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    New Honda U-GO Electric Scooter Debuts With 133 Kms Range

    Honda U-Go Electric ScooterWhile Honda has no intentions of bringing the U-Go e-scooter to India anytime soon, it would make a very tempting buy considering all the benefits added
    Honda’s future in electric mobility especially in the two-wheeler segment has been a point of discussion in recent months. While the auto giant has filed multiple patents for electric two-wheelers in India, none of them are confirmed to reach production levels eventually as of now.
    On the other hand, in China, Honda has already marked its presence in the electric mobility space. Wuyang Honda, the Chinese arm of Honda Motor Company, has launched a new electric scooter named U-Go at a rather affordable starting price of CNY 7,499 (approx. INR 86,000) and is offered in two variants- regular and low-speed.
    Simple Design
    The latter is priced at CNY 7,999 (approx. INR 91,700). In terms of design, it does remind us a wee bit of Ather 450X but no, it isn’t a Chinese rip-off, especially with the scooter donning the brand name of Honda. The company has adopted a clean and minimalist design approach for this electric scooter. It flaunts a sleek LED headlight with triple beams on the front apron and an LED DRL strip encircling the main cluster.
    The turn indicators are neatly integrated on the sides of the handlebar. The rear flaunts a slim LED taillight along with a single-piece pillion grab rail integrated onto the body. It gets a generously sized 350mm long floorboard. The blacked-out panels on the handlebar, floorboard, underbelly, tail section, rear suspension and rear mudguard add a hint of sporty contrast. The single-piece flat seat promises fairly simple riding ergonomics.
    Honda U-Go Electric Scooter
    Features on offer
    In terms of features, U-Go e-scooter gets a fairly spacious boot with an under-seat storage capacity of 26 litres. Other features include all-LED illumination, a utility glove box, an anti-theft alarm and a USB charging port.
    More importantly, it gets an LCD instrument console that provides basic information like speed, range, battery status and riding mode. The scooter rides on 12-inch front and 10-inch rear alloy wheels.
    Specifications
    Coming to its specifications, U-Go is powered by a 48V 30Ah Lithium-ion removable battery pack which is coupled with a 1.2kW hub motor on the regular model. The low-speed variant gets a less powerful 800W motor. The powertrain returns a maximum range of 65km which can be doubled 130km by the addition of a second battery. However, the addition of the second battery comes at the cost of reduced under-seat storage.
    Honda U-Go Electric Scooter
    The regular variant offers a top speed of 53kmph. Suspension duties on the electric scooter are handled by telescopic forks at front and dual shock absorbers at rear with preload adjustability. Braking hardware comprises a disc brake at front and a drum brake at rear. It gets a very accessible seat height of 740mm. More

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    Harley Davidson Pan America 1250 Now In India – Unboxing By Himalayan Harley Dealer

    First Harley Davidson Pan America 1250 In India. Image – Himalayan Harley Davidson, Chandigarh.Harley Davidson Pan America 1250 adventurer tourer will rival the BMW R 1250 GS and Ducati Multistrada V4 series in India
    Harley Davidson unveiled their all new motorcycle, the Pan America 1250 a few weeks ago in the USA. Now, the company is getting ready to unveil the motorcycle in India this Sunday, on 8th August 2021. That is also the day when Harley Davidson India’s Virtual Hog 2021 2.0 is scheduled.
    Ahead of that, the new Pan America 1250 has started arriving at select dealerships across India. One of the first units is now on display at the Himalayan Harley Davidson dealership located in Chandigarh. The dealership has now shared an unboxing video of the new Pan America 1250, which can be seen below.
    Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 – Features
    The new Harley tourer receives several adventure centric styling cues with a tall windscreen, split seating, side slung exhaust, semi fairing design elements and a 21 liter fuel tank. It will ride on alloy wheels as standard and receive tubeless tyres with cross spoke wheels as an option.
    On board features will also include LED lighting, a 6.8 inch colour TFT touchscreen display unit with Bluetooth, heated grips, steering damper, electronically adjustable semi active suspension and a tyre pressure monitoring system. An industry first feature will also include Adaptive Ride Height system which will be offered as an option. The bikes ride on 19 inch front and 17 inch rear alloy wheels.
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    The new Pan America is powered by a 1,252cc, Revolution Max V-Twin engine that offers 150 hp power at 9,000 rpm and 127 Nm torque at 6,750 rpm. These higher RPM figures are achieved due to a short stroke design in place of a long stroke one that offers a two fold increase in rev limit over that seen on Harley’s other V Twins.
    The engine also gets liquid cooling with variable valve timing, double overhead camshafts and 4 valve cylinder head. It gets mated to a 6 speed transmission with slipper clutch. Being built on a front frame, mid frame and sub frame bolt on, this results in lower overall weight standing at 242 kgs and 254 kgs on Standard and Special variant respectively.
    Suspension and braking is via fully-adjustable SHOWA USD fork and monoshock and radial mono-block four piston calipers with 320mm dual front brake and 280mm single brake at the rear.
    Price
    Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 is being presented in two variants of Standard and Special. These priced between Rs 16.90 lakh to 20.26 lakh (ex-showroom, India). It may be recalled that in October last year, Hero MotoCorp and Harley-Davidson announced a partnership for the Indian market. As per the agreement, even as Harley had announced its exit front the country, Hero MotoCorp has taken over distribution rights for all Harley Davidson bikes, parts and merchandise.
    Hero MotoCorp has set up 12 exclusive Harley dealerships and increased its touch points. Around 100 Harley bikes constitute the first batch and also include the new Pan America 1250 adventurer tourer. The other models include Softail, Fat Bob, and Street Bob. The booking process has commenced for all models, which are priced from Rs 10-35 lakh and have been completely pre-booked, showing the outstanding demand that Harley bikes still command in the country. More

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    New Royal Enfield Classic 350 Launch Date 31st Aug – Unofficial Bookings Open

    Image for reference. Credit – Bullet Tower.New Classic 350 will share most of its mechanicals including chassis and engine with Meteor 350
    After a long wait, new-gen Royal Enfield Classic 350 will be available at showrooms soon. It is expected that new Classic 350 will continue to delight users, just like its predecessors. Even though there have been new rivals like Honda CB350, Jawa and Benelli Imperiale 400, Classic 350 continues to lead with a comfortable margin. New-gen Classic 350 will have to take on new rivals including upcoming retro-styled products from Suzuki and Yamaha.
    New-gen Classic 350 design and features
    New Classic 350 continues with the signature retro elements such as round headlamp, tear-drop shaped fuel tank and turn indicators, and broad rear fenders. The motorcycle offers a comfortable riding stance with its mid set foot pegs and ergonomically shaped handlebar. The seats are expected to offer superior comfort. New-gen Classic 350 will be available in both single-seat and dual-seat variants.
    Updated Classic 350 will get new colour options. Based on the theme, the motorcycle could sport a blacked-out look or have chrome-heavy styling. Parts that qualify for chrome finish include the headlamp cowl, turn indicators, handlebar, front and rear suspension, rims, engine and exhaust. Exact details will vary based on the variant and colour.
    In other updates, new Classic 350 gets semi-digital instrument console. It combines an analogue speedometer and a digital display for odometer and fuel indicator. The bike has also been equipped with Tripper navigation system, which displays navigational arrows to the destination. It works when paired with the user’s smartphone via Bluetooth.
    New Gen Royal Enfield Classic 350 Launch Date 31st Aug 2021. Image – Power On Wheel
    New-gen Classic 350 engine and specs
    In terms of performance and ride quality, new Classic 350 will be far superior in comparison to its predecessor. The motorcycle utilizes an entirely new engine and J1D platform. These were first introduced with Meteor 350, which was launched in November last year. The new platform and engine will be used for upcoming new/next-gen 350cc products as well.
    The new 349cc, air-oil cooled, long stroke motor is capable of generating 20.2 bhp of max power at 6100 rpm and 27 Nm of peak torque at 4000 rpm. It is mated to a 5-speed constant mesh transmission. The engine is known for its smooth power delivery and adequate amount of bottom-end torque. With the use of a counter balance shaft, engine vibrations have been reduced significantly.
    New platform for Classic 350 comprises twin downtube spine frame integrated with telescopic forks at front and twin tube emulsion rear shock absorbers. The motorcycle is expected to get option of disc-drum (with single channel ABS) or disc brakes at both ends (with dual-channel ABS).
    Launch date of the new gen RE C350 is set for 31st Aug, 2021. Ahead of that, unofficial bookings have opened at select dealerships for a payment of Rs 10-20k – depending on the dealer. Official bookings have not opened yet. More

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    Royal Enfield Continental GT Electric Motorcycle – Powered By Saietta

    Royal Enfield Electric Motorcycle
    Climate change objectives can be achieved faster with conversion of existing vehicles to electric
    It’s good to know that electric two-wheelers are registering greater acceptability among users. However, sales of new electric scooters alone may take a long time to achieve the goal of 100% electric ecosystem. One also needs to focus on millions of fossil-fuel powered two-wheelers that continue to pollute the environment. The need of the hour is dedicated conversion kits that can be produced on a mass scale, are affordable and can be easily fitted in existing two-wheelers.
    Saietta electric motor for Continental GT
    UK-based Saietta Group specializes in developing electric drive systems for electric vehicles (EVs). It has come up with an electric motor that can be fitted directly onto Royal Enfield Continental GT. A number of tests are currently underway to assess overall performance and viability of converted Continental GT.
    Royal Enfield Electric Motorcycle
    The company has plans to mass-produce the motors, once everything has been fine-tuned and perfected. These motors will also be distributed to Indian OEMs through Padmini VNA. The latter is a leading manufacturer of advanced auto components.
    It is to note that Royal Enfield is in the process of developing its own range of electric motorcycles. These will continue to use the retro theme that can be seen on existing Royal Enfield motorcycles. However, it’s not certain when exactly these motorcycles will be launched. It’s also not certain if Royal Enfield will be able to dominate the electric segment, just as it does in 350cc to 650cc segment. It will be interesting to see how the king of thump performs in a green, silent world.
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    Hero Xtreme electric motor
    Targeting the commuter segment, Saietta has converted a Hero Xtreme with an electric motor. This too has been equipped with a swappable battery system. As compared to charging an electric two-wheeler, a swapping ecosystem offers multiple benefits.
    Hero Xtreme Electric Motorcycle
    Batteries can be swapped within seconds whereas charging can take several minutes even with fast charger. Another benefit is that customers don’t have to invest in buying the battery. They just need to pay for using the battery, which works out much cheaper.
    From a design perspective, it is obvious that converted Continental GT and Hero Xtreme will need some sort of a body kit. In their current form, the motorcycles come across as a work-in-progress unit.
    Hero Xtreme Electric Motorcycle
    Existing users of these motorcycles are unlikely to make the switch to electric until the visual shortcomings are take care of. Even though the motor is an innovative work and pioneering move by Saietta, one cannot completely ignore aesthetics associated with a motorcycle. More

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    TVS Apache Price Hike Aug 2021 – New Price RTR 160, 180, 200, 310RR

    TVS Apache
    TVS has increased prices of its two-wheelers at least twice this year; the first in January
    While price hikes are routine in auto sector, the frequency has been much higher this year. Most OEMs have announced price hikes multiple times since January 2021. Such price hikes have often been attributed to rising input costs and prevailing inflationary conditions. The latest announcement comes from TVS Motor that has increased prices across the range including its popular Apache motorcycles.
    TVS Apache new prices
    Starting with RTR 160, the entry-level Apache motorcycle, prices have been increased by Rs 3k. This is applicable for both drum and disk brake variants of RTR 160. Price of Apache RTR 160 4V has also been increased by Rs 3k. Here too, price hike is same for drum and disk variants.
    Moving up, TVS Apache RTR 180 and RTR 200 4V now cost Rs 4k more. This is applicable across all variants of these motorcycles. Highest price hike is for Apache RR310 that now costs Rs 5k more. New price is Rs 2.55 lakh.
    Even with the price hike, TVS Apache motorcycles continue to be competitively priced in comparison to rivals. Apache motorcycles are among bestsellers in their respective categories. It is unlikely that the recent price hike will have any major impact on sales. Prices of rival products have also increased, so price advantage available with Apache range is proportionately the same as earlier.
    TVS Apache Range New Price Aug 2021. Last price hike was in Apr 2021. All prices ex-Delhi.
    No updates
    Although the company has not provided any specific reason for this latest round of price hike, it can be attributed to rising input costs. There are no updates for any of the Apache motorcycles whose prices have been increased.
    The last price hike announced by TVS was just a couple months back in April. At that time, prices of Apache motorcycles were increased in the range of Rs 45 to Rs 1,295. RR310 was the only Apache motorcycle whose price was left untouched in April.
    RR310 prices have been increased twice this year, first in January and second time in February. In December last year, RR310 was available at Rs 2.45 lakh. As compared to current price, it’s an increase of Rs 10k in a span of around 7 months.
    In view of inflationary conditions, it will not be surprising if TVS announces another round of price hike in the coming months. RR 310 is most likely to get another price hike, as it will be receiving its yearly update. RR 310 primary rival is KTM RC 390, which will also be getting a comprehensive update soon. 2021 KTM RC 390 is expected to be priced at around 2.85 lakh. More

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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