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    TVS Apache RTX name trademarked – New rival to KTM 390 ADV?

    TVS Apache RTX 310 RenderThe 313cc-based TVS Apache RTX ADV motorcycle is likely to launch first – Followed by a 200cc ADV motorcycle in the futureIndia is a vast country and has varied biodiversity, ecosystems and terrains. This has led to a rise in a new crop of adventure motorcycles to feed one’s wanderlust. In mainstream motorcycle market, ADVs (real and pseudo) like Hero XPulse, Honda CB200X, Royal Enfield Himalayan and Scram, Suzuki V-Strom SX 250, BMW G 310 GS, KTM Adventure range, Yezdi Adventure and more.TVS never had any ADVs (real or pseudo) and that is likely to change soon. The company has trademarked the TVS Apache RTX name in India. The X letter is highly probable to be an adventure or crossover-type motorcycle that will soon grace the Indian market. Will it be a 200cc or 310cc? Our sources have revealed quite some revelations about this motorcycle. Let’s take a look.TVS Apache RTX Name TrademarkedThe homegrown Indian automaker is fond of its Apache moniker. So much so, there are multiple variations of it, for multiple body styles. In this sense, Apache RTR name stands for its street naked motorcycle range, Apache RR name stands for its faired motorcycle range. So, it is only logical to assume TVS Apache RTX name should stand for its ADV range.When we say TVS don’t have any ADVs, we mean to say that TVS doesn’t sell them with its name. The partnership between TVS and BMW has facilitated TVS to manufacture a 313cc ADV motorcycle for BMW. That said, this partnership between TVS and BMW seems to be slightly one-sided in the favour of the latter.TVS Apache RTX name trademarkedAs BMW procured three motorcycles (G 310 R, G 310 RR, G 310 GS) based on this 313cc platform, while TVS managed just one (Apache RR 310). Sources tell us that TVS is on the verge of launching its 313cc-based ADV and naked motorcycles soon.Minimal design changes with their BMW counterparts are highly likely. Most probably, TVS’ versions will just be re-branding exercise like it was with BMW G 310 RR, which was pound to pound, an Apache RR 310, without SmartXonnect Bluetooth (for Rs. 28,000 extra).The same 310cc engine in a similar state of tuneWhen launched, TVS Apache RTX 310 will get the same 313cc single-cylinder engine (33.52 bhp, 28 Nm, 6MT) as BMW G 310 GS and will feature similar componentry as well. Further down the line, TVS might incorporate a 200cc-based Apache RTX motorcycle as well, to rival Hero Xpulse 200 4V.2023 TVS Apache 310 Street renderWhen we first got this scoop, our rendering artist Pratyush Rout penned down his vision of what Apache RTX line could look like. He has created renders of both the street naked and ADV versions of their BMW counterparts. When TVS launches them, these motorcycles will get SmartXonnect Bluetooth system and compatible smartphone app as well. Pricing will be less than BMW counterparts despite feature additions. More

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    Bajaj Sales Breakup May 2023 – Pulsar, Chetak, Platina, Dominar, Avenger

    Bajaj PulsarBajaj Auto sales in May 2023 saw the Pulsar range most popular in domestic markets while it was the Boxer that commanded the export listIt was seen that while sales in domestic markets improved significantly, exports finished in the red. Total sales (domestic + exports) stood at 2,97,733 units in May 2023. This was a growth of over 2,39,934 units sold in May 2022. Domestic sales improved by 102.27 percent to 1,89,526 units in May 2023 from 93,701 units sold in May 2022. Volume growth stood at 95,825 units. It was also a MoM growth from 1,76,512 units sold in April 2023.Bajaj Pulsar saw the highest sales in May 2023 with 1,28,403 units sold during the month. This was an 85.44 percent growth from 69,241 units sold in May 2022. The Pulsar range commands a 67.75 percent share in the company lineup.Bajaj Sales Breakup May 2023 – Pulsar at No. 1In this range, it was the Pulsar 125cc that received most attention with 87,071 units sold last month, relating to a 54.39 percent YoY growth from 56,396 units sold in May 2022. Pulsar 150cc sales grew by 187 percent YoY to 19,034 units from 6,632 units sold in May 2022 while Pulsar 200cc and Pulsar 250cc sales were at 16,155 units and 6,143 units respectively.Of the Platina, the company sold 42,154 units last month, a YoY growth of 143.16 percent from 17,336 units sold in May 2022. Sales of Chetak electric scooter improved by 261.95 percent YoY to 9,208 units from 2,544 units sold in May 2022 while it was a 386.48 percent YoY growth for the Bajaj CT with 6,115 units sold last month, over 1,257 units sold in May 2022.Bajaj sales breakup May 2023Bajaj Avenger also posted a YoY growth of 20.45 percent to 2,544 units last month of which the Avenger 200 accounted for 1,612 unit sales and the Avenger 250cc saw sales of 932 units. Dominar sales on the other hand dipped 9 percent YoY to 1,102 units from 1,211 units sold in May 2022 of which there were 519 units of Dominar 250cc sold relating to a YoY growth though there were only 583 units of Dominar 500cc sold down from 769 units sold in May 2022.Bajaj Boxer Dominate Export List in May 2023Bajaj Auto Exports in May 2023 fell by 26 percent YoY to 1,08,207 units from 1,46,233 units shipped in May 2022. This was a volume de-growth of 38,026 units. Every model in the list has posted YoY de-growth except for the Pulsar and Platina.Bajaj Boxer topped sales charts with 58,476 units shipped last month, down 31.43 percent over 85,282 units shipped in May 2022. The Boxer 125cc saw increased demand by 99.49 percent to 7,086 units up from 3,552 units shipped in May 2022 while exports of Boxer 150cc dipped by 24.95 percent to 11,048 units.Bajaj exports breakup May 2023Pulsar exports improved by 13.94 percent to 27,691 units in May 2023 with positive demand seen for Pulsar 200cc (15,883 units) and 250cc (3,774 units) but in the red for Pulsar 125cc (3,690 units) and 150cc (4,344 units). Bajaj CT exports fell by 28.52 percent to 13,656 units in May 2023 from 19,104 units sold in May 2022 while Dominar exports slipped by 6.91 percent to 3,314 units in the past month from 3,560 units shipped in May 2022.Positive YoY growth was also reported for the Bajaj Platina which was up 1.59 percent to 3,060 units from 3,012 units shipped in May 2022. Of the Platina range, it was the Platina 110cc that commanded the most attention with 2,580 units shipped last month while there had been only 480 units of Platina 125cc exported in the same month. The export list also included Bajaj Discover (1,984 units), down 81.09 percent from 10,492 units sold in May 2022. Avenger exports also fell by 95 percent to just 24 units in May 2023 from 480 units exported in May 2022 while Chetak exports were down to 2 units last month. More

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    TVS Sales Breakup May 2023 – Jupiter, Apache, Ntorq, iQube, Raider

    New TVS Apache 160TVS Motor had the Jupiter scooter highest in demand in domestic markets while the Star City 125 found increased buyers in exportsTVS Motor Company has registered a YoY sales (domestic + exports) growth from 2,85,247 units in May 2022 to 3,17,249 units in May 2023. It was positive growth seen across domestic markets while exports fell substantially on a YoY basis.Sales in domestic markets stood at 2,52,690 units in May 2023, relating to a 31.97 percent YoY growth when compared to 1,91,482 units sold in May 2022. This was a volume increase of 61,208 units. It was also a MoM growth when compared to 2,32,956 units sold in April 2023.TVS Motor Domestic Sales May 2023Topping domestic sales charts was the TVS Jupiter scooter with 57,698 units sold last month, down 3.21 percent from 59,613 units sold in May 2022. Jupiter currently commands a 22.83 percent share on this list. The Jupiter scooter was at No. 2 on the top 10 list in May 2023 with the Honda Activa taking the No. 1 spot.TVS Apache sales increased 55.14 percent in May 2023 to 41.955 units, up from 27,044 units sold in May 2022. It was followed by the XL moped with a 1.96 percent YoY growth to 35,837 units sold in the past month. Outstanding sales growth was reported for the TVS Raider, sales of which had stood at just 344 units in May 2022. Sales improved by 9911.63 percent to 34,440 units in May 2023.TVS sales breakup May 2023TVS Ntorq (27,556 units) and iQube (17,913 units) also saw sales increase by 5.96 percent and 579.29 percent respectively. There was also sales growth for TVS Sport by 25.06 percent to 14,779 units in May 2023 from 11,818 units sold in May 2022. The list also included Radeon (10,615 units) and Zest (5,632 units), both of which have seen YoY sales growth of 9.81 percent and 3.62 percent respectively. However, sales of Star City(4,381 units), Pep+ (1,617 units) and RR310 (267 units) dipped on a YoY basis.TVS Exports dip 31.15 percent in May 2023Exports fell by 31.15 percent in May 2023 with TVS Motor Company shipping 64,559 units in the past month, down from 93,765 units exported in May 2022. It was a MoM growth from 60,348 units shipped in April 2023.Star City 125 was the most exported model in the company lineup last month. Exports stood at 28,731 units, down 29.43 percent from 40,710 units sold in May 2022. The Star City 125 currently commands a 44.50 percent share. Star City exports also dipped 43.57 percent YoY to 13,262 units in May 2023 from 23,500 units shipped in May 2022.TVS exports breakup May 2023There were also 6,292 units of the Jupiter scooter exported last month.  TVS Apache exports also fell significantly on a YoY basis to 6,077 units in May 2023, down 47.70 percent when compared to 11,620 units sold in May 2022. While exports of TVS Ntorq increased by 25.86 percent to 3,816 units last month, that of Raider fell by 51.11 percent to 3,687 units from 7,542 units shipped in May 2022.There was a 100 percent growth in exports of TVS Victor with 960 units shipped last month from 480 units sold in May 2022. The export list also included the Sport (828 units), Wego (632 units) , Radeon (160 units), RR310 (60 units and XL (54 units). More

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    Royal Enfield Shotgun 350 Spied Alongside Classic 650 – New Details

    New Royal Enfield MotorcyclesWhile Classic 650 has been spotted earlier, this is the first time Shotgun 350 is seen on road testsRoyal Enfield is working diligently on its blitzkrieg mission by introducing a plethora of options for enthusiasts. As per plans, RE will be launching an average of 4 new / updated bikes every year till 2027. It will help tackle competition from new rivals as well as increase the brand’s presence in international markets.While one of the most awaited is the all-new Himalayan 450, Royal Enfield is also working to expand its 350cc and 650cc range. Latest spy shots reveal two new bikes, which are likely to be Shotgun 350 and Classic 650. Spotted without any camouflage, some of the finer details are clearly evident.New Royal Enfield MotorcyclesShotgun 350 styling and featuresShotgun 350 utilizes the signature features of Royal Enfield bikes. It includes the round headlamp and rear-view mirrors, curvy fuel tank design, minimal body panelling and wide rear fender. However, there are some unique features that ensure a distinctive identity for the bike. For example, Shotgun 350 has white wall tyres, which add more character to the bike. The one thing that stands out is the Ape Hanger handlebars. The bike has forward-set foot pegs, indicative of its cruising capabilities.Other key highlights of Shotgun 350 include telescopic front forks, wire-spoke wheels, side-mounted grab rails, split seat design and dual rear shock absorbers. It appears that some of the accessories are also being tested, as the bike can be seen with a side pannier.New Royal Enfield MotorcyclesIn terms of performance, Shotgun 350 will be using the 349cc, air-oil cooled single cylinder engine seen with other 350cc RE bikes. It generates 20.2 bhp of max power and 27 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 5-speed constant mesh gearbox.Classic 650 detailsClassic 650 borrows the timeless design of its smaller sibling in most parts. It is possible that both wire-spoke and alloy wheel variants could be on offer. While this test mule has wire-spoke wheels, an earlier sighting had revealed dual-tone alloy wheels.Classic 650 gets some unique features such as LED headlight, as compared to halogen light used with the smaller sibling. Classic 650 has liberal use of chrome, as seen on the headlamp, engine casing and exhaust pipes. The separate rider and pillion seats enhance the bike’s retro feel.New Royal Enfield MotorcyclesPowering Classic 650 will be the 648cc parallel-twin engine in use with 650 twins and Super Meteor 650. The engine generates 47 hp and 52.3 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 6-speed constant mesh gearbox.As both bikes appear production ready, launch could take place later this year. It is possible that Royal Enfield may officially unveil its new bikes at upcoming EICMA in November. Shotgun 350 and Classic 650 are expected to be offered at a competitive price point, as has been the case with all other Royal Enfield bikes.Source More

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    Royal Enfield Sales Breakup May 2023 – Classic, Hunter, Meteor, Himalayan

    Royal Enfield Hunter 350Royal Enfield has posted both a YoY and MoM growth in domestic sales while Exports fell on a YoY basisRoyal Enfield, a leader in the 350cc motorcycle segment in India has posted significant growth in terms of total sales (domestic + exports). Sales on a YoY basis improved to 77,461 units in May 2023 from 63,643 units sold in May 2022. Currently commanding the 350 cc segment in India, the company has also announced the launch of 13 new motorcycles over coming years as a part of their 4 motorcycles per year plan the next 3-4 years.Sales in domestic markets grew both on a YoY and MoM basis in May 2023. RE Sales stood at 70,795 units in May 2023, up 32.27 percent when compared to 53,525 units sold in May 2022. This was a volume growth of 17,270 units. MoM sales also saw an increase of 2.78 percent from 68,881 units sold in April 2023.Royal Enfield Sales Breakup May 2023Though posting YoY and MoM de-growth, the Classic 350 led the domestic sales list with 26,350 units sold in the past month, down 12.05 percent as against 29,959 units sold in May 2022. MoM sales also fell by 1.61 percent as there had been 26,781 units sold in April 2023. This led to a fall in share to 37.22 percent from 38.88 percent MoM. The RE Classic 350 was at No. 8 on the list of top 10 best selling motorcycles in May 2023.Hunter 350, a relatively newcomer to the company portfolio following its launch in August 2022, sales stood at 18,869 units last month, a MoM growth of 19.43 percent from 15,799 units sold in April 2023. Hunter 350 also recently in Feb 2023 achieved a milestone sales pitch of 1 lakh sales recorded in 6 months of launch.Royal Enfield sales breakup May 2023While Bullet 350cc sales increased YoY to 8,314 units from 6,958 units sold in May 2022, it was a MoM de-growth of 1.01 percent over 8,399 units sold in April 2023. RE Meteor 350 sales fell YoY and MoM to 7,024 units while Electra 350 posted 15.84 percent YoY and 15.53 percent MoM growth to 4,366 units in the past month.In the larger displacement segment, RE models such as the Himalayan also saw YoY and MoM growth to 4,064 units while sales of the 650 Twins dipped 28.52 percent YoY to 970 units and also 47.99 percent MoM. RE Super Meteor was launched in Jan 2023. It accounted for 838 unit sales in May 2023 while MoM sales dipped by 26.43 percent from 1,139 units sold in April 2023.Royal Enfield Exports May 2023It was a 34.12 percent YoY de-growth in exports to 6,666 units in May 2023 from 10,118 units sold in May 2022. MoM performance improved by 56.66 percent from 4,255 units shipped in April 2023.Royal Enfield exports breakup May 2023It was the RE Classic 350 that also commanded the export list with 1,526 units shipped last month, a 45.09 percent YoY de-growth but 23.16 percent improvement on a MoM basis. It was followed by the Super Meteor that saw 1,322 units shipped in May 2023 while Hunter 350 also saw a total of 1,296 units exported last month.There were also 1,293 units of RE Meteor 350 exported in May 2023 relating to a 40.17 percent YoY de-growth but 128.85 percent MoM improvement. The export list also included RE 650 Twins (694 units and Himalayan (535 units) out of which 650 Twin exports fell on YoY basis by 86.60 percent but improved practically two fold over 363 units sold in April 2023. More

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    Harley-Davidson X440 Exhaust Note Teased – Pure Music

    New Harley Davidson X440Transforming roaring engine noises into a musical purr is an art that has been perfected by Harley-DavidsonDeveloped in collaboration with Hero MotoCorp, Harley Davidson X440 is scheduled to make its global debut next month. It’s a new beginning for the marquee brand, as it throws the challenge to middleweight segment leader Royal Enfield.Ahead of its launch, Harley-Davidson has shared a captivating teaser of X440 gliding through the great Himalayas. Also revealed is the exhaust note, which seems quite refined and melodious. Ultimately, it’s the enthusiasts’ votes that will determine if X440 has better vocals in comparison to Royal Enfield bikes.Harley-Davidson X440 exhaust noteEvidence to the single-cylinder engine is quite strong with the bike’s exhaust note. The thumping rhythm seems familiar to that of Royal Enfield, especially when the engine kicks into action and is idling. However, the exhaust note of X440 acquires a more distinct quality at high revs. X440’s exhaust note is most melodious at high speeds. The throaty feel is there, but it appears to be tamed down a bit for a more refined aural experience.X440 may not be looking at playing the volume game. However, having a sweet-sounding exhaust note doesn’t hurt. It can actually help push sales. A relevant example is apparently Royal Enfield bikes that are loved for their exhaust note. Over the years, exhaust note of Royal Enfield bikes has evolved to become more refined. It’s based on changing consumer preferences as well as new sound emission norms.New Harley Davidson X440Even though X440 seems to have perfected the exhaust note, a definitive conclusion cannot be derived until one gets to test drive this new machine. Things could turn out to be different in the real world, as compared to listening to a recording. Enthusiasts will surely be eager to carry out a side-by-side comparison of X440 and a Royal Enfield bike, which will include the exhaust note. On speakers, it appears that Royal Enfield finally has a match, if not something better.Harley X440 performance, specsPowering Harley-Davidson X440 will be a single-cylinder, 440cc air-/oil cooled engine. It is estimated to produce around 40 Nm of peak torque. For reference, Royal Enfield Classic 350 churns out 20 hp and 27 Nm. Clearly, X440 has a lot more power to tackle a wide variety of terrain. Harley could offer specialized accessories to make X440 suitable for long-distance journeys.As compared to other Harley bikes that have belt drive, X440 is equipped with chain final drive. This will ensure long lifespan and low maintenance. Chain drive also suits local conditions.Harley X440 has a neo-retro profile with features such as round headlamp and rear-view mirrors. It has all-LED lighting, circular instrument pod, tapering fuel tank design, USD front forks and dual rear shock absorbers. The bike has a comfortable riding stance, with wide handlebar and centrally-positioned foot pegs. More

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    Royal Enfield Electric Motorcycle Production Version Render – 6 Colours

    Royal Enfield Electric Motorcycle – RenderRoyal Enfield can launch the first of its electric bikes in 2025, based on an entirely new platformIt is known that Royal Enfield is working diligently to develop its electric bikes. As the ICE portfolio also needs to be handled simultaneously, it may take a couple of years before the first Royal Enfield electric bike debuts. It will be an entirely new journey for the company, quite like starting from scratch.Launch of Royal Enfield electric bikes has been delayed due to the pandemic. It is not certain if prototypes have been developed or things are still on the drawing board. Test mules are yet to be spotted, although OEMs are known to test new products at overseas locations as well.Only evidence is a glimpse of Royal Enfield Electrik 01 Concept that was leaked online last year. To get a better idea about Royal Enfield’s electric bike, Pratyush Rout has come up with a digital render based on the leaked concept.Royal Enfield electric bike renderWhile the body details have changed, the core silhouette is still familiar to current bestsellers like Classic 350. Retro bits have been retained, as seen with the round headlamp and rear-view mirrors and teardrop fuel tank. The latter is there just for the aesthetics, although it can have a compact storage space on the inside.Royal Enfield Electric Motorcycle – RenderAnother interesting detail is the front girder fork, usually seen with vintage motorcycles. It is not certain if the production variant will have this feature or not. Girder forks have long been replaced with standard telescopic forks and USD forks. The battery pack housing is completely covered with rugged looking panels. The deep grooves on the panelling ensure a distinctive character for the bike. The triangular boxes towards the rear exude a sense of familiarity with the current range of Royal Enfield bikes.Colour theme comprises the primary shade, along with a contrasting colour used to highlight the bike’s outer layers. The contrasting shade is also used on the headlamp cowl, graphics and alloy wheels.Royal Enfield electric bike performance, rangeIn terms of performance, Royal Enfield electric bike will have capabilities similar to its 350cc siblings. The first launch could be a roadster, meant for city commutes. Other formats such as electric ADVs and cruisers can be introduced at a later date. Range of Royal Enfield electric bike could be around 100 to 150 km.Royal Enfield Electric Motorcycle – RenderAs Royal Enfield bikes are preferred for their large size, installing a higher capacity battery pack shouldn’t pose any major challenges. But this approach can clash with the company’s focus on affordability. It is imperative that a middle ground be discovered to ensure an optimal mix of performance and affordability.Royal Enfield has mega plans for electric segment, as evident with investment commitments worth Rs 2,000 crore. This will be part of the PLI scheme and spread over a period of five years. Royal Enfield is also expected to make investments for developing charging infrastructure across the country.Disclaimer – Design renders presented in this blog are solely for illustrative purposes and have not been commissioned, approved, or endorsed by the manufacturer. Designs presented here may not reflect the final product or the manufacturer’s intentions. The renders are provided as conceptual designs or artistic interpretations only, and their accuracy or feasibility cannot be guaranteed. More

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    Yamaha Neo’s Electric Scooter Plan Shelved – India To Get New Premium EV

    2023 Yamaha Neo’s Electric ScooterWith most EV users prioritizing cost per km, it has become challenging for established ICE players to integrate traditional brand values in their electric productsElectric-two-wheeler segment in India has been registering robust growth month after month. However, ICE-based OEMs like Yamaha, Honda, Suzuki and Royal Enfield are yet to foray in this space. Clearly, a sense of urgency seems to be missing, as generally seen with startups in EV segment.Talking about Yamaha specifically, the company was planning to bring its Neo’s electric scooter to India. This was confirmed around a year back by Eishin Chihana, chairman of Yamaha India. However, things have changed since then. Yamaha’s entry into EV space in India has been further delayed by around 2 to 3 years.Yamaha working on new premium EVDiscontinuation of Neo’s India launch plans is quite disheartening for Yamaha enthusiasts who were eagerly waiting to see their favourite brand in electric format. However, Yamaha has assured that they are working on a new premium EV for Indian market. This will be a performance-oriented electric machine, much better and capable than Neo’s. It’s just that users will have to wait patiently for 2-3 years to see this new Yamaha EV in action.There are specific reasons why Neo’s launch plan in India has been shelved. Firstly, the immediate ecosystem has changed dramatically with things like reduction in subsidies and newer regulatory policies. Moreover, Yamaha has realized that the purpose of buying an EV in India is different from that of other markets.2023 Yamaha Neo’s Electric ScooterFor example, people in Europe buy EV scooters, as they feel motivated to do their bit for the environment. In India, most users buy EVs with the goal to reduce running costs. This is due to an increase in petrol prices. In comparison, Yamaha’s existing ICE customer base focuses on other aspects such as style, aspirational value and performance. This is why Yamaha is working on a new premium EV for India. It will be sporty, stylish and exciting, a perfect match with brand Yamaha.Not chasing volumesWith its new premium EV for India, Yamaha will cater to a niche target audience. The new EV will be meant for folks who are looking for something truly unique. Yamaha will not be focusing on volumes with its upcoming premium EV. Instead, the focus is on creating something sporty and outstanding. It will have an electric heart, but style and performance will be just as good as the current range of Yamaha bikes.Yamaha does not want to create something in a rush, as it won’t add value to the brand. So, the company will invest adequate time and effort in development of the new EV. For folks who can’t wait, it will be better to go with Yamaha’s ICE-based machines such as R15 and MT-15. Yamaha is also working on plans to bring R3, R7, MT-03, MT-07 and MT-09 to India.Source More