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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

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      Updated 2024 Kawasaki W175 Could Launch At India Bike Week

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      2024 Kawasaki W175Kawasaki W175 will target a niche customer base instead of directly rivalling larger 300-400cc retro motorcyclesIf we consider the retro motorcycle segment, quite a few options start from 300cc. Some popular names include Royal Enfield Classic 350 and Meteor 350, recently launched Honda CB350, Jawa, Yezdi and Benelli Imperiale 400. Customers looking for a smaller capacity classic motorcycle would have to look at updated 2024 Kawasaki W175 to be launched at India Bike Week 2023.2024 Kawasaki W175 – Expected changesAs part of the 2024 update, Kawasaki W175 gets a few cosmetic updates. These updates have been teased by Kawasaki on a mysterious veiled motorcycle. New reports suggest that these updates revolve around 2024 Kawasaki W175 that will launch in India on 10th anniversary of India Bike Week held at Vagator, Goa on 8th December, 2023.As part of the update, we can see an alloy wheel with sporty pinstripes that replace the old wire-spoke unit of current model. We can expect tubeless tyres with alloy wheels, which is an added benefit over tube-type tyres. Kawasaki might offer new colours as well. W175 is locally manufactured in India and doesn’t enjoy a lot of popularity. Revised pricing should help 2024 Kawasaki W175’s cause. Currently, it costs between Rs. 1.47 lakh and Rs. 1.49 lakh (ex-sh).Available in Asian markets such as Indonesia and Thailand, Kawasaki W175 has a simple, yet elegant design. Round headlamp with chrome wrap, round ORVMs, fork gaiters, teardrop-shaped fuel tank and turn indicators, single-piece seat and broad rear fenders. Handlebars are ergonomically placed and footpegs are just below the front seat. These features should ensure comfortable rides for most users.Current Kawasaki W175Design and specsPowering W175 is a 177 cc, air-cooled motor capable of generating 13 ps of max power at 7500 rpm and 13.2 Nm of peak torque at 6000 rpm. It is mated to a 5-speed transmission. Power and torque output could be slightly different for BS6 version of this engine.Suspension system comprises 30mm telescopic front forks and swingarm dual shock absorbers with adjustable spring preload at the rear. Braking duties are performed by 220mm disc at the front and 110 mm drum brake at rear. Another thing that can work to W175’s advantage is its handling.The bike weighs 135 kg, which is much lighter than larger capacity retro-themed motorcycles. W175 can be expected to perform with greater agility in city traffic conditions. It could make daily commuting a lot more fun and comfortable. Folks looking to try something new or a smaller-capacity retro motorcycle could go for Kawasaki W175.However, considering the limited number of Kawasaki dealerships in the country, it will be challenging to unlock W175’s full potential. This bike can generate sales in smaller towns and cities. But currently Kawasaki dealerships are largely available only in prominent cities. It remains to be seen if Kawasaki has some special plans to make W175 available at more locations across the country.Source More

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      Honda CB350, CB350RS Brake Light, Bank Angle Sensor Recall

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      File photo of CB350 at service. Image – Abhinav Bhatt.Honda will be providing free replacement of affected parts, irrespective of the bike’s warranty statusFor H’ness CB350 and CB350RS motorcycle users, Honda has announced a recall for issues related to the brake light and bank angle sensor. The recall is applicable on CB350 and CB350RS units manufactured within a specific timeframe. Repair and replacement work will commence from the second week of December. It will be carried out at BigWing dealerships.Honda CB350, CB350RS rear stop light switch recallThe rear stop light switch issue impacts CB350 and CB350RS units manufactured between the period October 2020 and January 2023. It has been noted that the issue is due to the rubber parts used in the rear stop light switch. It is linked to an improper manufacturing process being used for making the rubber parts. Due to the defect, the rubber parts become weak and develop cracks. This can lead to entry of water and moisture, resulting in corrosion inside the switch. Depending on the level of corrosion, the switch can start to malfunction.Honda CB350, CB350RS bank angle sensor recallThe bank angle sensor issue has been linked to improper sealing and subsequent entry of water into the sensor. It has been found that gaps were created in the sensor body sealing due to inappropriate moulding procedure. When water enters the sensor housing, it can lead to malfunction. In worst cases, the vehicle may stall unexpectedly. The bank angle sensor recall applies to CB350 and CB350RS units manufactured between October 2020 to December 2021.Honda’s recall for CB350 and CB350RS involving rear stop light switch and bank angle sensor has been issued as a precautionary measure. It is part of Honda’s endeavour to work proactively in the interest of its customers. The recall will ensure a hassle-free experience and help build trust and confidence among the customers.Inspection and replacement of the rear stop light switch and bank angle sensor will be done at Honda BigWing dealerships. The entire process will take around an hour’s time. It will be done free of cost, irrespective of whether the bike’s warranty is active or not. CB350 and CB350RS owners can visit Honda’s recall page to know if their bikes are covered under the recall. This can be done using the bike’s VIN number. Honda has requested users to take prior appointment for getting the faulty parts replaced.Second recall for CB350This is the second time a recall has been issued for Honda CB350. The earlier recall was in March 2021, around six months after the bike’s launch in October 2020. The earlier recall was linked to a defective transmission component. Units of CB350 manufactured between November 25th and December 12th 2020 were impacted by the issue. The defect was caused due to the use of a wrong grade of material during production. The problem was fixed free of cost for all affected units of CB350. More

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      Aprilia RS457 Price To Be Announced At India Bike Week

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      Aprilia RS457 PriceWith local manufacturing of RS 457 at its Baramati plant, Aprilia will be able to avoid high costs associated with CBU / CKD routeMulti-cylinder motorcycles in 300cc to 500cc segment are gaining traction and OEMs are lining their products to cater this new-found demand. Aprilia is among those OEMs, launching RS 457 at the 10th Anniversary of India Bike Week, scheduled to happen between 8th and 9th of December, 2023 at Vagator, Goa.Aprilia RS457 Price To Be Announced At India Bike WeekJust like various other OEMs, Aprilia is looking at India as a retail market as well as a manufacturing hub for exports. Domestic buyers will benefit, as they will be able to access Aprilia products at relatively lower rates. A relevant example is upcoming RS 457, which will be launched at India Bike Week between 8th and 9th December, 2023.Prices of Aprilia RS 457 were recently announced for international markets such as USA and Canada. Aprilia’s Diego Arioli – head of product marketing, motorcycles, Piaggio Group, has provided an approximate price range for RS 457 in India. He said that they are looking at a price of around Rs 3.75 lakh to Rs 4 lakh.In comparison, price in the USA is USD 6,799 (approx. Rs 5.65 lakh) for Opalescent Light and Prismatic Dark colours and USD 6,899 (approx. Rs 5.75 lakh) for Racing Stripes colourway. Canada looks relatively affordable, with prices at CAD 7,799 (approx. Rs. 4.7 lakh) and CAD 7,999 (approx. Rs. 4.84 lakh), respectively.Aprilia RS 457 ProfileThe bike certainly commands ambitious pricing, as it packs an aluminium chassis, a parallel-twin motor and a comprehensive range of electronic gizmos.Additional cost overheads for RS 457As RS 457 is an advanced racing machine, Aprilia has to invest resources in expanding dealer network and training their staff. This will be an additional cost for the company. In the future, more premium Motoplex showrooms will be opened across large cities. This will be helpful for Aprilia’s other big bikes as well.Made in India RS 457 will be sold across Europe and other markets. It will be largely the same across most international markets. As of now, India is the only production base for RS 457. The company can consider CKD opportunities at a later date for exports. Aprilia has manufacturing presence in Indonesia, Vietnam and three plants in Italy.Aprilia RS 457 at 2023 EICMAAprilia RS 457 has a 457cc, parallel-twin motor that generates 47 bhp of max power. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. Torque output and other key details such as top speed and time taken to reach 0 to 60 kmph are yet to be revealed.Weighing just 170 kg, Aprilia RS 457 has the best power to weight ratio in its class. It will compete with the likes of Kawasaki Ninja 400, KTM RC 390 and upcoming Yamaha R3. With a price range between Rs 3.75 lakh to Rs 4 lakh, Aprilia RS 457 will be cheaper than Ninja 400. Yamaha R3 is expected to be priced at around Rs 4 lakh. R3 will initially be a CBU import from Indonesia. KTM RC 390 will be the most affordable in the group, priced at Rs 3.18 lakh. More