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      2022 Honda CB150X First Official TVC – Features Detailed

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      New Honda CB150X
      Honda will not be launching CB150X in India anytime soon – More powerful CB200X is already on sale in the country
      Honda launched its entry-level adventure tourer last month in Indonesia and became the brand’s smallest bike in the CBX range beating CB200X. A detailed comparison between the two bikes has already been covered to give an idea between the two motorcycles.
      Making its maiden appearance at the 2021 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS), the new CB150X borrows its underpinnings from its street naked counterpart- CB150R Streetfire. A new TV commercial for CB150X has been released on social media by Honda in Indonesia which highlights key attributes of the ADV tourer.
      2022 Honda CB150X TVC ADV Styling
      Like the India-spec CB200X, CB150X is a road-biased tourer with the clothing of an adventure bike. Hence, it tends to flaunt the styling of a proper adventure bike even though its credentials might not support the tag. It gets a signature ADV-style front beak along with a sculpted fuel tank with long shrouds. In fact, the tank shrouds in CB150X are functional which protects the bike’s radiator from any external debris.
      To add to its muscular appeal, Honda has also offered a bash plate which also protects the engine underbelly. Enhancing its touring capabilities is a luggage mounting rack as an accessory and comfortable riding ergonomics thanks to a straight single-piece handlebar turned inwards and centre-set footpegs. It also benefits from an accessible seat height of 805mm.
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      Other notable styling highlights include a tall windscreen, a raked-up tail section, a single-piece saddle, an upswept side-on exhaust and a beefy fuel tank. The golden-coloured front forks also add to the bike’s visual appeal. Another critical aspect highlighted in the commercial video is its impressive ground clearance of 181mm which is helpful while treading along undulated paths.
      Mechanical Specs
      Powering CB150X is a 149cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine that is paired with a 6-speed gearbox. This powertrain is good enough to generate 16.5 bhp at 9000rpm and 13.8Nm of peak torque at 7000rpm. CB150X is underpinned by a diamond-type frame that sits on 37mm Showa USD forks at front with 150mm of travel and a mono-shock at rear.
      Braking is carried out by wavy disc brakes at both ends though there is no mention of ABS. CB150X rolls on 17-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels which are shd with road-biased tyres. Other features on offer include full LED illumination and a fully-digital LCD instrument console. However, it doesn’t offer any form of connectivity options.
      Offered at a starting price of RP 32 million (approx. INR 1.67 lakh) in Indonesia, the baby adventure tourer is not likely to be launched in India anytime soon. This is likely because it is about Rs 21,000 dearer than the CB200X, which is already on sale in the country. More

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      2022 KTM 390 Adventure Rally Spied During Off-Road Testing

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      2022 KTM 390 Adventure Rally Variant SpiedThe KTM 390 Adventure test mules have a significantly different front face featuring a tall windscreen which is reminiscent of Dakar rally bikes
      A few days ago, KTM unveiled the updated Adventure range of motorcycles which included 1290 Super Adventure S, 1290 Super Adventure R, 390 Adventure and 250 Adventure. The latter two hold more significance for the Indian market as they are locally manufactured in the country for domestic sales and export purposes.
      Two test mules of the updated 390 Adventure were recently spotted testing in India under heavy camouflage. These have now been spied again, while performing off-road testing. Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Karan Vazirani for sharing these new spy shots.
      Initial looks suggest these prototypes are more off-road friendly variants of the ADV bike. The new KTM 390 ADV spy shots reveal some significant visual updates on the prototypes over the regular models.
      2022 KTM 390 Adventure Rally – Design Updates
      For starters, the most noticeable change is witnessed at its face. The fascia is reminiscent of the bikes participating in Dakar Rally thanks to a huge transparent windscreen that looks utilitarian. The windscreen is mounted on the front forks and extends above the oddly-shaped headlamp bezel. Another visible variation in these mules is a different exhaust which resembles the one used in Husqvarna Svartpilen 250.
      2022 KTM 390 Adventure Rally Variant Spied
      A major gripe of 390 Adventure owners is its on-road friendly mannerisms which KTM is trying to address with this variant. A wider and taller handlebar has been employed which should offer better ergonomics while off-roading especially while standing to tackle rough terrains. While the bike rides on standard alloy wheels they are wrapped around by rugged block pattern tyres for improved off-roading credentials.
      Interestingly, neither of the prototypes didn’t feature any bash plate to protect the engine underbelly but we expect the company to offer it in the production-spec model. Thanks to the revised front face, the TFT display has also been positioned much higher than normal. Apart from these, every other detail has been carried forward from the current 390 Adventure.
      Same Mechanical Setup
      Everything including the exposed trellis frame, side panels, split-style seating, suspension setup and braking hardware seems to be lifted off from the current 390 Adventure. Even the engine casing looks very familiar which means the same 373cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled will be plonked to the frame.
      2022 KTM 390 Adventure Rally Variant Spied
      In regular variants, this engine pumps out 43 bhp and 37 Nm of peak torque while being paired with a six-speed gearbox via a slipper and assist clutch. However, we expect the Austrian bikemaker to make some tweaks to this powertrain so that it offers a better lower-end grunt. This will further accentuate its off-roading credentials. The motorcycle will also boast certain creature comforts like a quick-shifter, cornering ABS and traction control.
      The aforementioned updates are expected to come with a significant premium over the standard model which is currently priced at Rs 3.28 lakh (ex-showroom). Going by the spy images, it appears as though the bike is still in its pre-production phase and there is still time for launch. More

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      TVS Jupiter Price Hike Dec 2021 – Prices Increased By Rs 600

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      TVS Jupiter Price Hike Dec 2021While there’s no official statement, latest round of price increase for TVS Jupiter is likely due to rising input costs
      TVS Jupiter is among the bestselling scooters in the country and the top selling product in the company’s portfolio. It primarily competes with Honda Activa 6G. Jupiter prices have been increased multiple times this year including in January, April, and August. In the latest round of price hike, all variants of Jupiter 110 have become costlier by around Rs 600.
      TVS Jupiter 110 new prices December 2021
      Base variant of Jupiter 110 is the one that comes with sheet metal wheel. It now costs Rs 66,273. Next is standard variant, which is now available at Rs 69,298. Moving up, prices of ZX (drum brake) and ZX (disc brake) have been increased to Rs 72,773 and Rs 76,573, respectively. Top-spec Classic variant is available at Rs 76,543.
      Jupiter 110 recent price hike doesn’t come as a surprise, as most two-wheeler manufacturers have increased prices across the range multiple times this year. In most cases, such price hikes were attributed to rising input costs.
      As may be recalled, global supply chain network has been severally impacted due to Covid-19 pandemic. As demand picked up again, there was significant shortage of auto components. This resulted in increased input costs for manufacturers.
      Jupiter 125 prices have not been changed
      Another reason for rising input costs is the transition to stricter fuel emission norms. This is being deployed at several locations across the globe. There’s increased demand for catalytic converters, a key component used to reduce emissions to mandated standards such as BS6 / Euro 5.
      TVS Jupiter 2021 Dec – No updates
      No changes have been introduced for Jupiter 110 with the latest round of price hike. With its simple, elegant design, the scooter is a perfect fit for everyday commutes and errands. Some key features include LED headlamp, classy front apron, sturdy metal body, large comfy seat, and thick grab rail. A total of eleven colour options are on offer, which vary based on the variant.
      The scooter is especially designed for optimal comfort and convenience. It has a large flat floorboard, which can be used to carry a wide variety of cargo such as groceries, bags, luggage items, cartons, etc.
      The scooter also offers decent amount of storage space under the seat. This space is more secure as it can be locked with the key. There’s storage space at front as well along with mobile charging port. Other key features include all-in-one lock, trendy speedometer, foldable rear-view mirrors, dual bag hooks, external fuel filling and an easy-to-use centre stand.
      TVS Jupiter 110 is powered by a 109.7 cc motor that generates 7.77 hp of max power at 7,500 rpm and 8.8 Nm of peak torque at 5,500 rpm. It is mated to a CVT automatic gearbox. The scooter has telescopic front suspension and 3-step adjustable coil spring with hydraulic damper at rear. In terms of safety, the scooter packs in features such as large alloy wheels, parking brake and pass-by switch. More

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      Royal Enfield 650 Vs New BSA Gold Star – Specs Compared

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      Modified RE 650 image for reference. Credit – Neev MotorcyclesBSA Gold Star derives inspiration from original 350cc/500cc Gold Star that was a popular choice in 40s-50s in UK
      As part of its plan to expand its global footprint, Classic Legends recently unveiled all-new Gold Star in UK. It is possible that the bike may be launched in India at a later date. BSA Gold Star will primarily rival Royal Enfield Interceptor 650. The latter has significant fan following, both in India and overseas markets.
      BSA has potential, as the brand is loved by many enthusiasts in European countries, especially UK. To understand how their rivalry may take shape, here’s a quick comparison between BSA Gold Star vs. Royal Enfield Interceptor 650.
      Royal Enfield 650 Vs New BSA Gold Star – styling and features
      Both bikes have retro styling with features such as round headlamp with chrome accents, round rear-view mirrors, circular instrument pods, wide handlebar and teardrop fuel tank. Metallic finish has been used on parts such as engine and exhaust. Both bikes use spoke wheels for enhanced retro feel.
      Overall, BSA Gold Star has proportionately higher focus of retro styling in comparison to Interceptor. For true-blue retro enthusiasts, BSA Gold Star could be the preferred option. Interceptor is relatively tilted towards a contemporary look and feel, which appeals to younger audiences.
      Royal Enfield 650 Twins Vs New BSA Gold Star
      In terms of comfort, both bikes have ergonomically placed handlebar and centrally placed footpegs. Gold Star could do slightly better, as it has wide and longer seat. At 780 mm, seat height of Gold Star is lower in comparison to 804 mm of Interceptor. As compared to upswept exhaust of Interceptor, Gold Star’s straight exhaust reveals its road-biased character.
      Gold Star vs. Interceptor 650 engine and specs
      In terms of performance, there’s not much difference between the two bikes. BSA Gold Star is powered by a 652cc motor that generates 45 bhp of max power at 6,000 rpm and 55 Nm of peak torque at 4,000 rpm. It is mated to a 5-speed transmission.
      Interceptor 650 has a 648cc parallel twin motor that makes 47 bhp at 7,150 rpm and 52 Nm at 5,250 rpm. It is mated to a constant mesh 6-speed transmission. An additional gear on Interceptor can allow the bike to perform better while cruising on wide open roads.
      New BSA Gold Star 650
      As there’s no significant difference in power and torque, users are unlikely to feel any major change in ride dynamics. Power to weight ratio should also be close, as there’s only 4kg difference in weight. Gold Star is lighter at 198 kg, as compared to 202 kg Interceptor.
      Suspension and braking configuration are quite similar. Both bikes have 41mm telescopic forks at front and twin rear shock absorbers with preload adjustability. 320 mm front disc is common whereas rear brakes are 255 mm on Gold Star and 240 mm on Interceptor. Dual-channel ABS is common as well.
      Gold Star has 18-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels, shod with Pirelli Phantom Sportscomp 100/90 and 150/70 tyres, respectively. Interceptor has 18-inch wheels at both ends, shod with Ceat Zoomcruz 100/90 and 130/70 tyres, respectively. More

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      2022 Honda 400cc Motorcycles CBR400R, CB400X Launched in Japan

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      2022 Honda CB400XBoth CBR400R and CB400X are unlikely to launch in India anytime soon but Honda could expand the CB500 range in India
      Honda has launched updated versions of its 400cc offerings- CBR400R and CB400X in Japan. The former is a fully-faired sports bike whereas the latter is an adventure tourer. Both motorcycles have received a significant makeover over their predecessor and made their global debuts at the 2021 Shanghai Auto Show in China earlier this year.
      CB400s from Honda have been very popular in Japan since riding anything above 400cc would require a person to obtain a special licence which is a complicated and expensive affair in the country. The updates incorporated in both the CB400s are in line with their 500cc counterparts.
      2022 Honda 400cc Motorcycles – CBR400R Updates
      More than fashion, the updates on these entry-level big bikes from Honda are functional as the Japanese auto giant has fitted both these motorcycles with improved hardware and more premium components. Starting with CBR400R, the biggest addition in the sports bike is the Showa SFF-BP upside-down forks up front. The separate big piston forks ensure a more pliant ride in order to improve the overall riding experience.
      Further, improvements have been made to the bike’s braking department as well. Instead of a single disc brake with an axially mounted calliper, Honda now offers CBR400R with dual discs at front. This has enhanced the bike’s safety and reduced the stopping distance by a fair margin.
      2022 Honda CB400R
      2022 Honda 400cc Motorcycles – CB400X Updates
      Coming to CB400X, the adventure tourer also receives its fair share of updates. The 2022 iteration of CB400X also features upside-down forks up front instead of conventional telescopic forks in the outgoing model. Additionally, the motorcycle now comes with dual disc brakes instead of a single disc brake at front. It continues to roll on 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels shod with dual-purpose tyres.
      In terms of styling, the adventure bike is almost identical to its predecessor. It carries forward signature AVD styling elements such as a tall windscreen, a sculpted fuel tank and front-heavy quarter-fairing. Like most other entry-level ADVs, CB400X remains a road-biased tourer despite the improvements.
      Engine Specs & Prices
      Powering both motorcycles is a common 399cc, liquid-cooled, parallel twin-cylinder engine which is mated to a six-speed gearbox via a slipper and assist clutch. Equipped with a 180-degree crank, this motor pushes out 45.4 bhp at 9,000rpm and 37 Nm of peak torque at 7500rpm.
      2022 CBR400R is available in three colour options- Grand Prix Red, Matte Ballistic Black Metallic, and Matte Jeans Blue Metallic and is offered at a price of JPY 841,500 (approx. INR 5.62 lakh). On the other hand, CB400X is available in two paint schemes namely Pearl Glare White and Matte Ballistic Black Metallic and is offered at a price of JPY 858,000 (approx. INR 5.78 lakh). More

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      Super Soco Electric Motorcycles TCMax, TS Street Hunter – New Colours

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      Super Soco Electric Motorcycle – TCMax New ColourVmoto Soco had unveiled multiple products at EICMA 2021 including electric scooters, motorcycles and fleet vehicles
      Currently focused on European and US markets, Vmoto Soco Group will eventually expand its footprint globally. The company has set ambitious plans to emerge as one of the leading brands in e-mobility. Towards that end, Vmoto Soco spent some busy days at 2021 EICMA, where a number of new electric vehicles were showcased.
      Two of these are Super Soco TS Street Hunter, which seeks inspiration from the naked streetfighter design format. The other one is TCMax retro motorcycle, the previous gen of which was spied in India with Revolt brand.
      2022 Super Soco Electric Motorcycles – styling and features
      Vmoto Soco’s TS range currently has TS and TS-X electric motorcycles. Overall styling of TS Street Hunter looks familiar to these motorcycles. Some key features include a quirky headlamp face, spear-shaped turn signals, wide handlebar, sculpted fuel tank, prominent side fairing, single-piece seat and trendy tail lamp.
      It is likely that TS Street Hunter will be borrowing several of its features from existing TS motorcycles. There could be slight variations or tweaks in line with the bike’s sportier profile. Things like an all-LED lighting setup and full-digital instrument console are apparent.
      Super Soco Electric Motorcycle – TCMax New Colour
      Instrument console used on TS 2021 displays a range of information such as battery status, real-time speed, odometer, full range, air temperature, clock and riding map. The screen has minimalistic black lettering against a light grey background, which should work well in terms of visibility in both bright and dark conditions. Any fancy stuff appears to have been intentionally avoided to save battery power.
      Another notable feature is racing-style side wings. These not only work to enhance the bike’s looks, but also ensure better cooling and improved stability at high speed. Like other TS bikes, TS Street Hunter could get ample storage space. This will make it more practical for everyday use.
      Super Soco TS Street Hunter powertrain
      Powering the bike is a 2500W high-performance wheel hub motor. Applicable torque is 180 Nm. Existing Super Soco TS motorcycle also has a 2500W hub motor, which could be the same as TS Street Hunter. However, things like range and top speed could be different on both bikes. Considering that TS Street Hunter will focus on performance, it will have a relatively higher top speed and lower range.
      Super Soco Electric Motorcycle – 2022 TS Street Hunter
      Super Soco TS has max range of 200km, when used with a dual battery setup at a speed of 25 kmph. Top speed is 75 kmph. Maximum load capacity is 150 kg. The bike utilizes a 60v 32 Ah lithium-ion battery pack. It can be charged from 0 to 100% in around 3 hours 30 minutes.
      Charging time will be more in case of dual-battery setup. Battery packs are located at a lower height, which improves the bike’s handling and balance. The battery system comes with features such as battery balancer, temperature protection and short circuit protection. It is likely that Super Soco TS Street Hunter will be equipped with connectivity platform. It could get features such as remote access, keyless start, and anti-theft alarm. More

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      Two Wheeler Retail Sales Nov 2021 – TVS, Hero Electric, Ather, Jawa, Yamaha

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      Image – The Bikers DiaryTwo wheeler retails have been seeing a steady fall due to skyrocketing fuel prices, dip in purchasing power and increased ownership costs
      As Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) releases Vehicle Retail Data for November 2021, de-growth can be seen across the two wheeler segment. Retail sales which had stood at 17,98,897 in November 2019 dipped 20.19 percent to 14,44,762 units in November 2020 and thereon down 0.75 percent to 14,33,855 units in the past month.
      Even as Hero MotoCorp and Honda saw sales dip YoY, electric two wheeler makers like Hero Electric, Okinawa, Ather, Ampere and PurEV saw a spurt in demand along with TVS, Piaggio, Classic Legends / Jawa.
      Two Wheeler Retail Sales November 2021 – Hero, Honda in the Lead
      Hero MotorCorp was at No.1 on this list. Retails dipped to 5,30,997 units in the past month, down from 5,34,880 units sold last year. Market share however, remained flat at 37.03 percent held in November 2021 from 37.02 percent share last Nov.
      At No. 2 was HMSI with sales of 3,66,340 units in November 2021, down from 3,91,776 units retailed last Nov. Market share also dipped to 25.55 percent last month, from 27.12 percent. Honda has just introduced a new addition to the Activa family. Activa 125 Premium Edition is priced at Rs 78,725 for Drum Alloy and Rs 82,280 for Disc variant.
      Two Wheeler Retail Sales Nov 2021 vs Nov 2020 (YoY) – FADA
      TVS Motors and Bajaj Auto have both posted a growth in retail sales last month along with increased market share. TVS retails increased to 2,13,274 units from 1,98,648 units with market share increasing from 13.75 percent to 14.87 percent YoY. Retail sales of Bajaj Auto Limited on the other hand, went up to 1,62,067 units from 1,55,642 units YoY while the Pune based automaker currently holds a market share of 11.30 percent in this segment. Retails of Suzuki, Yamaha Motors and Royal Enfield dipped YoY causing a dip in market share as well.
      Electric Two Wheeler Segment Nov 2021
      Two wheeler buyers in the country are showing more preference for electric vehicles. This is particularly evident as Hero Electric, Okinawa, Ather, Ampere and Pur Energy have seen significant increase in sales. Hero Electric sold a total of 7,021 units in the past month, up from 1,169 units retailed last Nov.
      Okinawa on the other hand saw its retails surge from 642 units to 5,367 units last month while Ather Energy sales went up to 2,198 units last month from just 360 units sold in Nov 2020. Ather Energy has also just inaugurated its second outlet in Gujarat and is currently present in 21 cities with 25 retail stores, to be expanded to 100 cities with 150 Experience Center by March 2023.
      Two Wheeler Retail Sales Nov 2021 vs Oct 2021 (MoM) – FADA
      Ampere Vehicles and PUR Energy also saw a significant increase in retails to 1,990 units and 1,685 units sold in November 2021 over 642 units and 168 units sold respectively in November 2020. The electric two wheeler segment will continue to see continued growth with more companies introducing new offerings as customers seek green mobility solutions. Subsidies offered by central and state governments, along with FAME II benefits also attracts the attention of two wheeler buyers.
      Electric vehicle startups like WardWizard Innovations and Mobility Ltd, Odysse Electric Vehicles Pvt Ltd and new players like Boom Motors have also entered the arena along with Matter, an electric vehicle and electric technology startup that has recently set up base in Ahmedabad. More

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      Top 10 Motorcycles 150cc To 200cc Oct 2021 – Apache, Pulsar, FZ, R15, MT15

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      New Yamaha MT15 with Bluetooth launch soonSales figures show worrying signs for Honda as two products in the 150cc-200cc category – Hornet 2.0 and XBlade have generated nil volumes
      Automotive sales are slowly gathering pace in the country after the crisis due to a shortage of semiconductor chips seems to be gradually easing out. However, sales volume is still way below pre-Covid levels and it will take some time for OEMs to achieve that level.
      In the 150cc-200cc category of motorcycles, a total of 1,27,415 units were dispatched to dealerships across the country in the month of October this year. In comparison, this figure stood at 90,821 units in September 2021 and 2,03,326 units in October 2020. This translated to an MoM growth of 40.29 percent and a YoY decline of 37.33 percent.
      Motorcycles 150cc To 200cc Oct 2021 – Apache, Pulsar Lead
      The sales chart was led by Apache brand of sporty commuter motorcycles from TVS which accumulated a volume of 39,799 units in October. During the same period last year, TVS sold 40,943 units of Apache bikes across the country which has resulted in a YoY drop of 2.79 percent. A similar MoM decline of 2.12 percent was recorded since sales volume in September this year stood at 40,661 units.
      Apache was followed by its closest nemesis Pulsar with a reported sales volume of 31,902 units in October this year. Earlier in September, Bajaj sold 14,785 units of Pulsar motorcycles which has resulted in an MoM growth of 115.77 percent. During October last year, Bajaj dispatched 65,332 units of Pulsar bikes which led to a 51.17 percent YoY decline.
      Motorcycle Sales 150cc to 200cc – Oct 2021 vs Oct 2020 (YoY)
      FZ, R15 pulling off decent numbers
      Yamaha sold 13,404 units of FZ in October this year as opposed to 4,550 units dispatched the previous month. It translated to an MoM growth of 194.59 percent whereas YoY growth declined by 33.53 percent which resulted in a drop of 6,760 units of sales volume from the previous month. In September 2021, Bajaj sold 17,117 units in October last year leading to an MoM growth of 115.77 percent.
      FZ was followed by its faired cousin R15 which recently received a generation upgrade. The baby sports bike generated a sales volume of 10,246 units in October which led to a MoM decline of 13.11 percent and a YoY growth of 63.70 percent. Honda broke into the list with Unicorn at the sixth spot. A volume of 7,077 units of the street naked motorcycle was dispatched in October.
      MT15, KTM 200, Xpulse witness growth
      While Unicorn recorded a massive MoM growth of 409 percent, it witnessed a sharp YoY fall of 75 percent. It was closely trailed by its rival from Hero MotoCorp- Xtreme 160R, with a recorded volume of 6,919 units last month. It recorded an MoM growth of 15.39 percent and a YoY decline of 44.56 percent.
      Motorcycle Sales 150cc to 200cc – Oct 2021 vs Sep 2021 (MoM)
      R15’s naked sibling MT15 also joined the list with 6,016 units sold in October. This led to YoY growth of 45.45 percent and 139.30 percent of MoM growth. The 200 range of KTM took the ninth spot with 4,696 units. Hero Xpulse 200 and Suzuki Gixxer completed the top ten list with respective sale volumes of 3,815 units and 2,775 units in October this year. More