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    TVS Motor May 2021 Sales Decline MoM – Apache, Jupiter, Ntorq, iQube

    Image – Vlogger Satyam GuptaTVS recorded more exports than domestic sales for the month of May 2021 due to stricter curbs and lockdowns across the country
    With the country grappling with the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic, business in every sector was adversely affected. The story of the auto industry was no different with restrictions across the country impacting production as well as sales of vehicles. Meanwhile, TVS Motor Company registered cumulative sales of 166,889 units in May 2021.
    In comparison, the company sold 69,008 units in the month of May 2020 while in April this year, the Hosur-based bikemaker recorded total sales of 2,38,983 units. This resulted in YoY growth of 141.84 percent and an MoM decline of 30.17 percent. These numbers include two-wheelers and three-wheelers sold both in domestic and overseas markets.
    Two-Wheeler Sales
    Total two-wheelers stood at 154,416 units in May 2021 as against sales of 56,218 units in May last year. Out of these numbers, motorcycles accounted for 125,188 units in May 2021 in comparison to 26,772 units in May 2020. Best sellers in the motorcycle segment included the Apache range.
    Whereas, scooters registered 19,627 units in May 2021 as against sales of 16,120 units in May 2020. Domestic two-wheelers registered 52,084 units in May 2021 while the figures stood at 41,067 units in May last year. Scooter sales featured Jupiter, Ntorq, iQube among top sellers.
    TVS Sales May 2021 vs April 2021 (MoM)
    Three-Wheeler Sales
    A total of 12,473 three-wheelers were sold last month out of which only 131 units accounted for domestic sales while the rest were shipped overseas. This resulted in MoM and YoY decline of 68.20 percent and 99.85 percent respectively on domestic sales.
    The company’s total domestic figure stood at 52,215 units which resulted in over 60 percent decline in both MoM and YoY sales. In comparison, a total of 114,674 units were shipped overseas which translated to a massive YoY growth of 547.62 percent.
    Two-Wheeler Exports
    TVS also sold a total of 9,601 mopeds inclusive of domestic and exports last month. In comparison, 27,753 units of mopeds were sold in April this year and 13,326 units of mopeds were retailed in May last year. This translated to a decline in MoM and YoY sales by 60.36 percent and 27.95 percent. A total of 102,332 units of two-wheelers were exported to overseas markets last month which resulted in the exact same MoM and YoY growths of 7.94 percent.
    TVS Sales May 2021 vs May 2020 (YoY)
    It is clear from the figures that exports boosted the sales figures of TVS Motor for last month. This primarily due to lockdowns imposed in most states across the country. The Hosur-based manufacturer currently retails fourteen products in India which include eight motorcycles, four scooters, one moped and one electric scooter. More

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    Yamaha 250cc Motorcycles FZ 25 And FZS 25 Price Cut By Up To 18k

    Image – Being TechnozzIn India, Yamaha FZ25 and FZS25 compete against the likes of Suzuki Gixxer 250, Bajaj Dominar 250, KTM 250 Duke and Husqvarna 250 siblings
    While automakers in the country have been going on increasing the prices of their products due to rising input costs in recent months, Yamaha has been able to pull off something rare and amazing. The Japanese bikemaker has slashed down the prices of its quarter-litre naked streetfighters FZ25 and FZS25 by up to Rs 18,000.
    Revised Prices
    As per the latest price revision, FZ25 and its premium sibling FZS25 have been priced at Rs. 1,34,800 and Rs.1,39,300 (both prices ex-showroom) respectively. This makes them nearly Rs 18,000 cheaper in comparison to their previous recorded prices. The reduced prices have made the 250cc naked street racers a much more compelling offering to consider.
    Despite the sharp fall in prices, Yamaha has not changed the specifications or features of the motorcycle duo. With a drastic slash in prices, FZ25 and FZS25 are a full Rs 29,000 – Rs 33,000 and Rs 32,000 – Rs 36,000 more affordable than its direct rivals Suzuki Gixxer 250 and Bajaj Dominar 250 respectively.
    Going higher in the quarter-litre class of naked bikes, the Yamaha 250cc siblings are Rs 70,000 cheaper than Husqvarna Svartpilen 250 and Vitpilen 250 and almost Rs 80,000 cheaper than KTM 250 Duke.
    Yamaha FZ25 Price Cut India – May 2021 Price List
    In fact, the revised prices put them in the same price bracket as many of the 200cc naked sports commuters. For example, segment leaders such as Bajaj Pulsar NS200 and TVS Apache RTR 200 4V (dual-channel ABS trim) are priced at Rs.1,35,742 and Rs.1,33,188 (both prices are ex-showroom). While Honda Hornet is powered by a smaller capacity engine, it is still considered to be a 200cc motorcycle with its prices pegged at Rs. 1,31,127 (ex-showroom).
    No change in specs & features
    Both FZ25 and FZS25 are powered by a 249cc, air-cooled, SOHC, single-cylinder engine that returns an output of 20.5 bhp at 8,000rpm and 20.1Nm of peak torque at 6,000rpm. This unit is linked to a 5-speed gearbox.
    Hardware configurations of the bike comprise front telescopic forks and a rear mono-shock which carry out suspension duties on the bike. Braking hardware consists of single disc brakes at both ends which are assisted by a dual-channel ABS as standard.
    Standard features offered on the quarter-litre FZ range include an LED headlight, LED DRLs, negative LCD instrument cluster, side stand with engine cut-off switch and engine underbelly cowling. The premium FZS model benefits from additional features such as brush guards on the handle grips, a long visor and golden coloured alloy rims. More

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    Bajaj Auto Sales May 2021 – Pulsar, Avenger, Dominar, CT100, Platina

    Image – Jet WheelsBajaj Auto two wheeler sales increased 54 percent while exports were up 145 percent in the May 2021 when compared to that of May 2020
    Two and three wheeler manufacturer Bajaj Auto Limited has reported good sales through the month of May 2021. The past month may have seen a continued lockdown in some states due to the ongoing pandemic situation that thankfully is on the ebb, but there was little impact on sales of two wheelers.
    Bajaj Auto has reported total two wheeler and CV sales of 271,862 units in month of May 2021 as compared to 127,128 units sold in May 2020, recording a growth of 114 percent. These total sales included domestic sales of 60,830 units and exports of 2,11,032 units, higher by 52 percent and 142 percent respectively as against 40,074 units and 87,054 units sold in the same month of the previous year.
    Bajaj Sales May 2021
    Two Wheeler Sales in May 2021
    Taking only two wheeler sales into account, the company sold a total of 60,342 units in May 21, up 54 percent as against 39,286 units sold in May 20 while exports surged 145 percent to 180,212 units in May 21. This tool total two wheeler sales to 2,40,554 units, a MoM increase of 113 percent as against 1,12,798 units sold in May 20.
    CV Sales May 21
    Commercial vehicle sales in domestic markets dipped by 38 percent MoM to 488 units while sales in May 2020 had been at 788 units. The company made up these losses thanks to increased exports that stood at 30,820 units in May 21 up 128 percent over 13,542 units shipped in the same month of the previous year. Total commercial vehicle sales thereby increased by 118 percent to 31,308 units in May 21 up from 14,330 units in May 20.
    Bajaj Sales FY 2022
    Bajaj Auto Year-to-Date 2W and CV Sales
    The past two months were particularly noteworthy for Bajaj Auto with sales increase recorded across both two wheeler and commercial vehicles. Sales increased in both domestic and global markets through the April-May 2021 period as against that of April-May 2020.
    Two wheeler domestic sales surged 376 percent to 1,86,912 units in the March-April 21 period as against 39,286 units sold in the months of April-May 20. Exports on the other hand noted a 281 percent increase to 4,01,815 units, thus taking total sales in this segment to 5,88,727 units, an increase of 307 percent as compared to 1,44,807 units sold in the same two months of the previous year.
    CV sales on the other hand increased 956 percent in domestic markets to 8,389 units in April-May 21, up from 788 units sold in April-May 20 while exports stood at 62,762 units, up 223 percent as against 19,411 units sold in the previous year period.
    This took total YTD two wheeler and CV sales up 387 percent in domestic markets to 1,95,301 units and up 272 percent in terms of exports to 4,64,577 units. Bajaj Auto total YRD sales increased 300 percent to 6,59,878 in March-April 21 as against 1,65,006 units sold in march-April 20.
    Upcoming Launches
    Bajaj Auto is keen to enhance its market share and is actively testing the new Pulsar 250cc which is slated to launch in the coming months. Most details are still unknown as test models were under camouflage. On launch, the Pulsar 250cc could be priced lower as compared to the Dominar 250, at around Rs.1.5 lakh and will compete with the Suzuki Gixxer 250 in our market. More

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    2022 Honda CBR250R Digitally Rendered As Adventure Sports-Tourer

    2022 Honda CBR250R ADV Sports Tourer – RenderThis rendered version could be a challenger to the upcoming Yamaha Tracer 250
    Launched way back in 2011, Honda CBR250R was once a popular bike in its segment. However, it received limited updates over the years. With time, newer products with better features started gaining customer attention. Some names include the likes of KTM RC 200, TVS Apache RR310 and Suzuki Gixxer SF250.
    Honda CBR250R was discontinued last year, as it was not updated to comply with BS6 emission norms. However, the motorcycle still enjoys a niche fan following. And it’s fairly possible that there would be a number of customers who want CBR250R to be re-launched.
    Automotive artist ‘Abin Designs’ certainly seems to meet the criteria. Abin Designs has come up with a digital rendering of CBR250R in adventure sports-tourer format. Based on its features, the bike could also qualify as an Adv.
    Honda CBR250R sports-tourer key features
    This sports-tourer version of CBR250R looks a lot more aggressive. The various components that have been updated include the headlight and LED DRLs. Below the headlights, we can see a couple of winglets. The bike has been equipped with a large windshield, which should provide adequate protection. Other changes include a tube-type handlebar and knuckle guards.
    2022 Honda CBR250R ADV Sports Tourer – Render
    Talking about ergonomics, the bike offers a relaxed, upright riding stance. The foot pegs are almost perpendicular to the seat. Even CBR250R offered comfortable rides, but this sports-tourer version appears to be more relaxed. In terms of functional improvements, the bike gets USD forks at the front in golden shade, radially mounted brake calliper and a new rotor. Ground clearance also appears to have been increased.
    2022 Honda CBR250R ADV Sports Tourer – Render
    Honda CBR250R engine
    Honda CBR250R was powered by a 249.6cc liquid-cooled motor that was capable of generating 26 bhp of max power and 22.9 Nm of max torque. It was mated to a 6-speed gearbox. The digitally rendered sports-tourer version could be using the same engine in its updated BS6 format.
    It could get new features such as LCD display and assist and slipper clutch. The latter comes handy during various situations such as quick down-shifting, rapid up-shifting and when negotiating tough corners. Dual-channel ABS would be offered as standard.
    2022 Honda CBR250R ADV Sports Tourer – Render
    When launching an updated product, OEMs have to consider various factors such as market dynamics, customer preferences, rival products, pricing, etc. Something that looks good on paper may not necessarily be viable from a business perspective.
    But when evaluated purely from a design perspective, this sports-tourer version of Honda CBR250R certainly deserves attention. The sports tourer / adventure segment has been witnessing strong growth and this motorcycle seems a perfect fit in this space.
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    2021 MV Agusta F3 Rosso Revealed – Gets Updated Powertrain, Features

    2021 MV Agusta F3 RossoMV Augusta F3 Rosso is pitted against the likes of Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R and Ducati Panigale V2
    MV Agusta is a leader in getting art and superbikes together. All their motorcycles are scorching head turners. Not just looks but the motorcycle from the Italian brand also possess some feisty performance which makes them one of the most loved machines on tracks. The company has updated another one of its speed demons for 2021 with updated emission norms and a few additional techs.
    The Italian superbike maker has updated F3 Rosso for 2021 which is now Euro-5 compliant and gets a brand-new set of electronics. However, the upgrades are far more complex and nuanced which is said to offer even better driving pleasure without compromising on environment.
    2021 MV Agusta F3 Rosso
    Design
    In terms of design, the overall styling of F3 Rosso is still intact with subtle tweaks added to accentuate the bike’s sporty appeal. As evident, the design of F3 has been derived from its larger sibling F4 which is considered to be one of the best-looking motorcycles ever made. It continues to feature a single-pod headlight, a fully-faired design, rear-view mirrors mounted on front fairing with integrated turn indicators and split-style seats.
    The exhaust setup has been revised slightly. The triple-outlet rectangular exhaust canisters are now wrapped in a black heat shield instead of the old silver one which looks sharper. In addition, the dazzling Agostini Red colour scheme with the contrasting black engine-gearbox assembly and underpinnings would swoon the hearts of any racer.
    2021 MV Agusta F3 Rosso
    Updated Features, Rider Aids
    The updated equipment gets a new 5.5-inch TFT instrument console with legible readouts, however, the graphics seem underwhelming. The display comes with Bluetooth connectivity as well as MV Ride App which can be paired to any Android or iOS device which enables riders to customise the settings according to their liking. It also provides turn-by-turn navigation and allows riders to share their trip information on social media platforms.
    2021 F3 Ross also gets an updated set of electronics with a new IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) platform. It is now offered with cornering ABS which has been developed by Continental and a lean-sensitive traction control system for a better grip on the road. MV Agusta has provided an updated Front Lift Control system or wheelie control in common terms that allows a controlled wheelie rather than prevent it altogether.
    More Accessible High-End Performance
    The middleweight superbike is still powered by the same 798cc, inline three-cylinder, liquid-cooled motor but has undergone some small yet significant updates. The DLC (Diamond-like-Carbon) coating on cylinder walls and redesigned valve guides have resulted in a reduction in internal friction. Other updates include new injectors offering more injection pressure and a revised exhaust manifold have led to better power and torque curves.
    2021 MV Agusta F3 Rosso
    Although the output figures of 145 bhp at 13,000 rpm and 88 Nm at 10,100 rpm are almost similar to its predecessor, the peak torque is now achieved 500 rpm earlier. The engine is paired with a six-speed gearbox which gets a new clutch basket and a third generation Quick-Shift EAS 3.0 bi-directional quick-shifter which makes faster and smoother shifts.
    No changes have been made to its suspension setup which gets Marzocchi USD forks at front and a Sachs mono-shock at rear, both fully adjustable. Prices for the updated F3 Rosso are expected to be announced in coming weeks. Its launch in India remains uncertain as MV Agusta currently has no local distributor since Kinetic-owned MotoRoyale terminated the agreement with the company a year ago. More

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    Seatbelt For Motorcycle Riders Patented By Italdesign

    Motorcycle seatbelt patent by Italdesign
    The system is built around a backrest shell and sensors which are controlled by onboard computers
    Seatbelts have proven to be a boon to vehicular safety and we cannot thank Volvo enough for not just creating them but also releasing the patents to the entire world. While this simple and purely mechanical technology has been a mainstay for safety in vehicles with four or more wheels, it strangely hasn’t found any place in two-wheelers.
    However, it seems that an Italian designing firm has come with a solution regarding this. Italdesign has patented a smart seat belt system for motorcycles and scooters which will protect the rider in case of an accident. The company is also responsible for creating some of the most iconic automotive designs including Ducati 860 GT, first-gen Volkswagen Golf and Lamborghini Gallardo.
    This system has the capability to recognise the type of accidents and react accordingly and thereby minimising possible injuries. It has been designed to keep the rider in place in certain accidents while in other kinds of accidents it allows a rider to separate from the bike if and when needed. This is carried out with the help of onboard computers and sensors.
    How Does the System Work?
    The system is built around a rigid, shell-like backrest that is attached to the two-wheeler via a flexible joint. The rider wraps around the backrest shell is a type of 6-point harness allowing the rider to move to a certain degree. A quick-release system that allows the entire backrest shell to get uncoupled from the two-wheeler when needed.
    Motorcycle seatbelt patent by Italdesign
    In the event of an accident, the algorithms from the computers will be able to identify the best course of action whether to release the rider or hold them intact. It is somewhat similar to deployment of airbags in cars.
    Motorcycle seatbelt patent by Italdesign
    In case of a head-on collision, the system will keep the rider in place and thus prevent him/her from being flung off the two-wheeler and making the situation grimmer. In other cases like losing traction around a corner and sliding the system will detach the rider from the vehicle along with the backrest.
    Applicable to which kind of vehicles?
    It is still unclear as to which stage of development this system is in. While the idea appears to be an interesting concept, more details on it will help us reach an appropriate judgment.
    And although the smart seatbelt mechanism does allow a wee bit of movement for riders, it certainly does not seem suitable for engaging types of motorcycles where movement of body is of paramount importance to gain optimal performance. At best, it could be tried out for beginner riders or at scooter and commuter motorcycles. More

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    Jawa Classic Matte Black Colour Inspired By Perak – Offered At Authorized Dealer

    Jawa Classic Matte Black. Credit – Jawa Surat / Agozee KustomsJawa is no doubt a beautiful classic worth admiring at, but colour options are fairly limited
    For most people buying Jawa, the choice would be either Black or Maroon. There’s a Grey option as well, but that colour theme may not appeal to everyone. In comparison, Jawa forty two offers lot more colour options such as Nebula Blue (Glossy), Comet Red (Glossy), Starlight Blue (Matte), Lumos Lime (Matte), Halley’s Teal (Matte) and Galactic Green (Matte).
    It’s always possible that a customer wants the standard Jawa, but doesn’t like the available stock colours. In this situation, the right thing to do would be to approach a customization shop. This way, the customer can have their preferred ride in the colour of their own choosing.
    A recent example comes from Surat based agozee_kustoms that has carried out a seamless transformation of Jawa in Matte Black colour. This customization job is done for Seema Bikes, which is the authorized dealer of Jawa India. Cost of the modification is Rs 15,000 – above the cost of the motorcycle.
    Jawa Matte Black key details
    The bike gets Matte Black shade all around. It covers the headlight, front and rear fenders, rear view mirrors, fuel tank, radiator, front suspension, and side panels. Engine, spoke wheels and exhaust have also been blacked out. The only metallic bits that are left can be seen on the headlight ring, turn indicators, rear suspension and kick-start lever.
    Jawa Classic Matte Black. Credit – Jawa Surat / Agozee Kustoms
    The golden pinstriping has been retained in largely the same format as is available with the stock variant. This is an integral design element that gives the bike its retro flavour. The golden pinstriping can be seen on the headlight cowl, front and rear fenders, fuel tank and side panels.
    Jawa Classic Matte Black
    If we compare the customized Matte Black with stock Black colour, the latter can be seen with liberal use of metallic bits. Components like the front suspension, fuel tank, engine, exhaust, rear suspension and spoke wheels wear a metallic shade. For folks with relatively sober colour preferences, the customized Matte Black shade could be an ideal choice.
    Factory finish
    A notable aspect of this customization project is that the workmanship is truly outstanding. The Matte Black shade looks even all across and other finer details have been executed with perfection.
    The bike’s design and Matte Black shade have turned out to be a perfect match. It’s something that the company can consider launching as a new shade for Jawa and Jawa forty two. Something similar is already offered with Jawa Perak. More

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    Hero Sales, Exports Breakup April 2021 – Splendor, Deluxe, Glamour, Pleasure

    Image – Biker Babu Bike hunterHero Splendor and HF Deluxe remained top-selling models in both domestic and exports
    The second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic has been extremely disastrous not just healthwise but also financially since businesses across the country came to a standstill once again very much similar to last year around the same time. The auto industry of the country too had to bear the brunt last month when sales plummeted drastically.
    Domestic- Splendor, HF Deluxe Lead sales figures
    Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest two-wheeler company, witnessed a decline in MoM sales by 37.04 percent in April 2021. The manufacturer was able to sell a total of 3,42,704 units of two-wheelers which is 2,01,836 units less than what was sold the previous month in March.
    The list was spearheaded by the brand’s most popular product- Splendor which recorded a sales volume of 1,93,598 units last month as opposed to 2,80,090 units retailed in March this year. This resulted in a decline in MoM sales by 30.88 percent.
    It was followed by another entry-level motorcycle HF Deluxe which registered a sales volume of 71,294 units in April. A decline in figure by 73,511 units translated to a negative MoM growth of 50.66 percent.
    Hero Domestic Sales Breakup April 2021
    Others too register MoM decline
    Glamour took third place with 23,627 units in April 2021 as compared to 32,371 units sold the previous month, thus registering an MoM decline of 27.01 percent. Hero’s most popular scooter Pleasure registered sales of 18,298 units last month which was 10,218 units less than the previous month. It recorded degrowth of 35.83 percent. It was followed by Passion at the fifth spot with 17,748 units sold in April. In March, the figures for the 110cc motorcycle stood at 30,464, therefore, recording an MoM decline of 41.74 percent.
    Destini (9,121 units), Maestro Edge (4,680 units), Xtreme 160R (2,293 units) and Xpulse 200 (2,045 units) formed the rest of the range for Hero’s domestic portfolio. All two-wheelers recorded negative MoM growths of 35.05 percent, 41.54 percent, 40.29 percent and 17.71 percent.
    Exports
    Things weren’t too pleasing for overseas markets as exports were hit badly due to disruption in production. A total of 29,671 two-wheelers were shipped to foreign markets in April this year by Hero MotoCorp.
    Hero Exports Breakup April 2021
    In comparison to March 2021, these numbers were less by 2,946 units which resulted in a MoM decline of 9.03 percent. HF Deluxe spearheaded the exports for April with 8,716 units dispatched to overseas markets. With 375 units less than March 2021, it translated to degrowth of 4.12 percent.
    HF Deluxe was followed by Splendor which registered exports of 5,194 units in April against 7,106 units dispatched in March. This resulted in a negative MoM growth of 26.91 percent. All models, barring Xpulse 200 and Glamour, recorded a decline in exports. Hero shipped 3,026 units and 3,012 units of both motorcycles, therefore, registering positive MoM growths of 27.41 percent and 219.75 percent. More