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    Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Launch Price Rs 2.39 L – 3 Variants, 6 Colours, Brochure, Specs

    Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Roadster Launched: Power-Packed with 40PS OutputRoyal Enfield Guerrilla 450 has been launched globally. It is a premium modern roadster based on the Sherpa 450 platform. It is powered by the same Himalayan 450 engine. The sherpa 450 platform underpins its design and performance, boasting a 452cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine. This new motorcycle will help Royal Enfield boost declining sales.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Prices and VariantsGuerrilla 450 is now open for bookings in India and Europe. The introductory price in India is set at INR 2,39,000 (ex-showroom). Test rides and retail sales in India will start on August 1, 2024. In Europe, retail sales will commence in mid-August.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 PricesGuerrilla 450 is powered by a 452cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled Sherpa engine with a 4-valve DOHC setup. It delivers power of 40 PS at 8,000 rpm and torque of 40 NM at 5,500 rpm. More than 85 percent of its torque is available from 3000 rpm, ensuring a responsive ride. The engine features a water-cooled system with an integrated water pump, twin-pass radiator, and internal bypass. It is paired with a 6-speed gearbox featuring an assist and slip clutch.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 SpecsKey features of the Guerrilla 450 include a stepped bench seat, an 11-litre fuel tank, and LED headlights with integrated tail lamps. It has an upswept silencer and a steel twin-spar tubular frame. The front suspension comprises a 43mm telescopic fork, while the rear has a linkage-type mono-shock. The motorcycle rides on 17-inch front and rear tubeless tyres, with a 1440 mm wheelbase for stability.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 SpecsCategoryRoyal Enfield Guerrilla 450 SpecificationEngineTypeLiquid cooled, single cylinder, DOHC, 4 valvesBore x Stroke84 mm x 81.5 mmDisplacement452 ccCompression Ratio11.5:1Maximum Power40.02 PS (29.44 kW) @ 8000 RPMMaximum Torque40 Nm @ 5500 RPMIdle RPM1300Starting SystemElectric startLubricationSemi-dry sumpEngine Oil Grade10W40 API SN, JASO MA2, semi-syntheticClutchWet multiplate, slip & assistGearbox6 speedFuel InjectionElectronic fuel injection, 42mm throttle body, ride-by-wiresystemChassis & SuspensionTypeSteel, tubular frame using engine as stressed memberFront SuspensionTelescopic forks, 43 mmFront Wheel Travel140 mmRear SuspensionLinkage type mono-shockRear Wheel Travel150 mmDimensions WeightsWheelbase1440 mmGround Clearance169 mmLength2090 mmWidth833 mmHeight1125 mm (without mirrors)Seat Height780 mmDry Weight174 kgKerb Weight185 kgPayload w/ Standard Equipment191 kgFuel Capacity11 LBrakes TyresTyres Front120/70 R17Tyres Rear160/60 R17Brakes FrontHydraulic disc brake, 310 mm ventilated disc, double piston caliperBrakes RearHydraulic disc brake, 270 mm ventilated disc, single piston caliperABSDual channel ABSElectricalsElectrical System12VBattery12V, 8 AHHead LampLED headlampTail Lamp/Turn Signal LampIntegrated turn & tail lamp, all LEDOther EquipmentRide modes, USB Type-C charging pointCluster4 inch round TFT display with phone connectivity, full map navigation (powered by Google Maps), media controlsCluster (Base Model)Digi-analog instrument cluster (Tripper Pod optional)Riding modes and technology are significant highlights. The Engine Management System (EMS) and ride-by-wire technology provide versatility. Performance Mode and Eco Mode throttle responses enable riders to adapt to various riding conditions, enhancing both efficiency and fun.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450Info System, and AccessoriesGuerrilla 450’s infotainment system, the Tripper Dash, features a 4-inch infotainment cluster. It supports route recording in GPX format, music control, weather forecasts, and comprehensive vehicle information. The Royal Enfield Wingman MIY feature adds a layer of connectivity, enhancing the riding experience. Variants of the Guerrilla 450 include Analogue, Dash, and Flash with 6 options.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450A variety of accessories can be added to the Guerrilla 450 to enhance its functionality and style. These include large engine guards, sump guards, an urban seat, a tinted flyscreen, blacked-out mirrors, a bench seat, a silver sump guard, a headgrill, a Halcyon black instrument cowl, compact engine guards, bar-end mirrors, and soft panniers.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450Guerrilla 450 Roadster Variants and ColoursThe Borderless Warranty Program offered by Royal Enfield provides comprehensive coverage, ensuring peace of mind for Guerrilla 450 owners. In most Latin American markets, it’s known as Royal Enfield GBR 450. August 2024 Introductory Price list is as follows – Analogue Smoke Silver, and Playa Black – INR 2,39,000/-; Dash Playa Black, and Gold Dip – INR 2,49,000/-; Flash Yellow Ribbon, and Brava Blue – INR 2,54,000/-.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450B Govindarajan, CEO – Royal Enfield said, “When we started with the Sherpa 450 platform, we envisaged an adventure tourer and a superlative roadster that would be distinctly Royal Enfield. Developed in parallel with the Himalayan, the Guerrilla is tuned to perfection for city riding as well as weekend rides through twisty roads.” More

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    2W Retail Sales June 2024 Shows YoY Growth, MoM Decline – Hero, Honda, Bajaj, TVS, Royal Enfield

    TVS JupiterEven as MoM retail sales posted double digit de-growth of 10.36%, the 2W segment has experienced a 4.66% YoY growthThe two wheeler segment in India has experienced a 4.66% YoY growth in June 2024 in terms of retail sales. A shift in customer preferences, new and improved model launches and other economic factors brought in better sales results in June 2024 with sales at 13,75,889 units. This was a 4.66% YoY growth over 13,14,628 units sold in June 2023.However, MoM sales declined by 10.36% over 15,34,856 units sold in May 2024. The extreme heat wave that encompassed the country through June 2024 coupled with constraints in market liquidity caused this decline.2W Retail Sales June 2024 Vs June 2023Retail sales of two wheelers as revealed by FADA saw Hero MotoCorp, Honda and TVS Motor holding on to top 3 positions with combined market share of 71.57%.The two wheeler sales list was headed by Hero MotoCorp with 3,97,029 units sold last month to command a 28.86% market share. Sales however, declined over 4,27,203 units sold in June 2023 when market share had stood at 32.50%. Hero MotoCorp showed off the new Hero Destini 125cc scooter last month while earlier this month, the new Hero Centennial has been launched, limited to just 100 units.2W Retail Sales June 2024On the other hand, Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India has posted significantly higher YoY sales which improved to 3,51,422 units in June 2024, up from 2,83,398 units sold in the same month last year. Honda is currently expanding their portfolio in the adventure bike segment. Honda’s CRF300L and CRF300L Rally have been spotted on test runs. They will share the same 286cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine though no official timeline of launch has been announced.4.66% YoY growthTVS Motor retail sales also went up effectively YoY to 2,36,180 units in June 2024 from 2,27,163 units sold in the same month last year. Currently commanding a 17.17% market share, TVS Motor continues to see high demand for models such as the Jupiter, Apache, XL, Raider, NTorq and iQube.Retail sales of Bajaj Auto dipped to 1,53,535 units last month, from 1,63,536 units sold in June 2024. Market share also fell to 11.16% from 12.44% YoY. Bajaj Freedom 125 has just been launched in India. This launch is particularly noteworthy as it is the world’s first petrol+CNG bi-fuel capable motorcycle with two separate switches for petrol as well as CNG.Suzuki Motorcycle sales also went up significantly in June 2024 to 73,048 units, up from 62,682 units sold in June 2023 taking up market share to 5.31%. Royal Enfield however, suffered a setback in terms of retail sales last month. Sales dipped from 62,374 units sold in June 2023 to 55,249 units in June 2024. With the new Guerilla 450 set for launch later this month, the company should see better sales performance in the months ahead. It was followed by India Yamaha Motor with retail sales growth to 50,106 units in June 2024 to command a3.64% market share.Electric Two Wheeler Retail Sales June 2024The electric two wheeler sales in India are growing rapidly. Several factors such as favorable government policies, improvement in charging infrastructure and advancement in battery technology has boosted sales across this segment.Continuing its dominance in the electric two-wheeler segment Ola Electric was the best-selling OEM in terms of electric two wheelers with 36,723 units sold last month. This was a growth of 19,031 units over 17,692 units sold in June 2023. Market share also doubled to 2.67% from 1.35% YoY.Ather Energy also saw retail sales growth to 6,104 units last month from 4,603 units sold in June 2023 while sales of Greaves Electric improved to 2,713 units in June 2024 from 1,440 units sold in the corresponding month last year.Piaggio and Classic Legends have reported YoY de-growth in retail sales down to 2,669 units and 2,033 units respectively. There were other 2W OEMs that added 9,078 units to total retail sales last month significantly lower when compared to 12,294 units sold in June 2023. More

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    Kia EV6 Recalled In India Affecting 1,138 Units – Same Reason As Ioniq 5

    Kia Ev6With a large 77.8 kWh battery pack, Kia EV6 crossover SUV can go up to 708 km (ARAI certified) range on a single chargeWith growing demand for premium electric vehicles, Kia launched its first electric car in India in the form of EV6. Sitting on a global platform, it is one of the most sought-after in its class. Kia India has issued a voluntary recall for EV6 owing to similar reasons that its brand-engineered cousin, Ioniq 5, was also recalled.Kia EV6 Recalled In IndiaThe electric crossover SUV is among the most popular in India at its respective price bracket. EV6 offers a brilliant mix of design, modernity, features, creature comforts, performance, range and other qualities. With a tonne of style and substance, it has emerged as a go-to vehicle for young EV enthusiasts.Now, Kia India has issued a voluntary recall for EV6. Around 1,138 units of EV6 are affected by this recall and are expected to get a fix at no additional expense. These 1,138 EV6 units were manufactured between the period of March 3, 2022, and April 14, 2024.The issue with EV6 that has prompted Kia India to recall 1,138 units, is quite similar to what was seen with its Hyundai counterpart, Ioniq 5. Last month, Hyundai issued a voluntary recall for Ioniq 5, to address the same issue.Image – Visual Car ReviewsSpeaking of, the recall revolves around a potential error with car’s ICCU (Integrated Charging Control Unit). This error could potentially affect the performance of EV6’s 12V auxiliary battery that powers vehicular systems like headlights, infotainment system, speakers and even car’s climate control system.The software controlling this ICCU regulates the charge and discharge of EV6’s 12V auxiliary battery. As part of this recall, Kia will update the software of this ICCU and it should fix this potential issue with Kia EV6.What next?Kia has notified MoRTH (Ministry of Road Transport and Highways) regarding this voluntary recall. Affected Kia EV6 owners will be contacted and an appointment will be scheduled at the owner’s convenience. Software of said ICCU will be updated at no additional expense to the owner.Kia EV6In India, Kia EV6 is brought in via CBU route (Completely Built Units), unlike the Hyundai Ioniq 5, which is brought in via CKD route (Completely Knocked Down) for local assembly. Thus attracting lesser taxes. Kia EV6 packs a 77.4 kWh battery pack that powers up to two electric motors.Single motor RWD model has 229 bhp and 350 Nm electric motor that can go up to 708 km on a single charge (ARAI figure). The dual-motor AWD variant has a total system output of 325 bhp and 605 Nm. Rivals include Volvo XC40 Recharge, Volvo C40 Recharge, Hyundai Ioniq 5, BMW iX1 and the newly launched Mercedes-Benz EQA.Also read – 2025 Kia EV6 debuts More

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    Do Not Invest In CNG Bike, Not Worth Your While – Rajiv Bajaj To Rivals

    Nitin Gadkari, Rajiv Bajaj, Rakesh Sharma at the CNG Bike LaunchBajaj has filed multiple patents for its CNG two-wheeler platform, of which, around 3-4 are in final stagesAt the Q&A session of Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG bike launch, the interactions revealed some interesting facts and insights. For example, Rajiv Bajaj revealed how the Freedom CNG bike will challenge the might of Hero MotoCorp in the commuter segment. The Q&A panel also talked about the reasons why a larger CNG tank was not possible.Bajaj Freedom CNG motorcycle patentsResponding to a question about how many patents have been filed for Bajaj Freedom CNG motorcycle, the panel said that multiple patents have been filed. While an exact number was not provided, it was stated that around 3-4 patents are in the final stages. These patents cover various features and functions of the CNG bike. For example, the fuel tank packaging is unique, as there’s a CNG tank as well as a petrol tank.Nitin Gadkari and Rajiv Bajaj at the Freedom CNG launchThe objective was not just to make the dual-fuel system work, but also to ensure optimal safety for users. Bajaj has internally crash tested the Freedom 125 CNG bike, including being completely run over by a 10-ton truck. The bike passed all the tests without any damage to the CNG tank. The pressure gauge remained unchanged, with no leaks detected.Another patent is for the unique ignition system that does not utilize any starter motor. The bike comes to life with just the push of a button. It is also worth noting that Bajaj CNG bike can start directly with CNG fuel. There is no need to start the bike with petrol and later switch to CNG. A third patent is for the automatic switching mechanism between the two fuels. If the CNG tank reaches minimums, the bike will automatically shift to petrol and vice-versa.Bajaj Freedom CNG BikeHeavy investments – Don’t take the CNG routeAdding to the discussion about patents, Rajiv Bajaj said that the company has made significant investments in developing the CNG bike. On a lighter note, he recommended that other OEMs should avoid this segment due to the heavy investments involved. Below is the entire QnA with Rajiv Bajaj at the CNG bike launch, the part where he tells rivals not to invest in CNG bike is from 23:10 mark.[embedded content]Interestingly, there are reports that TVS has started testing the CNG version of its Jupiter 125cc scooter. It is expected to be launched in the next 3-12 months’ time frame.What does NG represent in the bike’s name?Talking about how the bike got the NG suffix in its name (Freedom 125 NG04), Rajiv Bajaj provided the complete details. While using CNG would have made the messaging crystal clear, this name sounded too mechanical. After a lot of research and discussion, the NG name was chosen for the bike. NG directly relates to CNG and it can also refer to the New Generation or Next Generation. It also sounds good, which is why it was finalized.On a funnier note, the company’s CFO pointed out that NG can even relate to Nitin Gadkari. It is Nitin Gadkari who has been making a strong push for greener fuels including CNG. He was present at the launch event and had unveiled the Bajaj Freedom CNG bike. More

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    2025 Bajaj Pulsar ADV Spied Testing Again – Reveals New Details

    Bajaj Pulsar ADV SpiedWhen launched, Bajaj Pulsar ADV is likely to be in a niche and attract a lot of buyers who want a high-riding ADV-styled motorcycleThe new Freedom 125 CNG motorcycle is currently all the rage in India. It has unprecedented popularity and is likely to be the hottest Indian motorcycle in the coming months. However, Bajaj is creating another buzz with an upcoming ADV style Pulsar motorcycle. It has been spotted testing for the second time, revealing new details.Bajaj Pulsar ADV Spied Testing AgainIf we take a look at Bajaj’s portfolio, we can see that the company lacks a proper ADV or even a faux ADV. In a time where ADVs and ADV-styled motorcycles are gaining popularity, Bajaj is diving into the genre too. Not that Bajaj never designed an ADV styled motorcycle.Bajaj Pulsar ADV SpiedThe company offered Pulsar AS series (Adventure Sports), which was discontinued owing to poor sales. Now, Bajaj seems to be at it again. This is the second time Bajaj’s upcoming ADV-styled motorcycle has been spied. The new spy shot is credited to automotive enthusiast Irfan Khan, who spotted it in Lonavala.We can see the bike from its exhaust side, showing interesting details from the side profile. Overall, Bajaj Pulsar ADV spied, looks a lot like Pulsar NS. So, Bajaj might be positioning its upcoming ADV on Pulsar NS platform boasting its tried and tested perimeter frame and the box-section swingarm.Bajaj Pulsar ADV SpiedNotable changes are the new front seat, which is scooped out quite a bit, to offer a low seat height. This is a common practice in high-riding ADVs. Seat is of split design and looks like it offers decent wiggle room. Fuel tank looks large and muscular with beefy tank shrouds. There is no bikini fairing and tall windscreen like Pulsar AS, though.Bajaj Pulsar ADV SpiedTail section looks very similar to Pulsar NS range, packing almost identical tail lights. Grab rail is a single-piece design on this upcoming Pulsar ADV, while NS gets a split design. There is a beak-like element protruding down from the headlight too, lending the whole ADV look.What to expect?Thie upcoming Bajaj Pulsar ADV looks like it has USD telescopic front forks. But the rear disc brakes and skinny tyres suggest that this could be a 125cc motorcycle. So, the beefy appeal from the front suspension area might be due to fork covers, similar to what we saw in Freedom 125 CNG motorcycle. So, RSU telescopic forks with beefy covers are most likely.125cc Pulsars are Bajaj’s best-sellers and sell like hot cakes when compared to other motorcycles. So, expanding this category further to include an ADV-style motorcycle might prove to be a good decision. LED headlights, LED tail lights, a fully digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth support, USB charging port, rear mono-shock suspension setup, 17-inch alloys at both ends and front disc brake are some of the features and componentry.Powertrains-wise, upcoming Bajaj Pulsar ADV is likely to come equipped with a similar setup as Pulsar NS125. So, around 12 PS of peak power, 11 Nm of peak torque, 5-speed gearbox, air-cooled engine, underbelly exhaust setup, kick and self start maybe the ballpark. More

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    Electric Car Sales June 2024 – Tata, MG, Mahindra, Hyundai, Kia, BYD, Mercedes, BMW

    Image – JayarajFADA reveals a total of 6,894 all-electric cars and SUVs were sold by leading automakers such as Tata, MG, Mahindra, Hyundai, Kia, BYD, BMW, Mercedes and othersElectric passenger vehicle sales in India are slowing, according to the latest data revealed by FADA for June 2024. Retail sales of these electric powered passenger vehicles dipped 13.51% on a YoY basis to 6,894 units in June 2024, down from 7,971 units sold in the same month last year. MoM sales also dived 9.74% over 7,638 units sold in May 2024. It was also declining sales as compared to 7,415 units sold in April 2024 showing off an ebb in demand over the past 3 months. Electric Car Retail Sales June 2024Tata Motors, with the highest lineup of electric passenger vehicles topped this list with 4,346 unit sales last month, commanding a 58.6% share in this list. This was even as the company has reported a 20.77% YoY and 14.50% MoM de-growth in retail sales of electric passenger vehicles as against 5,485 units sold in June 2023 and 5,083 units sold in May 2024. Tata Motors currently sells the Tiago, Tigor, Punch and Nexon in this segment while the company is in the process to expand their EV lineup to include the Curvv EV, Harrier EV, Sierra EV and others.Electric Car Sales June 2024 – YoY comparisonMG Motor, at No. 2 saw a 21.12% YoY growth in sales to 1,405 units, up from 1,160 units sold in June 2023. The company however, saw a 2.50% MoM de-growth from 1,441 units sold in May 2024. MG Motor has the Comet and ZS EV in its electric PV segment priced from Rs 6.99-25.2 lakh (ex-showroom). MG will be launching a new crossover EV in the coming weeks.At No. 3 was Mahindra with 446 unit retail sales last month, a 7.99% YoY growth from 413 units sold in June 2023 while sales significantly fell on a MoM basis by 20.92% over 564 units sold in May 2024. There is the XUV400 as the only model in this segment with the electric version of the XUV700 set to make its debut by the end of this year. Mahindra XUV400 EV is currently priced from Rs. 15.49 – 19.39 lakh.Electric Car Sales June 2024 – MoM comparisonCitroen reported a 26.76% YoY decline, but saw outstanding performance on a MoM basis with a 174.42% growth from 86 units sold in May 2024 to 236 units in the past month. Citroen also gained position on this list from No. 6 in May 2024 to No 4 in the past month. BYD India electric PV sales are much in demand. The company has experienced a 23.78% YoY and 40.99% MoM growth in retail sales to 229 units last month. There had been 185 units and 163 units sold in June 2023 and May 2024 respectively. Earlier this month, the company also revamped its Atto 3 lineup by adding three variants of Dynamic, Premium, and Superior as against a single variant offered earlier. The Atto 3 is now being offered at an introductory price ranging from Rs 24.99 lakh for the Dynamic variant, to Rs 33.99 lakh for the Superior trim (ex-showroom).Hyundai electric PV retail sales suffered a setback. Sales dipped as much as 61.88% YoY and 36.46% MoM to 61 units. There were 160 units and 96 units sold in June 2023 and May 2024 respectively. Sales could be boosted with the new Hyundai Creta EV set to enter production while launch is scheduled for later this year. Kia sales also dipped 61.54% YoY and 28.57% MoM to 15 units.BMW India Commands No. 1 Position among Luxury BrandsComing to luxury electric vehicle retail sales, BMW India topped sales charts with 50 units sold last month. However, this was a 50% YoY and 30.56% MoM degrowth when compared to 100 units and 72 units sold in June 2023 and May 2024 respectively. The company’s electric PV portfolio currently includes i7, iX, i4, iX1, all priced between Rs 67-250 lakh (ex-showroom).Mercedes Benz saw affirmative demand in June 2024 with a 10.81% YoY growth in electric passenger vehicles. There were 41 units sold last month, 4 units more than 37 units sold in June 2023. MoM sales however dipped by 28.07% when compared to 57 units sold in May 2024. Mercedes Benz has also expanded their EV lineup to include two new electric SUVs – EQA and EQB. These two add to the EQE and EQS launched earlier taking the company’s BEV count to 4 models.Volvo sales fell 6.82% YoY to 41 units from 44 units sold in June 2024, the company saw a marked improvement on a MoM basis by 17.14% over 35 unit sales in May 2024. Audi AG has seen outstanding demand for its electric passenger vehicle lineup that grew by 114.29% YoY and 150% on a MoM basis to 15 units in June 2024. There had been 7 units and 6 units sold the corresponding month of 2023 and in May 2024 respectively. There were others in this segment that added 9 units to total retail sales last month projecting an 80% YoY growth but a 35.71% MoM decline. More

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    Royal Enfield 250cc Motorcycle Gets Internal Go Ahead – Launch By 2026/27

    Image for illustration onlyWhen launched, Royal Enfield 250cc bike will take on rivals such as TVS Ronin, Bajaj Pulsar N250, Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 and KTM 250 DukeWith plans to conquer new territories, Royal Enfield is readying a new 250cc platform. It is reported that this option has been under consideration for several years. Only recently, the 250cc project has been given the green signal.Royal Enfield 250cc bike – What to expect?It is known that Royal Enfield is progressing with its plans to introduce an average of four models per year till 2027. However, not many were expecting a 250cc bike from Royal Enfield. A new 450cc model or even an electric bike wouldn’t have created as much buzz as a 250cc bike. The timing seems just right, as preferences of the younger generation are more in favour of compact, agile machines.Cost is another factor that can be advantageous for the upcoming 250cc bike from Royal Enfield. As of now, the most affordable RE bike one can buy is the Hunter 350. It is available at a starting price of Rs 1.50 lakh. The upcoming 250cc bike could be launched at around Rs 1.25 lakh. At this price range, Royal Enfield can target a broader segment of users. The new 250cc platform will spawn multiple motorcycles, further improving its reach and sales volumes. RE’s first 250cc bike will be launched around 2026-27.Increasing pressure to reduce emissions could be another factor that may justify a 250cc bike. Users will benefit from higher mileage, thereby reducing the fuel cost burden. It is reported that Royal Enfield is also evaluating the possibility of a hybrid option with the new 250cc engine. However, this is still on paper and may take several years to become a reality. From the emissions perspective, Royal Enfield seems closer to launching an electric motorcycle than a hybrid model.Air-cooled setup likelyRoyal Enfield’s new 250cc platform is internally codenamed as the V platform. It is expected to have a simple architecture, with an air-cooled setup. Something similar to the 350cc air cooled engine and not the liquid cooled Sherpa engine in use with Himalayan 450. With a simple architecture, Royal Enfield will be able to launch the 250cc bike at an affordable price point.Not the first Royal Enfield 250cc bikeWhile a 250cc Royal Enfield bike in the 21st century comes as a surprise, the company had many such options during its more than 100-year history. For example, there was the 225cc Model A launched in 1930. In 1932, the legendary Bullet had a 250cc engine as one of the options. Another example is the 250cc Crusader model, launched in Britain in 1957. Other 250cc Royal Enfield bikes include the Clipper and the original ‘65 Continental GT 250.Even bikes less than 250cc capacity were in production such as the 148cc Model Z ‘Cycar’, launched in 1933. Another notable mention is Royal Enfield 125cc airborne motorcycle, known as the Flying Flea (1939-1945).Source More

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    Bajaj Freedom 125 First Ride Review – The Dawn Of CNG Motorcycles

    Bajaj Freedom 125 First Ride ReviewMost notable attribute about the Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG motorcycle is its incredible mileage (fuel efficiency) claiming up to 102 km/kgBajaj is rewriting the books of automotive history by launching the Freedom 125 in India. With huge export ambitions, Freedom 125 CNG will be remembered in history as the one that started it all. The first, the pratham, la primera, o primeiro, la premiere. Bajaj had provided Rushlane with a review sample for a short time. This is what we think about the world’s first CNG motorcycle.Bajaj Freedom 125 First Ride ReviewFor a motorcycle like this, everything depends on pricing. So, let’s start with that. Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG starts from Rs 95,000 for base variant and goes till Rs 1.10 lakh (Ex-sh). It is to be noted that Bajaj is matching the base price with other premium sporty 125cc motorcycles. This is commendable move, considering CNG bike has added costs and complexities to account for. The base variant would appeal a lot to fleet operators, while top variant would appeal to individual buyers.Bajaj Freedom 125 First Ride ReviewBajaj decided not to offer a drab-looking motorcycle as their first CNG offering. Even if you take away the CNG wow factor, Freedom 125 is still a handsome looking motorcycle and a standalone quality. We get an exposed trellis frame, beefy tank shrouds, muscular front fork covers, stylish alloy wheels, attractive lighting elements, swanky colours, and a really long seat. Knuckle guards would have made the bike even more attractive.Bajaj Freedom 125Features-wise, Bajaj has offered a fully digital negative LCD instrument cluster that is equipped with Bluetooth connectivity. LED headlights, LED tail lights, side-stand engine cut-off, USB charging socket and sturdy hooks for practicality are some of the notable features. All these features make Freedom 125 feature loaded, practical and versatile, apart from being fuel efficient.Bajaj Freedom 125 First Ride ReviewEngine, Specs and MileageMain highlight of Bajaj Freedom 125 is its brand new CNG+Petrol bi-fuel capable engine. This is a brand new 124.58cc single-cylinder Bi-fuel unit from Bajaj capable of running on both petrol and CNG with up to 102 km/kg mileage from CNG and 67 km/l from Petrol. Bajaj could fit this CNG tank under the seat because of this engine’s sloper design of this engine. This whole CNG setup, however, weighs a lot and contributes significantly to the bike’s 147.8 kg kerb weight.CNG tank alone weighs 16 kg and holds 2 kg worth of CNG gas. This CNG tank is protected by the bike’s trellis frame. Because of this whole setup, Bajaj repositioned air box into the fuel tank area, hence pushing a small 2L fuel tank towards the right. According to Bajaj, total range from this system is 330 km, which is not bad for a commuter. Rider can toggle between CNG and petrol modes easily with the flick of a switch on left switchgear.Bajaj Freedom 125 First Ride ReviewThere is a noticeable performance gap between CNG and Petrol. In crude words, Petrol is like a “Sport” mode, while CNG is “Eco”. When compared to other 125cc motorcycles, Bajaj Freedom 125’s performance is a cut below. The 147.8 kg kerb weight slows it down further. Performance metrics are 9.37 bhp and 9.7 Nm. Acceleration is fairly brisk, but overtakes need planning. For a motorcycle geared towards fuel efficiency, performance is perfectly acceptable. We experienced a few false neutrals with the bike’s 5-speed gearbox. Clocking more kilometres may smoothen things out.We did a thorough mileage run on this motorcycle. But the pressure at CNG filling station was not enough refill consistently. So, our mileage test yielded 85 km/kg when run on CNG, which varies with Bajaj’s 102 km/kg number. We might do a proper 100% to 0% mileage run for a more accurate reading in the future. Even at 85 km/kg, Bajaj Freedom 125 easily has the least running costs of any motorcycle in India, owing to the lower price for CNG fuel.Bajaj Freedom 125 First Ride ReviewRide, Handling and ComfortBajaj Auto Has taken special care when it comes to comfort on Freedom 125. The seat is probably the longest in the world and has acres of space. Seat height is 825 mm and was perfectly fine for me (182 cm tall individual) and I could even flat foot without any issues. Rider ergonomics was alright. The bike commanded a slight lean towards the handlebar, but not stress inducing for city commutes in any way. Which is the primary intended use for this bike.Bajaj Freedom 125The bike felt sure-footed while riding in the city or brisker runs on the highway. Freedom 125 doesn’t lose composure when tackling bad patches of road and does a good job of handling road irregularities. There were a few thunks here and there from front suspension. During our short period with this motorcycle, we didn’t feel the suspension setup to be unnerving or worrisome. Braking power was adequate for the segment and intended speeds of Freedom 125.Bajaj Freedom 125 First Ride ReviewConclusionBajaj has put a lot of effort into Freedom 125 CNG motorcycle and it shows. It looks premium and unique, but still matches the base price of its 125cc premium rivals, despite packing additional CNG equipment. In our time with Bajaj Freedom CNG, we faced a few engine related niggles. However, none of these are expected to translate to the production model that buyers will get their hands on.Bajaj Freedom 125We felt like Bajaj could have added an engine stop/start system to eke out even better mileage out of its first-ever CNG motorcycle. We also felt Bajaj could have added an engine kill switch and navigation feature bundled with Bluetooth connectivity. Bajaj needs to come up with more methods to propogate the safety aspects of this motorcycle to nudge buyers. Because safety was one of the concerns a lot of people had with this motorcycle.Bajaj Freedom 125 First Ride ReviewThat said, Bajaj Freedom 125 didn’t have a single deal breaker that would prove to be off-putting for target demographic. In that regard, we think Bajaj has a winner on their hands in the form of Freedom 125. The future of CNG motorcycles is here and we liked it more than we thought we would.[embedded content] More