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    2021 Suzuki Hayabusa Unboxing At Dealership – First Look Walkaround

    2021 Suzuki Hayabusa UnboxingPrice of the new generation Hayabusa is Rs.2.8 lakhs dearer than its outgoing counterpart in India
    No sooner did Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt. Ltd., open bookings for the new generation Hayabusa, than all the 101 units of the first lot have been sold out. The orders were via the company portal due to COVID-19 restrictions and opened on 26th April with booking amount was fixed at Rs.1 lakh. Deliveries have commenced from this month. The first 101 buyers will receive a pillion cowl as an accessory free of cost.
    The new gen Hayabusa is priced at Rs.16.40 lakhs, Rs.2.80 lakh more expensive as compared to its earlier gen model which carried a price tag of Rs.13.70 lakhs. The updated model boasts of better overall balance, superior performance and an engine which now complies with BS6 emission standards.
    Colours and Key Features
    Features also include a new LED headlamp, turn indicators and position lamps while it also gets a new set of mirrors. The 2021 Hayabusa also sports a new TFT centrally positioned display, 3 power modes, cruise control and 3 levels of engine braking controls.
    Safety is via cornering ABS, launch control and hill hold assist along with 10 levels of anti-wheelie control and 10 levels of traction control. Take a look at the detailed unboxing and first look video below, credit to Car & Bike Anatomy.
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    The new gen Hayabusa is offered in dual colour schemes of Glass Sparkle Black with Candy Burnt Gold, Metallic Mat Sword Silver with Candy Daring Red and Pearl Brilliant White with Metallic Mat Stellar Blue. It also gets a bold new design, a new logo, redesigned fuel tank and longer exhausts which are now chrome plated. It rides on 7 spoke alloy wheels fitted with Bridgestone Battlax S22 tyres.
    BS 6 Compliant Engine
    The 2021 Hayabusa gets its power via a BS6/Euro 5 compliant 1340 cc, in-line 4 cylinder, liquid cooled engine that offers 190 hp power at 9,700 rpm and 150 Nm torque at 7,000 rpm mated to a 6 speed transmission. The engine upgrade to comply with the new emissions standards sees a reduction in both power and torque by 10 hp and 5 Nm as compared to its earlier engine.
    Mileage is claimed at 18.5 km/l while top speed is at 290 km/h. Kerb weight is at 264 kgs, 2 kgs less than its earlier model. The 2021 Hayabusa gets an updated braking system and now comes in with Brembo’s Stylema calipers in the front and Nissin calipers at the rear. Suspension is via fully adjustable 43mm KYB forks, capable of 120mm travel and KYB monoshock.
    Future bookings are on hold and are expected to commence from August 2021. Like its earlier counterpart, the 2021 Suzuki Hayabusa will find no direct competition in India especially since the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14R has now been discontinued. More

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    Top 10 Motorcycles 200cc To 500cc April 21 – Classic, Bullet, Pulsar, CB350, KTM

    Image – Area of InterestRoyal Enfield motorcycles commanded the most attention in the 200cc-500cc segment of motorcycles
    The lockdowns following the second wave of COVID-19 have led to a 22 percent drop in motorcycle sales in April 2021. Sales of bikes in the 200-500cc segments dipped to 58,870 units compared to the previous month of March when sales stood at 75,649 units. Every motorcycle in this segment noted a fall in MoM sales except for the RE Bullet 350, of which sales increased 2.22 percent while the highest percentage fall was in the case of the Suzuki Gixxer 250 of which sales dipped 62.85 percent.
    RE Classic 350, Bullet 350 and Meteor 350
    In top 3 spots in the list of best-selling bikes in the 200-500 cc segment were the RE Classic 350, Bullet 350 and Meteor 350. Classic 350 was the leader in this segment with sales at 23,298 units in April 21, down 26.49 percent as against 31,694 units sold in March 21. The Classic 350 was the best-selling model in the company portfolio for FY21. Despite suffering a de-growth of 9.29 percent, total sales stood at 3,61,140 in FY21 as against 3,98,144 units sold in FY20.
    The Bullet 350cc, the cheapest offering in the company lineup, noted a marginal increase in MoM sales. In March 21, sales had stood at 9,693 units, which increased to 9,908 units in the past month. Taking sales in the past financial year into account, Bullet 350 noted de-growth of 25.04 percent to 98,008 units as compared to sales of 1,30,752 units in FY20.
    Over the past 5 months, sales of the Meteor 350 have been steadily growing. Sales to date include 7,031 units sold in November, 8,569 units in December, 5,073 units in January and 8,624 units in February. March 21 sales were the highest at 10,596 units only to dip 25.97 percent to 7,844 units in April 21.
    Motorcycle Sales 200cc to 500cc segment – April 2021
    Even as the Bajaj Pulsar 220 came in at No.4 with sales of 3,914 units in April 21, down from 5,172 units in March 21, Royal Enfield continued its dominance in this segment with the Electra 350 cruiser coming in at No.5. Electra sales stood at 3,631 units in April 21 as against 4,914 units sold in March 21, a MoM sales de-growth of 26.11 percent.
    At No. 7 was also the RE Himalayan adventure bike with a 2.86 percent de-growth to 2,815 units sold in April 21. Royal Enfield’s Himalayan received a significant update for 2021 along with a price increment of Rs 10,000 while it currently commands a waiting period of 8-9 weeks.
    Honda H’ness also posted strong sales in April 21 at 2,969 units though this was a dip from 4,302 units sold in March 21. Earlier this month the bike received its second price hike since launch with the latest upward revision by Rs 3,405 for both variants Honda H’Ness CB350 Deluxe and Pro.
    KTM 250 and 390
    Lower down the order were the two KTM bikes 250 and 390 each of which noted MoM de-growth. KTM 250 sales dipped 12.81 percent to 1,089 units while KTM 350 sales fell 16.81 percent to 851 units. There is a new feature-packed KTM 390 Duke in the making and it has been spotted on test in a similar design and with mechanical updates as seen on the 250 Duke.
    Bajaj Avenger 220, Dominar 400 and Dominar 250 followed each other in quick succession, each posting MoM de-growth, while the TVS Apache 310 and Husqvarna 250 and FZ25 found positions at the bottom of the table along with the Gixxer 250 that posted the most MoM de-growth of 62.85 percent to only 133 units sold in April 21. Also found in the list is Honda CB300R, which is yet to be launched. With dispatches started, launch of Honda CB300R is expected to launch soon in India. More

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

    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

    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

    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

    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

    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

    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.
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    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