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    Kawasaki Ninja ZX4R With 400cc 4 Cylinder Engine – Launch Planned ?

    Image for reference
    Currently, at a price of Rs 3.18 lakh (ex-showroom), Ninja 300 acts as the entry-level product of Kawasaki in India
    While Kawasaki is fending off competition from other superbike brands across the globe, the best way to counter them is to press the foot down and launch new attractive products for itself. The iconic Japanese moniker was able to pull a large section of riders by launching its entry-level supersport motorcycle Ninja ZX-25R in Asia and Australia in July last year.
    The range also comprises other middleweight supersport bikes such as Ninja ZX-6R and Ninja ZX-10R. With all three motorcycles widely applauded for their performance and dynamics, rumours suggest that Team Green is now planning to expand the ZX lineup by introducing a new Ninja ZX-4R.
    New Ninja ZX-4R
    Reports indicate that this new Ninja ZX-4R will most likely be based on the smaller ZX-25R instead of the larger ZX-6R in order to keep the cost in check in various markets across the world. Ninja 25-R’s platform could prove to be more cost-effective since it can be extended to accommodate a slightly bigger model. For example, the front alloy wheel can house a dual disc set-up which could double up the anchorage power for ZX-4R.
    Updated Powertrain
    The ZX-4R, like other models in the series, will be powered by a high-revving inline four-cylinder motor but carrying a displacement of 400cc. Murmurs going around claim that this engine has been built by enlarging the bore of the ZX-25R while also adding a new set of crank and pistons.
    Kawasaki ZX25R
    This will be complemented by an updated ECU to ramp up the power and torque output. However, no official output figures have been revealed yet.
    While ZX-25R pushes out 50 bhp, the enlarged motor in ZX-4R could likely churn out 65 horses. This would make it around 20 bhp more powerful than the 400cc parallel-twin motor of the standard Ninja 400.
    Figures like these would put it against the likes of more premium supersport motorcycles such as Aprilia RS660 and the upcoming Yamaha R7. To handle the extra firepower, Ninja ZX-4R could be equipped with more premium hardware.
    Updated Dynamics
    This will include a pair of inverted forks at front, a linked mono-shock at rear, twin front discs with radial calipers and a single disc at rear. It is also likely to offer features like a bi-directional quick-shifter, a traction control system and multiple riding modes as standard. At this point in time, everything is mere speculation but if indeed such a motorcycle based on ZX-25R is in development, it shouldn’t be too long before it comes out. More

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    TVS Apache 160 Supermoto Edition Imagined – Licensed To Thrill

    TVS Apache Supermoto Edition
    RTR 160 is one of the bestsellers for TVS in its Apache range
    One of the popular performance oriented bikes in the county, TVS Apache RTR 160 has proved its mettle on city streets as well as on the racetrack. The bike has undergone several updates over the years and has a dominating road presence in its current form. It has also received a number of functional updates including those related to engine performance and tech features.
    But there’s always scope for making things even better. That’s exactly what ‘Abin Designs’ had in mind when they came up with a Supermoto version of Apache RTR 160. Rendered digitally, the Apache RTR 160 Supermoto edition looks absolutely stunning. It’s an idea that seems worth to be brought to life. Hopefully, a customization shop might take notice and would be interested in executing this project in the real world.
    TVS Apache RTR 160 Supermoto edition key features
    Some striking features that immediately grab your attention include the golden USD front forks, golden brake callipers, knuckle guards, underseat exhaust and wider tyres.
    The headlight section gets a sleek makeover and it packs an extended nose that doubles up as a high rise mudguard. The stock front fenders have been clipped short and painted in black for a sportier look and feel. The design of the windshield has also been updated.
    TVS Apache Supermoto Edition
    In terms of functional updates, the Supermoto edition gets monoshock rear suspension. The swingarm has also been altered for a groovier look and feel. Features and components that have been left untouched include the fuel tank and its graphics, engine cowl, single piece seat, split grab rails, and tail section.
    TVS Apache RTR 160 stock version – engine and specs
    Apache RTR 160 is equipped with a 159.7cc air cooled motor that is capable of generating 15.53 PS of max power at 8400 rpm and 13.9 Nm of max torque at 7000 rpm. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox.
    The bike utilizes a double cradle chassis. It has telescopic front suspension with hydraulic dampers and Monotube Inverted Gas-filled shox (MIG) with spring aid at the rear. Braking duties are performed by 270 mm petal disc at the front. At the rear, the options include 130mm drum or 200mm disc brakes.
    The bike is offered with single channel ABS as standard. This has been tested and perfected on the track. It ensures sharp feedback and optimal control even when negotiating tough corners. TVS Apache RTR 160 prices start at Rs 1.03 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). With the updates, the Supermoto version will apparently be costlier. More

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    Royal Enfield Sales, Exports April 2021 – Classic, Bullet, Himalayan, 650 Twins

    Image – Royal EnfieldWith lockdown restrictions, Royal Enfield sales and exports have turned negative in April
    A total of 48,789 units were sold in the domestic market in April, which is MoM de-growth of -19.76%. Sales during March were higher at 60,807 units. Only Bullet and 650 Twins have positive MoM growth in April.
    The situation is similar in exports, wherein MoM growth is down by -23.38%. A total of 4,509 units were exported in April, as compared to 5,885 units in March. The ones with positive growth are Meteor, Classic and Electra.
    Royal Enfield domestic sales April 2021
    Classic 350 continues to be the top selling product for the company with sales of 23,298 units in April. MoM growth is down by -26.49%, as compared to 31,694 units sold in March. Classic 350 share in sales is at 47.75%. Next is Bullet 350 with sales of 9,908 units in April. MoM sales have registered growth of 2.22%, as compared to 9,693 units sold in March. Share in sales is at 20.31%.
    At number three is Meteor 350 with sales of 7,844 units in April. MoM sales are down by -25.97%, as compared to 10,596 units sold in March. Meteor 350 share in sales is at 16.08%. Next in the list is Electra 350 with sales of 3,631 units in April. MoM sales are down by -26.11%, as compared to 4,914 units sold in March. Share in sales is at 7.44%.
    Royal Enfield sales and exports – April 2021
    Himalayan is at number five with sales of 2,815 units in April. Negative MoM growth for Himalayan is relatively less at just -2.86%. Sales during March were at 2,898 units. Himalayan share in sales is 5.77%. 650 Twins appear to be unaffected by on-going challenges, as MoM sales have zoomed by 27.77%. Sales are up from 1,012 units in March to 1,293 units in April. Share in sales is at 2.65%.
    Royal Enfield exports April 2021
    Himalayan has emerged as the bestseller in overseas markets in April. A total of 1,398 units were exported, which is MoM de-growth of -24.72%. Exports in March were at 1,857 units. Himalayan share in exports is at 31.00%. At number two is Meteor 350 with exports of 1,143 units in April. MoM growth is 28.43%, as compared to 890 units exported in March. Share in exports is at 25.35%.
    650 Twins are placed at third spot with exports of 1,046 units in April. MoM growth is down by -40.70%, as compared to 1,764 units exported in March. Share in exports is at 23.20%. Next is Classic 350 with exports of 724 units in April. MoM growth is up by 6.63%, as compared to 679 units exported in March. Share in exports is at 16.06%.
    At number five is Classic 500 with exports of 185 units. MoM growth is down by -73.23%, as compared to 691 units exported in March. Share in exports is at 4.10%. Next is Electra 350 with 13 units exported in April. MoM growth is up by 333.33%, as compared to 3 units exported in March. Share in exports is at 0.29%. More

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    Top 10 Best Selling Scooters April 2021 – Activa, Access, Ntorq, Pleasure, Dio

    Honda ActivaScooter sales in April 21 grew by 9.02 percent with the Honda Activa topping the list
    Scooter sales in April 21 noted a 9.02 percent MoM growth to 2,66,989 units, up from 2,44,894 units sold in March 21. We are not comparing YoY sales as April 2020 was a month of 0 sales due to the COVID-19 pandemic led lockdown in the country.
    Honda Activa scooter topped the list with sales of 1,09,678 units in April 21, a de-growth of 4.43 percent over 1,14,757 units sold in March 21. The Honda Activa, which currently commands a 41.08 percent share in its segment, is the most popular scooter in India as on date. In the past 20 years a total of 2.5 crore units of the Activa have been sold. It is offered in 110 and 125 cc variants.
    At No. 2 was the Suzuki Access and the only other scooter to cross the 50,000 unit mark in the month of April 21. Sales of the Access were at 53,285 units, a growth of 101.26 percent over 26,476 units sold in March 21. The Access 125 is also a highly popular scooter and regaled for its high level of fuel efficiency and a recent survey conducted online between January–March 2021 saw the Suzuki Access as a winner offering mileage of 64 km/l approx.
    TVS Ntorq at No.3 also gained in terms of MoM sales which increased 117.13 percent to 19,959 units in April 21, up from 9,192 units sold in March 21. The automaker has also announced that the TVS NTORQ 125, has crossed the sales milestone of one lakh units in international markets.
    Top 10 Scooters April 2021
    Even as the Hero Pleasure noted significant growth at 31.66 percent MoM from 13,898 units sold in March 21 to 18,298 units sold in April 21, that of the Honda Dio dipped 41.52 percent, the highest percentage de-growth for any scooter sold last month. Dio sales which had stood at 29,528 units in March 21 dipped to 17,269 units in April 21. Honda Dio has been noting falling sales and suffered a 29 percent de-growth to 3,14,417 units in FY21 as against 4,39,799 units sold in FY20.

    Top 10 Scooters
    Apr-21
    Mar-21
    %

    Honda Activa
    1,09,678
    1,14,757
    -4.43

    Suzuki Access
    53,285
    26,476
    101.26

    TVS NTORQ
    19,959
    9,192
    117.13

    Hero Pleasure
    18,298
    13,898
    31.66

    Honda Dio
    17,269
    29,528
    -41.52

    TVS Jupiter
    15,570
    21,001
    -25.86

    Hero Destini
    9,121
    9,523
    -4.22

    Suzuki Burgman
    8,154
    5,009
    62.79

    TVS Pep+
    8,143
    7,914
    2.89

    Yamaha RayZR
    7,512
    11,972
    -37.25

    Total
    2,66,989
    2,44,894
    9.02

    Jupiter and Destini scooter sales also dipped MoM by 25.86 percent and 4.22 percent respectively while at No.8, the Suzuki Burgman scooter noted substantial increase in sales. Burgman sales had stood at 5,009 units in March 21 but increased 62.79 percent to 8154 units in the past month.
    The Suzuki Burgman Street electric scooter has recently been spied on test and is expected to deliver a range of about 75km on a single charge and have a top-speed of around 65-70km/h.
    Pep+ sales also saw a marginal increase of 2.89 percent MoM, while Yamaha RayZR sales dipped 37.25 percent MoM from 11,972 units sold in March 21 to 7,512 units sold in the past month. Yamaha has suspended production operations at its units in Kanchipuram (Tamil Nadu) and Surajpur (Uttar Pradesh) from May 15-31 and hence sales for the month of May could also be affected. More

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    Benelli Parent Firm Patents New 250cc And 350cc Sports Bike

    New 350cc From Benelli Parent
    Benelli had earlier announced that it will be launching seven new models in India in 2021 out of which three have already been introduced
    The partnership between Italian brand Benelli and Chinese automaker Qianjiang Motor has turned out to be a fruitful one. Since Qianjian has taken over Benelli’s operation, the latter has come out with a wide range of products which are mostly rebadged QJMotor models.
    Since QJMotor’s operations are limited to China, the company sells most of its premium bikes as rebranded Benelli models since the latter has a strong base in international markets. The Chinese counterpart has yet again patented a new model which it might be willing to ship to overseas markets.
    Design
    This new motorcycle is a 350cc supersport motorcycle with a typical faired design. In terms of looks, it features twin-beam LED headlights and a fully faired body. The bike sports contrasting body panels that extend from its rear edges of the headlights to divide the fairing into distinct upper and lower sections. This gives it a hint of resemblance to the final generation Triumph Daytona 675. However, unlike most Chinese auto manufacturers, this one isn’t a completely ripped-off design.
    All lighting seems to be LED units. The bike will be offered in two variants- the lower spec with a single front disc brake and the higher-spec trim with twin rotors at front. For a fully faired 350cc motorcycle, it weighs a manageable 179 kilos. Other notable highlights include a clip-on handlebar, split-style seats and front fairing-mounted rearview mirrors which give an impression of horns.
    New 250cc From Benelli Parent
    Powertrain
    Powering this motorcycle will be a new 353cc twin-cylinder motor which can push out around 36 horses. Suspension duties will be handled by inverted telescopic forks at front and a mono-shock at rear. Will this motorcycle be rebranded as a Benelli in international markets is still a debatable question since Benelli has its own 302R.
    The latter recently got updated in China and the latest iteration is supposed to head towards India in the coming few weeks. It is a question if there is enough space for both QJ 353cc bike and the 302R under Benelli’s lineup.
    Quarter-litre Faired Sportsbike
    The 353cc motorcycle is not the only faired bike recently patented by Qianjiang. There is also another new sports bike that is powered by a 249cc single-cylinder motor. This engine can churn out 27.5 bhp and could weigh only 159kg. This model will also be available in two derivatives. The base trim will be based on a tubular steel frame with a double-sided swingarm whereas the higher-spec model will feature an aluminium single-sider.
    The more premium one will get a fully-floating front disc brake while the cheaper alternative will have to make do with a semi-floater. There will also be differences in the wheels of the two trims. None of the models mentioned above are likely to land on Indian shores anytime soon.
    SOURCE More

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    2022 Yamaha Zuma 125cc Scooter Debuts – Priced At USD 3.7k (Rs 2.7 L)

    2022 Yamaha Zuma2022 Yamaha Zuma 125 gets a range of visual as well as functional updates
    A perfect fit for city streets and light off-roading, 2022 Yamaha Zuma 125 has been unveiled for US market. The scooter was originally launched in 2008 and was last updated in 2016. It is sold in certain Asian markets as well, where it is named Yamaha BW’s 125.
    2022 Yamaha Zuma 125 – what’s new
    Talking about the design first, the scooter looks a lot more rugged as compared to the outgoing model. The body panels have grown a lot more brawn, which adds to the scooter’s dominating road presence. Another key update is the asymmetrical twin-pod headlight. It looks radical and enhances the scooter’s sporty profile. The headlight comes with adjustable beams that users can change as per their needs.
    At the front, 2022 Yamaha Zuma 125 has dedicated space to mount a tall windscreen. This will come handy for folks who may often have to do longer journeys. The scooter is equipped with 12-inch wheels, shod with dual-purpose knobby tyres. It gets a big rack at the rear, which should be capable of handling decent amount of luggage.
    The LCD digital instrument console displays a range of information such as fuel gauge, rpm, and speed. It also has full range of embedded indicator lights. Colour options for 2022 Yamaha Zuma 125 include Team Yamaha Blue and Matte Black. 2022 Yamaha Zuma 125 offers plenty of storage space under the seat. There’s storage space at the front as well, which comes with USB charging port.
    2022 Yamaha Zuma
    2022 Yamaha Zuma 125 engine and specs
    Powering 2022 Yamaha Zuma 125 is a 125 cc, liquid cooled SOHC motor. It is mated to a V-belt automatic transmission. It is equipped with VVA (Variable Valve Actuation), which provides a range of benefits including optimal power delivery.
    With the use of advanced tech and aluminium alloy components, the engine offers greater reliability and improved fuel efficiency. The rated fuel efficiency is 101 miles per gallon (MPG), which is approximately 43 kmpl.
    Suspension system comprises telescopic front forks with 3.2 inches of travel. Dual rear shock absorbers with swingarm offer 3.1 inches of travel. Braking duties are performed by 245 mm disc at the front and 230 mm disc at the rear. The scooter does not get ABS, but is equipped with combined braking system.
    Will India get Yamaha Zuma 125?
    Products like Yamaha Zuma 125 are unlikely to make it here anytime soon. One reason is that high pricing can limit sales numbers. Moreover, the customer base for such products in India is fairly low. As the Indian market matures, it is possible that such products may be launched here at a later date. More

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    Top 10 Motorcycles April 2021 – Pulsar 4th, Apache 6th, Passion 9th

    Image – The Bikers DiaryPandemic effect is clearly evident with all top ten motorcycles registering negative MoM growth
    Top ten motorcycles have lost one-third of their MoM sales in April, down from 8,38,488 units in March to 5,57,004 units in April. This was being expected due to challenges arising from the pandemic and lockdown in several districts.
    Hero MotoCorp dominates
    In numbers game, Hero MotoCorp is way ahead of other motorcycle manufacturers. Hero has four motorcycles in the top ten list; Splendor at first position, HF Deluxe at third, Glamour at seventh and Passion at ninth spot. Honda and Bajaj Auto have two motorcycles each, whereas TVS and Royal Enfield have one each in the top ten motorcycle list of April 2021.
    Splendor continues with its top selling tag, registering sales of 1,93,508 units in April. MoM growth is down by -30.91%, as compared to 2,80,090 units sold in March. Splendor share in sales is at 34.74%. Honda CB Shine is next with sales of 79,416 units in April. MoM growth is down by -32.67%, as compared to 1,17,943 units sold in March. Share in sales is at 14.26%.
    At number three is HF Deluxe with sales of 71,294 units in April. The motorcycle has lost more than half of its sales, as compared to 1,44,505 units sold in March. It is due to this reason that it has shifted down to third spot. Earlier, HF Deluxe was usually ranked at second spot. Share in sales in April is at 12.80%.
    Top 10 Motorcycles April 2021
    Bajaj Pulsar is fourth with sales of 66,586 units in April. MoM growth is down by -12.39%, as compared to 75,999 units sold in March. Share in sales is at 11.95%. At number five is Platina with sales of 35,467 units in April. Platina has lost close to half of its sales as compared to 69,025 units sold in March. Share in sales is at 6.37%.

    Top 10 Motorcycles
    Apr-21
    Mar-21
    %

    Hero Splendor
    1,93,508
    2,80,090
    -30.91

    Honda CB Shine
    79,416
    1,17,943
    -32.67

    Hero HF Deluxe
    71,294
    1,44,505
    -50.66

    Bajaj Pulsar
    66,586
    75,999
    -12.39

    Bajaj Platina
    35,467
    69,025
    -48.62

    TVS Apache
    29,458
    33,162
    -11.17

    Hero Glamour
    23,627
    32,371
    -27.01

    RE Classic 350
    23,298
    31,694
    -26.49

    Hero Passion
    17,748
    30,464
    -41.74

    Honda Unicorn
    16,602
    23,235
    -28.55

    Total
    5,57,004
    8,38,488
    -33.57

    Other motorcycles in the list include TVS Apache (29,458 units), Hero Glamour (23,627), Royal Enfield Classic 350 (23,298), Hero Passion (17,748) and Honda Unicorn (16,602). Overall, max MoM loss in percentage terms is that of HF Deluxe. Motorcycles with relatively lesser MoM loss include Pulsar and Apache (-11.17%).
    Future outlook
    The situation in the next few months is expected to be the same as that of April. The second wave is proving to be a double whammy for the auto sector, which was just getting back on its feet after last year’s Covid wave.
    As uncertainties prevail and business ecosystem remains constrained, the resilience of auto industry will be tested in the coming months. If things could normalize by June-July, it may be possible to make a speedy recovery by end of current fiscal. More

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    Royal Enfield Recalls 2.36 Lakh Motorcycles – Meteor, Bullet, Classic

    Image for reference. Credit – stayaliveRoyal Enfield through a media release assured that it is committed to swiftly implement the recall action
    Royal Enfield has issued a recall of its motorcycles due to a manufacturing defect found in one of the parts used across some of its models. This recall is said to affect as many as 236,966 units of specific models including Meteor 350, Classic 350 and Bullet 350.
    Defect Identified
    In a mail released by the Chennai-based bikemaker, it states that the defect is in the ignition coil that can cause misfiring and reduced vehicle performance. In some exceptional cases, it can even cause an electric short circuit. The defect was uncovered during routine internal testing.
    The company has further stated that has been clearly identified and is limited to only specific batches of material sourced from an external supplier. The recall is set to affect motorcycles manufactured between December 2020 and April 2021.
    Meteor models affected and set to be recalled have been manufactured between the above-mentioned period. While Bullet and Classic models affected have been manufactured and sold between January and April 2021.
    New Royal Enfield Classic
    Recall Process
    Royal Enfield estimates that less than 10 percent of these bikes recalled will require replacement of the suspected part. The motorcycles will undergo inspection and if required, replacement of the said defective part and no extra cost will be charged on the customers.
    Although the iconic brand hasn’t revealed a specific start date for the recall activity, the service teams, and/or local dealerships will begin reaching out to consumers whose motorcycle Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) number falls within the manufacturing period mentioned above.
    Customers can also reach out to their local Royal Enfield Workshops proactively from their end or call Royal Enfield on 1800-210-007 to verify. This recall action will be applicable to Meteor. Classic and Bullet models sold not just in India but in other countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia, Australia and New Zealand as well. The company has reiterated that it has very stringent sourcing protocols and that all its motorcycles are rigorously tested to global validation standards of quality and durability.
    Classic, Bullet, Meteor Specs
    While Classic and Bullet share the same older generation underpinnings and 350cc motor, Meteor 350 is based on the new generation architecture and engine. Classic 350 and Bullet 350 are powered by a 346cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine which produces 19.2 bhp and 28 N of peak torque.
    Whereas, the latest cruiser from Royal Enfield is powered by a 349cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled, long-stroke motor which kicks out 20.2 bhp of power and 27 Nm of peak torque. All three motorcycles are offered with a five-speed gearbox. More