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      Kawasaki W175 Street Launched For Rs. 1.35 Lakh – Features Added, Price Slashed

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      Kawasaki W175 Street LaunchedThe new prices for Kawasaki W175 Street has been reduced by Rs. 12,000 at Rs. 1.35 lakh (ex-sh), which is introductory for a limited periodThe surge in classic bikes has hit an all-time high, in Indian automotive sector. However, this soaring demand for classic bikes is seen in the 350cc segment where Honda, Yezdi and Jawa are Royal Enfield. But lower down, Kawasaki intends to make a mark in classic bike space by launching Street version of W175 with revised pricing and added features.Kawasaki W175 Street Launched For Rs. 1.35 LakhPrices for Kawasaki W175 Street start from Rs. 1.35 lakh (ex-sh). This is Rs. 12,000 more affordable than standard W175 that was on sale till now. The Japanese brand has mentioned that the Rs. 1.35 lakh (ex-sh) price is introductory and will be subject to increment. Kawasaki didn’t mention duration of introductory offer and the standard rates after that.There are two new colours – Candy Emerald Green and Metallic Moondust Grey. Kawasaki is offering alloy wheels on W175 Street and since these are alloys, tubeless tyres make their way into W175 as well for the first time, adding a ton of convenience. Other than these, there are no feature additions or any changes to standard kit.Tyre size is the same too – 80/100-17 front and 100-90-17 rear. On closer inspection with spec sheets, there seems to be slight variations with seat height, ground clearance and wheelbase when compared to current model.[embedded content]The new colours add a dramatic effect with the black alloy wheels. With Metallic Moondust Grey, Kawasaki is adding pin stripes to ally wheels, something that Candy Emerald Green lacks. But Candy Emerald Green is likely to be the highest-selling colour as Green is Kawasaki’s signature shade and it is the only colour that has ‘KAWASAKI’ branding on fuel tank.Specs and powertrainsKawasaki brand name is the decisive factor in W175 Street’s buying decision. Other than Candy Emerald Gree, other shades from standard W175 and W175 Street have ‘W’ branding on fuel tank. Other design highlights include extensive blackened elements and retro elements that radiate timeless charm.Kawasaki W175 Street is still powered by the same 177cc single-cylinder air cooled engine that produces 13 bhp of peak power and 13.3 Nm of peak torque. The 5-speed gearbox is standard and resr of the componentry consisting RSU telescopic front forks, twin shock-absorber rear suspension, front disc brake and rear drum, along with conventional features list.Kawasaki W175 Street Alloy WheelsSpeaking of features list, there is a small LCD screen in its circular instrument cluster for trip meters and the likes. Analog speedo, halogen lighting all around, circular headlights and ORVMs speak of its retro charm. The primary highlights for Kawasaki W175 Street is its weight. Or the lack thereof. Because the figure is just 135 kg. If I was looking for a motorcycle to gift my father or uncles, this would be it. More

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      2025 KTM 390 Adventure Spotted In Production-Spec Guise – New Himalayan Rival

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      2025 KTM 390 AdventureRoyal Enfield New Himalayan is the natural enemy of upcoming 2025 KTM 390 Adventure that may go on sale in 2024 or early 2025The boom in lifestyle ADV motorcycles is currently on the rise. This popularity is very strong even with single-cylinder range 300cc to 500cc segment. We recently saw Royal Enfield launching the new Himalayan. KTM seems to have sharpened its testing of Himalayan’s arch rival, 2025 KTM 390 Adventure with more off-road worthy hardware this time around.2025 KTM 390 Adventure Spotted TestingCurrent gen 390 Adventure is among the popular ADVs in India. It is more of a high-riding adventure tourer, than an off-roader. KTM recently gave it a few off-road bits like wire-spoke wheels (19-inch front and 17-inch rear). This added the off-road capability of this touring machine. However, 2025 KTM 390 Adventure looks as if it is built from the ground-up, to go off-road.We can see minimal body panels too, that reduce visual bulk from current 390 Adventure significantly. Overall motorcycle looks a lot more meaner and purpose-built than a sophisticated-looking current gen model. This is thanks to KTM’s 450 Rally inspired design language.We can see KTM’s new design language transformed slightly to fit into ADV genre. The fascia has a strong presence, accentuated by twin projector headlight setup, flanked by inverted horse shoe shaped LED DRLs. here is an aerodynamically optimised windscreen, that may feature adjustability too. There are beefy knuckle guards that add to overall appeal.2025 KTM 390 Adventure Production GuiseThere is a large beak up front, which is a characteristic of an off-road motorcycle. Seat height looks accommodating and offers riders a commanding upright stance. Footpeg positioning should aid standing and riding as well. Chiseled fuel tank looks like it offers enough grip to hold on to the motorcycle.Componentry and powertrainsThe main frame looks like it is lifted straight off 390 Duke. However, there may be certain tweak to suit off-road character. Rear subframe seems to be new and the test mule spotted abroad has a single-seat setup. Tail section has been kept minimal and purposeful as well, with twin pod LED tail lights and split grab rail.USD telescopic front forks are from WP. Rebound and compression adjustability along with long suspension travel are expected from this setup. Rear suspension is taken care of an off-set mono-shock setup that may feature rebound and preload adjustability. Swingarm is unique and looks sturdier than the one seen with recently launched 390 Duke.Tail section with under-belly exhaustExhaust setup is identical to that of 390 Duke, which is an under-belly setup. This could have been an up-swept unit to enhance water wading capability. KTM seems to be offering 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wire-spoke wheels. Instrument cluster seems to be the same TFT unit from 390 Duke, but positioned more appropriately for an ADV.Powertrain-wise, we can expect the same 399cc liquid-cooled DOHC 4V engine, mated to a 6-speed gearbox. This engine will have a different tune than 390 Duke, making around 45 bhp and 40 Nm. 2025 KTM 390 Adventure will be manufactured by Bajaj in India and launch might happen in 2024. This recent test mule looks production-ready, as opposed to unfinished previous prototypes. We expect a 390 Enduro model, also spotted testing.Source More

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      Honda Activa Electric Debut Likely Next Month – Launch in H1 2024

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      Image for illustration purpose.Activa electric will be based on the existing platform and come with a fixed battery setupAlthough late in the two-wheeler EV race, Honda is getting ready to shake up things with multiple new launches. For Indian market, Honda’s first offering will be an electric version of its top selling Activa scooter. Active electric is expected to make its global debut at upcoming Customer Electronic Show (CES). The event is scheduled to be held in Las Vegas, USA, from 9th to 12th January 2024.Activa electric – What to expect?Honda has been working on Activa electric for a long time. It appears that the project has been delayed. In 2020, Honda had even dismissed talks about the launch of Activa electric. Primary constraints pointed out by Honda at that time included the battery pricing and lack of adequate charging infrastructure. As things have evolved significantly over the last three years, Honda is getting ready to launch Activa electric.Honda Activa Electric Scooter TeasedAt 2024 CES, Honda will be showcasing a range of new products including its EV series models meant for global markets. Some of Honda’s newest technologies and innovations will also be showcased. Activa electric will be one of the key products to be showcased at the event. It is likely to be unveiled as a concept. Activa electric will play a key role in achieving Honda’s electrification goals. The company has plans to achieve 100% electrification via EV and FCEV vehicles by 2040.Activa electric will be getting a fixed-battery setup. It will have a top speed of around 50 kmph. Honda will focus on range, instead of prioritizing things like speed and performance. A fixed battery setup could be a disappointment for folks living in multi-storey apartments that don’t have charging infrastructure. But not for long, as Honda will introduce its second electric scooter, soon after launching Activa electric.The second electric scooter will be a high-performance e-scooter and come with swappable battery setup. It will be based on a born-electric platform. In comparison, Activa electric will use a tweaked version of the existing platform in use with ICE Activa.Activa electric India launchPost its global debut, Activa electric could be made available in India by the first half of 2024. Activa is currently the top selling scooter in the country. It makes sense to use the same brand name to power the electric version. India is likely to be the first country to get Activa electric. Honda will also be actively targeting export markets.Talking about competition, the electric two-wheeler segment already seems crowded in India. However, the majority of the sales is contributed by the top 4-5 brands. Bestselling startups in this space include Ola Electric, Ather Electric and Greaves Electric. Established players include TVS Motor, Bajaj Auto and Hero MotoCorp. Activa electric will take on rivals such as Ola S1, TVS iQube, Bajaj Chetak and Ather 450X. More

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      Aprilia RS 457 Launch Price Rs 4.1 L – Bookings Open From 15th Dec

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      Aprilia RS 457 launched in India. Image – apriliaridersclubbengaluruAprilia RS 457 will rival the likes of KTM RC 390, Kawasaki Ninja 400 and upcoming Yamaha R3With eyes on the 300cc to 500cc multicylinder bike segment, Aprilia has launched the RS 457 at India Bike Week. As the bike will be manufactured locally at the company’s facility in Baramati, Aprilia has been able to achieve a competitive price point of Rs 4.1 lakh. In comparison, the larger sibling RS 660 is imported and is priced much higher.Aprilia RS 457 – Key featuresWith its sporty profile, Aprilia RS 457 will target the new generation of bikers and racing enthusiasts. Some of the key highlights include sleek LED headlight with integrated turn signals, compact windscreen, sculpted fuel tank, dynamic fairing with sporty graphics, underbelly exhaust and short tail section. The bike has low-seat height, pulled-back clip-on handlebars and rear-set footpegs. The bike’s design promises exhilarating rides across standard roads as well as in a track environment.Aprilia RS 457 pricing announcedUsers can choose from three colour variants, each having a distinctive set of graphics and decals. The wheels are orange coloured or are blacked-out depending on the variant. For users who prefer a more personalized look and feel, Aprilia will be offering a range of accessories for RS 457.It includes seat cover, coloured transmission chain, high windscreen, tank bag, wheel stickers, etc. Functional accessories will also be available such as adjustable brake and clutch lever, helmet lock, side panniers, electronic antitheft and bidirectional quickshifter.Aprilia RS 457 launched in India.Aprilia RS 457 specs, performancePowering Aprilia RS 457 is a 457cc, parallel-twin, liquid cooled engine. It generates 47.6 hp of max power and 43.5 Nm of peak torque. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. The bike utilizes a dual beam aluminium frame, which has helped achieve a lightweight profile of 159 kg (dry weight). It helps improve the bike’s power-to-weight ratio. Seat height is 800 mm, whereas fuel tank capacity is 13 litres. The bike has 41 mm USD forks at front with 120 mm of travel. At rear, the monoshock suspension has 130 mm of travel.Aprilia RS 457 launched in IndiaAprilia RS 457 has 17-inch aluminium alloy wheels. These have also contributed to reducing the bike’s weight. The wheels are shod with 110/70 and 150/60 tyres at front and rear, respectively. The combo ensures exceptional grip without compromising on the bike’s agile characteristics. Braking duties are performed by 320 mm floating disc ByBre 4-piston radial callipers at front and 220 mm disc ByBre 2-piston callipers at rear. Dual-channel ABS with anti roll-over system is standard.Tech integrations include a 5-inch colour TFT display, backlit handlebar controls, three riding modes and traction control. The instrument console can be paired with the user’s smartphone via Bluetooth. It can be used to access a range of features including ride analytics and turn-by-turn navigation.To boost sales, Aprilia is in the process of expanding its dealer network across the country. RS 457 will also be exported to multiple global markets. As of now, RS 457 is being manufactured only in India. More

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      2W Retail Sales November 2023 – Hero, Honda, TVS, Bajaj, Royal Enfield

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      Hero Karizma XMR 2102W retail sales November 2023 grew 21.08 percent YoY and 49.05 percent MoMThe 2W retail sales November 2023, as announced by Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA), for November 2023 saw a total of 22,47,366 units sold. This was a growth of 21.08 percent when compared to 18,56,108 units sold in November 2022. It was also a staggering MoM growth of 49.05 percent as against 15,07,756 units sold in October 2023, the month in which the segment recorded lower sales despite it being a festive month.2W Retail Sales November 2023Positive 2W sales of 22.47 units were seen surpassing previous highest recorded in March 2020 when sales had stood at 20.7 lakh units. Every two wheeler maker on this list has seen outstanding YoY growth in November 2023 except Piaggio and Classic Legends.Hero MotoCorp topped the list with 8,02,234 units sold in the past month, up from 6,37,534 units sold in November 2022 to command a 35.70 percent market share. It was also a significant growth over 4,17,750 units sold in October 2023 marking a near 50% MoM growth.At No. 2 was Honda with 5,12,865 units sold last month, up from 4,63,145 units sold in November 2023. Market share, however, dipped to 22.82 percent from 24.95 percent YoY. Honda has just launched the new Honda CB350, a retro-styled motorcycle in two variants – DLX and DLX PRO. It will take on the Royal Enfield Classic 350 in its segment.2W Retail Sales November 2023TVS Motor retail sales also improved to 3,65,295 units in the past month, up from 2,71,925 units sold in November 2022. It was also significant MoM growth from 2,51,435 units sold in October 2023.YoY growth in retail sales was also seen by Bajaj Auto Group with 2,74,181 units sold in the last month, up from 2,11,391 units sold in November 2022. Bajaj Auto is now testing the new Pulsar P125 which has been recently spied with fresh feature and engine updates. Once launched, it will rival TVS Raider 125, Honda SP 125 and Hero’s Glamour XTEC.Suzuki, Royal Enfield, YamahaThere was also Suzuki Motorcycle India at No. 5 with 82,443 units sold in November 2023 with a 3.67 percent market share. It was above 72,466 units sold in November 2022. Suzuki also reported a MoM growth from 79,782 units sold in October 2023.Royal Enfield retail sales also grew to 81,319 units in November 2023 to command a 3.62 percent market share, up from 70,139 units sold in November 2022 when market share had been at 3.78 percent. The company has introduced the new Reown outlet for sales, purchase and exchange of pre-owned RE bikes.With 63,781 unit sales in November 2023, India Yamaha Motors reported YoY growth from 70,139 units sold in November 2022 while MoM sales also grew from 55,289 units sold in October 2023.Electric 2W Retail Sales November 2023In the electric two wheeler segment, it was Ola Electric that saw the most retail sales at 29,808 units in the past month. This was over 16,385 units sold in November 2022. Ola Electric has introduced special discounts through December 2023 with ‘December to Remember’ bringing the S1 X+ down by Rs 20,000. With this discount, the S1 X+ which was originally priced at Rs 1,09,999 is currently being offered at Rs 89,999 (ex-showroom).Ather retail sales were up at 9,171 units last month from 7,839 units sold in November 2022 while Greaves Electric has seen outstanding sales growth to 4,411 units in November 2023 from 189 units sold in November 2022.Sales of Piaggio (3,423 units) and Classic Legends (3,166) dipped on a YoY basis. There had been 3,711 units and 3,727 units sold by these two wheeler makers in November 2022. Other two-wheeler OEMs on this list have reported a drastic dip in retail sales down to 15,269 units in November 2023 from 43,863 units sold in November 2022. More

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      EVolutionary Strategy – Hero MotoCorp and Ather Energy

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      Ather Electric ScooterPublic Charging Infrastructure Evolution – Interoperable and FastProgressive collaboration between Hero MotoCorp and Ather Energy is set to expand EV public charging infrastructure across 100 cities. And could be a transformative moment for the Indian electric vehicle (EV) industry. This dynamic partnership aims to accommodate EV owners. And addresses concerns related to quick and convenient charging. Possibly almost anywhere.LECCS Breakthrough: Hero and Ather’s ConnectorThe collaboration’s centrepiece is the development of Light Electric Combined Charging System (LECCS). A system that has received approval from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). This modern grid integrates AC and DC combined charging connectors.Hero Vida V1 Pro Global DebutAt the heart of this collaboration is the plan to establish 1900 fast-charging points strategically. A widespread network that focuses on delivering a qualitative charging experience. Ather and My VIDA apps, designed with user-centric interfaces, provide EV users with info as needed. These apps play a pivotal role in helping users navigate to charging stations.The Scale of India’s EV Charging EcosystemAccessibility to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) adopting the LECCS standard, contribute to unifying the charging infrastructure. It not only fosters collaboration but also delivers convenience to EV users. LECCS is tenacious in its contribution to the expansion of public charging infrastructure. And looks set to grow as an agile response to the growing demands of the EV market.Overall exponential growth in charging infrastructure through the efforts of many OEMs and private players is not just a numerical milestone. It represents a progression chart in the evolution of EV infrastructure in India.Hero and Ather’s 1900-Point EV Power PlayThe selection of 100 cities for LECCS expansion is not arbitrary but a deliberate and strategic choice. And targets collaborative commitment to creating a comprehensive and accessible charging network. One that caters to expected growth in EV adoption.As India takes small steps towards an electric future, the Hero MotoCorp and Ather Energy partnership stands as a beacon of progress. A harmonious and unifying effort towards establishing the largest EV charging ecosystem. The collaboration is not merely a confluence; but one that aims to find a seat at the top. More

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      Benelli BKX 300 Debuts – New ADV Bike, Launch In 2024

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      Benelli BKX 300 DebutsA lightweight, versatile machine, Benelli BKX 300 promises fun rides across off-road tracks as well as asphalt roadsFor budding enthusiasts, Benelli has unveiled an all-new BKX 300 adventure bike. It is primarily targeted at the younger generation of riders who have a greater propensity to move freely and explore new routes. Benelli BKX 300 will go on sale in China in 2024. It will also be available in multiple European markets.Benelli BKX 300 Debuts – Key featuresBenelli BKX 300 has a striking profile that instantly gets one’s attention. The bike has been designed at Benelli Style Centre in Pesaro, Italy. Overall styling is a fusion of conventional ADV signatures and progressive, futuristic design elements.Some of the key highlights include an aggressive front fascia, sharp headlamp with DRLs, large side panels, hand guards, sculpted fuel tank, rally-style seat and under seat exhaust. A dual-tone colour theme of white and fluorescent yellow brings more dynamism to the bike.Benelli has also introduced a road variant named BKX 300 S. It is based on the same platform, but has a distinct profile. BKX 300 S is more agile and lightweight, as it gets minimal bodywork. Both bikes are equipped with an LCD instrument display.Benelli BKX 300 ProfileBenelli BKX 300 specs, performancePowering Benelli BKX 300 is a brand new 292.4 cc, liquid cooled, four-stroke single-cylinder engine. It generates 29.2 PS of max power and 24.5 Nm of peak torque. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. The new 292.4 cc engine is an evolved version of the existing 250cc engine in use with Benelli bikes such as TRK 251 and Leoncino 250.A number of tweaks have been performed in the engine architecture, covering parts such as intake and exhaust valves, combustion chamber and transmission components. The counter balance shaft has been redesigned in order to increase reliability and reduce vibrations. An entirely new exhaust system has been used, focused on achieving a desirable torque curve.Benelli BKX 300 comes with a slipper clutch for smoother gear shifts. The bike utilizes a Trellis frame, integrated with 41mm USD forks at front, offering 180 mm of travel. At rear, the bike has a swingarm and mono-shock suspension with 180 mm of travel. The bike uses 19-inch and 17-inch wheels at front and rear, respectively.Benelli BKX 300These are shod with 100/90 and 140/80 tyres. Braking duties are performed by 280 mm and 240 mm discs at front and rear, respectively. Dual-channel ABS is offered as standard. Benelli BKX 300 weighs 165 kg and has ground clearance of 220 mm.Will Benelli BKX 300 launch in India?The bike complies with Euro 5+ emission norms, which makes it India-ready. Whether or not it is launched here remains to be seen. Demand for entry-level ADVs is on the rise in India. Benelli BKX 300 can be a good option, especially if made available at an affordable price point. If launched here, Benelli BKX 300 will take on rivals such as Himalayan 411, Yezdi Adventure and BMW G310GS. More

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      Royal Enfield ‘Reown’ Launched – Company’s Pre-Owned Motorcycle Initiative

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      Royal Enfield Reown Program LaunchedReown offers a wide range pre-owned Royal Enfield motorcycles, allows for exchange and also facilitates sale of Royal Enfield modelsRoyal Enfield has launched a one-stop solution for customers to sell, purchase and exchange pre-owned Royal Enfield motorcycles. Reown outlets will be spread across cities of Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore and Chennai and offer buyers a completely hassle-free experience with the guarantee of fair price, easy transfers and complete documentation.Royal Enfield Launches ‘Reown’ ProgramBuyers and biking aficionados in India, who find the cost of a brand-new Royal Enfield bike beyond their economic limits can take advantage of these Reown outlets to pick up a pre-owned bike at a fraction of the cost.The love for a Royal Enfield motorcycle grows among the riding fraternity in the country. Purchasing such a bike that currently starts at Rs 1.93-2.25 lakh (ex-showroom) for the Royal Enfield Classic 350 and goes up to Rs 3.19-3.45 lakh (ex-showroom) for the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 could be a difficult proposition.To aid this, the company has introduced Reown which gives access to buyers of pre-owned motorcycles. The outlets are backed by trust, convenience and assurance and are a one-stop solution for a wide range of pre-owned Royal Enfield motorcycles.Bikes on Reown undergo 200+ technical and mechanical checksCustomers have access to both in-store and online services. They can sell or exchange their existing Royal Enfield bike and will be assisted through the process by a relationship manager for a hassle-free selling or exchange experience. Customers wishing to sell their bikes will have to fill up a form, to book an inspection.Each pre-owned bike undergoes a series of 200+ technical and mechanical checks and defective parts are replaced by genuine parts at Royal Enfield service centers. On purchasing a pre-owned motorcycle, the buyers are offered brand warranty and 2 free services while sellers can avail loyalty benefits of Rs 5,000 on genuine motorcycle accessories on their next purchase of a new Royal Enfield motorcycle.To ensure this sale, exchange and upgrade with ease, Royal Enfield has also entered into a partnership with HDFC and IDFC to offer buyers attractive finance options. Adroit Auto is offering its services for doorstep evaluation of motorcycles while Shriram Group will enable buyers to upgrade from other two-wheeler brands to Royal Enfield models.In related news, Royal Enfield has commenced deliveries of the Himalayan 450 in India. It is priced at Rs. 2.69 lakh (ex-showroom) for base Kaza Brown shade, while the top-of-the-line Hanle Black colour carries a price tag of Rs. 2.84 lakh (ex-showroom). In October, the company updated the RE Meteor 350 with new features and colour options and a brand new Aurora trim level has been added. More