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    Yamaha MT15 New Vs Old Compared – First Look Walkaround

    New Yamaha MT15 V2.0 packs in multiple updates across styling, functionality and performanceYamaha MT15 Ver 2.0 – New vs OldAfter updating R15 last year in September, Yamaha launched new-gen MT15 a few days back. Both bikes share the same platform and most of the upgrades introduced with R15 V4 are now available with MT15 V2.0.New MT15 has been launched at a starting price of Rs 1.6 lakh, which is around Rs 10-15k more than the earlier model. Here’s a quick comparison between old MT15 vs. MT15 V2.0 to understand the key differences between the two bikes.Yamaha MT15 New Vs Old – Styling and FeaturesWhile R15 V4 has received multiple visual updates in comparison to its predecessor, new MT15 Ver 2.0 remains largely the same as earlier in terms of its design and styling. Visual updates on MT15 Ver 2.0 are limited to things like refreshed front mudguard, body graphics and raised tail lamp. Quality of mudguard appears to have been improved with the use of thicker plastic material.Some visual changes are based on functional improvements such as USD front forks in golden finish. Old MT15 had standard telescopic forks at front. Talking about colour options, MT15 Ver 2.0 gets two new colour options of Cyan Storm and Racing Blue. Earlier colour options of Metallic Black and Ice Fluo-Vermillion have been retained. Dark Matt Blue and Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Edition options have been discontinued for new MT15 Ver 2.0.[embedded content][embedded content]Features that are the same as earlier include bi-functional LED headlights, multi-function negative LCD instrument console, sporty rear view mirrors, sculpted fuel tank, rugged engine guard, uni-level seat with grab bar and upswept exhaust.As compared to old MT15, the newer model has been equipped with Bluetooth-based connectivity features. These are the same as available with other Yamaha bikes such as R15 V4. Connectivity features can be accessed via Yamaha Y-Connect app. Users can get notified about calls, SMS, email, app connectivity status and phone battery level.Y-Connect app also has other functions such as fuel consumption tracker, last parking location, revs dashboard, malfunction notification and maintenance recommendations. Some of these can be quite useful. For example, the revs dashboard can show information that is not displayed on the instrument console. It shows information such as engine RPM, rate of acceleration, degree of throttle opening, real-time fuel consumption and eco-friendly riding indicator.Yamaha MT15 Ver 2.0 – New vs OldMT15 vs. MT15 V2.0 engine and specsPowering MT15 V2.0 is the updated 155cc liquid cooled motor that was introduced last year with R15 V4. It generates 18.4 PS of max power and 14.1 Nm of peak torque. These numbers are largely the same as that of old MT15. The engine is paired with a 6-speed constant mesh transmission.In other changes, rear swingarm has been updated for MT15 V2.0. Braking apparatus remains the same, dual discs with single-channel ABS. There were talks about dual-channel ABS, but that hasn’t been the case. In comparison, R15 V4 has dual-channel ABS. More

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    Hero Splendor Electric Motorcycle Kit Homologated By ARAI – Specs

    EV sales, coupled with conversion of existing ICE based units to electric, will help expedite the transition to an all-electric ecosystemHero Splendor Electric Motorcycle Kit – GoGoA1While there is much interest in electric vehicles and sales is booming, millions of fossil fuel powered vehicles still continue to pollute the environment. As a complete ban is practically not executable, the next best alternative is to convert these vehicles into EVs using specialized conversion kits. One such kit meant for Hero Splendor has now received approval from ARAI, Pune.Hero Splendor Electric Motorcycle KitElectric conversion kit for Hero Splendor is manufactured by Mumbai-based GoGo A1 Motors Pvt. Ltd. It is currently the only RTO-approved provider of conversion kits for Splendor motorcycles. The startup had launched this kit last year in September. It has now received approval from ARAI.As per the certificate issued, the electric motor that is being used as part of the conversion kit has max power of 3.94 kW (5.35 hp). Max 30 minute power output is 2.0 kW. The kit complies with the provisions mentioned in the Central Motor Vehicle Rules 1989. It has been deemed fit for use with Hero Splendor motorcycles manufactured/registered on and after March 01, 1997.The approval certificate for the conversion kit will be valid for a period of three years from its date of issue. It will be subject to any amendments that may be introduced in CMV Rules in the future.Hero Splendor Electric Motorcycle Kit – Homologated by ARAIIf the manufacturer carries out any changes to the conversion kit, they will have to apply for a recertification. Things like proper fitment, maintenance and functioning of the conversion kit will be the responsibility of the manufacturer.New life for old Splendor motorcyclesElectric conversion kit by GoGoA1 will be a great help for users who want to switch to electric. It can also be used as a means to extend the life of old Splendor motorcycles, whose registration extension may not be possible. As per estimates, the conversion kit can add 5-7 years to motorcycles that are 10 years or older. Upon conversion to electric, these motorcycles will also remain outside the purview of new scrappage policy.Since its launch, GoGoA1 electric conversion kit for Splendor has witnessed increased demand. The company has expanded operations pan India to include states like Delhi, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Gujarat and Maharashtra. It has more than 50 franchises across major cities in the country. GoGoA1 provides a comprehensive range of services including conversion kit, installation and fitment, leasing of vehicle and battery swapping.Hero Splendor Electric Motorcycle Kit from GoGoA1At the time of its launch, GoGoA1’s electric conversion kit for Splendor was offered at Rs 35k. This is excluding the price of the battery pack. If the battery is included, the total cost will be around Rs 95,000. Range of electric Splendor will be around 151 km on a full charge. Price of the conversion kit is likely to be higher now in comparison to its launch price. More

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    New Harley Davidson Nightster Makes Global Debut – Full Specs

    New Harley Davidson Nightster has been offered in three colour options including Vivid Black, Gunship Grey, and Redline RedNew Harley Davidson NightsterHarley Davidson has officially unveiled the 2022 iteration of Nightster globally. It is the second model in Harley’s Sport range after the recently launched 2022 Sportster S. However, Nightster is more of a roadster than a full-fledged cruiser like Sportster S and there is a good reason for it.Offered at a starting price of USD 13,499 (approx. INR 10.29 lakh), the latest iteration Nightster reaches showrooms across US from April onwards. It is also expected to go on sale in India soon. Nightster has been listed on the Harley India website.2022 Harley Davidson Nightster -DesignVisually, Nightster hits all the right notes that a traditional sportster should with its chopped front and rear fenders, a round headlamp, a solo bobber’s seat, a peanut-shaped fuel tank and a round air intake cover. That said, the iconic American bike maker has incorporated some modern touches to the motorcycle like seven-spoke black alloy wheels and a single-sided exhaust canister that looks beefy.Dig deeper and one notices some intricate details like the visible fuel tank which is actually an airbox cover while the actual fuel tank is located under the seat behind the side covers. Placing this 12-litre fuel tank this way has allowed a lower centre of gravity for the bike while also allowing Harley Davidson to maximise size of the airbox. One needs to lift the hinged locking seat while refuelling.New Harley Davidson NightsterHardware SetupNightster is based on the same steel trellis frame as Sportster S thus showing its versatility. However, the former’s aluminium tail section and welded rectangular steel swingarm are different in comparison to the latter. The chassis is mounted on 41mm Showa dual bending valve telescopic forks at front and dual twin emulsion shock absorbers at rear which are directly attached to the swingarm.New Harley Davidson NightsterThe low-slung roadster rides on 19-inch front and 16-inch rear cast aluminium alloy wheels. Anchorage is handled by a 320mm disc in front with an axially mounted 4-piston calliper and a 260mm disc at rear with a floating single-piston calliper. An accessible seat height of 706mm accompanied by centre-set footpegs and a wide handlebar pulled towards the rider should provide comfortable riding ergonomics.Powertrain Specs & FeaturesPowering the new Harley Davidson Nightster is a new Revolution Max 975cc liquid-cooled 60-degree V-twin engine that produces 90 bhp at 7,500rpm and 95 Nm of peak torque at 5,000 rpm. This engine is linked to a six-speed transmission via an assist and slip mechanical wet clutch. This 975T is basically a downsized version of the 1252cc powering Sportster S.Harley Davidson Nightster SpecsUnlike Sportster S which comes with an LCD display, Nightster is equipped with a 4-inch analog gauge with a multifunction LCD display. It offers three ride modes including Rain, Road and Sport each increasing in performance and response. Other notable features on offer in Nightster are all-LED illumination, ABS and a traction control system. More

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    New Yamaha MT15 V2 Arrives At Dealer Showroom – All 4 Colours

    Yamaha MT15 Version 2.0 gets upside down fork in front, an aluminum swing-arm along with an all-digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth Y-ConnectYamaha MT15 V2 At Dealer ShowroomIndia Yamaha Motors has launched the new MT15 Version 2.0, bringing in better features and new colours. It is priced from Rs 1,59,900 (ex-showroom) and presented in colour options of Cyan Storm and Racing Blue, along with older colour schemes of Ice Fluo-Vermillion and Metallic Black colour schemes.The new Version 2.0 is a part of the company’s ‘The Call of the Blue’ strategy and brings with it a host of features, some of which are MotoGP inspired along with Yamaha’s patented Deltabox frame, which relates to superior handling. First batch of the new Yamaha MT15 2022 has started to arrive at dealer showrooms across India. Hat tip to Torque TV, Nikam Yamaha and Bonny Auto for sharing the exclusive photos.Yamaha MT15 Version 2.0 – Features2022 Yamaha MT15 V2 naked street fighter is based on the fully faired sports bike Yamaha R15 V4, that was launched in September 2021. It continues to sport LED projector head and tail lamps along with LED DRLs. Indicators are halogen.New MT15 gets a fully digital instrument console that has been redesigned. It now supports Bluetooth connectivity for calling, SMS and email alerts. The bike is also seen with a Side Stand with Engine Cut-off Switch. Yamaha’s Y-Connect App, also seen on the Version 2.0 offers a wide range of connectivity options along with remote access on the rider’s smartphone.Yamaha MT15 V2 Colour OptionsIt gets some innovative new badging along with muscular bodywork and a raised tail section. Yamaha MT-15 Version 2.0 rides on 17 inch wheels at the front and rear fitted with 100/80 front and 140/70 rear tubeless tyre.2022 MT15 Version 2.0 kerb weight is 139kgs. It gets Yamaha’s patented Delta Box frame, giving it better handling capabilities while it now sports VVA – Variable Valve Actuation. Seat is single piece.Yamaha MT15 V2 SpecsYamaha MT15 Version 2.0 is powered by a 155cc, liquid cooled, 4 stroke, SOHC, 4 valve engine. This engine produces 18.4 hp power at 10,000 rpm and 14.1 Nm torque at 7,500 rpm mated to a 6 speed gearbox sending power to the rear wheel. There is also Assist and Slip clutch for lighter actuation along with Single Channel ABS and 282mm front and 220mm rear disc brakes.2022 Yamaha MT15 V2Suspension upgrades include 37mm upside down fork in the front, similar to that seen on the 2022 Yamaha R15 V4 and pre-load adjustable mono shock at the rear. Feature updates also include a new upside down fork, taking the place of the conventional telescopic fork. This fork is finished in a shade of Gold, adding to its aesthetic appeal.Yamaha MT-15 V2.0 is priced at Rs 1.60 lakh which is about Rs 14,000 more than the older model which was available at Rs 1.46 lakh. It will compete with the KTM Duke 125, Bajaj Pulsar NS200. Honda Hornet and TVS Apache RTR160 4V. Yamaha MT 15 V2 aims to appeal to a younger set of buyers as it strikes a balance between both daily commuting and weekend riding needs. More

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    Suzuki Burgman Electric Scooter Launch Delayed By Two Years

    Despite undergoing final stages of testing, Suzuki has announced a two-year delay for the launch of Burgman Electric scooter in IndiaSuzuki Burgman Electric Scooter SpiedLike all other auto manufacturers, Suzuki is also looking to venture into the electric mobility space in India sooner or later. The company has already started testing a new e-scooter whose design appears to be based on Burgman Street 125. Test mules of this battery-powered scooter have been spied testing on multiple occasions previously.As per a new report, development of this upcoming electric scooter has been delayed by a couple of years. Earlier, Suzuki Burgman Electric was expected to make its debut in India later this year, but that is no longer the case as launch has been postponed by a couple of years.Suzuki Burgman Electric Launch Delay – Possible ReasonsIn a recent interaction with an online publication, Satoshi Uchida, Company Head, Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt Ltd, and Devashish Handa, Executive Vice President (Sales, Marketing, & After Sales) SIMPL, revealed that Burgman Electric’s launch is still a couple of years away. According to Suzuki officials, development time of the upcoming electric scooter has been extended thanks to high ambient temperatures in our country.Another possible reason for this delay could be the fact that Suzuki is still awaiting Government’s policy on battery standardisation. All four major Japanese brands including Honda, Yamaha and Kawasaki, have already signed an agreement to standardise swappable batteries and replacement systems for international markets.Suzuki Burgman Electric ScooterA near production-ready prototype of the Burgman battery-powered scooter was first spied back in December 2020 which apparently wore a similar look in comparison to its IC engine-powered counterpart. A test mule of the same was last spotted in March this year. While its shape and silhouette are very similar to conventional scooters, Burgman Electric is expected to feature very unique internal mechanics.Challenges for E-Scooter ManufacturersThis comes at a time when several battery-powered scooters have been reported to catch fire across India recently. Several prominent brands like Ola Electric, Okinawa and Pure EV are under scanner and have earned a bad name for themselves. It is understandable that other manufacturers and not just Suzuki might extend their launch timeline, putting some extra time and effort into research and development.Henceforth, EV manufacturers are expected to test batteries and battery management software quite rigorously and improve functioning of their thermal system. Honda too has been testing the Benly E utility scooter in India for some time now to check performance of its removable battery in Indian conditions.Other Upcoming E-scootersMany prominent two-wheeler brands have lined up their respective EV offerings for launch in India in coming months. While Honda has confirmed that it will be launching its first e-scooter in the Indian market this fiscal, Hero MotoCorp will be venturing into EV manufacturing and retailing with a separate vertical and a new brand name Vida.Also, Yamaha recently showcased its first two production-spec battery-powered scooters named E01 and Neo’s in the country. It will be interesting to see if launch timelines of any of these models get affected due to recent events.Source More

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    Two Wheeler Retail Sales Mar 2022 – Hero, Honda, TVS, Bajaj, RE, Jawa, Yezdi

    Retail sales numbers for March 2022 suggest that there is a clear migration towards electric scootersModified RE 650cc. Image – Rebellious GarageTwo wheeler retail sales dipped 4.02 percent YoY to 11,57,681 units in March 2022. This was against 12,06,191 units sold in March 2021 while retail sales fell sharply by 37.33 percent from 18,47,314 units sold in March 2020, the month in which the lockdown in view of the COVID-19 pandemic was announced.Hero MotoCorp led the sales chart in March 2022 with retail sales of 3,73,528 units, down from 3,99,206 units sold in March 2021. Market share dipped from 33.10 percent to 32.27 percent on a YoY basis. Demand was high for the company’s Glamour, Splendor, Passion and HF Deluxe motorcycles, while the company now gets ready to embark on an electric journey with a new brand name ‘Vida’.Two Wheeler Retail Sales Mar 2022Honda sales also dipped YoY to 2,81,725 units in March 2022 from 3,16,936 units sold in March 2021. Market share fell to 24.34 percent in the past month from 26.28 percent held in the same month of the previous year. Honda also plans an array of electric vehicles with design patents filed. TVS Motor Company has seen its retail sales increase to 1,81,328 units last month from 1,79,521 units sold in March 2021. Market share also went up to 15.66 percent from 14.88 percent.Bajaj Auto and Royal Enfield saw retail sales dip in March 2022. Bajaj Auto retail sales stood at 1,23,413 units, down from 1,38,290 units sold in March 2021. Market share dipped to 10.66 percent from 11.47 percent YoY. Royal Enfield sales fell to 50,762 units last month from 60,847 units sold in March 2021.Two Wheeler Retail Sales March 2022 vs March 2021 (YoY) – FADASuzuki Motorcycle India retail sales increased to 49,371 units from 48,741 unit retail sales in March 2021 bringing up market share to 4.26 percent from 4.04 percent YoY. In March 2022, India Yamaha Motor sales dipped to 41,812 units from 44,311 units YoY. The company has just announced a price hike from 1st April 2022 even as the company had earlier revised prices in January and February 2022. The company cites rising input costs as reasons for this latest price hike.Electric Two Wheelers March 2022Hero Electric sales increased to 13,023 units in March 2022 from 5,235 units sold in March 2021. Market share went up to 1.12 percent last month from 0.43 percent held in March 2021. Hero Electric remained the top electric two wheeler brand in India with an impressive lineup that includes the likes of Photon HX, Optima HX, NYX HX and Flash LX.Ola Electric sales stood at 9,121 units in March 2022. The company has faced some constraints, but has increased production to keep up with demand. Another electric two wheeler company, Okinawa Autotech has also seen increased sales in March 2022 at 8,284 units, up from 1,530 units sold in March 2021. Ampere sales also increased to 6,338 units in the past month from 941 units retailed in March 2021.Two Wheeler Retail Sales March 2022 vs Feb 2022 (MoM) – FADALower down the order, Classic Legends (Jawa / Yezdi) sales were up to 4,234 units in March 2022 from 2,561 units sold in March 2021. Piaggio retail sales stood at 3,870 units, down from 4,826 units sold in March 2022. Ather Energy’s retail sales increased twofold to 2,222 units from 1,064 units sold in March 2021. PUR Energy (2,066 units) Revolt (1,409 units) saw retail sales increase YoY while there were others on this list that also included some EV makers that saw sales of 5,175 units last month, up from 1,450 units sold in March 2021. More

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    Tork Kratos Electric Motorcycle Production Starts – 500 Units per Month

    Tork Kratos R is packed with a more powerful motor and a few additional features over its standard variantTork Kratos Electric MotorcycleTork Motors ventured into electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing when it launched its first product in the form of Kratos, earlier in January this year. The electric motorcycle recently underwent series production at the company’s manufacturing facility near Pune from where the first unit rolled out.Deliveries are expected to commence later this month with an initial focus on customers in Pune. The electric bike is available in two variants namely- Kratos and Kratos R which have been priced at Rs 1.08 lakh and Rs 1.23 lakh respectively (both ex-showroom prices, Pune).Tork Kratos Production BeginsThrough a social media post, the Pune-based technology company turned EV manufacturer had claimed that it will be rolling out 500 units of the electric motorcycle every month. The EV startup has also claimed that it will set up a new micro-manufacturing unit soon. Tork will soon start reaching out to its customers and start the registration and delivery processes.The company recently organised a test ride event in Pune. Tork first introduced a pre-production prototype of an electric motorcycle back in 2016 in the form of the T6X concept. Kratos borrows a large chunk of its overall design from the pre-production concept bike.Tork Kratos Electric MotorcycleKratos, Kratos R SpecsBase variant of Kratos is powered by a 7.5kW electric motor that produces a peak output of 10.05 bhp and 28 Nm of peak torque. The more powerful Kratos R is powered by a 9kW electric motor that dishes out 12.06bhp and 38Nm of peak torque. Both variants derive their energy from a 4kWh IP67 certified lithium-ion battery pack that is claimed to deliver an IDC range of 180km.However, actual range of the electric motorcycle is pegged at 120km on a single charge. The bike comes with three ride modes- Eco, City and Sport, where ECo offers the best range of around 120 km per charge and Sport offers the best performance where range on a single charge is around 80km. Using a regular AC charger, it takes the battery 4-5 hours to get completely charged.Kratos R also benefits from the fast-charging network which allows the battery to be rejuvenated from 0-80 percent in just 60 minutes. Owners of Kratos R will also be offered free access to the fast charging network for two years.Apart from Pune, Tork will also retail Kratos in other important centres like Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Ahmedabad, and Delhi, however, deliveries for these cities are expected to commence later this year or early next year. More

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    New Yamaha Electric Scooters Showcased To Dealers In India

    E01 And NEO’s electric scooters had made their global debut earlier this year in March; India launch likely next yearYamaha Electric Scooters Showcased To Dealers In India. Image – Nikam YamahaAs compared to startups like Ather, Ola, Okinawa, Ampere, Revolt, etc., mainstream two-wheeler manufacturers like Yamaha are yet to target the EV space on a large scale. There are limitations for such OEMs, as they have to maintain focus on their primary petrol powered two-wheelers. Good thing is Yamaha has now taken its first steps in the EV journey by showcasing E01 And NEO’s electric scoters at dealers’ meet. Hat tip to Nikam Yamaha and Torque TV for sharing the images.Yamaha Electric Scooters For India – E01E01 is more likely to make it here, as it’s comparable to a 125cc petrol scooter. Yamaha already has a strong presence in this space with popular scooters like Fascino and RayZR. Similar USPs can be created for E01. Moreover, Yamaha has already filed the trademark for E01.As may be recalled, E01 electric scooter concept was showcased at 2019 Tokyo Motor Show. The maxi-styled scooter has a sporty profile with prominent front fascia, dual headlights, compact windscreen and wide, comfortable single piece seat. The scooter is expected to be offered in both single and dual-tone colour options.Other key features of E01 include fully digital instrument console, Bluetooth connectivity and keyless ignition. It will have three ride modes of Eco, Normal and Power. Max range with a single battery pack is expected to be around 70-80 km on a full charge.Yamaha Electric Scooters For India. Image – Nikam YamahaIn European markets, E01 is likely to be equipped with a 11kW (15 bhp) motor. This is as per the regulatory requirements mandated for light electric scooters. In Europe, E01 will debut as part of a ride sharing fleet.Yamaha Neo’s electric scooterBased on E02 concept showcased at 2019 Tokyo Motor Show, Neo’s electric scooter recently debuted in Europe at a starting price of EUR 3,005 (approx. Rs 2.52 lakh). It will go on sale later this year in May.Yamaha Neo’s electric scooter is equipped with a 50.4V, 19.2Ah Lithium-ion battery pack that weighs 8kg. It supplies power to a brushless DC hub motor, rated to deliver 2.5 kW (3.4PS) of power and 136 Nm of torque in Standard mode. The powertrain is comparable to a 50cc scooter. It is to note that Neo’s is already available as a 50cc petrol powered scooter in select markets.Yamaha Electric Scooters For IndiaIn Eco mode, power output is restricted to 1.58kW. With a single battery, range is around 38.5 km. This can be extended to 68 km using a dual battery setup. Charging time is around eight hours when a standard AC charger is used.It is not certain if Neo’s electric scooter will be launched in India. Charging and battery swapping infrastructure are still underdeveloped in the country. This significantly limits the acceptability for an electric scooter with low range. Market trends indicate that there’s growing preference for electric scooters with around 100+ km range. More