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    Two Wheeler Retail Sales Sep 2021 – Honda, Bajaj, RE, Jawa, Hero Electric, Ather

    Two Wheeler Retail Sales Sep 2021FADA has requested all two-wheeler manufacturers to introduce special schemes for customers especially in the entry-level (up to 125cc) segment
    Two-wheeler segment in the Indian auto industry unlike other segments has witnessed a YoY decline in sales. In comparison to 10,33,895 two-wheelers sold in September last year, only 9,14,621 units were sold during September this year. This resulted in a YoY decline of 11.54 percent.
    FADA has stated that the slow growth in sales could be attributed to skyrocketing fuel prices and drop in purchasing power. Consumers, especially for the entry-level segment in rural India, are keeping themselves away from fulfilling their mobility needs. It has led to a decline in sales volume in the entry-level segment of two-wheelers as well.
    Slow growth in entry-level segment
    This segment’s performance is now becoming critical for the overall two-wheeler to come back on the path of recovery. Moreover, semiconductor chip shortage has also started impacting the 150+ cc segment of motorcycles. However, the good thing to note is that dealership inventories have risen up to 30-35 days as dealers are pinning their hopes on a fruitful festive season.
    In the first half of the current fiscal FY2021 (April – Sept 2021), a total of 52,31,441 two-wheelers have been dispatched by OEMs across the country. During the same period last year, a total of 41,12,656 units were sold which has resulted in YoY growth of 27.20 percent. This is because during the same period last month, the country was severely reeling from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic which had adversely affected every industry.
    Two Wheeler Retail Sales Sep 2021 vs Sep 2020 (YoY) – FADA
    Two Wheeler Retail Sales Sep 2021 – Hero, Honda Lead
    The biggest contributors to two-wheeler sales volume in September 2021 were Hero MotoCorp, Honda, TVS Motor and Bajaj Auto. While Hero generated a sales volume of 2,75,882 units last month, Honda stood at the second spot with 2,40,527 units.

    Two-Wheeler OEM
    SEP’21
    SEP’20

    1. Hero
    2,75,882
    3,47,504

    2. Honda
    2,40,527
    2,65,615

    3. TVS
    1,40,549
    1,59,239

    4. Bajaj
    1,16,252
    1,23,742

    5. Suzuki
    45,617
    41,420

    6. Yamaha
    40,044
    44,919

    7. Royal Enfield
    32,913
    42,489

    8. Hero Electric
    6,289
    993

    9. Vespa / Aprilia
    3,729
    3,442

    10. Okinawa
    3,264
    552

    11. Jawa
    2,390
    2,194

    12. Ather
    2,161
    265

    13. PURE EV
    1,337
    104

    Others
    3,667
    1,417

    Total
    9,14,621
    10,33,895

    TVS registered a monthly volume of 1,40,549 units whereas Bajaj dispatched 1,16,252 units to dealerships across the country last month. Japanese bikemakers Suzuki and Yamaha occupied the fifth and sixth spots with 45,617 units and 40,044 units sold respectively. Royal Enfield dispatched 32,913 bikes last month.
    Electric two-wheeler manufacturers such as Hero Electric and Okinawa also marked their presence with a sizeable sales volume of 6,289 units and 3,264 units. Both brands have shown significant YoY growth from 993 units and 552 units registered in September last year respectively.
    Two Wheeler Retail Sales Sep 2021 vs Aug 2021 (MoM) – FADA
    Road ahead for OEMs
    While there are plenty of challenges to be faced by OEMs in the coming months, there are some positives that come as a relief. The vaccination program has gained momentum in the last few months which has negated the chances of a speculated third wave of Covid infections in near future.
    Further, with offices and educational institutions opening up in a phased manner, a marginal recovery process to begin in the two-wheeler space is anticipated. Hence, FADA has requested all two-wheeler OEMs to roll out special promotions schemes so that it can springboard two-wheeler retails for a faster recovery. More

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    New Hero Xtreme 160R Stealth Edition Teased Ahead Of Launch

    New Hero Xtreme 160 Stealth EditionUpon its launch, Stealth Edition of Hero Xtreme 160R is likely to be priced at a premium of Rs 5,000 over the top-spec variant of the standard model
    Hero MotoCorp is planning to launch a raft of new products in the coming days. The company has already introduced the new Xpulse 200 4V which comes with a more powerful engine at a slightly higher price. The bikemaker has now teased the upcoming Stealth Edition of Xtreme 160R on its social media channels.
    The Stealth Edition is most likely to be an aesthetically enhanced variant of the standard Xtreme 160R and sits on top of the range. That said, it is expected to be offered with same specifications as the regular variants. The short teaser video shows a human face with a pair of eyes that transform into a pair of LED position lights.
    New Hero Xtreme 160R Stealth Edition – Updated Styling
    LED DRLs are flanked on each side of the V-shaped LED headlamp which gives it a menacing look upfront. The primary difference between the standard model and Stealth Edition is that the latter will be wrapped around by a dark colour scheme with a Matte finish.
    In the spy shots leaked earlier, the motorcycle was seen wearing black paint with touches of blue on its tail section and headlamp cowl. Take a look at the new teaser video of new Hero Xtreme 160R – Go Boom.
    [embedded content]
    The updated naked streetfighter will be riding on black alloy wheels while rims will be coloured red to give it a sporty contrast. A few touches of gloss finishes will also be present which will lend the bike an overall premium appeal. Apart from this, styling of the Stealth Edition is exactly same as the standard Xtreme 160R with highlights such as a raised tail section, single-piece seat, split grab rails and a muscular fuel tank.
    Features on offer
    In terms of features, Xtreme 160R offers an all-LED lighting setup, a side stand engine cut off switch, an inverted LCD console and hazard lights. It also gets an Auto Sail technology which allows the bike to easily glide in traffic at low speeds. It is yet to be seen if it will be equipped with Hero Connect telematics which offers various connectivity features to the rider such as in-built navigation, last location, etc.
    Mechanical Specs
    Coming to hardware specifications, Stealth Edition of Xtreme 160R will be suspended on 37mm telescopic forks upfront sourced from Showa and a mono-shock at rear. Braking duties will be handled by disc brakes at both ends which will be complemented by a single-channel ABS. It will be riding on 17-inch front and rear wheels, the latter shod with a radial tyre.
    Powering the Stealth Edition will be the same 163cc, single-cylinder two-valve engine that powers the standard model. This motor is coupled with a 5-speed gearbox and will push out 15 bhp at 8,500rpm and 14 Nm of peak torque at 6,500rpm. While output figures aren’t exactly class-leading, it has one of the best power to weight ratios in the segment at a kerb weight of 139.5kg. More

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    TVS Apache 160 4V Gets Ride Modes, New LED – Pulsar NS160 Rival

    2021 TVS Apache 160 4V – Ride Modes, BluetoothAfter a string of successful launches, TVS has now launched an updated Apache RTR 160 4V with new features
    TVS Motor Company in the recent past has launched multiple new and updated products which include Raider, Jupiter 125 and a new variant of Apache RR 310. It has now launched an updated Apache RTR 160 4V with new features onboard. The naked streetfighter gets a new headlamp assembly along with new LED DRLs.
    Apache 160 Ride Modes – It also gets three new riding modes namely Urban, Sport, and Rain. The updated Apache 160 4V also gets a gear shift indicator and radial rear tyre. Prices start from Rs 1.15 lakh for the base 160 4V model with read drum brake.
    2021 TVS Apache 160 4V – Price list Oct 2021
    The Hosur-based bikemaker has also introduced a range-topping Special Edition of RTR 160 4V at a price of Rs 1.21 lakh (ex-showroom). Its primary rival, Bajaj Pulsar NS160 is priced at Rs 1.16 lakh, ex-sh.
    New Special Edition
    The Special Edition model comes with an exclusive Matte Black paint scheme complemented with red highlights for sporty touches. The all-black theme with red alloy wheels accentuates the bike’s sportiness. In addition, the top-spec trim also comes with an updated instrument console which is equipped with TVS SmartXonnect Bluetooth connectivity system that offers a wide range of features.
    2021 TVS Apache 160 4V – Ride Modes, Bluetooth
    The standard range of Apache RTR 160 4V is offered in three variants- Drum, Single Disc and Rear Disc which are priced between Rs 1.15 lakh and Rs 1.20 lakh (ex-showroom). These variants are offered in three colour options- Racing Red, Metallic Blue, and Knight Black.
    Along with all these updates mentioned above, the naked streetfighter gets a new seat pattern across the range while the Special Edition model gets adjustable clutch and brake levers as well.
    Mechanical Updates
    It should be noted that TVS introduced a crucial update to Apache RTR160 4V earlier this year when it got a more powerful engine. The 159.7cc, single-cylinder engine now produces 17.39 bhp and a peak torque of 14.73 Nm while being paired with a 5-speed gearbox. Suspension duties are handled by telescopic forks at front and a mono-shock at rear.
    2021 TVS Apache 160 4V – Ride Modes, Bluetooth
    Braking hardware comprises drum brakes as standard on both ends with the option of a single front disc or a front and rear discs. The disc brake variants are offered a single-channel ABS as standard. Other recent additions to the feature list include GTT (Glide Through Traffic) for a smooth low-speed ride, a one-touch start and a wave bite ignition key.
    Apache RTR 160 4V has a fuel tank capacity of 12 liters. The motorcycle competes against the likes of Bajaj Pulsar NS160, Hero Xtreme 160, Honda XBlade 160 and Yamaha MT15. More

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    Hero Xpulse 200 4V Launch Price Rs 1.28 L – New LEDs, More Power

    2021 Hero Xpulse 200 4VHero Xpulse 200 is the most affordable entry-level adventure-ready bike of its kind in the country
    Largely unchallenged in 200cc ADV segment, Xpulse has contributed consistent sales numbers for Hero MotoCorp. To improve its prospects further, a 4V version has been launched today, just ahead of the festive season. Price starts from Rs Rs 1,28,150, ex-Delhi.
    The primary change will be a 4-valve engine, as compared to 2-valve setup of existing model. Xpulse 200 4V will be better equipped to handle competition from new rivals such as Honda CB200X. The latter was launched in August at a competitive price point of Rs 1.44 lakh.
    Performance boost
    Hero Xpulse 200 4V will primarily target improved performance. Even though 4-valve engines can be costlier to manufacture, they provide a range of benefits. 4-valve system ensures improved air flow to the engine, which allows the fuel to burn more efficiently.
    As they have less mass and are lighter, smaller valves are able to move more freely in comparison to a larger single valve. This allows the engine to run on higher RPM, thereby extracting more power. More efficient fuel combustion also translates into reduced emissions.
    2021 Hero Xpulse 200 4V
    As per Hero MotoCorp, the new Xpulse 200 4v delivers 6% more power and 5% added torque – compared to the existing Xpulse 200. The new Xpulse 4 Valve oil cooled engine produces a power output of 19.1 PS @ at 8500 RPM and torque of 17.35 Nm @ 6500rpm. It is mated to a 5-speed constant mesh transmission.
    Another benefit of having more valves is that they reduce the pressure on camshaft lobes. Provided that the engine is well-engineered, a 4-valve setup can enhance the engine’s durability. With a 4-valve setup, it becomes easier to install the spark plug at the centre of the cylinder head. This allows better propagation of spark, resulting in more efficient combustion.
    Another benefit is that a 4-valve system keeps the cylinder head cooler. The engine can thus perform efficiently for longer durations without heating up. This will make Xpulse 200 4V better prepared for long-distance rides on highways.
    2021 Hero Xpulse 200 4V
    Hero Xpulse 200 4V style updates
    Along with an updated oil cooling system, the new Xpulse 200 4V comes with improved seat profile and upgraded LED headlights. To differentiate it from the current model, Hero Xpulse 200 4V will get 3 new colour options of Trail Blue, Blitz Blue, and Red Raid. The current model is available in colour options of White, Matte Green, Matte Grey, Sports Red and Panther Black. Graphics have also been revised, which now look more refined. 4Valve highlighting can be seen on the fuel tank.
    Most other features and equipment will be the same as that of the current model. Some of the distinguishable features of Hero Xpulse 200 include its raised front fender, circular headlamp, spear-shaped turn indicators, knuckle guards, decent sized windscreen, sculpted fuel tank, engine guard, and upswept exhaust. While the current model has its engine blacked-out, the one on Xpulse 200 4V comes in its original metallic shade.
    Xpulse 200 utilizes a tubular diamond frame with telescopic front forks and monoshock rear suspension. It runs on dual-purpose 90/90-21 front and 120/80-18 rear tyres. It has 276 mm and 220 mm petal disc at front and rear, respectively. Single-channel ABS is offered as standard. Rally Kit will continue to be on offer with the Xpulse 4V. More

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    TVS Jupiter 125cc Launch Price Rs 73.4k – Honda Activa Rival

    New TVS Jupiter 125TVS Jupiter 125 rivals a host of the 125cc scooters in the market such as Honda Activa 125, Hero Destini 125, Yamaha Fascino and Suzuki Access
    First launched in Sep 2013, TVS Jupiter has managed to generate sales of over 45 lakh till date. It is among the best selling scooter on sale in India since its launch. Until now, it was only offered with a 110cc engine option. Today, TVS Motor has launched Jupiter 125cc option.
    TVS has launched a 125cc iteration of Jupiter that has been priced at Rs 73,400 ex-sh. This is about the same starting price as rival Honda Activa 125, which is priced from Rs 73,200 to Rs 80k. All prices are ex-sh.
    Prior to this launch, Jupiter was available as a 110cc scooter and has been the brand’s highest-selling two-wheeler for a long time. With the launch of Jupiter 125, it joins a long list of 125cc scooters such as Honda Activa 125, Suzuki Access and others.
    Last month, TVS marked its re-entry into the 125cc segment of motorcycles with the launch of Raider which has generally received positive reviews. Earlier, the company also shared a couple of teasers of the new Jupiter 125 which had nothing significant to reveal barring a pair of LED DRLs.
    [embedded content]
    Styling
    Speaking of its design, the new 125cc Jupiter is almost identical to its 110cc sibling except for a few subtle variations. The most prominent are reshaped turn indicators mounted on the front apron.
    Complemented by new, sharper LED DRLs, front face of the scooter looks more aggressive in this iteration. It boasts signature commuter scooter styling elements such as a single-piece saddle with a grab rail for pillion, alloy wheels and headlamp clusters on the handlebar.
    Features on offer
    For further differentiation, TVS will be offering some new colour schemes with its latest offering. In addition, new features such as a digital instrument console with Bluetooth connectivity could be added to the equipment of Jupiter 125. TVS is also expected to launch a top-spec trim of Jupiter 125 that will be offered with TVS Smart Xonnect connectivity platform which offers around 60 connectivity features.
    New TVS Jupiter 125
    Some of the features offered by Xonnect connectivity suite include SMS/call alerts, last parking location, real-time mileage indicator, onboard navigation and lots more. Other features on offer are LED headlight and taillight, USB charger and external fuel filler cap in front, etc.
    Specifications
    Jupiter 125 will draw its power from the same 124.8cc, 3-valve single-cylinder engine that is offered in Ntorq. However, unlike Ntorq, Jupiter 125 is offered with an ETFI (Eco Thrust Fuel injector) instead of an RTFI for better fuel efficiency. TVS claims that Jupiter 125 is the most powerful and fuel efficient scooter in the segment. It has the quickest acceleration as well.
    New TVS Jupiter 125
    Suspension duties on Jupiter 125 are taken care of by telescopic forks up front and coil springs with hydraulic dampers at rear. Braking hardware comprises drum brakes as standard at both ends with the option of a disc brake at front. The braking setup is paired with a synchronized braking system for better handling on the roads. More

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    New Electric Motorcycle With Yamaha RX100 Inspired Styling – Debuts

    New RGNT Electric MotorcycleSwedish electric bikemaker RGNT has launched an updated RGNT No.1 Classic with a set of critical updates
    RGNT, an electric two-wheeler manufacturer from Sweden, has launched an updated retro electric motorcycle in Europe. Called ‘RGNT No.1 Classic’ in its previous iteration, this retro-style modern classic has been upgraded to 1.5 in its nomenclature. It has been priced at 12,495 Euros which is equivalent to INR 10.79 lakh.
    Even for a battery-powered two-wheeler, the bike commands a huge premium in terms of pricing. This is because the entire motorcycle is hand-built at its production facility in Kungsbacka, Sweden. Originally launched in 2020, the motorcycle has already been running in the markets of Europe and the USA.
    Similar Design
    The No.1 Classic looks like a pure retro motorcycle back from the 20th century but with modern amenities and an emission-free powertrain. In the latest iteration, the electric bike receives a few mechanical upgrades over the outgoing model but retains its signature retro styling. This comprises a round headlamp, a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, a single-piece bench seat and classic spoke wheels.
    In a way, it reminds us of a very popular retro motorcycle in India- Yamaha RX100. However, it packs some modern amenities in its armoury which include a 7-inch touchscreen instrument cluster that is enabled with GPS-based navigation. The system receives a new Bike Control Unit (BCU) which enables over-the-air (OTA) updates. It also gets full LED illumination.
    New RGNT Electric Motorcycle
    Specifications
    Underneath the skin, the motorcycle undergoes some crucial updates. For starters, it is powered by a new 9 kW electric motor with a peak power output of 11 kW (14.7 bhp). The new motor uses higher-quality windings in order to reduce heat by as much as 30 percent which allows the motor to run more efficiently and ensures less battery energy wastage due to heat dissipation.
    The electric motor derives its energy from a 7.7 kWh lithium-ion battery pack which offers a range of 110 kms on highway and 160 kms in city on a single charge. The bike can reach a top speed of 125 kmph.
    Not only the bike’s powertrain but also its riding dynamics have been updated. For instance, the front telescopic forks have been updated for better reliability and shock-absorbing characteristics.
    Braking hardware now consists of rotors from Galfer and calipers from J.Juan. It is complemented by a Combined Braking System (CBS) for added safety. RGNT also offers a scrambler version of the same motorcycle with slightly different attire. Chances of this motorcycle reaching Indian shores are very slim. More

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    New Bajaj Pulsar 250cc Motorcycles Spied Together – Launch Next Month

    New Bajaj Pulsar 250cc MotorcyclesUpcoming Pulsar 250cc motorcycle will primarily challenge rival products from Yamaha and Suzuki
    Pulsar range has remained a bestseller for Bajaj Auto since several years. It currently has bikes from 125cc to 220cc. Pulsar range motorcycles are popular for their dynamic performance and affordability. As market trends indicate a growing interest in 250cc segment, Bajaj will soon extend Pulsar range to cater to this space.
    Bajaj already has Dominar 250 and same capacity bikes from KTM and Husqvarna. However, considering the wide popularity of Pulsar nameplate, it has a better chance at raking in desired sales numbers. For maximum reach, Bajaj is getting ready to launch two versions of Pulsar 250. Their MD has already announced that launch will take place next month, in Nov 2021 – which is when the Pulsar brand also celebrates its 20th anniversary.
    It includes naked and semi-faired models of Pulsar 250. Going by the company’s current naming convention, these could be called NS250, and 250F respectively. However, we will have to wait for an official confirmation on this. Latest spy images are credit to automotive enthusiast Narinder Tandon, who spotted these Pulsar 250cc motorcycles on Dehu Road, just outside of Pune.
    Pulsar NS250 and 250F
    NS250 has a sporty profile with an aggressive front fascia. The bike gets single LED projector headlamp flanked by eye-shaped sleek LED DRLs. Overall styling seems comparable to 250cc offerings from the likes of Yamaha and Suzuki. At the side, fuel tank is seamlessly integrated with tank shrouds. Air scoops on the fairing are also evident, which could be a way to improve the bike’s aerodynamics.
    New Bajaj Pulsar 250F
    Apart from the tank shrouds, no other form of panelling can be seen on Pulsar NS250. Other key features include engine protector, split seat design, elevated tail section, alloy wheels, rear tyre hugger, and stubby exhaust. The bike has a fairly comfortable riding stance, which makes it suitable for everyday commutes.
    Coming to Pulsar 250F, the only major difference can be seen in the fairing. The front fairing is an integrated unit comprising the headlamp cowl, windscreen and tank shrouds.
    This translates into a beefier look and feel for the bike. The windscreen should be able to provide better wind protection. Some panels can be seen on sides that cover part of the engine assembly. Most other features including riding stance are largely the same as NS250.
    New Bajaj Pulsar 250NS
    Pulsar RS250
    Though not yet spied testing, Bajaj is also expected to launch a fully faired version of the 250cc Pulsar. Bajaj has done a wonderful job with RS200, the only fully-faired Pulsar currently on offer. Expect things to get even better with RS250. Overall styling and fairing are expected to be entirely new. Pulsar RS250 will compete with the likes of Yamaha Fazer 25 and Suzuki Gixxer SF 250.
    All three Pulsar 250cc bikes will share the same engine and most other hardware. They are expected to get an entirely new 250cc motor. It will be different from the existing unit used with KTM 250 Duke, Dominar 250 and Husqvarna twins.
    The new engine could be generating max power of 24 bhp and peak torque of 20 Nm. It could get new features such as slipper clutch and variable valve actuation (VVT). The existing 248.77cc, liquid cooled motor churns out 27 bhp and 23.5 Nm. More

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    2021 Triumph Street Scrambler Teased Ahead Of India Launch

    2021 Triumph Street ScramblerWhen launched in India, the new Triumph Street Scrambler will go head-to-head against Ducati Scrambler Icon
    Triumph is aggressively expanding its international portfolio by unveiling new products across various segments. Back in April this year, the British bikemaker took the wraps off the latest version of Street Scrambler that will also head towards Indian shores. The company, through a teaser on social media, has now confirmed the same.
    The 2021 Street Scrambler features some subtle aesthetic and mechanical updates over its predecessor. It will be available in two forms- standard and a limited-run Sandstorm Edition. The latter has been priced at Rs 9.95 lakh (ex-showroom) for India and is limited to just 775 units worldwide.
    Updated Styling
    To start with its design, 2021 iteration of Street Scrambler gets a raft of styling updates. These include a new side panel with an aluminium number board, a new brushed aluminium headlight bracket, a new heel guard and throttle body finishers. The split-style seats get a new Alcantara-like finish. That said, Triumph has retained the overall retro styling of the bike with the same set of body panels.
    Retro-style components such as a round headlamp, a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, a single-sided high-mounted twin exhaust canister, wire-spoked wheels shod with knobby tyres, fork gaiters and circular rearview mirrors. Triumph, however, has done away with a rubberised grip pad on the tank. It will be available in three paint schemes- a dual-tone Matte Khaki with Matte Ironstone, Jet Black or Urban Grey.
    2021 Triumph Street Scrambler teased
    The Sandstorm Edition gets additional cosmetic enhancements such as a headlight grille, rubber grip pads on the tank, a beak-like high-mounted front mudguard and an engine belly pan which give it a unique appearance. Further, it will be shipped with a personalised certificate of authenticity that will also bear the bike’s VIN number lending it exclusivity. The bike tips the weighing scales at 223kg.
    Mechanical Specs
    Getting into specifications, the bike is powered by a 900cc, parallel-twin, liquid-cooled engine which also powers Bonneville Street Twin. This motor is now BS6/Euro-5 compliant and pushes out 64.1 bhp at 7,500rpm and a peak torque of 80 Nm at 3,200rpm. The engine is mated to a 5-speed gearbox.
    The new Street Scrambler is underpinned by the same steel twin-cradle frame that is suspended on non-adjustable 41mm forks telescopic at front and preload-adjustable twin shocks at rear. Braking duties will be carried out by single disc brakes on both front and rear ends with calipers from Brembo and Nissin respectively. Safety is provided by dual-channel ABS as standard.
    2021 Triumph Street Scrambler
    Features on offer
    Speaking of features, Street Scrambler gets an analogue speedometer with LCD display, a 12-litre fuel tank, full LED illumination traction control and three ride modes- road, rain and off-road. For better off-road performance, it gets switchable ABS. One can expect it to be priced around Rs 9.00 lakh (ex-showroom) when launched in India. More