More stories

  • in

    Jawa 42 Bobber Black Mirror Launched For Rs. 2.25 L – Factory Chrome!

    Jawa 42 Bobber Black Mirror LaunchedThe Jawa 42 Bobber Black Mirror’s updated 334cc liquid-cooled powertrain generates 29.9 PS of power and 32.7 Nm of torqueBobber motorcycle genre is relatively new in India. And at the mainstream end of the spectrum, Bobbers are quite a niche. However, Jawa is capitalising on this genre with its newest instalment, 42 Bobber Black Mirror. The Black Mirror costs Rs. 2.25 lakh (ex-sh) and is now the most expensive variant of 42 Bobber model.Jawa 42 Bobber Black Mirror Launched – The de facto Bobber?The iconic brand has brought its popular 42 Bobber motorcycle to MY2023 with Black Mirror variant. Primary visual change is with a chrome-finished fuel tank that is quite popular with retro and neo-retro motorcycles. This is not just a new colour and Jawa suggests powertrain changes as well.Jawa mentions that they have replaced the old 33mm throttle body with a new and improved 38mm throttle body. This was part of BS6 P2 transition. It ensures better-optimised charge intake and aids in optimum combustion as well. Jawa has tweaked the engine and fuel map too, resulting in a lower idling speed. Jawa mentions that 1500 RPM idling speed is now reduced to 1350 RPM.This makes the motorcycle more fuel-efficient and more relaxed while idling. Other powertrain-related changes are re-designed gear and engine covers. Jawa 42 Black Mirror sports a slightly tweaked rear suspension, enabling a new level of comfort for riders. The superior damping in new suspension setup adds to the overall relaxed Bobber appeal.Jawa 42 Bobber Black Mirror – Alloy wheelsThe 334 cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine produces 29.9 PS of power and 32.7 Nm of torque, mated to a 6-speed gearbox. Jawa bundles in a slip-and-assist clutch for smooth gear shifts and lighter clutch action.Latest entrant to Jawa’s ‘Factory Custom’ lineupFor the first time, Jawa 42 Bobber gets alloy wheels with Black Mirror. This brings tubeless tyres and worry-free rides. The company mentions that these diamond-cut alloy wheels are standard with 42 Bobber Black Mirror variant and existing customers can retrofit them too.If we take Bobber motorcycles in India within the mainstream segment, Jawa 42 Bobber only competes with its stablemate Jawa Perak. Both motorcycles share their platforms, powertrains and other hardware, but take slightly different and unique design approach. In this sense, 42 Bobber is more neo-retro than Perak.Jawa 42 Bobber Black Mirror – Chrome tankRoyal Enfield is keen on cashing in the segment as it has commenced testing of Classic 350 Bobber (name not confirmed). However, Roya Enfield’s new 350cc Bobber seem to only identify as a Bobber and is basically a glorified and accessorised standard Classic 350. But Jawa’s Bobbers are Bobbers in the true sense.Words from the manufacturerMr. Ashish Singh Joshi, CEO of Jawa Yezdi Motorcycles, spoke passionately about the launch, stating, “With the successful launch of Jawa 42 Bobber last year, we further strengthened our dominance in the Bobber segment. The Bobber stable from our factory custom portfolio has enjoyed an ardent fan following from the riding community in India. The kind of love we received for the 42 Bobber made us push our boundaries in design and engineering to deliver the all new Jawa 42 Bobber Black Mirror.Jawa 42 Bobber Black Mirror profileBobbers embody the essence of individuality and distinctiveness; they are an emotional purchase, and the new Jawa 42 Bobber Black Mirror is a fine example of why Bobbers are so special. The meticulous attention to detail, combined with the unique design language, makes it a true standout.” More

  • in

    TVS Apache RTR 310 Launched From Rs. 2.42 lakh

    TVS Apache RTR 310 LaunchedThe 312.2cc on the new TVS Apache RTR 310 is the same one as Apache RR 310 and develops 34 PS of max power and 27.3 Nm of max torqueThe strategic partnership between TVS Motor and BMW Motorrad has spawned its 5th product. Say Namaste to TVS Apache RTR 310, which is TVS’ second motorcycle based on 310 platform. This is the flagship of naked Apache lineup and is a complete departure from much tamer than its BMW counterpart, G 310 R.TVS Apache RTR 310 Street NakedAs per pricing, TVS has pulled an absolute trump card. Apache RTR 310 is launched in 3 standard SKUs and 3 BTO options. Pricing starts from Rs. 2,42,990 for Arsenal Black (without quickshifter), Rs. 2,57,990 for Arsenal Black (with quickshifter) and Rs. 2,63,990 for Fury Yellow (all prices ex-sh).The BTO Dynamic Kit and Dynamic Pro Kit cost Rs. 18,000 and Rs. 22,000 respectively on top. The Sepang Blue colour costs Rs. 10,000 on its own. The pricing is a steal considering its BMW counterpart costs Rs. 2.85 lakh and Honda CBR300R costs Rs. 2.77 lakh and KTM 390 Duke costs Rs. 2.97 lakh (all prices ex-sh). That said, Triumph Speed 400 does pose a serious threat.Where design is concerned, TVS has outdone itself and has carved out quite a handsome machine. The front fascia is completely radical and leagues apart from what TVS has been doing till now. We saw a similar radical design departure with TVS X electric scooter as well. This new design language is likely to do wonders for the brand.TVS Apache RTR 310 pricingMost feature-packed in the segment!Fuel tank is now sharp and lends a sporty appeal. We like the way these tank shrouds extend to flex the bike’s muscles. Fat USD forks at the front add to that effect dramatically. Speaking of dramatic, TVS Apache RTR 310 features a twin LED headlight setup. Twin LED DRLs look aggressive and a mean character, which is what TVS seems to be going for. These headlights remind me of Kawasaki Z1000.Design is in-keeping with TVS’ ‘Restless To Race’ and ‘Restless To Play’ ethos and so are its ergonomics. There are sporty clip-on handlebars allowing riders to fully engage with their Apache. Combine that with precise footpeg positioning, TVS has struck a fine balance between spirited rides and everyday comfort.New subframe has sporty body panels accentuating Apache RTR 310’s all-around aggression. Rear gets LED tail lights in rear subframe and turn indicators in its tyre hugger. The split seats seem to have decent padding and cushion for added comfort. Seat heating and cooling multiply the comfort factor exponentially.TVS Apache RTR 310 muscular designSame engine as before – Slightly up-tunedThe 312.2cc single-cylinder engine with 4V head and liquid cooling remains as is, but slightly up-tuned. It makes 35.6 PS of maximum power at 9,700 RPM and 28.7 Nm of maximum torque at 6,650 RPM. There are four riding modes as well – Urban, Rain, Sport and Track. There is a slipper-clutch and ride-by-wire too, for granular throttle modulation.The exhaust system is identical to outgoing model too. There is a new instrument cluster that now sports a squarish display, as opposed to a vertical smartphone-like unit on outgoing model. This new 5″ TFT screen gets all the SmartXonnect suite of connected features from the brand. This screen supports music connectivity and even GoPro connectivity.TVS Apache RTR 310 5″ Senpang BlueThe global launch of the all-new TVS Apache RTR 310 marks a momentousoccasion for us, as this motorcycle encapsulates Apache’s 18-year legacy of innovation and performance. With the TVS Apache RTR 310, we’re taking our engineering to a whole new level, offering enthusiasts a motorcycle that’s not only powerful but also brings together different technologies to give a unique riding experience. This motorcycle is positioned to be the flagship product for many global markets including India, Europe, LATAM andASEAN.”Speaking at the launch, Vimal Sumbly, Head Business – Premium, TVS Motor Company, said, “The TVS Apache RTR 310 is the first of a new generation of Apache’s that inherit a 40 year racing pedigree and are based on our ‘Track to Road’ philosophy. This machine will be the start of a new era of Freestyle Performance Motorcycling with a core essence of thrill and fun. With many defining technologies, this flagship Apache like every other Apache will lead in technology setting new benchmarks for the category.Its cyborg-inspired streetfighter design, all-range torque and track-tuned agility, elevates the fun of motorcycling for the new age riders – Power to Play for the Freestyler. The TVS Apache RTR series is already established as a formidable force in the naked format amongst premium lifestyle segment, The TVS Apache series recently crossed its 5 million global sales milestone becoming the fastest growing premium motorcycle brand in the segment.” More

  • in

    New Aprilia RS 440 Render Based On Spy Shots – Yamaha R3 Rival

    Aprilia RS 440 RenderAprilia 440cc faired bike will primarily rival the likes of KTM RC 390, Kawasaki Ninja 400 and upcoming Yamaha R3As the festive season approaches, OEMs are gearing up to launch multiple new models. Among them is Aprilia that will be launching an all-new RS 440 faired bike. Test mules have been spotted in production ready format and teasers are also out.New Aprilia 440cc Motorcycle RenderAprilia 440cc India launch could coincide with the upcoming MotoGP event at Buddh International Circuit. Global debut is scheduled for 7th Sep 2023. Ahead of that, Pratyush Rout has created digital renders of the new Aprilia RS440 motorcycle.Aprilia RS 440 RenderAprilia’s offerings in upper spectrum of middleweight motorcycle segment may not have yielded desired results. The new 440cc bike could be different, considering that it will be locally manufactured and come with a reasonable price tag.Aprilia RS 440 featuresAprilia bikes are synonymous with style and exuberance, which are easily noticeable with the RS 440. The bike has an aggressive front fascia and sharp bodywork. Some of the key highlights include split headlamp design, angular LED DRLs, small air intakes, raked windscreen, fairing mounted rear view mirrors, sculpted fuel tank and dual-tone side panels with sporty graphics.Aprilia RS 440 RenderThere’s a rugged engine guard and an underbelly exhaust. The low rider seat should allow enhanced control and handling. The bike has a short tail section and comes with dual tail lamp setup. Ride ergonomics seems balanced, with possibility of both a committed and a more relaxed rider posture.Aprilia RS 440 RenderAprilia RS 440 is likely to be using an aluminium twin-spar frame. The bike will be equipped with USD forks at front and a monoshock unit at rear. It is expected to get 17-inch wheels, with a single disc setup at both ends. Dual-channel ABS will be offered as standard. Bluetooth-based connectivity features could also be part of the package. The bike will have a full digital instrument console with sporty graphics and track-focused info display.Overall, Aprilia RS440 seems a perfect starting point for racetrack enthusiasts. It has the looks and expected to deliver a matching performance. The bike will be manufactured locally at the company’s plant in Baramati, Maharashtra.Aprilia RS 440 performance, pricingAprilia RS 440 is expected to get a 440cc parallel-twin motor. It could be a derivative of the larger 660cc engine used with RS660. The engine will be getting features such as liquid cooling, 4-valves per cylinder and DOHC architecture. It could generate around 45 bhp of max power and 40 Nm of peak torque. The engine will have a 6-speed gearbox.In comparison, KTM RC 390 has a 373.27 cc, single-cylinder setup, producing 43.5 PS and 37 Nm. Kawasaki Ninja 400 has a parallel-twin 399cc liquid-cooled engine that makes 45 PS and 37 Nm. Talking about pricing, KTM RC 390 is available at a starting price of around Rs 3.18 lakh. Ninja 400 has a price tag of Rs 5.19 lakh. Yamaha is getting ready to launch R3 in India, which could come in at a price range of Rs 4 lakh. Aprilia RS 440 could be launched in the price range of Rs 3.5 lakh to Rs 4 lakh. It remains to be seen how well the new Aprilia RS performs against rivals at this price point. More

  • in

    2W Retail Sales August 2023 – Hero, Honda, TVS, Bajaj, Yamaha, Ola, Ather

    Ather 450XFADA sales analysis showed off a 6.29 percent YoY and 2.14 percent MoM growth in two wheeler retail sales in August 2023Outstanding sales growth was seen across the automotive sector in August 2023. Several favourable factors led to this and the trend is expected to continue through the upcoming festive season. On a Year-on-Year (YoY) basis, two wheeler retail sales improved by 6 percent while passenger vehicle retail sales were higher by 6.5 percent. CVs and three wheeler sales grew by 3 percent and 66 percent respectively.Vehicle Retail Sales Aug 2023 – FADASpeaking exclusively of two wheeler sales in the past month, total sales stood at 12,54,444 units, up 6.29 percent over 11,80,230 units sold in August 2022. MoM sales also improved by 2.14 percent from 12,28,139 units sold in July 2023.Vehicle sales in Aug 2023Hero MotoCorp took the lead with 3,48,026 unit retail sales last month, this was a growth over 3,45,366 units sold in August 2023. Market share however, dipped to 27.74 percent from 29.26 percent YoY. Taking MoM retail sales into account, the company reported a de-growth from 3,61,291 units sold in July 2023. At No. 2 on the retail sales list as released by FADA, Honda sales grew marginally to 3,10,091 units in August 2023, from 3,08,262 units sold in August 2022. Hero MotoCorp and Honda were the only two automakers in this segment to account for sales above the 3 lakh unit mark.TVS Motor sales saw outstanding growth on a YoY basis to 2,24,907 units, up from 1,94,501 units sold in August 2022. It was the TVS iQube, the electric vehicle in the company lineup, which contributed heavily to these sales. Market share also improved to 17.93 percent from 16.48 percent YoY. Retail sales of Bajaj Auto Limited grew to 1,48,129 units in August 2023. This was over 1,21,479 units sold in August 2022. The company also saw a growth in market share to 11.81 percent from 10.29 percent YoY.Two wheeler retail sales Aug 2023Suzuki and Royal Enfield Retail Sales GrowthLower down the sales list was Suzuki with 69,119 units sold in the past month, up from 57,095 units sold in August 2022. Market share improved to 5.51 percent from 4.84 percent YoY. It was followed by Royal Enfield, a leader in the mid-size motorcycle segment, with 58,484 unit sales last month, a growth over 52,435 units sold in August 2022. It was the company’s diverse portfolio of bikes in the sub-350cc and above-350cc categories, which contributed to this growth.India Yamaha Motors was up next, also reporting YoY growth in retail sales to 49,770 units in August 2023, up from 47,599 units sold in August 2022. Ola Electric and Ather, two electric two wheeler makers have both seen significant growth in retail sales in August 2023. Ola sales improved to 18,628 units, substantially higher when compared to 3,476 units sold in August 2022. Three new models S1 Air, the S1 Pro Gen2 and S1 were rolled out last month in three trim levels that will spearhead sales in the months ahead.Ather Energy has also seen sales improve to 7,064 units from 5,376 units sold in August 2022. The company introduced 3 new scooters in August 2023 and gears up for Ather 450S to take on the OlaS1, Bajaj Chetak and TVS iQube.Piaggio, Okinawa Sales Decline August 2023Two wheeler retail sales declined for Piaggio to 2,973 units in August 2023 from 3,501 units sold in August 2022. Greaves Electric reported retail sales at 2,923 units while Classic Legends also saw its sales dip to 2,314 units in the past month from 3,325 units sold in August 2022. Okinawa Autotech also reported a significant YoY de-growth in retail sales which fell from 8,759 units sold in August 2022 to just 1,998 units in the past month. There were other electric two wheeler ORMs in this list that saw retail sales fall to 10,018 units in August 2023 from 29,056 units sold in August 2022. More

  • in

    TVS Apache 310 Street Launch Tomorrow – New Teaser Out

    TVS Apache 310 Street Launch TomorrowTVS Motor will be launching the much awaited Apache RTR 310 tomorrow – Ahead of that, they have released a new teaserFor motorcycle enthusiasts seeking an optimal blend of style, performance, and affordability, TVS Apache has long been a favoured choice. TVS Apache lineup boasts a diverse range of bikes catering to various riding preferences, with the RR310 as its flagship model, developed in collaboration with BMW. Soon, riders will have even more options to choose from, as TVS gears up for the launch of the highly anticipated Apache 310 Street or the Apache RTR 310.TVS Apache 310 Street FeaturesEnthusiasts are likely to recognize the similarities between the upcoming Apache 310 Street and the BMW G310R, which is part of the BMW-TVS partnership that has seen success in over 100 countries. While some features and components are expected to be shared with the BMW G310R and the Apache RR310, the Apache 310 Street is set to establish its distinctive profile through changes in the front fascia, alloy wheels, exhaust system, and a vibrant array of colours.Recent test mule sightings and teaser releases have confirmed that the Apache 310 Street will come equipped with USD forks at the front and a monoshock at the rear. The bike will feature a split-seat design reminiscent of the RR310, a redesigned tail lamp unit, and a unique tyre hugger that also holds the number plate and turn indicators.One of the standout features of the Apache 310 Street is its new square-shaped TFT display, a departure from the vertically oriented rectangular unit found on the RR310. This change hints at the possibility of additional functions being introduced, building upon TVS’s SmartXonnect connectivity suite, which includes navigation assistance, ride analytics, ride planning, and access to calls and SMS.New TVS Apache 310 StreetTVS Apache 310 Street PerformanceUnder the hood, the TVS Apache 310 Street will be powered by the same 312.2cc, single-cylinder, 4-valve, liquid-cooled engine found in the RR310. Riders can expect the same array of ride modes – Sport, Track, Urban, and Rain – as those available on the RR310. In Sport and Track modes, the engine delivers an impressive 34 PS of maximum power and 27.3 Nm of peak torque. Meanwhile, in Urban and Rain modes, these figures drop slightly to 25.8 PS and 25 Nm.What sets the Apache 310 Street apart in terms of performance is its expected 10 kg reduction in weight compared to the RR310, which has a kerb weight of 174 kg. This decrease in weight is anticipated to result in a more exhilarating riding experience, with an improved power-to-weight ratio and potentially higher fuel efficiency. The bike’s riding stance is set to be more comfortable compared to its faired sibling, offering a shorter turning radius and enhanced agility and maneuverability.In practical terms, the Apache 310 Street is poised to be a more versatile and budget-friendly option within its class. TVS is expected to adopt an aggressive pricing strategy, making it one of the most affordable motorcycles in its segment. Bookings for the Apache 310 Street are already open, with the official launch scheduled for tomorrow, September 6, 2023. More

  • in

    Two Wheeler Sales August 2023 – Hero, Honda, TVS, Bajaj, Suzuki, RE

    New TVS Apache 160While Hero MotoCorp saw the highest sales in domestic markets, it was Bajaj Auto that led in terms of exports in August 2023Two wheeler sales in August 2023 continued its growth in domestic markets in August 2023 both in terms of YoY and MoM basis, while exports ended in the red. Taking into account sales of the leading 6 two wheeler ORMs in India, Hero and Honda led the domestic sales charts while it was Bajaj Auto and TVS Motors that commanded the export list.Two Wheeler Domestic sales August 2023In domestic markets, total sales of the leading 6 two wheeler makers stood at 14,94,024 units in August 2023. This was a 1.31 percent YoY growth over 14,74,665 units sold in August 2022 relating to a 19,359 unit volume increase. MoM sales also improved even more significantly by 23.92 percent from 12,05,662 units sold in July 2023 with volume growth at 2,88,362 units.Two wheeler sales Aug 2023Hero MotoCorp sold the highest number of two wheelers last month. Figures stood at 4,72,947 units, up 4.93 percent YoY from 4,50,740 units sold in August 2022 while MoM sales also improved by 27.41 percent from 3,71,204 units sold in July 2023. Market share improved from 30.79 percent held in July 2023 to 31.66 percent last month.Following close behind at No. 2 was Honda with 4,51,200 units sold in August 2023, up 6.61 percent YoY from 4,23,216 units sold in August 2022. The company currently commands a 30.20 percent market share up from 25.78 percent held in July 2023 when sales stood at 3,10,867 units, relating to a 45.14 percent MoM growth.Two Wheeler Sales August 2023 – DomesticTVS Motor sales also grew both YoY and MoM to 2,56,619 units in August 2023, up 7.23 percent YoY and 9.09 percent MoM. This was against 2,39,325 units and 2,35,230 units sold in August 2022 and July 2023 respectively. Market share however dipped to 17.18 percent from 19.51 percent MoM. Bajaj Auto posted a YoY de-growth in August 2023 down to 1,60,820 units from 2,33,838 units sold in August 2022. It was however, a MoM growth of 13.26 percent when compared to 1,42,990 units sold in July 2023. This list also included Suzuki (83,045 units) and Enfield (69,393 units) both of which have reported YoY and MoM growth.Two Wheeler Exports August 2023Dismal performance was seen in export markets with the leading 6 two wheeler makers posting lackluster sales. Total exports stood at 2,70,343 units, down 0.35 percent YoY from 2,71,301 units exported in August 2022 while MoM exports slipped 5.49 percent over 2,86,058 units shipped in July 2023.Two Wheeler Exports August 2023Bajaj Auto saw the highest exports at 1,24,211 units in the past month, up 1.99 percent from 1,21,787 units sold in August 2023 while MoM sales dipped 2.08 percent from 1,26,850 units shipped in July 2023. Bajaj Auto currently commands a 45.95 percent share in export markets. TVS exports dipped both YoY and MoM to 75,491 units in August 2023. This was down 0.95 percent YoY from 76,214 units shipped in August 2023 and down 2.06 percent MoM from 77,077 units exported in July 2023.Honda two wheeler exports dipped significantly by 32.86 percent to 26,390 units in the past month from 39,307 units exported in August 2022. MoM exports also ended in the red down 3.84 percent from 27,443 units shipped in July 2023. Suzuki (20,291 units), Hero MotoCorp (15,770 units) and Enfield (8,190 units) each posted a YoY growth while Suzuki and Hero also saw a MoM decline in exports by 26.29 percent and 21.57 percent respectively. Enfield exports grew by 16.09 percent from 7,055 units shipped in July 2023.Two Wheeler Total August 2023 – Sales + ExportsTotal 2 Wheeler Sales August 2023Increased domestic sales resulted in positive total sales of these 6 two wheeler makers in August 2023. Total sales stood at 17,64,367 units in August 2023, up 1.05 percent from 17,45,966 units sold in August 2022. MoM sales improved by 18.28 percent from 14,91,720 units sold in July 2023.It was Hero that led the sales list with 4,88,717 units sold last month, up 5.64 percent from 4,62,608 units sold in August 2022. MoM sales also grew by 24.89 percent over 3,91,310 units sold in July 2022. Honda sales improved by 3.26 percent YoY and even more significantly by 41.17 percent MoM to 4,77,590 units in August 2023. There were 4,62,523 units and 3,38,310 units sold in August 2022 and July 2023 respectively.TVS Motor posted a 5.25 percent YoY growth and 6.34 percent MoM growth to 3,32,110 units in the past month while Bajaj Auto’s total sales fell by 19.85 percent to 2,85,031 units on a YoY basis. Bajaj Sales however, improved by 6.02 percent MoM from 2,68,840 units sold in July 2023. There was also Suzuki (1,03,336 units) and Royal Enfield (77,583 units) total sales last month. Both saw increased YoY growth while Suzuki sales dipped on a MoM basis by 4.17 percent from 1,07,838 units sold in July 2023. More

  • in

    Which Royal Enfield 350cc Should You Buy – Classic, Bullet, Hunter, Meteor

    Which 350cc Royal Enfield Motorcycle To Buy?The new Bullet 350 is Rs. 19K more affordable than Classic 350, but costs Rs. 24K more than Hunter 350 (prices ex-sh)Royal Enfield has established itself as the de facto 350cc motorcycle brand. The company launched its most iconic 2023 Bullet 350 for Rs. 1.73 lakh (ex-sh). It now packs J-series underpinnings, making it much more modern than before. Now that all RE bikes pack the same basic powertrain and hardware, which one to take home?Should you buy the Bullet 350?Royal Enfield enjoys little to no competition from rival brands like Honda, Jawa and Yezdi. But there is healthy competition from within the brand’s 350cc lineup. New Bullet 350 will lock horns with its stablemates like Classic 350, Meteor 350 and the value champ Hunter 350.Royal Enfield 350cc motorcycles and their pricesAll motorcycles offer identical powertrain and almost similar hardware. So, we compared design, rider comfort, and emotional and monetary aspects, rather than specs and numbers. Getting specs out of the way, all 350cc bikes from Royal Enfield come equipped with J-series engine with 349cc displacement, around 20 bhp of power and 27 Nm of torque.Braking setup, suspension setup and chassis are almost comparable with each offering a unique character. Rider ergonomics change as Meteor is a relaxed cruiser, while Hunter takes a slight scrambler-esque approach. Bullet and Classic come close with almost similar rider’s triangles. With that out of the way, let’s talk about design.Royal Enfield 350cc motorcycles and their designWe can see that fuel tank design is almost similar between Classic and Bullet, with the former getting a rubber tank pad. Bullet 350 seems to have a slightly taller handlebar. Classic 350 has elliptical air box while Bullet 350 has a square one. Bullet 350 has a slightly more retro rear fender and gets a single-piece seat.Royal Enfield Hunter 350 coloursIs Hunter 350 all the motorcycle you need?Other than that, headlights, pilot lights, turn indicators, instrument cluster, exhaust and other attributes are identical between Bullet 350 and Classic 350. Essentially, Bullet 350 costs Rs. 19K less than Classic 350 (at base variants) and is technically the same motorcycle. Meteor 350 has the chunkiest fuel tank but doesn’t hold 20L petrol like its predecessor did.However, it does offer the most relaxed riding position with an easy-to-reach handlebar and most front-set footpegs. Top-spec Supernova variants offer a tall windscreen and pillion backrest, that significantly aids during log-distance touring. Meteor 350 makes perfect sense if long-distance rides are your jam and being comfortable throughout, is a priority.Royal Enfield Bullet 350 coloursHunter 350 is still the most affordable motorcycle, starting from Rs. 1,49,900 (ex-sh). For context, Bullet 350 is Rs. 24K, Classic 350 is Rs. 43K and Meteor 350 is Rs. 55K more expensive than Hunter 350. Even the base Hunter Retro packs the same engine, same performance, and similar componentry. Not only is Hunter affordable, but it is lightest and the most compact too.On surface level, all 350cc Royal Enfield motorcycles are the same vanilla ice cream with different toppings. It boils down to specific design details and colour schemes, more than specs and numbers. Either way, Meteor 350 and Hunter 350 have their own target demographic with significant changes in riding position and rider comfort.Royal Enfield Classic 350 coloursMeteor prioritises comfort and long-distance touring, while Hunter aims for a sporty and neo retro appeal. The main confusion is with Bullet 350 and Classic 350. Up until now, Bullet 350 was a significant downgrade when compared to Classic 350 and added price for the latter was justifiable.With 2023 Bullet 350, Royal Enfield has given it every single functional attribute of a Classic 350. Considering Bullet 350 has everything that Classic 350 does and costs Rs. 19K less, is a factor enough for many. Also, Bullet brand might prove a slight advantage over Classic brand owing to its massive appeal and recall.Royal Enfield Meteor 350 colours More

  • in

    Bajaj Sales Aug 2023 2W, CVs – Pulsar, Avenger, Platina, CT, Dominar

    Bajaj PulsarBajaj Auto two wheeler sales continue to decline in Aug 2023 – Down by 31%Bajaj Auto, one of India’s leading two-wheeler and commercial vehicle manufacturers, has released its sales performance report for August 2023. The company’s performance reflects a mixed bag of results across different segments, showcasing both triumphs and challenges in a dynamic market.Aug 2023 Bajaj Auto Two-Wheeler Sales: A Mixed PictureThe year-on-year comparison of two-wheeler sales for August 2023 reveals a significant decline in the domestic market, with a 31.23% drop compared to August 2022. Domestic sales in August 2023 stood at 1,60,820 units, down from 2,33,838 units the previous year. However, the export market fared better, with a 1.99% growth in sales. Bajaj Auto exported 1,24,211 units in August 2023 compared to 1,21,787 units in August 2022.Bajaj Auto Sales Aug 2023 – 2W vs CVsMonth-on-month, August 2023 showed a positive trend with a 13.26% increase in domestic sales compared to July 2023, when 1,41,990 units were sold. On the export front, there was a slight dip of 2.08% from July 2023 when 1,26,850 units were exported.Aug 2023 Bajaj Auto Commercial Vehicle Segment ShinesBajaj Auto’s commercial vehicles (CVs) segment, which includes three-wheelers and the Qute quadricycle, demonstrated remarkable growth. Year-on-year, the domestic CVs sales witnessed an impressive surge of 93.22%, with 44,280 units sold in August 2023 compared to 22,917 units in the same month of the previous year. Conversely, exports in this segment declined by 46.48%, with 12,337 units exported in August 2023, down from 23,053 units in August 2022.Bajaj Auto Sales Aug 2023Total Bajaj Auto Sales Aug 2023Combining the two-wheeler and commercial vehicle segments, Bajaj Auto’s total sales for August 2023 showed a year-on-year decline of 14.93%. In August 2023, a total of 3,41,648 units were sold, compared to 4,01,595 units in August 2022.Bajaj Auto Sales YTD FY 24Bajaj Auto Fiscal Year-to-Date PerformanceLooking at the fiscal year-to-date performance, Bajaj Auto’s two-wheeler sales witnessed an 18.68% growth in the domestic market but faced a 25.80% drop in exports compared to the same period last year. In the commercial vehicle segment, the company achieved an astounding 125.48% growth in domestic sales but saw a 29.02% decrease in exports. This robust domestic growth in CVs significantly contributed to the company’s overall performance.When combining both two-wheelers and commercial vehicles, Bajaj Auto reported a substantial 29.45% growth in domestic sales and a 26.13% decrease in exports during the fiscal year to date. Bajaj Auto’s two-wheeler range boasts an array of motorcycles, including Pulsar, Dominar, CT, Platina, and Avenger, as well as the Chetak electric scooter in the domestic market. In the export market, they offer a diverse lineup comprising Boxer, Pulsar, CT, Discover, Dominar, Platina, and Avenger motorcycles.Despite the challenges posed by various market factors, Bajaj Auto continues to be a dominant player in the Indian automotive industry. The company’s diversified product range and focus on domestic sales in the commercial vehicle segment appear to be key factors in its resilience and growth. Bajaj Auto remains committed to delivering quality vehicles to its customers, and industry watchers will be closely monitoring its performance as the fiscal year progresses. More