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    Hero Karizma XMR 210 Review – First Impressions on the Ride

    Hero Karizma XMR 210 ReviewHero Karizma XMR 210 Review – First Ride. Unveiling the Design: Visual AestheticsKarizma, once a revered aspiration among enthusiasts, remarkably from a manufacturer primarily focused on simple commuter bikes, returns for another revival. Our first ride Hero Karizma XMR 210 Review touches upon what’s so new. So different. Over the course of two decades, there have been occasional efforts to rejuvenate its legacy.Hero Karizma XMR 210 ReviewThe latest iteration that has just been unveiled introduces such sweeping and innovative modifications that the only discernible link to the original Karizma lies in the labels adorning its fuel tank. This leaves us with the pressing question of whether the all-new XMR version can truly live up to the fervent expectations of loyal fans and, perhaps even more critically, if it possesses the potential to dethrone the firmly-established R15 from its current dominance in the market.Hero Karizma XMR 210 ReviewAt first glance, the bike exudes sporty elements, trims and edges. However, taking a broader view reveals it’s not solely a track machine. It prioritises comfort, pushing the boundaries of what a sports bike can provide. Before dismissing the Karizma XMR, consider a test ride. It might surprise you as the ideal blend of a stylish daily commuter and a weekend escape companion.Karizma XMR Review – Adjustable windscreen, USB Charging Port, SwitchgearsFeatures are truly aplenty. Karizma XMR’s adjustable windscreen, a pioneering addition. A conveniently placed button on the fairing’s right side allows riders to change the height from their seated position. It offers a two-step adjustment with a 30mm range. The stylish rearview mirrors not only enhance aesthetics but also provide an expansive field of view for added convenience and safety.Hero Karizma XMR 210 ReviewThe USB charging port is conveniently located, ensuring easy access. Switchgears offer a pleasing tactile feel, although with leather gloves, the indicator switches can be challenging to operate. Notably, a hazard light switch is present, a common feature in lower-tier bikes. However, its widespread use by uninformed riders on highways raises concerns. Many are unaware of the potential hazards, particularly during rainy nights, where its misuse can contribute to accidents. Education on proper usage remains imperative for road safety.Hero Karizma XMR 210 ReviewUser-Friendly Display: Karizma XMR’s Informative Instrument PanelThe colour display, both stylish and clear, presents a wealth of information. It boasts a user-friendly layout, easily toggled using the switchgear button. Among the easiest to read in its class, it offers impressive legibility. Furthermore, the instrument panel can be synced with a smartphone, unlocking functionalities such as turn-by-turn navigation assistance for added convenience on the road.Remarkably, the bike features a nifty addition—a self-activating LED projector headlight that utilises an ambient light sensor in low-light conditions. Turn indicators, elegantly designed, exude durability and do not appear to require fashionable replacements, a departure from the common inclination for customisation.Hero Karizma XMR 210 ReviewPower: Hero Karizma XMR 210’s Engine and PerformanceTurning our attention to the engine, our anticipation grew as we prepared to experience Hero MotoCorp’s inaugural venture into a liquid-cooled, DOHC engine, harmoniously paired with a Steel Trellis frame—a revelation. The 210 cc 4-valve single-cylinder engine impresses, delivering 25.15 hp peak power at 9,250 rpm and 20.4 Nm peak torque at 7,250 rpm. It seamlessly integrates with a 6-speed gearbox featuring a slip and assist clutch. Hero claims the XMR can sprint from 0 to 60 kmph in a mere 3.8 seconds, underscoring its spirited performance credentials.The engine emits a pleasing and enticing roar, enhancing its desirability, a trait amplified by its high-revving nature. While a hint of vibration emerges in the mid-range, it remains inconsequential, not impinging on the overall ride quality even during extended journeys. Hero impressively maintains a remarkably low level of harshness, consistent with their other offerings.Hero Karizma XMR 210 ReviewComfort Meets Commuting: Karizma XMR’s Suspension SystemEngine responsiveness caters well to riders seeking a more leisurely pace, as the power delivery exhibits a late onset. However, this characteristic doesn’t relegate the pursuit of triple-digit speeds to a distant aspiration. Karizma gracefully breaches the 100 kmph mark. Although we didn’t have the opportunity to validate this claim, Hero asserts that the bike can approach a commendable 150 kmph under favourable conditions, further elevating its performance credentials.The suspension system is pleasantly soft, aptly attuned to the enduringly uneven road conditions prevalent in our country. This choice ensures a comfortable and stable ride, accommodating the diverse needs of commuters navigating various terrains.During our brief ride in Delhi’s bustling city, the tyres demonstrated adequate grip, instilling confidence for urban manoeuvres.Hero Karizma XMR 210 ReviewOn the Road: Hero Karizma XMR 210 Ride, and HandlingHero introduces its inaugural dual-channel ABS system with this model, marking a significant leap in their safety offerings. The braking system aligns with the bike’s overall design philosophy, striking a balance between responsiveness and moderation. While it may not deliver the heart-pounding bite sought by enthusiasts, it exhibits a level of competence and reliability tailored to the average commuter’s requirements. The brakes efficiently translate the rider’s input through the lever, delivering controlled and predictable stopping power for enhanced safety on the road.With an ex-showroom price of Rs. 1.73 lakhs, Hero Karizma XMR strategically positions itself just Rs. 10,000 below the Yamaha R15. This shrewd move entails forgoing certain modern features, such as USD forks, commonly found in this segment. This calculated choice is astute, given the substantial market demand for a bike primarily intended for comfortable commuting and occasional touring, roles the R15 isn’t engineered for. Customers are likely to appreciate the distinctive features Hero has incorporated, which instil pride of ownership, prioritising them over elements like USD forks and similar attributes.Hero Karizma XMR 210 ReviewHero Karizma XMR 210 Review Final Verdict: 2023 Karizma XMR is Worth the Hype?For those well-acquainted with the previous Karizma, 2023 Karizma XMR might feel like a classic case of “old vs. new Baleno.” The name serves more as a nod to familiarity than an embodiment of the past model’s essence. 2023 Karizma XMR is a modern reinterpretation, prioritising comfort and commuter-friendly features over nostalgia for the old model’s sportier attributes. What is your take on the 2023 Karizma XMR? More

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    Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R Teased – 80bhp At 14,500 RPM!

    Kawasaki teaser compared with ZX-4R and ZX-6RCurrently, Kawasaki Z900 is India’s most affordable 4-cyl naked bike at Rs. 9.2 lakh and Honda CBR650R in fully-faired space at Rs. 9.35 lakh (prices ex-sh)India adores 4-cylinder motorcycles. Since Benelli pulled the plugs on TNT 600i, the most affordable 4-cylinder motorcycle in India has been Kawasaki Z900. This will change soon as Kawasaki India has teased a new 4-cylinder machine, that is highly likely to be Ninja ZX-4R, with launch slated on 11th September.Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R Teased – Budget Dhoom bike?Kawasaki is bringing a new 4-cylinder Ninja motorcycle to our shores on 11th September 2023. The company’s teaser featured a 4-cylinder engine layout and #Ninjalife in it along with fascia of a faired bike. Considering Kawasaki already sells Ninja ZX-10R in India, this could either be ZX-6R, ZX-4R or ZX-25R.Given the price-to-performance ratio of ZX-4R, we would lean on it more than the other two. That said, Kawasaki had offered ZX-6R in India in the past and it would only make sense to bring it back. However, looking at the bike’s outline in Kawasaki’s new teaser, we would wager that this is ZX-4R and not ZX-6R. Considering Kawasaki mentioned ‘motorcycle’ and not ‘motorcycles’. We’re likely to only get ZX-4R.Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RZX-4R packs a 399 cc in-line 4-cylinder engine kicking out 80 bhp of power at 14,500 RPM and 39 Nm of torque at 13,000 RPM. The 6-speed gearbox will probably get a bi-directional quick-shifter too. At least as an option. 14,500 RPM is definitely in screamer category. The bigger brother ZX-6R gets a 636 cc in-line 4-cylinder engine with 129 bhp of power on tap at 13,000 RPM and 69 Nm of torque at 10,800 RPM. A 6-speed gearbox with a quick-shifter may be part of the package.Feature-packed modern Kawasaki machinesRegardless of which bike Kawasaki is launching in India, CBU route is highly likely. Launch will happen on 11th September 2023. So, pricing will be high when compared to how much they’ll cost in global markets. As per componentry, SFF-BP USD telescopic front forks, rear mono-shock suspension, sporty racing clip-on handlebars, rear set footpegs, neatly designed fairing are common between both ZX-6R and ZX-4R.ZX-6R gets an adjustable suspension feature, that ZX-4R lacks. Braking hardware comprises of dual-disc setup at front and a single-disc setup at the rear with both bikes. 220 mm rear disc is common between the two, while ZX-4R sports 290 mm twin discs at the front and ZX-6R comes with 310 mm dual discs.Revving up the excitement…!!!We are going to unleash our new Inline four masterpiece in India on 11th September,2023.Stay tuned for the unveiling of our newest motorcycle, where style meets power!!#Kawasaki #IndiaKawasakiMotors #KawasakiIndia #NinjaLife #LetTheGoodTimesRoll pic.twitter.com/jMA4gt3E4b— IndiaKawasaki (@india_kawasaki) September 6, 2023Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R gets a 160-section rear tyre, while ZX-6R packs a fatter 180-section rear tyre. LED headlights, LED tail lights, modern switchgear, fully digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation are standard with both Ninja motorcycles. Rs. 7 lakh to Rs. 8 lakh for ZX-4R seems to be logical (ex-sh). More

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    New Aprilia RS 457 Debuts – 48 Hp Power, 159 Kg Weight (Official TVC)

    New Aprilia RS 457Much awaited New Aprilia RS 457 has made its global debut on the same day as India debut – It will rival KTM RC 390, Kawasaki Ninja 400, Yamaha R3In a thrilling development for motorcycle enthusiasts in India, Aprilia, the renowned Italian motorcycle manufacturer, has unveiled its latest masterpiece, the Aprilia RS 457. This superbike, born from the rich legacy of Aprilia Racing, marks a new milestone in the brand’s commitment to delivering exceptional performance and style to passionate motorcyclists.Aprilia’s Racing Heritage in IndiaThe Indian debut of the Aprilia RS 457 coincides with India’s first-ever MotoGP race, underlining the close connection between Aprilia’s racing experience and the development of this exceptional motorbike. Aprilia’s dominance in the world of racing, with an impressive 297 Grand Prix World Championship wins, has shaped the brand’s identity and technical excellence.New Aprilia RS 457Michele Colaninno, Piaggio Group CEO, highlighted the brand’s recent renewal and expansion. He said, “In recent years, the Aprilia brand has seen an intense burst of renewal, also supported by continued progress in the racing world. The recent introduction of the 660 family has expanded its target, creating a full and competitive range.” Colaninno also expressed excitement about the RS 457’s potential in both domestic and international markets.Staying true to its roots, the RS 457 embodies the iconic design of the RS range, with a double front fairing, underbelly silencer, and a sleek 2-in-1 exhaust. The full LED front headlamp features the distinctive light signature of Aprilia’s larger super sports bikes, and the dashboard boasts a 5-inch TFT colour instrument cluster for a modern and elegant look.New Aprilia RS 457Aprilia RS 457: A Technological MarvelBuilding on the success of the Aprilia RS 660, which became Europe’s best-selling sports bike, the RS 457 inherits the winning formula that revolutionized the sports bike segment. This new offering stands out due to its lightweight construction, ease of handling, and advanced technological features, making it equally at home on the road and the racetrack. Take a look at the official TVC below.[embedded content]One of the standout features of the RS 457 is its cutting-edge liquid-cooled parallel twin-cylinder engine with double camshaft timing and four valves per cylinder. This powerplant delivers an impressive 48 horsepower while minimizing vibrations, resulting in a unique and thrilling riding experience. Moreover, the RS 457’s remarkable power-to-weight ratio sets it apart from its competitors, with a dry weight of 159 kg (175 kg when wet). This balance of power and weight is a testament to Aprilia’s dedication to performance and rider enjoyment.Craftsmanship in Every DetailAprilia has meticulously designed the RS 457, incorporating technological innovations from the world of racing into a road-ready sports bike. Its aluminium frame, inspired by decades of racing victories, provides exceptional stiffness and agility. The suspension system, including a ø41 mm fork with preload adjustability and a monoshock on a steel swingarm, ensures precise handling.New Aprilia RS 457Braking is equally impressive, with a 320 mm front disc featuring a ByBre radial-mount 4-piston caliper and a 220 mm rear steel disc. A two-channel ABS system adds an extra layer of safety. The RS 457 rides on 17-inch sports rims fitted with 110/70 front and 150/60 rear tires for outstanding grip and maneuverability.Advanced Electronic FeaturesNew Aprilia RS 457 boasts a superbike-level electronic package, including a Ride by Wire system with three riding modes that adjust power delivery and traction control. Riders can fine-tune their experience with three levels of traction control or disable it altogether. Additionally, a quickshifter is available as an accessory, further enhancing the bike’s performance.New Aprilia RS 457The Aprilia RS 457 promises to be a game-changer in the world of sports bikes, offering an exhilarating riding experience that reflects Aprilia’s racing heritage and dedication to performance. With its arrival in India, enthusiasts can look forward to experiencing this technological marvel on both the road and the track. Launch is expected soon.New Aprilia RS 457 More

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    TVS Apache RTR 310 Vs Rivals – 390 Duke, G310R, Speed 400, X440

    TVS Apache RTR 310Even with all the new entrants in this segment, KTM 390 Duke still remains the most powerful machine and the next-gen model will pack more punchThe single-cylinder naked performance motorcycle segment is on the boil with back-to-back launches from legacy motorcycle brands. TVS has just entered the chat with Apache RTR 310. As per pricing, TVS has pulled quite a feat. The launch price start from Rs. 2.43 lakh and go till Rs. 2.64 lakh. BTO (Built To Order) options are on offer too and cost Rs. 18K for Dynamic and Rs. 22K for Dynamic Pro kit.TVS Apache RTR 310 Vs Rivals – Which one to buy?Despite being platform partners, there is a plethora of kit that TVS has over BMW. Along with a more aggressive engine tune than G 310 R. Other logical rivals include newly launched Triumph Speed 400 and KTM 390 Duke. Because of pricing, we have included Harley-Davidson X440 as well.Both KTM and TVS aim for sportiness and aggression, appealing to younger audience. BMW has a slightly less sober, yet sporty appearance. Harley-Davidson X440 and Triumph Speed 400 aim for timeless classic appeal and blend modern and retro elements. Where raw power figures are concerned, there is still no beating KTM 390 Duke at 43 bhp.The new 390 Duke with a 399cc engine will amplify that aspect even further. Harley-Davidson X440 has the most torque at 38 Nm. Triumph Speed 400 is pretty much up there with 40 bhp and 37 Nm. TVS-BMW’s 310 platform is short on performance numbers on paper. Apache RTR 310 has 1.1 bhp power and 0.8 Nm torque more than G 310 R.mg-astor-blackstorm-launched – 1Except for X440, every motorcycle gets liquid cooling, a 6-speed gearbox, a 4V head and a DOHC setup. TVS is known to stuff their vehicles with features and Apache RTR 310 is no exception. In the table above, you can see the features Apache has over others.Apache RTR 310 has the fattest brochure of the bunch390 Duke has some special attributes too, but nothing that Apache doesn’t pack. Also, 390 Duke has a few ABS traction modes like SuperMoto. However, TVS packs 5 riding modes and BMW G 310 R has 4 riding modes. Dimension-wise touring-friendly X440 has the biggest wheelbase and corner carver 390 Duke and RTR 310 has the smallest.RTR 310 has 180mm ground clearance, which is the highest in this list. All motorcycles in this list have disc brakes at both ends and dual-channel ABS. USD telescopic front forks are common too. Harley-Davidson has twin shock absorbers, while others sport a mono-shock rear suspension setup.TVS Apache RTR 310 cooled and heated seatsNo motorcycle on this list is skimping on an all-LED lighting setup in the name of retro appeal. That said, Triumph Speed 400 is the only one with a semi-digital instrument cluster. And it lacks Bluetooth connectivity too. Because Speed 400 is the most affordable of the bunch at Rs. 2.33 lakh (ex-sh), and packs quite a punch, we can easily forgive it.Despite G 310 R having a fully digital instrument screen, there is no connectivity suite on offer. Maybe BMW should have bundled TVS’ proprietary SmartXonnect connectivity suite. But that’s not the case and at Rs. 2.85 lakh (ex-sh), starts to make less sense than other rivals. Despite its retro appeal, Harley-Davidson X440 packs a Bluetooth connectivity suite.Which bike to buy?KTM has been offering Bluetooth connectivity since 2nd gen Duke. TVS’ implementation seems the most extensive and more user-friendly as well. Harley X440 packs the skinniest tyres, but it has 18” front wheel, which allows for an upright stance and the twin shock absorbers better support weight of added luggage.For riders seeking least number of gizmos and a pure motorcycling experience, Triumph seems to be the bike to go for. It is the most affordable and boasts less service intervals too. For riders who want an experience most of the features and motorcycle-related tech for future big bike upgrades, TVS seems to be a tempting buy.Especially with the BTO kits which unlock adjustable suspension and novelty features like cooled and heated seats. New-gen KTM 390 Duke is unveiled with India launch in the pipeline. As per BMW G 310 R, Apache RTR seems to have everything it has and loads more, while costing significantly less. More

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    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

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    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

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    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

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    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