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    in Electric Cars

    Kia EV6 Facelift Spotted Testing Again – Flagship EV9 Inspired Design

    New Kia EV6 FaceliftAs opposed to significant exterior changes with Kia EV6 facelift, interiors might be carried over or see minimal changesIn the push towards electric cars, Kia and Hyundai have been very active by launching multiple global vehicles and market-specific vehicles. First among the global electric vehicles from Kia was EV6 which is getting a mid-life facelift soon. Test mules have been spotted abroad and feature a radical new fascia influenced by its flagship EV9.Kia EV6 Facelift Spotted Testing AgainThe South Korean brand’s first EV for India is among the 28 electric cars that money can buy in India. It has been garnering good sales numbers too, where CBU vehicles are concerned. Even though EV6 is relatively new, Kia is keen on giving it a facelift that should eventually make its way to India as well.Just like the Carnival facelift recently unveiled, Kia EV6 facelift is inspired by the company’s flagship EV9 electric SUV. At front, we can see a heavily redesigned fascia. Kia has thoroughly camouflaged EV6 facelift test mule at the front, side and rear areas. Usually, camouflaged areas are the ones that will bear design changes.Going by that logic, we could witness a heavily reworked fascia, slightly different sheet metal stamping in profile and minimal changes with rear section. For starters, the headlights are now vertically arranged like on EV9 electric SUV, as opposed to horizontal arrangement on current model.[embedded content]There seems to be a new alloy wheel design along with slightly different lines and creases in profile. Rear gets new LED signature in its tail lights. However, overall tail light design aesthetic seems to have been retained from current model. Front and rear bumpers will see a revision too, bringing more aggression and flair to its design.Changes in powertrains?On the inside, we don’t expect much difference over what Kia is offering with current EV6 on sale globally. That’s not a bad thing as it has twin 12.3-inch horizontal displays, one for infotainment and other for instrumentation. Two-spoke steering wheel, physical switches and dials for crucial elements are notable aspects with Kia EV6’ interiors.Where powertrains are concerned, Kia is offering two versions of EV6 in India – RWD and AWD. Both of them get the same 77.4 kWh battery pack. Single motor RWD version boasts 226 bhp and 350 Nm, whereas dual motor AWD version packs 321 bhp and 605 Nm. Both these versions are based on GT Line trim.EV9 inspired headlightsWe hope Kia India launches the maxed-out EV6 GT with facelifted model. This GT version gets 575 bhp and 740 Nm with eye-watering 0-100 km/h time of around 3.6 seconds. India launch could happen in 2025. Official confirmation regarding the same is due. More

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    in Bike

    Benelli BKX 300 Debuts – New ADV Bike, Launch In 2024

    Benelli BKX 300 DebutsA lightweight, versatile machine, Benelli BKX 300 promises fun rides across off-road tracks as well as asphalt roadsFor budding enthusiasts, Benelli has unveiled an all-new BKX 300 adventure bike. It is primarily targeted at the younger generation of riders who have a greater propensity to move freely and explore new routes. Benelli BKX 300 will go on sale in China in 2024. It will also be available in multiple European markets.Benelli BKX 300 Debuts – Key featuresBenelli BKX 300 has a striking profile that instantly gets one’s attention. The bike has been designed at Benelli Style Centre in Pesaro, Italy. Overall styling is a fusion of conventional ADV signatures and progressive, futuristic design elements.Some of the key highlights include an aggressive front fascia, sharp headlamp with DRLs, large side panels, hand guards, sculpted fuel tank, rally-style seat and under seat exhaust. A dual-tone colour theme of white and fluorescent yellow brings more dynamism to the bike.Benelli has also introduced a road variant named BKX 300 S. It is based on the same platform, but has a distinct profile. BKX 300 S is more agile and lightweight, as it gets minimal bodywork. Both bikes are equipped with an LCD instrument display.Benelli BKX 300 ProfileBenelli BKX 300 specs, performancePowering Benelli BKX 300 is a brand new 292.4 cc, liquid cooled, four-stroke single-cylinder engine. It generates 29.2 PS of max power and 24.5 Nm of peak torque. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. The new 292.4 cc engine is an evolved version of the existing 250cc engine in use with Benelli bikes such as TRK 251 and Leoncino 250.A number of tweaks have been performed in the engine architecture, covering parts such as intake and exhaust valves, combustion chamber and transmission components. The counter balance shaft has been redesigned in order to increase reliability and reduce vibrations. An entirely new exhaust system has been used, focused on achieving a desirable torque curve.Benelli BKX 300 comes with a slipper clutch for smoother gear shifts. The bike utilizes a Trellis frame, integrated with 41mm USD forks at front, offering 180 mm of travel. At rear, the bike has a swingarm and mono-shock suspension with 180 mm of travel. The bike uses 19-inch and 17-inch wheels at front and rear, respectively.Benelli BKX 300These are shod with 100/90 and 140/80 tyres. Braking duties are performed by 280 mm and 240 mm discs at front and rear, respectively. Dual-channel ABS is offered as standard. Benelli BKX 300 weighs 165 kg and has ground clearance of 220 mm.Will Benelli BKX 300 launch in India?The bike complies with Euro 5+ emission norms, which makes it India-ready. Whether or not it is launched here remains to be seen. Demand for entry-level ADVs is on the rise in India. Benelli BKX 300 can be a good option, especially if made available at an affordable price point. If launched here, Benelli BKX 300 will take on rivals such as Himalayan 411, Yezdi Adventure and BMW G310GS. More

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    in Bike

    Royal Enfield ‘Reown’ Launched – Company’s Pre-Owned Motorcycle Initiative

    Royal Enfield Reown Program LaunchedReown offers a wide range pre-owned Royal Enfield motorcycles, allows for exchange and also facilitates sale of Royal Enfield modelsRoyal Enfield has launched a one-stop solution for customers to sell, purchase and exchange pre-owned Royal Enfield motorcycles. Reown outlets will be spread across cities of Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore and Chennai and offer buyers a completely hassle-free experience with the guarantee of fair price, easy transfers and complete documentation.Royal Enfield Launches ‘Reown’ ProgramBuyers and biking aficionados in India, who find the cost of a brand-new Royal Enfield bike beyond their economic limits can take advantage of these Reown outlets to pick up a pre-owned bike at a fraction of the cost.The love for a Royal Enfield motorcycle grows among the riding fraternity in the country. Purchasing such a bike that currently starts at Rs 1.93-2.25 lakh (ex-showroom) for the Royal Enfield Classic 350 and goes up to Rs 3.19-3.45 lakh (ex-showroom) for the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 could be a difficult proposition.To aid this, the company has introduced Reown which gives access to buyers of pre-owned motorcycles. The outlets are backed by trust, convenience and assurance and are a one-stop solution for a wide range of pre-owned Royal Enfield motorcycles.Bikes on Reown undergo 200+ technical and mechanical checksCustomers have access to both in-store and online services. They can sell or exchange their existing Royal Enfield bike and will be assisted through the process by a relationship manager for a hassle-free selling or exchange experience. Customers wishing to sell their bikes will have to fill up a form, to book an inspection.Each pre-owned bike undergoes a series of 200+ technical and mechanical checks and defective parts are replaced by genuine parts at Royal Enfield service centers. On purchasing a pre-owned motorcycle, the buyers are offered brand warranty and 2 free services while sellers can avail loyalty benefits of Rs 5,000 on genuine motorcycle accessories on their next purchase of a new Royal Enfield motorcycle.To ensure this sale, exchange and upgrade with ease, Royal Enfield has also entered into a partnership with HDFC and IDFC to offer buyers attractive finance options. Adroit Auto is offering its services for doorstep evaluation of motorcycles while Shriram Group will enable buyers to upgrade from other two-wheeler brands to Royal Enfield models.In related news, Royal Enfield has commenced deliveries of the Himalayan 450 in India. It is priced at Rs. 2.69 lakh (ex-showroom) for base Kaza Brown shade, while the top-of-the-line Hanle Black colour carries a price tag of Rs. 2.84 lakh (ex-showroom). In October, the company updated the RE Meteor 350 with new features and colour options and a brand new Aurora trim level has been added. More

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    in Bike

    Updated 2024 Kawasaki W175 Could Launch At India Bike Week

    2024 Kawasaki W175Kawasaki W175 will target a niche customer base instead of directly rivalling larger 300-400cc retro motorcyclesIf we consider the retro motorcycle segment, quite a few options start from 300cc. Some popular names include Royal Enfield Classic 350 and Meteor 350, recently launched Honda CB350, Jawa, Yezdi and Benelli Imperiale 400. Customers looking for a smaller capacity classic motorcycle would have to look at updated 2024 Kawasaki W175 to be launched at India Bike Week 2023.2024 Kawasaki W175 – Expected changesAs part of the 2024 update, Kawasaki W175 gets a few cosmetic updates. These updates have been teased by Kawasaki on a mysterious veiled motorcycle. New reports suggest that these updates revolve around 2024 Kawasaki W175 that will launch in India on 10th anniversary of India Bike Week held at Vagator, Goa on 8th December, 2023.As part of the update, we can see an alloy wheel with sporty pinstripes that replace the old wire-spoke unit of current model. We can expect tubeless tyres with alloy wheels, which is an added benefit over tube-type tyres. Kawasaki might offer new colours as well. W175 is locally manufactured in India and doesn’t enjoy a lot of popularity. Revised pricing should help 2024 Kawasaki W175’s cause. Currently, it costs between Rs. 1.47 lakh and Rs. 1.49 lakh (ex-sh).Available in Asian markets such as Indonesia and Thailand, Kawasaki W175 has a simple, yet elegant design. Round headlamp with chrome wrap, round ORVMs, fork gaiters, teardrop-shaped fuel tank and turn indicators, single-piece seat and broad rear fenders. Handlebars are ergonomically placed and footpegs are just below the front seat. These features should ensure comfortable rides for most users.Current Kawasaki W175Design and specsPowering W175 is a 177 cc, air-cooled motor capable of generating 13 ps of max power at 7500 rpm and 13.2 Nm of peak torque at 6000 rpm. It is mated to a 5-speed transmission. Power and torque output could be slightly different for BS6 version of this engine.Suspension system comprises 30mm telescopic front forks and swingarm dual shock absorbers with adjustable spring preload at the rear. Braking duties are performed by 220mm disc at the front and 110 mm drum brake at rear. Another thing that can work to W175’s advantage is its handling.The bike weighs 135 kg, which is much lighter than larger capacity retro-themed motorcycles. W175 can be expected to perform with greater agility in city traffic conditions. It could make daily commuting a lot more fun and comfortable. Folks looking to try something new or a smaller-capacity retro motorcycle could go for Kawasaki W175.However, considering the limited number of Kawasaki dealerships in the country, it will be challenging to unlock W175’s full potential. This bike can generate sales in smaller towns and cities. But currently Kawasaki dealerships are largely available only in prominent cities. It remains to be seen if Kawasaki has some special plans to make W175 available at more locations across the country.Source More

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    in Bike

    Honda CB350, CB350RS Brake Light, Bank Angle Sensor Recall

    File photo of CB350 at service. Image – Abhinav Bhatt.Honda will be providing free replacement of affected parts, irrespective of the bike’s warranty statusFor H’ness CB350 and CB350RS motorcycle users, Honda has announced a recall for issues related to the brake light and bank angle sensor. The recall is applicable on CB350 and CB350RS units manufactured within a specific timeframe. Repair and replacement work will commence from the second week of December. It will be carried out at BigWing dealerships.Honda CB350, CB350RS rear stop light switch recallThe rear stop light switch issue impacts CB350 and CB350RS units manufactured between the period October 2020 and January 2023. It has been noted that the issue is due to the rubber parts used in the rear stop light switch. It is linked to an improper manufacturing process being used for making the rubber parts. Due to the defect, the rubber parts become weak and develop cracks. This can lead to entry of water and moisture, resulting in corrosion inside the switch. Depending on the level of corrosion, the switch can start to malfunction.Honda CB350, CB350RS bank angle sensor recallThe bank angle sensor issue has been linked to improper sealing and subsequent entry of water into the sensor. It has been found that gaps were created in the sensor body sealing due to inappropriate moulding procedure. When water enters the sensor housing, it can lead to malfunction. In worst cases, the vehicle may stall unexpectedly. The bank angle sensor recall applies to CB350 and CB350RS units manufactured between October 2020 to December 2021.Honda’s recall for CB350 and CB350RS involving rear stop light switch and bank angle sensor has been issued as a precautionary measure. It is part of Honda’s endeavour to work proactively in the interest of its customers. The recall will ensure a hassle-free experience and help build trust and confidence among the customers.Inspection and replacement of the rear stop light switch and bank angle sensor will be done at Honda BigWing dealerships. The entire process will take around an hour’s time. It will be done free of cost, irrespective of whether the bike’s warranty is active or not. CB350 and CB350RS owners can visit Honda’s recall page to know if their bikes are covered under the recall. This can be done using the bike’s VIN number. Honda has requested users to take prior appointment for getting the faulty parts replaced.Second recall for CB350This is the second time a recall has been issued for Honda CB350. The earlier recall was in March 2021, around six months after the bike’s launch in October 2020. The earlier recall was linked to a defective transmission component. Units of CB350 manufactured between November 25th and December 12th 2020 were impacted by the issue. The defect was caused due to the use of a wrong grade of material during production. The problem was fixed free of cost for all affected units of CB350. More

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    in Motor News

    Genesis and Design House Bulgari Debut Gran Turismo Concepts

    Since 2013, the Vision Gran Turismo series has been churning out eye-catching virtual supercars that can only be driven in the video game, and now two more join the roster.The Genesis X Gran Berlinetta is a sleek coupe powered by a hybrid V-6 powertrain churning out a total of 1071 horsepower and 986 pound-feet of torque.The Bulgari Aluminium Vision Gran Turismo draws inspiration from one of the company’s watches and wears a roofless barchetta body reminiscent of 1970s concept cars.Way back in 2013—when Macklemore’s “Thrift Shop” was dominating airwaves, Barack Obama was president, and the youths were saying “swag” instead of “drip”—the racing video game Gran Turismo launched a series of virtual supercars designed by real-world automakers that could only be driven within the digital confines of the game. Vision Gran Turismo concepts have continued to trickle out over the years, and now two new entries have been revealed: the Genesis X Gran Berlinetta and a surprising entry from luxury fashion house Bulgari, stylized as the Bvlgari Aluminium Vision Gran Turismo. Genesis’s Sinuous SupercarGran TurismoThe slinky Genesis X Gran Berlinetta feels like a more extreme evolution of the stunning Essentia concept from 2018, with a low and wide stance and the latest version of the company’s “two lines” lighting motif first seen on the 2022 X Speedium Coupe concept. The smooth bodywork is punctuated by aerodynamic slashes and scoops, with the wraparound taillights poking through the ovoid rear fascia that swirls upward into a squat rear wing. Genesis says the X Gran Berlinetta has a drag coefficient of 0.34.Gran TurismoThe cabin is minimalistic, with a screen stretching across the dashboard and just a couple of physical dials that feature the same knurled metal finish seen inside Genesis production cars. A yoke-style steering wheel features a smaller, secondary screen and two dials, one to control the level of traction control and one to tune the amount of ABS intervention. The door panels and center console are wrapped in quilted leather, and the seats have a serious amount of bolstering.Gran TurismoSurprisingly for a car revealed in 2023, the X Gran Berlinetta is not electric. Instead, power is derived from a front-mid-mounted V-6 from Hyundai’s Lambda engine family, mated to a hybrid system. The V-6 is said to rev all the way to 10,000 rpm, pushing out 870 horsepower and 790 pound-feet of torque on its own. An electric motor from a company called YASA, which has seen its motors used in Ferrari’s SF90 Stradale and 296GTB, contributes 201 hp and 196 pound-feet, pushing total output to 1071 ponies and 986 pound-feet. No performance metrics were quoted, but we’d bet it’s pretty darn quick.The Fashionista’s Track ToyGran TurismoThe second new Vision GT concept comes from Bulgari, and yes, that is the same Bulgari known for high-end watches, jewelry, fragrances, and other luxury goods. The company’s first automotive venture, the Bulgari Aluminium Vision Gran Turismo, sports a chunky, wedge-like speedster body that feels reminiscent of 1970s concepts like the Alfa Romeo 33 Spider Cuneo. There’s also a hint of the roofless Pininfarina B95 revealed earlier this year. The design, said to be inspired by the Bulgari Aluminium watch from 1998, features crisp creases and simple shapes to create a bold and assertive look. Gran TurismoTwo thin LED strips flank a single bank of headlights that sit in the middle of the car and appear to be revealed by a fold-down panel, very similar to the setup seen on the Aston Martin Bulldog concept. The wheels feature blocky aerodynamic covers, and the brushed aluminum look gives the concept a DeLorean-like retro-futuristic vibe. The bucket seats and dials wear yellow accents, and aluminum also appears across the dashboard and steering wheel.Gran TurismoNo performance specifications were provided, but given the lack of openings in the Bulgari’s bodywork, we would have to imagine it uses an electric powertrain. The design was a partnership between Bulgari’s product creation executive director, Fabrizio Buonamassa Stigliani, and Fabio Filippini, former design director for Pininfarina who penned vehicles like the Sergio concept (later put into limited production by Ferrari) and another Vision Gran Turismo car, the Fittipaldi EF7.The Genesis X Gran Berlinetta will be added to Gran Turismo 7 in January, while the Bulgari Aluminium Vision Gran Turismo will join the game’s roster later in 2024. The Bulgari is the first Vision Gran Turismo from a non-car company, although two others have been teased in the past. Nike and Jordan have been listed on the Vision Gran Turismo site since 2013, and while a teaser sketch of the Nike exists, these concepts have yet to materialize. More Wild Vision GT CarsAssociate News EditorCaleb Miller began blogging about cars at 13 years old, and he realized his dream of writing for a car magazine after graduating from Carnegie Mellon University and joining the Car and Driver team. He loves quirky and obscure autos, aiming to one day own something bizarre like a Nissan S-Cargo, and is an avid motorsports fan. More

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    in Electric Cars

    1100th Hyundai Ioniq 5 EV Delivered To Shah Rukh Khan

    1100th Hyundai Ioniq 5 EV Delivered To Shah Rukh KhanThe all-electric Ioniq 5 was presented to Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan in celebration of his 25-year-long association with the brand as ambassadorThe all-electric Hyundai Ioniq 5 became the first electric car in the lineup of Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan’s extensive lineup of luxury vehicles. The 1100th Ioniq 5 car for India, was presented to the actor who has been brand ambassador of Hyundai Motor India Ltd (HMIL) ever since it first began operations 25 years ago.Hyundai Ioniq 5 – Flagship EVThe 1100th Ioniq 5 was handed over the Khan at a presentation ceremony wherein Unsoo Kim, MD and CEO of Hyundai Motor India Ltd., expressed his gratitude to the Bollywood superstar was his continued support and trust in the company. It became the first ever electric car added to Shah Rukh Khan’s personal collection.Shah Rukh Khan also expressed his honour to receive this all-electric Hyundai Ioniq 5 which boasts of a unique design and premium features. Hyundai Ioniq 5, Hyundai’s second EV offering in India, following the Kona Electric, was introduced at the 2023 Auto Expo earlier this year.It is an all-electric, zero-emission crossover SUV that is positioned on the much acclaimed E-GMP platform. Brought into India via the CKD route, sales have crossed the 1000 unit mark. The Hyundai Ioniq 5, available in a top-spec RWD version, is priced at Rs 45.95 lakh (ex-showroom).The Hyundai Ioniq 5 draws its power via 72.6 kWh battery pack sending power to its electric motor to produce 216 hp power and 350 Nm torque. The electric crossover commands an ARAI-certified drive range of 631 km on full charge and can be charged via a 350 kW DC fast charger from 10-80 percent in 18 minutes.Hyundai Ioniq 5 –Dimensions, Features, Colour OptionsHyundai Ioniq 5 is positioned on the Electric-Global Modular Platform. It measures 4,635mm on length, 1,890mm in width and 1,625mm in height, with a 3,000mm long wheelbase. This GMP platform offers the Ioniq 5 better speed stability, cornering prowess as well as enhances driving dynamics while its cabin is large and spacious.Offered in exterior colour options of Gravity Gold Matte, Optic White and Midnight Black Pearl, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 sports a clamshell bonnet, LED headlamps, flush door handles and gets distinctive creases on its exterior while it rides on 20-inch alloy wheels. Towards the rear, LED tail lamps and LED high mount stop lamps add to its sporty appeal while features include a 12.3-inch instrument console and 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system.Hyundai Ioniq 5 also receives an 8-speaker premium Bose sound system, dual-zone climate controls, ventilated seating and an automatic tailgate. Safety is via Level 2 ADAS, 6 airbags, electronic stability control and ABS with EBD. Hyundai Ioniq 5 currently has the Kia EV6 as its only competition in India but is soon to face up with the upcoming Skoda Enyaq iV, Volvo XC40 Recharge and BMW i4. The company is also actively testing the Ioniq 7, though launch in India is not yet confirmed. More

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    in Bike

    Aprilia RS457 Price To Be Announced At India Bike Week

    Aprilia RS457 PriceWith local manufacturing of RS 457 at its Baramati plant, Aprilia will be able to avoid high costs associated with CBU / CKD routeMulti-cylinder motorcycles in 300cc to 500cc segment are gaining traction and OEMs are lining their products to cater this new-found demand. Aprilia is among those OEMs, launching RS 457 at the 10th Anniversary of India Bike Week, scheduled to happen between 8th and 9th of December, 2023 at Vagator, Goa.Aprilia RS457 Price To Be Announced At India Bike WeekJust like various other OEMs, Aprilia is looking at India as a retail market as well as a manufacturing hub for exports. Domestic buyers will benefit, as they will be able to access Aprilia products at relatively lower rates. A relevant example is upcoming RS 457, which will be launched at India Bike Week between 8th and 9th December, 2023.Prices of Aprilia RS 457 were recently announced for international markets such as USA and Canada. Aprilia’s Diego Arioli – head of product marketing, motorcycles, Piaggio Group, has provided an approximate price range for RS 457 in India. He said that they are looking at a price of around Rs 3.75 lakh to Rs 4 lakh.In comparison, price in the USA is USD 6,799 (approx. Rs 5.65 lakh) for Opalescent Light and Prismatic Dark colours and USD 6,899 (approx. Rs 5.75 lakh) for Racing Stripes colourway. Canada looks relatively affordable, with prices at CAD 7,799 (approx. Rs. 4.7 lakh) and CAD 7,999 (approx. Rs. 4.84 lakh), respectively.Aprilia RS 457 ProfileThe bike certainly commands ambitious pricing, as it packs an aluminium chassis, a parallel-twin motor and a comprehensive range of electronic gizmos.Additional cost overheads for RS 457As RS 457 is an advanced racing machine, Aprilia has to invest resources in expanding dealer network and training their staff. This will be an additional cost for the company. In the future, more premium Motoplex showrooms will be opened across large cities. This will be helpful for Aprilia’s other big bikes as well.Made in India RS 457 will be sold across Europe and other markets. It will be largely the same across most international markets. As of now, India is the only production base for RS 457. The company can consider CKD opportunities at a later date for exports. Aprilia has manufacturing presence in Indonesia, Vietnam and three plants in Italy.Aprilia RS 457 at 2023 EICMAAprilia RS 457 has a 457cc, parallel-twin motor that generates 47 bhp of max power. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. Torque output and other key details such as top speed and time taken to reach 0 to 60 kmph are yet to be revealed.Weighing just 170 kg, Aprilia RS 457 has the best power to weight ratio in its class. It will compete with the likes of Kawasaki Ninja 400, KTM RC 390 and upcoming Yamaha R3. With a price range between Rs 3.75 lakh to Rs 4 lakh, Aprilia RS 457 will be cheaper than Ninja 400. Yamaha R3 is expected to be priced at around Rs 4 lakh. R3 will initially be a CBU import from Indonesia. KTM RC 390 will be the most affordable in the group, priced at Rs 3.18 lakh. More