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    KTM RC 125, RC 200 New-Gen Makes Global Debut Ahead Of Launch

    New KTM RC Range – 125, 200 and 390KTM has carried out major changes across styling, ergonomics, chassis and ride dynamics
    While they have been spotted on road tests in India, new-gen KTM RC 125 and RC 200 have made their global debut. These track-ready bikes are expected to be available for sale in India and international markets later this year. KTM has also unveiled new RC 390, which gets a major overhaul similar to its smaller capacity siblings.
    2022 KTM RC 125, RC 200 style updates
    Both bikes get MotoGP inspired styling, something similar to that of KTM RC16. Bodywork has been completely redesigned, ensuring a sportier look and feel. Updates to the bodywork have improved overall aerodynamics, which translates into higher top speed.
    New KTM RC Range – 125, 200 and 390
    It also ensures better wind protection. While both bikes have similar headlamp design, RC 125 uses LED lights in comparison to halogen unit on RC 200. LED DRLs are the same on both bikes.
    In other changes, RC 125 utilizes an upswept side exhaust whereas RC 200 comes with an underbelly exhaust. Both bikes have two colour options each, primarily a combo of orange + black and orange + white. However, the white shade on RC 200 has a tinge of grey in it. Orange coloured wheels and frame and blacked-out engine are among the key similarities between new RC 125 and RC 200.
    KTM RC 125 Specs – 1
    2022 KTM RC 125, RC 200 functional updates
    To achieve improved power to weight ratio, KTM has carried out a range of upgrades. The new trellis frame with bolt-on sub-frame is 1.5 kg lighter. The new frame ensures better control and handling at high speeds.
    KTM RC 125 Specs – 2
    In a track environment, it results in faster lap times. Braking system has been upgraded with 320 mm disc at the front and 230 mm disc at rear. Even though larger, the new discs reduce weight by 960 grams.
    Similarly, the new design of the wheels has made them lighter. While RC 125 wheels save 3.4 kg, the bigger sibling reduces 1 kg of rotating unsprung mass. In practical terms, the lighter wheels ensure quicker turn-in in track environment and higher durability in street ride conditions.
    KTM RC 200 Specs – 1
    Suspension system comprises WP Apex open cartridge fork for RC 125 and WP Apex big piston fork for RC 200. Both bikes have a new WP Apex shock absorber at the rear. Factory settings of suspension system have been revised to ensure a sportier ride.
    In terms of ergonomics, the clip-on handlebars come with adjustability function. They can be raised up to 10mm for a more relaxed ride during every day commutes. Seating comfort has been improved with use of thicker, ergonomically designed foam. Digital instrument console has been revised on both bikes. While RC 125 gets an all-new TFT dashboard, the bigger sibling gets a new LCD dashboard.
    KTM RC 200 Specs – 2
    2022 KTM RC 125, RC 200 engine
    While engine is the same as earlier on both bikes, it comes with a range of improvements such as faster acceleration and higher torque delivery. Some of the key enhancements include larger airbox, ultra-hard carbon coated cam levers and improved engine cooling.
    New KTM RC 125 generates 20 hp of max power and 12 Nm of peak torque. RC 200 makes 25.5 hp / 19.5 Nm. Both engines are mated to 6-speed transmission. In other updates, fuel tank size has been increased to 13.7 litres. This means fewer stops at the fuel station. More

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    Bajaj Pulsar 250 NS Render Based On Latest Spy Shots

    New Bajaj Pulsar 250 NS – Render by Siddharth Pandey
    The upcoming Pulsar range of 250cc motorcycles will take on the likes of Suzuki Gixxer 250, Yamaha FZ25 and KTM 250 Series
    Bajaj is currently in the final stages of development of its upcoming Pulsar 250 which has already been pegged as the “biggest Pulsar ever made” by Rajiv Bajaj, MD at Bajaj Auto a few weeks back. Numerous spy shots of the quarter-litre motorcycle have been leaked on the internet in recent months.
    Apparently, multiple iterations of the flagship Pulsar will be on offer from the Chakan-based manufacturer in the form of a semi-faired version, a fully-faired version and a naked version. All three quarter-litre bikes are likely to be christened as 250F, RS250 and NS250. A digital rendering of the naked iteration has been created based on recent spy images.
    New Design
    The latest illustration is courtesy of Siddharth Pandey, a design student and an automotive enthusiast. The render shows the naked streetfighter with production-spec panels. The design in this render is starkly different from the rest of the NS bikes in the Pulsar lineup.
    Seen from the side angle, the new Pulsar 250 NS features a bikini fairing which is extended from the tank shrouds. Despite being a naked bike, the designer has been able to incorporate an air duct in the fairing in order to improve aerodynamic qualities.
    New Bajaj Pulsar 250 NS spy shot. Credit – Bunny Punia.
    It also gets a massive engine underbelly cowl. The tail section gets a higher raise than its smaller peers. Unlike other Pulsar NS models, this one is expected to receive a stubby exhaust muffler in a metallic canister instead of an underbelly exhaust. Other styling highlights include split-style seats, a rear tyre hugger and slightly rear-set footpegs. Overall, the front fascia looks mean and aggressive.
    Features
    The earlier spy shots of the test mule revealed a wider headlamp with a projector lens with inspiration from Yamaha FZ25 which is likely to get full LED illumination. Further, the exposed structure underneath reveals a slanted top frame. The new Pulsar 250 is also expected to offer a new instrument cluster, most probably a semi-digital unit which could come with Bluetooth connectivity.
    Expected Mechanical Specs
    From the looks of it, Pulsar 250 NS gets a suspension setup comprising conventional telescopic forks at front and a Nitrox-charged mono-shock linked to the swingarm at rear. Braking duties will be handled by disc brakes at both ends which should be assisted by dual-channel ABS as standard.
    Powering the new Pulsar 250 will be a new 249cc single-cylinder air/oil-cooled engine that could generate an output of 24 bhp and 20 Nm of peak torque. This unit will be mated to a six-speed gearbox most likely equipped with a slipper clutch. The new Pulsar range of 250cc motorcycles is expected to start at around Rs 1.50 lakh (ex-showroom) and is slated to launch in November this year. More

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    2021 Triumph Speed Twin India Launch Price Rs 11 Lakh

    2021 Triumph Speed TwinBookings for the new Triumph Speed Twin has commenced from June this year at a token amount of Rs 50,000
    Triumph has launched the new 2021 Speed Twin in India at a price of Rs 10.99 lakh (ex-showroom). The latest iteration of the modern classic motorcycle was unveiled at the start of this year along with the entire updated Bonneville range of retro-style classic twin-cylinder motorcycles.
    Being from the Bonneville family, the new Speed Twin gets the signature British retro-inspired styling commonly seen across Bonnies. The latest model from Triumph comes with both features and mechanical upgrades. In addition, there are a few cosmetic changes as well which are subtle in nature.
    Updated Cosmetics
    Bookings for the new Speed Twin began in June 2021 itself. Styling highlights include a round LED headlamp with anodised mounts, upswept twin exhaust mufflers which get brushed aluminium finish, a clear anodised Aluminium swingarm, new mudguard mounts at front and rear, and updated graphics on the 14.5-litre fuel tank. The side body panels also get a brushed Aluminium finish along with heel guards.
    Other signature Bonneville highlights include a flat-type seat with a ribbed pattern, tapered handlebars with bar-end mirrors, cast aluminium alloy wheels with a 12-spoke design and fork gaiters upfront. In India, Speed Twin will be offered in three colour options namely Red Hopper, Matte Storm Gray and Jet Black. The motorcycle adopts a dark theme with side panels, engine gearbox assembly and handlebar dipped in black paint giving it a sporty appeal.
    2021 Triumph Speed Twin
    Same Yet Better Powertrain
    Powering Speed Twin is the same 1,200cc parallel-twin liquid-cooled engine from the Bonneville family which now comes with a lighter crankshaft, as well as a new alternator that is said to reduce inertia by 17 percent. This has resulted in a bump of power by 3 horses while peak output now stands at 99 bhp at 7,250rpm and 112 Nm of torque at 4,250rpm. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox.
    2021 Triumph Speed Twin
    The British marque claims to have improved the low- and mid-range grunt on the new Speed Twin for better rideability. This has been achieved by adding a new cam profile, a new balancer shaft, high compression pistons and revised ports. Minor revisions have also been made to the exhaust system which provides a typical throaty note of a parallel-twin motor.
    Improved Dynamics
    Significant updates have also been made to the bike’s handling and dynamics. The steering geometry of Speed Twin has been altered with a half-degree sharper rake angle while the trail has been reduced by 2mm to 91.5mm. This has resulted in slightly sharper steering. The suspension setup has also been updated too which consists of fatter 43 mm Marzocchi forks with cartridge damping at front. At rear, it gets twin shock absorbers with adjustable preload.
    2021 Triumph Speed Twin Specs
    New Features on offer
    In terms of features, the bike gets a host of electronic rider-based aids which includes updated riding modes- Rain, Road and Sport. Each mode is preset with dedicated throttle control settings and new throttle maps. The new Speed Twin also gets a traction control system which can be switched off completely. However, it still misses out on an IMU-based electronics package, which the company claims, has been done to keep costs in check.
    2021 Triumph Speed Twin Specs
    Other features include a twin-pod instrument console with a digital menu system which could be accessed via the scroll button mounted on the handlebar. The console displays useful information including gear position, fuel level, range-to-empty, average and current fuel consumption, etc. Tyre Pressure Monitoring System could also be added to the equipment as an accessory. More

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    2022 KTM RC 390 Makes Global Debut – First Official Walkaround

    2022 KTM RC 390Launch of the 2022 KTM RC 390 in India is set to take place later this year – It is expected to be priced at a slight premium over the outgoing model
    KTM is currently in the process of overhauling almost its entire lineup and the Austrian brand has started with its RC range of superbikes. The first bike of the new generation models to hit Indian showrooms will be RC 390. The new-gen model of the flagship entry-level superbike from KTM in India has made its global debut.
    Bookings for the new-gen model have unofficially commenced at certain dealerships. The motorcycle is expected to be launched in the coming few weeks as production has reportedly begun at Bajaj Auto’s Chakan-based manufacturing facility. Along with the RC390, KTM has also revealed the new gen RC125 and the RC200 today.
    Upadted Design
    The new RC 390 has made some radical updates both on and underneath its skin. While previous spy shots left many KTM fans polarised regarding the design of RC 390, the bike looks much better in its final production spec. The fully-faired motorcycle gets a completely redesigned front end with a new single-piece LED headlight and a larger windshield.
    The headlight is flanked by sleek LED DRLs which double up as turn indicators when needed. Other styling updates include a more muscular fuel tank, redesigned front fairing, a revised tail section and new body graphics. The latest iteration of RC 390 looks more aerodynamic in nature hence the wider fairings. It is further enhanced with the presence of air vents on the side panels which ensure optimized airflow.
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    Feature & Structural Updates
    Riding ergonomics is expected to remain aggressive yet slightly more comfortable than the outgoing model with a low-set clip-on handlebar, rear-set footpegs and a forward-leaning seating posture. Revised front fairing, turn indicators, and position lamps are also part of the overhaul. It also receives a new TFT instrument console compatible with Bluetooth connectivity.
    2022 KTM RC 390 Specs – 1
    The new RC 390 has undergone significant changes underneath its skin. This includes an updated chassis that features a new bolt-on rear sub-frame. Suspension duties will be handled by USD forks at front and a mono-shock unit at the rear with a braced alloy swingarm. Suspension is adjustable. Braking hardware has been made stronger, therefore, it should provide more confidence to riders.
    Engine Spcs
    The Austrian bikemaker hasn’t tinkered with the bike’s heart. The new RC 390 continues to be powered by the same 373cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that dishes out 44 bhp. Torque output has been increased to 37 Nm, (thanks to larger airbox) resulting in a higher top speed (increased by 11 kmph). Engine heat dissipation has been improved, delivering better riding comfort.
    2022 KTM RC 390 Specs – 2
    The engine coupled with a 6-speed gearbox with a bi-directional quick-shifter and a slipper clutch. Upon its launch, KTM RC 390 will go head-on against other sports tourers such as TVS Apache RR 310, Kawasaki Ninja 400 and the upcoming Benelli 302R. More

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    Honda Sales, Exports July 2021 – Activa, CB Shine, Dio, Grazia, CB350

    Image for reference.HMSI witnessed a 10.05 percent increase in domestic sales in July 2021 while exports grew 263.24 percent
    Honda domestic sales stood at 3,40,420 units in July 2021, a growth of 10.05 percent from 3,09,332 units sold in the same month a year ago. Exports on the other hand surged 263.24 percent to 44,500 units.
    Honda Activa tops Domestic Sales
    Topping the domestic sales charts was Honda Activa. Along with CB Shine, these were the only two vehicles in the company lineup to cross the 1 lakh unit sales mark last month. Honda Activa scooter sales increased 37.10 percent YoY from 1,18,859 units sold in July 2020 to 1,62,956 units sold in the past month. The Activa line-up currently includes two models of Activa 6G and Activa 125 and currently commands a 47.87 percent share in the company lineup.
    At No. 2 was CB Shine with 30.53 percent sales growth to 1,16,128 units in July 2021 up from 88,969 units sold in July 2020. MoM sales also increased substantially by 61.58 percent over 71,869 units sold in June 2021.
    Sales of Dio scooter dipped in July 2021 by 44.66 percent to 20,604 units, down from 37,233 units sold in July 2020. Domestic sales on a MoM basis however increased 8.54 percent over 18,983 units sold in June 2021.
    Honda Sales, Exports July 2021 vs July 2020 (YoY)
    Even as sales of Unicorn increased 7.53 percent to 1,735 units sold in July 2021, that of Grazia and Dream dipped 58.10 percent and 72.25 percent respectively to 4,175 units and 5,564 units in July 2021. Each of these three models in the company lineup posted positive MoM growth.
    Of the new CBR 650, launched in April this year, the company sold 27 units in July 2021. Honda CB650R naked bike and updated CBR650R are priced at Rs 8.67 lakh and Rs 8.88 lakh respectively. HMSI also saw de-growth in case of Livo, X-Blade and the Africa Twin in a YoY basis while MoM sales of these increased substantially.
    Honda Dio tops Export Charts
    Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India had the Navi as its best seller in export markets. 9,230 units of Navi were exported. Exports of the Dio scooter stood at 7,618 units, up 371.41 percent over 1,616 units exported in July 2020. MoM exports of the Dio also increased substantially over 5,640 units shipped in June 2021.
    Honda Sales, Exports July 2021 vs June 2021 (MoM)
    Honda CB Shine and X-Blade noted the highest YoY growth which stood at 1,325.44 percent and 4,854.86 percent respectively. Exports of these two models were at 6,443 units and 7,135 units in July 2021. In June 2021, exports had stood at 4,466 units and 2,825 units respectively, relating to a 44.27 percent and 152.57 percent growth.
    Honda Unicorn 160 exports also increased 56.25 percent to 1,200 units in July 2021 up from 768 units shipped in July 2020 while MoM exports dipped 10.71 percent over 1,344 units shipped in June 2021. Honda also shipped 1,000 units of Aviator and 1,401 units of Grazia in the past month along with 2,604 units of Hornet 160R and 3,236 units of Dream. Each of these models also showed off positive MoM growth in export markets while the newly launched CB350 has seen a 164.47 percent MoM growth to 841 units in July 2021 up from 318 units exported in June 2021. More

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    New Royal Enfield Classic 350 Green Colour – Exhaust Note Thump Sound

    Royal Enfield Classic 350 Halcyon Green Colour. Image – Prashant NayyarNew Royal Enfield Classic 350 will be made available in five trims with eleven different colour options
    The internet has been flashing news about the upcoming new generation Classic 350 from Royal Enfield for the past few weeks now. Like every model from Royal Enfield, anticipation for this motorcycle is huge more so because it has been the brand’s highest-selling model in the last decade.
    Many previews of the new Classic 350 have already been going viral online which have revealed plenty about the modern retro-style bike. Latest images of New Royal Enfield Classic 350 Green Colour (Halcyon Green) have been posted by Prashant Nayyar. This is a new colour option and looks quite attractive.
    Exhaust Note Compared
    Two key attributes about Royal Enfield motorcycles that are talked about most often are their looks and thump sound. While its styling has been revealed in recent spy shots and videos, we also have a sample of its exhaust note.
    A video on YouTube uploaded by Royal. Sourabh Vlog reveals the exhaust note of upcoming Classic 350. When compared with the outgoing model, surprisingly both sound a lot similar to each other. This mainly has to do with the tighter BS6 emission norms and a much larger catalytic converter that comes with these strict emission standards. The new cat con box results in a muffled exhaust note which evidently is present on the new-gen Classic 350 as well.
    [embedded content]
    However, this was very different in the pre-BS6 era where the exhaust notes from Royal Enfield bikes were much louder and aggressive. At idle, both the older generation Classic 350 and new-gen Classic 350 sound identical. On pulling the throttle a little gently, the new Classic 350 offers a slightly raspier note than the outgoing model. Nevertheless, both exhaust notes are subdued in nature, something which won’t appeal to old-school Royal Enfield fans.
    Updated Styling & Features
    The good thing though the bikemaker hasn’t tinkered with the motorcycle’s design too much as it still gets the vibe of a signature Royal Enfield retro-style bike. Some visual highlights include a round halogen headlamp, circular turn indicators, a teardrop-shaped fuel tank with rubber grips, tiger-eyed position lights and wire-spoke wheels.
    In terms of features, the new Classic 350 will be offered with a revised semi-digital instrument cluster which comes with an analogue speedometer and a digital display for odometer and fuel gauge. It also comes with the provision of a Tipper Navigation display which could be fitted as an accessory from any dealership.
    Royal Enfield Classic 350 Halcyon Green Colour
    Engine Specs
    The new Classic 350 is powered by a new 349cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine which made its debut with Meteor 350. This unit is coupled with a new 5-speed gearbox and is rated to deliver an output of 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm of peak torque. The new engine also comes with a counterbalance shaft which is said to improve refinement levels and reduce vibration significantly.
    Prices of the 2021 Classic 350 are expected to start in the same range as the current Classic 350 at the time of launch, which is scheduled to take place tomorrow on 1st Sep 2021. More

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    2021 TVS Apache 310 Race And Dynamic Kit Launched – Price Rs 2.77 L

    TVS Apache 310 Race Kit and Dynamic Kit launchedTVS Motor Company has launched industry-first Built To Order option – Which has now been implemented on Apache 310
    TVS Motor has been quick at updating their flagship Apache 310. Just last year, the motorcycle received new features. These included significant upgrades in the form of a new TFT instrument console, multiple riding modes and a ride-by-wire throttle along with SmartXonnect connected tech. It also added new Michelin Road 5 tyres and fresh colour options. Today it has received its 2021 update in the form of Race and Dynamic Kit.
    TVS Apache 310 Race Kit and Dynamic Kit
    TVS Motor announced the launch of two new kits for their Apache 310. Called Race Kit and Dynamic Kit, these are available individually or together. Base price of the Apache 310 has been increased from today and it now stands at Rs 2.6 lakhs, ex-sh. If you chose to add either of these kits, you will be charged extra.
    For the Dynamic Kit, you will have to pay Rs 12,000 more – taking the bike price to Rs 2.72 lakh ex-sh. For that price, you will get fully adjustable KYB front and rear suspension. You will also get brass coated drive chain.
    The Apache 310 Race Kit will cost you Rs 5,000, taking the bike price to Rs 2.65 lakh ex-sh. For that, you will get race designed footpegs and racing ergonomics. If you opt to install both kits, you will have to pay Rs 17k over the base price. This will take bike price to Rs 2.77 lakh ex-sh. Only 150 kits each are up for grabs for now.
    TVS Apache 310 Race Kit and Dynamic Kit launched
    TVS Built To Order
    TVS Motor has launched a new configurator, which will enable their customers to configure their bike digitally. They will be allowed the kit options to be installed, as well as the colour option (Red, Black or TVC Racing Livery). Buyers can also chose the Number of their liking, which will be applied as a decal on the Apache 310.
    All this can be done online. Once you have saved you configuration, you can make the payment and reserve your Apache 310. You don’t have to pay the base price of the motorcycle, but only the price of the kits you chose. Remaining amount you will have to pay at the time of delivery.
    Apache 310 Engine specs
    There is no change in engine specs of the Apache RR 310. Apache RR 310 is powered by a 312.2cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine featuring 4 valves and a SOHC setup. It has been rated to produce a maximum output of 33.5 bhp and 27.3 Nm of peak power and torque This unit is coupled with a six-speed gearbox with a slipper and assist clutch.
    TVS Apache 310 Race Kit and Dynamic Kit launched
    TVS offers multiple ride modes on RR 310 including Urban, Rain, Sport and Track. In the latter two modes, the peak output could be extracted out of its engine whereas in Rain and Urban, an output of 25.4 bhp and 25 Nm of peak torque can be extracted.
    Suspension duties are handled by inverted telescopic forks at front and a gas-assisted shock absorber at rear. Braking hardware comprises a 300mm disc up front and a 240mm disc at the rear with safety net provided by a dual-channel ABS. More

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    KTM India Celebrates 10th Anniversary – Ownership Benefits Announced

    Image for reference. Credit – Adarsh SureshSpecial benefits from KTM are being offered for a limited period of time on all KTM and Husqvarna models booked from 18 August 2021 onwards
    KTM brand is widely credited for giving impetus to the premium segment of motorcycles in India. Offerings from the Austrian brand are especially known for their exceptional performance and cater to a large section of enthusiastic riders across the country. The company is now celebrating its 10th anniversary in the Indian market.
    Over the course of a decade, the bikemaker has gone on to become a reputed brand for sporty motorcycles. First launched in 2012, KTM has grown from a portfolio of just two models in only one segment to eleven models under three different segments including Naked, Supersport and Adventure in India.
    The company currently offers motorcycles for different purposes with different engine displacements ranging from 125cc to 390cc. To mark its 10th anniversary in India, KTM has introduced a range of benefits for its consumers.
    These special offers are valid on all new KTM and Husqvarna motorcycles sold in the country. The Husqvarna brand of motorcycles, a Swedish subsidiary of KTM, made its debut in India early last year.
    Image – KTM Kollam
    Special Benefits on offer
    The Austrian bikemaker is offering a free three-year warranty extension in addition to the standard two-year warranty. This effectively translates to a 5-year free warranty package. Other benefits include a complimentary one-year roadside assistance and a 50 percent discount on Pro-Experiences. These offers will be valid for a limited period of time on all KTM and Husqvarna models booked on or after 18 August 2021.
    KTM introduced Pro-Experiences last year which offers a range of expert curated ride experiences across trails, tarmac and track for its owners The bikemaker hasn’t yet specified an exact end date for the offers to expire, however, it will be communicated subsequently. Apart from the benefits listed above, customers can also avail retail finance schemes covering up to 95 percent of the loan amount.
    Updated KTM Range
    According to Sumeet Narang, President (Probiking) at Bajaj Auto Ltd., KTM currently has 500 showrooms and workshops across India. The brand is currently looking to overhaul almost its entire lineup with new generation models which will be launched starting in a few weeks. These include new-gen models of RC 200, Duke 200, Duke 250, RC 390, Duke 390 and Adventure 390.
    In all probability, KTM will launch the new-gen model of its flagship RC 390 first. Booking for the upcoming iteration of the supersport motorcycle has commenced at certain dealerships unofficially at an unspecified token amount ranging between Rs 5,000 and Rs 10,000. The new Rc 390 is expected to undergo radical upgrades both on top and underneath its skin. More