More stories

  • in

    BMW 310 RR New Teaser Shows Alloys, Exhaust – Same As Apache

    BMW is getting ready to launch a new 310cc motorcycle, based on the Apache 310 – Here is a new teaserNew BMW RR 310As part of the collaboration between BMW and TVS, a new BMW-branded fully-faired bike will debut on July 15. The new bike will be aiming to replicate the success that Apache RR310 has had in this segment.In the 300cc segment, BMW currently offers the G310R naked roadster and G310GS adventure tourer. All these bikes are manufactured at TVS plant in Hosur, Tamil Nadu. The new BMW bike will also be manufactured at the same facility.BMW 310RR stylingIt is expected that the BMW 310 RR carries a different design, and is not a rebadged Apache 310. The latest teaser gives a closer look at the bottom half of the motorcycle, and it does same as the Apache 310. Alloys, exhaust unit, suspension setup, etc is all same. But it could have a top half with unique styling.BMW’s new fully faired 310cc bike could borrow styling from its litre-class sibling – S1000RR. Some key features include a pointy front cowl for reduced drag, sleek LED DRLs, compact windscreen with mounted rear view mirrors, sculpted fuel tank and side fairing, prominent engine cowl and sharp tail section. The bike could get an underbelly exhaust to reduce clutter and achieve design symmetry.Another differentiating factor for BMW 310RR will be its unique colour options. It will have the signature BMW theme that utilizes a dynamic mix of blue, red and white shades. Making it even sportier will be the golden shaded USD forks. In comparison, colour options for Apache RR310 include Titanium Black and Racing Red. Both versions are equipped with golden USD forks.Even though BMW’s version of the 310cc sports bike will be costlier than Apache RR310, the company will try to quote a competitive price. To reduce costs, much of the equipment will be borrowed from Apache RR310. BMW recently posted a teaser that revealed the tail lights of the new bike. This tail light is exactly the same as used with Apache RR310.BMW 310RR enginePowering BMW 310RR will be the 312.2cc, liquid cooled, 4-valve motor, currently in use with Apache RR310. Power and torque output varies based on the ride mode selected. In Sport and Track mode, power output is 34 PS at 9,700 rpm whereas torque is 27.3 Nm at 7,700 rpm.New BMW RR 310 and Apache 310In Urban and Rain mode, the numbers drop to 25.8 PS and 25 Nm. Engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox and comes with a slipper clutch. Apache RR310 has top speed of 160 kmph and can achieve 0-100 kmph in 7.17 seconds.Suspension and braking systems onboard BMW 310RR are expected to be the same as that of Apache RR310. The latter utilizes a trellis frame with USD forks and swingarm rear suspension. Braking system comprises 300mm and 240mm petal disc at front and rear with dual-channel ABS as standard.BMW RR310 New TeaserBMW may not need to carry out extensive changes on its new bike, as Apache RR310 already has quite a few advanced features. It includes state-of-the-art electronic throttle control (ETC), advanced engine cooling system, optimized aerodynamics and race-tuned KYB suspension. Apache RR310 also has a range of connectivity features, accessible via the SmartXonnect app. More

  • in

    Yamaha Electric Scooter Prototype Getting Ready – Production Likely At TN Plant

    Yamaha electric scooter could be launched at a competitive price point, as majority of parts will be sourced from local vendorsYamaha E01 Electric ScooterWith electric two-wheeler segment registering strong growth, ICE experts like Yamaha are stepping up focus in this space. The company’s chairman Eishnin Chihana has said that they are in the process of developing an electric scooter for Indian market.Currently, Yamaha India’s R&D team at Chennai has started making the prototype electric scooter. It is likely to enter production at the company plant in Kancheepuram, Tamil Nadu. Yamaha expects about 30% of their buyers to opt for EV in 3-5 years.Based on Neo’sEarlier this year in April, Yamaha showcased two of its electric scooters to its dealers. One was E01, which has already been trademarked in India. The other scooter was Neo’s, which is available in select international markets. Neo’s was originally launched as a 50cc ICE scooter. Its electric version came later.Earlier, it was felt that E01 has a higher chance of being launched in India. The E01 concept maxi-styled scooter was first unveiled at 2019 Tokyo Motor Show. In terms of performance, it is comparable to a 125cc petrol scooter. It has three ride modes and range is expected to be approximately 70-80 km.Yamaha Electric Scooters Showcased To Dealers In India. Image – Nikam YamahaHowever, Yamaha seems to be more inclined towards using Neo’s for developing its first electric scooter for India. It could be tweaked to suit Indian conditions, for example, more power and higher range. In European markets, Neo’s electric scooter has a range of 37 km. Range can be increased with the use of a dual battery pack.While 37 km range seems quite low, Yamaha has kept it that way intentionally. The range is based on a survey that revealed average per day travel distance to be around 25-35 km. However, the survey doesn’t account for the fact that at this low range, users will have to charge their scooters every day. Interestingly, the India-spec Yamaha electric scooter could also be exported to Europe.Yamaha is still to finalize the range of its electric scooter for India. It may take some time to achieve a balance between performance and range. Chihana has stated that it will be difficult to achieve a real world range of 100 km with existing battery management technologies. This is especially true for performance-oriented electric scooters with speeds of around 45 to 60 kmph.Local sourcingAs of now, a significant percentage of EV manufacturers rely on imported components for their electric vehicles. This can create dependencies that may have adverse impact on production in case of unforeseen events like pandemic, war, etc. Using imported components also makes it difficult to keep a tab on quality. It limits the scope for design and performance improvements and to make the EV available at a competitive price point.In view of these challenges, Yamaha has decided to source much of the components for its electric scooter from local vendors. The company will also work to ensure that the motor and battery pack can endure the extreme climate conditions in India. Yamaha has stated that it will be focusing on quality. Yamaha’s first electric scooter for India will be a joint collaboration project involving Yamaha India and Yamaha Japan.Source More

  • in

    Honda 350cc ADV Scooter Planned For Launch – Patent Leaks

    With products like ADV350, Honda will be looking to take early leads in premium maxi-scooter segmentFile photo.Unveiled at 2021 EICMA, Honda ADV350 is available in select international markets. In view of possibilities that may emerge in the future, Honda has patented ADV350 in India. The company will be tracking opportunities in this space and launch ADV350 at an appropriate time. The maxi-scooter will command premium pricing, just like BMW C 400 GT scooter that is available at a starting price of Rs 10.40 lakh (ex-sh). In the UK, Honda ADV350 2022 model is priced at £5,699 (approx. INR 5.57 lakh).Honda 350cc ADV Scooter featuresHonda ADV350 can tackle everyday commuting needs, as well as explore areas beyond city limits. It borrows much of its adventure DNA from Honda X-ADV. Some of the key features of ADV350 include its rugged design, chiselled body panels, dual headlamp setup with DRLs, an adjustable windscreen, step-up seat and upswept exhaust.As compared to a motorcycle, Honda ADV350 can be expected to provide better control and handling. Although the scooter has a beasty profile, seat height of 780mm makes things easily manageable. It may not be as capable as an ADV bike, but it can easily tackle unpaved pathways and mild off-road tracks. Using ADV350 can be a lot more fun, as the maxi-scooter has relaxed ergonomics paired with powerful performance.Off-roading capabilities of Honda ADV350 are supported with features such as long suspension travel. The scooter has USD front forks with 125mm travel and twin rear shock absorbers with 130 mm of travel. Ground clearance of 145mm also helps tackle uneven terrain. The scooter is equipped with block-pattern tyres that ensure optimal grip across varied environments.Honda ADV 350 ADV scooter patented in IndiaWith Honda ADV350, users can access a range of utilitarian features. It includes a front glovebox with USB type-C socket and large 48-liter under seat storage. Two full-face helmets can be accommodated with room to spare. The scooter has been designed to deflect air away from the rider, which reduces fatigue during longer journeys.Honda ADV350 has Bluetooth connectivity, allowing the rider to access phone calls and music. Overall experience can be further improved with a range of official accessories. It includes things like rear carrier rack, smart top box, inner bags and heated grips.Honda ADV350 performancePowering Honda ADV350 maxi-scooter is a 330cc liquid cooled, SOHC motor that generates 29 PS of max power and 31.5 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a CVT gearbox and utilizes a V-belt drive. With this powerful motor, ADV350 can easily outmanoeuvre the traffic and cruise effortlessly on highways.Riding experience is further improved with Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) that automatically adjusts rear wheel traction based on riding conditions. With use of low-friction technologies, the engine is able to deliver mileage of around 29.4 kmpl (as per WMTC model). On a full tank with 11.5 litres of fuel, the scooter can travel around 340 km without refuelling. More

  • in

    Yamaha MT15, KTM Duke Parts Create This Modified Motorcycle – Rs 1.8 L

    The cost for this modification is more than the price of a pre-owned Yamaha MT 25Yamaha MT15 and KTM Duke parts – Modified MotorcycleHave you ever thought about what would happen if Yamaha and KTM designers got together to launch a motorcycle? Have you ever thought about how it would look? Ever thought about what design traits would it inherit? It is a funny thought, isn’t it? I’m sure you must be blank right now. But we’re not actually joking with this. We are going to show you the fusion of Yamaha and KTM design.A conservative person would never dream of doing anything close to what Indonesian citizen Cak Rian has done. It is because Cak Rian isn’t a conservative person. His mind has an artistic side. An artist’s vision only makes sense in the mettle. So, he put his foot aside and went on to create what he was aching to do. We have Yamaha’s motorcycles modified to the max before. But not like this.Yamaha MT15 and KTM Duke parts – Modified MotorcycleYamaha Modified With MT15, KTM PartsThe concept of mixing and matching elements of two different motorcycle manufacturers originating from two different countries and cultures following two entirely different design languages, feels wrong, doesn’t it?It feels like adding raw onions to pastries. In short, it should look like an abomination of sorts. At least that’s what I was expecting before looking at the motorcycle closely. Because it lends a whole different perspective.Yamaha MT15 and KTM Duke parts – Modified MotorcycleEven though this custom motorcycle sounds wrong, it surely doesn’t look wrong. The choice of parts and their cohesion is where this custom bike shines. Everything on the motorcycle looks cohesive and they look like they belong together. The motorcycle looks like it came straight out of the factory as the fit and finish are also very stupendous.Yamaha MT15 and KTM Duke parts – Modified MotorcycleFor starters, it is based on Yamaha Vixion R’s frame and engine. Vixion R was sold as a naked version of R15 old gen in some countries. The model in question, which has been modified, is a 2015 Vixion R. Everything else seems to be changed though. The fuel tank and body panels come from a Yamaha MT15. The LED headlights are lifted straight off a KTM 390 Duke. The front USD forks finished in gold are also from MT15.Cost & HomologationThe rear swingarm was a box-section type on the original bike which has been swapped with Yamaha R25’s sophisticated swingarm. The stock wheels are replaced with 3” wide wheel at front and 5.5” wide wheel at the rear, both from V Rossi brand and shod with Michelin rubber.Yamaha MT15 and KTM Duke parts – Modified MotorcycleThe wheels and some body panels are hydro dipped with a carbon-fibre pattern. It also gets dual disc brakes at the front from Honda CBR 600. It also has the exhaust system lifted straight off a Yamaha R6. The tail-lights are from Yamaha MT-09.There are hundreds more parts that went on this modified Vixion R motorcycle. A list so huge, it would have taken 5 more posts like this to cover every tiny detail. When everything is accounted for, it culminates in an amount totalling 33 million Indonesian Rupiah (Rs. 1.8 lakh approx) excluding labour and service charges. For this money, the owner could have easily got himself a pre-owned MT25. But the heart wants what it wants and it looks like Cak Rian’s heart was set on this.Source More

  • in

    New Honda Vario 160cc Maxi Scooter Patented In India – Aerox Rival

    Honda has equipped Vario 160 maxi-scooter with a sharp and futuristic suit landing it straight into Aerox 155’s alleyNew Honda Vario 160The Maxi-scooter trend is slowly catching on in India. They’re not entirely new to Indians as we were familiar with the Kinetic Blaze with a 165 cc engine. It had size to its advantage along with comfort. But, the Indian motorcycle market wasn’t mature enough to embrace a maxi-scooter.Suzuki India was the first to revive maxi-scooters in India with the launch of Burgman Street 125. It soon gained popularity for its relaxed ergonomics and its massive street presence. Looking at its success, Suzuki is also considering an electric Burgman Street as seen by the test mules.After Burgman Street 125, Aprilia stepped in with their SXR 160 maxi-scooter. It brought a touch of Italian flair with it. After that, Yamaha planned for the launch of NMax 155 maxi-scooter in India. But Yamaha wanted to test the market further, so they launched the Aerox 155 sports scooter based on the R15 engine.Honda Vario 160cc PatentedEven though Honda is late to the maxi-scooter party, it wants to make a strong appearance. Enters Vario 160. Honda recently filed a design patent for Vario 160 in India which has also been approved. For starters, Honda Vario comes in both 125 cc and 160 cc variants in Southeast Asian markets. For India, Honda has patented the bigger 160 cc model taking the fight directly to Aerox 155 and Aprilia SXR 160.Honda Vario 160 Patented in IndiaVario range of maxi-scooters have been on sale in Southeast Asian countries for a very long time. In fact, the Vario patented for India, is the 7th generation of the scooter and has been in production since 2006. This 7th gen model is also the sharpest looking of its predecessors. It gets a futuristic and edgy design language that is matched with its overall personality.It is powered by a 160 cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled motor that churns out around 15.3 PS and 13.8 Nm. It comes very close to Aerox 155’s figures at 15 PS and 13.9 Nm. It’s neck-n-neck to be honest. Other highlights of Vario 160 are telescopic forks at front and a mono-shock unit at the rear. It also gets single disc brakes at both ends and we can expect either dual-channel ABS or Honda’s CBS. It gets 14” wheels wrapped with 100/80 rubber at front and 120/70 rubber at the back.Other features include LED headlights, LED DRLs, LED tail-lights and LED turn indicators. It also gets a fully digital instrument cluster and also Honda’s smart key along with a USB charging port.New Honda Vario 160ccLaunch & CompetitionBack then, people associated scooters as a measly product meant for women to ease their daily commutes. A scooter that had a 150+ cc engine meant for long hauls was scoffed upon. With the Indian motorcycle market maturing enough for maxi-scooters, Honda Vario 160 makes absolute sense and it takes on the Aerox 155.Even though both the scooters boast similar performance figures, Honda pulls a trump card on Aerox 155 as it is 11 kg lighter than Aerox 155. But going with Honda’s spree of filing patents, most of them have never seen the light of day. Even though Honda hasn’t mentioned a launch timeline for Vario 160, we wait to see if it launches at all. More

  • in

    Hero Splendor XTEC New Features Detailed – Official TVC

    Splendor Plus Xtec is available in four colours of Sparkling Beta Blue, Canvas Black, Tornado Grey and Pearl WhiteNew Hero Splendor XTEC TVCHero Splendor, a highly popular commuter bike in the company lineup has been on sale over the past three decades. It features at the top of company sales charts each month over and above all the other models by a significant margin.Over the years, Hero MotoCorp has introduced various iterations of the Splendor Plus, Splendor Plus i3S along with the Drum and Disc variants. Now the company has added a top of the line variant called the Splendor Plus XTEC. It was launched at a price of Rs 72,900 and boasts of a contemporary design and advanced technology.New Hero Splendor XTEC TVC OfficialThis 100cc commuter motorcycle gets four new colour schemes of Sparkling Beta Blue, Canvas Black, Tornado Grey and Pearl White. It gets an LED high intensity position lamp, an LED strip across its front end and new body graphics seen on its headlamp cowl, fuel tank and side panel.The new Splendor XTEC also sports a fully digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth smartphone connectivity which offers features such as incoming calls and SMS message alerts, missed call reminder, etc. Take a look at the official TVC below.[embedded content][embedded content]New Hero Splendor XTEC console is seen with a real time mileage indicator, twin trip meters, odometer, speedometer and fuel gauge. It also comes in with an integrated USB charger, side stand engine cut off system and i3S Technology (Idle Start-Stop System) for better fuel efficiency. In terms of safety, the new Hero Splendor Plus XTEC also gets a Bank Angle Sensor that cuts off the engine during a fall. It rides on 18 inch alloy wheelsHero Splendor Plus XTEC – Engine SpecsThe new Splendor Plus XTEC sees no change in its engine lineup. It continues to be powered by the same engine that powers its standard model. This 97.2cc, BS-VI compliant, single cylinder, air cooled engine makes 7.9 hp power at 7,000 rpm and 8.05 Nm torque at 6,000 rpm mated to a 4 speed gearbox.There is also no change in braking and suspension which are handled via 130mm drum brakes at the front and rear with a combined braking system and telescopic fork in the front and twin springs at the rear. Hero MotoCorp is offering the new XTEC variant with a 5 year warranty.Hero Splendor Plus XTEC is being offered at Rs 72,900, at a premium over the other Splendor variants that are priced from Rs. 69,380 to Rs. 71,700 (ex-showroom, New Delhi). Hero Splendor Plus XTEC enters a segment wherein it will take on the likes of Bajaj Platina, TVS Radeon and Honda CD 110 Deluxe. More

  • in

    Two Wheeler Sales May 2022 – Hero, Honda, Bajaj, TVS, Suzuki, RE

    Two wheeler domestic sales grew substantially by 246.29 percent on a YoY basis while exports fell 4.88 percentRoyal Enfield Sales May 2022Every leading two wheeler maker in India posted a YoY growth in sales in May 2022. Domestic sales of top 6 two wheeler manufacturers saw a total of 11,88,937 units sold in May 2022, up 246.29 percent over 3,43,336 units sold in May 2021. It was also a 8.17 percent MoM growth from 10,99,167 units sold in April 2022.However, it may be recalled that the month of May 2021 was a difficult period for the entire auto industry in India on account of the pandemic situation in the country. May 2021 was the month with highest average cases and deaths in India which continued to see closure of schools, colleges and offices while production operations were also badly hampered.Two Wheeler Sales May 2022 – DomesticHero MotoCorp led the list with a 39.23 percent market share and sales of 4,66,466 units in May 2022. This was against 1,59,561 units sold in May 2021 leading to a 3,06,905 unit volume growth. MoM sales also improved by 17.06 percent from 3,98,490 units sold in April 2022. Market share in the previous month had stood at 36.25 percent.Honda two wheeler sales increased 727.71 percent YoY to 3,20,844 units, up from 38,763 units sold in May 2021. The company commanded a 26.99 percent market share which was down from 29 percent held in April 2022 when sales increased only marginally by 0.66 percent MoM from 3,18,732 units sold in the same month.Two Wheeler Sales May 2022 – DomesticAt No.3 was TVS Motor with YoY sales increase of 267.64 percent to 1,91,482 units, up from 52,084 units sold in May 2021 leading to a 1,39,398 unit volume growth. MoM sales improved by 6.06 percent over 1,80,533 units sold in April 2022. Best-selling models in the company lineup included the Jupiter, Apache, Raider, Sport, Star City, Ntorq, Pep+ and XL100, while the iQube e-scooter also posted good sales numbers.Bajaj Auto (96,102 units) and Suzuki (60,518 units) posted 59.26 percent and 383.64 percent YoY growth in two wheeler sales in May 2022. The two auto majors also saw a MoM growth in sales by 3.08 percent and 11.40 percent respectively over 93,233 units and 54,327 units sold in April 2022. Royal Enfield domestic sales improved 166.65 percent YoY to 53,523 units, up from 20,073 units sold in May 2021 while MoM sales dipped marginally by 0.61 percent over 53,852 units sold in April 2022.Two Wheeler Exports May 2022Even as every leading two wheeler maker posted tremendous growth in domestic sales, exports ended in the red both where YoY and MoM sales were concerned. Total exports of the top 6 two wheeler makers dipped 4.88 percent to 3,22,681 units, down from 3,39,241 units shipped in May 2022. MoM exports fell 14.26 percent over 3,76,357 units sold in April 2022.Two Wheeler Exports May 2022Bajaj Auto led this list with 1,53,397 units exported in May 2022. It was a 14.88 percent YoY decline over 1,80,212 units shipped in May 2021. The company commanded a 47.54 percent share, down from 50.08 percent held in April 2022 when exports dipped 18.61 percent MoM over 1,88,478 units sold. TVS Motor Company posted a YoY and MoM decline in exports. YoY exports fell 6.51 percent to 95,576 units from 1,02,232 units sold in May 2021 while MoM exports dipped 3.93 percent over 99,489 units sold in April 2022.Honda two wheeler exports improved 66.68 percent YoY to 32,344 units but dipped MoM by 23.53 percent over 42,295 units sold in April 2022. Market share also fell from 11.24 percent to 10.02 percent in the corresponding months. There was also Hero MotoCorp (20,238 units), Suzuki (11,008 units) along with RE (10,118 units) on the export list. Hero saw YoY degrowth of 13.82 percent while exports of Suzuki (164.59 percent) and RE (40.12 percent) improved on a YoY basis. RE’s MoM exports also increased 21.86 percent over 8,303 units sold in April 2022.Two Wheeler Total – May 2022Total sales of these leading 6 two wheeler makers saw a YoY growth of 121.46 percent to 15,11,618 units from 6,82,577 units sold in May 2021. MoM sales also increased 2.45 percent from 14,75,524 units sold in April 2022. Hero was at No. 1 with 4,86,704 units sold up by 165.89 percent YoY while Honda followed at No. 2 with sales of 3,53,188 units and YoY sales growth of 507.19 percent. More

  • in

    Royal Enfield Classic 350 Bobber Kits Launched – By Rajputana Customs

    Royal Enfield Classic 350 has been customised into a bobber by Jaipur-based Rajputana Custom MotorcyclesRoyal Enfield Classic 350 Bobber KitThe number of Royal Enfield bikes that go under the knife at a custom workshop must be overwhelming. The brand is synonymous with aftermarket custom modifications and we have witnessed countless examples of custom-built Royal Enfield bikes over the years.The latest example involves a previous-gen model of Classic 350 in its Signals Edition form that has been modified into a bobber. The motorcycle has been custom-built by a Jaipur-based workshop named Rajputana Custom Motorcycles. The bike has undergone several cosmetic and mechanical updates over its donor model. Rajputana Customs has launched bobber kits for both Classic 350 and Classic 500.Royal Enfield Classic 350 Bobber KitsUpfront, the motorcycle gets an aftermarket round headlight with a black grille cover and bezels. Upper section of the front forks also comprises fatter casings. In addition, the front fender has been removed completely which bares the front tyre to its fullest. More importantly, it gets a new custom handlebar with new bar-end weights that is pulled towards the rider.As seen in contemporary bobbers, the pillion seat has been completely removed while the rider’s saddle gets a custom seat which goes well with the overall appeal of the bike. The stock fuel tank has been kept intact and features a 3D Royal Enfield logo and a Signals serial number. Side boxes have been customised as well by addition of ribbed paddings thus amplifying the bike’s rugged appearance.Royal Enfield Classic 350 Bobber KitInternals including the engine gearbox assembly, exhaust, engine sump guard, etc. are painted black as seen in the stock model. For exhaust, Rajputana has utilised a custom-built straight-pipe unit which sports an insulated wrap and golden-finished exhaust tip. Further, the bike rolls on blacked-out wire-spoke wheels that are shod with balloon-type tyres.We also get to see custom plates mounted on the engine cover and crank cover, Rajputana has added custom footpegs that are forward-biased along with a custom kick starter. Noticeably, the airbox has been removed which has left the air filter completely exposed. Front brake and clutch levers are custom-built and feature beautiful artistic patterns.Mechanical Updates & Engine SpecsIn terms of mechanical updates, rear shock absorbers used are aftermarket units with new custom-built mounts. It also gets a new aftermarket shorter rear fender that has been mounted on the swingarm. Braking setup remains identical to the stock model with single disc brakes at both ends.No changes have been mentioned for the powertrain department. Since this is a previous-gen Classic 350, the motorcycle is powered by a 346cc single-cylinder, air-cooled motor which in its BS6 form pushed out 19.2 bhp and 28 Nm of peak torque. This motor was mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. Classic 350 received a generation upgrade last year.Source More