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    New Yamaha 155cc Scooter For India – R15 Based NMax, Sniper?

    Yamaha Sniper. Image – XIII Tips N VlogIt is likely that Yamaha’s new 155cc scooter will be launched in India by Diwali 2021
    In 150cc-200cc segment, Yamaha currently has multiple bestsellers such as FZ, R15 and MT15. However, Yamaha’s scooter portfolio in India is limited to 125cc offerings such as Fascino and RayZR. Aiming to include more premium products in its portfolio, Yamaha is expected to introduce a new 155cc scooter later this year. Yamaha could choose from products available in international markets such as NMax 155, Sniper, etc. Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Bawla Kawlni for sharing this update.
    Yamaha Sniper 155
    This looks like a moped or it can also be described as a moto-scooter. Yamaha Sniper 155 has a sharp front fascia with dual-LED headlight and sleek turn indicators. Overall design appears to be inspired by Yamaha’s flagship YZF-R1.
    Other features that ensure a sporty profile for Sniper 155 include sharp fairing design, slightly upswept blacked-out exhaust, eye-catchy graphics, elevated tail section and body-coloured alloy wheels. Colour options for Sniper 155, as offered in international markets, include Matte Green, Yellow Hornet and Black Raven.
    Among features that make Sniper 155 unique include its absence of floorboard. It has footpegs, just like a standard motorcycle. The seating appears ergonomic and users can expect more comfort and ventilation for the thighs, as compared to riding a motorcycle.
    2021 Yamaha NVX Scooter
    Yamaha NMax 155
    Available in Asian markets such as Indonesia and Thailand, Yamaha NMax 155 maxi-scooter is a strong contender for the Indian market. Maxi-scooter segment is at a nascent stage in the country. However, this space could witness healthy growth in the coming years. Maxi-scooters like NMax 155 not only have a sporty, dominating road presence, but they also pack in utilitarian features.
    Yamaha NMax 155 has a beefy front fascia, trendy LED headlight, low mounted turn signals, and tinted visor. Side panels have a wavy design, which ensure a smooth, aerodynamic look and feel for the scooter.
    Other key features include sporty rear view mirrors, sloping seat, LED tail lamp and blacked-out upswept exhaust. Colour options for the scooter include Matte Blue, Maxi Signature Black and Prestige Silver. The set of colour options may be different for the Indian market.
    2021 Yamaha NMAX 155
    Engine options
    Both NMax and Sniper share the same 155cc VVA motor that is used with other products such as YZF R15, MT-15, XSR 155, Aerox 155 and NVX 155. However, exact power and torque output may be slightly different based on the product.
    On NMax, the engine churns out 15.4 bhp of max power at 8,000 rpm and 13.9 Nm of peak torque at 6,500 rpm. Transmission duties are performed by a standard V-belt CVT. Sniper 155 has rated power delivery of 17.7 bhp at 9,500 rpm and 14.4 Nm at 8,000 rpm. Engine is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. More

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    Royal Enfield Hunter 350 Spied Again – New Look Front And Rear

    Image – Fast Bikes India / InstagramRoyal Enfield is working on an all new motorcycle which will likely be styled as a scrambler
    After successful launch of Meteor 350, Royal Enfield will soon be introducing another new product in 350cc segment. It could be launched as ‘Hunter’, a name that was earlier registered by the company.
    Royal Enfield Hunter design
    Hunter does continue using the signature retro styling that Royal Enfield motorcycles are known for. That’s evident in features such as circular headlamp, round rear view mirrors and tear drop fuel tank.
    However, the rest of the design is quite different from the current breed of Royal Enfield motorcycles. Hunter is relatively compact and has some unique features such as stubby exhaust, sleek seat design and short tail. Hunter also has a lower seat design as compared to exiting Royal Enfield motorcycles.
    As some of these design aspects are entirely new for a Royal Enfield motorcycle, it has led to speculations that Hunter could be targeted at female bikers. Things like lower seat height and compact design would certainly be advantageous for female users. As the community of female bikers is on the rise in the country, the possibility of Royal Enfield launching a dedicated product for them could not be entirely denied.
    Royal Enfield Hunter 350
    Royal Enfield Hunter engine and specs
    To minimize development costs, Hunter will borrow key components from recently launched Meteor 350. It will have the new J series 349 cc, air-oil cooled motor that is capable of generating max power of 20.2 hp and peak toque of 27 Nm. The engine comes mated to a 5-speed gearbox. With an SOHC setup, the new engine is a lot smoother and responsive, as compared to its predecessor. Vibrations have also reduced significantly with the new engine.
    Hunter is expected to get Tripper navigation, a segment-first feature introduced with Meteor 350. It comprises a dedicated display screen that shows navigational directions for the destination. Tripper system works in combination with Royal Enfield app and Google Maps.
    Launch of Hunter and other new products is part of the company’s strategy to introduce a new model almost every three months for the next seven years. Royal Enfield dominates the 200cc – 500cc segment with a market share of more than 85%. These new models will help the company to maintain its supremacy and possibly boost sales even further.
    By expanding its product portfolio, Royal Enfield will be able to target a much larger customer base. It will also help the company to fend off competition from new products launched by rival two-wheeler manufacturers such as Honda, Jawa, and Benelli. With the cult-like following for its motorcycles, coupled with an extended range of new products and next-gen models, Royal Enfield is at an advantageous position to dominate this decade.
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    Komaki Electric Scooter For Seniors, Specially Abled Citizens – Sales Cross 1,000

    Komaki Electric Scooter XGT X5Komaki XGT X5 sales surpass the 1,000 units sales milestone
    Komaki has had a fruitful result in the last two quarters. This has been helped by nationwide expansion with multiple dealerships being introduced in northern and southern states of India. In H1 2021, Komaki reported total sales of 21,000 units. This indicates growth pace of the EV manufacturer.
    Komaki XGT X5, designed for elderly and the specially-abled is available with enhanced safety features. This includes mechanical parking. To date, 1000+ units of XGT X5 have been sold. This is testimony to the need for dedicated mobility options for those with specific needs.
    Komaki XGT X5 has ride range
    Available across all dealerships in India, and also available for booking online, Komaki XGT X5 is available on EMI. Colour choices include red and grey. On a single charge, XGT X5 has ride range of 80-90 kilometres.
    It’s compatible with both, VRLA gel batteries and lithium-ion batteries. Standard features include regenerative braking systems for enhanced safety, and a repair switch to fix issues identified during self-diagnosis. This enables rides to safely reach their destination.
    Komaki Electric Scooter XGT X5
    “As a leading Electric Vehicle manufacturer, we feel that it is our responsibility to serve the people of this country without leaving anyone behind. We stand by our vision of creating a clean and green India as we embark upon newer journeys to delight our customers. We believe in investing in the happiness of the people, knowing they will continue to support us wherever we set our foot”, says Gunjan Malhotra, Director, Komaki Electric Vehicle Division.
    Expanding dealer network
    With the impact of its EV strategy already visible, it’s fair to say the company is leveraging strengths, and yielding good results. Sales from an increasing number of outlets has been a major contributor to overall retail sales visibly improving in recent months.
    As growth opened its doors to a new set of customers, it was expected that the dealerships would have to go through considerable growth in skill set along with incremental labuor costs. However, it was found that an increasing number of dealers are entering the foray to enhance the EV dealership network.
    The company’s plan for the Indian market is to focus on building more quality automobiles, and increasing the its dealership and service network. No doubt, Komaki will also work on improving software features for better conveniences.
    Komaki is not just focusing on developing technologically advanced products but also making them economically viable through an aggressive cost optimization exercise. With the growing adoption of EVs, the manufacturer is turning to its R&D capabilities in motors and power electronics to develop a portfolio of products that is wide ranging and doesn’t leave anyone behind. More

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    Two Wheeler Sales July 2021 – Hero, Honda, TVS, Bajaj, Suzuki, Royal Enfield

    Bajaj PulsarDespite being the only company to report de-growth, Hero MotoCorp once again topped the list commanding a 35.75 percent share in domestic markets
    Sales reports for July 2021 have shown growth across all segments. While sales of passenger vehicles increased significantly, two wheeler segment has seen marginal growth of 0.97 percent YoY. Taking into account the leading 6 two wheeler makers in India, total two wheeler sales stood at 12,00,621 units in July 2021, up from 11,89,106 units sold in July 2020. MoM sales saw more improvement at 16.76 percent growth from 10,28,302 units sold in June 2021.
    Hero And Honda Top 2
    Hero MotoCorp once again ruled this segment despite de-growth reported in a YoY and MoM basis. Hero commands a 35.75 percent market share with 4,29,208 units sold in the past month, down 16.26 percent as against 5,12,541 units sold in July 2020. MoM sales decline stood at 2.12 percent as compared to 4,38,514 units sold in June 2021. Decline was seen both in the case of scooters and motorcycles. Last month, Hero MotoCorp also introduced two new products – Glamour Xtec and ‘Connected’ Maestro Edge 125.
    Honda sales increased 9.96 percent YoY and 60.10 percent on a MoM basis. Sales in July 2020 which had stood at 3,09,332 units, increased to 3,40,133 units in July 2021 while in June 2021 sales had been at 2,12,446 units. Honda sales mainly comprised of the Activa, CB Shine and Dio. Last month, the company has also commenced deliveries of CB650R and CBR650R, launched in India in March 2021.
    At No.3 on the list was TVS Motor Co with 1,75,169 units sold in July 2021, up 20.46 percent over 1,45,413 units sold in July 2020. Bajaj Auto has reported flat sales in July 2021 which stood at 1,56,232 units, just a 2.46 percent increase over 1,52,474 units sold in July 2020 while MoM sales increased 0.38 percent over 1,55,640 units sold in June 2021. Among the company lineup, it was the Pulsar, Avenger, Dominar, CT100 and Platina that noted most demand.
    Two Wheeler Sales July 2021
    Suzuki and Royal Enfield
    Suzuki Motorcycle India has reported the highest YoY and MoM sales growth. Sales in July 2021 increased 92.83 percent to 60,589 units, up from 31,421 units sold in July 2020. MoM sales increased 49.70 percent from 40,474 units sold in June 2021. Suzuki Hayabusa, V-Strom 650 XT, Gixxer series along with Intruder, Access 125 and Burgman Street are among the popular models currently sold in Indian markets.
    Royal Enfield sales in July 2021 increased 3.60 percent YoY to 39,290 units over 37,925 units sold in July 2020. MoM sales improved 9.70 percent over 35,815 units sold in June 2021.
    Two Wheeler Exports
    Two wheeler exports surged significantly on a YoY basis. Exports of the leading 6 two wheeler makers in India increased 71.46 percent to 3,49,728 units in July 2021, up from 2,03,975 units exported in July 2020. MoM exports also increased 14.19 percent from 3,06,267 units shipped in June 2021.
    Two Wheeler Exports July 2021
    In terms of exports, it was Bajaj Auto Limited that ruled the list with a 49.85 percent share. Total exports stood at 1,74,337 units in the past month, up 102.52 percent from 86,082 units exported in July 2020. MoM exports increased 12.52 percent from 1,54,938 units shipped in June 2021.
    TVS Motor Co suffered de-growth in exports both on a YoY and MoM basis, down 5.52 percent to 87,559 units in July 2021, over 92,679 units exported in July 2020. Honda exports however, surged 270.58 percent to 4,400 units in July 2021 over 12,251 units shipped in July 2020 while MoM exports also increased 110.35 percent over 21,583 units of June 2021.
    Hero MotoCorp has just opened exports in markets of Mexico with models such as the Xpulse 200, Xpulse 200T, Hunk 190, Hunk 160R, Hunk 150, Eco 150 TR, Eco 150 Cargo, and Ignitor 125, along with the Dash 125 scooter. Total exports for July 2021 stood at 25,190 units, up 233.07 percent over 7,563 units shipped in July 2020. MoM exports grew 22.01 percent over 20,646 units exported in June 2021.
    Suzuki and Royal Enfield exports increased 317.72 percent and 97.09 percent on a YoY basis respectively. However, while Suzuki exports increased 5.98 percent MoM that of Royal Enfield dipped 34.36 percent. More

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    Sub 200cc Kawasaki Motorcycle Spied In Pune – Launch Expected This Year

    Kawasaki W15 Spied In Pune by Navin SanilWhile Kawasaki hasn’t released an official timeline for the launch of W175, sources suggest launch to take place around the festive season
    Late last year, it was reported that Kawasaki will be bringing a new entry-level motorcycle to India in the form of W175. A few weeks later, test mules of the retro-style classic motorcycle were spotted testing on the country roads. Since then, there has been no development regarding the launch of W175.
    However, a testing prototype of W175 fully wrapped under camouflage got caught on camera in Pune. Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Navin Sanil for sharing these spy shots. From the looks of it, the bike appeared to be an almost production-ready prototype with all its traditional design elements.
    Retro Styling
    Speaking of its design, the sub 200cc Kawasaki motorcycle carries a modern approach to retro styling with notable highlights such as round headlamps, teardrop-shaped fuel tank, single-piece seat with a ribbed pattern, wire-spoked wheels, a single-pod round instrument cluster and circular rearview mirrors. The side-on exhaust with a thin nozzle-head muffler must produce a lovely throaty note.
    The handlebar, seat and footpegs put the rider in a natural position, contributing to rider comfort and making W175 ideal for a wide range of riding conditions. It is offered with a conventional round analogue instrument cluster with a “W” emblem inside.
    Kawasaki W15 Spied In Pune
    The console reads out information from the trip meter, speedometer and odometer. At rear, it features a squared-off taillight with similar round turn indicators as spotted in front.
    Engine and other mechanical parts such as swingarm, suspension setup, leg guard and exhaust have been painted in black which lends the bike a sporty appeal. Also giving it a retro vibe are fork gaiters in the front suspension unit. The India-spec model also gets a conventional single-piece grab rail which is not offered in the model retailed in international markets.
    Mechanical Specs
    The bike is powered by a 177cc air-Cooled, single-cylinder engine that kicks out 13.05 bhp at 7500rpm and a peak torque of 13.2 Nm at 6000rpm and is paired with a 5-speed gearbox. While output figures are very modest, a low kerb weight of just 126 kilos should offer a decent enough performance. Hardware comprises telescopic forks at front and twin gas-charged shock absorbers at rear.
    Kawasaki W15 Spied In Pune
    Braking duties are handled by a single front disc and rear drum brake. If and when launched in India, W175 is expected to be more than 90 percent localised which will help the Japanese bikemaker price it aggressively. At the time of launch, it could carry a sticker price of Rs 1.50 lakh (ex-showroom). More

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    Bajaj Dominar New Colour Options – Yellow, Orange, Black

    2021 Bajaj Dominar 250 New Colour – Citrus Rush / Matte SilverBajaj Dominar 250 competes against the likes of Suzuki Gixxer 250, Yamaha FZS 25 and KTM 250 Duke
    After introducing new colour schemes across the Pulsar range of motorcycles, Bajaj Auto has now decided to update its quarter-litre tourer with some new shades. The bikemaker has launched three new colour options to Dominar 250 to make it more attractive. All the new colour options are offered as dual-tone paint schemes.
    New Colour Options on Dominar 250
    From the look of the leaked images, these new colours look like shades of Orange, Yellow and Black. But they have specific names in Bajaj speak. These include Citrus Rush and Matte Silver; Sparkling Black and Matte Silver; and Racing Red and Matte Silver.
    The new colour options join the existing options namely Charcoal Black and Canyon Red. Sales have been particularly slow for Dominar 250 in recent months which is why Bajaj has introduced these new colour options to the lineup to grab the attention of bike enthusiasts.
    This comes almost a month later after the Chakan-based two-wheeler manufacturer decreased prices of the quarter-litre touring motorcycle by up to Rs 17k. The new prices of the bike start at Rs 1.54 lakh instead of the earlier 1.71 lakh (both prices ex-showroom).
    2021 Bajaj Dominar 250 New Colour
    More Details
    Noticeably all these three colour options offer white-coloured alloy wheels in a similar fashion to Pulsar NS 160, NS 200 and RS 200. Further, design of the alloy wheels remains identical to the existing finish in the quarter-litre motorcycle. These alloy wheel designs were also carried forward to the recently introduced Pulsar NS125.
    In addition, the matte silver paint is found common to all three colour options introduced in Dominar 250. Matte silver paint acts as the base colour whereas the contrast accents are subjected to the shades chosen.
    The contrasting shades of red, black or fluorescent green are found painted on the alloy wheel rims, engine cowl, front and rear fender, headlamp cowl and fuel tank. Prices of the updated Dominar 250 wrapped in these new paint schemes have not been declared. However, we expect a slight increase in prices just as the Dagger Edge Edition of Pulsar range.
    2021 Bajaj Dominar 250 New Colour
    Same Specs
    No changes to specifications or features have been made in this new iteration of Dominar 250. It is powered by a single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC, four-valve engine that pumps out 26.6 bhp at 8,500rpm and a peak torque of 23.5Nm at 6,500rpm. This unit is paired with a six-speed gearbox and features a slipper clutch system.
    Hardware configuration comprises upside-down telescopic forks at and a mono-shock at rear. Anchoring duties are handled by disc brakes on both wheels assisted by a dual-channel ABS. More

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    All Electric Two Wheelers, EV Car Buyers Exempted From RC Fees

    Bajaj Chetak Electric ScooterExemption announced from RC issue costs for all electric cars, scooters, motorcycles – Basically all battery operated vehicles
    Ministry of Road Transport & Highway’s (MoRTH) notification dated August 03, 2021 focuses on an all important amended. Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989 has been amended to waive off registration charges for electric vehicles. For now, policies catering to boost demand for EVs is pretty much a tree that doesn’t stop giving.
    Following incentives, and subsidies, doing away with registration costs is not just convenient but does translate to a direct financial benefit. Put together, buyers can now enjoy a quantum of benefits. GST on EVs too is a benefit at 5 percent.
    The announcement will see many take this opportunity to save money that would otherwise be spent on e-vehicle registration. Electric two wheeler makers welcome central government’s decision to waive off registration charges for electric two wheelers. The decision is expected to give boost in sale of two-wheeler in the country.
    In the larger picture, the move is also expected to reduce congestion on roads due to toxic emission from vehicles. With these changes, no registration fee is required to be paid for a large variety of battery operated vehicles. The decision helps in promoting sales of electric vehicles in the country.
    Tata Nexon Electric
    Electric vehicles sales roadmap in India
    It’s very much obvious that market situations are now in a much better condition to lay the groundwork for robust EV industry growth. The number of players that have entered the market continues to be encouraging. While electric vehicles have been part of discussions, it’s only in recent months that decision making bodies are aggressively pushing Electric Vehicles (EVs) through revised subsidies and tax exemptions.
    For long one has had to gauge policies that consistently failed to make EVs sell. With an absolute need to follow global targets of pollution and emission reduction, the government has seemingly become more supportive of EV manufacturers.
    Growth expected for EVs
    Ever since the introduction of e-bikes, manufacturers haven’t exactly benefitted from the new tech that’s available. Despite all the markings of a big space for development, there were no takers when it came to buying. It’s only very recently that electric two-wheeler manufacturers have been able to increase their production volume meaningfully.
    In order to meet the increasing demands and market penetration, companies too need to make longterm investments for production, research and development. And this isn’t conducive on the back of weak policies. Now electric bike manufacturers are hoping that this demand will continue grow, so that they can make more money out of it, and see a return on their investment as well. More

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    KTM 390 Duke, RC And Adventure New Batch With Metzeler Tyres

    KTM 390 ADV with MetzelerKTM had switched to MRF tyres last year for 390s due to new import restrictions
    It was during the festive season last year that KTM had introduced new colour themes for several of its popular motorcycles. Along with that, the company had also replaced Metzelers with MRF tyres for 390 Duke, RC 390 and 390 Adventure. While Duke and RC received MRF Revz C1 tyres, Adventure was fitted with MRF Mogrip Meteor tyres. These tyres are offered with lower capacity KTM bikes in 125cc, 200cc and 250cc range.
    Only A Few
    Even though Metzelers are back on KTM 390s, the company has chosen not to increase prices. The strategy was similar last year when prices were left untouched upon replacement of Metzelers with MRF tyres.
    However, KTM has increased prices of its motorcycle multiple times this year. The most recent was last month in July when prices were increased by up to Rs 11,685. While 390 Duke and RC 390 had become costlier by Rs 11,620, 390 Adv witnessed a hike of Rs 11,685. In percentage terms, the highest price hike was for 125 Duke. Most such price hikes have been attributed to rising input cost and high market inflation.
    It is possible that KTM may revise rates once again in the coming months. Even though it may not be attributed to a change of tyres, the increased pricing may cover for any loss that may occur due to replacement of MRFs with Metzelers.
    KTM 390 ADV with Metzeler
    Next-gen RC range spotted
    In international markets, next-gen KTM RC motorcycles have been spotted wearing Continental ContiRoad sport touring tyres. It is not certain if the same tyres will be used in India as well. Based on prevailing conditions, it is likely that KTM will continue using Metzeler tyres for its 390s.
    Using imported tyres for vehicles in India has become difficult with the change in import policy for certain types of pneumatic tyres. Amendments have been made to change this import sector from ‘free’ to ‘restricted’. This was done largely to curb dumping of cheap tyres, most of which came from China.
    However, this change in import policy has also impacted premium tyres including Metzeler. Importers are essentially required to get a new license that limits the total volume that can be imported.
    Government is aiming to promote made in India, which has created problems for tyre brands that do not have local manufacturing operations. Businesses that were purely importers have had to limit their operations due to the new restrictions. In comparison, global brands that have local manufacturing remain unaffected. More