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    Upcoming TVS Cruiser Patent Leaks Before Launch – Royal Enfield Rival ?

    Render for illustration purpose only.As compared to the current range of TVS motorcycles, the new cruiser appears to have a relatively sober profileIt is known that TVS is working on a new flagship bike. The middleweight segment has registered strong growth and has significant future potential. This makes a strong case for TVS to expand its portfolio and introduce new premium products.There are various options that can be considered for middleweight segment. It could be a roadster, scrambler, ADV, etc. However, the patent filed by TVS reveals the typical design of a cruiser. Based on whether it is below or above 500cc, the new TVS cruiser will go up against Royal Enfield Meteor 350 or Super Meteor 650. Upcoming TVS cruiser motorcycle – Design patent leaksTVS new cruiser bike – styling and featuresTVS new cruiser has a neo-retro profile. It has the old school, laidback look and feel, quite different from the current range of TVS motorcycles. Some of the key highlights include a round headlamp, USD front forks, a large engine, curvy fuel tank and a single exhaust pipe. Users can expect comfortable rides with features such as the wide, swept-back handlebar and forward-set foot pegs.For the new cruiser, it is possible that TVS could use the expertise of British brand Norton Motorcycles. TVS had acquired Norton Motorcycles in 2020. The deal was valued at around Rs 153 crore. In April 2022, TVS announced investments worth £100 million (more than Rs 1,000 crore) in Norton Motorcycles. With such massive investments, it will be safe to assume that TVS is planning something big. There could be a plan to aggressively target global markets with the new generation of TVS motorcycles.Upcoming TVS cruiser motorcycle – Design patent leaksTVS new cruiser performance, specsAlthough TVS new cruiser can be seen with a large, wide-bodied engine, it is not certain if it’s a single-cylinder or twin-cylinder unit. If displacement is around 650cc to 700cc, there’s a likelihood of a twin-cylinder motor. TVS-owned Norton Motorcycles has several big bikes powered by parallel twin motor. Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 also utilizes a parallel-twin setup. The 648cc engine churns out 47 PS of max power and 52.3 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox.At rear, TVS cruiser is expected to get dual rear shock absorbers. It will be interesting to see what kind of aural experiences the new TVS cruiser comes up with. Surely, TVS will be looking to create something unique and exhilarating.In terms of launch timelines, there’s no clarity at this point of time. However, it is likely that TVS will be looking to launch the cruiser as soon as possible. TVS is also working on other new products. For example, multiple new electric two-wheelers will be launched in the next 12 to 13 months. These will be in the 5kW to 25kW category. TVS will also launch a naked streetfighter version of the existing bestseller Apache RR310. More

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    Hero Xtreme 160R 4V USD Forks – Launch Price Rs. 1,36,500

    2023 Hero Xtreme 160R 4V LaunchedThe new oil-cooled 163cc engine on Hero Xtreme 160R 4V gets a 4V head as the name suggests and generates 16.9 Ps/12.4kW @ 8500rpm
    For the first time in recent past, Hero MotoCorp is making big revisions to its premium motorcycle range (160cc+). This began with launching of MY2023 Xpulse 200 4V and Xpulse 200 4V Pro motorcycles. At the flagship end, there is Karizma which is set to launch by the end of 2023. Now, Hero has taken wraps off MY2023 Hero Xtreme 160R 4V with USD forks.
    This is a big revision for Xtreme 160R and is a much-needed one at that. There are two variants, Standard and Pro variants. Hero has priced this Standard variant at Rs. 1,27,300, Rs. 1,32,800 for the connected variant and Rs. 1,36,500 for Pro variant (all prices ex-sh) and it is a tempting proposition as it is the only motorcycle to offer a 4V head and USD front forks in the same package. The new colour additions are Matte Slate Black, Neon Shooting Star and Blazing Sports Red.
    Hero Xtreme 160R 4V – The new king of 160cc segment?
    160cc space is currently dominated by two manufacturers. TVS with its Apache RTR 160 (both 2V and 4V) and Bajaj with its Pulsar NS160 and Pulsar N160. Honda X-Blade and Hero Xtreme 160R fall in the same segment but don’t sell as many motorcycles. TVS Apache RTR 160 4V was the only one with a 4V head.
    Pulsar NS160 was the only one with KYB USD front forks. Hero seems to be making a best-case scenario in this segment by bundling both of these attributes in the same package. As of now, Bajaj Pulsar N160 and Pulsar NS160 packed oil cooling setup. But Hero seems to have jumped in the bandwagon too and is offering oil-cooling setup.
    MY2023 Hero Xtreme 160R 4V Specs
    This should vastly reduce heating and expand headroom to extract more performance with the 4V head. This 4V head ensures increased performance, fuel efficiency, durability (with reduced wear and tear due to reciprocation of smaller valves), engine speed and reduce vibrations and make the engine sustain higher speeds for longer.
    Pulsar NS160 and Pulsar N160 get dual-channel ABS options. The 163cc single-cylinder engine makes 16.9 PS @ 8500 RPM, 14.6 Nm of torque @6500 RPM, mated to a 5-speed gearbox. Kerb weight is 144 kg.
    Added features are extensive
    Apart from a 4V head, oil-cooling setup and USD front forks, Hero has offered quite a few design revisions as well. There is a slightly revised fuel tank and headlight cluster to lend a slightly athletic demeanor. The belly pan look similar to Stealth Edition variant, but knuckle guards are missing. Belly pan gets a new 4V sticker to signify its improved mechanicals.
    MY2023 Hero Xtreme 160R 4V Prices
    MY2023 Hero Xtreme 160R 4V Colour
    Hero Xtreme 160R 4V with USD front forks gets LED headlights, LED tail lights with smoked effect, LED turn indicators at both ends with hazard light function, rear disc brake option and more. Instrumentation is fully digital and features Bluetooth connectivity as well. Hero didn’t mention anything about navigation and dual-channel ABS. The latter is on offer with Pulsar N160 and Pulsar NS160.
    The company promises Xtreme 160R 4V will be the fastest one in its segment in a straight line and the fastest to a quarter-mile, which should be its main USP. Also, Hero mentions it is the lightest in its segment as well. For people who want the outgoing 2V model, Hero has retained it and is still on sale as well. More

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    Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 Bares Its Adventurous Soul – Spied with no Cladding

    Royal Enfield Himalayan 450The new 450cc single-cylinder engine on Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 is likely to generate 35 bhp of power and 40 Nm of torque
    Ever since the first set of Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 test mules emerged, it has been a sensational piece. There is a lot of anticipation for this motorcycle as it is a step above for Royal Enfield when compared to what it is currently doing with single-cylinder motorcycles. Launch is nearing, given the increasing frequency of test mule sightings.
    The recent test mule spy shots from Austria show zero camouflage on it. Most of the body panels and components look like they’re production-ready as well. It still features a generic Black shade, which doesn’t reflect the final finish quality and parameters, though. Royal Enfield seems to be acquiring final data ahead of launch.
    Ahead of the Curve: A Leap Forward in Adventure Motorcycles
    Unlike Indian test mules with extremely overdone camouflage including plastic corrugated sheets and cardboard as well. Test mules spotted in India look excessive in every sense of the world. For starters, the spy shots from Austria show a few exposed wiring leading to the rear top box where testing equipment is present.
    The previous set of test mules from India showed a smaller beak, which might be broken while testing. Test mules crashing while testing is getting quite common too. Also, it featured official accessories like side panniers with pannier mounts and a top box. There were electrical accessories too, like auxiliary lights.
    Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 Side view
    But those could very well be DT horns too, considering the positioning, which will only light up the front wheel. Now that Royal Enfield Himalayan is entering final phases of testing, we can expect it to globally debut by the end of 2023. Probably at 2023 EICMA show.
    A radical approach to new-age ADVs
    Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 is moving a notch above where technology is concerned. There are a lot of firsts associated with this motorcycle. For starters, this is the first Royal Enfield single-cylinder motorcycle to feature LED headlights and USD front forks. It is the first RE to feature a liquid-cooled engine. Even the flagship 650 twins feature oil-cooling.
    Speaking of the engine, it is a brand new 450cc unit that is likely to be on par with KTM 390 Adventure and upcoming Hero Xpulse 440. Rumour mill suggests a 6-speed gearbox too, which is a first for any RE single-cylinder motorcycle. This new engine is likely to develop 35 bhp of power and 40 Nm of torque. Stroke is likely to be greater than bore to ensure a torquey character.
    Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 rear view
    Componentry includes USD front forks and rear mono-shock suspension with long travel, 21” front and 17” wire-spoke wheels (size not official), disc brakes at both ends, dual channel ABS, dual purpose tubed tyres, a long wheelbase along with high ground clearance, a circular instrument console that will probably have Bluetooth connectivity with navigation and more. Lighting is LED all around and rear tail lights are integrated within rear turn indicators, which is a neat touch.

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    KTM Electric Scooter Spied Testing For The First Time

    KTM Electric scooter spotted testingDesign for this KTM electric scooter is similar to that of EMotion concept surfaced some time ago with sharp and distinctive stylingTeam Orange is looking to expand its portfolio to include both vehicles for the present and future. We’re talking about KTM’s electric 2W portfolio that the Austrian company has hinted at multiple times already. The first set of test mules surfaced recently. Reveals a sporty and muscular electric scooter that resembles the EMotion concept.Conversely, this electric scooter might very well be Husqvarna’s as well. Regardless of whether this is for KTM or Husqvarna, Bajaj will manufacture it at its new Akurdi plant dedicated to EV production under the Chetak Technology name. Let’s take a look at what’s what.KTM Electric Scooter Spotted TestingWe would wager that this is a KTM Electric scooter and not Husqvarna. We say this because this test mule doesn’t look anything like the recent Husqvarna Vectorr concept. If Bajaj is co-developing an electric scooter for Husqvarna, there would be some semblance with Vectorr. The test engineer wore KTM’s riding gear too, kinda giving it away.This test mule has a dual projector setup arranged vertically, a design aesthetic that KTM has used with its rally motorcycles. EMotion concept by Kiska deliberately achieved to resemble KTM’s edgy and sharp aesthetics. Except for the wide-body panels on the EMotion concept, this new test mule is reminiscent of the EMotion concept by Kiska and is highly likely to be for KTM.EMotion concept by KiskaFor starters, this is not a step-through scooter at all. There is a large tunnel above the floorboard-mounted battery. This battery section has a blue sticker that reads “Clima Energiefonds” (Climate Energy Funds), which denotes EU’s and Austria’s electric vehicle subsidies.We have a tall windscreen at the front, an 8” touchscreen instrumentation system behind it, a muscular front apron, sleek side body panels, tall alloy wheels at both ends (probably 14”), single piece seat, custom CNC-milled aluminium swingarm, grab rail and air-cooling jacket. These CNC-milled metallic parts are for prototyping only, while production parts will probably be cast.Powertrain details revealed by EMotionThere are disc brakes at both ends. Motor is likely to be a mid-mounted one. Belt drive is highly probable given that this is an electric vehicle with a perception of vibe-free operation. All lighting is LED and the KTM electric scooter features front RSU telescopic forks and a single-sided rear mono-shock. ABS rings are visible, so the company might bundle dual-channel ABS.KTM Electric Scooter Aluminium SwingarmEMotion stands for Electric Mobility in L-Category for all generations. Design documentation reveals a 4 kW (5.5 bhp) and an 8 kW (11 bhp) variation. Top speed might be around 100 km/h and range might be around 100 km. This test mule is likely to be the very first and hence features make-shift 3D printed body panels. Given how popular e-scooters have become in India, there is a possibility of this launching in India as well.Source More

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    Himalayan 450 Accessories On Test – Aluminium Panniers, Aux Lights

    Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 accessoriesAccessories for all-new Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 will be largely similar to that of existing Himalayan 411Expected to be launched during the festive season, all-new Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 has been frequently spotted on road tests. Recent sightings included some production-spec test mules as well.As launch nears, Royal Enfield has started testing the accessories for new Himalayan. Just like existing model, accessories for Himalayan 450 will be categorized across style, comfort and protection. Latest spy shots are credited to Poonkathirvelan Boopalan.Himalayan 450 accessories spiedThe test mule can be seen with aluminium side panniers, along with a top box. The side panniers appear to have the same design, as available with existing Himalayan. However, loading capacity could be different. The side panniers will be available in both metallic and blacked-out finish.For existing Himalayan, the side panniers are priced at Rs 29,900. One also needs to buy pannier rails, costing an additional Rs 3,800. The side panniers of existing Himalayan have a loading capacity of 26 litres and come with locks for complete peace of mind.Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 accessoriesHimalayan 450’s top box is larger and could have a capacity of around 40-45 litres. All corners have thick ABS protection, which helps avoid ugly dents in the metal. With around hundred litres of covered storage and ability to haul more luggage at rear, Himalayan 450 seems a perfect fit for long distance touring.Another accessory spotted is auxiliary lights. These are mounted near the radiator. It is to note that there are lots of aftermarket options available for existing Himalayan and other Royal Enfield bikes. In case of accessories that utilize the bike’s electrical and electronic systems, using aftermarket units can lead to violation of warranty rules. Choosing official accessories ensures the perfect fit and finish.All-new Himalayan is expected to get various other accessories. Styling accessories could include reservoir cap and oil filler cap. For comfort, there can be choices for the saddle. For safety, users can choose options like engine guard, master cylinder guard, oil cooler guard and hand guard. Branded bike covers will also be available.Royal Enfield Himalayan 450Himalayan 450 performance, specsHimalayan 450 is based on an entirely new 450cc platform. In future, Royal Enfield could launch other bikes based on the new platform. Powering Himalayan 450 will be a single-cylinder motor. It could generate around 35 bhp of max power and 40 Nm of peak torque. The engine is expected to get a 6-speed transmission. This will make it the first RE single-cylinder bike to get a 6-speed gearbox. Another first for Himalayan 450 is a liquid cooling setup.Other key highlights of Himalayan 450 include tall windscreen, LED lighting, USD front forks, rear monoshock suspension and stubby exhaust. The bike has disc brakes at both ends and dual-channel ABS is expected as standard. It will be getting a single circular TFT instrument console, a significant upgrade in comparison to the multi-dial setup available with existing Himalayan. More

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    Hero Xtreme 160R Black with Golden USD Forks – Revving sound revealed

    New Hero Xtreme 160RHero MotoCorp is upping its game in performance segment with updates for existing portfolio and new product launchesHero Xtreme 160R is pretty well-equipped, offering a sporty profile, peppy performance and a range of connectivity features. However, with rivals like Bajaj Pulsar NS160 getting premium features such as USD forks and dual ABS, it has become imperative for Xtreme 160R to catch up.Hero will soon launch an updated version of Xtreme 160R, which will be getting USD forks. There could be other updates such as improved styling and new colour options. Some new features could also be introduced. In the latest teaser, we can see Xtreme 160R black colour with black alloys and golden USD forks. Hero has also teased the exhaust and revving sound.Xtreme 160R to get USD forksWhile Hero Xtreme has a sporty design, the standard telescopic forks dilute the overall look. It feels like a commuter bike, which weighs in even more as Hero is commonly associated with entry-level bikes. A need to upgrade was never felt before, as most other prominent rivals were using the same equipment. Apart from Pulsar NS160, Hero Xtreme 160R competes with TVS Apache RTR 160 and Suzuki Gixxer.Earlier this year in March, Bajaj took the initiative to offer more value to enthusiasts looking for an entry-level performance machine. It came with the launch of updated Pulsar NS160 and NS200, both of which were equipped with USD front forks. All while achieving a more muscular and dominating profile, USD forks ensure agile handling and aid fast cornering. In essence, USD forks are relevant in terms of both aesthetics and functionality.[embedded content]Hero MotoCorp is looking to achieve a similar set of advantages with Xtreme 160R. Official teasers now reveal the addition of golden USD front forks. As merely adding USD forks may not be enough, Hero may introduce some other updates as well. Following Bajaj Pulsar and Hero Xtreme, TVS and Suzuki could also introduce similar updates with their respective bikes.No engine tweaksUpdated Hero Xtreme will continue with the same engine as earlier. The engine has already been upgraded to comply with the stricter BS6 Phase II emission norms. Powering Hero Extreme 160R is a 163 cc, air cooled motor that generates 15 PS of max power and 14 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 5-speed constant mesh gearbox. In comparison, Pulsar NS160 has a 160.3 cc, oil cooled, 4-valve motor that makes 17.2 PS and 14.6 Nm.Updated Hero Xtreme 160R could have an improved safety kit with features like dual-channel ABS. It may not be standard, but could be offered with the top-spec variant. In its current form, Xtreme 160R has single-channel ABS with 276 mm and 220 mm petal disc at front and rear, respectively. Pulsar NS160 and NS200 are already equipped with dual-channel ABS. More

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    TVS Miami Blue Colour Concept Showcased – Apache, Raider, Ntorq

    TVS Apache RR 310 Miami Blue. Image – Samuel CarvajalOnly the Colombian market is likely to get TVS Miami Blue colour along with a new White colour – No mechanical updatesTVS has a diversified portfolio not only in India. But in multiple global markets. One TVS commuter motorcycle even featured in an episode of The Grand Tour where Richard Hammond rides it in Africa. Likewise, TVS has a strong presence in Latin countries like Colombia as well.This is where TVS has showcased two new colours for its motorcycles and scooters. One of the new colours is called Miami Blue and the other is similar to Racing Edition showcased with Apache RTR 200. Images are credited to Samuel Carvajal.TVS Miami Blue Colour ConceptThe models include Apache RR 310 fully-faired bike, Raider 125 sporty commuter, Apache RTR 200 and Ntorq 125 scooter. TVS Miami Blue is a particular highlight . The White will definitely appeal to people who prefer subtle colours, unlike Miami Blue.TVS Miami Blue mainly comprises a teal blue shade and looks particularly spectacular on Apache RR 310. Given that it has more body panel real estate to show this colour off. Miami Blue is present on most of the fairing, side panels and fuel tank. While the sub frame is Black. TVS is playfully using Red accents that bring out Apache RR 310’s sporty lineage.TVS Apache RTR Miami BlueRed is present below headlights and in the tubular chassis. Wheels get half Black, half Red treatment like half-Orange and half-White on a few KTM models. Add to it Gold USD forks, Apache RR 310 looks a million bucks. TVS showcased Apache RTR body style in two colours. Both of them featured Black and Red wheels as well. Take a look at the detailed walkaround video below.[embedded content]One is Miami Blue and the other resembles Racing Edition. Both got a small windscreen, knuckle guards, front caliper cover and more. With Miami Blue on RTR body, TVS has given red elements too, present in faux tank shroud vents and on side body panels. With White colour, Red highlights are only present in faux vents in tank shrouds.Raider 125 and Ntorq 125 get new colours tooIn Colombia, TVS is offering the same Miami Blue and White with Raider 125 too. But Raider 125 lacks any Red highlights. Instead, Raider 125 showcased in White gets White grab handles for pillion, which is not the case with Miami Blue. Other than that, Raider 125 looks fresh in these new shades.TVS Raider 125 Miami BlueLastly, NTORQ 125 gets the same colour too, but retains Red accents. These Red accents are present in the front apron, rear body panels below grab rail and other places. Both Miami Blue and White look good on TVS Ntorq 125. TVS also showcased a video game simulation with Apache RRR 310 as the base vehicle too. Mechanically, these are similar to outgoing models and TVS is keeping its product fresh for the Colombian market with local feedback. We hope TVS brings this Miami Blue shade to India at least with Apache RR 310. More

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    Putting the Brakes on Chandigarh ICE vehicle registration

    Image for illustration purpose.Chandigarh ICE vehicle registration limits – Vroom or Gloom?The Chandigarh Administration is taking significant steps in its EV positive outlook. Chandigarh ICE vehicle registration limits is a solid move at the highest levels. One of the key initiatives is the implementation of the Electric Vehicle Policy 2022. This policy aims to limit and discourage the use of non-electric vehicles by setting registration caps. Let’s explore the registration limits for non-electric/ICE vehicles in Chandigarh.To ensure a gradual transition towards electric vehicles, the Administration has set reduction targets for non-electric vehicles. This includes a 10 percent reduction in 4-wheelers and an ambitious 35 percent reduction in 2-wheelers compared to the previous year.The Road Less Travelled: Chandigarh’s Drive to Ditch ICE VehiclesFor the current financial year, even higher reduction targets have been imposed, with a 20 percent reduction in 4-wheelers and a significant 70 percent reduction in 2-wheelers.As a result of these reduction targets, the registration of non-electric 2-wheelers will be halted after reaching the target of 6,202 registrations. Similarly, the registration of non-electric 4-wheelers will be capped after registering 22,626 vehicles. Once these targets are achieved, the registration of non-electric vehicles (both permanent and temporary) will no longer be allowed in Chandigarh for the fiscal.Taking Charge: Chandigarh’s Electric Vehicle Revolution BeginsImplementing registration limits for non-electric vehicles brings several advantages. Firstly, it helps control the number of ICE vehicles on the roads moving towards further reduction in air pollution and improved air quality in the city. All new vehicles sold at the moment are BS6 P2 compliant.Secondly, it encourages the adoption of electric vehicles, which are being spoken of as more environmentally friendly, and thereby contribute to a sustainable future. Moreover, by setting reduction targets, policy encourages individuals to consider alternative modes of transportation such as public transit, cycling, or walking. And of course you’ll have to think long and hard before buying an ICE vehicle because there’s no way of guaranteeing your vehicle will even be registered.ICE, ICE, Baby: Chandigarh Says ‘No More’The Administration has estimated that the target for non-electric 2-wheelers will be reached by the first week of July 2023. On the other hand, it is expected that the target for non-electric 4-wheelers will be achieved by the end of December.These timelines provide a clear indication of the progress towards eco-friendly transportation goals and the success of the registration limits in curbing the use of non-electric vehicles. The fiscal will clearly have months at an end when no new ICE vehicles will be registered. More