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    Harley Davidson XR338 Street Tracker Concept Based On Benelli 300cc

    Harley Davidson XR338 Street Tracker. Images – BikeExif
    The XR338 is a concept Harley Davidson 338R; which could influence the its street tracker version

    With global sales getting affected due to pandemic and closure of business operations in emerging markets such as India, the American manufacturer has not had a pleasant 2020. However, the brand has a very rich legacy over many years and it is confident about its resurgence in future.
    A couple of months ago the 338R from Harley was the talk of the town as several spied images and patent sketches had leaked on the internet giving us an idea of what the company’s future could look like. Termed as the ‘baby Harley’, this bike looked nothing like a typical Harley Davidson.

    Atypical because neither does the bike belong to a cruiser segment nor does it feature a big displacement powertrain. The motorcycle adopts a flat-track racer body style. Even though flat trackers aren’t quite the big thing these days, an Italian industrial design house has seen potential in this segment and therefore created its own concept prototype. Just like teased patent images of 338R, the XR338 too is based on Benelli 302S.
    Brief about Engines Engineering
    Founded by Alberto Strazzari in 1979, Engines Engineering (EE) specializes in motorcycle design and development and have worked previously with OEMs like Yamaha, Ducati, Honda, Benelli, Suzuki and many more.

    It has also provided its services for designing purposes for local Italian manufacturers. However, this is the first time it has attempted something like this on an existing model and turned it into something completely different.
    Design of XR338
    Dubbed as XR338, this naked street tracker is aimed primarily at the younger consumers of the US market. Design-wise, EE has admitted that the XR338 draws major inspirations from Harley-Davidson XR750. The iconic flat tracker is celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year. EE claims that the prototype is fully functional and 70 percent ready for production.

    Although most of Benelli’s components are intact, it gets its own modified frame with the stock 302S trellis structure making way for a more flowing affair. EE has also added its own body, fuel system, LED lighting, instrumentation and a new pair of 18-inch custom wheels. Suspension has also been tweaked slightly in accordance with the new wheels and bike’s revised mass. It also receives a new exhaust muffler and ECU unit.
    EE has designed the XR338 keeping in mind the latest emission norms including Euro 5 standards, US DOT, and even CARB requirements thus removing most hurdles before production. EE claims to have built this prototype in 120 days and it would take another six months to complete the last 30 percent remaining for it to be production ready.

    Powertrain Utilised
    Benelli 302S is powered by a 300 cc twin-cylinder which pushes out 37.5 bhp and 25.6 Nm of peak torque. Even though XR338 will share its underpinnings with Qianjiang QJ350 and Benelli 302S, it is said to carry its own American heart and soul. Speculations are rife that the 338R will be powered by a 338cc parallel-twin engine which will produce 43 bhp. It is expected to be paired with a 6-speed transmission unit.
    Whether the XR338 draws some inspiration for folks at Harley Davidson is yet to be seen but its design is definitely a head-turner. Also, the future of 338R in India hangs in balance since Harley Davidson relinquishing its duties in the country and handing it over to Hero MotoCorp.
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    Two Wheeler Retail Sales Oct 2020 – Hero, Honda, TVS, Bajaj, RE, Suzuki, Yamaha, Vespa

    Hero Splendor
    October 2020 two-wheeler retail sales decline reported by FADA research

    FADA has reported two-wheeler retail sales for October 2020. Total two wheeler retail sales fell 26.82 percent down to 10,41,682 units from 14,23,394 units at 3,81,712 units volume loss. Whole sales report can be found here.
    Hero MotoCorp, Honda and TVS
    Hero Motocorp sales is reported at 3,33,563 units at 31.61 percent decline from 4,87,701 units. Volume loss stands at 1,54,138 units. The manufacturer enjoys 32.02 percent market share.
    Honda two wheelers sales decline is reported at 26.38 percent, down at 2,92,267 units from 3,96,996 units. Market share is reported at 28.06%. Volume loss stands at 1,04,729 units.
    TVS sales fell 18.29 percent, down at 1,56,063 units from 1,90,991 units. Market share stands at 14.98 percent. Volume loss is reported at 34,928 units. Below is the detailed retail sales table for Oct 2020 Two wheeler sales.
    Two Wheeler Retail Sales Oct 2020. Source – FADA
    Bajaj, Royal Enfield, Suzuki, and Yamaha
    Bajaj sales is down 32.30 percent at 1,18,486 units, down from 1,75,022 units. Market share is reported at 11.37 percent. Unit sales declined by 56,536 units. Royal Enfield sales fell 21.35 percent, down at 46,593 units from 59,242 units. Market share is 4.47 percent. Unit sales fell 12,649 units.
    Suzuki two Wheeler sales fell 20.12% at 43,361 units and volume loss of 10,919 units from 54,280 units. by Market share is close to RE at 4.16 percent. Yamaha sales is close at 41,961 units, down 11.05 percent from 47,174 units. Market share stands at 4.03 percent. Unit sales contracted 5213 units.
    No
    TW Retail Sales
    Oct-20
    Oct-19
    1
    Hero
    3,33,563
    4,87,701
    2
    Honda
    2,92,267
    3,96,996
    3
    TVS
    1,56,063
    1,90,991
    4
    Bajaj
    1,18,486
    1,75,022
    5
    Royal Enfield
    46,593
    59,242
    6
    Suzuki
    43,361
    54,280
    7
    Yamaha
    41,961
    47,174
    8
    Vespa Aprilia
    3,643
    6,090
    9
    Jawa
    2,516
    2,806
    10
    Harley Davidson
    120
    178
    11
    Kawasaki
    112
    281
    12
    BMW
    104
    218
    13
    Triumph
    72
    77
    14
    Ducati
    9
    18
    15
    Others / Electric
    2,613
    2,222

    Total
    10,41,682
    14,23,394
    Vespa and Aprilia sales contracted to 3,648 units at a decline of 40.18 percent from 6,090 units. Market share stands at .35 percent. Jawa sales fell 10.33% down to 2,516 units from 2,806 units. Harley Davidson sales is reported at 120 units, down 32.58 percent from 178 units. Kawasaki sales fell 60.14% down at 112 units from 281 units.
    BMW Motorrad sales fell by 52.29 percent, down tp 104 units from 218 units. Prime sales is reported at 72 units, down from 77 units. Ducati sales halved at 9 units from 18 units. Total electric two wheeler sales is reported at 2613 units at a gain of 17.6 percent, up from 2222 units. Market share is reported at .25 share. Electric two wheelers is the only sub-segment that has reported gain last month.
    FADA retail sales
    With retail sales numbers being acquired basis RTO registrations and company sales reports being reported basis wholesale units, both numbers indicated differ. As per whole sales report for October 2020, most mass market manufacturers are in the green, barring Royal Enfield. For instance, Hero MotoCorp reported its highest ever sales last month having surpassed the 8 lakh unit mark. FADA retail sales however show that number to be at less than half.
    FADA retail numbers do not include data from AP, MP, LD & TS as these States/UT’s are not yet on Vahan 4. Vehicle Registration Data was collated on 08.11.20 and from Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, and Government of India, and is gathered from 1,257 of 1,464 RTOs. More

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    Meteor 350 Development Process Explained By Royal Enfield

    Royal Enfield Meteor 350 tested across India, Spain and the UK.
    The video describes what changes and improvements have been made on Meteor 350 over the older Thunderbird 350

    Biking enthusiasts, especially Royal Enfield fans had been waiting for Meteor 350 with bated breath and its launch earlier last week sent the automotive industry into a frenzy. The cruiser replaces the outgoing Thunderbird model from Royal Enfield’s portfolio and has generally received a positive response from across the industry.
    While everyone is singing praises for the new bike, it is important for readers to know what went into development of the mid-segment cruiser. A team of leading technicians and engineers explain in a video released by Royal Enfield on its official Youtube channel, the development process and special attributes of Meteor 350.
    Updates on Meteor 350
    Meteor 350 has rightly been described as a progression and evolution from the outgoing Thunderbird as the Royal Enfield team had the exact thing in mind while developing the Meteor 350. Essentially Meteor 350 is the next generation of Thunderbird 350 with a brand new engine, chassis and subtle updates to design. This fact can also be established when one rides the Meteor and Thunderbird back to back.
    The development team consists of technicians, engineers and designers from various countries, with the new bike jointly developed and tested in Spain, the United Kingdom and India. Take a look at the video below.
    [embedded content]
    The video features inputs from following people;– Mark Wells, Head, Product Strategy & Development– Simon Warburton, Head, Product Strategy & Development– Chittaranjan Gogoi, Industrial Design– Anuj Dua, Product Strategy– James Young, Engine Development– Takashi Yamamoto, Head, Electronic Management System– Martin Neczaj, Chassis Design– S Sivakumar, Head, Industrial Design– Matthew Cardenas, Product Manager, Tripper Navigation
    Improvements made
    Even though most of its components are brand new and designed from scratch, it still retains most of Royal Enfield’s signature elements such as its characteristic exhaust thump and its road presence. The new engine though slightly low on torque than the previous generation 350cc engine has a wider torque band of 1000 rpm which makes it provides the essential low-end and mid-range thrust thus providing a comfortable ride in city as well as highway conditions.
    What the extra 1000 rpm of peak torque also does is reduce vibrations on the bike considerably which makes it easier to cruise at slightly higher speeds. The rake angle incorporated is optimised both for city commute as well as long-distance cruising.
    For the first time, Royal Enfield is also providing mass customisation for its customers through the brand’s ‘Make It Yours’ program from where the owners can choose from thousands of components and accessories to make their Meteor look exclusive.
    Other Details
    Royal Meteor 350 is the first bike from the retro classic motorcycle brand to be based on an all-new J platform which is set to underpin future models as well. The company also incorporated a brand new 349cc single-cylinder, air-cooled, long-stroke engine which makes 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm of peak torque. It is available in three variants namely- Fireball, Stellar and Supernova and is offered at a starting price of Rs 1.75 lakh (ex-showroom). More

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    TVS Retron Name Registered – Creon Based Electric Scooter To Rival Ather?

    TVS Creon Concept
    TVS is on aggressive mode as the brand has filed multiple trademarks recently

    TVS Motor Company has recently filed a few trademarks which suggest that the Hosur-based automaker might be bringing in new products in the near future. Reports of the company registering trademarks of Zepplin R and Fiero have already been shared by us.
    Now, details of another trademark filed by the brand for the name TVS Retron have been leaked. It is not exactly known as to which product will carry this name in future. As of now, there could be many possibilities which we could think of.
    An Electric Scooter
    Narrowing down, we have come to three probabilities where the ‘Retron’ name might be utilized. The first scenario is of a retro electric scooter. This e-scooter might be positioned above iQube and would be pitted against the likes of Ather 450X and Bajaj Chetak Electric.
    The company had earlier previewed TVS Creon electric scooter as a concept at the AutoExpo 2018. The model was powered by a pack of three Lithium-ion batteries which gave out 12 kW of instant power.
    TVS Retron Name Registered On 2nd Nov 2020.
    This TVS electric scooter claimed a single-charge range of 80 km and an impressive performance of 0-60 kmph in just 5.1 seconds. The battery could be recharged via a fast charger which could juice up the battery to 80 percent in just 60 minutes.
    A Retro Motorcycle Based on Apache
    Second possibility is that TVS could utilise Apache’s platform to build an entry-level retro motorcycle. There is no such bike in the 150-160cc space and TVS could very well make use of this void and gain a first-mover advantage.
    If this plan does materialize, TVS might position it just slightly below Apache RTR 160 and it will appeal to a wider section of classic motorcycle lovers. The new bike is expected to feature classic elements such as a round headlight and taillight, a retro fuel tank and a flat seat.
    A bigger version of Radeon
    Third possibility lies in a bigger version of the classically styled Radeon since the two names sound similar. Utilizing the 110cc motor for this bike seems unlikely since the brand already has two motorcycles using 110cc units and the upcoming Victor BS6 too will employ the same motor. A 125cc mill makes more sense and the Retron name could very well justify it.
    Hero MotoCorp did a same thing with Splendor when they launched a classic version of it called Splendor Pro Classic. It sported a cafe-racer style seat with a pillion cowl, club man-style handlebars, chrome embellished fenders and mirrors; and spoked wheels.
    It will be interesting to see what TVS has in its mind but currently, there are not many details to speculate further. Only time and TVS can tell what it is planning ahead. However, one thing is for sure that with all the new trademarks we can expect interesting stuff from the bikemaker in the coming future. More

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    2021 Honda NX 125cc Scooter Debuts – Gets LED Lights, Digital Speedo

    Honda NX 125
    The Honda NX125 gets dual LED headlamps, front disc and alloy wheels

    The Honda NX125 automatic scooter has been launched in China to cater to the entry level two wheeler market. The urban runabout now looks much sharper and sportier than most of its contemporaries. More international markets are set to receive the updated scooter but we don’t expect it to make it to our shores.
    2021 Honda NX125
    The new NX125 wears a properly urban bodywork with multi-layered front apron with sharp edges, angular peeled-up LED headlamps, generously proportioned seat and a heavily contoured engine cover. The dual-tone color theme goes very well with the overall styling. The NX125’s updated styling reminds us of the Honda Grazia in more ways than one but the Indian-spec scooter feels watered down in comparison.

    The 2021 Honda NX125 comes with decent under seat storage space in addition to a pair of cubby holes on the front apron. As far as equipment list is concerned, the facelifted scooter offers a fully digital instrument console, USB charger, LED headlamps and so on.
    Powertrain and specifications
    Powering the China-spec 2021 Honda NX125 is an air-cooled fuel-injected engine which is not very different from the one employed by the India-spec Grazia. The 125 cc motor is rated at 8.7 hp and 9.7 Nm of torque. Of course, the transmission is a CVT.

    The NX125 is equipped with telescopic front forks, rear monoshock and sits on 12-inch front and 10-inch rear wheels. Braking system is composed of a front disc and a rear drum unit, both governed by cost-effective combi-braking system.
    Despite its imposing looks, the automatic scooter weights a reasonably light 106 kg. The fuel tank has a capacity of 6 liters. The scooter is priced at 9,580 yuan (around INR 1.07 lakh).

    Automatic scooter segment in India
    Not long ago, the 125 cc automatic scooter segment in India was considered to be premium but the BS6 emission regulations have transformed it into a mass market segment. This space in India is currently populated by Honda’s Grazia and Activa 125, TVS Ntorq, Aprilia Storm 125, Suzuki Access 125, the Vespa range and the Yamaha scooter range which includes RayZR and Fascino.
    It is not just the 125 cc scooters that are witnessing increased demand. The country is also starting to embrace fully electric scooters as evident from strong starts of several brands. From established OEMs like Bajaj and TVS to startups like Ather, Ampere and BGauss, things are moving pretty fast in this space.
    With increased importance for private mode of transport in the current times, we expect automatic scooters to widen their market share in our country. More

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    GoZero Skellig Electric Bikes Launched – Starting Price Rs 20k

    GoZero Electric Bike
    GoZero Skellig series is an eco-friendly and cost effective personal commute range

    Today, GoZero Mobility launched its new range of performance electric bikes, designed in Great Britain, and manufactured in India. Extensive hours of research have gone into developing Skellig Pro to combine off-roading and city commuting, and built on a consumer centric approach.
    The three new models unveiled are Skellig, Skellig Lite and Skellig Pro series aimed to promote fitness and green commute. Current circumstances have meant more and more people have had to time to step back and look at the larger picture of life. With more people benefitting from the efficiency of work from home, and other rethinking daily commute options, cycling is once again on people’s minds.
    Prices
    With e-bikes being a logical solution for quick, safe and environment-friendly intra-city commute that helps maintain required physical distance, it’s an investment that’s good for the body, and wallet. GoZero Skellig packs in EnerDrive 210 Wh lithium battery pack (800 cycles), and 250 W GoZero Drive Motor. Ride modes include Throttle Mode, 5-level Peddle-Assist Mode, Walk Mode, and Cruise Mode. Features include an alloy stem handle, 26×1.95 tyres, and a premium counter-body suspension fork.
    GoZero Skellig lithium battery pack
    GoZero Skellig Lite uses EnerDrive 210 Wh lithium battery pack (800 cycles) and a 250 W drive motor. GoZero Drive Control 2.0 is charged with 3 modes of pedal-assist. Alongside regular Skellig bits, it features specialized V-brakes and an independent rigid suspension fork. Both Skellig and Skellig Lite attain max speed of 25 kmph, and ride range of 25 km on a single charge. EnerDrive Battery packs can be charged in 2.5 hours.
    GoZero Skellig Pro
    GoZero Mobility Pro version is a hybrid e-bike meant for off-roading and city commute, both. It features an advanced EnerDrive 400 Wh lithium battery pack (2000 cycles), and is supported by a composite mild steel frame, 7-speed gear system with a Advanced front suspension fork, alloy stem handle, 26×2.35 inches tyres and GoZero front and rear disc brakes.
    Drive Control Version 4.0 LCD display and a flashlight with a guide-me-home enabled lighting system. is included. Max speed is capped at 25 kmph, and it goes through a 70 km range on a single charge at about 3 hours to recharge from 0-95 percent.
    GoZero Skellig Lite
    GoZero Skellig sales
    Pre-orders for Skellig Series open on November 8, and Amazon orders from November 12. Delivery starts on Nov 25th. Fit series (Active performance wear) range orders commence on November 10, and deliveries start from November 20th. Products will be retailed through several offline and online stores.
    GoZero’s previous models, One, and Mile were received well. Skellig Lite, Skellig, Skellig Pro are available at a price of Rs 19,999, 24,999 and 34,999, respectively. Skellig and Skellig Pro are available both online and offline, and Skellig Lite is available only online (GoZero website and other e-commerce platforms).
    GoZero Skellig
    GoZero CEO, Ankit Kumar said, “This year we are doing things differently, we are launching the Pro version of Skellig, launching our Make. Fit series of active performance wear and releasing our new toll-free lines for our customers.” More

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    Honda Hornet 185cc Adv Motorcycle Render – Hero Xpulse 200 Rival

    Digital Render
    Currently, Hero Xpulse 200 is the most affordable adventure tourer bike in India and Honda will be looking to disrupt this segment of entry-level ADVs in India

    Adventure motorcycles are the next big thing in the Indian automotive market. Gauging by the segment’s immense popularity over the past couple of years, every two-wheeler brand now wants to have an adventure bike in its product profile.
    Sometime earlier we had reported that Honda is developing an entry-level ADV bike based on the CRF250L Rally motorcycle. It will reportedly be rebranded to Africa Twin moniker and will be retailed as an entry-level model in the ADV range. However, that bike is most likely for international markets and not for India.
    But there is good news for Honda fans in India. Honda Motorcycles and Scooters India (HMSI) is planning to develop an all-new adventure motorcycle based on the recently launched Hornet 2.0. It is speculated that this new adventure tourer could utilise the naked roadster’s new platform.
    In a recent interaction with CarAndBike, Atsushi Ogata, President, CEO and MD, HMSI, confirmed this development. During this interaction, Ogata stated to exploring other options on both newly launched platforms of Hornet 2.0 and H’Ness CB350.
    250cc Honda Africa Twin Render
    One of the possibilities is the entry-level ADV based on Hornet 2.0’s architecture. During this discussion, Ogata did mention the CRF in a passing comment. From this discussion, it is clear that Honda is willing to expand its range of ADVs.
    Expected Details
    We can expect the design of this new bike to be in line with the Hornet 2.0. It will most likely be the same thing what KTM has done with their Duke and ADV range. That said the engine is expected to be the same as the one offered in Hornet 2.0. Its 184.4cc single-cylinder, fuel-injected motor is capable of pushing out 17 bhp of maximum power and 16.1 Nm of peak torque.
    It will be fair enough for Honda since it has invested a lot in developing an all-new platform for Hornet 2.0 and would be feasible for the company to utilise it in developing other new products. As of now, there are very little details as to how or when we can see this bike in our market but judging by the conversation, it seems like Honda is still in planning stages and it would take years to finally hit the roads.
    But one can never be sure with Honda. Out of the blue there will be a launch announcement, and before you know it, owners are posting video reviews of the new Honda Hornet 185cc Adv Motorcycle. We have already seen how efficient they are in hiding their upcoming projects before the actual launch – CB350 is one such example.
    Expected Availability
    This Honda ADV will be made in India from locally sourced components to keep the cost in check and will be retailed through its regular chain of dealerships. If plans do materialise then this new ADV from Honda will be the first real competitor to Hero Xpulse 200.
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