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    Royal Enfield First Stand Alone Store In Japan – Launches Himalayan, Classic, Bullet, 650 Twins

    Royal Enfield Japan Store
    Royal Enfield expands its global mid-sized motorcycle segment (250-750cc) presence by entering Japan

    Royal Enfield has announced the launch of its first standalone, flagship Store in Tokyo. With this, operations in Japan commence. The store is located in Suginami-Tokyo and has on display a wide range of Royal Enfield motorcycles.
    This strategic announcement is in line with Royal Enfield’s quest to grow its international business in the global mid-sized motorcycle segment (250-750cc). It’s Tokyo entry further strengthens Royal Enfield’s resolve in South East Asia.
    Vinod K Dasari, CEO, Royal Enfield said, “At the heart of everything we do, lies the fundamental experience of life that is authentic and real, and with that ideology we have not just pioneered and led, but also expanded the mid-size segment in India and across the world.”
    Royal Enfield sees the same opportunity in Japan. A nation with a huge commuter base that looks forward to upgrading to a motorcycle that enables the pursuit of exploration, and is accessible and practical enough for daily riding. Japan no doubt proves itself as an evolved motorcycling ecosystem built on a matured riding culture.
    Royal Enfield Japan Store
    Royal Enfield’s distributor, PCI Co
    Vimal Sumbly, Royal Enfield’s Head of Business – APAC markets, unveiled an ambitious outlook “Royal Enfield has become a very important player in the global mid-size motorcycle market by re-inventing this space with motorcycles that are evocative, engaging and great fun to ride. We are delighted to be formally entering Japan, which happens to be one of the key motorcycling destinations for avid motorcyclists around the world.”
    The endeavour is made possible through Royal Enfield’s distributor, PCI Co. Ltd. Royal Enfield is keen on building a bigger, more exciting motorcycle community in Japan. The motorcycle manufacturer plans for ambitious business growth and expansion in Japan, backed by best customer service and experience.
    Royal Enfield motorcycles line-up for Japan
    Royal Enfield has made its Japanese market entry with five of its motorcycles to introduce both its single-cylinder, and twin cylinder engines. The product portfolio includes Bullet 500; Classic 500; Himalayan (411cc); Int 650; and Continental GT 650.
    Royal Enfield Japan Store
    Having exercised its dominance in the mid-size segment for decades, Royal Enfield has in recent years set it’s target in international markets. In India it’s the 350cc segment that has been a winner for Royal Enfield. Overseas markets is where Royal Enfield is trying to strengthen its above 400cc market. With Japan being the manufacturer’s newest market addition. More

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    Ola Electric Scooter Spied Testing – Bajaj Chetak, Ather 450X Rival

    Ola Electric Scooter Spied
    The Ola electric scooter will be equipped with swappable lithium-ion battery pack which is expected to have a range of up to 240 km

    Ola Electric acquired Dutch-based Etergo electric scooter manufacturer last year and is working on building what is expected to be the world’s largest scooter factory. The company has tied up with Siemens to built the aforementioned factory in Tamil Nadu with an investment of INR 2,400 cr. The Ola electric scooter is expected to be launched in India sometime in second half of 2021.
    Ola electric scooter
    The Etergo AppScooter aka Ola electric scooter has been spotted testing at what looks like a private test facility in India. The camouflaged prototypes are identical to the international version in terms of styling and equipment. The scooter adopts a sleek bodywork with LED headlight, an unconventional single telescopic front suspension, alloy wheels, etc.
    The final specifications of the electric powertrain are not clear as of now but the AppScooter’s removable lithium-ion battery configuration is expected to be retained. Depending on the number of cells used, the scooter’s maximum range can be up to 240 km on a single charge. The 0-45 kmph comes in about 3.9 seconds and the scooter has an estimated top speed of around 100 kmph.
    Ola may make some noticeable changes to the AppScooter to make is more suitable for the Indian market and to keep the costs in check. There could also be multiple variants with different battery sizes to cover a wider range of audience.
    Ola Electric Scooter Spied
    Features
    Being a premium product, the Ola electric scooter will feature LED headlamp, LED tailight, alloy wheels, front disc brake, colour TFT instrument display with smartphone connectivity features, a dedicated smartphone app to interact with the scooter and so on.
    We expect the scooter to be priced upward to INR 1 lakh (ex-showroom). Intended rivals will be Ather 450X, Bajaj e-Chetak, TVS iQube and a whole other premium electric scooters that are on their way to our market.
    Manufacturing
    Upon completion, Ola Electric’s Tamil Nadu plant is said to generate 10,000 employment opportunities and have an installed annual production capacity of 2 million units. In addition to serving the promising Indian electric scooter market, the upcoming factory will also manufacture Ola electric scooter for international markets with focus on Europe, Asia and Latin America.
    As of now, achieving large scale production from the get go has been a challenge for the e-mobility startups in the country but with massive investment in the factory, Ola seems to have this issue covered (provided supply chain infrastructure is sorted as well). Kick starting retail operations across the country from day one would help Ola slingshot ahead of its rivals who are trying a phase-wise launch due to production and supply chain constraints.
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    2021 Benelli TRK 502 ADV Launch Price Rs 4.8 L – Bookings Open At Rs 10k

    2021 Benelli TRK 502
    BS6 updated Benelli TRK 502 is priced aggressively – This is introductory ex-sh price

    Benelli has expanded its BS6 lineup in India by introducing its adventure tourer TRK 502 in India. The updated TRK 502 has been reached dealerships across the country. The latest iteration of the tourer bike will not only have cleaner emissions but will feature several new updates.
    The middleweight ADV is priced from Rs 4.79 lakh ex-sh for the Grey colour and Rs 4.89 lakhs for the Red and White colour option. All prices are introductory, and ex-sh. TRK lineup consists of two new models- 502 and 502X, the latter being an even more off-road biased model. 502X has not been launched today, it is expected to be launched at a later date.
    Updated Design & Features
    The new 502 for India is starkly different from the updated TRK 502 which recently made its debut internationally. However, some of its design elements are borrowed from the international-spec model. For starters, the updated TRK 502 will receive reinforced aluminium frame knuckle guards, redesigned rearview mirrors and new handlebar grips.
    Furthermore, Benelli will be offering new backlit switches on handlebars for better convenience. The updated adventure motorcycle will come with a new semi-digital instrument console with an orange backlit LCD along with a white back-lit analogue tachometer.
    Mr. Vikas Jhabakh MD Benelli India with 2021 Benelli TRK 502
    Although it displays the same set of information displayed on the previous unit. Interestingly, these new updates are in line with its international sibling which debuted recently.
    Other notable changes include a new front mudguard finished in body colour instead of a blacked-out piece on the older TRK 502. Overall, design of the updated TRK 502 bears resemblance to its BS4 counterpart. Its traditional beak and seat along with the pillion grab rail and tail rack have been carried over from its predecessor.
    Although the seat’s profile is narrower and mounting for a pannier box is also different now. The new seat profile will help shorter riders manoeuvre this seemingly large bike in tight corners.
    2021 Benelli TRK 502
    Hardware carried over
    Underpinnings have been carried over from the outgoing model. Suspension setup is inverted USD forks at front and a rear mono-shock at rear. Alloy wheels wrapped around by road-biased tyres will be usual for the standard TRK 502. Stopping power will come from twin discs with radial caliper up front and a single disc at rear which will be assisted by dual-channel ABS as standard.
    Powertrain Specs & Expected Price
    The updated TRK 502 will feature the same 499.6cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine as in its predecessor although it will comply with the latest BS6 emission norms. In its BS6 guise, this powertrain will be capable enough to generate 46.8 bhp at 8,500rpm and 46 Nm at 6,000rpm. This unit will be mated to a six-speed gearbox. It is positioned between KTM 390 Adventure and Kawasaki Versys 650.
    2021 Benelli TRK 502 Specs
    Mr. Vikas Jhabakh, Managing Director, Benelli India, said, “We are delighted to introduce the BS-VI TRK 502. It is the perfect amalgamation of an innovative technological phenomenon, unmatched ergonomics, enhanced functionality and uncompromised quality. With the transition to BS-VI norms, we are confident in further strengthening our footprint in the premium touring segment.”
    He further added, “We are working towards expanding our dealership reach and will continue to add more models in the BS-VI format over the course of the year 2021, ensuring that there is something for every biking enthusiast in the Benelli portfolio.” More

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    TVS Sales, Exports Break Up Dec 2020 – Jupiter, Apache, Ntorq, XL 100

    Image – RJ TVS
    TVS Motor Company ended the year 2020 with positive domestic sales and exports

    TVS Motor Company, a leading two and three wheeler maker in India, released their sales figures for December 2020. It may be seen from the attached table that positive results were noted both in terms of domestic sales and exports.
    The company sold 1,76,912 units in domestic markets in the past month, up 12.51 percent as against 1,57,244 units sold in Dec 2019. Lead sellers in India included the XL 100 moped while the Jupiter and Apache also appealed to a wide range of buyers in the country.
    XL 100 sales topped the list with 59,923 units sold in the past month, up 31.21 percent as against 45,669 units sold in Dec 19. TVS XL 100 commands a 33.87 percent share in total sales. TVS Motor has also just released an XL 100 Winner Edition in India with a price tag of Rs. 49,599. This makes it Rs. 400 more expensive than the XL 100 i-Touch Special Edition.
    The TVS Jupiter scooter also noted increased sales in the past month, up 6.22 percent to 38,435 units, up from 36,184 units sold in Dec 19. Earlier this month, TVS also introduced a new variant of the Jupiter called SMW – Sheet Metal White. It is priced at Rs.63,497.
    TVS Sales Dec 2020
    TVS Apache and Ntorq
    The Apache and Ntorq also ended the year with positive growth, up 30.70 percent and 22.19 percent respectively as did the TVS Sport which has seen growth of 132.64 percent to 7,412 units sold in Dec 20 as against 3,186 units sold in the same month of the previous year.
    TVS Radeon and Pep+ along with the Zest scooter failed to gain any traction in domestic markets in Dec 20. All three models posted de-growth while sales of the TVS Star City increased 206.47 percent to 3,742 units, up from 1,221 units sold in Dec 19.
    The RR310 also noted a significant increase in demand with a 131.58 percent growth to 176 units, up from 76 units sold in Dec 19. The new iQube electric scooter also got delivered to 58 buyers in Dec 20. TVS had discontinued the Wego and Victor scooters early last year.
    TVS Exports Dec 2020
    TVS Exports up 42.30 percent
    Taking exports into account, the company noted a 42.30 percent YoY growth with positive sales across most model. Total exports in the past month stood at 80,060 units, a total of 23,799 units up from 56,261 units exported in Dec 19. The Star City 125 was a major draw in export markets.
    Exports of the Star City 125 stood at 26,359 units, up 62.39 percent as against 16,232 units exported in Dec 19. This scooter commands a 32.92 percent share in global markets. The Star City, Apache, Sport and Ntorq also noted positive exports with the Apache experiencing the most growth of 143.08 percent to 13,051 units in the past month.
    TVS XL and Victor exports also increased as did the Jupiter by 800 percent to 234 units, up from just 26 units exported in Dec 19. TVS Radeon exports ended in de-growth in Dec 20 down 31.58 percent to 520 units, from 760 units exported in Dec 19. More

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    2021 Suzuki Hayabusa Teased Ahead Of Feb 5 Debut – To Be World’s Fastest Again?

    2021 Suzuki Hayabusa Teaser
    The 2021 Suzuki Hayabusa retains the old-school analog speedo and tacho dials but also incorporates a TFT display in the instrument panel

    There has been a lot of talks about reincarnation of the Suzuki Hayabusa over the last few years. Finally, the company has announced that the new generation flagship will make its virtual world premiere on February 5. Suzuki has released a teaser video of the two-wheeled locomotive as a build up to the launch.
    2021 Suzuki Hayabusa
    The teaser video gives us a short glimpse of the 2021 Suzuki Hayabusa zooming past the camera in a dimly lit banked test track. Usually, a steeply banked test track is used to test a vehicle’s high-speed stability. It seems like Suzuki wants to reclaim the coveted record of world’s fastest road-legal production motorcycle with its upcoming crown jewel.
    Official details about the motorcycle are scarce and the teaser video only gives up the lighting signature of the 2021 Suzuki Hayabusa. Core character of the original models’ design is expected to be retained and that means an imposing front fairing, smooth surfaces, and a long wheelbase. It is reasonable to assume that the superbike will feature full LED illumination.
    Specifications
    As per previous international reports, the 2021 Suzuki Hayabusa is not going to be a grounds up new product but rather a heavily overhauled version of its predecessor which is no longer on sale. The aluminium twins-spar frame is expected to undergo significant improvements including a premium Kayaba suspension system. Take a look at the official teaser video of 2021 Hayabusa below.
    [embedded content]
    The engine architecture is also reported to be retained but the four-cylinder, in-line, liquid-cooled motor’s displacement is likely to be increased to around 1,440 cc. The increase in displacement would allow the company to comply with the latest emission norms without having to compromise on outright power output. Speaking of power, the 2021 Hayabusa is estimated to dish out upwards of 200 hp. Recent patent leaks indicate massive improvements to exhaust system.
    In terms of performance, latest generation of the iconic grand tourer would be aiming to surpass the Kawasaki Ninja H2. The teaser video showed the motorcycle’s traditional analog speedometer indicating a speed of 189 mph (288 kmph). The Hayabusa is known for smooth and effortless performance with a propensity for violence when called for, and we have no reason to suspect the new motorcycle will be any different.
    The 2021 Suzuki Hayabusa will pack state-of-the-art electronic systems including IMU supported cornering ABS and traction control. The top variant could also offer active suspension as an option.
    2021 Suzuki Hayabusa Teaser
    Will it come to India?
    The previous generation Suzuki Hayabusa was one of the most expensive motorcycles to be locally assembled in India. Suzuki’s decision to build it locally highlighted Hayabusa’s brand equity in our market. So, we expect the next generation model to be launched here a few month afters its international debut. Whether or not Suzuki choses to import as CKD or CBU remains to be seen. More

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    Joy E Bikes Launches 4 Electric Motorcycles – New EV Plant In Vadodara

    Joy E Bikes – Beast Electric Motorcycle
    The new Joy e-bike plant in Vadodara, Gujarat, is estimated to generate 6,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities

    Wardwizard Innovations & Mobility, the parent company of Joy e-bikes has invested around INR 45 crore on a new electric two wheeler manufacturing plant in Vadodara. The company has also announced the launch of 4 new high performance electric motorcycles via a virtual event presided over by minster of Home Affairs, Amit Shah.
    Joy e-bikes
    The new manufacturing plant in Vadodara has an annual installed production capacity of 100,000 electric two wheelers in one shift, in its first phase. The facility is estimated to create as many as 6,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities in the region.
    Joy E Bikes Launch Event Today
    Speaking at the launch event, Yatin Gupte, Chairman and MD, Wardwizard Group, announced that the company will manufacturing all the critical components of the electric motorcycles from frames to batteries in-house. Joy e-bikes is optimistic about capturing 25% market share in the burgeoning electric two wheeler space by 2025.
    Joy Beast, Thunderbolt, Hurricane and Skyline
    The brand which already retails 6 models across the country has augmented its portfolio with four new high-performance motorcycles. The Joy Beast is a naked street fighter with a styling nearly identical to Kawasaki’s Z series of motorcycles.
    Joy E Bikes – Hurricane Electric Motorcycle
    The fully faired Thunderbolt derives obvious design inspiration from the Kawasaki Ninja. The naked Hurricane and fully faired Skyline too have designs borrowed from popular medium displacement motorcycles.
    Joy E Bikes – Thunderbolt Electric Motorcycle
    Specifications and features
    Detailed specifications, prices and delivery timelines for the four new electric bikes are yet to be revealed. We expect them to go on sale sometime later this year.
    The products are likely to be equipped with lithium-ion battery packs to take advantage of the Indian government’s FAME-II subsidy. The company says that the new Beast and Hurricane motorcycles have a top speed of 120 kmph and can achieve full charge in 8-10 hours. The torque output stands at 230 Nm.
    Joy E Bikes – Skyline Electric Motorcycle
    Feature highlights include LED headlamp, front and rear disc brakes, LED instrument console, alloy wheels and so on. While we wait for the official pricing details, we expect the motorcycles to start well over INR 1 lakh (ex-showroom).
    Retail operations
    With Joy e-bike and Vyom Innovation brands, WardWizard has around 800 outlets across the country already. The four new products and a new manufacturing facility signals a firm push to accelerate its e-mobility business and unlike other startups, the company already has a decent presence in key markets.
    The electric two wheeler market in India is still nascent but has a promising outlook. While most OEMs are focusing on automatic scooters, there are some players like Tork, Ultraviolette, Revolt, Joy e-bike etc who are betting big on electric motorcycles. More

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    Aprilia SXR 160 TVC Video Released – Maxify Life

    Aprilia SXR160 TVC
    Designed in Italy for India, the Aprilia SXR 160 is a combination of a Maxi-scooter and a regular scooter

    Aprilia SXR 160 is the latest offering from Italian scooter makers Piaggio. It was showcased at the 2020 Auto Expo last year, launched in India in December 2020 and bookings opened soon after. Launch date was set for earlier last year but the pandemic situation caused some delay.
    Aprilia SXR 160 Design
    Now deliveries of this maxi-scooter have commenced in the country. The new SXR 160 is priced Rs.1,25,997. This ‘Made in India’ and ‘Made for India’ scooter has been designed in Italy. It boasts of a mix of design and as the company calls it a ‘Crossmax’ design combining the sportiness of a maxi-scooter along with the comfort and practicality of a regular scooter.
    It gets a full front apron and a tall windscreen and twin LED headlamps, LED DRLs, large seats, feather touch switchgear, lockable split glove box, USB charging port and 5 spoke 12 inch alloy wheels fitted with MRF Zapper tyres are also a part of its onboard features. Below is the latest TVC video.
    [embedded content]
    An all-digital instrument cluster makes for easy read out even under direct sunlight. It also receives two trip meters, real time fuel indicator, speed indicator and indicator showing battery voltage along with tell-tale lamps for engine malfunction.
    The maxi-scooter gets under-seat storage space for a full size helmet and a fuel tank of 7 liter capacity. The Aprilia SXR 160 is available in four colours of Glossy Red, Matt Blue, Glossy White and Matt Black.
    Engine, Braking and Suspension
    2021 Aprilia SXR 160 is powered by a 160cc, single cylinder, 3 valve, air cooled and fuel injected engine that also powers the SR160. This engine, which complies with the new BS6 emission standards, makes 10.9 hp power at 7,100 rpm and 11.6 Nm torque at 5,750 rpm.
    It gets telescopic front forks and single adjustable suspension at the rear while braking is disc brake up front and drum unit at the rear with ABS. Its chassis ensures better stability even at higher speeds while its highly efficient engine offers good low end and strong mid-range power output.
    The Aprilia SXR 160 is now being delivered to customers across India. It has no real competition in the country. As on date the Aprilia scooter lineup apart from the new SXR 160, consists of the SR160 and SR125. The Italian two wheeler maker also has plans to launch premium motorcycles later this year in India. More

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    Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS India Launch Price Rs 16.95 L

    2021 Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS
    Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS is based on a brand new chassis, receives new features and gets a new 1160cc 180 hp engine

    Triumph Motorcycles India have launched the 2021 Speed Triple 1200 RS today, at a starting price of Rs 16.95 lakhs, ex-sh. It is priced at £15,100 in the UK, which when converted is about Rs. 15.11 lakhs.
    Features
    Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS receives several improvements over its predecessor Speed Triple 1050. For starters, it is 10 kgs lighter than its earlier counterpart, weighing 198 kgs and sports a slimmer look with a compact frame and sleek LED headlamps. It also sees some change in its fuel tank which is of 15.5 liter capacity while the tail lamp has increased in size.
    High mounted twin exhausts seen in the Triple 1050 now change to a single exhaust canister on the 1200 RS while ergonomics are improved with its handlebar now 13mm wider and more forward positioned foot pegs. Perch is set at a height of 830 mm.
    The Triple 1200 RS sits on 17 inch light weight, case aluminum, V-spoke wheels with Metzeler RACETEC RR tyres while Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SC2 tyres can also be fitted as a factory approved track option.
    2021 Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS
    Triple 1200 RS gets fully adjustable Ohlins suspension and Brembo Stylema brakes. Performance also gets augmented with Optimized Cornering ABS and switchable Optimized Cornering Traction Control with IMU. This 6 axis IMU consists of 5 ride modes of Rain, Road, Sport, Track and Rider and lean sensitive traction control and cornering ABS.
    The feature list goes on to include a 5 inch TFT display with user interface, Triumph’s ‘My Connectivity’ system with turn by turn navigation and GoPro controls, keyless ignition, steering lock and keyless fuel filler cap.
    Street Triple 1200 RS gets color options of Sapphire Black, with red and silver graphics, or Matt Silver Ice, with black, silver and yellow graphics. The accessory list has also been enhanced with a total of 35 accessories for better styling, technology, luggage, protection and care.
    2021 Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS
    These include body coloured fly screen, tinted visor, machined sports bar end mirrors, front and rear brake reservoirs and accessory luggage with water resistant tank and tail bags, frame protectors, all weather covers and accessory battery charger.
    Engine
    Triumph Triple 1200 RS is powered by a completely redesigned engine. It is more compact but of higher capacity with every element designed for increased performance and better control and delivering the highest power-to-weight ratio ever seen on a Speed Triple. This 1160cc, inline, triple engine makes 180 hp power at 10,750 rpm and 125 Nm torque at 9,000 rpm which is around 30 hp and 8 Nm more than that offered by the engine on its predecessor.
    This makes the Speed Triple more powerful and faster making the 1200 RS the most powerful and torque rich Speed Triple ever. The engine gets mated to a 6 speed gearbox.
    It also receives a new lithium-ion battery which is 60 percent lighter than a lead acid battery thus reducing overall weight by 2.3 kgs. The battery charger offered is suited for both lithium ion battery and lead acid batteries. The Triumph Street Triple 1200 RS comes in with 10,000 miles (16k kms) service interval and 2 years unlimited mileage warranty. More