More stories

  • in

    Triumph-Bajaj Adventure Motorcycle Render – RE Himalayan 450 Rival

    Triumph-Bajaj will be launching a range of mid-size capacity motorcycles – These could be unveiled later this year in November at EICMATriumph-Bajaj Adventure Motorcycle RenderPopularized by Royal Enfield, the 350cc space has witnessed multiple launches from the likes of Honda, Jawa and Yezdi. Joining this club soon will be two new motorcycles from Triumph-Bajaj. There will be a street roadster and its scrambler version, which will rival Royal Enfield Meteor 350 and Yezdi Scrambler / Hunter 350, respectively.Triumph-Bajaj Adventure Motorcycle RenderBoth these versions have been spied in near-production ready guise. Considering that adventure motorcycles are in demand, it is likely that the platform would spawn into an ADV motorcycle in the future. Combining the bits from the existing scrambler and roadster spy shots, rendering artist Pratyush Rout gives us a glimpse as to what could be Triumph-Bajaj adventure motorcycle.Triumph-Bajaj Adventure Motorcycle RenderJust like Bajaj-KTM partnership, Triumph new motorcycles will be manufactured by Bajaj. Design and development of these new motorcycles has been undertaken by Triumph’s UK R&D division. While the exact capacity of these bikes is not known, dimensions of the engine and exhaust suggest the likelihood of something close to 350cc-450cc. In an earlier statement, Triumph had said that its new single-cylinder bikes for India will be positioned in 250cc – 650cc range.Triumph Bajaj motorcycle featuresRetro theme is evident, with features such as round headlamp and rear view mirrors and teardrop-shaped fuel tank. Test mules have been spotted with a circular instrument dial, integrated with a squarish section towards the right. It is likely to be a semi-digital instrument console that will complement the bike’s retro styling.Triumph-Bajaj Adventure Motorcycle RenderEngine section is tightly packed and body panelling is bare minimum, which ensures a sinewy profile for the motorcycle. Other key features include single-piece seat, blacked-out engine and exhaust, crash guard, thick grab rail, upswept exhaust and sleek tail section. Riding ergonomics will be fairly comfortable, suitable for both city commutes and highway cruising.While the platform will be the same, scrambler version will be distinguishable with features such as windscreen and knuckle guards. Exhaust design, wheel size and choice of rubber could also be different for the scrambler. There are unlikely to be any engine tweaks for the scrambler version.Which Engine Will Power The Triumph Bajaj Mid-Size MotorcyclesAs compared to rivals in 350cc segment, Triumph-Bajaj motorcycles will have USD front forks. At rear, the bikes will have monoshock suspension. Test mules appear to be riding on 17-inch wheels at both ends, shod with relatively wider tyre at rear. Braking duties are performed by disc brakes at both ends. Dual-channel ABS will be offered as standard. Connectivity features are likely for Triumph-Bajaj sub-500cc motorcycles.Triumph-Bajaj Adventure Motorcycle RenderWhile Triumph-Bajaj new bikes seem to have potential, these are unlikely to pose any major threat to Royal Enfield. Pricing is a key factor that will determine sales volumes of these motorcycles. As of now, it’s difficult for most players to match the aggressive pricing of Royal Enfield. Triumph-Bajaj new sub-500cc motorcycles are expected to be launched at around Rs 2 lakh.In future, another challenger to Royal Enfield could come in the form of Vincent Motorcycles. The trademark for this name was recently acquired by Bajaj. Apart from Indian market, Vincent motorcycles could also be targeted at global markets, especially Europe.Disclaimer – Design renders presented in this blog are solely for illustrative purposes and have not been commissioned, approved, or endorsed by the manufacturer. Designs presented here may not reflect the final product or the manufacturer’s intentions. The renders are provided as conceptual designs or artistic interpretations only, and their accuracy or feasibility cannot be guaranteed. More

  • in

    Honda Shine 100cc Launch Price Rs 65k – Cheaper Than Hero Splendor

    Reliability, agility, high mileage, low-maintenance and affordability are USPs that Honda’s new 100cc Shine will need to take on Hero Splendor2023 Honda Shine 100cc LaunchedAs things stand now, Hero MotoCorp doesn’t have an answer to Activa. Honda faces a similar predicament with 100cc Splendor. While Hero’s plans in this context have not been revealed, Honda has decided to challenge Splendor with an entirely new 100cc bike. Called Honda Shine 100, this new motorcycle has now been launched in India at a starting price of Rs 64,900, ex-sh. Bookings open from today. Production will start from next month, while deliveries will start from May 2023.Honda Shine 100 – Features, Price, Mileage & Specs100cc motorcycle segment commands 33% market share of the total motorcycle sales in India. A major chunk of this 33% is eaten by Hero MotoCorp, thanks to their Splendor range of motorcycles. Monthly sales of Splendor are about 2.5 lakh units. Honda has not been present in this segment, thereby not competing in 1/3rd of the motorcycle market. With the launch of Shine 100, Honda aims at taking on the Splendor.2023 Honda Shine 100cc LaunchedSplendor 100cc is Hero’s top selling product and the primary volume generator. If Honda’s new 100cc Shine can grab even 15-20% market share in entry-level commuter segment, the company should be able to emerge as the largest two-wheeler manufacturer in the country in quantitative terms. Honda is relying on the Shine branding for their new 100cc motorcycle. CB Shine 125 is Honda’s top selling motorcycle currently, and also the market leader in 125cc segment.Some of the key focus areas for Honda’s new Shine 100cc commuter bike will be mileage and affordability. Among the key reasons why Splendor is preferred is its reliability, easy manoeuvrability, peppy performance and high mileage. Most Splendor users report around 65+ km mileage for the bike. Honda’s reliability is sort of unquestionable, so that aspect is already sorted out. Honda is claiming to offer best in class mileage with new Shine 1000cc.2023 Honda Shine 100cc LaunchedHonda’s Shine 100cc bike is among the cheapest in its class. Splendor was quite affordable once, but prices have increased in recent years. This has prompted buyers to explore other options. Splendor prices start from Rs 72,000 (ex-sh, Delhi). Honda has launched Shine 100 at a more affordable price point of Rs 64,900, ex-sh. – all while matching Splendor’s key USPs, it could trigger a major churn in entry-level commuter segment.Honda Shine 100: The Best Commuter Bike in India?Honda Shine 100 gets 5 colour options (Black with Red Stripes, Black with Blue Stripes, Black with Green Stripes, Black with Gold Stripes and Black with Grey Stripes). The appealing front cowl, all black alloy wheels, practical aluminum grab rail, bold tail lamp and sleek distinguished muffler compliment smooth style of the motorcycle. HMSI is also offering a special 6-year warranty package (3 years standard + 3 years optional extended warranty) on Shine 100.Honda Shine 100Built on an all new light-weight durable diamond frame, the new Honda Shine 100 gets long seat measuring 677 mm and a seat ht of 786 mm. Turning radius is just 1.9 meter. Ground clearance is 168mm while wheelbase is 1245mm. With its new 100cc Shine, Honda is expected to focus more on rural markets. While offering best-in-segment mileage, the bike could also have larger proportions as compared to Splendor. These are factors that have significant influence on customer purchase decisions in rural markets.Honda has claimed that the new Shine 100cc motorcycle delivers best in segment performance as well as mileage. The new 100cc engine comes with Fuel Injection as well as Solenoid, which makes starting the bike very smooth in any weather condition. It prevents engine start while the side stand is engaged enabling a convenient and carefree ride. Making every ride on the Shine 100 comfortable and convenient, is the Combi-Brake System (CBS) with Equalizer.2023 Honda Shine 100cc LaunchedPerformance numbers of Honda’s Shine 100cc are close to that of its primary rival Splendor Plus. Honda Shine 100 is powered by a 99.7cc, air cooled, single cylinder motor that churns out 7.6 hp and 8.05 Nm torque while rival Splendor delivers 8 bhp of max power and 8.05 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 4-speed constant mesh gearbox. Apart from Splendor, Honda’s new 100cc bike will also take on HF Deluxe, HF 100 and Bajaj Platina 100. More

  • in

    Why Ola Electric’s Voluntary Recall Is a Step in the Right Direction

    Ola Electric Recalls Ola S1 Scooter Front Suspension System – Commitment to Customer Safety
    Ola Electric Scooter Suspension Recall
    Ola Electric has today announced a voluntary recall of its Ola S1 electric scooter front suspension system. This recall announcement was much awaited, and often suggested by customers. It comes after a number of incidents where the front suspension broke.
    Upgrading Your Ola S1’s Front Suspension System: What You Need to Know
    The company has assured its customers that all components of the front fork arm have been thoroughly tested under extreme conditions and engineered for safety. The front fork design has been updated in the 2023 Ola scooters, further enhancing durability and strength.
    Ola Electric Scooter Suspension Recall
    For customers who have concerns over their scooter’s front suspension system, Ola Electric is offering a free upgrade. Customers can book an appointment for the voluntary recall procedure at an Ola Experience Centre or Service Centre starting March 22. Ola Electric will soon outline the booking appointment process.
    If you’re curious about the Ola S1’s front suspension system, here’s what you need to know. The front suspension system is responsible for absorbing bumps and jolts while riding. It’s made up of several components, including the front fork, shock absorbers, and other scooter parts. Front fork is a crucial component that connects the front wheel to the scooter’s body and helps support the rider’s weight. If it breaks when being ridden, it poses serious danger.
    Is Your Ola S1 Scooter Affected by the Voluntary Recall?
    As per Ola Electric, the front suspension system of the Ola S1 electric scooter has been designed to provide optimal performance and reliability. The scooter’s front fork suspension has been engineered to work with the scooter’s weight and to handle typical loads. The front fork suspension system has been tested at much higher loads than what is typically expected during normal use.
    However, there’s no denying that multiple Ola S1 electric scooter owners have been posting photos of their broken scooters. Different situations and reasons. Same outcome. If you’re looking to upgrade the front suspension system of your Ola S1, you can get in touch with the company for more information.
    Ola Electric’s Transparent Communication with Customers.
    Seeing Ola Electric’s monthly sales, there’s no doubt that their scooters are selling like hotcakes. Providing riders with a smooth and comfortable ride as is evident from numerous customer testaments. With the free upgrade/voluntary recall option available, Ola Electric is demonstrating its commitment to ensuring the safety and satisfaction of its customers. More

  • in

    New Bajaj Pulsar NS160, NS200 Launch Price Rs 1.35 L, Rs 1.47 L

    Updated Pulsar NS range improves competencies against rivals and allows enthusiasts to unlock new possibilitiesNew Bajaj Pulsar NS160, NS200 Launch Price. Image – Powerdrift
    One of the popular Pulsar motorcycles, the NS range now comes with USD forks and dual-channel ABS. It also gets lighter rims and a semi digital console with gear position indicator and DTE. The updated units have started arriving at dealerships. With the new features, prices have also been hiked.
    2023 Bajaj Pulsar NS160 and NS200 Prices
    Before the latest upgrade, NS160 was priced at Rs 1.25 lakh, whereas NS200 was available at Rs 1.41 lakh. Now, with these new upgrades, NS160 is priced at Rs 1.35 lakh while the NS200 is priced at Rs 1.41 lakh, ex-sh. Plus, the engines have been updated to comply with the stricter BS6 Phase II emission norms. Apart from the new equipment, there are no other major updates to either bike.
    2023 Bajaj Pulsar NS200
    New Pulsar NS200 will target primary rival TVS Apache RTR 200 4V that has conventional telescopic front forks. However, RTR 200 4V has options of both single and dual-channel ABS. Another rival is Honda Hornet 2.0 that has USD forks, but lacks dual-channel ABS. It is apparent that updated Bajaj Pulsar NS200 now comes across as a more value-for-money proposition.
    Updated Pulsar NS160 will have similar advantages against rivals like TVS Apache RTR 160 4V and Hero Xtreme 160R. However, there’s scope for more improvements in areas such as connectivity. While TVS was among the first to introduce a dedicated connectivity platform for its smaller capacity bikes, Hero MotoCorp is following the same strategy. Updated Pulsar NS motorcycles are equipped with a semi-digital instrument console.
    2023 Bajaj Pulsar NS160
    After introduction of USD forks and dual-channel ABS, users can expect improved ride dynamics with Pulsar NS200 and NS160. Enthusiasts can achieve higher speeds without worrying about things like the bike skidding or not coming to a halt within the targeted distance. The benefits will be available across city streets as well as highways.
    Bajaj already offers USD forks with its NS motorcycles in Brazil. NS200 has 33mm USD, whereas NS160 has 31mm USD forks. The same configuration is used for India. Apart from the enhanced muscular profile made possible with the USD forks, there are no other major cosmetic changes. Only some of the graphics have been updated with new colour combinations.
    Updated Pulsar NS range performance
    While ride dynamics have been improved with USD forks and dual-channel ABS, the engines are the same as earlier. Power and torque output is the same, even after compliance with BS6 Phase II emission norms.
    Bajaj Pulsar NS200 is powered by a 199.5cc, liquid cooled, SOHC 4-valve engine that churns out 24.5 PS of max power and 18.74 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. The smaller sibling NS160 has a 160.3 cc motor that makes 17.2 PS and 14.6 Nm. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox.

    Source More

  • in

    Honda Scooters, Motorcycles Detachable Airbag – New Patent Filed

    There are two different systems as seen with Honda patented motorcycle airbags – One deploying from the front, and other from the backImage for illustration purpose
    For a long time, airbags have been associated with vehicles with more than two wheels. They deploy during a crash and protect occupants from colliding with interiors. In case of an accident, the driver collides with the steering wheel, cracking his head or ribs.
    For a long time, cars are considered safer than motorcycles as they are concealed and pose a structure around to isolate them from potential hazards from the outside. Motorcycles are not like that as the helmet is the rider’s only best friend where safety is concerned. Honda wants to change that by patenting airbags for scooters and motorcycles.
    Honda is working on new airbag for motorcycles / scooters – that will deploy during crash, detach from the vehicle and stay with the rider.
    Honda Working On Airbags For Motorcycles, Scooters
    Is this the first time that airbags are part of motorcycles or scooters? No. We have seen airbags being offered as part of motorcycles before. Coincidentally, it was on a Honda Goldwing tourer. Honda offered airbags on Goldwing for as long as 2006. The associated costs around it and limited impact of it on rider’s safety must be reasons why it never came into mainstream 2W vehicles.
    Honda’s recent patents show airbags offered with both motorcycles and scooters. With expertise to bank on, Honda seems to have come up with a new breakthrough. For starters, the new patents show detachable airbags that when deployed, cover not just the rider’s chest, but his back along with sides of their torso as well.
    Honda Motorcycle Airbag – This patent shows the airbag getting deployed from in front of the rider’s legs and then goes on to wrap around the torso.
    Airbags On 2W
    Just like airbags on cars and trucks, this airbag system also requires a sensor to detect a crash, a detonator, and a bag where gases can expand. Reportedly, Honda’s new airbag system detaches from source after deployment and is sealed off using heat applications to retain expanded gases in the bag as is.
    Honda Motorcycle Airbag Patent – Shows how the airbag will deploy
    This means that the airbag ECU, module, sensor and actual bag are mounted on the vehicle. It will then detach once deployed, wrapping its rider. There seems to be a check valve too, which Honda is using to control the rate of inflation of gases. From the patents, we can see that there are two different designs Honda is working on right now.
    One is demonstrated on a street-naked motorcycle where the airbag is mounted at the vehicle’s front. And the other is demonstrated on a scooter where an airbag is placed behind the rider and integrated into the seat. These look to be very rough around the edges as of now and are not likely to see the light of day anytime soon.
    Honda Scooter Airbag – Deploys from behind the rider and surrounds the torso
    Questions On Safety
    On a tourer like Honda Goldwing, one would sit upright and an airbag for their torso and head is very logical. But as demonstrated by Honda in their patents, is it viable for a street bike? What if a rider is ducking to get a sportier position, will they survive a whiplash caused by an inflating airbag?
    Honda Scooter Airbag deploying from behind the rider
    Also, on a system demonstrated on a scooter behind the rider’s back, there are chances of airbag dislocating thighs from the pelvis of its pillion. If a rider is sitting behind a favourable spot, they can suffer injuries from a dislocated spine as well. There are jackets and helmets with gyro-sensors that detect a fall and deploy airbags. Those seem to be a better bet until new breakthroughs happen.
    Source More

  • in

    Harley Davidson X350 Exhaust Note – 350cc Engine Revving Sound

    The V-twin rumble and smooth and vibe-free drive of a belt drive will surely be missed with upcoming Harley-Davidson X350Harley Davidson X350 – 350cc Exhaust Sound
    For a long time, Harley-Davidson has had its supremacy in big-capacity baggers, choppers and cruisers. The company is aiming to diversify its portfolio and extend its reach to an audience preferring to buy something sporty and less expensive. Partnerships with key OEMs set in strategically logical markets is how Harley Davidson intends to achieve that.
    Harley Davidson X350 Exhaust Note – The New Rumble In Town
    In comes, X350 and X500 motorcycles developed with QJMotor. In effect, these new motorcycles will be manufactured in China by QJ and shipped worldwide. Among the two, only X350 has been launched with a starting price of Yuan 33,388, turns out to be around Rs. 3.93 lakh. First units have been reaching dealerships as we speak. Below is one of the first videos giving us an audio byte of the new Harley X350 exhaust note as well as engine revving sound.
    [embedded content]
    In an attempt to create inexpensive and scalable motorcycles, Harley-Davidson seems to have lost some of its characteristics with X350. We’re talking about the rumble of a V-Twin motor and smoothness of belt drives, both of which are expected from Harley-Davidson. New motorcycles produced with QJ get parallel twin motors with chain drive.
    We’re not yet sure why Harley-Davidson chose the parallel twin with X350 instead of a V-Twin manufactured by QJ, that is offered with QJ300 or Keeway Benda V302. This way, Harley could have offered a V-twin and belt drive as well, reducing maintenance and vibrations. What we get instead, is a 353cc parallel twin motor with 34 bhp.
    Harley Davidson X350 Exhaust Note
    Many of the design elements on Harley-Davidson X350 seem to be inspired by XR1200. Especially at the rear subframe, giving out 90s Japanese bike vibes. Contrasting Orange painted guards at the front and rear offer protection and a lot of funk, while round headlights and ORVMs radiate classic bike feel.
    Other elements include LED headlights, a round semi-digital speedo, a flat-ish handlebar and more. Componentry includes front USD forks single-sided rear mono-shock suspension reminding us of Kawasaki ER6N, alloy wheels, dual petal discs at front and a single disc at the rear and liquid-cooling flanked by beefy tank shrouds.
    Harley Davidson X350 – Size And Features
    Dimensionally, it is 2110 mm long, 785 mm wide, 1110 mm tall and has a wheelbase of 1410 mm. Kerb weight is pegged at 195 kg, while gross weight is 255 kg. Front tyre is a 120/70Z R17, while rear is a wide 160/60Z R17 rubber. The underbelly exhaust looks neat as well. ABS is standard.
    The company is likely to push this motorcycle very aggressively. Attractive EMI plans and with decent down payment of 8,888 Yuan (Rs 1 lakh), reflect the same. With aggressive pricing like this, we expect Harley-Davidson to soon reach India to rival the domination of Royal Enfield in middle-weight space. India launch is not yet announced, but given the partnership with Hero MotorCorp, Harley-Davidson might use the latter’s extensive dealer network to offer X350 and X500 in India. More

  • in

    2023 Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS USD Forks Walkaround – Arrives At Dealer Showroom

    Bajaj Auto has upgraded their Pulsar NS range of motorcycles with USD forks in the front – First batch has arrived at dealer showroom2023 Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS
    Bajaj Pulsar NS lineup has been one of the sportiest offerings in their respective segments. With aggressive styling and presence, they have captivated the Indian market fairly well. Now, Bajaj intends to expand this lineup’s presence by offering USD forks and dual-channel ABS on NS200 as well as NS160. After teasing these two motorcycles on their social media last week, the first batch has started to arrive at dealer showrooms.
    2023 Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS With USD Forks – Walkaround
    Thanks to Rash Gear channel, we now have a first walkaround video. For those who were expecting design changes, are going to be disappointed. As the new 2023 Pulsar NS looks the same as previous models, sans USD front forks.
    2023 Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS
    Speaking of NS200, it is the only one to get a dual channel ABS update as well. Pulsar RS200, which is a faired version of NS200, got dual-channel ABS long back, and it was high time Bajaj offered it with its naked sibling as well.
    With USD front forks, these Pulsars look more muscular than they already did. It almost feels like the Pulsar NS160 and NS200 hit the gym and are now flexing their triceps. With USD forks, the thicker part of the forks is now on top and has a greater surface area to clamp with the frame. This gives better clamping force, making the frame more cohesive.
    2023 Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS – Gear position indicator added
    In Brazil, Bajaj is offering larger 33 mm USD front forks with NS200 and smaller 31 mm USD forks with NS160. We can expect a similar strategy with India-spec models as well. By offering dual-channel ABS on Pulsar NS200 along with USD front forks, Bajaj is taking the fight to TVS Apache RTR 200 4V. Take a look at the Pulsar USD forks walkaround video below.
    [embedded content]
    Specs & Features
    Since it is 2023, we hoped Bajaj would offer some new features with this update. Features like Bluetooth connectivity with smartphone integration and GPS-guided turn-by-turn navigation. Or LEDs instead of halogens, maybe adjustable front suspension (offered on Apache 200 4V) and the likes. But that doesn’t seem to be the case. What we do get is an updated instrument cluster which now shows gear position.
    Pulsar NS160 still retains the 160.3 cc single-cylinder unit as before. Coupled with a 5-speed gearbox, it is capable of developing 17.2 PS of power at 9000 RPM and 14.6 Nm of torque at 7250 RPM. NS200 on the other hand is equipped with a 199.5 cc liquid-cooled engine making 24.13 bhp of power at 9750 RPM and 18.74 Nm of torque at 8000 RPM.
    Pricing for the updated Pulsar NS160 and NS200 are likely to go up by Rs. 5,000 to Rs 10,000. Current versions cost Rs. 1.25 lakh and Rs. 1.4 lakh each respectively. (prices ex-sh). More

  • in

    Ather Grids To Cut Off Electric Scooter Charging At 80% – Here’s Why

    Ather Energy Announces Upgrade to Ather Grids – 80 percent Cut-Off for optimal charge for users
    Ather Electric Scooter
    Ather Energy has recently announced that their Ather Grids will soon be upgraded with an 80 percent cut-off. This will provide optimal charge for users, reduced wait time for others, and fair usage for everyone. While that’s a straightforward message, a tweet from their CEO related to the same caught our attention. ‘Once we disconnect the solenoid, charging cannot continue for safety reasons. You risk arcing and other non savoury things otherwise.’
    Understanding How Solenoids Convert Electrical Energy to Mechanical Energy
    If you own an electric scooter, you may have heard of solenoids and their importance in the charging process. Solenoids are essential electromechanical devices that control the flow of electricity to the battery. They convert electrical energy into mechanical energy and generate a magnetic field when an electric current passes through them.
    Ather Electric Scooter charging via grids – 80% cut off. Hat tip – Coimbatore Ather Owners
    However, if you disconnect while the battery is charging, you risk arcing and other safety hazards. It is, therefore, essential to let the solenoid complete its cycle before disconnecting it to prevent any damage or harm that may occur due to a sudden interruption in the flow of electrical energy.
    Risks of Interrupting the Flow of Electrical Energy to an Electric Scooter Battery
    When a solenoid is charging, it actively draws electrical energy and creates a magnetic field. Disconnecting the solenoid while it is charging can be dangerous as it may cause a sudden interruption in electrical energy flow, leading to an electric arc.
    Solenoids are critical safety features in electric scooter charging. They control the flow of electricity to the battery and prevent electric arcs that can be dangerous and even life-threatening.
    Preventing Electric Arcs During Electric Scooter Charging
    An electric arc is a discharge of electric current that occurs when there is a gap in a circuit. It can cause a flash of light, heat, and even an explosion, resulting in severe burns, equipment damage, and even death. To prevent electric arcs, it is crucial to let the solenoid complete its cycle before disconnecting it. This ensures that the magnetic field has dissipated, and there is no risk of an electric arc occurring.
    The Ather electric scooter is designed with safety in mind and uses technologically advanced lithium-ion cells for its battery pack. These cells have a high energy density, making them a popular choice for electric vehicles. More