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    2022 BMW Electric Scooter Spied Testing In Production Form

    2022 BMW Electric ScooterBMW Definition CE 04 is expected to make its global debut in production form by the end of this year, however, it is unlikely to head to Indian shores
    It was in November last year when BMW revealed a pre-production concept called Definition CE 04 at the EICMA for the first time. A near-production version of the same has been recently spotted conducting trial runs. This suggests that the electric scooter has moved on from the concept stage to testing stage.
    CE 04 e-scooter is expected to be the first electric vehicle from the Bavarian automaker to run on two wheels. The images of the testing prototype caught on cameras are very similar to the concept version which made its maiden appearance a few months ago. However, it wears subtle cosmetic differences which are expected to creep into the final production-spec model as well.
    Futuristic Design
    That being said, most of the elements from the concept scooter have carried forward to this near-production version. This includes the layered and intricate bodywork with a hint of Ducati Sport 1000 Biposto in its style.
    The front end flaunts a large V-shaped headlamp with integrated LED DRL on the apron along with deep creases and angular lines. The flat floating single-piece seat with a small bifurcation between the rider and pillion also looks like a neat touch.
    2022 BMW Electric Scooter
    With a low-slung seat and forward-set footpegs, the e-scooter provides a cruiser-like laid-back riding posture, although a massive floorboard offers a dual footrest position making it a more comfortable riding experience. The wide and raised handlebar further focuses on a relaxed riding posture. The battery pack and electric motor are cleverly hidden inside the side body panels.
    Handful of modifications over the concept model have been carried out to make the electric scooter road legal. These include mirrors, reflectors, brake lights and a tyre hugger at the rear wheel which houses mudguard-mounted indicators and a number plate. Additional updates are limited to a new rear fender and new body panels.
    Features on offer
    Moving on to the list of features, CE 04 gets a massive 10.25-inch TFT instrument console which is expected to house connectivity options including Bluetooth, phone and music control as well as read out multiple data.
    2022 BMW Electric Scooter
    Other features that are likely to make the cut include keyless operation, navigation and wireless phone charging. Since it will carry a low-mounted battery and a compact powertrain, there is enough space for an illuminated storage compartment that could be used to hold a helmet and other knick-knacks.
    Expected Specifications
    From the spy shots, it appears as if the upcoming CE 04 will be powered by a mid-range electric motor with a belt-driven system instead of a wheel-based BLDC hub motor offered in most contemporary e-scooters. Exact specifications of CE 04 haven’t been revealed yet but it is mostly likely to cater to daily urban commutes. Suspension duties are likely to be handled by a pair of telescopic front forks and offset mono-shock at rear.

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    Bajaj Pulsar Sales, Exports April 2021 – 125, 150, 160, 180, 200, 220F

    Image – The Bengal RiderBajaj Auto Pulsar sales in domestic markets suffered a de-growth while the company made up with positive export numbers
    Bajaj Pulsar is a popular model in the company lineup. Its range currently consists of the 125, 150, 160, 180, 200 and the 220F. The Pulsar range commands a great deal of attention due to its value for money, performance and lower maintenance costs. When taking into account MoM sales of April 21 over that of March 21, it may be seen that the Bajaj Pulsar range has seen a dip in domestic demand while exports increased significantly.
    The most sold Bajaj two-wheeler not only in the Pulsar range but among the company’s entire lineup was the Pulsar 125 which posted 35,891 unit sales in April 21 as against 41,956 unit sold in March 21, with 14.46 per cent MoM drop. The 125 currently commands a 53.90 percent share in its range.
    The Bajaj Pulsar 125 NS is a recent addition to the Pulsar range. It is offered in a single variant and priced at Rs.83,690, which is Rs 20,000 more than the standard Bajaj Pulsar 125.
    Pulsar 150 also noted high sales in April 21 and was the only offering in its segment to post increased MoM sales. Sales increased 7.90 percent to 21,100 units in April 21, up from 19,556 units sold in March 21.
    Bajaj Pulsar Sales and Exports – April 2021
    Pulsar 160, 180 and 200
    Bajaj Auto noted a dip in demand for the Pulsar 160, 180 and 200 in domestic markets. Sales were down 39.01 percent to 5,681 units in April 21, down from 9,315 units sold in March 21. The 220F also suffered de-growth at 12.39 percent to 3,914 units in the past month, down from 5,172 units sold in March 21. This took total domestic sales of the Pulsar brand to 66,586 units in April 21, down from 75,999 units sold in March 21.
    Bajaj Pulsar Exports
    Unlike lower domestic sales, the Pulsar brand performed well in export markets. Shipments stood at 42,537 units in the past month, up 62.01 percent as against 26,256 units exported in March 21. In FY2021, Bajaj Auto noted sales of over 1.25 million Pulsars globally with the company stating that over 80% of its exports come from markets where it enjoys a No 1 or a No 2 position.
    Talking exclusively of Pulsar exports, each of the variants of the Bajaj Pulsar range posted positive growth. However, it was the 160, 180 and 200 noting a tremendous surge in demand to the extent of 179.68 percent to 21,703 units, up from 7,760 units shipped in March 21.
    While MoM demand for the Pulsar 150 increased marginally by 4.43 percent to 14,190 units in April 21, that of the 125 and 220F increased 25.21 percent and 57.51 percent respectively. 125 exports stood at 4,212 units in April 21, up from 3,364 units exported in March 21 while 220F exports increased to 2,432 units, up from 1,544 units shipped in March 21. More

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    2021 Honda CB300R BS6 Launch Expected Soon – 8 Units Dispatched In April 2021

    Image – TECHNICAL DOCKSThe BS6 updated Honda CB300R is expected to be second-most affordable in the BigWing India lineup
    Honda Motorcycles & Scooters India (HMSI) entered the 350cc segment recently with the launch CB350 and CB350 RS. Despite being available in limited numbers through Honda’s premium channel of BigWing dealerships, the bike has garnered good sales.
    It should be noted that before the CB350 twins, CB300R was actually the highest selling two-wheeler retailed by the Japanese brand through its BigWing dealerships. The bike was launched in 2019 and had to be discontinued last year thanks to the stringent BS6 emission norms adopted since April 1, 2020.
    However, the naked roadster is now expected to make a comeback in its latest iteration with a BS6 updated engine. For April 2021, a total of 8 units of the CB300R have been dispatched by Honda Two Wheelers in India.
    Honda is currently looking to expand its footprint in the premium motorcycle segment by launching new BigWing dealerships in coming future. While CB350 has given them a good start, the introduction of CB300R might further help the increasing BigWing dealerships to establish themselves in the premium motorcycle space.
    2021 Honda CB300R
    Mechanical Details
    The new CB300R will be powered by an BS6 updated 286cc liquid-cooled, DOHC, single-cylinder engine. In its BS4 iteration it put out 31.4 bhp and 27.5 Nm of peak torque. This unit will be mated to a six-speed gearbox. It also gets a counterbalance shaft which makes the rumble of the engine smooth.
    When it comes to dynamics, suspension duties are handled by 41mm telescopic fork at front and Pro-Link single shock at rear. Braking is taken care of by discs of 296mm at front and 220mm at rear wheel assisted by dual-channel ABS.
    Styling
    Speaking of its design, it sports a Neo-Sports Café styling with most of its inspirations taken from its older sibling- CB1000R. This is evident in the blacked-out hardware which complements a modern bike with traditional Neo-Sports Cafe styling. It gets a tapered aluminium handlebar although the riding position remains upright. It features a retro style round LED headlamp. The LED taillights mounted are the thinnest ever used in a Honda motorcycle.
    Expected Price
    In all likelihood, the CB300R will be positioned above CB350 since the naked streetfighter will likely be brought via the CKD route. The BS4 version of CB300R was retailed at a price of Rs 2.42 lakh (ex-showroom, India). Thanks to recent increase in prices of vehicles, one can expect the CB300R to be priced above Rs 2.5 lakh, ex-sh. Once launched, it will rival the likes of KTM Duke 250 / 390, BMW G310R, etc in the price range of 2.5-3 lakh.
    It will be interesting to see the increase in price since apart from the upgradation of the engine, there are other changes expected on the new CB300R (new colour schemes). There has been no word from Honda yet regarding its launch timeline, but considering that dispatches have started, launch could take place in the coming weeks. More

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    Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 Limited Edition – First Look Walkaround

    New Royal Enfield 650 Interceptor Limited EditionBoth 650cc Twins from Royal Enfield were given a mild makeover earlier this year which included new colour schemes and subtle cosmetic updates
    Not only in India but Royal Enfield 650cc Twins have gained a cult status in several overseas markets as well. In November last year, we had reported that the iconic motorcycle brand had launched limited edition models of Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650 in Italy in association with its sole distributor partner Valentino Motor Company (VMC).
    The special models were introduced to mark the company’s five years of association with VMC. Six new colour options for Interceptor and four paint schemes for Continental GT were introduced in this limited edition model. In addition to this, there are other aesthetic variations in comparison to the standard model.
    Cosmetic Upgrades
    A unit of this special edition model of Interceptor was recently caught on camera. The bike was wrapped in an elegant Green and Black dual-tone colour scheme which shone brightly under the sun.
    The other five paint schemes on offer in the limited edition Interceptor include Matte Black; Matte Bronze and Black; Matte Military Green and Black; Matte Gray and Black; and Gray and Black. Besides the unique colour schemes, the motorcycles adopt a darker theme with more premium equipment.
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    For instance, all mechanical components have been blacked out including engine casing, exhaust pipe and muffler, handlebars, indicators, brake levers, gear shift pedal and headlight and taillight bezels, wrapped in a matte black scheme. All components lose out their signature chrome embellishments in order to make way for a darker tone.
    Additional Accessories on offer
    Apart from the various colouring on the motorcycle, it also comes with additional fitments such as touring bar-end rearview mirrors, a tall fly screen, fork gaiters in front suspension, aluminum engine bumpers, throttle body covers, engine crash guard, crossbar covers and matte black intake cover kit. The brake calipers dipped in red colour further add a nice sporty contrast to the bike’s overall retro appeal.
    Among other exclusive accessories, VMC is also offering Öhlins shock absorbers, Andreani Group branded fork cartridges and exhausts from Zard in these limited edition models. One can opt for Öhlins shock absorbers with multi-adjustable front cartridges from Andreani at an additional cost of 1,000 euros (INR 87k). On the other hand, the slip-on exhausts from Zard can be availed at an extra 600 euros (INR 52k).
    Engine Specs
    The special edition Interceptor 650 has been priced at 8,200 euros (INR 7.1 lakh) while the Continental GT has been priced at 8,500 euros (INR 7.36 lakh). No changes have been to their engine specifications and both motorcycles share the same heart. Both are powered by a 649cc parallel-twin motor which kicks out 47 bhp at 7250 rpm and 52 Nm of peak torque at 5250 rpm. This unit is coupled with a 6-speed gearbox with a slipper and assist clutch for quick and smooth shifting. More

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    Honda Activa, Hornet, Grazia To Get Bluetooth Connectivity Via RoadSync ?

    Image – Takuli’s TalkBluetooth connectivity is in demand and can influence customer purchase decisions
    If we look at Honda’s rivals such as Suzuki, Hero MotoCorp and TVS, they all have introduced Bluetooth for several of their two wheelers. Honda also offers Bluetooth connectivity, but it’s available only with bigger capacity two wheelers such as H’ness CB350, Forza 350, Forza 750, X-ADV and CB1000R. To match rival offerings, Honda may introduce Bluetooth connectivity for most of its 125cc and above models.
    Honda RoadSync trademark approved
    Honda’s trademark application for RoadSync has been approved in India. This indicates that Honda may soon introduce it in select two wheelers. It is expected that most Honda two wheelers with semi-digital and digital instrument console could get Bluetooth connectivity in future. Products that match the criteria include Activa 125, Grazia, X-Blade and Hornet 2.0.
    For introducing RoadSync Bluetooth connectivity suite, Honda can launch newer variants that have this feature. Or the company can provide this as an optional feature to customers. Both ways, the choice will be with the customer whether or not they want to have Bluetooth connectivity.
    The young brigade and the working class would surely want to have Bluetooth connectivity. Fiddling with the phone while riding a two wheeler is not only dangerous, but can also attract fine. With Bluetooth connectivity, a number of tasks can be made handsfree. It also ensures that one doesn’t have to stop every time something flashes on the screen.
    Honda RoadSync Trademark Filed In India
    However, there could be customers who may have little use of Bluetooth connectivity. The latter group would probably want to avoid paying additional money for Bluetooth connectivity. Talking about how much Bluetooth variants will cost, the estimate is up to Rs 5,000 more than non-Bluetooth variants.
    Honda RoadSync features
    Internationally, Honda RoadSync works with Honda two wheelers that have Honda Smartphone Voice Control system. It works in conjunction with the RoadSync app, which is currently available only for Android.
    When connected to the user’s smartphone, a range of features can be accessed via a Bluetooth headset. For example, one can make and receive calls, access text messages, reply to text messages via voice commands, get directions via Google Maps and listen to music. The idea is to provide a handsfree experience as far as possible.
    For the Indian market, RoadSync may not have the voice commands feature. Rest other features such as calling, music and turn-by-turn navigation may be available. Exact details will be revealed soon when Honda makes an official statement. More

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    Suzuki Sales, Exports April 2021 – Access, Burgman, Gixxer, Intruder

    Image – AUTO TRAVEL TECHEvery two wheeler manufacturer in India with the exception of Suzuki has reported negative MoM growth in April 2021
    The second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, the ongoing lockdown, lack of enthusiasm among buyers in the country and the very dismal economic conditions that the country is facing at the moment, have all led to poor two wheeler domestic sales in April 2021.
    Every two wheeler maker in the country has reported MoM de-growth with the exception of Suzuki. Total two wheeler domestic sales stood at 9,53,338 units in April 2021, as compared to 14,43,320 units in March 2021 leading to a 33.95 percent MoM de-growth.
    Suzuki Domestic Sales
    Suzuki Motorcycle India Private Limited, a subsidiary of Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan, two wheeler lineup currently includes the new Hayabusa, V-Strom 650 XT, Gixxer SF 250, Gixxer 250, Gixxer SF, Gixxer, Intruder, Access 125 and Burgman Street. The company has posted positive growth both in domestic and global markets in the first month of the new financial year.
    Domestic sales grew by 6.07 percent to 63,879 units in April 21, up from 60,222 units sold in March 21. The leading model in the company lineup was the Access scooter, of which the company sold 53,285 units in the past month.
    Suzuki Sales, Exports April 2021
    This was a growth of 9.48 percent over sales of 48,672 units sold in March 21. The Access scooter currently commands a 83.42 percent share. It is offered in seven variants which also include the two recently launched models with Bluetooth connectivity. No other model in the company lineup was able to cross the 10,000 unit sales mark.
    At No.2 was the Suzuki Burgman Street scooter, posting a MoM de-growth of 9.77percent to 8,154 units, down from 9.037 units sold in March 21. Suzuki is currently testing the electric version of the Burgman Street which, once launched, will compete against the likes of Bajaj Chetak, Ather 450X and the TVS iQube.
    Suzuki Gixxer and Intruder sales increased 4.51 percent and 29.41 percent respectively. Sales of the Gixxer which had stood at 2,019 units in March 21 increased to 2,110 units in April 21. Likewise, Intruder sales went up from 136 units in March 21 to 176 units in the past month posting the highest percentage growth as against any other model in the company lineup. The Gixxer 250 on the other hand noted de-growth of 62.85 percent to only 133 units sold in April 21.
    The Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT entered the sales charts in April 21 with sales of 21 units while the new Suzuki Hayabusa was launched in India on April 26, 2021, with the first batch of 101 units booked within two days of opening bookings.
    Suzuki Exports April 21
    Reporting positive growth in terms of exports, Suzuki exported 13,970 units in April 21, up 45.67 percent over 9,590 units shipped in March 21. Suzuki Burgman and Gixxer were the two bikes that commanded the most attention in global markets with Burgman posting MoM growth of 480.14 percent with 6,602 units exported in April 21, up from 1,138 units in March 21. Gixxer MoM growth stood at 8.98 percent while exports of Gixxer 650 and Lets dipped substantially. The Suzuki Access and Intruder entered the export list with 140 and 64 units shipped respectively. More

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    2021 Triumph Bonneville Bobber India Launch Price Rs 11.75 L

    2021 Triumph Bonneville Bobber
    Along with several feature and colour updates, the biggest change on the 2021 Bonneville Bobber is its BS6 compliant 1200cc high torque engine
    Triumph Motorcycles has updated its 2021 lineup of the Bonneville series and the Bonneville Bobber is a part of this update. The new Bobber gets enhanced features, new colour schemes and most of all an updated engine that now complies with the latest (Euro5 and BS6) emission norms worldwide.
    Triumph Bonneville Bobber is priced at Rs 11.75 lakh pan India. The Bobber is being sold in three colours of Matte Strom Grey with Matte Ironstone (Rs 12.05 lakh), Cordovan Red (Rs 11.88 lakh), and Jet Black (Rs 11.75 lakh) along with updated equipment and technology that sets it apart from its earlier counterpart.
    Features and Instrumentation
    2021 Triumph Bonneville Bobber gets blacked out elements and updated features that will allow for worldwide acceptance. These include steel fenders with a central ridge and return edge, flat bars and adjustable levers, a sculpted top yolk, rubber gaiters and a side mounted ignition barrel. It also gets blacked out bar end mirrors, LED bullet indicators and a new full LED headlamp and LED DRLs.
    Ride position is comfortable as it is adjustable with the seat being moved up and forward or down and backwards depending on rider choices. The instruments are also adjustable for better accessibility. Blacked out engine cover, cam cover and sprocket cover also enhance the looks of the new Bobber. It now sports a 12 liter fuel tank thereby resulting in 33 percent added range.
    2021 Triumph Bonneville Bobber
    The instrument cluster with a multi-function display unit is controlled via a handlebar mounted scroll button. It gets a new dial face with silver markings and integrated warning lights.
    The new Triumph Bobber rides on 16 inch fat wheel in the front and 47mm front fork with a wider rear wheel set up with Avon Cobra tyres that have been specially designed for the Bobber consisting of lightweight material for better manoeuvrability and best in class stability.
    Engine, Transmission and Braking
    2021 Bobber is powered by a 1200cc twin engine. This new engine offers 78 hp power at 6,100 rpm and 106 Nm torque at 4,000 rpm mated to a 6 speed gearbox. The engine complies with Euro 5 standard with lower levels of emission and higher fuel efficiency. It gets ride by wire system and two riding modes of Road and Rain and adjustable throttle response and traction control settings.
    Braking is via premium Brembo 2 piston calipers and twin discs in the front and single disc set up at the rear. ABS along with switchable traction control are also on offer for added rider’s safety. Triumph has also offered the Bobber with a longer service interval of 10,000 miles or 16,000 kms relating to a lower cost of ownership. More

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    Piaggio Electric Scooter First Photos Revealed Ahead Of Global Debut

    Piaggio Electric Scooter
    Piaggio One Electric scooter targets a younger set of buyers and will go on sale in Europe from June this year
    The unveiling of the new Piaggio One electric scooter took place on TIK-TOK, indicating its target group as the younger audience. Its unveiling drew attention to some on board features while technical details remained hidden and could be revealed at the global debut being held on 28 May at 2021 Beijing Motor Show.
    Piaggio One Features
    Piaggio One is the second electric scooter from the Piaggio Group after the all-electric Vespa Elettrica, that was showcased at the 2020 Auto Expo earlier last year. The new Piaggio One electric scooter is lightweight and boasts of minimal body work and borrows features from various other models from Piaggio, Aprilia and Vespa.
    It gets all LED lights with twin LED lights in the front with DRLs and LED tail lamps with turn indicators. It also receives a digital instrument cluster, keyless start system, a wide seat with sufficient under-seat storage, pull out foot pegs and a wide foot board.
    A dual paint scheme, 10 inch alloy wheels, twin shocks at the front and rear and disc brakes are also a part of its on board features. Piaggio One will also receive a full digital colour instrument display with sensors to adjust screen brightness according to light conditions.
    Piaggio Electric Scooter
    Though no specs are revealed, it is learnt that the Piaggio One will get two riding modes with Eco Mode for extended range and Sport Mode for more enthusiastic riders. The battery would be a removable Li-ion unit allowing for indoor charging.
    Piaggio One will be offered with varying power and torque outputs and the company has also revealed that it would contain two motor maps for changing power delivery and range.
    Piaggio One in India
    Set to make its official debut at the at 2021 Beijing Motor Show on 28th May, the Piaggio One is scheduled to go on sale from the end of June. Launch in India is not announced as on date as the company only retails scooters under the Vespa and Aprilia brands. Piaggio India currently sells a total of 7 scooters under the Vespa brand. These scooters are in a range of engine options of 125cc and 150cc.
    Piaggio Electric Scooter
    However, with it being announced as a ‘global project’ launch in India is not completely ruled out. If launched in India, the Piaggio One will compete with the TVS iQube, Bajaj Chetak and the Ather 450X in the electric scooter segment. More