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  • New Bajaj Pulsar TVC has Stunts with Social Distance Message

    The latest Bajaj Pulsar TVC features RS200 and NS200 variants performing synchronized stunts at a deserted port
    The new Bajaj Pulsar TVC anthem is an ode to current times. Addressing the need to maintain 2 metre physical distance between folks (the yellow line markers), it talks about breaking barriers in the current world we live in, and the paths one will have to create. Bajaj Pulsar TVCs have always involved spectacular stunts and catchy audio track. The latest release isn’t any different.
    Bajaj Pulsar TVC

    The video features Bajaj Pulsar RS200 and Pulsar NS200 motorcycles performing synchronized stunts at a deserted port. Like all the previous TVCs, the new one demonstrates the Pulsar models’ sporty character and handling.
    The video also revealed new color theme for the Pulsar NS200 street fighter. The RS200 on the other hand is represented in its existing blue and white colour theme. Take a look at the TVC video below.
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    Bajaj Pulsar NS200 New Colour?
    The pair of new Bajaj Pulsar NS200 examples featured in the video are swathed in new red and white dual-tone colour theme. The street fighter features white painted alloy wheels and chassis members for the first time in its existence. While the graphics on the fuel tank and its extensions are consistent with the existing model, the tailpiece seems to have fresh decals with a bit of black in the mix. There are no other visual changes to the naked motorcycle.
    The new colour could be introduced sometime in the future but it is to be noted that the video features a clear disclaimer which reads as follows: “Products shown are for illustration purpose only and they may not be an exact representation of the product. Actual colours and accessories may vary.” So, for now, we would not be expecting the red-white liveried NS200 to hit the showrooms.
    Bajaj Pulsar RS 200 and NS 200 motorcycles performing stunts with social distancing
    Festive season push
    The Bajaj Pulsar nameplate has been a cash cow for the company for nearly two decades now. With regular updates, ever expanding lineup and constant marketing push, Bajaj has been managing to keep the Pulsar brand the best seller it its segment. The iconic TVCs play an important role in shaping Pulsar as a youthful and energetic brand.
    With the festive season upon us, motorcycle makers are gearing up for a significant increase in demand. The new-found preference for private transportation is also expected to reinforce the positive customer sentiment we usually see around this time of the year. The new promotional video comes right in time to take full advantage of the scenario. More

  • Bajaj Pulsar NS200 Modified Scrambler – Gets LED Lights, Knobby Tyres

    The modified Bajaj Pulsar NS200 scrambler retains stock fuel tank and side panels but gets new headlamp and tailpiece
    The Bajaj Pulsar NS200 enjoys a sizable fan following in export markets, especially in Turkey and Southeast Asian nations. In The Philippines, the naked motorcycle is marketed under Kawasaki brand and is called as the Rouser NS200. We have come across a tastefully modified Rouser NS200 from the country.
    Modified Bajaj Pulsar NS200

    The modified motorcycle adopts a hard-core scrambler style and as evident from the pictures, the Bajaj Pulsar NS200 embraces the transformation effortlessly. While the end product looks completely different from the stock motorcycle, changes are actually not that extensive.
    The modified Bajaj Pulsar NS200 ditches its trademark headlamp assembly in favour of a circular LED unit and a simple bodywork. This alone gives the street fighter a whole new identity. The modifiers went on to replace the stock front fender with a high-raised plastic unit to give it an off-road feel.

    The tailpiece has been done away with and in its place lies a tastefully executed red leather saddle. The rear tyre hugger has also been deleted but the motorcycle gains a custom rear fender which is mounted on the rear sub-frame.
    The motorcycle retains stock fuel tank and side panels but the silver paint job is bespoke. The scrambler also sports custom engine guard and rear-view mirrors which are mounted at either end of the handlebar.
    Off-road elements
    The most significant modifications however are the humongous knobbies which are mounted on the stock alloy wheels. In addition to giving the bike a distinctive scrambler look, the tyres would also come in handy to tackle unpaved trails. Further enhancing the motorcycle’s off-road credentials is the chrome finished custom exhaust.

    The Bajaj Pulsar NS200’s original underbelly exhaust would not allow the motorcycle to be abused too much on an off-road trail, especially if crossing streams are involved but the custom bike seem to be adequately equipped to complete that task.
    The chassis, sub-frame, swing-arm, suspension system, clip-on handlebar and brakes have been retained without any modification. We don’t think the modifiers fiddled with the motorcycle’s engine and gearbox either. The Bajaj Pulsar NS200 is powered by a 199 cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, Triple-Spark engine which is tuned to produce 24.13 hp and 18.22 Nm of torque. Transmission is a 6-speed unit.
    In The Philippines, the Bajaj Pular NS200, known as the Kawasaki Rouser NS200, is priced at PHP 99,900 (around INR 1.51 lakh). More

  • Bajaj Chetak bookings closed as company struggles to meet demand

    Bookings for Bajaj Chetak are not expected to resume anytime soon
    The launch of Bajaj Chetak electric scooter was an important strategic move by the company. For starters, the product marked Bajaj Auto’s rentry into the burgeoning scooter market after a prolonged hiatus, and secondly, it also marked the brand’s foray into the promising world of electric two wheelers. However, things did not go as per plan, thanks to the pandemic.
    Bookings closed

    Launched in January, the Bajaj Chetak started with Pune and Bangalore as its initial markets. The plan was to expand the reach to other major cities in a phased manner but supply chain bottleneck and production halt due to the COVID pandemic appears to have hampered the Chetak’s short term prospects.
    Bookings had to be closed in March / April due to the pandemic and nationwide lockdown. In June once the unlock procedure started, Bajaj had restarted Chetak bookings. But now, in Sep – bookings have been closed again. According to the official website, bookings for Chetak are closed and we don’t expect it to be resumed anytime soon.
    Screenshot from Bajaj Chetak website.
    However, Bajaj is encouraging prospective customers to register their interest via a form in the official Chetak website so that they can be updated as and when the bookings resume.
    Production constraint
    Though majority of the components for the Bajaj Chetak is sourced within the country, a few critical components are being imported from China. The factory closures in the neighbouring country earlier this year and production halt in India due to lock-down has impacted the electric scooter’s production.
    The ongoing border tension between India and China may have also affected the components supply. If this situation prolongs, Bajaj will not only find it difficult to service the existing bookings but will have to abandon its expansion plans temporarily. Other EV makers in India are likely facing similar challenges that could lead to production constraints for a foreseeable future.
    Bajaj Chetak and its Husqvarna sibling
    Husqvarna Electric Scooter
    While the Bajaj Chetak is facing production constraints, Husqvarna, a part of Bajaj’s European subsidiary KTM, is working on a new 4 kW electric scooter based on the same platform. Called as the Husqvarna E-01, the premium scooter is expected to be manufactured alongside Chetak by Bajaj for global consumption. If the production operations continue to face bottlenecks, the E-01’s planned launch in 2021 may get pushed further by a few months.
    The Bajaj Chetak is powered by a 3.8 kW motor which derives its electricity from a 2.89 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Maximum range stands at 95 km. Feature highlights include LED headlight, digital instrument console, alloy wheels, front disc brake and smartphone connectivity. More

  • Bajaj Dominar 250 and 400 Prices Increased – New vs Old Price List

    This is the first time price has been hiked since the Dominar 250 was launch earlier this year
    Bajaj Dominar 250, a quarter liter sibling to its larger and more powerful Dominar 400, was launched in India earlier this year at Rs.1.60 lakhs, ex-sh. It is presented in a single variant and competes with the Suzuki Gixxer 250, Yamaha FZ25, KTM 250 Duke and Husqvarna 250 in a similar price segment.

    For the first time since launch, the company has hiked price of the Dominar 250. This hike is by Rs.4,090. New price is Rs.1.64 lakhs, ex-sh. Besides the hike in price, the Bajaj Dominar 250 sees no modifications and all specifications and features remain unchanged.
    The company has also just increased price of the Bajaj Dominar 400 by Rs.1,507 to a new pricing of Rs.1,96,258. The Dominar 400 was earlier priced at Rs.1,94,751 and this is the first price hike since the launch of its BS6 model in April 2020. Below are the new prices of Bajaj Dominar range, effective immediately across India.
    Dominar
    New
    Old
    Diff
    250
    1,64,090
    1,60,000
    4,090
    400
    1,96,258
    1,94,751
    1,507
    Bajaj Dominar 400 BS6 competes with the likes of Royal Enfield Himalayan, KTM 250 Duke and Suzuki Gixxer 250 – which are offered in a similar price bracket. Bajaj Dominar range is promoted as sports tourer, which offers comfortable riding position, powerful performance and latest in features.
    Bajaj Dominar 250
    The Bajaj Dominar 250 borrows features seen on the Dominar 400. Sporting similar dimensions, D250 measures 2,156 mm in length, 836 mm in width and 1,112 mm in height. Wheelbase and ground clearance stand at 1,453 mm and 157 mm respectively.
    Fuel tank is of 13 liter capacity while kerb weight stands at 180 kgs. The Bajaj Dominar 250 is presented in two colour options of Canyon Red and Vine Black. On board features include full LED headlamps, twin barrel exhaust and a fully digital instrument cluster which relays a wide range of information to the rider.
    Bajaj Dominar 250. Image – Bajaj Chavakkad
    The Dominar 250 share its engine with the 250cc Duke. This 248.77 cc, single cylinder, liquid cooled, DOHC, 4 valve engine produces 25 hp power at 8,500 rpm and 23.5 Nm torque at 6,500 rpm and comes in with Bajaj Auto’s Twin Spark technology. It receives fuel injection system that enhances throttle response, delivers better performance and higher fuel efficiency. The BS6 compliant engine gets mated to a 6 speed gearbox with slipper and assist clutch.
    The Bajaj Dominar 400, on the other hand, is powered by a 373 cc, single cylinder, liquid cooled engine making 39.4bhp power and 35 Nm torque. The engine is mated to a 6 speed gearbox with slipper clutch. Bajaj Dominar gets its suspension via USD forks in the front and monoshock at the rear. Braking duties are handled by a 300mm disc in front and 230mm disc at the rear with dual channel ABS offered as standard. More

  • Bajaj Aug 2020 Motorcycle Sales Grow – Pulsar, Dominar, Platina, CT100, Avenger

    Bajaj Auto total sales for August at 3.56 lakh units
    The two wheeler segment in India has finally started seeing some signs of a turnaround. The lockdown announced in March and dismal sales during the months of May to June, have seen some improvement in July and August as buyers are opting for more person means of transport.
    Bajaj Auto registers 9 percent sales decline YoY

    Bajaj Auto Limited has revealed their sales figures for August 2020. It may be seen that while Bajaj Auto could not match sales of August 2019, the company has shown a stronger recovery on a monthly basis, when compared with sales of July 2020. Bajaj Auto reported sales of 3,56,199 units in August 2020, down 9 percent when compared to total sales of 3,90,026 units sold in August 2019.
    Domestic sales in the past month stood at 1,78,220 units, an increase of 3 percent over 1,73,024 units sold in August 2019 but exports dipped 6 percent to 1,42,838 units in the past month from 1,52,276 units exported in the same month of the previous year. This took total two wheeler sales to 3,21,058 units in August 2020, down 1 percent when compared to 3,25,300 units sold in August 2019.
    Bajaj Auto Sales Aug 2020
    Sales of commercial vehicles fell hugely. Domestic sales dipped 78 percent to 7,659 units in the past month as against 35,085 units sold in August 2019. Exports, though reporting a de-growth, faired better than domestic sales. Sales fell by 7 percent to 27,482 units, down from 29,641 units exported in August 2019 thus taking total sales in the commercial vehicle segment to 35,141 units, down 46 percent as against 64,726 units sold in August 2019.
    Year to Date sales
    The month of April 2020 saw every two and four wheeler maker in India report zero sales. Sales inched ahead in the months of May and June and it was only from July that there was some semblance of improvement noted in terms of vehicle sales in the country. This caused quite a setback in terms of year to date sales for each manufacturer.
    Bajaj Auto Sales April to Aug 2020
    Bajaj Auto Limited was no exception. The company has reported a 48 percent dip in year to date sales. In the two wheeler segment, domestic and exports dipped 45 percent to 9,59,543 units during the April to August 2020 period. This figure had stood at 9,54,938 units in the same period of the previous year.
    Commercial vehicle sales (domestic and exports) also suffered de-growth of 67 percent to 95,591 units in the first five months of the financial year as compared to 2,88,593 units sold in the same period of 2019. This saw total two wheeler and commercial vehicle sales (domestic and exports) down 48 percent to 10,55,134 units in the April to August 2020 period as against 20,18,730 units sold in the same period of the previous year. More

  • Bajaj Discover modified into Cafe Racer for Rs 70k – All Metal Bodywork

    Jaipur-based Kunwar Customs’ handbuilt 135cc cafe racer is based on a 2013 Bajaj Discover 135
    Bajaj Auto discontinued the Discover range of commuter motorcycles ahead of BS6 emission norms. In the final BS4 era of its 16-year market run, the Bajaj Discover was available in two formats: 125 and 110.

    Previously, there were ‘100’, ‘135’ and ‘150’ models as well. However, tighter competition and lower demand eventually led to their discontinuation. Bajaj Auto’s Pulsar series have also played a part in reducing its desirability.
    Chances of the Chakan-based manufacturer reintroducing its Discover lineup in an upgraded BS6 format are not bleak. In the 125cc-135cc segment, Hero MotoCorp and Honda Motorcycle India are clearly the most dominant names. Meanwhile, KTM India has diversified this segment into sportier choices with the 125 Duke and RC125 siblings.
    Bajaj Discover 135 Cafe Racer
    The Bajaj Discover, let alone commuter motorcycles, may not be the best choice for customisations. Yet the trend of converting used or neglected small-capacity motorcycles into creative examples have been popular in the country for quite some time. It was only recently that we shared a ‘Bajaj CT100 Cafe’ build from Sunam, Punjab. Jaipur-based Kunwar Customs has made a similar approach with a 2013 Bajaj Discover 135. Here’s a walkaround video on it by automotive YouTube channel Throttle 98:

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    Kunwar Customs’ Bajaj Discover cafe racer build dates back to early 2019. The video suggests that it has seen a lot of kilometres as the custom body components have minor scratches and wear all across.
    Throttle 98 states that the customisation cost Rs 70,000 (arguably on the higher side) in addition to a donor motorcycle. Most panels were handbuilt while certain parts were borrowed from previous-gen Yamaha FZ and Bajaj Avenger models.
    Starting with the obvious, key highlights include cafe-racer handlebars (with USD bar-end mirrors), offset single-pod instrument console, single-seat configuration, pushed-back footpegs, round headlamp, (similar to Royal Enfield’s Continental GT 535), fabricated sidebox, new fuel tank, LED tail lamp, wider 5-spoke wheels, rear monoshock and a custom exhaust system. The motorcycle is finished in a metallic grey shade with a black racing stripe running through the centre. The brown seat creates an interesting contrast.

    Engine & Specs
    There are no major changes to the power plant. In its healthy stock format, the 134.21cc air-cooled DTS-i single-cylinder engine was tuned to produce almost 13bhp @ 8,500rpm and 11.88Nm @ 6,500rpm. This is mated to a 4-speed gearbox (one of the reasons why the motorcycle was less desirable). Ex-showroom prices stood at roughly Rs 61,000. More

  • Bajaj Sales Data, Export July 2020 – Pulsar, CT100, Avenger, Dominar

    In July 2020, Bajaj Auto sold 1,48,503 units (-10.33%) and 74,599 units (-49.44%) in domestic and export markets, respectively
    Chakan-based two-wheeler manufacturer Bajaj Auto, like most other major automaker operating in India, is making a gradual recovery from COVID-19 and the government’s initial lockdown protocols towards the end of March 2020. At the start of May, automotive facilities in ‘orange’ and ‘green’ COVID-19 zones were allowed to operate in controlled conditions such as effective sanitisation and social distancing policies.

    Meanwhile, major automakers across varied vehicle categories have opened ‘online showrooms’. The sales platforms offer more than just a page to book or buy a new vehicle. Notable highlights include finance options, virtual assistant, test drives (at customers’ residence), vehicle configurators and more. Online sales platforms do not affect the business of existing dealerships as the user would be redirected to the nearest (or preferred) physical outlet.
    In July 2020, Bajaj Auto hit almost 1,50,000 units on the domestic market while export markets received above 74,500 units in total. Here is the detailed sales breakup:
    Domestic sales in July 2020
    In July 2020, Bajaj Auto sold 1,48,503 units in July 2020 compared to 1,65,604 units back in July 2019. In other words, the company witnessed a decline of 10.33% which is still significantly better than the sales performance in June 2020.

    Bajaj Sales vs Exports July 2020 – As per Motorcycle brand
    Bajaj Pulsar topped the list at 73,836 units and went through a sales improvement of 18.20% compared to 11,367 units lesser in July 2019. Bajaj Platina hit 35,103 units but went down by 33.12%. The entry-level CT range followed at 33,774 units or almost 15% less than in the same month, a year before. Bajaj Avenger follows way behind at 3,702 units and a decline of -37.41%. Bajaj Dominar garnered 1,968 units in July 2020 as against 1,363 units back in July 2019.
    Finally comes Bajaj Chetak electric scooter which hit just 120 units (no previous data to compare with). The company had discontinued its Discover range of commuter motorcycles ahead of BS6 emission norms. It had hit 3,640 units last year.
    Exports in July 2020
    Coming to exports, Bajaj Auto shipped 74,599 units in July 2020 in comparison to 1,47,541 units the year before. This is a decline of 49.44% or 72,942 units.

    Bajaj Sales vs Exports July 2020 – As per Engine cc
    Bajaj Boxer came first at 49,418 units compared to 78,064 units in July 2019. Bajaj Pulsar hit 12,022 units and went through a decline of 62.71%. Bajaj Discover, still produced for exports, returned 9,220 units or 39.85% less than before. CT garnered only 1,867 units and faced a major fall of 88.18%. Bajaj Dominar, at an improvement of 39.33%, contributed 1,502 units in July 2020. Avenger and Platina hit 354 units and 216 units, respectively but at a varied fluctuation of +36.15% and -95.48%. More

  • New Bajaj Platina 100 ES Disc Arrives At Showroom – Deliveries Start

    Bajaj has launched top of the line Platina 100 variant with disc brake
    One of the bestselling Bajaj motorcycles, Platina 100 ES (electric start) disc variant has been launched at Rs 60,698. It gets 240 mm disc at the front, whereas rear tyres have 110 mm drum brakes with anti-skid braking system. In comparison, Platina 100 ES drum brake variant comes with a price tag of Rs 58,477. There’s Platina kick-start alloy variant as well, which is priced at Rs 50,464. All prices are ex-showroom, New Delhi.

    As may be recalled, Bajaj had introduced electric start in Platina in 2015. Most recently, the motorcycle was updated to comply with BS6 emission norms in May 2020. In its current form, Platina is one of the most fuel efficient motorcycles in the country. Claimed mileage is more than 90 km, which is one of the key reasons for the bike’s popularity. However, actual mileage could be around 70-80 kmpl.
    Built for comfort
    Bajaj Platina 100 ES sports an attractive look and feel, as evident in the sleek headlamp design and LED DRL. Colour options include black and red. However, the primary USP of the bike is its focus on providing enhanced comfort to users on long journeys. This has been achieved by equipping the bike with a range of features. Key among them is the first-in-class Nitrox suspension that improves ride comfort by around 15% in comparison to SnS suspension.

    Bajaj Platina BS6 price and variants. Ex-sh, Delhi
    The rear suspension is a 110 mm spring on spring (SoS) unit while the front has 135 mm telescopic suspension. Both front and rear suspension have long suspension travel, which ensures smoother rides when negotiating uneven roads and potholes. Other features that make the rides more comfortable on Platina 100 ES include long and soft seat, wide rubber footpads, and tank pads.
    To prove the added comfort available with Platina, the company had earlier conducted a comfort challenge across 550 towns, involving more than 45,800 participants. Users were asked to rate the ride quality of Platina as compared to rival product. According to Bajaj, more than 90% of participants had found Platina to be more comfortable.

    Bajaj Platina 100 ES disc launched
    Platina Engine
    Powering Platina 100 ES is a 102 cc, 4-stroke, DTS-i, single cylinder engine that churns out 7.9 ps of max power at 7500 rpm and 8.3 Nm of max torque at 5500 rpm. Engine is mated to a 4-speed gearbox. Internally tested top speed is 90 kmph.
    Launched in 2006, Bajaj Platina has remained a popular commuter motorcycle over the years. Platina has consistently featured in the top ten list of bestselling motorcycles in the country. It is currently the second bestselling Bajaj motorcycle, the top selling being the Pulsar range. Platina is also exported to several overseas markets. However, in exports, Platina trails behind other products such as Boxer, CT, Pulsar and Discover. More