Bike

Subterms

    More stories

    • 163 Shares169 Views

      in Bike

      Updated KTM RC 125 India Launch Likely This Month – Rivals Yamaha R15

      by

      New KTM RC 125
      Upon its launch, the new KTM RC 125 will lock its horns against Yamaha YZF R15 V3 and is expected to be priced around Rs 1.80 lakh (ex-showroom)
      A few days ago, KTM officially unveiled its updated range of RC models for the global market including RC 125, RC 200 and RC 390. The new generation RC models have received a plethora of upgrades over the current-gen models in terms of styling as well as dynamics.
      The Austrian brand is likely to kickstart the new-gen models with launch of the entry-level model of the RC range. Like its more powerful siblings, RC 125 gets significant styling updates in comparison to its predecessor. The fully-faired sports bike takes design inspiration from RC8 that has now been discontinued in the global market.
      Updated Design
      Speaking of its design, the new-gen RC 125 adopts a curvier styling which appears more aerodynamic in nature thanks to the multiple cuts and creases along the new body panels. Upfront, the fascia has been completely revised which now features a new single-pod LED headlamp unit, a stark departure from the twin-beam headlights in the outgoing model. The headlight is flanked by trendy boomerang-shaped LED DRLs on both sides which double up as turn indicators.
      Major updates have been made to the side fairings which are larger and lighter and provide aerodynamic support with large air dams. The new RC 125 rolls on new 5-spoke alloy wheels which are lighter than the ones on the current model. The fuel tank looks even more muscular with a larger 13.7-litre capacity. Other notable styling highlights include a clip-on handlebar, a raised tail section, a split seating setup, and a swept-up exhaust.
      New KTM RC125
      New Colour Schemes, Features
      The entry-level supersport motorcycle will receive new colour schemes in offing which include two dual-tone options including white with orange and black with orange colour options. Orange-coloured alloy rims further lend the bike its signature KTM visual appeal. Riding posture remains committed with slightly rear-centred footpegs and a short handlebar.
      Updates have also been made to the equipment which now gets a new LCD instrument cluster. The latest console should also provide connectivity in the form of Bluetooth. Further, it also gets a full LED lighting setup.
      Upgraded Performance
      Major updates have been made underneath the skin of the bike including a new trellis frame with a bolt-on rear subframe which is 1.5 kg lighter. The new frame ensures better control and handling at high speeds. Suspension duties are handled by USD forks at front and a mono-shock unit at rear embraced by an alloy swingarm. These are factory tuned to deliver better track performance.
      Small updates made to the powertrain also claimed to have improved the performance vastly. The new-gen RC 125 will feature the same 124.7cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine which pumps out 14.5 bhp and 12 Nm of peak torque in the current model. In the upcoming iteration, these figures are expected to be slightly higher thanks to a new cooling system with a larger airbox – resulting in ultra-slick throttle response. More

    • 125 Shares139 Views

      in Bike

      Bajaj Chetak, TVS iQube Electric Scooter Sales Post Record Growth

      by

      Bajaj ChetakBajaj Chetak and TVS iQube electric scooter sales have grown over 10 times in 2021, compared to 2020
      Electric scooter sales in India have been noting a marked increase over the past year, following ever increasing fuel prices. New entrants have entered the fray that include recently launched Ola and the Simple One, competing with more established rivals from Hero Electric, Okinawa, Ampere, Ather, Bajaj Chetak, TVS iQube, etc.
      In 2021, sales of Bajaj Chetak and TVS iQube have noted significant increase over sales in the same period of the previous year. Bajaj Chetak sales stood at 1,991 units in 2022, up from 332 units sold in 2021. TVS iQube sales increased to 2,255 units up from 71 units in the corresponding period. Total sales of these two, increased from about 400 in 2020 to over 4k in 2021 (Jan-July period).
      Chetak, iQube Sales Increase
      Bajaj Chetak and TVS iQube, these two electric scooters have seen widescale acceptance by buyers in India over the past few months. Sales in June-July period have been the highest. Both scooters have posted a total of over 1,000 sales in both these months.
      Sales of both e-scooters could have been higher, but they currently on sale only in a few cities only. Bajaj Chetak sales only recently expanded to Nagpur, Aurangabad, Mysore and Mangalore while more cities will be added in the coming months. By end of 2021, Bajaj expects that the Chetak will go on sale across 22 new cities and by March 2022, Chetak will be available in 40 cities.
      Chetak and iQube electric scooter sales – 2021 vs 2020
      TVS iQube, on the other hand, is currently available in Pune, Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai and Coimbatore. It is expected to go on sale in more cities of Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Mumbai and Kolkata soon. iQube will also be available in a number of Tier I cities.
      Electric Scooter Demand
      Not only Bajaj Chetak and TVS iQube, all electric vehicles are registering increase in sales / demand. Be it cars or two wheelers, EVs are much in demand. Boost in demand is due to multiple reasons. Top two reasons which has boosted EV demand in recent months – is the increase in petrol price and increase in subsidy thanks to FAME scheme and state govt incentives.
      OEMs are currently working towards increasing their manufacturing capacity, to meet the growing demand of EVs. Bajaj will setup new plant in Chakan near Pune for EVs. TVS has Rs 1,000 crore investment plan for EVs. Hero Electric is increasing production capacity to 10 lakh units. Ampere, Okinawa also has plans to increase production of EVs. Basically everywhere you look, all are trying to be a part of the EV boom.
      Currently, many buyers are staying away from EV due to reasons like higher price, little to no availability of charging network, etc. But these concerns will not remain for long. With increase in production, rise in sales, battery prices are expected to decline in coming years. With more people buying EVs, network of EV chargers is also expected to grow at a similar rate. This will boost EV sales across segments. EVs are likely to replace ICEs at a faster rate than expected. More

    • 138 Shares179 Views

      in Bike

      2022 BMW G310R, G310GS Arrives At Dealer Showrooms – Launch Soon

      by

      2022 BMW G310GS. Image – Vinod Natesan
      Both BMW G310 duos received a substantial price hike of Rs 10,000 a few weeks ago
      BMW Motorrad will soon be updating its entry-level G310 siblings with new colour options. The German automaker had teased the new colour options on G310R and its adventure tourer sibling – G310GS. Both updated motorcycles have now started to arrive at dealer showrooms. Test rides will start soon. Bookings are open at BMW Motorrad Bavaria Motors, Pune.
      Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Vinod Natesan for sharing images. Changes to the MY2022 models are restricted to cosmetic updates that only involve new colour options. Bookings for the latest iteration of the bikes have already commenced a few weeks ago. Both motorcycles remain mechanically identical to their respective outgoing models.
      2022 G310R Colour Options
      For starters, the entry-level naked roadster from the Bavarian brand will be offered in two new colour options namely Style Passion and Cosmic Black Two. While the latter is an all-black paint scheme, the former option gets white as a base paint with contrasting blue and red highlights for the body. The Style Passion colour option also features red accents on the exposed trellis frame and alloy wheels.
      The German marque has discontinued the Polar White paint scheme from the international markets and is most likely to be dropped from the Indian market as well. This has been replaced by a new Kyanite Blue Metallic Style Passion colour option. BMW has also retained the Limestone Metallic Style Sport shade from the current iteration.
      2022 BMW G310R
      2022 G310GS Colour Options
      Coming to G310GS, the adventure bike will now be available in a Style Triple Black paint scheme which looks very attractive. The new colour scheme features blacked-out bodywork such as the front apron, beak, bash plate, visor, a portion of the semi-fairing and radiator shrouds. BMW has given this option a dual-tone theme with a silver-coloured side fairing, fuel tank panel and rear fender.
      The alloy wheels have been blacked out as well. This accentuates the sporty appeal of the adventure tourer. Further, golden-coloured front forks add a nice contrast to the bike’s overall appeal.
      Prior to this bike was available in three colour options namely- Rallye Style, Polar White and Kyanite Blue Metallic Style which have been retained. There was an additional special “40 Years GS” edition model which has been dropped from the GS lineup.
      2022 BMW G310GS
      Mechanical Specs
      Underneath the top hat, 2022 G310 motorcycles are exactly similar to each other. Both are powered by a 313cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that pushes out 33.5 bhp and 28 Nm of peak torque. This motor is linked with a 6-speed gearbox with a slipper and assist clutch. Suspension duties are carried out by USD forks up front and a mono-shock at rear. Anchorage is handled by 300mm front and 240mm rear disc brakes assisted by dual-channel ABS. More

    • 125 Shares129 Views

      in Bike

      Husqvarna Electric Scooter, Motorcycle Makes Public Debut – India Bound

      by

      Husqvarna electric motorcycle E-PilenPopular brands like Husqvarna will have to start from scratch just like other manufacturers in EV space
      As part of its mission to develop a zero-emission product range, Husqvarna has unveiled its electric scooter and motorcycle concept. Although technology has changed, Husqvarna electric two-wheelers continue using some of the quirky design elements that the brand has been associated with. Husqvarna is working to ensure that its e-mobility products continue to offer the same level of riding pleasure and dynamics as its current range of petrol-powered two-wheelers. Husqvarna Electric Scooter Public debut took place at the IAA 2021.
      Husqvarna Vektorr scooter concept
      Unlike conventional scooters that have curvy body panels, Husqvarna Vektorr scooter utilizes a more structured approach in its design. It is based on the Bajaj Chetak electric scooter which is on sale in India.
      The body panels comprise an interesting amalgamation of flat-looking geometric figures such as squares, rectangles, triangles and trapezoids. The seat has a flat design, running almost parallel to the floorboard. The only exception is the front apron that has a curvy structure. This is more like a standard scooter.
      Among the key styling bits that allude to Husqvarna design DNA is the circular headlamp. Vektorr concept has been presented in a dual-tone colour theme of white and black. While the side panels are done in white, other body parts have the black shade.
      Husqvarna electric scooter Vektorr
      Some of the blacked-out sections have a glossy piano black finish. The ‘Vektorr’ badging can be seen on the side panels. Bright yellow highlighters have been used on the sides and wheels, which add extra zing to the scooter’s dynamic profile.
      Going by its futuristic persona, one would expect Vektorr to be pretty fast on the streets. However, the scooter has a top speed of just 45 kmph. It is probably done on purpose. Because of this lower top speed, riders in Europe will not need a special motorcycle license to ride the Vektorr.
      Also, low speed should not be a major concern for everyday commutes in traffic conditions. Moreover, users get 95km range on a full charge. Although details about the powertrain have not been revealed, the scooter could be expected to use a 2-3kW motor.
      Husqvarna electric scooter Vektorr
      Husqvarna E-Pilen motorcycle concept
      With its circular headlamp, wide handlebar, angular fuel tank, and exposed trellis frame, E-Pilen concept looks familiar to gas-powered Svartpilen and Vitpilen. The genius of E-Pilen’s design is in its clever use of fuel tank to store the batteries.
      There are three removable batteries neatly packed inside the fuel tank. Users can charge these at their home or at a charging station. It is also possible that Husqvarna may provide the facility of battery swapping stations.
      Husqvarna electric motorcycle E-Pilen
      Powering the bike is an 8 kW (10.7 hp) chain-drive motor. This should be able to deliver decent performance for city commutes. According to Husqvarna, E-Pilen can cover 100 km on a single charge. Although top speed of the bike has not been revealed, it is likely to be around 100-120 kmph. The bike has USD forks at front and monoshock rear suspension. Braking duties are performed by disc brakes at both ends.
      Husqvarna Vektorr and E-Pilen will first debut in Europe before being introduced in Indian market. They are likely to be manufactured at Bajaj Auto’s plant in Pune, Maharashtra.

      Source More

    • 125 Shares189 Views

      in Bike

      Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 And Scram 400 Spied Testing Together

      by

      Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 – RenderBoth the 650cc cruiser and Scram 400 are from Royal Enfield likely to be launched sometime next year
      The upcoming 650cc cruiser from Royal Enfield has been in development for almost two years now and spotted testing on multiple occasions in various parts of the country. Multiple iterations of the 650cc cruiser have been spotted in recent times. The bikemaker currently has its hands full as it is busy developing several projects at the same time.
      One of the other products in the development stage as of now is Scram 400 which is based on Himalayan. Both Scram 400 and the 650cc cruiser have been spied testing alongside each other recently. The motorcycles in the latest spy shots are heavily wrapped under covers trying to conceal their true identity.
      650cc Cruiser Details
      As mentioned previously, the overall design draws inspiration from the KX Bobber Concept which made its appearance at the EICMA 2018. Hence, it receives a low stance of a traditional cruiser with forward set footpegs, a wide handlebar and a low seat which provide relaxed riding ergonomics. Unlike the current 650cc Twins- Interceptor and Continental GT, the cruiser rides on alloy wheels shod by tubeless tyres.
      Also, the cruiser gets LED headlamps and a large windscreen up front, the latter should be available as an accessory though. Other styling highlights include a circular headlamp, circular rearview mirrors and teardrop-shaped fuel tank.
      Royal Enfield Shotgun 650
      The signature highlight of the bike are the twin exhausts laced with chrome which gives out a muffled exhaust note. The bike gets a flat tail section of which has been completely masked under camouflage.
      Powering the cruiser is the same 648cc parallel-twin, air-cooled motor that pushes out 47 bhp and 52 Nm of peak torque. This engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox. Pleasantly, suspension duties will be handled by new upside-down forks instead of conventional telescopic forks at front. At rear, twin shock absorbers mounted at a greater angle than 650 Twins get the job done.
      Scram 400 Details
      On the other hand, Scram 400 is a road-biased tourer based on Himalayan’s platform which also shares certain design cues with the latter. However, most of the styling will be revised in order to lend it a distinct identity.
      Royal Enfield Scram 400 and Shotgun 650
      For starters, unlike Himalayan, Scram 400 will get a smaller 19-inch front wheel instead of a 21-inch unit shod by dual-purpose tyres. A redesigned headlight mask has been added for a cleaner look.
      Scram 400 will be powered by a 411cc single-cylinder air-cooled SOHC engine that kicks out 24.3 bhp and 32 Nm of peak torque which will be paired with a five-speed gearbox. Suspension setup of the bike might be tuned a little to offer more favourable on-road dynamics.
      Source More

    • 125 Shares119 Views

      in Bike

      New Benelli 250cc Motorcycle Debuts – Rivals Yamaha R25, CBR250RR

      by

      New Benelli Tornado 252RIn Asian markets, Tornado 252R will take on Honda CBR 250RR, Yamaha R25 and Kawasaki Ninja 250
      Ever since the Italian manufacturer was acquired by China-based Qianjiang Motor Group, the company has been following an aggressive product strategy. A number of new models have been launched over the years to challenge the might of Japanese manufacturers such as Yamaha, Honda and Kawasaki. The latest offering is Tornado 252R, which comes across as an absolute stunner.
      Benelli Tornado 252R design and features
      With its brawny profile, Benelli Tornado 252R has what it takes to be defined as an apex predator. Its low nose and elevated tail create the impression of a crouched beast focused on its prey. At the front, Tornado 252R has oval-shaped headlamp, flanked by sleek DRLs. Visor used is a pretty large unit, almost reaching the height of rear tail section. This should be able to provide good wind protection.
      Other key features include sculpted fuel tank, clip-on handlebars, split seats, USD front forks, spear-shaped LED turn signals, engine protector, upswept exhaust with chrome heat shield, sporty alloy wheels and edgy tail lamp. The track-ready bike has an aggressive riding stance with rear-set footpegs. It gets a LCD speedometer.
      Another key highlight of Benelli Tornado 252R is its sprightly colour options. The ones that stand out include black, red, blue and green colour options. As per the theme, these shades primarily cover the front cowl, fuel tank and tail section. This has ensured an exciting contrast against the blacked out components and silver-toned side fairing. The bike also uses graphics for a sportier look and feel.
      New Benelli Tornado 252R
      In tech department, Benelli Tornado 252R has been equipped with USB charging port. Smartphone connectivity is also likely to be available with the bike.
      Benelli Tornado 252R engine and specs
      Powering the bike is a 249cc, DOHC, parallel-twin, 8-valve motor. It is capable of generating 25.7 hp of max power at 8,500 rpm and 24.1 Nm of peak torque at 6,500 rpm. One would have expected higher output numbers with the twin-cylinder motor, but that’s not the case with Benelli 252R.
      Even bikes with single-cylinder engine such as Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 deliver comparable numbers of 26.5 hp and 22.2 Nm. It appears that the bike is focused more on visual appear, practical power delivery and sweet-sounding exhaust note. Another factor that can affect performance is the bike’s weight (177 kg). This can impact acceleration and top speed.
      It is unlikely that Benelli Tornado 252R will be launched in India. In China, the bike comes with a price tag of 25,800 Yuan. This is close to INR 2.95 lakh. For the Indian market, Benelli is likely to choose 302R. It will take on rivals such as KTM RC 390. Benelli India current portfolio starts with Imperiale 400. Other bikes are in 500cc category such as Leoncino, 502C, TRK 502 and TRK 502X. More

    • 125 Shares129 Views

      in Bike

      BattRe Electric Scooter Production Increased – Thanks To Larger Factory

      by

      BattRE electric scooter new plantBattRe increases production to 4,000 units per month with move to bigger factory
      With an increase in the number of individuals with an increasing disposable income, customers continue to grow. Battre would want to be a part of this growth, and cater to a growing customer base across the country. The company plans to work towards increasing its customer base. This will be addressed through top notch service by adding more retail outlets in Tier-1, Tier-2 and large metros.
      Though fairly new in the market, the company emphasises on continued focus on sustainability to take steps towards becoming one of India’s most sustainable companies. Within the next few months, the company will stay focused on expanding its chargers network in the country.
      As is evident, Battre is already investing more in production and R&D capabilities. Growth plans are supported through new products, strengthening retail and partner network, and by working further to build an EV ecosystem in India.
      Growing demand of e-scooters
      In the process of strengthening business, Battre’s focus areas include expanding customer reach, while at the same time investing in R&D and production capabilities. Timely increase in production will help meet growing demand. A number of electric two-wheeler manufacturers have reported increase in sales in recent months.
      BattRE Electric Scooter
      Nishchal Chaudhary, founder of BattRE, said on the occasion, “This factory expansion will cater to the growing demand of e-scooters which we forecast to increase multi-fold in the next couple of quarters. Moreover, with an ARR of Rs.120 crores, we plan to invest more in our production and R&D capabilities, add world-class products, strengthen our retail & partner network, and work further to build an EV ecosystem in India.”
      Revenue increase
      As with processes, the main challenge for start-ups like BattRE is low capital availability. With its ARR looking good, BattRE looks to invest meaningfully towards business expansion.The Jaipur based auto manufacturer is watching growth in electric vehicle demand with eagle eyes. The move to a bigger factory helps meet this demand. With manufacturing capacity increasing to 4000 units per month, the company is looking as 300 percent increase overall.
      Last year, revenue increased by 255 percent. For 2021, YTD, revenue growth is pegged at 900 percent+. In order to sustain demand and growth, Battre is ready to launch two new products in the next 3-4 months.
      In helping build the EV ecosystem in India, Battre has already seen to 500 recharge stations being installed. They’re also training existing petrol 2-wheeler repair shops to service electric vehicles. More

    • 175 Shares189 Views

      in Bike

      Top 10 Motorcycles 200cc To 500cc July 2021 – Classic, Bullet, Pulsar, CB350, KTM

      by

      Image – Throttle 98More new entrants in this segment will be seen in the coming months primarily from Bajaj and Royal Enfield
      Royal Enfield continued to dominate the mid-displacement segment (200cc-500cc) of motorcycles in India. A total of 49,212 bikes from this segment were sold in July 2021 which is 5,471 units more than the figures in June this year and 2,566 units more than July last year. This resulted in MoM growth of 12.51 percent and YoY growth of 5.50 percent.
      Royal Enfield Trio Dominates Motorcycles 200cc To 500cc July 2021
      The segment was headed by the perennial leader RE Classic 350 which recorded a sales figure of 16,890 units last month. In comparison, the retro-style modern bike had registered 17,377 units the previous month which translated to marginal MoM degrowth of 2.90. Growth was further lower in the YoY figures with a decline of 33.85 percent.
      It was followed by the brand’s latest cruiser offering Meteor 350 with a total monthly sales of 8,777 units in July 2021 which is just seven units more than what RE sold in June this year. It was followed by the company’s oldest offering Bullet 350 which garnered a sales volume of 7,133 units last month. Therefore, it registered YoY and MoM growth of 0.30 percent and 34.15 percent.
      Bajaj Shines With Lone Pulsar
      The fourth spot was taken by Bajaj’s flagship Pulsar model- 220F with a cumulative sales volume of 3,484 units. This is 56 units less than the sales volume of June 2021 which has resulted in a slight negative MoM growth of -1.58 percent. During the same period last year, Bajaj sold 4,850 units of Pulsar 220F which has translated to a YoY decline of 28.16 percent.
      Motorcycle Sales 200cc-500cc segment July 2021 vs July 2020 (YoY)
      Electra 350 raked in a sales volume of 2,949 units in July this year against 3,137 units retailed in June 2021. This led to an MoM degrowth of 6 percent. In comparison, RE sold 3,742 units of Electra during July last year leading to a YoY decline of 21.19 percent. RE Himalayan occupied the sixth spot with 2,730 units dispatched to showrooms across the country.
      Honda, KTM generate decent volume
      The bikemaker was only able to sell 479 units of the adventure tourer which has resulted in a massive YoY growth of 470 percent. In June this year, only 684 units of Himalayan were sold which led to an MoM of 299 percent.
      Honda entered this class of motorcycles with H’Ness CB350 last year and retailed 2,285 units of the motorcycle last month. In June this year, the Japanese brand retailed 1,853 units of CB350 which has led to an MoM growth of 23.31 percent.
      Motorcycle Sales 200cc-500cc segment July 2021 vs June 2021 (MoM)
      KTM broke into the list at the eighth spot with 250 series of motorcycles. The Austrian brand sold 1,002 units of its quarter-litre offerings in July this year thus recording an MoM growth of 87 percent. The YoY growth was even larger at 381.73 percent as KTM sold only 208 units during the same month last year. KTM 250 was followed by its Japanese nemesis FZ25 with 831 units dispatched to dealerships last month. YoY and MoM growths of 57.39 percent and 47.86 percent were registered. More