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      Tyre Killer Speed Bump Fail – Wrong Side Drivers Have No Fear

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      Tyre Killer Speed Bump FailThe ones installed in Pune and Noida were removed soon and “tyre killer” speed breakers in Ahmedabad hardly workTraffic violations and virtually non-existent traffic discipline are plaguing all major cities in India. People usually resort to taking wrong roots to save time and fuel, not realizing that their lives are priceless. This puts them in grave danger of hurting themselves and putting other road-goers as well.Tyre killer speed bumps are a stunning idea to keep this activity in check. For all vehicles going in the right direction, this is just a regular speed breaker. But god forbid, if someone goes the wrong way, integrated spikes will penetrate tyres, making them unusable. But such speed bumps in Ahmedabad tell a different story altogether.Tyre Killer Speed BumpsWhat are tyre killer speed bumps?One has to understand how this system works. This type of speed breaker has integrated spikes in them. These spikes are spring-loaded and they contract when vehicles pass through them the right way. If someone stumbled on them from the wrong way or opposite direction, it will not contract and said spikes will stay put.These sturdy spikes should then pierce through tyres of said vehicles and render them useless. These spikes not just create a puncture that could be repaired. But looking at their size, could leave the tyre destroyed, once and for all. This should have created enough fear in civilians to not break traffic rules. Because tyres ain’t cheap.[embedded content]Pune was the first city to get these tyre killer speed breakers. Pune is a large city with a large repository of personal and commercial cars, motorcycles and other commercial vehicles. The first tyre killer speed breaker could be seen near Amanora.No damageSoon, Delhi-NCR jumped into this bandwagon with Noida implementing it at multiple locations at once. Ahmedabad followed too. This should have been an epitome of traffic rules enforcement in India. But instead, both Pune and Noida removed these breakers. The ones in Ahmedabad hardly work too.Tyre Killer Speed Bumps In Ahmedabad – Do they even work?As covered by News18 Gujarati, these speed breakers hardly work. When motorcycles, cars or trucks come from the opposite direction, the spikes in these speed breakers should stay put and cause damage to tyres. In reality, these spring-loaded spikes are retracting inside even when the vehicle is coming from the opposite direction.Close up of mechanismThis odd behavior has given road users the confidence that these “tyre killer” speed breakers don’t even bite, let alone kill. As seen in the video, we can see all sorts of vehicles going on these breakers like nothing and cross it with no damage. Even though this is a very good idea, there are a few drawbacks. If there is a newcomer to the city, who is not aware of these, he might potentially lose his tyres in the best case scenario. In the worst case scenario, there could be a fatal crash with casualties as well. More

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      TVS Jupiter ZX Drum SmartXonnect Variant Launched

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      TVS Jupiter ZX Drum SmartXonnect Starlight BlueEarlier, SmartXonnect connectivity suite was only available with Jupiter ZX Disc variant, now we get it with drum variant tooTVS Motor, one of India’s stalwart 2W and 3W vehicle manufacturers has added a new variant to its highest-seller. Of course, we’re talking about TVS Jupiter scooter which regularly features in highest-selling 2W vehicle list. Jupiter is second to only Honda Activa in terms of scooter sales.Now, TVS is fortifying its scooter lineup better challenge Activa. Now, Jupiter gets SmartXonnect Bluetooth-based connectivity suite with Drum brake version of ZX trim too, which was not the case before. Said TVS Jupiter ZX Drum SmartXonnect variant costs Rs. 84,468 (ex-sh, Delhi).TVS Jupiter ZX Drum SmartXonnect VariantThis move made Jupiter ZX Drum SmartXonnect variant, the most affordable Bluetooth equipped model in TVS’ lineup. Pricing for ZX Disc and ZX Disc SmartXonnect are still the same, which is Rs. 86,413 and Rs. 88,988 respectively (both prices ex-sh, Delhi). Classic is still the most expensive, at Rs. 89,648 (ex-sh).There are two vibrant colours that TVS is offering with this new variant. They are Starlight Blue and an exclusive Olive Gold colours. These new colours are visually pleasing and will enhance the overall appeal of this scooter.Olive GoldJupiter comes equipped with a fully digital instrument cluster that shows a host of information with the help of TVS’ proprietary SmartXonnect system. These connected features enhance rider’s experience in many ways. And allows them to fully immerse into the commute rather knowing that their scooter has got their back in keeping them up to date.Not just that, connectivity ensures enhanced safety as rider’s are aware of the important notifications they received on their phone rather than have to deal with their phone while on the go. Navigation ensures ease of commutes in navigating through city scapes without getting lost.Same mechanical package as beforeThe SmartXonnect suite includes Turn-By-Turn Navigation, Voice Assist, Call Alerts and SMS Alerts among more. TVS promises Jyada ka Fayda with Jupiter. So, the new TVS Jupiter ZX Drum SmartXonnect variant is no different. It packs a USB phone charger to add the missing piece of the puzzle.Mechanically, Jupiter is still the same ol’ Jupiter. Only the Classic trim gets the added goodies that lifts style quotient. TVS offers Jupiter in both 110cc and 125cc engine options and primarily competes with Honda Activa. The 110cc engine is capable of 7.77 bhp of power and 8.8 Nm of torque, while 125cc engine will kick out 8.05 bhp of power and 10.5 Nm of torque. More

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      Royal Enfield Bobber 350 Spied Again – Exhaust Note Thump-tastic

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      Royal Enfield Bobber 350Thump and Rumble: Classic 350 Bobber’s Roaring Symphony, Handlebar HijinksWith the exception of a taller handlebar, Royal Enfield Bobber 350 doesn’t get a lot of Bobber-name-worthy elements and attributes. Of all recent Royal Enfield test mule appearances, Himalayan 450, Roadster 450, Scram 650, and Shotgun 650 (rumoured names) are more frequent. Also, Bullet 350, Classic 650 and other test mules have made multiple appearances. But Classic 350 Bobber sightings are less frequent.Royal Enfield Classic 350 Bobber was previously spied in April 2023. This is the second time, test mule spyshots have surfaced online. In the video, we can even hear the sweet and soft thump of its beating heart as well.Spy Games: Classic 350 Bobber Spied in ActionBobber 350 is essentially a Classic 350 with slight modifications. If we think in that direction, all 350cc Royal Enfield motorcycles emerge from the same base vehicle. In previous sightings, test mules revealed a single-seat layout.In the recent spy video, we see a double-seat model. So, Royal Enfield is likely to offer both seating variants. Or rear seat could be optional. Hey, it is supposed to be a Bobber. It is extremely similar to Classic 350. Wheelbase is not extended like that of a Bobber and riding dynamics should remain the same.[embedded content]There are differences, though. Headlight is still the same 7” round unit. But it now gets LEDs from factory, similar to the 650s. Tail lights and indicators seem to be similar to Classic 350’s, with LEDs instead of halogen bulbs. Instrument cluster is similar to Classic 350 and gets a Tripper Screen too.In terms of primary aesthetic differences, Classic 350 Bobber gets White-walled tyres. Previous test mules had White-walled tyres with a teal tint to them at both front and rear, while new test mules have fully white walls. Only, front white wall is dirty. Rear grabrail is new too and chunkier than Classic 350’s.Same DNA, Different Swagger: Classic 350 BobberThere is a single-sided exhaust and is different from Classic 350’s. It gets a black finish along with engine bay. Exhaust note is starkly similar to other J-Series motorcycles in the company’s portfolio. Main differences lie with ergonomics as there is a new handlebar. This new handlebar is the only Bobber element in the whole bike.Exhaust and rear white-walled tyreThis new handlebar enables an upright and relaxed posture which should help in mile munching (or km munching). Suspension is still RSU telescopic at the front and twin shock absorber at the rear. There are single-disc brakes at either ends and Dual-Channel ABS will be standard. Engine will be the same 349cc with 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm, mated to a 5-speed gearbox. More

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      Honda 2W Sales July 2023 – Shrinking Domestic Sales and Exports

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      2023 Honda Activa 125 Smart Key VariantHonda two wheeler sales both in domestic and export markets fell considerably on a YoY basis but saw some improvement MoMHonda Motorcycle and Scooter India has been experiencing shrinking sales over the past months. Total sales (domestic + exports) in July 2023 fell 23.73 percent to 3,38,310 units, down from 4,43,543 units sold in July 2022. This was a volume de-growth of 1,05,233 units.Honda 2W Sales July 2023Honda 2W sales in domestic markets dipped 22.80 percent YoY to 3,10,867 units in July 2023. This was a 91,834 unit volume de-growth as compared to 4,02,701 units sold in July 2022. The domestic market currently commands a 91.89 percent share while exports hold an 8.11 percent share.Honda 2W Sales July 2023Exports also fell by 32.81 percent to 27,443 units in July 2023. This was against 40,842 units sold in July 2022 relating to a 13,399 unit volume de-growth. Taking MoM sales into account, Honda has experienced growth both in terms of domestic sales and exports.Total sales in the past month (domestic + exports) rose 4.39 percent MoM from 3,24,093 units sold in June 2023. There had been 3,02,756 units sold in domestic markets relating to a 2.68 percent MoM growth while exports improved by 28.62 percent over 21,337 units shipped in June 2023.New Product Launch and Network ExpansionThere is a new Honda motorcycle set to be unveiled on 2nd August 2023. This bike is in the 150-160cc segment and is likely to be called Honda SP160. It is being launched in the premium commuter range and prices are likely to start from Rs. 1.05-1.15 lakh (ex-showroom).On 31st July 2023, HMSI introduced the new Dio 125 priced at Rs 83,400. It also received the H-Smart tech variant with Rs 91,300 price tag. This TVS Ntorq 125 and Suzuki Access 125 rival comes in with attractive colour options and draws its power via the same engine that also powers Honda Activa 125 and Grazia 125.Honda is offering a 10-year warranty package, which includes three years of standard warranty along with extension of seven years on this new Dio 125 scooter. Bookings for this 125cc Dio scooter have already started with deliveries expected to commence soon across the country. In July 2023, HMSI also expanded its network presence to Bihar. The company inaugurated a new dealership in Purnia (Bihar) and a BigWing in Cuttack (Odisha). More

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      Hero MotoCorp sales in July 2023 – YoY, MoM, YTD de-growth

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      Hero Super SplendorIn July 2023, Hero MotoCorp and Harley-Davidson launched the X440 in India, their first co-developed premium motorcycleHero MotoCorp has posted a YoY de-growth in domestic while exports improved in July 2023. YTD sales also ended in the negative though scooter sales saw an 11.52 percent YoY growth. A series of new launches, the upcoming festive season and several financial schemes being offered by the company could spur up sales in the months ahead.Hero MotoCorp Sales July 2023Hero MotoCorp has reported total sales (domestic + exports) at 3,91,310 units in July 2023. This was a 12.18 percent YoY de-growth from 4,45,580 units sold in July 2022 relating to a 54,270 unit volume decline. The company has seen lower domestic sales brought down by a 14.41 percent dip in motorcycle sales which stood at 3,60,592 units in July 2023. This was 60,696 units lower when compared to 4,21,288 units sold in July 2022.Hero MotoCorp sales July 2023Motorcycles command a 92.15 percent share in the company portfolio. Scooter sales on the other hand improved by 26.45 percent to 30,718 units in July 2023 from 24,292 units sold in July 2022. Hero Pleasure +, Destini 125 Xtec and Xoom are the most popular scooters while the Maestro Edge 125 also commands a fair share of attention. This took total domestic sales down 13.81 percent YoY to 3,71,204 units in July 2023 from 4,30,684 units sold in July 2022. Exports on the other hand improved 34.98 percent YoY to 20,106 units from 14,896 units shipped in July 2022.On a MoM basis, Hero domestic sales fell by 12.19 percent from 4,22,757 units sold in June 2023. Motorcycle and scooter sales both suffered a MoM de-growth by 10.85 percent and 5.54 percent respectively. Exports however grew by 41.23 percent from 14,236 units shipped in June 2023. This took total MoM sales down 10.45 percent from 4,36,993 units sold in June 2023, a volume de-growth of 45,683 units.Hero MotoCorp YTD SalesTaking into account sales of Hero MotoCorp during the period April 2023 to July 2023, Motorcycle sales dipped 6.04 percent to 16,23,232 units in FY24 period as compared to 17,27,582 units sold in the same period of the previous year. Scooter sales improved by 11.52 percent to 1,20,652 units in FY24 from 1,08,191 units sold in FY23.Total domestic sales thus dipped 4 percent to 16,88,454 units in FY24 from 17,58,850 units sold in FY23. Exports also fell by 27.94 percent to 55,430 units in FY24 from 76,923 units sold in FY2023 taking total YTD sales down 5.01 percent to 17,43,884 units in the FY24 period from 18,35,773 units sold in the same 4 month period of the previous year.Hero MotoCorp has commenced production of the new Harley-Davidson X440 from its Garden Factory plant in Neemrana, Rajasthan and deliveries are set to commence from October 2023. Harley-Davidson X440 is being offered in three variants of Denim, Vivid and S priced at Rs 2,29,000, Rs 2,49,000 and Rs 2,69,000 respectively. In July, Hero MotoCorp discontinued the Xtreme 200S 2V from its company portfolio and introduced the more powerful Hero Xtreme 200S 4V priced at Rs 1.41 lakh (ex-sh). More

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      Suzuki July 2023 Sales Soiree: Hitting the Century Mark

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      Suzuki Access 125Suzuki July 2023 Sales Zoom Past Expectations – Riding High at over 1 lakh units soldIn July 2023, Suzuki’s two-wheeler sales witnessed remarkable growth both domestically and in the international market. Total sales of 1,07,836 units marked a substantial increase of 41.46 percent compared to July 2022. This is a most robust performance. For SMIPL, domestic sales captured a dominant 74.47 percent share of its total sales.Domestic sales of Suzuki two-wheelers surged to 80,309 units, indicating an impressive year-on-year growth of 31.89 percent. This substantial increase can be attributed to several factors, including effective marketing strategies, and favourable customer sentiments for their offerings. The company’s efforts in building a strong brand image and expanding its dealer network have paid off. There has been continued demand growth for their products in the domestic market.Suzuki 2W sales July 2023Market Mastery: July 2023’s Unstoppable ForceExport sales also experienced significant growth. Suzuki shipped out 27,527 units in July 2023. This marks an impressive 79.47 percent increase compared to the same month in the previous year. Focus on exploring international markets, targeting regions with high demand for two-wheelers, and offering competitive pricing have been vital. And helped secure a considerable contribution of 25.53 percent from Suzuki’s export segment.Comparing sales data between July 2023 and June 2023, Suzuki saw month-on-month growth of 33.56 percent. Total sales increased by 27,099 units. This demonstrates the brand’s ability to sustain momentum and retain customer interest. Growth in both domestic and export sales indicates a consistent and well-executed business strategy that resonates with consumers across different regions.Wheels of Fortune: July 2023 SalesAnalysing the market share in June 2023, Suzuki enjoyed a 78.10 percent share from the domestic market. With steady sales growth, the auto manufacturer has been solidifying its position. MoM growth in the export market stood at 55.71 percent indicating potential for further expansion in the international arena.The data reflects a promising trajectory for Suzuki’s two-wheeler sales, demonstrating their ability to adapt to changing market dynamics and capitalise on emerging opportunities. The impressive year-on-year and month-on-month growth rates signal a positive outlook for the brand’s future, provided they maintain their focus on innovation, product quality, and customer-centric strategies.A Neat Feat: Suzuki July 2023 Sales at over 100KKenichi Umeda, Managing Director, Suzuki Motorcycle India said, “We are elated to have crossed 100K monthly sales mark in July. It is a testament to our commitment to our customers and their continued trust in the brand.These strong sales numbers reflect robust demand for our scooters and motorcycles in India and in the overseas markets. We express our sincere gratitude to our customers, dealer partners and our staff members who played a crucial role in achieving 100K monthly sales milestone.” More

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      Harley-Davidson X440 Gets 1st Price Hike – New Prices Of All Variants

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      Harley-Davidson X440 Price HikeAfter the introductory price ends tomorrow, 3rd August, Harley-Davidson X440 price will go up by Rs. 10,500 (ex-sh)Hero MotoCorp and Harley-Davidson partnership has launched the first product X440 in India at an attractive introductory price of Rs. 2.29 lakh for base Denim trim, Rs. 2.49 lakh for mid-spec Vivid and Rs. 2.69 lakh for top-spec S trim (all prices ex-sh). Introductory prices will last till August 3rd, tomorrow. Post that, there will be an increase in price.Harley-Davidson X440 Price HikeFollowing an overwhelming response for their maiden product, X440, the company is intending to hike the prices by Rs. 10,500 (ex-sh). This price hike is across the trims. In effect, Harley-Davidson X440 price starts from Rs. 2.4 lakh for base Denim trim, Rs. 2.6 lakh for mid-spec Vivid and Rs. 2.8 lakh for top-spec S trim (all prices ex-sh).Harley-Davidson X440 deliveries commenceAfter the booking portal closes tomorrow, Harley-Davidson India will arrange test rides for customers who have booked the bike, starting from September 1st. Production will commence in September at the company’s Garden Factory in Neemrana, Rajasthan. Deliveries will commence in October 2023.Prospective buyers can book their Harley-Davidson X440 at introductory prices and avoid the price hike by placing an order by 3rd August, 2023. Also, there is no clarity as to when Harley-Davidson will commence a second booking portal as production hasn’t started and response seems to be on the higher side. The company has expressed that the scale of production will depend on response and demand. If there is demand, then there will be an escalation in production capacity.The best Roadster in its segment?Harley-Davidson is betting big on the emotional quotient that is associated with a legacy brand like itself. That said, Royal Enfield and Triumph work with a similar ethos as well. Triumph’s Speed 400 is likely to beat X440 in sales. Not only Speed 400 costs significantly less than X440, it is also delivering a better value for money proposition.Triumph offers more tech, more sophisticated engine architecture and more performance. Harley-Davidson X440 comes equipped with a single-cylinder 440cc engine capable of developing 27 bhp of power and 38 Nm of torque. A 6-speed gearbox is standard and Harley-Davidson promises a full metallic build like Royal Enfield. More

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      Royal Enfield Sales July 2023 – Classic, Hunter, Meteor, Bullet

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      Royal Enfield Meteor 350Royal Enfield has posted a sharp 42 percent growth in domestic sales while exports dipped 22 percent YoY in July 2023Royal Enfield has reported a 31.61 percent YoY growth in sales in July 2023. Total sales (domestic + exports) stood at 73,117 units in the past month, up from 55,555 units sold in July 2022. This was a 17,562 unit volume growth.Royal Enfield has a premium lineup of bikes both in the sub 350cc and above 350cc segments. These include the Hunter 350, Classic 350, Meteor 350 cruiser and the Bullet 350. There is also the Super Meteor 650, Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650 in the company lineup along with the Himalayan and Scram 411 ADV. The company also gears up for launch of the new-gen Bullet 350 and Himalayan 450.RE YoY Sales July 2023Royal Enfield sales saw the 350cc segment saw a 5.42 percent YoY de-growth. Sales dipped to 8,719 units in July 2023, down 500 units when compared to 9,219 units sold in July 2022 to claim an 11.92 percent share. Exports also fell significantly by 21.84 percent YoY to 7,055 units in July 2023 from 9,026 units shipped in July 2022 relating to a volume de-growth of 1,971 units. Exports share currently stands at 9.65 percent.On a month on month basis (MoM), Royal Enfield has seen total (domestic + exports) sales fall 5.18 percent as sales had stood at 77,109 units in June 2023. 350cc segment bikes MoM sales declined by 6.21%. MoM sales of the 350cc+ bikes increased by 3.24 percent. While there had been 8,445 units sold in June 2023, sales increased to 8,719 units in July 2023.Royal Enfield sales July 2023This took total domestic sales down 2.12 percent on a MoM basis from 67,495 units sold in June 2023. Exports also suffered a de-growth of 26.62 percent from 9,614 units shipped in June 2023 relating to a dip in volumes by 2,559 units.Royal Enfield has seen sales of its Hunter 350cc cross the 2 lakh unit mark. This is particularly noteworthy as this milestone has been crossed in under 12 months of launch. Hunter 350 was launched in August 2022 and achieved its first milestone of 1 lakh units in February 2023, 6 months after launch. The next 1 lakh units have been completed in 5 months.Upcoming launchesThere are 13+ Royal Enfield models set to be launched in the coming years, out of which the Bullet 350 will launch on 30th August 2023. Recently RE released a teaser of new Bullet’s exhaust note. Apart from feature updates, the Bullet 350 will also receive a new engine that currently powers the Classic 350, Hunter 350 and Meteor 350. More