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    Benelli’s Parent Company Unveils New 350cc Fully Faired Motorcycle

    QJ Motor’s SAI 350QJ Motor Sai 350 gets a fairly simple yet aggressive design which broke covers at the Beijing Motor Show earlier this year for the first time
    Benelli’s parent company, QJ Motor has started dispatching its upcoming faired motorcycle Sai 350 to dealerships across China. A pre-production Concept of the same was first revealed at the Beijing Motor Show earlier this year. Additionally, a couple of months earlier, a leaked patent image of the upcoming superbike was floating around the internet.
    The design leaked in the patent image and showcased at the Beijing Motor Show is in line with the final production-spec model which has arrived at dealerships. From the looks of it, the styling of Sai 350 is reminiscent of its Japanese supersport counterparts.
    Sporty Design
    Upfront the bike gets a sharp fascia complemented by a short visor and vertical LED strip in between. The twin-beam LED headlamp gives the bike an aggressive appeal commonly seen in contemporary sports bikes. It further gets accentuated with a muscular fuel tank and extended shrouds. The front end is reminiscent of BMW S 1000 RR whereas its point tail section with high-set scooped panels resembles Yamaha R15 V3.0.
    Air scoops at both front and rear ends of the motorcycle make it aerodynamically enhanced. The bike sports contrasting body panels that extend from the rear edges of the headlights to divide the fairing into distinct upper and lower sections. The aggressive styling of the bike is complemented by a committed riding posture with a clip-on handlebar and rear-set footpegs. Overall, the motorcycle looks like a proper sports bike.
    QJ Motor’s SAI 350
    Well Equipped
    Like most other sports bikes in this space, Sai 350 is fairly well-kitted. It features an all-LED lighting setup, backlit switchgear, a USB charging port and a hazard light switch. The bike also flaunts a fully coloured digital instrument console which comes with two light-sensing display modes, a tyre pressure display function and Bluetooth connectivity with smartphone screen projection function.
    Engine & Hardware Specifcations
    Coming to its specifications, Sai 350 is powered by a 353cc twin-cylinder which kicks out 36.7 bhp at 9000rpm and 31 Nm at 7000rpm. In comparison, TVS Apache RR 310 is just 3 horses and 4 Nm shorter than the Chinese counterpart despite being less in displacement and a single-cylinder motor. However, Sai 350 misses out on multiple riding models unlike RR 310.
    Hardware configurations of Sai 350 feature a suspension setup comprising a chunky USD fork at front and a mono-shock at rear attached to an aluminium swingarm. Braking duties are handled by twin 250mm discs up front with axial calipers, and a single 240mm disc at rear. These are assisted by a dual-channel ABS as standard.
    It is well known that premium motorcycles from QJ Motor are rebranded as Benelli for international markets. The same might not be the case with new Sai 350. In India, Benelli has plans to launch the new 302R instead.

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    2022 Yamaha R15 V4 Spied Testing In India – Gets New Front Styling

    Image for reference
    Currently, Yamaha YZF R15 V3.0 is priced starting at Rs 1.54 lakh (ex-showroom)
    Yamaha R15 is a go-to machine for everyone seeking an entry-level sports bike. The motorcycle is currently in its third generation now and still remains an instant crowd puller. Hence, every time it is on the news, it creates a buzz in the market. In this instance, the news is as big as it can get for R15 fans.
    It appears that Yamaha has finally started testing the upcoming fourth generation R15 in India. A video uploaded on YouTube by Abhinav Bhatt indicates the same. The recent spy video was reportedly shot near New Delhi in which a couple of test mules can be seen wrapped under full camouflage.
    New R15 V4 Spy Video
    Since both prototypes are in the move, it is difficult to get a hold of a clear image of its design. The faired superbike retains its upright tail section as well as the vertically oriented LED headlights with split pillion grab rails acting as winglets flanked on both sides from the current-gen R15 V3.0.
    The most drastic update in the new generation model is expected to be the redesigned front fairing which could provide the new R15 a fresh appeal from its front and side angle. Below is the latest spy video, showing the new Yamaha R15 V4 on test in India for the first time.
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    The front face seems heavily revised and seems to draw inspiration from its elder sibling R7 which also received a major upgrade earlier this year. Unlike the dual-LED headlamp setup of the current R15, the upcoming new-gen R15 will feature a single-pod LED headlamp with integrated LED DRLs.
    We get to spot a riding posture that looks just as committed as the current R15 thanks to small clip-on handlebars and a higher seat with footpegs positioned slightly towards the rear. The bike will continue to offer a split seat setup while the pillion sits quite high due to a raised tail section. Most of the other features are expected to remain similar to the current model as well.
    Expected Specs & Features
    The new-gen R15 will continue to be powered by the same 155cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine which is paired with a six-speed gearbox with a slipper and assist clutch as standard. This powertrain in its present state returns an output of 18.5bhp and 14.1 Nm of peak torque. Output figures are unlikely to change in the upcoming model. This engine gets Variable Valve Actuation (VVA), which optimises power delivery throughout the rev-range.
    As for cycle parts, we do hope Yamaha provides the new-gen R15 with USD forks at front just like the current international-spec model. However, the test models did not show signs of USD front forks which could be a huge bummer. More details are expected to come our way in the near future. More

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    New Hero Maestro Edge 125 Launched – LED Headlamp, Bluetooth, Digital Speedo

    2021 Hero Maestro EdgeHero MotoCorp offers updated Maestro Edge 125 at a starting price of Rs 72,250 and goes up against TVS Ntorq 125
    Hero MotoCorp first launched its premier scooter brand Maestro in India back in 2015 along with the Duet. While the latter has been discontinued since April last year, the Maestro Edge brand continues to be a strong seller for the two-wheeler company. The scooter is sold in two engine configurations- 110cc and 125cc.
    The latter made its debut in February 2020. The largest two-wheeler manufacturer has now updated the 125cc iteration of Maestro Edge. It comes with mild cosmetic updates which includes new body graphics and colour options. It also gets new features.
    Updated Styling
    Overall design is retained as it gets the same design from the current model. There are subtle feature upgrades such LED headlight, a sportier front apron and sporty colour combo which make the scooter look more attractive.
    It will continue to feature 12-inch black alloy wheels and a textured single-piece seat. In terms of features it gets first-in-segment projector LED Headlamp, fully digital speedometer, Bluetooth connectivity with call alerts and turn-by-turn navigation, Hero Connect and new sharper design features.
    2021 Hero Maestro Edge
    Available in exciting new colors at Hero MotoCorp customer touch-points across the country, the Maestro Edge 125 is attractively priced at Rs. 72,250/- (Drum variant), Rs. 76,500/- (Disc variant) and Rs. 79,750 (Connected variant). All prices are Ex-Showroom, Delhi.
    Specifications & Features
    There would be no changes in terms of its specifications. It will be powered by a 124cc single-cylinder air-cooled motor that is capable of producing 9 bhp at 7,000rpm and peak torque of 10.4 Nm at 5,500rpm.
    This unit is paired with a V-Matic CVT gearbox. In terms of hardware, suspension duties are handled by telescopic forks upfront and a mono-shock at rear. Braking is carried out by drum brakes at both ends as standard with an option for a disc brake at front.
    2021 Hero Maestro Edge
    Other features on offer include an external fuel filler cap, under-seat USB charging, Hero’s Integrated Braking System and i3s engine start/stop system. Maestro Edge 125 is offered in three trims- standard, front disc and Stealth Black, the last one being an additional colour variant with a front disc. The scooter is offered in six standard colour options including Pearl Fadeless White, Matte Red, Matte Vernier Grey, Matte Techno Blue, Matte Brown, and Prismatic Purple.
    Malo Le Masson, Head of Strategy and Global Product Planning, Hero MotoCorp, said, “The Maestro Edge 125 has been a key player in the 125cc scooter segment. In this latest avatar, we have sharpened its ‘Edge’ further with LED Projector headlamp, Digital Speedometer, Turn-by-Turn Navigation and Bluetooth connectivity. This scooter has it all. These upgrades are part of our overall portfolio push to provide more technology and features to our customers.” More

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    Ola Electric Scooter 10 Colour Options Officially Revealed

    Ola Electric Scooter ColoursThere could be significant demand for Ola electric scooter, as petrol prices touch new highs
    With multiple best-in-class and segment-first features, Ola electric scooter could provide a major boost to electric two-wheeler segment. Ola Electric has been executing its plans at a fast pace. Phase I of its plant in Tamil Nadu is expected to be completed soon.
    When all phases are complete, the manufacturing facility will be capable of producing 10 million units per year. In view of the huge capacity, it is apparent that Ola has plans to take its electric scooter to global markets as well.
    Bookings are now open for the scooter for Rs 499. Interested folks can visit Ola Electric website to place their booking. With its massive production capacity, it is hoped that customers won’t have to wait long to get delivery. Ola will not have a dealer network, and will be delivering their scooters direct to the home of the buyer.
    Ola electric scooter colours
    Ola electric scooter is based on Etergo Appscooter, which is manufactured by Netherlands-based Etergo BV. The company was acquired by Ola Electric last year in May. By using an existing product, Ola Electric has been able to significantly reduce its time to market. Required changes have been introduced for the scooter to make it suitable for Indian ride conditions and match user preferences.
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    It will be offered in a choice of 10 colour options, which have now been officially revealed. Focused on utility, Ola electric scooter has a sober design. Body panels are largely plain and don’t have any fancy graphics or other styling bits.
    The scooter can be best described as compact and cute. The latter comes largely from the droid-inspired front apron that has dual-LED headlamp setup. Integrated U-shaped tail lamp and turn indicators at the rear is another differentiating factor.
    Ola electric scooter specs and features
    Although details about battery pack and electric motor have not been revealed, Ola has said that its scooter will have segment-leading range. If we talk about rivals like Ather 450X, TVS iQube and Bajaj Chetak, all of these have claimed range of less than 100 km.
    We can also get an idea based on available information that Ola electric scooter can be charged to 50% in around 18 minutes. This adds 75km to the range. So, the full range at 100% charge could be around 150 km.
    Talking about features, Ola electric scooter is equipped with app-based keyless entry, full-LED lighting, disc brakes at the front, fast charging capability and biggest-in-class boot space. The scooter will also get a range of internet connected smart features.
    Ola is expected to be competitively priced, which will motivate more customers to switch to electric. With its advanced manufacturing facility, Ola should be able to reduce production costs and pass on the benefits to its customers. Price will be revealed at the time of launch. More

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    2021 Yamaha Fascino 125cc Launch Price Rs 70k – Gets Bluetooth Features

    2021 Yamaha Fascino HybridYamaha Fascino 125 competes against the likes of Honda Activa 125, Hero Destini 125, Maestro Edge 125 and TVS NTorq 125
    Yamaha may not have an extensive range of scooters nor are they instant crowd pullers but like all machines from the Japanese bikemaker, they are reliable and easy to drive. The company recently updated Fascino 125 FI with some new features on board and now revealed the updated prices.
    The 125cc scooter is now offered at a starting price of Rs. 70,000 and goes up to Rs. Rs 76,530 (both prices ex-showroom) for the top-spec disc brake variant. Yamaha retails four variants of Fascino 125 namely Standard Drum brake, Dlx – Drum Brake, Standard – Disc Brake and Dlx – Disc Brake.
    It is offered in nine colour options in total including Vivid Red, Vivid Red Special, Matte Black Special, Suave Copper, Metallic Black, Cyan Blue, Cool Blue Metallic, Yellow Cocktail and Dark Matte Blue.
    Fascino Specs
    The scooter derives its power from a 125cc single-cylinder air-cooled fuel-injected motor that returns an output of 8 bhp at 6500rpm and a peak torque of 9.7 Nm at 5000rpm. While output figures might be very modest, at a nimble 99 kilos, the motor certainly does not feel any strain.
    2021 Yamaha Fascino Hybrid
    Suspension duties are handled by telescopic forks at front and a mono-shock at rear while anchorage is handled by a 190mm disc or a drum unit upfront, along with a drum at rear supported by CBS as standard. It rides on 12-inch front and 10-inch rear alloy wheels shod by 90-section front and 110-section rear tubeless tyres respectively.
    Features on offer
    As far as features go, the 125cc motor is equipped with Yamaha’s Blue Core technology which features a silent starter. Additionally, the scooter has recently been equipped with a hybrid technology featuring a Smart Motor Generator (SMG) System. The SMG acts as an electric motor to give a power assist when accelerating from a stop, thus, reducing insecurity caused by the wobble during start-outs during stop-and-go traffic or uphill climbs.
    The power assist system is cancelled three seconds after starting or when the throttle is cut back or when the engine rpm exceeds the prescribed level. This technology helps in conserving 16 percent more fuel. In addition, Yamaha is now offering a new digital instrument cluster that is compatible with Bluetooth enabled Yamaha Motorcycle Connect X app. This feature allows the rider to access a host of information such as Riding History, Locate My Vehicle, call and text alerts, etc.
    Other features include a multi-function key with seat opener function, a side-stand engine cut off, a foldable convenience hook, an optional under-seat USB charger, an LED headlamp (for top-spec variant only) and an idle start-stop system. However, it misses out on under-seat storage lighting. More

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    TVS Sales, Exports Breakup June 2021 – Apache, XL100, Jupiter, Ntorq

    Image – The Bengal RiderDomestic two-wheeler sales of TVS Motor Company in June 2021 was 145,143 units as compared to 1,38,802 units in June 2020
    TVS Motor Company has registered 2,37,038 units of two-wheeler sales (domestic and exports) in June 2021 as against 1,83,967 units (domestic and exports) registered in the same month of 2020. In domestic market, the company registered a 4.57 percent YoY sales growth to 1,45,142 units sold in June 2021 as against 1,38,802 units sold in June 2020.
    Domestic Sales Breakup
    It was only the Apache and Sport models that noted increased sales while every other two wheeler in the company portfolio posted de-growth. Apache sales increased 112.64 percent YoY to 30,233 units in June 2021, up from 14,218 units sold in June 2020. The Apache holds a share of 20.83 percent. Domestic sales of TVS Sport surged 65.26 percent YoY to 10,755 unit in the past month, up from 6,508 units sold in June 2020.
    TVS XL, Ntorq, Radeon, Star City, Pep and all suffered de-growth while Zest and iQube added 2,274 units and 639 units respectively to June 2021 sales. This was the highest monthly sales reported by iQube till date.
    MoM sales increased 178.67 percent from 52,084 units sold in May 2021 to 1,45,143 units in June 2021. In this case it was positive growth seen across all models in the company portfolio with Apache, XL, Sport and Jupiter adding most to total sales.
    TVS Domestic Sales June 2021
    Apache sales increased 52.04 percent MoM from 19,885 units sold in May 2021 to 30,233 units sold in June 2021 while XL sales increased 403.11 percent to 35,897 in the past month from 7,135 units sold in May 2021. Zest and RR310 noted the highest percentage growth MoM at 345.88 percent and 668.29 percent respectively.
    TVS Exports Double in June 2021
    TVS Motor Company has reported a 103.47 percent YoY increase in exports while MoM exports dipped by 9.25 percent. The company exported 91,895 units in June 2021 as against 45,165 units shipped in June 2020. May exports had stood at 1,01,257 units
    TVS Star City 125 found most buyers in global market to the extent of 35,344 units shipped in June 2021 as against 18,002 units exported in June 2020. May exports had stood at 34,341 units. Second in line of exports was the Star City with 83.36 percent YoY growth at 31,177 units in June 2021 as compared to 17,003 units shipped in June 2020. In May, it was at 28,529 units relating to a 9.28 percent MoM growth.
    TVS Exports June 2021
    TVS Apache and Sport also reported good global sales on a YoY basis though MoM exports dipped. Victor exports however, surged in terms of MoM but dipped where YoY exports were concerned. TVS Wego, Jupiter and RR310 do not find much demand in global market. Even as demand in export market continues to meet with outstanding success, the current scenario has led to a scarcity in container availability which is adversely affecting overall export volumes. More

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    Scooter, Motorcycle Owners Will Lose Warranty – If Rear View Mirrors Removed

    Image for reference. Credit- Vishal AhinaveThe Madras High Court passed this favourable ruling on a PIL initiated by Advocate B Ramkumar Adityen
    It is often seen that some two wheeler riders prefer to remove rear-view / side-view mirrors of their vehicles soon after purchase. When asked why they remove, most of them say that by removing mirrors their vehicle looks more stylish. They feel that this adds to vehicle aesthetics. They maybe right, but this throws caution to the wind in terms of safety.
    However, following the new court order, scooter and motorcycle owners who remove the rear view / side view mirrors would have to think twice as it could result in loss of warranty. When assessing statistics of two wheeler accidents, it is seen that a large number of accidents occur due to this factor as riders fail to get a clear view of the approaching traffic from behind them.
    Importance Of Rear View Mirrors
    These mirrors play an important role in allowing the rider to make a calculated judgment when riding a vehicle on a public road. Removal of these put both the rider and other road users at high risk. It was for this purpose that a PIL was moved by advocate B Ramkumar Adityan. He stated that since these mirrors positioned on both sides of the handle, play such a significant role in road safety, that the removal of these should result in cancellation of two wheeler warranty.
    In the affidavit, the Petition stated that the number of two wheelers in the state had increased from 32.14 lakh (8.35 lakh motorcycles, 5.46 lakh scooters and 18.32 lakh mopeds) in 1999 to 2.49 crore (1.57 crore motorcycles, 36.59 lakh scooters and 54.74 lakh mopeds) in 2020.
    Ola Electric Scooter. Image for reference.
    As per the Madras High Court order, headed by Chief Justice Sanjib Banerjee and Justice Senthilkumar Ramamoorthy, the warranty would stand cancelled for any two wheeler minus the rear view / side view mirrors which have been removed purely for aesthetic reasons. The court has also issued directions to the Tamil Nadu Transport Commissioner to pass orders to all two wheeler dealerships. They should caution buyers in terms of warranty which would be declared null and void if they remove the mirrors after purchase.
    Vehicle manufacturers should also include a clause to such effect, the Bench stated. Along with the cancellation of warranty, the petitioner also sought a direction to impose a fine of Rs 500 on those who ride two-wheelers without rear-view mirrors and Rs 1,500 on repeat offenders.
    The order also stated that it was on 9th November 2017 that the Madurai Bench had passed a similar order. Despite this, two wheeler riders were being allowed to ride their vehicles after removing the side / rear view mirrors. Strict compliance to the order should be adhered to which is in accordance with Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.
    Related News on TN Road Accidents
    Activists urge caution as accidents in the state of Tamil Nadu have seen a significant rise since the easing of the lockdown. The state road safety counsel has invited stake holders to discuss ways to reduce such road accidents. Taking the first 5 months of 2021 into account, there were around 7,200 road accidents on highways in the state with 55 percent involving two wheelers. The State Government has identified 317 accident spots on the road and directed local authorities to keep a vigilant eye on rash and negligent driving. More

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    Ola Electric Scooter Buyers Across India Will Get Home Delivery

    Ola Electric ScooterOla Electric scooter is open for bookings – In just 24 hours, it has recorded more than 1 lakh orders
    Ola electric scooter is based on the Etergo Appscooter – a Dutch start-up company that Ola acquired. It will compete with the Ather 450X, TVS iQube, and Bajaj Chetak in the segment. Segment best features is what is being promised by the company with best in class boot space and an app based key for a complete keyless experience.
    Teaser videos released by the company also claim efficient cornering ability and class leading acceleration. The scooters will all LED lighting, a digital instrument cluster and charging facilities will be via a normal home charger that will require no installation. This means that users can charge their e-scooter at home by plugging into regular wall socket.
    Home Delivery Experience
    Apart from offering new age, first in class features – the new Ola Electric scooter will also offer its buyers a new kind of delivery experience. As per a new report by First Post, Ola Electric scooters will be home delivered to buyers across India – without the traditional dealership network.
    This will make delivery faster. It is likely that Ola will be making storage hubs across India to make delivery faster and hassle free. Ola Electric has created a logistics department. This department will be tasked with the delivery process. Right from the booking stage to deliver, this department will help customers.
    Ola Electric Scooter
    All will be done online. From booking to loan application, etc. The Ola team will be there to help buyers at every step. It remains to be seen how the service / spares replacement, etc will be taken care of without the traditional dealers. As per the report, Ola could provide door-step service to customers, and thus completely avoid the task of setting up dealership network. Tesla has this method in place already.
    New Age Scooter For New India
    The Ola electric scooter is likely to be called the Series S, as per recent trademarks filed by the company. Earlier this week, Ola Electric has trademarked 3 names for the upcoming e-scooter that include S1, S1 Pro and Series S. It appears to be that the S1 and S1 Pro could be two variants of the Ola e-scooter with the S1 being the base variant and the S1 Pro a more premium offering. As for the Series S, this can be the name of the entry level Standard version.
    Booking has opened at a down payment of Rs 499 and buyers placing their orders on the olaelectric portal. The booking amount is fully refundable. The company Chief Bhavish Aggarwal had made the announcement via his official Twitter handle that due to heavy demand, the website was facing issues in accepting bookings but that has now been resolved and the booking process has commenced.
    The Ola Electric scooter will be produced from the brand’s new manufacturing facility in Tamil Nadu which will have initial capacity of 20 lakh units per annum. It is into this plant that the company has invested Rs 2,400 crores. The facility is spread over 500 acres and is said to be the largest two wheeler plant in the world and the most advanced Green factory once operations commence. The plant will generate employment for over 2,000 persons initially to go up to 10,000 once it is fully in operation.
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