Aurelia Butler

2022 Yamaha RX 155 – RenderWith the trend of resurrecting legendary brands, Yamaha RX seems eligible for a second life
Yamaha RX series motorcycles were in production in India from 1985 to 2005. Most loved among them was RX100 that was produced from 1985 to 1996. The bike was hugely popular largely due to its unmatched speed, acceleration and agile handling. However, due to stricter emission norms, the bike was discontinued. It was followed by other RX motorcycles such as RXG, RX-Z and RX135. However, none of them could match the popularity of RX100.
Yamaha RX 155 rendered
With legendary bikes like Jawa getting successfully re-launched, there could be scope for Yamaha RX as well. Enthusiasts would surely want to try their hands on an all-new Yamaha RX. Following up on these possibilities, automotive artist Pratyush Rout has come up with a 155cc version of Yamaha RX. While the design is inspired by RX models, the bike borrows its engine from Yamaha R15.
In this render, the bike gets an all-black colour theme. Most parts such as the engine, fenders, suspension, fuel tank, side panels, and spoke wheels have been blacked out. This ensures a dominating road presence, something that would be hard to miss on the streets.
RX 155 borrows most of the styling bits from original RX bikes. It gets features such as circular headlamps and turn indicators, twin-pod instrument console, and wide handlebar. Design of the fuel tank, seat, fenders and tail section is largely the same as that of original RX.
2022 Yamaha RX 155
However, based on its updated powertrain, RX 155 gets a range of enhancements. These include wider front and rear tyres, fork gaiters and disc brakes. The basic suspension system remains unchanged – telescopic forks at front and dual rear suspension. Assuming that RX 155 reaches production stage, it is likely to be equipped with at least single-channel ABS. It is to note that Yamaha R15 is equipped with dual-channel ABS as standard.
Yamaha RX 155 engine
RX 155 will borrow its engine from R15. As may be recalled, Yamaha recently launched the new R15 V4. Although the engine is the same 155cc unit as earlier, it comes with updates such as Quick Shifter and Traction Control System. Quick shifter allows clutch-free gear shifting whereas traction control reduces the risk of wheelspin.
The engine is capable of generating 18.4 ps of max power at 10,000 rpm and 14.2 Nm of peak torque at 7,500 rpm. It is mated to a 6-speed constant mesh transmission.
2022 Yamaha RX 155
The engine packs in other performance-oriented features such as assist and slipper clutch. This offers a range of benefits including reduced rider fatigue and avoidance of excessive engine braking. Another useful feature is variable valves actuation (VVA) that ensures ample torque delivery even at low RPM.
RX155 could also be equipped with Y-Connect connectivity platform. This can be used to access a range of features such as last parking location, fuel consumption tracker, malfunction notification and maintenance recommendations. More

2022 Kawasaki Z125Due to pricing issues and market dynamics, Kawasaki Z125 and Ninja 125 are unlikely to be launched in India
As part of its strategy to continually refresh its portfolio, Kawasaki has introduced updated colour options for Ninja 125 and Z125 2022 model. In the Indian market, Kawasaki Z range currently comprises Z650, Z900, Z H2 and Z H2 SE.
Kawasaki 125cc Range – 2022 updated colour options
A total of three colour options are available for Z125. One of these is Metallic Flat Spark Black / Pearl Flat Stardust White, which has been replaced with Pearl Flat Stardust White / Metallic Spark Black on the 2022 model.
The only major difference is that the quantum of white paint has been reduced. It is now limited to the top section of the fuel tank, a small portion of tank shrouds and front fender. 2022 Z125 also gets updated graphics. These changes have ensured a refined look and feel for the bike.
Another colour option is Metallic Flat Spark Black / Metallic Spark Black, which has been replaced with Metallic Flat Spark Black. The latter ditches the visual anomalies present on 2021 model due to its dual shades of black. The new colour theme brings the bike close to an all-black look and feel. Graphics have also been updated, just like other new colour themes.
2022 Kawasaki Z125
Refinements have also been introduced for the third colour option of Candy Lime Green / Metallic Spark Black. In 2022 model, lime green shade has been reduced significantly. It is largely limited to the headlamp cowl and front fender. In 2021 model, the lime green shade extends to the fuel tank and tank shrouds. The green bits have been replaced with black and light grey shades on 2022 model.
Colour options on offer with the Ninja 125 are similar to Z125. These are Lime green/ebony/pearl blizzard white, Metallic spark black/metallic flat spark black, Pearl flat stardust white/metallic spark black. Ninja 125 also gets the Kawasaki Racing Team (KRT) colour scheme.
Kawasaki 125cc 2022 engine and specs
Engine and other hardware are the same as earlier for 2022. The bikes are powered by a 125cc, liquid cooled, DOHC, 4-valve motor. It is capable of generating 15 PS of max power at 10,000 rpm and 11.7 Nm of peak torque at 7,700 rpm. As per A1 driving license rules applicable in Europe, Z125 power and torque are at their max permissible limit. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox.
2022 Kawasaki Ninja 125
Kawasaki Z125 utilizes a tubular diamond steel frame with telescopic front forks and gas-charged rear shock with adjustable preload. Braking duties are performed by 290 mm and 220 mm single petal disc at front and rear, respectively. At both ends, the bike has dual piston calliper. ABS is offered as standard.
In European markets, Z125 standard variant is priced at €4,399 (approx. Rs 3.80 lakh). The SE variant costs €4,499, which is around Rs 3.87 lakh. As of now, it doesn’t seem like Kawasaki is making any plans to bring Z125 to India. But in case it makes it to our shores, it will primarily rival the likes of KTM 125 Duke. The latter retails at a starting price of Rs 1.71 lakh. More

New Hero Xpulse 200Hero Pleasure Plus competes against other 110cc scooters such as TVS Scooty Zest, Jupiter and Honda Activa 6G
Constant updates to product lineup are key to a thriving business in the Indian automotive market for OEMs. Therefore, despite leading the two-wheeler market in the country for decades, Hero MotoCorp has been regularly updating its two-wheeler lineup with new models or new variants.
A few months ago, Hero launched a range-topping variant of its 125cc commuter called Glamour Xtec. The model came with class-leading features over the standard models and at a premium price as well. The bikemaker will soon launch a similar top-spec variant of Pleasure Plus as images of the upcoming scooter from a dealer meet have leaked online.
In addition the Pleasure Plus X-Tec, Hero will also launch new Xpulse 200 as well as Xtreme 160R Stealth Edition. Both these motorcycles were also spied at the dealer meet. Xpulse 200 will be seen with new colours, more powerful 4V engine while Xtreme 160R will get the Stealth colour scheme, which was also seen on the Maestro 125. These new editions will help Hero increase sales this festive season.
Hero Pleasure Plus X-TEC – Dimensions & Expected Features
In terms of design, the upcoming Pleasure Plus Xtec is every bit identical to the standard model. It also shares identical dimensions of the entry-level scooter. It measures a length of 1,769mm, a width of 704mm, stands 1,161mm tall and offers a wheelbase of 1,238mm. The scooter gets a ground clearance of 155mm and weighs daily nimble at only 106kg.
New Hero Pleasure Plus XTEC
The primary highlight of this new scooter will be the rich equipment which is likely to offer additional features such as a fully digital instrument console compatible with Bluetooth connectivity. The console can read out data from the speedometer, tachometer, odometer, gear position indicator, service due indicator and RTMI.
Apart from these, the new Xtech variant of Pleasure Plus will offer first-in-segment Turn-by-Turn navigation, Integrated USB Charger as well as Side-Stand Engine cut-off and Bank Angle Sensor. Hero could also carry forward the i3S start/stop technology offered in other two-wheelers from the brand. Also, it is expected to offer LED headlights and LED DRLs in the package.
Styling & Colour Options
As of now, Pleasure Plus is offered in eight paint schemes including Polestar Blue, Matte Black, Matte Green, Matte Metallic Red, Midnight Black, Pearl Silver White, Sporty Red and Matte Vernier Gray. The prototype in the latest spy shots is seen wearing the yellow colour scheme. The scooter rides on black alloy wheels with a yellow-coloured rim.
New Hero Xtreme Stealth
To make it a more premium affair, Hero will be offering Pleasure Plus Xtec chrome embellishments on headlamp bezel, front apron, rearview mirrors and exhaust heat shield. A pillion backrest will also be carried forward. It is expected to be launched in the coming few weeks at the peak of the festive season.
Engine Specs
Powering the range-topping trim of Pleasure Plus will be the same 110.9 cc single-cylinder air-cooled OHC four-stroke fuel-injected engine that pushes out 8 bhp and a peak torque of 8.7 Nm. The powertrain, as usual, will be linked to a CVT gearbox. Currently, Pleasure Plus is priced between Rs 62,940 and Rs 67,550 (ex-showroom) while the upcoming Xtech variant could be priced Rs 4,000 higher than the current top-end trim of Pleasure Plus.
New Hero Xtreme Stealth
Hero Xtreme Stealth Edition
In terms of features, it is not far behind other motorcycles. It is the only bike in its segment which gets an all-LED lighting setup,i.e. An LED headlamp, an LED taillamp and LED indicators. It is equipped with an inverted LCD console, side-stand engine cut-off, hazard lights and a segment-first Auto Sail technology which allows the bike to easily glide in traffic at low speeds.
Coming to its most crucial aspect- performance, it is powered by a BS6 compliant 163cc single-cylinder fuel-injected motor which hurls out 15 bhp and 14 Nm of peak torque. This unit is linked to a 5-speed gearbox. Unlike most modern motorcycles, the Xtreme offers a kick-starter in addition to a standard starter motor. At 139.5 kg kerb weight it has one of the strongest power to weight ratios in the segment which helps it accelerate 0-60 kmph in just 4.7 seconds.
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New Gen KTM RC Launch SoonKTM is expected to launch the new-gen RC models in India in the coming few weeks – Most likely starting with RC 125
KTM unveiled its new range of RC earlier this month. These models will go on sale in the coming few weeks globally. India launch is expected soon. KTM India has homologated the new gen RC 125 in the country. While the launch has also been teased via their official social media account.
On a cumulative basis, all three bikes- RC 125, RC 200 and RC 390, have undergone significant updates both over and underneath their skin. For a refreshing change, all three fully-faired motorcycles now look familiar to each other.
As we already know, bookings for all three motorcycles have commenced at several dealerships across the country. Series production of the bikes has reportedly begun at Bajaj Auto’s Chakan-based manufacturing facility. With all details out, barring prices, we aim to discuss the series of updates witnessed on all three bikes.
Updated Framework
For starters, all three RC models are now underpinned by a new framework which is lighter by 1.5kg. The new architecture utilises a trellis frame and a bolt-on rear subframe which gives the motorcycles improved high-speed stability and increased rider feel. All three bikes now boast the same suspension setup comprising 43mm USD forks at front and a mono-shock unit at rear with a braced alloy swingarm. Both units are sourced from WP Apex and offer preload adjustability.
New Gen KTM RC Launch Soon
All three entry-level RC motorcycles also get the same braking hardware which consists of a 320mm disc up front and a 230mm rotor at rear chewed down by a 4-piston BYBRE calipers at front and a single-piston caliper at rear. This gives the brakes a sharper bite. Even though larger, the new discs reduce weight by 960 grams.
The sports bikes ride on newly designed alloy wheels with fewer spokes and open hubs which not only improves handling but also reduces 3.4 kilos from RC 125 and RC 390 and 1kg from RC 200. Dual-channel ABS is offered as standard across the lineup to complement the anchorage.
Overhauled Design
In terms of design, all three bikes now get a revised front face with a new single LED headlamp flanked by LED DRLs and turn indicators on both sides. Other styling updates include a more muscular fuel tank, redesigned front fairing, a revised tail section and new body graphics. The new-gen RC models look more aerodynamic in nature thanks to the wider fairings.
New Gen KTM RC 125 Homologated In India
It is further enhanced with the presence of air vents on the side panels which ensure optimized airflow. The only difference among the three occurs in RC 200 which unlike the other two models gets an underbelly exhaust instead of a side-on upswept exhaust.
A further distinction between the models is created with new colour options offered with the updated RC range. The entry-level RC 125 will be offered in two paint schemes- first Black with Orange highlights and second White with Orange highlights. Colour options on RC 200 will include White / Orange and Black / Orange while colour options of Blue / Orange shade will be limited to the new-gen RC390 only.
New KTM RC 125
Same set of engines, more oomph
While all three motorcycles are powered by the same engine as their predecessors, KTM has made some improvements to the powertrain department. For instance, the 373cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine in RC 390 delivers the same power at 44 bhp but greater peak torque of 37 Nm, thanks to a larger airbox. This has also resulted in a higher top speed which has been increased by 11 kmph.
Moreover, enhancements like ultra-hard carbon coated cam levers and improved engine cooling have resulted in faster acceleration and higher torque delivery. RC 125 continues to derive its energy via a 124.7cc, single-cylinder engine offering 14.5 and 12 Nm of peak torque. RC 200 is powered by a 199.5cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that dishes out 24.6 bhp and 19.2 Nm of torque. More

New Hero Xpulse 200Internet connected smart features make rides a lot more interactive, hassle-free and safer
First introduced with cars, connected tech has made its way to two-wheelers as well. With growing preference among consumers, many scooters and motorcycles now offer dedicated connectivity platforms. These usually work via a mobile app.
Xpulse 200 Topple Alert feature
India’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer by volume, Hero MotoCorp had introduced its connectivity platform called Hero Connect in February last year. At that time, it was offered at Rs 4,999 for select models for one year subscription. It was available at dealerships in select cities.
Hero Connect offers a range of connectivity features. The Topple Alert feature is now available with Xpulse 200. What it does is that an automatic app notification and SMS is sent to emergency contacts in case the motorcycle topples. Notification is also sent to the registered mobile number. Users can select emergency contacts that they want to be notified in case the vehicle topples.
This feature can be a life saver, as timely medical help is crucial in case of an accident. Upon receiving the vehicle topple notification, emergency contacts can respond quickly to the situation. Medical help can be requested in case the situation demands. Topple Alert feature will also work to ensure peace of mind for the rider’s loved ones.
Hero Xpulse Topple Alert Feature
Hero has plans to introduce Hero Connect platform to other products as well. It will be made available at more dealerships and cities in the future. Since it is not cheap, especially in the context of commuter segment, Hero Connect platform will continue to be offered as an option. It is currently available for Xtreme 160R, Xpulse 200, Destini 125, Pleasure+ and Pleasure+ Platinum.
Hero Connect other features
Hero Connect system utilizes telematics hardware that includes an embedded e-SIM. It can communicate with the cellular network to establish a link between the device and application. With Hero Connect, users can track their vehicle in real-time. The path taken by the vehicle is clearly displayed and its speed is recorded.
Another key vehicle safety feature is tow away alert. This notifies the user in case an unauthorized movement of vehicle is detected. This can help in preventing vehicle thefts. Geo-fence alert is available, wherein notification is sent to the user in case the vehicle goes beyond a pre-determined geographical area. Another useful feature is Hero Locate that helps people to find their vehicle at parking locations. This feature is supported via Google Maps.
A number of reports can be accessed using Hero Connect platform. For example, details about a particular trip such as route selected, time taken, distance travelled, etc. can be accessed. The app can store details of all trips for last six months. Hero Connect can analyse riding behaviour and inform the user in case there are issues with their riding style. Users can set speed limit and receive notification in case the limit is exceeded. More