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      2024 KTM 390 Duke Vs Apache RTR 310 Vs Triumph 400 – Which One To Buy?

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      TVS Apache RTR 310As of now, TVS Apache RTR 310 comes out on top with its extensive range of features, creature comforts and electronic rider aidsTVS made quite a spectacle when they launched Apache RTR 310 in India starting from Rs. 2.43 lakh (ex-sh). It packed segment-first and many first-in-any-motorcycle features. However, KTM recently launched its 2024 390 Duke, which is the OG sub 500cc single-cylinder firecracker in India. Let’s see how these motorcycles fare against each other and the slightly sober Triumph Speed 400.2024 KTM 390 Duke Vs Apache RTR 310Pitting 2024 KTM 390 Duke and TVS Apache RTR 310 against each other is rather interesting. We say this because KTM has the upper hand in raw performance and packs a decent number of features, while TVS has features and electronic aids packed to the gills, but is slightly low in sheer power and torque figures.2024 KTM 390 Duke vs TVS Apache RTR 310 vs Triumph Speed 400 comparisonWe have included Triumph Speed 400 as it lends perspectives to this space with minimal rider aids, strong performance numbers and is the most affordable at just Rs. 2.33 lakh (ex-sh). TVS has an attractive starting price of Rs. 2.43 lakh (ex-sh), but it lacks most of the bells and whistles. If fully specced up with BTO packs and Senpang Blue colour options, TVS Apache RTR 310 costs up to Rs. 2.9 lakh (ex-sh) (considering you won’t choose Fury Yellow for Rs. 6K and then Senpang Blue for Rs. 10K on top). KTM 390 Duke straight up costs Rs. 3.11 lakh (ex-sh), no options to tick.Raw performance vs feature-packed experienceIn terms of sheer performance figures, 2024 KTM 390 Duke trumps everything in this price bracket. 45.37 bhp and 39 Nm are easily the highest figures. Apache RTR 310 packs 35.11 horses and 28.7 torques whereas Speed 400 boasts 40 bhp and 37.5 Nm. Both Apache and Duke weigh almost the same, while Speed 400 weighs a hefty 176 kg.2024 KTM 390 DukeAll motorcycles pack a 6-speed gearbox, a slip and assist clutch, ride-by-wire, dual channel ABS and other basics in this space. KTM goes a step ahead and offers ride modes, bi-directional quick shifter, cornering ABS, traction control, launch control, supermoto ABS mode and adjustable suspension with 2024 390 Duke.However, TVS goes all out and packs everything on offer with Duke, along with TPMS, heated and cooled seat, dynamic stability control, cruise control, wheelie control, cornering traction control, rear lift-off control, cornering cruise control, slope dependent control and a few more on top. This makes it a compelling buy for riders who intend to own feature-packed superbikes in the future, and try some of these features on a smaller and friendlier motorcycle.Which one should you buy?Apache is also much friendlier for riders upgrading from a smaller-capacity motorcycle. Duke has the biggest fuel tank and the largest disc at the front. All LED lighting is common between all three motorcycles. Instrumentation is more modern with TVS and KTM, packing connectivity features as well.Triumph Speed 400Triumph aims for a retro appeal and lack of modern instrumentation is easily forgivable as it costs less too. Price quotient is extremely strong with Speed 400 and it is the most performance-oriented single-cylinder neo-retro bike in India. Buyers split between Apache RTR 310 and 2024 390 Duke have to choose between sheer number of features or raw performance. More

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      Bajaj 100cc CNG Motorcycle Possible – 6 New Pulsar Launches This Year

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      New Bajaj Pulsar 220A factory-made CNG motorcycle can be a major disruptor with its low pricing and running costIn a development that could emerge as a game changer in entry-level motorcycle segment, Bajaj has hinted at the possibility of a CNG powered bike. The suggestion was provided by Rajiv Bajaj, Managing Director of Bajaj Auto Ltd. However, such decisions are likely to require the government’s stamp of approval. In case the idea gets the green signal, Bajaj will have the first-mover advantage in CNG motorcycle segment.Bajaj CNG motorcycles – key benefitsRajiv’s suggestion for CNG bikes comes at a time when there has been a major push towards using cleaner and greener fuels. While cars can choose from petrol, CNG, electric, hybrid, plug-in-hybrid, fuel cell, etc., the choices for two-wheelers are limited to petrol and electric. CNG can work as a good option, as it is cheaper in comparison to petrol.Moreover, CNG is less polluting than petrol and ethanol-mix petrol. The latter has issues related to corrosion, which may necessitate the use of special components in the powertrain. Such issues and related costs can be avoided with CNG powered bikes. Rajiv Bajaj has stated that CNG bikes will be cheaper to buy and reduce running costs.A CNG bike seems doable, as we have already seen Activa scooters fitted with CNG kits. Now, if CNG bikes are factory-made directly by an OEM, users can expect better results in terms of price, performance, mileage, durability and safety. Provided that the project gets the necessary approvals, Bajaj will be introducing CNG option for its 100cc – 125cc bikes.CNG bikes to boost salesCNG bikes can help boost sales in entry-level commuter segment. Growth in this space appears to have plateaued, as people are shifting to EVs or higher capacity bikes. Bajaj itself registered sales of 20,000 units of its Chetak electric scooter at the end of June 2023. But that is just around 2% of the company’s total sales in that period. Bajaj expects the EV contribution to increase to around 3-4 percent by end of this year.In ICE segment, around 70% of the company’s sales come from above 125cc bikes. This is why Bajaj has stepped up focus in this space. As part of that plan, the Pulsar 250 twins were launched in 2021. Bajaj has also updated the entire Pulsar range. Bajaj has now hinted at the biggest Pulsar ever, which could be a 400cc bike. Rajiv Bajaj has said there will be 6 new Pulsar launches this year.CNG powered bikes could be a major disruptor. These can attract an entirely new segment of users. For example, folks who may be relying on public transport. CNG bikes could also work for commercial applications. As CNG is far less polluting, there shouldn’t be an issue in having more of these bikes on the streets. The only concerns could be about the safety of these bikes. OEMs will need to design more robust systems that can comply with mandated safety norms.Source More

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      Biggest Pulsar Launch This Year, Says Rajiv Bajaj – Pulsar RS400, NS400?

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      Bajaj Pulsar 400 RenderAs of now, Bajaj Auto sell Pulsar branded motorcycles ranging between 125cc and 250cc in their engine displacementBajaj Auto MD, Rajiv Bajaj, has promised six new Pulsar motorcycle launches by the end of this financial year. Six new Pulsar motorcycles in itself, is a big deal for the brand. However, there is one Pulsar that could prove more prominent than the others. Rajiv Bajaj hinted at “biggest ever Pulsar” which might very well pack a 400cc engine.400cc Pulsar In The Works?Pulsar brand is one of the most popular among motorcycle enthusiasts in India and many markets across the world. As of now, Bajaj has launched Pulsar motorcycles ranging between 125cc and 250cc. At the lower tier, we have Pulsar 125 and Pulsar NS 125 and we have Pulsar RS200 and more recent Pulsar N250 and Pulsar F250 at the top tier.Bajaj Pulsar NS400 RenderAs revealed by Bajaj MD Rajiv Bajaj, we are getting “biggest ever Pulsar” among six new upcoming vehicles under Pulsar brand. Bajaj Auto intends to launch these by the end of this financial year. Mr Bajaj’s “biggest ever Pulsar” remark is highly likely to mean biggest Pulsar ever with respect to engine displacement, and not biggest Pulsar ever, in terms of size and dimensions.Going by that logic, Bajaj could launch a new Pulsar having an engine displacing more than 250cc. Considering Bajaj has already shared powertrain architectures with KTM, this new upcoming “biggest ever Pulsar” might share its powertrains with Triumph Speed 400 and KTM 390.[embedded content]The company currently sell Dominar 400 which is the biggest Bajaj yet. Dominar 400 shares its powertrain with previous-gen KTM 390 range. So, there is a good probability of this being a fully-faired version of Dominar 400, marketed under Pulsar brand as well. Another probability could be RS200 or NS200’s design and chassis, with a bigger engine.What does Rajiv Bajaj say about “biggest ever Pulsar”?In a recent interview, Bajaj Auto MD, Rajiv Bajaj, revealed there will be six new Pulsars by the end of this financial year. He promised that they have a fantastic product to offer Indian motorcycling enthusiasts. He intends to launch this motorcycle within this financial year so they get a full understanding of its growth and profitability by next year.In the same interview, Mr Bajaj mentioned the company is actively exploring more opportunities in premium motorcycle segment. This is a segment that goes beyond Rs. 1.7 lakh in value and has an engine that is generally beyond 200cc. This is where Bajaj’s current Pulsar RS 200, Dominar range fall, along with partner products from KTM, Husqvarna and Triumph.That said, prospect of a 400cc Pulsar at around Rs. 2 lakh (ex-sh) is very enticing. It could be equipped with a 399cc single-cylinder engine co-developed Triumph, marketed under Pulsar brand. USD telescopic front forks, dual-channel ABS, close to 40 bhp of power, 35 Nm of torque, slipper clutch, ride-by-wire throttle, full LED headlights might be its highlights. Launch is likely to happen in the coming months.Source, Render More

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      TVS Apache RR 200 Fully Faired Launch Likely – Karizma, Pulsar RS200 Rival

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      TVS ApacheWith a booming young population, a lot more enthusiasts will be looking to try entry-level faired bikesAlthough not a primary volume generator, the entry-level faired motorcycle segment does attract a niche segment of buyers. Folks with a fascination for the racetrack and speed will surely be interested in trying out new products in this space. Most recent offering is all-new Hero Karizma XMR 210 that has been launched at a starting price of Rs 1.73 lakh. Other options in this space include Pulsar RS200 and KTM RC200.TVS Apache RR200 fully faired bike featuresWith Hero and Bajaj already here, TVS also seems to have sensed an opportunity. It is possible that TVS can launch a rival product in the form of Apache RR200. There appears to be a strong hint, based on the company’s social media conversations.TVS Apache RR 200 is a possibilityTVS already has the 200cc Apache RTR 200 4V. The same platform can be used for Apache RR200. Some of the faired design elements can be borrowed from RR310. With this approach, Apache RR200 can make it to the streets in the shortest possible time. It is probable that TVS may have already started working on the RR200.While there is no straightforward confirmation, TVS twitter handle says that RR200 can be a possibility. TVS recently launched its new X electric scooter at a starting price of Rs 2.5 lakh. They also launcehd a street bike, likely to be RTR 310. In one of the conversations on Twitter, a user asked about the likelihood of RR200 and RR250. TVS has replied saying that it could be a possibility.TVS Apache 310With launch of Hero Karizma 210, the prospects of a rival TVS product become even more relevant. TVS has nothing to lose, as it already has the platform and design to work with. With the company’s expertise and resources, a fully-faired Apache RR200 can be created quite quickly. Market response to Karizma 210 could also dictate TVS decisions with respect to Apache RR200.TVS Apache engine, specsAssuming RR200 makes it to production stage, it could be powered by the 197.75cc engine that does duty on Apache RTR 200 4V. The oil-cooled engine generates 20.82 PS of max power and 17.25 Nm of peak torque in Sport mode. In Urban and Rain mode, the numbers drop to 17.32 PS and 16.51 Nm. The engine is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. TVS can probably bump up the numbers to make them comparable to that of Karizma 210. The latter churns out 25.5 PS and 20.4 Nm. Karizma has a 6-speed gearbox.Apache RR210 can get telescopic forks at front and a monoshock suspension at rear. The bike will have disc brakes at both ends, integrated with dual-channel ABS. TVS could launch RR200 at a competitive price point. Karizma XMR and Bajaj RS200 are almost equally priced at Rs 1,72,900 and Rs 1,72,358, respectively. More

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      2023 Honda CB200X Launched At Rs. 1.47 Lakh – 3 Colours

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      2023 Honda CB200X LaunchedThe 184.4cc single-cylinder engine now meets BS6 P2 emission standards and brings OBD-II diagnostics suite as wellAfter updating the CB300F with a killer price revision strategy, Honda 2W India has launched 2023 CB200X at Rs. 1.47 lakh (ex-sh). This is the newest update to CB200X that brings it in line with other Honda motorcycles in terms of emission standards. The updated 184.4cc engine is now BS6 P2 compliant and sports OBD II compatibility. Colour options include Decent Blue Metallic (new), Pearl Nightstar Black & Sports Red.2023 Honda CB200X – ADV-styled Hornet 2.0It is an ADV-styled commuter that gets its design inspiration from CB500X ADV. Looks are one of the biggest strengths of this motorcycle and even feels a lot more premium when compared to other motorcycles of this engine class.The sharp fairing, knuckle guard-mounted LED turn indicators, full LED headlights and gold-finished USD telescopic front forks lend it a rich and premium appeal. Even though 2023 Honda Cb200X shares engine and platform with Hornet 2.0, the faux ADV packs in extensive upgrades that lend it a unique character of its own.The handlebar on CB200X is more upright than Hornet 2.0’s and gives a more relaxed rider’s triangle. There is an impressive windshield mounted on the bikini fairing that should provide decent protection from wind blasts at higher speeds. Knuckle guards come in handy as well. Hornet 2.0 misses out on these attributes.2023 Honda CB200X SpecsWhat does it pack?Honda calls CB200X an Urban Explorer, which is befitting. As opposed to its predecessor, 2023 Honda CB200X packs all-new graphics that look bolder than before. Attributes like an agile diamond frame along with USD telescopic front forks and rear mono-shock suspension setup lend impressive handling characteristics.This update mainly revolves around the engine, which is now OBD-II compliant for real-time diagnostics as part of BS6 P2 emission norms. If there is a malfunction detected, a warning light flashes, notifying the rider. This engine generates around 17 bhp of peak power at 8,500 RPM and 15.9 Nm of peak torque at 6,000 RPM mated to a 5-speed gearbox.Honda offers petal disc setup at the front and back along with the safety net of single-channel ABS. Slip and assist clutch ensures minimum effort while clutch action and reduces wheel hopping when downshifting. The fully digital instrument cluster looks modern and packs adjustable brightness too. No Bluetooth, though.2023 Honda CB200X FeaturesThe new Honda CB200X would have benefitted with a price cut as we saw with CB300F. However, that isn’t the case and Honda has priced it at Rs. 1.47 lakh (ex-sh). 2023 Honda CB200X is more expensive than Hero Xpulse 200 4V as well, which is a true-blue off-road machine with more performance.Words from the manufacturerCommenting on the launch of the new CB200X, Mr. Tsutsumu Otani, Managing Director, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “Today marks a significant milestone as we launch the 2023 CB200X inspired by Honda’s legendary CB legacy. Since its launch in 2021, CB200X has received tremendous response in the market and is a perfect riding companion for the customer’s daily commutes as well as short weekend getaways beyond the cityscapes.”Introducing HMSI’s latest offering, Mr. Yogesh Mathur, Director, Sales and Marketing, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “We are pleased to introduce the 2023 CB200X with an OBD2 compliant engine, stylish graphics and a new assist & slipper clutch. Marking a steady evolution in the 180-200cc motorcycle segment, the CB200X urban explorer is inspired by the dreams of the new-age customers and their passion for motorcycle riding who want to Explore Life with Every Ride!” More

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      New Honda i-M, i-M1 e Electric Scooter Names Trademarked In India

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      Image for illustration purpose onlyThe names i-M and i-M1 e are Honda’s most recent trademarks and could evolve into two new electric scooters for IndiaIndian electric 2W envelope is mostly dominated by startup brands. More and more mainstream bike makers are now entering this space. We have TVS and Hero MotoCorp have already arrived. However, Japanese bike makers have yet to make their presence known in this space. Will Honda break the ice with ‘i-M’ and ‘i-M1 e’ electric scooters?Honda Files Trademarks For i-M and i-M1 eThere have been multiple speculations about Honda launching a new electric scooter in India. In fact, Honda has confirmed two different e-scooters for India, slated to launch in 2024. Even though Honda is highly likely to launch them under the ‘Activa’ umbrella, two new trademarks have been filed by the company – i-M and i-M1 e.New Honda i-M, i-M1 e Electric ScooterThese could very well be Honda’s next electric scooters. In the automotive world, the letter ‘i’ is usually associated with intelligent or innovative vehicles. Honda’s newest trademarks could be the embodiment of the brand’s innovation as these will be the first set of e-scooters from Honda in India.Both i-M and i-M1 e trademarks have been filed on 13/6/2023 and the status reads ‘Formalities check pass’. Honda probably intends to use i-M1 and i-M1 e trademarks on its upcoming electric vehicles, irrespective of the number of wheels, as seen in the description.New Honda i-M, i-M1 e Electric ScooterWhat to expect?Honda 2W India might develop an all-new platform for these electric scooters, codenamed Platform E. This platform is said to be compatible with both fixed battery and swappable battery architectures. Hence, one of the two scooters will sport a fixed battery setup, while the other will get a swappable battery kit.There is a probability of the fixed battery scooter taking the PV route, while the swappable battery model takes CV route for commercial applications. Either way, Honda will make sure there is enough performance and range on tap, which is on par with what rivals have to offer in their respective segments.A high level of localisation will be a priority to keep costs in check. Given that it is from Honda, there is a level of reliability and safety associated with these upcoming products too. Honda Motorcycles and Scooters India is currently spawning a new manufacturing facility in Narasapura, Karnataka, to accommodate future 2W production demands.Price point will be interesting as Honda is likely to position them mostly for first-time buyers. These might prove to be good alternatives for affordable ICE scooters. Launch could happen in January 2024, as confirmed by CEO. Considering how many trademarks Honda files in India and how many of them turn out into real product launches, i-M and i-M1 e names may just be intellectual property protecting mechanisms as well. More

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      Ducati Single Cylinder Motorcycle Spied Testing – KTM rival

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      Ducati single cylinder motorcycleDucati single cylinder motorcycle features Hypermotard 950’s overall design and aesthetics – With a smaller engineThe Italian marque, Ducati, has been one of the pinnacles in sensational and premium motorcycles. From the past couple of decades, Ducati has produced a multitude of multi-cylinder engine motorcycles. However, recent revelations suggest Ducati is developing a single-cylinder powered Hypermotard that could potentially take on the likes of KTM 690 SMC R.Ducati Single Cylinder Motorcycle – Hypermotard 650?Test mule was spotted abroad and featured a Ducati Hypermotord-like bike in camouflage. A keen look reveals that there is some size deficit in the engine department, while the motorcycle around it looks huge. At first glance, it looks like this test mule has the same chassis and body as the bigger Hypermotard 950, testing a new single-cylinder engine.This might be true as well because similarities in design and size with bigger Hypermotard are uncanny. However, there are changes that might be categorised as downgrades when compared to full-fat Hypermotard 950. Headlights, rear subframe, USD telescopic front forks, and rear mono-shock placement look similar.These are the elements that give it a typical Hypermotard look. On closer inspection, this particular test mule carries certain downgrades. These are a single disc setup at the front, skinnier tyres, a double-sided swingarm as opposed to single-sided on Hypermotard and a few elements more. Front beak looks thinner, but longer.Ducati Hypermotard 650 engine bayRadiator’s positioning and the cowl around it look similar to that of Hypermotard 950. Looking at the engine bay, it generally feels a lot empty on this test mule. We feel like this engine bay was designed to accommodate a much bigger engine. Like the twin-cylinder 937cc unit on Hypermotard 950.Same 659cc single-cylinder homologated by NHTSA in USA?When the recent spy shots of a single-cylinder Ducati motorcycle went viral, it sheds light on a single-cylinder powered motorcycle that Ducati registered with NHTSA. According to that registration, this single-cylinder engine will be a 659cc unit and has a 4V head. It seems to have a SOHC setup and a liquid-cooling jacket. Power may be around 75 bhp.This engine looks to the a stressed unit in the frame. Rear swingarm seems to be directly connected to the engine too. These are weight-saving measures and Ducati’s upcoming single-cylinder bike could sport impressive kerb weight numbers. Ducati might be eyeing KTM 690 SMC R with this upcoming Hypermotard 650 (name not confirmed).Ducati Hypermotard stylingConsidering that this is the first-ever sighting of this motorcycle, launch could be further in the future. India launch is less likely, though. But not completely impossible. When launched, Ducati Hypermotard 650 will mark the return of iconic Italian marque to single-cylinder space. Last known single-cylinder Ducati was race-only Supermano in 1993.Source More

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      Ultraviolette Opposes X440 Name Trademark By Hero MotoCorp

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      Harley-Davidson X 440 trademark tussle with UltravioletteThe ‘X44’ trademark by Ultraviolette Automotive was filed around two months prior to Harley-Davidson X 440 trademark filingHero MotoCorp partnered up with iconic American motorcycling giant Harley-Davidson and launched X 440. There is good reception to the bike, clocking over 25,000 bookings within weeks of launch. However, X 440 seems to have encountered a speed bump already in the form of a trademark tussle with Ultraviolette Automotive.Ultraviolette Opposes X440 Name TrademarkAccording to a recent report, Ultraviolette Automotive has raised a formal opposition against X 440 name trademark filed by Hero MotoCorp. Ultraviolette Automotive seems to be concerned over the name X 440 overlapping with one of its own name trademarks – X44.According to the report, people in the know-how have revealed that Ultraviolette has filed an opposition at the patent office against the wordmark ‘X 440’ that Hero MotoCorp used with their maiden product in partnership with Harley-Davidson. Where Ultraviolette is concerned, their opposition seems to have worked.If we take a look at Hero MotoCorp-owned X 440 trademark file, status now says ‘Opposed’. Whereas Ultraviolette’s X44 trademark file status says ‘Accepted & Advertised’. Trademark files reveal that Ultraviolette Automotive filed X44 trademark application on 27/9/22 and Hero MotoCorp filed X 440 trademark 8/11/2022.Hero MotoCorp X 440 trademark opposedWhat happens if Ultraviolette wins this legal battle?So, Ultraviolette’s trademark application is around two months older than Hero’s. If this legal tussle ends in Ultraviolette’s favour, Hero MotoCorp could lose the rights to X 440 name. Deliveries for Harley-Davidson X440 are around October 2023. Will deliveries of X 440 commence, if legalities escalate to that point by October? Only time will tell.There is a possibility of Harley-Davidson X 440 retaining its rights over X 440 word mark. This is because there is a pronounced space between the character X and 440, which Ultraviolette’s X44 trademark lacks. Also, an argument can be made by Hero regarding the fact that they already have the product on sale, whereas Ultraviolette may or may not launch a product with its trademark.Who will break the stalemate?Neither company has made any official remarks regarding this issue. It is clear that Ultraviolette had intentions of carving out a new affordable motorcycle below its F77 with the name X44 (44 is lower in value as opposed to 77). Since Ultraviolette filed its trademark before Hero MotoCorp, it might have an upper hand.Ultraviolette X44 trademarkThis incident also sheds light on Hero MotoCorp’s previous trademark tussle with Hero Electric. That was ruled in favour of Hero Electric and the issue mainly revolved around the usage of word ‘Hero’ with Hero MotoCorp’s new EV lineup. Hence ‘Vida’ brand was created.Source More