2.0 supported tank capacity 12 liters of fuel supply and injection system.

From the technical data is visible if on paper, Yamaha YZF-R15 will excel at the lower and middle engine speed. This is not apart from the character-type SOHC engine and under square (57 x 58.7), which incidentally makes more pull evenly from under the engine rev up the middle. It is also seen from the torque output of the Yamaha YZF-R15 V2.0 that is superior to 15 Nm at a lower engine speed 7500 rpm . Thus from these technical statistics we can say that ,
Power is a bit more in the CBR150R but when it comes to torque Yamaha R15 wins with 15Nm at 7,500rpm while CBR150R manages only 12.66Nm at 8,500rpm.

There is little difference in weight of both bikes with CBR150R weighing 138Kgs and R15 weighing 136Kgs. Ground clearance is bit more in CBR150R with 190mm while in R15 its 160mm only. Another important factor is the rear seat in R15 which is not suitable for long rides specially in India while the one on CBR150R is nice with grab rails.





Bikoholic verdict :

To measure the functional as an urban vehicle with a level of congestion and traffic flow "stop and go" high, it seems Yamha YZF-R15 V2.0 is more fitting as an option. Besides the issue of a lower purchase price, at least there is an excess of this Yamaha lineup, the posture is more petite. Although for the affairs of a little less maneuverable than its rivals.

While the new Honda CBR150R with posture and weight are a bit more gambot more fitting as a lifestyle vehicle or night life, where traffic is not too dense. Thus the rider can feel a powerful performance in a lap top. Or as an option as a vehicle short and medium distance touring. Sensation on the new Honda CBR150R will be more valued for the winding road full of bends or straight line that takes a long pull. Moreover, the support device front brakes are superior to its rivals.

So now the question now arises is whether CBR150R  better than the R15. Yamaha fans disagree that no 150cc Indian bike is a threat to Yamaha r15 due to its aggressive & beautiful styling with colorful side fairing & also the fact that Yamaha launched new colors for R15 version 2.0 at the Auto Expo 2012.

Talking about the Mileage and Top Speed of these two beasts , both the bikes deliver around 35 to 40Kmpl depending upon how you ride or maintain it and top speed around 135Kmph. But one factor in which Yamaha R15 V2.0 scores is its pricing ,there is difference of INR 10,000 in price of both bikes. Yamaha R15 costs around Rs.1.7L ex-showroom while Honda CBR150R is almost Rs.10,000 costly and the cost is Rs.1.16L ex-showroom
The game in the 150cc segment has just got more interesting !

Now is your turn to determine dreams and needs between the two ...

Monday, 26 March 2012

Mahindra Racing Team wins 2012 ITALIAN 125GP CHAMPIONSHIP .



In 2008, Mahindra & Mahindra acquired Italy’s Engines Engineering, who had been constructing race bikes and providing specialised components and technical support for teams in MotoGP since 2003.


Last January, Mahindra Racing was unveiled and with it a new set of dreams unfolded as an Indian team featured in Moto3 for the first time and this year they featured in 2012 ITALIAN 125GP CHAMPIONSHIP

The Italian Championship is the leading national track competition in Italy and a launch pad for Italy’s best young motorcyclists as they head towards the international arena. It is staged on the country’s best racetracks from March to October over six weekends and has 8 rounds. The event is organised by FMI

The Italian Championship has been a launch pad for many well known names in MotoGP. Valentino Rossi -The  Legend of MotoGP is one of them .


Mahindra Racing Team's road to victory .
Italian rider Ricardo Moretti earned a remarkable victory for Mahindra Racing Team in the season-opening race of the 125GP Italian Championship at the Mugello Circuit on Sunday. Sarath Kumar was unfortunately forced into an early retirement due to a technical issue. It was Sarath Kumar's first weekend on the Italian track

Moretti started the race from the pole, thanks to the outstanding performance displayed in the two qualifying sessions. He consolidated his position up front with a swift starton Sunday and quickly extended his lead. Such was his dominance that Moretti opened up a 10-second gap over the second-placed racer , while Kumar got off from the 8th row - the 22nd spot on the grid.

Moretti got a good start in the race as he maintained the lead which he quickly extended. Kumar, on the other hand, didn't get the best of the starts but was able to settle into a good rhythm and overtook several riders.


As the race went into its second half, Moretti's advantage on the runner-up grew to an amazing ten seconds , while Kumar kept pushing hard before being forced to pull up with an early retirement due to a technical problem and wasn't able to complete the race with just 3 laps to go , it was an unfortunate incident for the young Indian rider .

The race ended with an overpowering victory for Moretti, who crossed the finish line with a big margin over the rest of the field.

Riccardo Moretti credited his performance to the pre-season testing done by Mahindra .
"We started this season in the best way possible. My start from the grid was a good one and since I was in the lead I tried to push at my best to get the best margin possible," Riccardo Moretti said .

Saturday, 24 March 2012

Suzuki Motorcycles to spend Rs 2,000 crore for Rohtak plant .


The Government of Haryana on Friday gave a green signal to Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt Ltd's proposal to establish a plant in three phases at Rohtak, entailing an investment of Rs 2000 Crore .

The project will be done in three phases. During the first phase the company will invest around Rs 500  crore which will be completed in 2014 with a capacity of 5 lakh units per year . The project will be completed by 2019 and after the full functioning of the plant , it would be able to churn out 20 lakh units per year which is an astonishing figure .

Currently Suzuki Motorcycle India operates a manufacturing plant in Gurgaon having annual capacity of 2.5 lakh  units per year .
Overall Suzuki is going about their business not in a rapid pace however in a very ambitious pace. Suzuki needs to step on the accelerator to stay in the league of other motorcycle companies operating in India.


Recently the company had launched the Suzuki Swish motorcyle for the Indian roads. Click here to read more.
Do you own a suzuki motorcycle or are you considering one in the near future , this plant will sure help Suzuki to boost up their production and improve their services? 

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