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    2021 Ducati Multistrada V4 Debuts With Radar Tech – India Launch Next Year

    2021 Ducati Multistrada V4
    The 2021 Ducati Multistrada V4 boasts a service interval of 60,000 km

    The eagerly anticipated new generation Ducati Multistrada V4 flagship adventure tourer has finally been unveiled online via first of a five episode video series. Since its inception in 2003, Ducati has managed to sell over 110,000 units of its cross country workhorse and the latest iteration is leaner, meaner, lighter and packed with an array of first-in-industry technologies.
    2021 Ducati Multistrada V4
    The new Multistrada retains its instantly recognizable styling language characterized by an imposing, front heavy stance, and yet, every single design element is much more modern and sleeker than before. The new beak and panels of the semi-fairing are optimized for aerodynamics and better cooling performance. The side panels are so designed to channel airflow towards rider’s legs, a feature which would be widely appreciated on long journeys.
    The smart LED headlamps with Panigale-inspired LED DRLs render the Multistrada V4 a strong character. The bodywork-free tailpiece further accentuates the frontal bulk, a conscious decision by the designers.

    Powertrain
    The 2021 Ducati Multistrada V4’s largest party trick is its all-new V4 liquid-cooled 1,158 cc engine which is more compact than the outgoing L-Twin motor despite featuring two additional cylinders. Thanks to various weight saving measures, the V4 units is 1.2 kg lighter.

    Power and torque figures stand at 170 hp at 10,500 rpm and 125 Nm at 8,750 rpm. A six-speed transmission with up and down quick shifter is connected to the motor by means of a slip and assist clutch. The rear bank of cylinders is deactivated at idle to improve thermal comfort.

    The Multistrada’s GranTurismo V4 motor has an impressive service interval of 60,000 km, longest by a huge margin. The all-new spring valve return system seems to have played a major role in extending the service interval.

    Equipment
    The 2021 Ducati Multistrada V4’s aluminium frame is equipped with a two-sided swing arm, and the top-end V4 S sits on a semi-active Marzocchi electronic suspension (170 mm travel at the front and 180 mm at the rear) with Ducati Skyhook System. The spoke wheels come shod with 120/70-R19 front and 170/60-R17 Pirelli Scorpion Trail II rubbers.
    Digital Instrument Panel
    The Italian adventure tourer’s wide array of electronic features include an IMU-supported cornering ABS, traction control, wheelie control and cornering lights. The motorcycle’s 6.5-inch TFT color instrument panel is as comprehensive as a modern passenger car infotainment system. It incorporates smartphone mirroring, navigation and gives access to various vehicle settings.
    World’s First Production Motorcycle With Radar Tech
    The most significant equipment, however, is the front and rear radars, a first in a production motorcycle. The front unit, mounted on the beak, facilitates Adaptive Cruise Control while the rear one supports blind spot detection and rear collision warning.

    Available in V4 and V4 S variants, the 2021 Ducati Multistrada is expected to hit the showrooms in early 2021. The tech-laden cross country tool will make its Indian launch most likely next year. More

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    2021 Yamaha MT-07 Unveiled With Revised Styling And Cleaner Engine

    2021 Yamaha MT-07
    The Euro 5 compliant parallel-twin motor produces marginally lower power and torque but the real-world performance shouldn’t suffer

    When the 2021 Yamaha MT-09 with a completely new headlamp design broke cover a few day ago, we though it is only a matter of time before rest of Yamaha’s street fighter range receive a similar update. Just as expected, the MT-07 receives the styling update for the 2021 model year.
    2021 Yamaha MT-07
    The 2021 Yamaha MT-07 features a radical looking LED headlamp flanked by DRLs. The whole setup makes for a Y-shaped lighting signature. In its latest avatar, the brisk selling mid-weight naked motorcycle also features restyled vents and body panels. The overall appearance is much bolder than before although some may find it polarizing.

    The new MT-07 continues to carry forward its 680 cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled engine with 270-degree crank shaft. Yamaha engineers have made the motor compliant with the latest Euro-5 emission norms. As a result, the performance figures took a nominal hint. The new power and torque figures stand at 73.4 hp and 67 Nm of torque (1.4 hp and 1 Nm less than before).
    Elements like exhaust, air-intake and injectors have been revised in addition to new ECU configuration in an attempt to meet the stricter emission standards. The company claims that the changes have made the motor smoother and more linear than before.

    Equipment
    The 2021 Yamaha MT-07 also receives larger 298 mm twin disc brakes up front (older ones measured 282 mm in dia). Dual-channel ABS system continues to be standard fitment. The motorcycle also receives new Michelin Pilot Road 5 tyres just like its new rival, the Triumph Trident.
    The new Yamaha MT-07 is equipped with LED turn indicators, a new LCD instrument console with inverted colors with remote control and new body decals. The bike is available in three color options namely Storm Fluo, Tech Black and Icon Blue.

    Price and launch
    Yamaha has not revealed the prices but one can expect a marginal hike owing to the tweaks and additional equipment. In Europe, the motorcycle is slated to hit the showrooms in March 2021. In the international markets, the Yamaha MT-07 competes with Kawasaki 650, Honda CB650R and the newly launched Triumph Trident.
    With its value for money quotient, the Yamaha MT-07 would be an interesting proposition for the Indian market but the previous edition was not on sale here. It remains to be seen if Yamaha will be interested in bringing the latest MT-07 to our market or not. More

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    2021 Kawasaki ZX10R, ZX10RR Spied Undisguised Ahead Of Global Debut

    2021 Kawasaki ZX10R
    The motorcycles appear to be equipped with a new TFT color instrument panel

    The 2021 Kawasaki ZX10R and ZX10RR liter-class supersbikes have been leaked through vehicle certification data that was submitted by the manufacturer to the Australian government’s department of Infrastructure, Transport, Cities and Regional Development. A set of low-resolution images give us an idea about the updates for the new model year.
    2021 Kawasaki ZX-10R and ZX-10RR
    Kawasaki reportedly filed the vehicle certification data with the Australian government in August 2020 with a request to keep the information under embargo till November 1. It appears that the Japanese sportsbike brand planned to unveil the facelifted twins before this date but the COVID related issues pushed the world premiere to November 23. The images which are now available in the public domain highlights the visual changes clearly.
    2021 Kawasaki ZX10RR
    The new ZX-10R and its sibling adopt a comprehensively redesigned fairing with H2-style front fascia. The sleeker two-part headlamp unit (likely to be LEDs) is set deep into an edgy front fascia. The side panels of the fairing have also been revised for a more streamlined look. The fuel tank and tailpiece have been carried forward without any noticeable changes but the liter-class twins appear to be adopting a new color TFT instrument console.
    The front turn indicators continue to be integrated into the rear view mirror housings. For the new model year, both ZX-10R (black) and ZX-10RR (green) sport matte finish.
    2021 Kawasaki ZX10R
    Specifications
    The duo continue to be powered by the familiar 998 cc inline four-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. The power outputs are identical to the outgoing models but they are generated at different engine speeds, suggesting that Kawasaki has introduced some tweaks. The changes are likely aimed at meeting the Euro 5 emission standards.
    The 2021 Kawasaki ZX-10R produces 200 hp at 13,300 rpm (300 rpm earlier than before) while the 2021 ZX-10RR produces 201 hp at 14,000 rpm (500 rpm later than before). The US-spec models will be available in a lower-spec 186 hp version.
    2021 Kawasaki ZX10RR
    As far as other hardware elements are concerned, the updated motorcycles seem to have soldiered on without any significant changes but we will have to wait for the world premiere to be sure. The Showa Balance Free Front forks and Brembo twin-disc brake system are visible on the images are are retained unchanged.
    Launch
    The 2021 Kawasaki ZX-10R and ZX-10RR are expected to reach international markets in early next year with a marginal hike in price. We expect the superbike to make its Indian debut a few months later. It will continue to rival the likes of Yamaha YZF-R1, Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade and so on. More

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    Ola Likely To Start Electric Scooter Production In India – In Search Of Suitable Land

    Etergo electric scooter image for reference
    The recent development is in line with the acquisition of Netherlands-based Etergo by Ola earlier this year

    One industry that was badly hit during the Covid-19 pandemic was the shared mobility sector. Since the outbreak of the virus was followed by a long stretch of lockdown in which public transportation was disallowed for better parts. This led to fleet owners and cab and rickshaw operators incur heavy losses.
    Even though the lockdown period is over and restrictions have been eased, people are still very apprehensive about opting for public transportation. This may continue for a long time since it is still sometime away before we attain pre-Covid normalcy. Hence, shared mobility firms have to think about alternate methods to expand their avenues of income.
    India’s largest shared mobility company Ola has decided to foray into electric scooter manufacturing in order to expand its business prospects in future. Switching gears from being a taxi aggregator to a vehicle manufacturer, the company is currently in talks with different state governments in order to procure land for its proposed manufacturing facility.
    As per reports, the Bengaluru-based mobility giant is looking for 100 acres of unencumbered land to build the world’s largest e-scooter facility. Currently, the largest two-wheeler manufacturing facility in the country belongs to Honda 2Wheelers India.
    Etergo electric scooter image for reference
    Its Gujarat based facility rolls out 1.2 million petrol-driven two-wheelers every year. This will also pit it against segment leaders such as Bajaj Auto, Hero MotoCorp and TVS Motor. The homegrown public mobility service has been backed Korean auto giant Hyundai.
    Ola’s acquisition of Etergo BV
    This development comes on the backdrop of Ola’s recent acquisition of Netherlands-based Etergo BV for an undisclosed amount earlier in May this year. 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. This acquisition has helped Ola Electric develop strong engineering and design capabilities as the company has had development experience with leading automotive brands like General Motors, Tesla, Ferrari, BMW and Jaguar.
    As of now, Ola’s senior management is in talks with government officials of four states- three in the South and one in the West. Currently, Karnataka and Maharashtra seem to be ahead in this race. Maharashtra has even started scouting for suitable land for the upcoming e-scooter manufacturing facility including prime locations in Pune, Nashik and Nagpur.
    Ola’s future in electric mobility
    According to sources, Ola is looking to set up a 2-million electric scooter capacity plant. While Maharashtra holds a geographical advantage due to its strategic location which eases exports, Karnataka on the other hand has been lauded for its forward-looking EV policies and incentives. Both Central and State governments have been offering incentives to companies venturing onto the electric vehicle business.
    With the future looking bright for EVs in India, Ola might want to utilize this opportunity to expand its avenues. Ola is still very tight-lipped about this development, however, the Bengaluru-based mobility firm intends to zero in on a manufacturing site soon as it aims to commence production in 18 months. The manufacturing site is expected to adopt Industry 4.0 philosophy and will use solar power and will have test tracks.
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    2020 TVS Apache 200 Launched – Gets Ride Modes, Adjustable Suspension

    2020 TVS Apache 200 New Colour
    The Apache range of bikes from TVS has had a successful run at the Indian market for almost fifteen years now

    A few days ago TVS Motor Company sent out a launch invite on the occasion of the brand commemorating 4 million global sales of its sporty range of motorcycles- Apache. Yesterday, the Hosur-based bike maker teased a new launch under the Apache moniker and left netizens frenzied.
    Fans of the Apache series of motorcycles have been wondering what this potential launch could actually be. Now, TVS has revealed the bike in its entire form and turns out it updated 2020 model of Apache RTR 200 4V. This new 2020 TVS Apache comes with subtle cosmetic updates in form of new colour and new features. Price is Rs 1.31 lakhs (ex-sh), which is Rs 1k more than existing Dual ABS Apache 200.
    New Updates
    The new Apache RTR 200 4V comes in a new shade of blue seen for the first time in this range. TVS says that this colour is inspired from racing. The overall Apache styling DNA remains intact, however, the addition of a new paint scheme and decals are tasteful and up the styling quotient by a notch. It still gets its signature sharp face for which the naked streetfighter is known for.
    Speaking about the new features, 2020 TVS Apache 200 now comes with first in segment ride modes – Sport, Urban and Rain. There is a dedicated ride mode switch, which helps rider to change ride modes on the fly.
    2020 TVS Apache 200 New Features
    It also gets adjustable front suspension. This will help the owner / rider to change the suspension setting as per their preference / road conditions. Levers are also adjustable – first in segment. ABS has been tuned as per ride mode selected.
    There have been no other changes in hardware either with the RTR 200 4V based on a double-cradle chassis with telescopic forks at front and a mono-shock from KYB at rear. Anchoring duties are carried out by petal disc brakes at both ends assisted by dual-channel ABS. Recently, TVS also launched an affordable variant of Apache RTR 200 4V which gets single-channel ABS.
    2020 TVS Apache 200 Ride Modes Explained
    Engine and Features
    Coming to its powertrain, it draws its power from a 197.7cc single-cylinder air-cooled, fuel-injected motor that churns out 20.5 PS of power and 16.8 Nm of torque. It is paired to a six-speed transmission with slipper clutch and assist. Comparing these figures to its BS4 predecessor, the BS6 iteration makes the same power but 1.3 Nm less torque. TVS has also equipped it with a first-in-segment Glide Through Traffic or GTT which helps the engine rev up and glide even at idling conditions.
    Even the equipment on the remains identical to the regular model. It comes with a SmartXonnect Bluetooth console which allows the rider to attend calls as well as text alerts and also make use of turn-by-turn navigation features. Apart from usual trip and bike related data, the console also reads out additional information such as lap times, top speed, and even lean angles.
    2020 TVS Apache 200 Adjustable Brake Levers
    TVS has priced this special edition Apache RTR 200 4V at Rs 1.31 lakhs (ex-showroom) which makes it a premium of Rs 1k over the standard dual ABS model. Apache RTR 200 4V locks horn with the likes of Bajaj Pulsar NS200, KTM 200 Duke and Honda Hornet 2.0.
    2020 TVS Apache 200 Adjustable Front Suspension More

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    Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Exhaust Sound At Idle, Full Revs – Thump No More?

    Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Exhaust Sound
    In a yet another leak of Royal Enfield Meteor 350, exhaust sound has been fully revealed

    Just when you thought that there could be no more leaks about the Royal Enfield Meteor 350, there comes yet another leak. This has been the story of Meteor 350 till now, a leaky affair – pun not intended. Except the price, everything else about this motorcycle has been already leaked.
    This at a time when a rival brand managed to launch a product in such a manner that almost no one had an idea what they were launching till the last minute.
    Yes, we are talking about the Honda CB350; whose launch to delivery start process was so sudden; that this was probably the reason behind Meteor 350 launch getting delayed to 5th November, instead of earlier planned launch in Sep 2020.
    Meteor 350 Exhaust Sound
    Anyways, coming back to Meteor 350 and its leaks. The latest leaked video gives a walkaround of the motorcycle. In addition, it also reveals the exhaust sound of the motorcycle – at idle as well as while revving to higher engine rpms. Take a look at the video by GreenFish TV.
    [embedded content]
    The Meteor 350 Supernova variant in the video is seen in dual tone finish of Brown and Black. The exhaust sound at idle has the iconic thump, for which the Royal Enfield motorcycles are known. But when the throttle is turned and revs are increased; it seems that the thump disappears and what you get is a motorcycle sound like most single cylinder motorcycles – and without the thump.
    Thump Missing At Higher Revs
    Royal Enfield motorcycle exhaust sound had the thump because of the push-rod engine setup along with longer stroke. Now with the new gen engines on board the Meteor 350; it is reported that the push-rod setup is no more. Instead, what is employed is most likely an SOHC setup and shorter strokes.

    What this does is reduces the vibrations and delivers a much smoother ride experience. It also delivers better performance and throttle response. But at the same time, has probably caused reduce in the thump effect at higher revs. Will this disappoint RE fans and buyers, only time will tell.
    New Gen Engine and Chassis
    The upcoming Meteor 350 and Classic 350 is based on the Chennai-based motorcycle brand’s new ‘J’ architecture. This means the overall mechanical packaging would be slightly different from the current model.
    From the spy images, it is evident that the 2020 Royal Enfield Meteor BS6 gets a redesigned headlamp unit, an updated semi-digital instrument cluster and a reworked handlebar design. Towards the rear, the fender and tail lamp have undergone changes as well. The split-seat configuration has been tweaked a bit to provide better ergonomics and pillion comfort.
    Owing to the mechanical changes required to cut down emissions, the engine casing is noticeably different from the current UCE unit. To improve efficiency, new FI system is employed. The engine misses the kicker as well. Overall, the changes are subtle to the eye, but well-rounded to provide a better riding experience. Price of Meteor 350 will be revealed at launch on 6th Nov. Exp price range is Rs 1.6-1.8 lakh, ex-sh. More

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    Benelli Imperiale 400 Diwali Offers Up To Rs 12k Announced

    Image for reference
    Benelli Imperiale 400 helps save over 10k if purchased this festive season

    With the ongoing festive season being hotbed for offers, Benelli India has now introduced its Diwali Sparkle Offer. This makes the Benelli Imperiale 400 an even more tempting offering. Diwali Sparkle Offer customers can own Imperiale 400 with savings up to Rs. 12,000 for the red and black colour option. It is to be noted here that the silver colour is already offered at a Rs 10k lower price as compared to the other two colours.
    Just as all good things come to an end, the festive offer is available for a limited time across all Benelli dealerships. With festive season sales sentiment always being stronger, and customers receiving more footfalls, the specially curated offer will will the manufacturer reach a wider audience, while making the value proposition on Imperiale 400 even more accessible for potential customers.
    Benelli financing option
    Benelli India has rolled out the offer in conjunction with a recently announced ‘Low EMI’ scheme of Rs. 4,999 with up to 85 percent funding. Available at a starting price of Rs. 1.99 lakhs onward, customers can book a Benelli Imperiale 400 for Rs. 6,000. Of course, this can be done online or at a dealership.
    The finance scheme is curated to be a convenience to ensure ease of purchase, which in turn would make the proposal more attractive for likely customers. This is in tandem with recent trends where finance options have been reworked to up the ease of purchase quotient keeping in mind disruption brought about by Covid-19 pandemic. The impetus is one that’ll yield positive response for bike that has already proven its popularity, having closed bookings at 4k units in 2019.

    Imperiale 400 retro-classic the manufacturer says is for ‘free spirits’, and strongly recalls brand heritage. Imperiale 400 owners are offered 3-year unlimited kms warranty, and 2-year complimentary service as standard’. 3rd-Year Annual Maintenance Contract (AMC), and 24X7 RSA service are on offer.
    Available in 3 colours, Red, Silver and Black, Imperiale 400 gets power from a SOHC, single-cylinder, four-stroke, air-cooled BS6 engine with electronic FI that returns 21PS @ 6000rpm, and max torque of 29Nm @ 3500rpm.
    Benelli Imperiale 400 colours
    Of course the specially curated offer is only on the Red and Black colour option this season. Regular price applies for the Silver Imperiale. Of course, it’s most likely a blink and you miss offer considering the season of festivity is spans for only a fortnight more.
    And even as Imperiale 400 goes about creating a strong buyer base, the manufacturer finds yet another bike to contend with in the Honda CB350. The latest segment entrant proves to be yet another chose for those interested in a mid-size segment offering.
    Interestingly, the segment now appears to be a lot more sizeable with the product range now being a handful as compared to just having to buy a Royal Enfield, which was the only option until a few years ago. More

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    Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Blue Colour With RTO Registered Number Plate – Spied

    Credit – Neelesh Bajaj
    Meteor 350 is all set to be launched in India on 6th Nov at an expected price tag of Rs 1.7 lakhs, ex-sh

    The successor to Thunderbird range, Royal Enfield Meteor 350 will be launched on November 6. A retro cruiser, Meteor 350 is distinguishable with its round halogen headlamp, LED DRLs, raised handlebars and forward-set footpegs. It will be offered in three variants – Fireball, Stellar and Supernova.
    Meteor will be utilizing an entirely new ‘J’ platform and a 349 cc single cylinder, air cooled engine. Power and torque output are 20.5 hp and 27 Nm. Engine is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. A rival to the recently launched Honda H’ness CB350, Meteor 350 is expected to be priced in the range of Rs 1.60 lakh to Rs 1.80 lakh, ex-sh.
    Meteor 350 RTO Registration
    Ahead of the actual launch, now an image of the Meteor 350 has surfaced with an RTO registered number plate. When checked with the RTO website, the bike is registered with Delhi RTO. Owner name is mentioned as Eicher Motors. Registration date mentioned is 22 Sep 2020 and validity is up to 21st Sep 2035.
    This is actually around the same time when the bike was originally planned for launch. But then Honda CB350 came into the picture out of nowhere, and RE’s Meteor launch plans were derailed.
    Royal Enfield Meteor 350 RTO registered.
    The above motorcycle is probably a media test ride unit. Ahead of launch this week, Royal Enfield has started media test rides across major cities of India. First ride reviews of Meteor 350 will be out on the same day of launch.
    Meteor 350 engine and chassis
    As revealed earlier, Meteor 350 will have an entirely new 349 cc, single cylinder, air cooled, FI engine. As compared to the earlier unit that had push-rod actuated valves, the new engine will have an SOHC (single overhead cam) setup. The new engine will deliver slightly more power and it will be smoother, as compared to the current BS6 350 cc engine that powers Royal Enfield motorcycles.
    The new engine is capable of delivering 20.2 bhp of max power at 6100 rpm and 27 Nm of max torque at 4000 rpm. That’s around 1 bhp more than the current engine. However, torque output has gone down by 1 Nm. The new engine will be mated to a 5-speed gearbox.
    Among other key changes, Meteor 350 will be utilizing the entirely new J platform. This platform will also be used for several other next-gen products that Royal Enfield will launch in the future.
    It is expected that Meteor 350 will be competitively priced in the range of Rs 1.60 lakh to Rs 1.80 lakh, ex-sh. It will rival the likes of Honda CB350, Jawa 300 and Benelli Imperiale 400. More