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      New KTM RC 200, RC 390 Unofficial Bookings Start – Launch By Aug 2021

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      2021 KTM RC 390 render by Kobeyo CustomsBoth supersport faired motorcycles are expected to make their debut together around July or August later this year
      There has been great excitement built around the arrival of new generation KTM models. Recently, an image of what appeared to be a full production version of RC 390 went trending on the internet. Earlier pre-production prototypes of RC 200 were also caught on camera conducting test trials.
      Select dealerships of the Austrian bikemaker in India, have unofficially started accepting bookings for the upcoming new-gen models of RC 200 and RC 390. Dealers are charging a booking amount in between Rs 1,000 and Rs 5,000, while some dealers quoting amounts as high as Rs 10,000.
      The bookings have been made against the current-gen RC range of models and can be transferred once the new generation models arrive. The booking could also be cancelled and the token amount will be refunded in case the bikes are not up to the customer’s expectations. The launch date of both entry-level supersport bikes are expected to take place around July or August this year.
      RC 390- Updated Design
      The new RC 390 will be visibly a lot bigger than its 200cc sibling. The design gets a radical update over the outgoing model which frankly has left enthusiasts polarised. Some of the notable updates include a completely redesigned front end with a new single-piece LED headlight, redesigned fairing, new body graphics, a larger fuel tank and a redesigned tail section. Revisions are also noticed in the frame, handlebar, frame and alloy wheels.
      2021 KTM RC 200
      The front fairing appears wider and more aerodynamic in design and it also supports the new boomerang-styled LED turn indicators. Another key update is inclusion of air vents on the side panels which will ensure optimized airflow and in turn enhance its aerodynamic qualities.
      The motorcycle will be underpinned by a new rear subframe that will offer more comfortable rides for taller riders. The most impressive addition to RC 390 is the new TF display for the instrument console. In addition, the sportbike also gets improved brakes and a quick-shifter.
      RC 200- Updated Design
      On the other hand, the new RC 200 will also receive a completely overhauled styling which is in line with the new RC 390. However, unlike its bigger sibling, RC 200 will most likely receive an underbelly exhaust instead of the side-slung unit seen in the new-gen RC 390. It will continue to employ the current model’s LCD instrument console and will feature new body graphics and decals.
      Specs on both models
      Moving to specs, both motorcycles are likely to be powered by the same BS6 units in the current models. RC 200 will be powered by the same 199.5cc liquid-cooled mill that pushes out 25 hp and 19.2 Nm of torque. RC 390 will be powered by a 373cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that dishes out 44 bhp and 35 Nm of peak torque. While RC 200 is expected to be priced between Rs 2.10 to Rs 2.15 lakh mark and the bigger superbike would be priced in between Rs 2.65 lakh to Rs. 2.80 lakh (both prices ex-showroom). More

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      2021 Yamaha Sniper 155, 155R Scooter Unveiled – Based On R15 V3

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      Image – XIII Tips N VlogYamaha offers the 155cc VVA motor in India in YZF R15 V3.0 and MT-15 only
      Yamaha truly takes pride in its 155cc VVA motor as the engine now performs duties in a host of models in the company’s international lineup. Not only in motorcycles but this powertrain has also been extended to scooter offerings from Yamaha in recent times.
      While the motorcycles in this range include the likes of YZF R15, MT-15 and XSR 155, the scooters powered by this motor involve Aerox 155, NMax 155 and NVX 155. This indicates the Japanese company’s faith in this reliable and peppy engine. The lineup gets more extensive with the launch of Sniper 155 and 155R in the Philippines which run on the same mill.
      Styling
      Starting with its styling, the new Sniper 155 has been designed in a manner that offers a sporty feel with its compact dimensions. The design is said to be inspired by the flagship YZF-R1 which makes it look sharp and sporty. The two-piece LED headlight setup is an interesting feature. It gets a low-beam unit mounted on the handlebar for better visibility at night whereas the twin-LED high beam units are placed on the front apron.
      The scooter incorporates a forward-heavy faired silhouette with a short and upward angled tail section. Overall, the scooter looks stylish, agile and light and Yamaha has managed to bring the best of both worlds by offering versatile performance on race track and street respectively.
      Yamaha Sniper 155
      Although it has been categorised as a scooter, its riding dynamics are similar to that of a bike with footpegs instead of a floorboard. In addition, the body has been redesigned to offer a more ergonomic fit to the inner thigh.
      Features on offer
      Getting into features, Sniper comes equipped with all-LED lighting, a negative LCD instrument cluster and a new slip-resistant seat to offer even better grip as standard. It is also equipped with a larger 5.4-liter fuel tank. The higher-spec 155R is offered with additional gizmos such as a smart key system and a 12V power socket. Additionally, the top-spec trim gets a special material and stitching on the seat.
      Mechanical Specs & Improvements
      As mentioned earlier, it is powered by a 155cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine that returns an output of 17.7 bhp at 9,500rpm and 14.4 Nm of peak torque at 8,000rpm. Power is sent to the rear wheel via a six-speed manual gearbox and chain final drive. Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) technology ensures a linear power delivery throughout the rev range. The motor is fed air by a new 4.6-liter air cleaner box.
      Image – XIII Tips N Vlog
      Thanks to a revised exhaust pipe and muffler, the scooter’s power output is optimised across the rev range in addition to the reduction in noise. Suspension duties of the scooter are handled by telescopic forks at front and a swingarm suspension at rear. Braking is taken care of by telescopic forks at the front and a swingarm suspension at the rear as standard while 155R gets 2-piston front brake calipers along with a 245mm disc for better stopping power.
      2021 Sniper 155 is available in three colour options namely Yellow Hornet, Race Blu and Black Raven whereas 155R is exclusively offered in Matte Titan. Both trims are offered at a price of PHP 1,14,900 (equivalent to INR 1.74 lakh) and PHP 1,20,900 (equivalent to INR 1.84 lakh). Like the other scooters in Yamaha’s 155cc lineup, chances of Sniper 155 making it to India also look bleak. More

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      2022 BMW Electric Scooter Spied Testing In Production Form

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

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

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

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

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

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      Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 Limited Edition – First Look Walkaround

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

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

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

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

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