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      KTM 250 ADV vs Himalayan vs G310GS vs 390 ADV – Comparison

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      KTM 250 Adventure
      With the launch of KTM 250 Adventure, a comparison with its nearest rivals- Himalayan, G 310 GS and 390 Adventure is in order

      After a long and ardent wait, KTM finally launched its entry-level adventure motorcycle in India. The 250 Adventure had been in development for more than a year and had been spotted testing on Indian roads on multiple occasions. Priced at Rs 2.48 lakh (ex-showroom) it is offered as an affordable alternative to its competitors.
      However, it is still not the most affordable in this range. While it comes out as an attractive option it does have its fair share of hits and misses. Let us find out how it stands up against its close rivals Royal Enfield Himalayan, BMW G 310 GS and its own elder sibling KTM 390 Adventure.

      Engine & Transmission
      The 250 Adventure is by far the smallest in this range in terms of displacement although it is not the least in terms of output. Ironically, it is the largest displacement motor from Himalayan which produces the least output. This is because while all bikes are powered by single-cylinder units, the Himalayan gets a single overhead camshaft instead of double cams like the rest.
      390 Adventure’s 373.2cc unit produces the highest output of 43.5 PS and 37 N of torque. All, barring Himalayan, come with a 6-speed transmission. The Royal Enfield is offered with a 5-speed unit. Also, Himalayan is the only bike to miss out on a slipper clutch with an assist. I guess we know why Himalayan is the most affordable in this space.

      Dimensions
      The 250 Adventure is almost identical to its older sibling except its height. While the former stands at 1263mm, the latter stands at 1400mm. In other respects, all bikes measure almost similar. The Himalayan is the heaviest in this space at 199kg. It also gets the highest ground clearance of 220mm.
      Hardware
      While none of these motorcycles can’t be defined as hardcore off-roaders meant for trail bashing, the Himalayan is definitely more suited to take on the rough paths. The KTM siblings and BMW G 310 GS are more tourers which can do occasional off-roading. Himalayan gets conventional telescopic front forks while the rest are equipped with upside-down forks. Rear suspension units of all bikes are equipped with a preload adjustable mono-shock.

      However, Himalayan leads the pack when it comes to suspension travel with front travel of 200mm and rear travel of 180mm. This is what makes it a competent off-roader. Although all bikes come with switchable ABS at the rear. Disc brakes with dual-channel ABS are offered as standard on all four bikes. Another point of difference while all get tubeless tyres, Himalayan gets tubed tyres.
      Features and Price
      KTM 390 Adventure continues to lead this space in terms of features quite appropriately since it is the most expensive too. It has a wide equipment which consists of a 5-inch TFT colour infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, Off-Road Mode, MTC (lean angle sensitive), bi-directional quick shifter, traction control and cornering ABS.

      The latest iteration of G 310 GS, like 390 Adventure, also comes with multiple riding modes with ride-by-wire technology. All get digital instrument consoles except the Himalayan which gets a part analogue and part digital console. All bikes get a halogen headlight except the 390 Adventure which gets an LED headlamp.
      Royal Enfield Himalayan is by far the most affordable of the lot. Quite expectedly, it comes with the least number of gizmos while KTM 390 Adventure justifies its high premium with features on offer. In fact, it also gets the most powerful engine of the lot. More

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      Top 10 Motorcycle Sales Oct 2020 – Splendor, Pulsar To Platina, Classic 350

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      Hero Splendor Black Accent Edition
      October 2020 two wheeler wholesales for top 10 bikes posts cumulative growth

      Top 10 motorcycles’ cumulative sales for October 2020 is reported at 11,54,518 units. This is a great boost from the 9,24,908 units sold a year earlier. Volume gain of 2,29,610 units has helped report growth of 24.83 percent.
      There are multiple reasons that aided sales last month including pent-up demand, low base sales, and recently concluded festive season, and specially curated offers for the season. In addition, current pandemic related slowdown and safety requirements have prompted one to consider personal vehicle ownership, and to cash in, banks loans for such purchases have been revised to meet current loan applicants’ needs.
      Hero Splendor continues to dominate the market as always. Wholesales were reported at 3,15,798 units, up 19.56 percent from 2,64,137 units giving it 27.35 percent share month the top 10 sellers.
      It’s Hero MotoCorp again on 2nd spot on the podium. HF Deluxe sales is reported at 2,33,061 units at 25.47 percent gain, up from 1,85,751. The motorcycle bags 20.19 percent share in the top sellers list. Bajaj Pulsar sales grew considerably at 44.72 percent, up at 1,38,218 units from 95,509 units helping it grab 11.97 percent share.
      Top 10 Motorcycle Sales Oct 2020
      Top two-wheeler manufacturers
      Honda CB Shine remains in fourth spot having sold 1,18,547 units. Sales grew 35.11 percent, up from 87,743 units to secure 10.27 percent share in the big league. With Hero MotoCorp wearing the big and fancy hat of highest seller, it’s no surprise that so many of the manufacturer’s products feature on the list.
      Next on is Hero Glamour. Sales is reported at 78,439 units, up 91.80 percent from 40,896 units. Volume gain of 37,543 units has helped secure 6.79 percent share of top sales. Hero Passion sales growth is reported by 64.47 percent for a similar market share. Sales grew 64.47 percent to 75,540 units from 45,928 units.
      No
      Top 10 Motorcycles
      Oct-20
      Oct-19
      1
      Hero Splendor (+20%)
      3,15,798
      2,64,137
      2
      Hero HF Deluxe (+25%)
      2,33,061
      1,85,751
      3
      Bajaj Pulsar (+45%)
      1,38,218
      95,509
      4
      Honda CB Shine (+35%)
      1,18,547
      87,743
      5
      Hero Glamour (+92%)
      78,439
      40,896
      6
      Hero Passion (+64%)
      75,540
      45,928
      7
      Bajaj Platina (-13%)
      60,967
      70,466
      8
      Bajaj CT (-17%)
      51,052
      61,483
      9
      Royal Enfield Classic 350 (+8%)
      41,953
      38,936
      10
      TVS Apache (+20%)
      40,943
      34,059
      –
      Total (+25%)
      11,54,518
      9,24,908
      Bajaj Platina sales is one of two losers on the list. Sales decline is reported at 13.48 percent as volumes fell to 60,967 units from 70,466 units. Bajaj CT sales too fell at 16.97 percent, down to 51,052 units from 61,483 units.
      Royal Enfield Classic 350 gets on 9th spot at 7.75 precent sales gain. Sales grew to 41,953 units from 38,936 units to capture 3.63 percent share in the top selling list. TVS Apache series is last on the list having reported wholesales at 40,943 units, up from 34,059 units at 20.21 percent growth.
      Two wheeler sales recovery
      A glimpse at the two-wheeler market, especially current motorcycle sales are in no way indicative of the stilled and gloomy start to FY21. So, it’s no surprise that must manufacturers would be chuffed to bits at the way business has picked it once retail activity started and logistics and supply systems were sorted.
      Demand isn’t unprecedented but seeing it altogether has brought a glimmer of hope to an otherwise lacklustre year devoid of activity through a long stretch. In living memory, no-one recalls a totally industrywide shutdown. Because it’s never happened before. These have been trying times, and October 2020 sales brings cheer. More

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      Yamaha MT15 Colour Customisation Options Launched In India

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      Image for reference
      The MT15 gets up to 14 new paint schemes out of which 3 will be readily available in showrooms

      Yamaha Motor India has announced the launch of a unique colour customization option for its naked roadster MT15. Dubbed as “Customize your Warrior”, this campaign is introduced by the company on the backdrop of the positive feedback received from customers on the recent launch of Ice Fluo-Vermillion colour on MT15.
      Under this scheme, a consumer can choose from 11 different colour combinations when buying an MT15. This program was launched from November 20 onwards and will be applicable for all new consumers.
      Price Of New MT15 CYW
      Based on the orders received from buyers, Yamaha will build a personalised MT15 for an individual consumer and the deliveries of these motorcycles will start from January 2021. However, the yellow color wheel model’s deliveries will start from Mar 2021. Customers can choose their own set of colours at Rs 1.44 lakh (ex-showroom) which is Rs 4,000 more expensive than the standard MT15.
      With this campaign, the naked streetfighter will be available in as many as 14 different paint schemes (four wheel colours) out of which 3 options will be readily available in showrooms. While for the rest one can place an order at an authorised Yamaha dealership.

      The Japanese bikemaker says that with this new scheme it plans to attract a younger group of riders which further bolsters its presence in the market. It provides a host of options to the buyers to meet their specific requirements.
      MT15 Details
      Yamaha MT-15 is powered by a BS6 compliant 155cc, single-cylinder liquid-cooled, SOHC motor which returns an output of 18.23 bhp and 13.9 Nm of peak torque. This unit is linked to a 6-speed gearbox with a slip and assist clutch. The fuel-injected engine features a Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) system on a Delta box frame. It also gets single-channel ABS.
      In terms of features, it gets an LED headlamp and tail lamps, a fully-digital LCD instrument console and more. It borrows plenty of components and goodies from its sibling YZF R15 V3.0. It will compete against the likes of KTM 200 Duke, Bajaj Pulsar NS200, Hornet 2.0 and Apache RTR 200 4V. Yamaha MT-15’s design has been mostly inspired by its elder siblings MT-09 and MT-07.
      Other than the additional colour options there has been no update made on the naked streetfighter. The Japanese auto brand has announced that it will come up with such options in future as well which are in line with the company’s direction “The Call of The Blue”. More

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      Ola Electric Scooter India Launch Likely By January 2021

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      Etergo electric scooter image for reference
      Ola is looking to build India’s largest two-wheeler manufacturing facility and is in talks with various state governments

      Ride-hailing major Ola is venturing into the electric scooter retailing with the first vehicle likely to launch soon. As per a report by PTI, Ola Electric is expected to launch its first electric scooter by January next year. This comes after the recent development of Ola looking to start manufacturing electric scooters in India.
      Ola-Etervo BV Tie Up
      These scooters will initially be manufactured at a facility in Netherlands and will be sold in Europe as well as India. For reference, in May this year, Ola announced the acquisition of Amsterdam-based Etergo BV for an undisclosed amount which bolstered its design and engineering capabilities.
      As of now, there has been no official word from Ola regarding the current development. Developed as an all-electric state-of-the-art App scooter, Etergo BV uses swappable high energy density batteries to deliver a range of up to 240 Km. The company has had developmental experiences with leading automotive brands such as Tesla, General Motors, BMW, Jaguar and Ferrari in the past.
      The new Ola Electric Scooter is expected to be priced competitively against its fossil fuelled counterparts and the brand is looking to tap into majority of 20 million units of the Indian two-wheeler market. Some sources convey that Ola intends to sell at least a million e-scooters in India in its first year.
      Etergo electric scooter
      Ola’s Future EV Plans
      Ola is currently in talks with various state governments to set up an electric scooter manufacturing facility in India. This facility is slated to be the largest two-wheeler manufacturing facility in the country with an annual production capacity of 2 million units.
      This move to manufacture and retail electric scooters might pitch the SoftBank-backed brand as a worthy business opponent to Ather Energy, Hero Electric, Okinawa, Bajaj Auto and others which offer e-scooters in India. Plus it seems the right time for companies to venture into a business that has been extensively promoted by Central and several state governments by offering lucrative incentives.
      Future holds bright prospects electric vehicles (EV) in India and Ola might want to utilize this opportunity to expand its avenues. The shared mobility industry took a huge hit this year after the outbreak of novel coronavirus which shrunk the business. In the near future as well, people will prefer owning a vehicle rather than sharing mobility. Hence, it is imperative for Ola to venture into some other business that might return some great numbers.
      As per our previous report, production for electric scooters in India is targeted to commence in the next 18 months by Ola. The manufacturing site is expected to adopt Industry 4.0 philosophy and will use solar power and will have test tracks. More

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      Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Launched In Thailand – Few Days After India

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      Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Launched in Thailand. Image – Vimal Sumbly
      After its debut in the domestic market earlier this month, Royal Enfield Meteor 350 has been launched in Thailand

      Just like India, customers in Thailand will have access to all three variants – Fireball, Stellar and Supernova. Prices are in the range of 150,000 – 159,500 Thai Baht, which is approximately 3.67 lakh to 3.90 lakh in Indian Rupee. In comparison, Meteor prices in India are Rs 1.75 lakh for Fireball, Rs 1.81 lakh for Stellar and Rs 1.90 lakh for top-spec Supernova variant.
      Same as India-spec Meteor 350
      Meteor 350 launched in Thailand is the same as India-spec Meteor. There are no major changes or updates. Some of the key features include round headlamp, chrome accents, broad rear fenders and tear drop shaped fuel tank, turn indicators and rear tail light. The motorcycle has a comfortable riding stance and comes with high set handle bars, forward set foot pegs and low seat height.
      Royal Enfield has equipped Meteor with some unique features, one of which is Tripper Navigation. It comprises a dedicated display unit that offers turn-by-turn navigation when connected to the rider’s mobile phone. The motorcycle also comes equipped with USB charging port.
      Meteor 350 gets its power from a new J series 349 cc, air-oil cooled, SOHC engine that is capable of producing max power of 20.2 hp and peak torque of 27 Nm. The transmission is a 5-speed unit.
      Unlike India, where the launch of Meteor 350 was online, in Thailand launch event was on ground.
      Royal Enfield exports outlook
      It is to note that Thailand is an important South East Asian market for Royal Enfield. This is why the company has planned a dedicated assembly plant in the country, which will soon get operational.
      Most of their products such as Classic 350, Bullet 350, Himalayan, Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650 are also available in Thailand. Apart from South East Asia, Royal Enfield is also focusing on expanding its presence in Latin American markets. Just a few weeks back, RE announced their first assembly plant outside India, in Argentina.
      As things stand now, exports by Royal Enfield are just a fraction of the company’s domestic sales. This presents both an opportunity as well as a challenge to expand presence in global markets. In October 2020, Royal Enfield exported a total of 4,033 units. Most in demand products included 650 Twins, Classic 350, Himalayan and Classic 500. In comparison, domestic sales were 62,858 units with bestsellers being Classic 350, Bullet 350 and Electra 350.
      In comparison to Royal Enfield, other domestic two-wheeler manufacturers in India have much higher export numbers. If we compare in terms of quantity, companies like Bajaj, TVS, Yamaha, and Honda have higher export figures.
      Royal Enfield is aware of the possibilities that exist in international markets and is actively working to increase share of exports in its overall revenue pie. In the initial phase, the company has planned to achieve 20% of total revenue from exports. More

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      Bajaj Dominar Records Sales Of 3,568 Units In Oct 2020 – New High

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      Bajaj Dominar 250
      Dominar sales crosses 3,500 mark for the first time in a calendar month – Both, 250 and 400 have contributed in achieving this new high

      In an encouraging development for Bajaj Auto, sales of its Dominar range have witnessed an upswing in recent months. As may be recalled, Dominar 400 was launched in 2016 whereas Dominar 250 had made its debut earlier this year in March.
      Talking about Dominar 400, the company had hoped that its flagship motorcycle will emerge as a bestseller. However, sales turned out to be below expectations. Nonetheless, the company persisted with the product and introduced a number of changes to make it a more attractive option for customers. Bajaj’s patience and efforts seem to be paying off now, as Dominar 400 sales are on the rise.
      Highest sales ever in October 2020
      After the lockdown was lifted, Dominar 400 sales have been consistently increasing since June. A total of 1,818 units of Dominar 400 were sold in October, which is the highest monthly sales this year. From January to October, total sales are 5,681 units. This is also the highest sales since June 2019, when a total of 2,044 units were sold.
      Talking about Dominar 250, the motorcycle has fared relatively better as compared to its bigger sibling. It has registered decent sales since its launch, excluding the obvious lockdown period from April to May. In October, sales were highest at 1,750 units. Cumulative sales since its launch are 7,230 units, which is higher than Dominar 400 for the same period.
      2020
      Dominar 250
      Dominar 400
      Total
      Jan
      0
      130
      130
      Feb
      2
      297
      299
      Mar
      861
      280
      1,141
      Apr
      0
      0
      0
      May
      50
      33
      83
      Jun
      1,018
      717
      1,735
      Jul
      1,222
      746
      1,968
      Aug
      1,317
      775
      2,092
      Sep
      1,010
      885
      1,895
      Oct
      1,750
      1,818
      3,568
      Total
      7,230
      5,681
      12,911
      Is the tide turning in favour of Dominar 400?
      Although sales have improved, it is too early to comment about Dominar 400’s future prospects. Post lockdown, most two-wheeler models have registered strong sales growth. Purchase decisions delayed due to the pandemic and associated uncertainties are now being fulfilled, which is one of the key reasons for sales boost post lockdown. Things have improved on the supply side as well, which is another factor for the rise in sales numbers.
      It is not certain if this rally can be sustained in the coming months. If we analyse past sales data, it is evident that sales are usually the highest during the festive season.
      From December onwards, sales have a tendency to move south. We will need to watch for a few months more to understand if the recent sales boost is a passing phase or Dominar 400 is finally emerging as a preferred option among customers.
      Bajaj Dominar 400 was launched at a competitive price point of Rs 1.36 lakh, but with multiple price revisions, it now retails at Rs 1.98 lakh, ex-sh. Even at this price, it remains to be one of the most VFM (value for money) motorcycles in its class. Dominar 250 primary rivals include Suzuki Gixxer 250 and Yamaha FZ-25. It has also undergone price revisions and now retails at Rs 1.66 lakh, ex-sh. More

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      Harley Davidson India To Reveal Updated Dealer Network By Dec 2020

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      Harley Davidson Motorcycles India
      Existing Harley Davidson India dealer network will remain active till 31st Dec

      Harley-Davidson India customers have received communication from the company to assure them of what 2021 and beyond will look like. For starters, the company is working closely with Hero Motocorp to ensure a continued and hassle-free customer experience starting next year.
      For now, all aspects of owning a Harley-Davidson are continuing just as they have until now. This includes accessories, gear, HOG activities, warranty, and service. All such, inclusions that are currently active will continue seamlessly from January 2021 in a renewed setup.
      Current Harley Davidson dealers will operate until December 31, 2020. The updated dealership and service network that will be operational in the new year will be commented before the end of 2020.
      Harley Davidson customer outreach
      The company remains engaged with Hero MotoCorp to ensure the Harley-Davidson experience isn’t affected. All concerns related to transitioning are a foremost thought at the company, and as updates are available, the same will be communicated with customers. Harley Davidson will continue to bring new motorcycles to the country. Such details will be communicated closer to launch date.
      Hero will take care of Harley Motorcycle Sales and Service in India
      Parts and accessories requirements will be available to order at dealers, and can be checked at the nearest dealer. The Financial Services Team will continue with customer Planned Maintenance Programme, and Extended Warranty.
      The association between both manufacturers and for long been one of a guessing game. Prior to the confirmation a few weeks earlier, Harley Davidson’s expected association meant all major names in the country were up for discussion. Despite rumours no formal announcements were forthcoming.
      It’s only in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic that Harley’s Davidson’s Indian business arm has been laid bare and geared the brunt of rapid and extreme sales contraction. Limitations that led to the situation had long been burying its claws deep into Harley Davidson’s ability to have a sustainable business plan in India.
      Harley Davidson India business model
      When exiting its sales and manufacturing operations in India, the company said this is part of a company-wide 5-year restructuring plan to rewire, focus on high-priority markets, and streamline its product lineup. It’s Bawal assembly plant has been responsible for assembling the few 1,000 units the manufacturer sold each other. Being a ‘complete knock-down’ (CBU) assembly plant means parts and components were shipped from US, and assembled here for India.
      The allure and premise of Harley Davidson in India has always been an expensive one, and its business model didn’t help in achieving a more price efficient system. Even though the company did go on to make smaller engine bikes for the lock market, that too found few takers and wasn’t transformative in terms of converting buyers as the company had hoped. More

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      Kawasaki W175 Sub 200cc Motorcycle Spied In India For First Time

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      Kawasaki W175 Spied in Pune
      The Kawasaki W175 is likely to adopt an electronic fuel injection system to comply with BS6 emission standards

      It seems the Japanese brands are suddenly interested in the Indian retro-classic roadster segment where homegrown Royal Enfield has a near-monopoly. Honda just introduced the H’ness CB350 which was specifically developed for India. Now, Kawasaki is gearing up to introduce its W175 compact displacement roadster in the country.
      Kawasaki W175
      A test mule of the Kawasaki W175 has been spotted for the first time in India, bolstering the previous reports that the company is considering it for our market. When launched, the W175 will be the most affordable model in the brand’s Indian lineup.
      With its utterly simply design characterized by a circular headlamp, slender fuel tank and a long saddle, the Kawasaki W175 oozes classic appeal. Interestingly, there is not a lot of chrome, and that is a good thing. A simple mud-guard mounted taillight, spoke wheels, fork gaiters and single-pod instrument cluster further add to the motorcycle’s old-school appeal.
      Specifications
      Just like its modest design, there is nothing particularly special about the Kawasaki W175’s technical specifications. Power comes from a single-cylinder, air-cooled 177 cc engine which breathes via a carburetor in markets like Indonesia and Philippines. However, the BS6 emission norms in India is likely force the motorcycle to adopt electronic fuel injection.
      Kawasaki W175 Spied in Pune
      In its carebureted avatar, the motor produces a sedate 13.05 hp and 13.2 Nm of torque. The motorcycle employs a 5-speed gearbox. With a kerb weight of 126 kg, the Kawasaki W175 is a light roadster which targets people who prefer a relaxed and unhurried riding style.
      The motorcycle is equipped with telescopic front forks, twin rear shock absorbers, a single front disc and rear drum brake. The India-spec version will be equipped with a single-channel ABS.
      India launch
      The Kawasaki W175 is most likely to be assembled locally but we doubt if the company can match the localization levels of its intended rivals. With an estimated price tag of around INR 1.40 lakhs (ex-showroom), the classic Kawasaki will have a lot of modern, better equipped and more powerful rivals to fend off.
      It will lock horns with the likes of Honda Hornet 2.0, TVS Apache RTR 200, Hero Xtreme 160R, and so on. The motorcycle would be hoping to take advantage of the residual brand recall Kawasaki has in the Indian small displacement market. It would be a positioned as a brand shaper rather than a full fledged volume generator. Kawasaki’s relatively limited dealership network would also make it challenging to realize the W175’s full potential.
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