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    Suzuki Gixxer 250, SF250 Recalled In India Over Excessive Vibration Issues

    Suzuki Gixxer 250
    While Gixxer 250 competes against the likes of Bajaj Dominar 250, Yamaha FZ25 and KTM 250 Duke, SF250 competes against Bajaj Pulsar RS 200 and KTM RC 200
    Suzuki Motorcycle India Private Limited has issued a recall for its quarter-litre offerings in the country- Gixxer 250 and Gixxer SF250. The former being a naked streetfighter while the latter being an entry-level faired superbike. The reason given for this recall is that certain customers have felt excessive vibrations on the bike.
    Cause of Recall
    While the official notification issued by the company is difficult to decode, the main synopsis concluded is that excess vibration is felt due to improper positioning of the balancer shaft in the engine. It further says that the incorrect positioning of crank balancer gear drive may lead to two out of the six mounting lugs of taillamp being compromised in worst-case vibration.
    However, the bikemaker has maintained that this would not affect the functioning of the motorcycle in any way. A total of 199 units that were manufactured between August 12, 2019 and March 21, 2021 have been affected by this latest recall.
    Although, there has been no official confirmation sent from Suzuki India to company workshops yet regarding this development. However, it has been revealed that the repair work for this would only take a couple of hours.
    Suzuki Gixxer SF 250
    The Japanese brand is likely to send out notifications to affected customers through emails or text messages. Given, the current situation of rising cases of the Covid-19 pandemic, Suzuki would want customers to schedule an appointment before visiting a workshop in order to ensure minimum waiting time. As usual, the repair activity would be carried out free of cost to the customer.
    Gixxer 250, SF250 Specs
    Suzuki introduced the BS6 compliant Gixxer 250 and Gixxer SF250 last year. Both models are powered by the same 249cc 4-valve SOHC single-cylinder oil-cooled motor that pumps out 26.13 bhp at 9300rpm and 22.6 Nm of peak torque at 7300rpm. These figures are slightly lower than their BS4 counterparts. It is paired with a six-speed gearbox. Both motorcycles also share the same cycle parts.
    They are underpinned by a diamond frame which is suspended on telescopic forks up front and a swingarm-mounted mono-shock at rear. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes at both ends which are assisted by dual-channel ABS. Both receive a 12-litre fuel tank. While Gixxer 250 weighs 156 kilos, its faired sibling weighs slightly heavier at 161kg due to its extra body panels.
    Made in India Gixxer 250 was recently launched in Japan at a price of JPY 4,48,800 ( equivalent to 3.09 lakh). In India, it can be availed at a price of INR 1.67 lakh, ex-sh. More

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    Aprilia SXR 125 Scooter Detailed In First Look Walkaround

    New Aprilia SXR 125. Image – Jet wheelsAprilia SXR 125 draws a strong resemblance to Aprilia’s big bikes like the RSV4 and Tuono V4
    Following the launch of the SXR160 in December 2020, Aprilia now brings in a new premium, lightweight commuter maxi scooter called Aprilia SXR 125. This scooter has made its debut in the Indian two wheeler market and bookings have opened at Rs.5,000 via company site or at any of the authorized Piaggio dealerships in the country.
    The maxi scooter is the first scooter designed in Italy for the Indian market. Just like the SXR 160, the SXR 125 enters production at the Aprilia’s newest plant in Baramati plant in Maharashtra and will be officially available from the end of April. Earlier last month, Aprilia SXR 125 along with SXR 160 went on sale in Nepal markets.
    Aprilia SXR 125 Style and Features
    The new Aprilia SXR 125 will be based on the SXR 160’s platform and follows the same design philosophy. It gets aggressive body styling with a three way split twin front headlamps with full LED lighting system and DRLs, a digital instrument panel with Bluetooth connectivity and large display of all rider information, USB charging port, a large windshield and generous front storage space and lit-up under-seat storage.
    It is also seen with prominent side body panels, body graphics and extensive chrome accents to enhance premium appeal. The new Aprilia SXR 125 gets a single piece seat setup which is well cushioned for rider’s comfort. Take a look at the detailed walkaround video by Jet Wheels below.
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    The SXR 125 dimensions stand 1,985mm in length, 1,261mm in height and 806mm in width. It will be presented in colour options of Matt Black, Glossy White, Glossy Red and Matt Blue and will get a fuel tank of 7 liter capacity.
    BS6 125 cc Engine Specs
    Aprilia SXR 125 will get its power via a 125 cc, single cylinder, 3 valve, fuel injected engine that also powers the SR 125. This engine offers peak power of 9.4 hp at 7,600 rpm and 8.2 Nm peak torque at 6,520 rpm. The engine is mated to a CVT gearbox.
    Braking and suspension are via 220mm front disc and 140mm rear disc brake along with CBS (Combined Braking System) with conventional telescopic forks and monoshock. The SXR 125 will ride on 12 inch alloy wheels fitted with tubeless tyres.
    The new Aprilia SXR 125 will not have any direct rivals when it comes to price. But it can be seen as a rival to the TVS NTorq and the Suzuki Burgman Street in terms of engine capacity. Official price has not been announced, but the company website states that the price is Rs 1.15 lakh. More

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    Hero March 2021 Sales, Exports Breakup – Splendor, Passion, Maestro, Destini

    Hero SplendorHero MotoCorp domestic wholesales and exports growth reported for March 2021
    March 2021 saw Hero MotoCorp report total wholesales at over 5 lakh units. The feat is no ordinary one, and the manufacturer was able to hit the target multiple times through FY21. More than half of its domestic sales cam from Hero Splendor.
    Sales is reported at 2.8 lakh units, up from 1,43,736 units YoY. Volume gain stood at 1,36,354 units. HF Deluxe contributed to a little over 26 percent in sales. Sales is reported at 1,44,505 units, up from 1,14,969 units. Volume gain stood at a little below 30k units at growth of 25.69 percent.
    Hero MotoCorp has a strong grip on the mass market commuter motorcycle market, and this is demonstrated through the sheer volume of its leading two-wheeler lineup. The manufacturer also sells a small number of scooters. While the bulk of its monthly sales is contributed by the success of Splendor and HF Deluxe, the remainder of its motorcycles and scooters make up for the remainder of its sales.
    Glamour, Passion and Pleasure sales
    Hero Glamour, Passion, and Pleasure sales accounted for about 91k units. Glamour sales was up at 32,371 units, up from 12,713 units. Volume gain stood at almost 20k units to account for about 6 percent of domestic sales.
    Hero Domestic Sales – March 2021
    Passion sales grew to just over 30k units from just under 18k units. Volume gain is reported at 12,527 units. It’s share in total sales was also pegged at just under 6 percent. Pleasure scooter sales grew to 28,516 units, up from 13,898 units at volume gain of 14,618 units.
    Destini 125 sales crossed the 14k units mark from a little under 10k units. YoY sales growth stood at 47.47 percent at volume gain of 4.5k units. Maestro sales reached 8k units, up from 3.5k units. Volume gain stood at 4,467 units.
    Xtreme 160R sales stood at 3,840 units. And XPulse 200 sales at 2,485 units. In total, domestic wholesales grew to 5,44,340 units at 12.37 percent YoY growth. Volume gain stood at about 60k units, up from 4,84,433 units.
    Hero Exports – March 2021
    Hero MotoCorp March 2021 exports
    While Hero MotoCorp enjoys great market prominence in India, exports are seemingly low as compared to its closest competitors. This sees Bajaj and TVS enjoy far more volumes in exports though domestic sales remains lower than Hero MotoCorp. HF Deluxe rules the export log at just over 9k units.
    The manufacturer’s biggest volume product Splendor sees exports at 7,106 units. Achiever exports are reported at 4,573 units, and that of Xtreme 150 at 3,319 units. Hunk exports fell to 2,375 units. Pulse 200 exports grew to 2,375 units. The remainder of the export wagon saw numbers below 1,000 units each. Exports for the month grew to 32,617, up from 21,034 units at volume gain of 11,583 units. More

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    Hayabusa First Lot Sold Out In India – Bookings Closed Even Before Deliveries Start

    2021 Hayabusa. Image – Suzuki Europe.Legendary Hayabusa is back with new features and several tech updates – Price in India starts from Rs 16.4 lakh, ex-sh
    After its global unveil, Hayabusa has now been launched in India. The legendary superbike has been a preferred choice for enthusiasts in the country and that is true for the new gen as well. Even before the deliveries can start, the entire first lot of new Hayabusa in India has been sold out.
    Bookings have now been closed across India. A total of 101 units of 2021 Hayabusa were available for India in the first lot. Deliveries of the new Busa will start from mid next month.
    As may be recalled, Hayabusa was discontinued in India and other parts of the world due to new stringent emission norms. At that time, it was believed that Hayabusa will be relegated to history books for good. However, Suzuki has chosen to resurrect the legend, probably based on consumer feedback and market dynamics.
    2021 Suzuki Hayabusa key updates
    New Hayabusa looks sharper, as is evident in the updated front fascia and revised fairing. Other visual enhancements include new LED headlight, sculpted fuel tank, chrome plated twin exhaust and two-part LED tail light. The font used for ‘Hayabusa’ logo is also new, which comes across as bolder and sportier.
    2021 Hayabusa. Image – Suzuki Europe.
    New Hayabusa packs in a range of tech upgrades such as ride-by-wire throttle, traction control, six-axis IMU system, three power mode selector, multi-level engine brake control, ABS cornering package, active speed limiter, six ride modes, launch control and hill hold control.
    New Hayabusa powertrain
    Suzuki has chosen to use the same engine as earlier, a 1340 cc, liquid cooled, inline, four-cylinder unit. The engine has been tweaked to comply with new emission norms, as mandated under BS6 / Euro-5. Addition of new components such as new catalytic converter, fuel intake system and updated exhaust system has played a critical role in achieving emission compliance.
    In its BS6 form, the engine dishes out max power of 187 bhp and peak torque of 150 Nm. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox and equipped with two-way quick shifter. Next-gen Hayabusa will offer fuel efficiency of 18.06 kmpl, which is less than 21.5 kmpl of BS4 model.
    New Hayabusa price
    In the Indian market, new Hayabusa is priced from Rs 16.4 lakh (ex-showroom). This is significantly higher than the last known starting price of Rs 13.70 lakh for BS4 model. New Hayabusa will primarily rival Kawasaki Ninja H2 in the Indian market.
    Considering its wide fan following, new Hayabusa is expected to register strong sales after its launch. Sales number will be available once deliveries start. The BS4 model was entirely sold out, something that is evidence to its iconic status. Initially, new Hayabusa will be imported as CBU. Later, CKD option is likely to be utilized. This is the same process that has been used for other motorcycles. More

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    2021 Yamaha Bolt Cruiser Gets Updated With R-Spec Variant

    2021 Yamaha Bolt R-Spec2021 Yamaha Bolt will be offered in two paint options- Metallic Black or Grayish Blue Metallic
    Yamaha boasts a wide range of motorcycles across a variety of body styles and segments in its international lineup. Unfortunately, this doesn’t hold true for the Indian market as many models have been discontinued in recent years and the Japanese manufacturer is only left with a paltry number of models.
    Meanwhile, its international lineup continues to grow stronger as it has launched an updated version of Bolt in its home market. For reference, the Bolt moniker was first introduced in 2013 as a 2014 model, specifically for the US market. In its upgraded form revealed recently, the big bobber-style cruiser will only be available in the R Spec trim while the base variant has been axed from the lineup.
    Traditional Cruiser Styling
    The new 2021 Bolt R Spec rides on premium 19-inch front and 16-inch rear alloy wheels with a brushed metallic finish wrapped around by tubeless tyres. The base variant, on the other hand, was offered only wire-spoke wheels.
    It flaunts a retro theme styling featuring round headlamps, taillamps, circular instrument cluster and a teardrop-shaped fuel tank. The split-seat design further enhances its bobber stance.
    2021 Yamaha Bolt R-Spec
    Overall, the cruiser features elegant styling which is accentuated by a beautifully styled engine taking centre stage with a polished crankcase and cooling fins. It will be offered in two colour schemes- Metallic Black or Grayish Blue Metallic. The latter also comes with understated body graphics.
    2021 Yamaha Bolt R-Spec
    Hardware Setup
    Hardware configuration of the motorcycle is kept intact. It is built on a dual cradle frame with the front end suspended on a pair of 41mm telescopic forks. While the rear end is suspended on a set of twin gas-charged shocks with gold-coloured external reservoirs. Anchorage is handled by front and rear 298mm petal disc brakes which are assisted by dual-channel ABS. At a kerb weight of 252kg, it surely is a very hefty machine. The fuel tank can hold up to 13-litres of fuel.
    Engine Specs
    Coming to its performance, it is powered by a 942cc V-Twin air-cooled, SOHC, fuel-injected engine that has been rated to return an output of 54 bhp at 5500rpm and 80 Nm of peak torque at 3000rpm. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox that transfers power to the rear wheel via a belt drive just like traditional cruisers. This suggests it is an easy-going cruiser rather than a hustler.
    2021 Yamaha Bolt R-Spec
    The latest iteration Bolt R Spec has been priced at 10,45,000 Japanese Yen which is equivalent to INR 7.14 lakh. Yamaha currently has no plans to ship this model to foreign markets, other than the USA may be. Hopefully, Yamaha brings a cruiser for a smaller segment to India since retro-styled motorcycles have been the flavour of motorcyclists in the country. More

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    2021 Aprilia RS 125 And Tuono 125 Debut In Italy – India Launch Unlikely

    2021 Aprilia Tuono 125New Aprilia RS 125 and Tuono 125 come with visual, functional and engine updates
    Ahead of their launch in international markets, Aprilia has unveiled 2021 RS 125 And Tuono 125. A number of changes have been incorporated to keep the twins relevant to market trends.
    2021 Aprilia RS 125 and Tuono 125 key updates
    The 125cc twins get refreshed bodywork with new paint schemes. With the reworked body panels, the motorcycles look a lot sleeker and aggressive. The headlight assembly has been updated and it looks similar to that of SXR125 and SXR160. The semi-digital instrument cluster has also been replaced with a new fully-digital unit.
    The engine is the same as earlier, but it has been tweaked to comply with Euro 5 emission norms. Even with transition to Euro 5, power output remains the same as earlier at 15.2PS at 10,750rpm. As per European norms, this is the max power output allowed for motorcycles of this class. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox.
    In other changes, Aprilia RS 125 and Tuono 125 get wider rear tyres. The dual-channel ABS system has also been updated. There could be updates to suspension and braking system as well, but these will be confirmed at the time of launch.
    2021 Aprilia RS 125
    Will India get 2021 Aprilia RS 125 and Tuono 125?
    It is unlikely that Aprilia will introduce the 125cc twins in the Indian market. High pricing could be one of the reasons, something that would make the twins out of reach of most customers.
    For reference, we can compare with prices of bigger siblings – RS 660 and Tuono 660. These are scheduled for launch soon. As per a leaked document, prices of RS 660 and Tuono 660 start at Rs 13.39 lakh and Rs 13.09 lakh, respectively.
    Supposing that Aprilia RS 125 and Tuono 125 are launched in the Indian market, they will rival the likes of KTM RC125 and 125 Duke. The latter two would work out much cheaper. Moreover, there won’t be any major difference in performance between KTM 125 twins and Aprilia 125 twins. Due to these reasons, Aprilia may not choose to target the entry-level performance biking segment in India.
    2021 Aprilia
    However, Aprilia has confirmed that it is working on a 300-400cc motorcycle that will be especially designed for the Indian market. It will take on rivals such as KTM RC 390. An exact timeline is not available, but Aprilia’s new 300-400cc motorcycle for Indian market could take more than a year.
    Aprilia’s current focus in India is maxi-scooter segment, wherein the company has planned the launch of SXR125. It’s based on its bigger sibling, SXR160. Pre-order bookings are open for SXR125 for Rs 5k. Aprilia has officially revealed the price of SXR125 at Rs 1.16 lakh, ex-showroom (Delhi). More

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    Bajaj Pulsar Dual Tone Colours Launched As Dagger Edge Edition

    Bajaj Pulsar Dagger Edge EditionBajaj announced special editions of the Pulsar 150, 180 and the 220F
    The Bajaj Pulsar is the company’s hot selling range in India. It accounted for a total of 9,45,978 units in FY 2021. The new Pulsar NS125 was recent added to the lineup and now the company has introduced the special Dagger Edge editions to boost sales.
    Dagger Edge editions are on offer with Pulsar 150, Pulsar 180 and the Pulsar 220F in India. These special editions are set apart with exclusive livery options and new dual tone colour schemes while they include no updates in engine specs.
    Bajaj Pulsar 150 Dagger Edge Edition
    Bajaj Pulsar 150 Dagger Edge Edition, priced at Rs.1.02 lakhs and at Rs.1.05 lakhs for the dual disc variant, gets two matte finished colour options of Pearl White and Safire Blue.
    The Pearl White colour scheme gets red accents on its mudguard rims and cowl and the Safire Blue is seen with white accents in similar places. Engine specifications remain unchanged and the BS6 compliant 149.5 cc, single cylinder engine offers 13.8 hp power at 8,000 rpm and 13.25 Nm torque at 6,500 rpm mated to a 5 speed gearbox.
    Bajaj Pulsar Dagger Edition Edition
    Bajaj Pulsar 180 Dagger Edge Edition
    The Pulsar 180 Dagger Edge edition is priced at Rs.1.10 lakhs. It gets three colour options of Pearl White, Volcanic Red and Sparkle Black Matte with accents and graphics. It continues to be powered by a 178.6 cc, single cylinder, air cooled engine that makes 16.8hp power at 8500 rpm and 14.52Nm torque at 6500 rpm mated to a 5 speed gearbox.
    Bajaj Pulsar 220F Dagger Edge Edition
    The new Pulsar 220F Dagger Edge edition is priced at Rs.1.28 lakhs. It gets four colour schemes of Pearl White, Sapphire Blue, Volcanic Red and Sparkle Black. Engine specs remain unchanged and the bike continues to be powered by a 220cc single cylinder motor offering 20.11 hp power at 8,500 rpm and 18.55 Nm torque at 7,000 rpm mated to a 5 speed gearbox.
    Common features to each of the bikes include a sloping fuel tank, stepped up seating, a pillion grab rail and upswept exhaust. The bikes also receive a semi digital instrument console, halogen headlamp, LED tail lamp and blacked out wheels. Tank capacity is of 15 liters while the Pulsar 150, 180 and 220F command a kerb weight of 150kgs, 151kgs and 160kgs respectively.
    The bikes are fitted with disc brake at the front and drum/disc brakes at the rear – depending on the model. Suspension is via telescopic forks in the front and gas charged absorbers at the rear. Bookings have opened, deliveries have started. More

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    Top 10 Motorcycles 600cc+ Segment March 2021 – Royal Enfield 650 Twins Lead

    New Royal Enfield 650cc
    As far as performance bikes are concerned, the top spot was taken by the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 and Continental GT
    On the top 10 list of performance bikes in 600cc+ segment, it was the RE 650 Twins that claimed the segment despite de-growth. Sales which had stood at 1,012 units in March 2020 dipped 63 percent to 378 units in March 2021. Despite de-growth, the RE 650 Twins were the only performance bikes to see sales above the 100 unit mark.
    Sales in this segment could get better in the months ahead as Royal Enfield has launched the new Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650 in India with a range of new colour schemes and Make-it-Your options while engine specifications remain the same.
    Kawasaki Bikes In Top 10
    Kawasaki claimed as many as 5 bikes in this list. It had the Z900 at No. 2 with 40 units sold in the past month. This was an 18 percent increase over 34 units sold in March 2020. There was also the Kawasaki Ninja 650 at No.3 with 37 units sold, noting exceptional growth of 825 percent over 4 units sold in March 20.
    Lower down the order were Kawasaki Vulcan S, Ninja 1000SX and the Versys 650. Of these, only the Vulcan S and Versys 650 posted positive growth while Ninja 1000SX sales dipped 73 percent YoY to 15 units, down from 55 units sold in March 20.
    Motorcycle Sales – 600cc+ Segment for March 2021
    For the month of April, 2021, the Japanese automaker has announced discount of Rs.30,000 on the Ninja 1000 SX so as to make it more affordable to buyers in India. This discount is valid on purchases made from April 1-30 2021 only. The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX currently retails at Rs.11.29 lakhs following a recent price hike.
    Triumph Tiger 900 and Rocket 3
    Triumph Tiger 900 and Rocket 3 at Nos. 4 and 5 respectively. Tiger 900 sales stood at 27 units in March 21 while Rocket 3 sales increased 500 percent YoY growth to 24 units, up from 4 units sold in March 20.
    Harley Davidson had its Fat Boy on this list at No.9 with 12 units sold in March 21, up 500 percent over just 2 units sold in March 20. The company also plans launch of its Pan America 1250 adventure bike in India over the next couple of months which will be a direct rival to the BMW R 1250 GS. Pan America 1250 will be presented in Standard and Special variants and have already made an appearance on the company’s Indian website.
    The Honda Africa Twin was at No.10 with 9 units sold in the past month. The 2021 Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sport was launched in India earlier this year and is priced at Rs. 15.96 lakhs. The flagship adventure-tourer being sold via the company’s exclusive BigWing TopLine showrooms. More