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      Bajaj New Commuter Bike Spotted – Could Be CT150X

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      New Bajaj commuter motorcycle spiedA 150cc commuter can make every day rides a lot more exciting and also do some heavy lifting across difficult terrainBajaj is known to pull up surprises. At a time when the focus is on the biggest Pulsar ever, an entirely new test mule has been spotted. Hat tip to Rushlane Spylane member for sharing this exclusive spy shot. It is possible that Bajaj could be working on a 150cc commuter bike. It could be launched as CT150X.Bajaj new commuter bike – What to expect?The usual set of commuter bikes are largely pooled in 100cc to 125cc segment. At 150cc and above, the majority of bikes are positioned as performance-oriented machines. In this space, Bajaj already has Pulsar 150 and Pulsar N150. These are among the bestselling Pulsar bikes in the country. With the new 150cc commuter bike, Bajaj can provide something more relevant for the specific target market.New Bajaj commuter motorcycle spiedSpotted with heavy camouflage, the test mule wants to keep things under wraps as far as possible. However, a closer inspection does provide some hints about how the final version will look like. Some of the features that are evident include round headlamp, standard commuter-style handlebar with brace, heavy-duty front forks, a single piece seat and a standard grab rail. The bike also has an engine crash guard, rear tyre hugger and saree guard with integrated footrest. Just like CT125X, the new 150cc commuter is likely to have fork gaiters.As evident, there are enough similarities to link the test mule to a 150cc commuter bike under CT brand. Bajaj may also be looking to boost the CT range that hasn’t been doing all that great in comparison to Pulsar and Platina range. CT bikes have significantly fewer numbers than Pulsar and Platina, across both domestic and international markets. A new 150cc CT bike can probably bring about positive changes.Bajaj CT150X performanceIt is possible that Bajaj CT150X could get a tweaked version of the existing 149.50 cc engine in use with Pulsar 150. Power and torque output could be adjusted in favour of fuel efficiency. On-board Pulsar 150, the engine delivers 14 PS of max power and 13.25 Nm of peak torque. In comparison, Pulsar N150 has slightly higher numbers at 14.5 PS and 13.5 Nm. Both models have a constant mesh 5-speed gearbox.The engine being used with the test mule can be seen with fins. It indicates that this is an air-cooled engine. The bike comes with new alloy wheels. It has disc brake at front, which appears to be similar to that of CT125X. Other highlights include rugged foot pegs and hand guards.A 150cc commuter bike seems to have potential, as there aren’t many players in this space. Bajaj CT150X could especially do well across smaller cities and rural markets. The usual set of 100cc to 125cc bikes are quite popular, but they can reach their limits when subjected to heavy work. With more power and torque, a 150cc commuter bike will be appropriate for the specific needs of such markets. More

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      Bajaj Pulsar P125 Spotted Testing Without Camouflage For The First Time

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      New Bajaj Pulsar P125 spottedThe upcoming Bajaj Pulsar P125 will sport the same design and componentry as the now discontinued Pulsar P150, with Pulsar 125’s powertrainLeading Indian 2W and 3W manufacturer, Bajaj Auto, is on the verge of expanding its 125cc Pulsar portfolio. Current 125cc Pulsar lineup includes OG Pulsar 125 and Pulsar NS125. The latest entrant to this highly competitive segment is Bajaj Pulsar P150. Launch must be nearing as the test mules donned zero camouflage.Bajaj Pulsar P125 spotted testing – Does it make sense?In a rather surprising move, Bajaj replaced Pulsar P150 with Pulsar N150. We say surprising because Bajaj is known to hold on to its motorcycle designs and Pulsar P range debuted in November 2022. For context, design of OG Pulsar is around 15 years old. But what happens to all the dyes, jigs and manufacturing equipment dedicated to making body parts for discontinued Pulsar P150?This is where the new Pulsar test mule comes into play. Bajaj seems to be shifting Pulsar P range from 150cc to 125cc class. Lacklustre sales registered by Pulsar P150 seem to be a primary reason for its discontinuation. 150cc Pulsar buyers sought some beef and brawn that P150 never could never bring to the table.Hence the introduction of Pulsar N150. Now Pulsar P range will re-spawn in 125cc category which makes a lot of sense for Bajaj. We say this because it is 125cc Pulsars, attracting highest footfall in showrooms and they seem to have highest conversion rates as well.Pulsar P125 – Same design as P150Sales charts reflect the same with 125cc Pulsar being Bajaj’s best-seller with 35% of the company’s total sales in September 2023. Launch is likely to happen soon and it will be positioned between OG Pulsar 125 and Pulsar NS125. Price of around Rs. 90,000 (ex-sh) would be logical too.What does the new Pulsar P125 pack?First set of spy shots reveals an overall similar silhouette to Pulsar P150. This test mule shows zero camouflage on it. We would wager that none of the body panels and components from Pulsar P range will be altered.Sleek and slender body, attractive LED headlight assembly with a large projector and a unibrow-type LED DRL signature, extended tank shrouds, clip-on handlebars, an engine cowl, single-piece seat, a conventional grab handle, a semi-digital instrument cluster, a USB port and twin-LED tail lights are some of the highlights.As per componentry, upcoming Bajaj Pulsar P125 will come equipped with RSU telescopic front forks, single disc setup at the front with single-channel ABS, rear drum brake, conventional box-section swingarm, similar 17-inch alloy wheels as P150 and the same 124cc single-cylinder engine.Speaking of engine, it will develop around 11 bhp of peak power and 11 Nm of peak torque, mated to a 5-speed gearbox. Fuel efficiency is likely to be around 50 km/l. Primary rivals are TVS Raider 125, Honda SP 125 and Hero’s Glamour XTEC and rumoured Xtreme 125, along with Bajaj’s own OG Pulsar 125 and Pulsar NS125. More

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      Hero Xoom 125R And Xoom 160 – TVC Reveals Real-World Capabilities

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      New Hero XOOM 160With new-gen products like Xoom125R and Xoom 160, Hero MotoCorp can grab a larger share in scooter segmentWhile it dominates the entry-level motorcycle segment, Hero MotoCorp hasn’t been able to achieve similar results in scooter segment. But the company continues to be on the offensive by launching new products and features at regular intervals. As part of that plan, Hero will soon launch the Xoom 125R and Xoom 160 scooters.Hero Xoom 125R, Xoom 160 detailed in TVCHero Xoom 125R will primarily take on TVS Ntorq. The scooter has a distinctive profile and not a copy of Xoom 110cc. It is probably being positioned as the sportiest scooter in 125cc segment. To make it work, an entirely new design format has been used. Some of the key features include a majestic, multi-layered front fascia, full-width headlamp, eye-catchy handlebar cowl, wide shoulders, muscular side panels and sporty upswept exhaust.With 14-inch wheels, the scooter has a tall profile and can easily tackle rough road conditions. Its aerodynamic design will allow riders to breeze through urban streets. Seats are wide and comfy and there’s ample space in the floorboard area. For folks looking to add some style to their daily commutes, Hero Xoom 125R seems to be an appropriate option.Talking about Xoom 160, it will be Hero’s new flagship when launched. The maxi scooter is designed as a versatile machine that’s good for urban streets as well as some mild off-road explorations beyond city limits. Some of the key highlights include a signature front beak, dual headlamp setup, large windscreen, sharp body panelling and upswept exhaust. There’s a dedicated rear rack for a top box. With its aggressive design, Hero has chosen to call it a ‘SUV of 2-wheelers’. Xoom 160 will primarily rival the likes of Yamaha Aerox 155 and Aprilia SXR 160.Xoom 125R and Xoom 160 specs, performanceHero Xoom 125R will be using a slightly detuned version of the 125cc engine in use with Maestro Edge 125 and Destini 125. Onboard the Xoom 125R, the air cooled, single-cylinder engine churns out 9.37 bhp of max power and 10.14 Nm of peak torque. Xoom 160 has a 156cc liquid cooled engine. It is different from the engine currently in use with Hero Xtreme 160R 4V. Power and torque numbers of the new engine are yet to be revealed. The scooter will have i3S and ABS.Both Xoom 125R and Xoom 160 will have digital instrumentation. A range of connectivity features will be available via Hero Connect App. It will include geofencing, live tracking, remote immobilization, battery removal alert, location sharing, accident and topple alert, speed alert and SOS alert (panic button). Other possibilities include vehicle diagnostics, roadside assistance, booking a service and trip analysis.In addition to the domestic market, Xoom 125R and Xoom 160 will also be introduced across overseas locations. Hero has stepped up focus on exports, which is expected to get a boost with truly global products like Xoom 125R and Xoom 160. Launch in India is expected in the first or second quarter of CY2024. More

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      Aprilia RS 457 Pricing Announced For USA, Canada – Details Here!

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      Aprilia RS 457 pricing announcedWith its sporty styling and racy performance, new Aprilia RS 457 comes across as a perfect machine for enthusiastsAprilia has added a new member to its racing squad in the form of RS 457. The bike has a brawny profile and comes in sporty colour options. It has Aprilia’s racing DNA, a great starting point for enthusiasts and the new generation of bikers. Aprilia has announced pricing for markets like USA and Canada. Let’s take a look.Aprilia RS 457 pricing revealed – Attractive proposition?There is no denying that Aprilia RS 457 is an achingly pretty motorcycle. So much so, that even hard-core loyalists of rival brands will appreciate the absolute beauty of the bike’s appearance. Aprilia RS 457 can be a serious threat to the likes of Kawasaki Ninja 400, KTM RC 390 and upcoming Yamaha R3.The pricing that Aprilia has announced, is rather reasonable. In USA, Opalescent Light and Prismatic Dark colours cost USD 6,799 (approx Rs. 5.65 lakh) and Racing Stripes colourway costs USD 6,899 (approx Rs. 5.75 lakh). Canadians, however, have to pay CAD 7,799 (approx Rs. 4.7 lakh) and CAD 7,999 (approx Rs. 4.84 lakh) for the same colours.Considering Aprilia RS 457 is manufactured here in India at Piaggio’s facility at Baramati, Indian pricing should be much lower than these. Some of the key highlights include full LED front headlight, integrated turn signals, sweptback windscreen, sculpted fuel tank, layered fairing, underbelly exhaust and step-up seat. The bike has versatile ergonomics, which can be adapted for both racing environments and everyday needs.Aprilia RS 457 designWithin 300cc to 500cc motorcycles, the choices are quite diverse. It’s products like Aprilia RS 457 that draw enthusiasts to sports bike segment. RS range has always been Aprilia’s strength. For example, the larger sibling RS 660 is the bestselling sports bike in Europe. New RS 457 has potential to achieve something similar, as it will be accessible to a broader segment of users. In Europe, the bike meets the requirements for A2 license.Attractive design – Key to buyer’s heart?While the bike is all muscle, it still manages to look quite affable. The designers have ensured that RS 457 does not have any unnecessary attitude or aggression. This one is not to intimidate. But to draw one closer and take it for a spin. The smooth curves, aerodynamic fairing and compact proportions have helped achieve a well-rounded profile for the bike.Powering Aprilia RS 457 is a modern, liquid-cooled, twin-cylinder engine. It is equipped with a dual overhead camshaft setup and has four valves per cylinder. The engine can generate 48 hp of max power. Performance will be even better than the numbers indicate, as the bike has a lightweight profile. Dry weight is 159 kg, which ensures a higher power-to-weight ratio. This will be difficult to beat by rival offerings.Aprilia RS 457 profileTo support the powerful engine, the bike gets a rigorous chassis built from aluminium. It’s the same set of materials that Aprilia has been using for its race-winning bikes. Just like the RS 660, the new RS 457 utilizes the engine block as a stressed element. Other key highlights of Aprilia Rs 457 include 17-inch sports rims with 110/70 and 150/60 tyres at front and rear, respectively. Suspension system comprises 41mm forks at front and a mono-shock unit at rear.Braking duties are performed by single 320 mm and 220 mm discs at front and rear. Dual-channel ABS is standard. The bike has ride-by-wire tech and comes with riding modes. A quickshifter is also available as an option for those who need it. More

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      Ather Electric Scooter To Get Transparent Side Panels – But Why?

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      Ather electric scooter with transparent panelWhile the earlier iteration had a translucent effect, the side panels will be truly transparent this timeIt may not appeal to everyone, but the transparent effect does help a number of products to stand out. This design approach has been used for various products such as watches, computers, cassette players, gaming controllers, smartphones, etc. In case of Ather, the transparent effect was used with the Collector’s edition Ather 450X Series 1 electric scooter.Ather to bring back transparent panelCo-founder and CEO of Ather Energy Tushar Mehta has confirmed that the transparent panel will make a comeback. However, an exact launch date has not been provided. Tushar has also stated that the panels will be truly transparent this time. They will be different from the translucent units seen with Series 1 limited edition electric scooter.Ather electric scooter with transparent panelBack in 2020, the Collector’s edition Ather 450X Series 1 electric scooter was launched as a means to express gratitude to early adopters of 450X. A sizeable number of users had pre-ordered 450X, even when not much details were available about the scooter. In effect, these early adopters had played a key role in establishing Ather as a strong EV brand. To celebrate their contributions, Ather had launched the special edition Series 1 electric scooter with translucent side panels.It’s time again for another special edition, as the company is getting ready to celebrate its 10th anniversary. The transparent side panels are likely to be used with the special edition. The limited-edition model will be based on 450X Gen 3 electric scooter. Apart from the transparent side panels, the special edition model is expected to get other updates. A new colour theme is likely, complemented with sporty graphics and decals. It remains to be seen if the scooter gets any additional features or performance boost.Ather electric scooter with transparent panel – More powerful CPUTransparent panels – A visual extravaganzaWhen the Series 1 was launched in 2020, Ather had said that it was the first production scooter to get the near-transparent panels. It did have a nice visual impact, as one was able to see the internals such as the distinctive skeletal trellis frame. However, Ather is going completely transparent with the upcoming 2023 special edition. It reveals each and everything, which may not necessarily be all that attractive.An image of the transparent panel shared by Tushar Mehta shows the wires, clips, bolts, holes and slots, the battery casing and frame. The big picture looks quite chaotic, although there can be a sizeable number of fans who may appreciate this bold design format. A transparent watch or smartphone is different, as components are militarized and seamlessly interconnected.In the production version, Ather will probably have to play with some colouring effects on the internal components that are visible through the transparent panel. Designers will have a better idea about how to create the best visual impact with the transparent side panels. It surely doesn’t look all that great in its current form. The translucent panels used with Series 1 were far better. More

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      Yamaha R3 And MT-03 Launch In Dec – Dealers Shortlist Initiated

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      Yamaha R3 and MT-03Yamaha R3 and MT-03 are set to launch in India by the end of this year with models arriving dealers by mid-December 2023In April 2023, Yamaha showcased a few multi-cylinder motorcycles to various dealers across India. The showcase included fully-faired bikes R3 and R7 along with naked MT-03, MT-07 and MT-09. As confirmed by CEO, first ones to be launched in India are R3 and MT-03, followed by others in the future. Blue Square dealers are on the verge of being prepped for the launch to provide a seamless experience for buyers.Yamaha R3 and MT-03 inching towards India launchYamaha enthusiasts will surely be delighted to try out the big bikes. As of now, Yamaha’s India portfolio has a 150cc product as its flagship. That will change soon as our dealer sources have confirmed Yamaha’s internal notification, revealing crucial info regarding the motorcycle’s launch and a few behind-the-scenes processes.For starters, Yamaha will sell R3 and MT-03 only through its 200 Blue Square premium dealerships across the nation. These Blue Square dealerships offer customers much more than just a buying experience by being a one-stop solution to dive into Yamaha’s Call Of The Blue’ campaign and providing access to Yamaha’s Blue Streaks rider community.As seen in the circulatory passed by Yamaha Motor India, the company intends to provide a certain experience to their premium customers. In that light, we can see all the rigorous requirements Yamaha poses to their Blue Square dealers in order to get eligibility for R3 and MT-03 sales and aftersales. The sophistication of this new 321cc platform is evident as Yamaha is mandating dealers for more experienced and better-qualified manpower.Yamaha R3 and MT-03 dealer eligibility criteriaIf a Blue Square dealer meets all the minimal setup requirements, their name will be finalised for R3 and MT-03 model supplies. Yamaha will finalise the dealer list for R3 and MT-03 sales by 30th November 2023. Interested dealers can get eligibility on a later date too by meeting eligibility requirements. Hence the dealer list will be updated on 15th of every month. Supply of models to dealerships will commence by mid December 2023.Specs and featuresStarting with R3 and MT-03 seems like a good move, as this segment can generate the best possible sales numbers. Bigger capacity R7, MT-07 and MT-09 may also emerge as popular options when launched in the future. As of now, the best-selling 500cc+ segment motorcycle is Royal Enfield’s 650 platform with 90% market share in October 2023.Yamaha’s decision to bring its multi-cylinder bikes to India is a long pending demand from enthusiasts. Powering Yamaha R3 and MT-03 is a 321cc, twin-cylinder engine that churns out 42 PS of max power. Torque output is 29.5 Nm for R3 and 29.6 Nm with MT-03. The bikes are equipped with a comprehensive range of advanced features. Some key highlights include full-LED lighting, USD forks, full LCD meter and dual-channel ABS.Seat height is 780 mm, which should ensure optimal balance and handling. Ground clearance of 160 mm seems adequate for a variety of our famed roads. The bikes have 17-inch wheels at both ends, shod with 140/70 rear and 110/70 front tyres. Going by Yamaha’s pricing history, R3 and MT-03 may command a premium in pricing.Back when on sale, R3 rivalled KTM RC 390, Benelli 302R and Kawasaki Ninja 300. Now, it has to lock horns with Aprilia RS 457, updated KTM RC 390 with 399cc engine and Kawasaki Ninja 400. While MT-03 has a unique proposition of being the only multi-cylinder 300cc-400cc naked bike. But rivalry with updated KTM’s 390 Duke is evident. More

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      2024 Honda ADV 160 Gets New Colours – Future Hero Xoom 160 Rival?

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      2024 Honda ADV 160 DebutedNow that Hero is launching a 160cc ADV-styled scooter to rival Yamaha Aerox 155, 2024 Honda ADV 160 makes perfect sense for IndiaIn international markets, Honda has been upgrading its 150cc scooters to 160cc versions. Same holds true with ADV 160 as well, upgraded from ADV 150 earlier this year. The scooter now entered MY2024 with a brand new colour, taking the total number of colourways to four.Should Honda bring in ADV 160 to rival Hero Xoom 160?Now that Hero has showcased Xoom 160 ADV style maxi scooter, we hope Honda launches 2024 ADV 160 in India too. ADV 160 gets an aggressive front fascia with sleek headlamps and vertically mounted LED DRLs. There’s a large transparent windscreen mounted on the front apron, which is functionally relevant and also enhances the bike’s sporty profile.Other key features include fancy rear view mirrors, a stepped single-piece seat, an upswept exhaust and a long tail section. With 2024 Honda ADV 160, there aren’t any design changes. Features like the sporty X-shaped taillamp, rectangular digital instrument console and other elements have been kept the same.This LCD instrument screen displays a range of information such as time and date, speedometer, real-time fuel consumption and air temperature. A separate panel for indicators has been provided below the digital console for easy viewability. The overall profile of scooter radiates immenseness that commands a lot of road presence.2024 Honda ADV 160 ColoursThis is a non-step-through scooter, hindering practicality. However, it houses scooter’s large 8.1L fuel tank, liberating large 27L under-seat storage. Other features carried forward include Honda Smart Key system, front inner box with 2L capacity, smartphone charging socket and emergency stop signal.With 2024 Honda AD 160, the company has introduced the new Pearl Bosphorus Blue. Other colours on offer with MY2024 are Matte Dahlia Red Metallic, Pearl Smoky Gray and Matte Gunpowder Black Metallic. This new 2024 model will go on sale in Japan on 14th December 2023 for an asking price of JPY 473,000 (including tax) which translates to Rs. 2.6 lakh.2024 Honda ADV 160 specsPowering Honda ADV 160 will be a liquid-cooled 4V 156cc motor. Output numbers are around 16 PS and 15 Nm. Honda ADV 160 will have eSP (enhanced smart power) tech ensuring optimal performance across varied environments. eSP system comprises various components such as ACG Starter and programmed fuel injection.Idling stop system will be available with 2024 Honda ADV 160, which boosts fuel efficiency. The scooter will have double cradle frame with telescopic front forks and gas-charged twin rear suspension. True to its ADV profile, the scooter will have block pattern tyres. Both wheels will have disc brakes with single-channel ABS.Now that Hero is launching India’s second sporty maxi-scooter in the form of Xoom 160, the time is ripe for Honda to bring in ADV 160 in India. Both will rival Yamaha’s Aerox 155 which currently enjoys quite a niche. Considering Hero’s pricing exercises, it will have a much better VFM proposition, though. More

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      2024 Vespa Scooter Range Debuted – New Primavera, Sprint S Updated

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      2024 Vespa Scooter Range Updated2024 Vespa scooter range including Primavera and Sprint S range have been upgraded to Euro5+ standards; along with a variety of new features.At the 2023 EICMA, Vespa has unveiled various products such as Aprilia RS 457, Moto Guzzi Stelvio, New Moto Guzzi V85 range and Piaggio High-Wheel Range and Piaggio 1. Also part of the show are the updated Primavera and Sprint S scooter range. The new features are applicable to both ICE and electric variants. ICE variants continue to be available with 50cc, 125cc and 150cc engine options.2024 Vespa scooter range – Primavera and Sprint SOne of the notable aspects of updated Vespa Primavera and Sprint S range is that these scooters are fully compliant with Euro5+ emission norms. In addition, the scooters come with cosmetic touch-ups, new colour options and tech upgrades. Updates that are common to both Primavera and Sprint S include a new format for the handlebar and new grips for improved control and comfort.Side profile reveals a new design for the wheels. Primavera gets five spoke units, whereas Sprint S has exclusive six spoke wheels. Depending on the scooter’s exterior colour and graphics used, the wheel rims get a matching treatment. This enhances the scooter’s sporty profile and presents a livelier persona.Vespa Primavera is available in five colour options and there’s liberal use of chrome highlights. In comparison, Sprint S has new graphics as well as black highlights. The overall styling varies based on the colour option chosen by the user.2024 Vespa Primavera SOther updates common to both scooters include a semi-digital instrument console. It includes a 3-inch LCD screen. However, some variants are equipped with an exclusive 5-inch TFT screen. It includes the Primavera Tech 125, 150 ICE variants and the Primavera Elettrica scooter. The TFT unit has Bluetooth connectivity. It can be paired with the user’s smartphone (via Vespa MIA app) to access a range of features such as calls, music and turn-by-turn navigation.There are some updates that are exclusive to a particular variant. For example, Primavera Tech will now be available with keyless entry. Primavera range also gets new seats and cover, along with a new crest for the mudguard.No performance boostExcept for the emission compliance, much of the core mechanicals remain the same for updated Vespa Primavera and Sprint S scooter range. The 50cc variants have a 49cc, 3-valve, single-cylinder engine that generates 3 hp of peak power and 2.9 Nm of max torque. This scooter is perfectly suited for zippy rides across city streets.2024 Vespa Sprint SThe 125cc variants have a 124cc motor, generating 11 hp and 10.4 Nm. The 150cc variants have a 155cc engine that makes 12.34 hp and 12.4 Nm. All variants come with CVT automatic gearbox. Electric variants are categorized as per top speed, with 25 km/h, 45 km/h and 70 km/h options. All variants are equipped with a 4.2 kWh battery pack. More