Aurelia Butler

BMW 350cc Scooter – C400GT and its first owner in IndiaBMW C400 GT Maxi-Scooter has been launched with tag line “Get ready to conquer the urban life”
BMW C400 GT is a 350cc, mid-capacity maxi-scooter from the German manufacturer. It has now been launched in India for a starting price of Rs 9.95 lakhs, ex-sh. While the price may seem a lot for a 350cc scooter, it may be mentioned that its price in global markets is between Rs 6-7.5 lakh. In India, it has arrived as a complete CBU (Completely Built Unit), which adds to the pricing.
Boasting of sporty design and premium features BMW C400 GT targets a niche customer base in India. It will receive a range of modern features among which will be a 6.5 inch TFT instrument cluster with smartphone and compatible with BMW Motorrad connectivity, LED lighting at the front and rear.
It will also get handle mounted multi controller for access to calls, music and contacts, heated grips and socket, USB charging port, ride by wire technology and a stepped up saddle and grab handles. The feature list goes on to include keyless ignition, an upswept exhaust, split style footboard, illuminated underseat storage and self-calibrating ASC.
BMW Scooter First Owner In India
First owner of the new scooter, Swaranjit Bajaj has taken delivery from Navnit BMW Motorrad in Mumbai. Images here are credit to Vinod Nareshan (@itsvinodn), which were taken on the launch day itself.
BMW Scooter First Owner In India
BMW C400GT will receive cast aluminum wheels fitted with wide tyres measuring 15 inch front and 14 inch rear. It will be presented in colour options of Alpine White and Style Triple Black. Improved safety will be via an anti-theft alarm system, standard traction control and ABS.
350cc single-cylinder engine
Suited for both city and highway rides, BMW C 400 GT will be powered by a 350cc, water cooled, single cylinder engine generating 34 hp power at 7,500 rpm and 35 Nm torque at 5,750 rpm mated to a CVT. It will claim a top speed of 86 mph (139 kmph).
Braking will be via dual disc brake in the front and single disc brake at the rear. Suspension will be via telescopic fork in the front and dual shocks at the rear. Unladen weight of this scooter is at 214 kgs.
Bookings are open against a token amount of Rs 1 lakh. BMW have received over 100 bookings prior to launch. Apart from being exclusive, BMW C400 GT is also the most powerful scooter on sale in India with no direct rival. More

2021 Triumph Street ScramblerThe new Triumph Street Scrambler will go head-to-head against Ducati Scrambler Icon – It is available in attractive colour options
Triumph is aggressively expanding its international portfolio by unveiling new products across various segments. Back in April this year, the British bikemaker took the wraps off the latest version of Street Scrambler that will also head towards Indian shores. Today, the same has been launched in India.
The 2021 Street Scrambler features some subtle aesthetic and mechanical updates over its predecessor. It will be available in two forms- standard and a limited-run Sandstorm Edition. The former is priced frmo Rs 9.35 lakhs. The latter has been priced at Rs 9.95 lakh (ex-showroom) for India and is limited to just 775 units worldwide.
Triumph Street Scrambler 900cc – Updated Styling
To start with its design, 2021 iteration of Street Scrambler gets a raft of styling updates. These include a new side panel with an aluminium number board, a new brushed aluminium headlight bracket, a new heel guard and throttle body finishers. The split-style seats get a new Alcantara-like finish. That said, Triumph has retained the overall retro styling of the bike with the same set of body panels.
Retro-style components such as a round headlamp, a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, a single-sided high-mounted twin exhaust canister, wire-spoked wheels shod with knobby tyres, fork gaiters and circular rearview mirrors. Triumph, however, has done away with a rubberised grip pad on the tank. It will be available in three paint schemes- a dual-tone Matte Khaki with Matte Ironstone, Jet Black or Urban Grey.
2021 Triumph Street Scrambler
Triumph Street Scrambler 900cc Sandstorm Edition gets additional cosmetic enhancements such as a headlight grille, rubber grip pads on the tank, a beak-like high-mounted front mudguard and an engine belly pan which give it a unique appearance. Further, it will be shipped with a personalised certificate of authenticity that will also bear the bike’s VIN number lending it exclusivity. The bike tips the weighing scales at 223kg.
Mechanical Specs
Getting into specifications, the bike is powered by a 900cc, parallel-twin, liquid-cooled engine which also powers Bonneville Street Twin. This motor is now BS6/Euro-5 compliant and pushes out 64.1 bhp at 7,500rpm and a peak torque of 80 Nm at 3,200rpm. The engine is mated to a 5-speed gearbox.
The new Street Scrambler is underpinned by the same steel twin-cradle frame that is suspended on non-adjustable 41mm forks telescopic at front and preload-adjustable twin shocks at rear. Braking duties will be carried out by single disc brakes on both front and rear ends with calipers from Brembo and Nissin respectively. Safety is provided by dual-channel ABS as standard.
2021 Triumph Street Scrambler – Official Specs
Features on offer
Speaking of features, Street Scrambler gets an analogue speedometer with LCD display, a 12-litre fuel tank, full LED illumination traction control and three ride modes- road, rain and off-road. For better off-road performance, it gets switchable ABS. More

New Bajaj Dominar Spied At Dealer ShowroomCurrently, Bajaj offers Dominar 400 at a price of Rs 2.12 lakh (ex-showroom) – The updated model is expected to cost a little premium over the present model
Despite being well-equipped and capable, Dominar 400 hasn’t been attracting a larger number of buyers in recent times which is why Bajaj has planned to give the bike an update. It recently came to light that Bajaj is planning to launch an updated iteration of Dominar 400 in the near future.
The facelifted version of the tourer is expected to primarily incorporate cosmetic updates as well as maybe a few feature additions. That said, underneath its skin, the motorcycle will remain identical to the current model on sale. The motorcycle has started to arrive at dealer showroom. Launch is expected in coming days. Spy images are credit to automotive enthusiast Harish. Apart from Dominar, Bajaj will also launch new Pulsar 250 later this month.
New Bajaj Dominar 400 – Company fitted accessories
Earlier this year, an undisguised prototype of Dominar 400 wearing an Aurora Green colour trim was spied sporting a new flyscreen and knuckle guards. It is this same model which has now been spied at a dealership, but in a different colour. Current Dominar 400 is available in Green and Black.
In terms of styling, the current Dominar 400 flaunts a muscular fuel tank with extensions, a double-barrel exhaust, split-style seats and a raised handlebar. The motorcycle rolls on 17-inch alloy wheels. It contains company fitted mobile holder with charger placed above console.
New Bajaj Dominar Spied At Dealer Showroom
On the feature front, Dominar 400 is laced with a data-intensive fully-digital instrument cluster, all-LED illumination and a 13-litre fuel tank capacity. In its upcoming iteration, the motorcycle could benefit from a dedicated connectivity technology.
While Dominar 400 is a proven tourer on highways due to its ease of riding and ergonomics, its heavier front end with a kerb weight of 187 kilos makes it a cumbersome motorcycle to ride in city commutes, especially in tight traffic conditions.
Hardware, Engine Specs
Most probably, the new 2022 Dominar 400 will sit on the same perimeter tube frame. This frame will be suspended on 43mm inverted forks at front and a multi-step adjustable mono-shock unit at rear. Braking hardware comprises a 320mm disc up front and a 230mm disc at rear which are assisted by a dual-channel ABS as standard.
The upcoming Dominar 400 will continue to draw its power from the same 373.27cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine which generates 40hp of power at 8,800rpm and 35Nm of peak torque at 6,500rpm 373.27cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine which pushes out 40 bhp at 8,800rpm and 35 Nm of peak torque at 6,500rpm. This unit will be paired with a 6-speed gearbox which comes with a slipper clutch. More

International-spec Yamaha MT15. Image for reference
Upon its launch, the new generation Yamaha MT15 could be priced at a premium of Rs 10,000 over the current model
Yamaha updated its entry-level supersport bike R15 earlier last month which has generally received positive reviews from all corners. The bike received plenty of updates on the skin and some crucial ones underneath as well. Now, the Japanese bikemaker is planning to carry forward these updates on the naked version of R15.
Yamaha could soon launch an updated MT15 which will carry a similar range of updates as seen in the recently launched R15 V4. Underneath their skin, both R15 and MT15 are essentially the same bikes with stark differences in their top hat and riding ergonomics.
Updated Design Expected
In its current form, MT15 gets a transformer-style front look with air scoops, a sculpted fuel tank with extensions, a single-pod LED projector headlamp with twin LED DRLs at front, a wide handlebar and a petite tail section. There could be slight variations in terms of styling in the upcoming model but exact details have not yet surfaced.
MT15 is also available in a special MotoGP Monster Energy Edition which is the range-topping variant of the motorcycle. It features cosmetic enhancements which are inspired by Yamaha’s MotoGP motorcycle along with Monster Energy branding which is the principal sponsor of Team Blue at the premiere championship. The special edition model wears a black paint scheme along with Monster Energy branding on the fuel tank and logo on tank extensions.
Yamaha MT15 Monster Edition. Image – MRD Vlogs
Yamaha MT15 R15 V4 Based – Hardware & Features
The major and more crucial updates will be underneath its skin which would involve an updated powertrain and hardware setup. The most notable inclusion will be upside-down front forks which will offer sportier credentials to the new MT-15.
The golden-coloured front forks will also add to the visual appeal of the motorcycle in addition to more confidence to riders. Rear suspension duties will be handled by a mono-shock. Anchorage will be taken care of by disc brakes at both ends complemented by dual-channel ABS as standard.
Yamaha is also likely to add a couple of features to the updated MT-15 such as a quick-shifter, traction control and a revised fully digital LCD instrument console compatible with Yamaha’s Y-Connect connectivity feature and Bluetooth.
Powering MT-15 will be the same engine as its fully clothed sibling R15 V4. The 155cc, single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine is paired with a six-speed gearbox. The VVA motor kicks out 18.2 bhp and 14.1 Nm of peak torque. Yamaha is yet to confirm the launch timeline of updated MT15. It could be planned for launch later this year or sometime next year. More

BMW 350cc Scooter for IndiaWith C400GT, BMW will be looking to gain first-mover advantage in mid-displacement maxi-scooter segment
Initial response for C400GT has been pretty decent, as it has already received around 100 pre-bookings. C400GT is offered in several international markets and it had received an update earlier this year. It is the updated model that has now been launched in India, at a starting price of Rs 9.95 lakhs, ex-sh.
C400GT will be the first proper maxi scooter in India. As of now, products like Suzuki Burgman Street, Aprilia SXR 160 and recently launched Yamaha Aerox 155 can best be described as ‘maxi-styled’ scooters.
BMW C400GT design and features
C400GT is specially designed for an urban environment. It is also capable of handling journeys that stretch beyond city limits. Designed for optimal comfort and equipped with hi-tech ride-by-wire technology, the scooter ensures a hassle-free experience.
With its beefy proportions, C400GT will be hard to miss on the streets. Some key features include full LED headlights, large windshield, step-up seat and upswept exhaust. In international markets, the bike is offered in three colour options – Style Triple Black, Alpine White and Callisto Gray Metallic.
BMW 350cc Scooter for India – Official Specs
Other key features include a 6.5 inch TFT display that is equipped with BMW Motorrad connectivity suite. It allows users to pair their smartphones to access a range of features on the go. Users can listen to music, make phone calls and get navigational directions to their destination. These functions can be accessed via the multi-controller provided on the handlebar.
A USB charging socket has been provided in the front storage compartment. The scooter has ample storage space under the seat with inbuilt illumination. It is possible that the list of features, as offered in international markets, could be slightly different in India.
BMW C400GT engine and specs
BMW C400GT gets its power from a 350cc, water cooled, single cylinder motor. It is capable of generating 34 hp of max power at 7,500 rpm and 35 Nm of peak torque at 5,750 rpm. It is mated to a CVT gearbox. The scooter is Euro V / BS6 compliant and utilizes a closed-loop three-way catalytic converter. Rated max speed of BMW C400GT is 86 mph (approx. 138 kmph).
Mr. Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India on the all-new BMW C 400 GT
C400GT has steel tube construction with aluminium die cast frame. Suspension system comprises telescopic fork at front and double swingarm linked spring struts suspension at rear. The scooter has disc brakes at both ends and BMW Motorrad ABS is offered as standard.
BMW C400GT will not have a direct rival in India initially, it could face some competition in the future. Products like Burgman 400 and Honda Forza 350 could be launched in India at a later date. However, there is no official word about these as of now.
High pricing is a key factor that is likely to limit sales of maxi-scooters in the Indian market. Consumer preference for motorcycles and local traffic and ride conditions are other factors that can influence sale of larger capacity maxi-scooters in the country. More

Hero Maestro Edge 125cc with Hero ConnectHero Connect will be a good addition at a time when there’s growing preference for connectivity features
Once positioned as a premium offering, connectivity features are now gravitating towards becoming a necessity. These make every day commutes a lot more convenient and hassle-free. They also enhance vehicle safety as well as safety of users. Connectivity features were first introduced in the country by Hyundai. These are now available with several two-wheelers as well.
In line with evolving customer expectations, India’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer Hero MotoCorp had launched its connectivity platform in February last year. Named Hero Connect, the platform was initially available only at select dealerships in select cities.
Priced at Rs 4,999, Hero Connect is currently available as an option with Xpulse 200, Xtreme 160R, Destini 125, Pleasure+ and Pleasure+ Platinum. There are plans to make the platform available for more Hero products in the future. More dealerships and cities will be covered based on market demand.
Hero Maestro Edge 125 Connect
Maestro Edge 125 was recently spotted at a dealer event with other products such as Xtreme 160R Stealth Edition, Xpulse 200 4V with optional Rally Kit and Pleasure Plus Xtec. The latter three are already equipped with Hero Connect system.
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Maestro Edge 125 was spotted in a new Prismatic Yellow colour. Today, Hero Connect platform has been introduced for Maestro Edge 125 as well. Above is the new Hero Maestro Edge 125 TVC featuring Ranbir Kapoor. It will allow the scooter to compete better with rivals such as Honda Activa 125, Suzuki Access, Yamaha Fascino and recently launched TVS Jupiter 125.
At the core of Hero Connect platform is an embedded e-SIM and telematics hardware. It works to communicate with cellular networks in order to create a link between the device and mobile app. Hero Connect features are broadly classified into three categories – rider safety, vehicle safety and driving report. Vehicle safety has some of the most useful features such as live tracking, tow away alert, geo fencing, and parking spot locator.
In terms of user safety, Hero Connect offers the topple alert feature. This was recently introduced with Xpulse 200. In case the vehicle topples, a notification is automatically sent to emergency contacts saved by the user. This feature can be a life saver in critical situations.
Hero Maestro Edge 125 With Hero Connect
It is possible that Hero may add more rider safety features in future versions of its connectivity platform. Other features available with Hero Connect include trip analysis, driving score and speed alert.
No other changes
Apart from Hero Connect, there are not other updates for Maestro Edge 125. The scooter is powered by a 124.6 cc, air cooled motor. It is capable of generating 9 bhp of max power at 7000 rpm and 10.4 Nm of peak torque at 5500 rpm. It is mated to a variomatic drive gearbox. The scooter has telescopic front suspension and spring loaded hydraulic damper at rear. The scooter is offered in disc and drum brake variants. Price range is Rs 73.2k to Rs 76.7k (ex-showroom, Delhi). More