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      Bajaj Explains Why Freedom CNG Tank Is 2 Kgs And Not More To Give Higher Range

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      Bajaj Freedom CNG TankWhile a bigger CNG tank will mean fewer visits to the gas station, a motorcycle has inherent limitations due to its compact sizeWhen an entirely new product is launched, it is natural for people to have various questions and queries. At the Q&A session held during the launch event of Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG bike, the panellists responded to the queries and provided some valuable insights.Why Bajaj Freedom 125 couldn’t get a bigger CNG tank?Petrol powered 125cc commuter bikes usually have fuel tank capacity of around 10-11 litres. But in the case of Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG bike, the total fuel capacity is 2 Kg of CNG and 2 litres of petrol. Bajaj claims mileage of 102 km per kg for the CNG and around 65 km per litre with petrol. The overall range comes around at 330 km. While this seems quite adequate, many people may frown upon the limited 2+2 fuel carrying capacity.Bajaj Freedom CNGResponding to a question why Freedom 125 does not get a larger CNG tank of say 4-5 kgs, which will increase the ride range on full tank to 500+ kms, the panellists provided all the technical details. The two main reasons for not having a larger CNG tank include the cost involved and the limited capacity of the bike. Just looking at the CNG tank placed under the seat reveals the huge size. Bajaj is using high-quality PESO certified CNG tanks, made from thick sheet metal.The CNG tank itself weighs 16 kg, probably making it the second heaviest single component of the bike after the engine. Add 2 kg of CNG and the weight reaches 18 kg. With the heavy duty CNG tank and supporting safety equipment, Bajaj Freedom 125 has a kerb weight of 149 kg. This is already much higher than petrol-powered 125cc bikes. For example, Honda Shine 125 weighs 113 kg whereas Hero Super Splendor has kerb weight of 123 kg.Impact on ride dynamicsAdding any more weight to Freedom 125 would have impacted the bike’s ride dynamics. Fuel efficiency could also have been reduced. The large size of the fuel tank clearly shows that there’s hardly any space to accommodate a larger CNG tank. Explanation from Bajaj regarding why the CNG tank is 2 kgs capacity can be seen in the video below from 35:10 mark.[embedded content]Cost constraintsAnother reason for not having a larger CNG fuel tank relates to the cost aspects. The entire dual-fuel CNG + petrol setup is quite expensive. Adding a larger CNG tank will probably necessitate new components, especially for safety reasons. The CNG tank itself is quite expensive. As Bajaj was aiming at a starting price of less than Rs 1 lakh, the 2 kg CNG tank was just right from the cost perspective.Refuelling challengesThe Q&A panellists also talked about the prevailing CNG dispensing pressure at gas stations. At around 180 to 200 bars, the pressure may not be enough to fully utilize the available storage space. The panellists requested gas suppliers to increase the dispensing pressure to around 350 bar. This will allow more CNG to be filled in the same available space.In the future, Bajaj may take measures to reduce the weight of the CNG bike. For that, one of the options is to use composite materials. Such steps will be taken after the cost aspects are taken care of. More

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      TVS Jupiter CNG Testing Starts – Codename U740 Launch Within 3 to 12 Months

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      Image for illustration onlyKnown for its R&D prowess, TVS could introduce various segment-first features with its CNG scooterA few days back, Bajaj launched the world’s first CNG motorcycle. Now, reports indicate that TVS is working on a similar project. With possibilities of a festive season launch, TVS Jupiter CNG will be the world’s first CNG scooter.TVS Jupiter CNG scooter – What to expect?Reports indicate that TVS has been working on multiple alternate fuel options for its two-wheelers. One of these is a CNG powertrain that is already in a ready-to-use format. It just needs to be integrated with the Jupiter scooter. The project is internally codenamed U740 and the development of the 125cc CNG scooter is already underway.TVS Jupiter. Image for illustrationTVS Jupiter CNG scooter – launch dateAlthough the CNG powertrain is reported to be ready, the integration with Jupiter 125 may take some time. The upcoming festive season can be a good opportunity to introduce the world’s first CNG scooter. But considering that new components and safety features have to be rigorously tested, the launch may take a bit longer. It can stretch to the end of 2024 or the first quarter of 2025. However, to get the first mover advantage, launch of TVS Jupiter CNG bike may not be delayed beyond the first half of 2025.Modest production goalsTVS has plans to sell around 1,000 units of its CNG scooter per month. The company’s focus is on providing a cleaner alternative to users and also to reduce its carbon footprint. While evaluating alternative fuel options, TVS will continue to focus on ICE and EV segments. Later this year, TVS has plans to launch an entirely new electric vehicle. A new ICE vehicle is also scheduled for launch this year. An electric 3-wheeler will be introduced as well.It remains to be seen if TVS will offer a dual-fuel CNG + Petrol option or go with CNG alone. While the dual-fuel option will be more useful, a CNG-only variant can reduce the ownership cost. A dual-fuel setup requires additional components, something that increases the cost of the scooter. Talking about the price, TVS Jupiter CNG scooter could start at under Rs 1 lakh. The petrol-powered Jupiter 125 is currently available at a starting price of Rs 79,000.Other brands could also introduce CNG two-wheelersIt is to note that the government has been encouraging two-wheeler brands to introduce CNG options for consumers. It won’t be surprising that other players in the commuter segment such as Hero MotoCorp and Honda also announce similar plans soon. CNG two-wheelers can significantly reduce the fuel cost burden on the masses. It will also help reduce the country’s energy import bills.The government has launched new policies that will help increase domestic production of CNG. As compared to crude oil reserves, India has larger reserves of natural gas. With extraction of natural gas from newly discovered reserves, India can reduce its dependence on CNG imports.Source More

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      Bajaj Freedom CNG Tank Filling – Public Reactions On Cam (Ye Chalega Abhi, Petrol Nahi Parwadta)

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      Bajaj Freedom CNG Tank Filling ExperienceHeadline figures of Bajaj Freedom CNG bike are 2kg CNG capacity with 102 km/kg, 2L Petrol tank with 67 Km/l and 330km range on one fillCNG as a fuel is gaining popularity quite a bit in the recent past. So much so, that Bajaj Auto has even launched world’s first ever CNG motorcycle in the form of Freedom 125. Bajaj has provided us with a Freedom 125 for a first ride review. As there is an embargo on sharing the review and opinion, we will not be able to tell you how the bike is. What we can show you, is the public reaction about the experience we had at the CNG fuelling station earlier today.Bajaj Freedom CNG Tank FillingThis is the first time a 2W vehicle manufacturer has launched a CNG motorcycle. Freedom 125 CNG is the first of its kind and is capable of running on both CNG and Petrol fuels. Bajaj has provided a toggle on left switchgear that seamlessly switches between CNG and Petrol. This is a very neat feature and allows convenience and “freedom” for buyers.Bajaj Freedom CNG Tank Filling ExperienceWhen it comes to refilling Bajaj Freedom, it is not a cakewalk, considering the fewer CNG filling stations. First thing we realised is the sheer number of CNG vehicles in big cities like Pune and fewer CNG filling stations in contrast. Resulting in vast queues at CNG stations from auto rickshaws, cabs and fleet drivers.We went to Ghorpadi CNG station in Koregaon Park, Pune, to refill Freedom 125 for the first time. Because India is still in a honeymoon phase with Bajaj Freedom 125, we were luckily allowed to bypass the rather long queue. Other customers didn’t protest, which might not be the case in the future, once there are many CNG 2Ws on the road.Bajaj Freedom CNG Tank Filling ExperienceHow smooth was the procedure?While refilling, we did not encounter any hassles and the process went smoothly, accepting CNG at a decent pressure. However, CNG station staff were witnessing an OEM CNG bike for the first time and we were not asked to stand far away from the motorcycle while refilling. In excitement of refilling the world’s first CNG bike for the first time, we missed getting away from the motorcycle while refilling.Bajaj Freedom CNG Tank Filling ExperienceHazards of static electricity build-up from fabric seats and CNG smell in a car with all windows closed, doesn’t apply to Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG motorcycle. However, standing far away while refuelling a CNG motorcycle is still the recommended practice. That is because the high pressure involved in the CNG filling process might result in unwanted bursts or other related hazards. We will be more cautious in the future and suggest the same for everyone else. Bajaj has done extensive safety tests on Freedom 125 and promises a robust system without any hazards.Public reactions!Riding Bajaj Freedom 125 in Pune city, or on the highway attracts a lot of eyeballs. It is probably the hottest motorcycle in India and garners a lot of interest among general consensus. There have been many instances where riders overtook me on the highway, requested me to stop and enquired about this motorcycle. In the city, that effect is compounded further.Bajaj Freedom CNG Tank Filling ExperienceAt Ghorpadi CNG station in Koregaon Park, Pune, we had to explain to the operators that this is a CNG motorcycle and we were not lost in search of petrol. Apart from the operators, Freedom 125 also irked the interest of many bystanders and customers of auto rickshaws and cabs. Soon, Freedom 125 attracted a fair number of admirers and all of them were curious to know more about it. Video below captures the entire experience.[embedded content]“Kitna deti hai”, “kitne ki hai”, “kitna CNG aata hai” were primary questions and not a single one of them were concerned about the bike’s performance. We saw people’s faces light up when they heard Freedom 125’s low running costs and its introductory prices. Few were interested in the technical aspects like bike starting on CNG and the switching to petrol. Many expressed their enthusiasm about the bike’s long seat and we didn’t find a single soul that disliked Freedom’s unique design. One guy even went on to say, “Ye Chalega Abhi, Petrol Nahi Parwadta” (This bike will be in demand as petrol has become too expensive).Experiencing the CNG refuelling process of Bajaj Freedom 125, we have a few thoughts. Firstly, there is a need to rapidly expand the existing CNG station network to ease the process for auto rickshaws, cabs, fleet operators and now, motorcycles. Separate queues for motorcycles in CNG stations is something to think about as they take very less time. Making CNG station personnel and CNG motorcycle buyers aware of safety precautions is paramount too. More

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      2024 TVS Apache RTR 160 Race Edition Launched – Rs 1.29 L, Sportier Design

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      TVS Apache RTR 160 Race EditionNew 2024 TVS Apache RTR 160 Race Edition has a price tag of Rs 1.29 lakh, making it the most expensive variant on saleTVS Motor Company has extended the variant lineup of Apache RTR 160 with a new top-spec variant. Called Apache RTR 160 Race Edition, the company is carving out a sportier looking version of Apache RTR 160, which was already a sporty bike, to begin with. Revised styling is the name of the game here. Let’s take a look.2024 TVS Apache RTR 160 Race EditionAfter launching Black Edition of Apache RTR 160 and Apache RTR 160 4V motorcycles, TVS Motor has launched the Race Edition of Apache RTR 160. Priced at Rs 1,28,720 (Ex-sh), Apache RTR 160 Race Edition is now the most expensive variant on offer with this bike.To make the standard bike more race-y, TVS revised the styling with Race Edition is the embodiment of company’s ethos and race inspired design for enthusiast bikers. Leaning on their rich racing heritage is something TVS likes to do and the same reflects with Apache RTR 160 Race Edition.The main highlight of this new variant is its Matte Black colour scheme, Race Edition logo, Carbon Fibre race inspired graphics and lastly, those swanky red alloy wheels. The new Race Edition adds to an already extensive colour palette of Apache RTR 160 and slots itself at the top.TVS Apache RTR 160 Race EditionFor context, other colours for Apache RTR 160 2V are T Grey, Matte Blue, Racing Red, Gloss Black, Pearl White, Glossy Black (Black Edition) and the newest, Racing Edition. While Black Edition in Glossy Black is still the stealthiest, Race Edition looks sportier.Features and SpecsTVS Apache RTR 160 boast of segment first features like fuel injection, dual channel ABS and slipper clutch, Bluetooth enabled fully digital instrument cluster with SmartXonnect technology has turn-by-turn navigation as well. LED head and tail lamps, new body graphics, and TVS Connect App are notable features.Riders can also select between three riding modes of Rain, Urban and Sport. Race telemetry, calls and SMS alerts, gear position and gear shift indicators along with lap timer, adjustable brightness, crash alert system and GTT (Glide Through Tech) are some of the features too.TVS Apache RTR 160 Race Edition2024 TVS Apache RTR 160 Race Edition continues to be powered by the same 159.7cc air cooled engine offering 16.04 bhp peak power and 13.85 Nm peak torque, mated to a 5 speed gearbox.Statement from TVS MotorVimal Sumbly, Head Business – Premium, TVS Motor Company, said, “The TVS Apache series has consistently led the way in innovation, and bringing state-of-the-art technology to enthusiasts. With a robust community of 5.5 million TVS Apache riders worldwide, this launch underscores the company’s dedication to delivering aspirational products that reflect TVS Motor’s racing heritage and engineering excellence, addressing the evolving needs of our customers.The motorcycle highlights TVS Motor Company’s engineering expertise, incorporating a range of advanced technologies and performance upgrades. In line with this commitment, the all-new 2024 TVS Apache RTR 160 Racing Edition, is ready to set new standards in its segment, offering unmatched performance, advanced features, and a unique race-inspired design.” More

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      Rajiv Bajaj To Hero MotoCorp At Bajaj CNG Bike Launch – Tiger Zinda Hain

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      Nitin Gadkari, Rajiv Bajaj, Rakesh Sharma at the CNG Bike LaunchWith its Freedom 125 CNG bike, Bajaj can now effectively challenge the ‘fill it, shut it, forget it’ killer campaign of the 90sFortunes keep changing in the business world, as new competitors emerge and grab a larger market share. There are also occasions where an earlier dethroned leader may reclaim its lost glory. In the context of the long rivalry between Bajaj and Hero Honda in the commuter segment, it appears that the former may now have an upper hand with its Freedom 125 CNG motorcycle.Tiger Zinda Hain – says Rajiv BajajAt the Q&A session held during the launch of the world’s first CNG bike, some interesting facts and insights were revealed. One of the questions asked was about the reasons why a petrol bike user will switch to CNG. Responding to that, Rajiv Bajaj shared the complete story thus far.Bajaj Freedom 125 CNGIt was in the 1990s when Hero Honda had started winning the trust and confidence of users in the commuter segment. With reliable products such as CD100 and the promise of higher mileage, an increasing number of people started shifting from scooters to motorcycles. Rajiv mentions that a motorcycle with around 80 km/L mileage was naturally preferred by people over a scooter that gave only 40 km/L. It clearly indicates that fuel bills were an important decision-making factor for users in the commuter segment.Based on sales data, Rajiv points out that it was in 1997-1998 that Hero Honda overtook Bajaj in two-wheelers sales in the domestic market. It was a defining moment, as a new leader had emerged in the two-wheeler industry. The shift was so dramatic that Bajaj eventually had to close down its scooter business. Instead, the company started focusing on the motorcycle segment.Bajaj Freedom 125 CNGRemembering the old times, Rajiv mentions that the late Hero Honda Chairman Brijmohan Lall Munjal had called Bajaj as a wounded tiger. Munjal had asked its dealers to be careful of the wounded tiger. This was after Hero Honda had taken a lead over Bajaj in two-wheeler sales. Now, after around 30 years, Bajaj is in a position to avenge their loss against their primary rival.To describe the situation in typical Bollywood style, Rajiv Bajaj said that the message of Freedom 125 CNG bike 30 years later is “Tiger Zinda Hain”. Below is the Media QnA session recording from the Bajaj CNG launch. The story about Tiger Zinda Hain remark starts at about 27:30 mark.[embedded content]Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG – Truly a pioneering projectWhile it is difficult to predict consumer response, Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG motorcycle has significant potential. One is looking at certified mileage of over 100 km/L when the bike is running on CNG. Add to that the savings that will come from the lower cost of CNG vs. petrol. Across most locations, CNG is around Rs 15 to Rs 20 cheaper than petrol.Apart from the fuel cost savings, Freedom 125 CNG bike offers various other advantages. It is the world’s first hybrid CNG bike with petrol as a dual-fuel option. Users can seamlessly switch from CNG to petrol and vice-versa with just the press of a button. Other highlights include an extra-long seat, a unique mono-linked type suspension, advanced safety features, digital speedometer and Bluetooth connectivity. Pricing is also quite reasonable, starting at Rs 95,000. More

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      Two Wheeler Sales June 2024 – Hero, Honda, TVS, Bajaj, Suzuki, RE

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      New Hero Splendor 01 Edition. Image – Dev MtrHero, Honda and TVS commanded the top 3 spots with an 80% combined market shareIn June 2024, the 6 leading two wheeler makers in India, Hero, Honda, TVS, Bajaj, Suzuki and Royal Enfield showed mixed performance. While positive domestic sales on a YoY basis were recorded, MoM sales fell marginally. Exports also showed better performance on a YoY basis but ended negatively MoM. Two wheeler domestic sales of these 6 leading OEMs reached a total of 15,44,157 units in June 2024, a 22.73% year-on-year (YoY) growth over 12,58,192 units sold in June 2023 relating to a 2,85,965 unit volume growth. MoM sales however saw a very marginal decline of 0.11% from 15,45,789 units sold in May 2024.Two Wheeler Sales June 2024 – Hero MotoCorp Leads Domestic SalesHero MotoCorp headed the list with 4,91,4156 units sold, a 16.24% YoY growth over 4,22,757 units sold in June 2023. It was also a 2.50% MoM improvement in sales as against 4,79,450 units sold in May 2024. The company noted strong demand for its Xtreme 125 and VIDA V1 models while the upcoming Destini scooter could take on competition aggressively in the 125cc segment.Two Wheeler Sales June 2024At No. 2, Honda two wheeler sales also showed YoY and MoM growth at 59.40% and 7.10% respectively to 4,82,597 units. Market share also improved from 29.15% held in May 2024 to 31.25% in the past month. In June 2024, TVS Motor saw an 8.44% YoY growth to 2,55,734 units while the company had sold 2,35,833 units in the same month last year. MoM sales however, suffered a setback as sales declined by 5.68% when compared to 2,71,140 units sold in May 2024.While Bajaj Auto (1,77,207 units) and Suzuki (71,086 units) each posted 6.56% and 12.73% YoY improvement in domestic YoY sales, both companies saw lower MoM performance, falling by 5.91% and 22.76% respectively. Bajaj Auto expects to see great results with the new Freedom, the world’s first CNG-powered bike, which is priced at Rs 95,000. On the other hand, Royal Enfield sales dropped 2.04% YoY but improved by 2.93% on a MoM basis to 66,117 units.Two Wheeler Sales June 2024Two Wheeler Exports June 2024 – Bajaj LeadsTwo wheeler exports in June 2024 ended on a positive note with a 2.53% YoY growth to 2,65,332 units, up from 2,58,790 units shipped in June 2023. MoM exports however faced some challenges and saw a decline by 9.27% when compared to 2,92,435 units exported in May 2024. Bajaj Auto was once again the highest exporter of two wheelers in June 2024 with 1,26,439 units shipped last month despite a marginal 0.72% YoY decline. Currently commanding a 47.65% share in terms of exports, the company saw its MoM performance improve by 7.94%.Two Wheeler Exports June 2024TVS exports dipped both YoY and MoM by 3.11% and 24.89% respectively to 66,434 units while Honda has reported a very strong YoY improvement in exports with a massive 69.67% YoY growth. Honda exported 36,202 units last month, up from 21,337 units sold in June 2023 while MoM shipments dipped 13.51%. Suzuki (17,201 units) and Hero (12,032 units) have both posted both YoY and MoM decline in exports while Royal Enfield exports grew on a MoM basis by 2.81% to 7,024 units.Two Wheeler Total (Sales + Exports) June 2024 – Honda LeadsTotal sales (domestic and export) figures reached 18,09,489 units, relating to an 19.28% increase from sales of 15,16,982 units in June 2023. However, this was offset by a decline of 1.56% compared to May 2024 figures which had stood at 18,38,224 units. Honda was at No.1 with 5,18,799 units sold in June 2024, a 60.08% YoY growth over 3,24,093 units sold in June 2023. In May 2024, it was Hero MotoCorp that was the No. 1 best seller with total sales of 4,98,123 units which improved to 5,03,448 units in the past month.Two Wheeler Total (Sales + Exports) June 2024Positive sales were also reported by TVS which improved by 5.84% on a YoY basis to 3,22,168 units but declined MoM by 10.41%. Bajaj Auto also showed affirmative total sales at 3,03,646 units, up 3.40% YoY but suffered a 0.60% MoM decline. It was also Suzuki that reported a 9.35% YoY growth but a massive 20.83% MoM decline in total sales to 88,287 units. Royal Enfield on the other hand, with a total of 73,141 units sold last month, saw a 5.15% YoY de-growth while MoM sales improved by 2.91%. These total sales figures show off better YoY sales of these 6 leading OEMs but lower MoM performance highlighting volatile market performance. More

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      Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Walkaround Render – New Yellow Colour Spied

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      Royal Enfield Guerrilla 3D RenderUpon launch, Guerrilla 450 will take on rivals such as Speed 400, CB300R, Mavrick 440, X440, Pulsar NS400Z and 390 DukeAiming for more traction in the 450cc segment, Royal Enfield will be launching the Guerrilla 450 on 17th July. Recent spy shots have revealed quite a few details about the bike. A digital 3D render with 360° view provides a better idea about the bike’s overall look and feel. The digital 3D render is credited to TrippleLines.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 3D Render3D render reveals a sporty, agile machineWhile Himalayan 450 can feel a bit bulky with its off-roading gear and larger wheels, Guerrilla 450 has nimble characteristics. A similar design approach was followed with the Hunter 350, which has worked out extremely well. Hunter is currently the second best selling Royal Enfield bike in India. Preferences of the younger generation are more in favour of easily manoeuvrable bikes, something that reflects in new products like Hunter and Guerrilla.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 3D RenderRoyal Enfield Guerrilla 450 has a sharp profile, as evident in the 3D render. Some of the key features include circular headlamp and rear-view mirrors, fork gaiters, sculpted fuel tank, rugged engine cowl, a single piece seat and upswept exhaust. The bike has 17-inch wheels at both ends, shod with road-biased tyres. Both ends have disc brakes and dual-channel will be available as standard.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 3D RenderWith a low seat height, Guerrilla 450 can cater to the needs of a wide segment of users. Ergonomics are fairly comfortable with the wide handlebar and centrally mounted footpegs. The bike is built for urban streets, but can also handle mild off-road trails.[embedded content]Base variant will be equipped with a semi-digital instrument screen and a Tripper Screen. This setup is the same as that of Super Meteor. Top-spec variant will be getting the TFT Tripper Dash from Himalayan 450. It is the world’s first circular full-map navigation system based on Google Maps platform. With the Royal Enfield app, users can access music, calls and various other functions.Royal Enfield Guerrilla New Yellow ColourGuerrilla 450 new colours revealedA few days back, spy shots had revealed a single-tone Matte Grey and a dual-tone Red-Gold colour options for Guerrilla 450. The single-tone colour will be available with the base variant, whereas the dual-tone option will be exclusive with the top model. New colours spy shots are credited to Bullet Guru.Royal Enfield Guerrilla New Yellow ColourNow, a new yellow shade has also been revealed for Guerrilla 450. Apart from the colour, this yellow variant also gets distinctive checkered-flag graphics on the fuel tank. Among the three colour choices, the yellow one seems the most attractive. Many enthusiasts have also expressed their liking for the yellow Guerrilla.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 ColoursAnother unique aspect of this variant is that the yellow shade has been used only on the fuel tank and rear tail section. This creates a more exciting contrast with the blacked-out parts. In comparison, the other two colour options have the respective shades applied on the front fender as well. More colour options could be introduced for Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 in the future. More

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      Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono Launch Price Rs 16.5 Lakh – RVE Arrival Later

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      Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono LaunchedDucati Hypermotard 698 Mono debuts company’s new Superquadro Mono 659cc single cylinder liquid-cooled engine that makes 77.5 bhp and 63 NmOne of the most anticipated bikes from Ducati has finally launched in India. We’re talking about Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono, which is debuting the company’s new Superquadro Mono engine. Adhering to Supermoto genre, Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono will soon revv the hearts of enthusiasts in India.Ducati Hypermotard 698 MonoInterestingly, Ducati India has priced Hypermotard 698 Mono at Rs 16.5 lakh, which came as a surprise considering Hypermotard 950 RVE, the L-twin engine equipped motorcycle, costs Rs 50,000 less. That is because Hypermotard 698 is a full import brought as a CBU from either Italy or Thailand.Ducati Hypermotard 698 MonoNot only is Hypermotard 698 Mono a single-cylinder engine, as the name suggests, but it also doesn’t even get a quick shifter as standard. A standard quick shifter is offered with Hypermotard 698 RVE, which will arrive at a later date, for additional cost, of course.Ducati has announced that the new Hypermotard 698 Mono will be on display at their official dealerships starting today. Deliveries of Hypermotard 698 Mono will commence by the end of July. There is only one colour option with Hypermotard 698 Mono – Ducati Red.Ducati Hypermotard 698 MonoDesign is unmistakably Ducati, falling under their Hypermotard range of Supermoto style motorcycles. Distinct Ducati design, sophisticated electronic package, lightweight chassis, and comfortable ergonomics, muscular double exhaust design, Y-shaped alloy wheels, front beak, LED headlights with double C-shape signature are some of the notable attributes of a Hypermotard 698 Mono.Record-breaking Superquadro Mono engineMain highlight, however, is its Superquadro Mono engine. Unlike what the bike’s name suggests, this single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine displaces 659cc and kicks out 77.5 bhp and 63 Nm, making it the most powerful single-cylinder engine in the world. Notable componentry include Marzocchi USD front forks, Sachs mono-shock rear, single disc setup at either end with Brembo M4.32 callipers at the front and more.New Ducati Single Cylinder EngineAll these are mounted on a steel trellis frame and it also gets a fancy aluminium swingarm. There are a few electronic rider aids as well, in the form of ABS Cornering, Ducati Traction Control, Ducati Wheelie Control, Engine Brake Control, and Ducati Power Launch.Statement from Ducati IndiaCommenting on the launch, Bipul Chandra, Managing Director, Ducati India, said, “The Hypermotard 698 Mono embodies the unbridled thrill of motorcycling in its purest form. This is more than just a machine; it’s a declaration of individuality. Ducati’s engineering prowess is on full display with the world’s most powerful single-cylinder engine, a masterpiece of performance that delivers exhilarating power with every twist of the throttle.Ducati Hypermotard 698 MonoIt now comfortably sits at the pinnacle of a segment which is not the most popular in our country, but we are committed to launch all new Ducati models in India, especially the ones as special and technologically advanced as the Hypermotard 698 Mono!” More