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      Kawasaki Eliminator launched in the US – Price USD 6,649 (Rs 5.48 lakh)

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      Kawasaki Eliminator SE ABSThe same 451cc parallel twin engine on Kawasaki Eliminator US-spec model does duties on Ninja 400 as wellKawasaki has revived its Eliminator brand from the dead after a decade. This bodes well to the brand as it evokes a certain nostalgia within the target demographic. Eliminator series is a low-sling textbook cruiser motorcycle that get engines from their respective Ninja and Z counterparts.The first Eliminator model debuted for JDM with a 399cc parallel twin engine from a Ninja 300. Now Kawasaki has showcased Eliminator for USA, which features a larger 451cc parallel twin engine from Ninja 400. In USA, Kawasaki Eliminator will rival the likes of Honda Rebel 500 and a few cruisers from Royal Enfield like Meteor 350.Kawasaki Eliminator Debuts In USAFor some reason, Kawasaki has resorted to offering a larger engine for US market. Compared to Ninja 400’s engine, Eliminator has a 6.8 mm longer stroke to ensure more torque, probably at a lower rev range. This is evident in torque figures as Eliminator has 42.97 Nm as opposed to 37 Nm of Ninja 400.In USA, Kawasaki Eliminator measures 2250 mm in length, 785 mm in width, 1099 mm in height, 1518 mm long wheelbase. It has a 30-degree rake angle too, which is relatively sharp for a low-slung cruiser. Ground clearance is 150 mm and seat height is 734 mm. 12.8L fuel tank is very small considering that it is a cruiser.Standard Kawasaki EliminatorKawasaki Eliminator comes in two variants. Standard Eliminator and Eliminator SE. On top of the standard model, Eliminator SE offers exclusive colours, two pattern seats, a headlight cowl, fork boots and a waterproof USB-C charging port for smartphones or other accessories. Standard model comes in Pearl Robotic White and Pearl Storm Grey shades, while SE gets a sole Candy Steel Furnace Orange / Ebony dual-tone colourway.The motorcycle gets a steel tubular frame, 41 mm RSU telescopic front forks, twin shock absorbers for rear suspension, 18” front wheel wrapped with 130/70-18 tyre and a rear 16” wheel wrapped with 150/60-18 tyre. Pulled back handlebar, neutral footpeg position and a low 176 kg kerb weight ensure a fatigue-free cruising.Will it Eliminate its rivals?Kawasaki Eliminator comes equipped with a variation of Ninja 400 engine. This is a 451cc parallel twin motor, mated to a 6-speed gearbox. 4V head, slip and assist clutch are notable features. Kawasaki is offering single disc setups at both ends with an option for dual channel ABS. There is a round fully digital instrument cluster too, with Bluetooth connectivity.Standard Kawasaki Eliminator Engine from Ninja 400In USA standard Eliminator costs USD 6,649 (5.48 lakh) for non ABS model and USD 6,949 (Rs. 5.72 lakh) for ABS model. Eliminator SE gets ABS as standard and costs USD 7,249 (Rs. 5.97 lakh). Kawasaki India hasn’t revealed any information regarding launch of Eliminator cruiser in the Asian subcontinent. More

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      KTM India Sales April 2023 – Duke, RC, 125, 200, 250, 390 ADV

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      Image – MotobikeKTM total sales, that included both domestic and exports grew on a YoY basis but dipped MoMKTM India has performed well on a YoY basis with a 6.98 percent growth to 11,729 units sold in April 2023, up from 10,964 units sold in April 2022. MoM sales however, fell by 1.87 percent from 11,952 units sold in March 2023.Sales in domestic markets stood at 5,078 units in April 2023 which was a 680.03 percent YoY growth over 651 units sold in April 2022. MoM sales however, dipped 19.19 percent from 6,284 units sold in March 2023.KTM India Domestic Sales April 2023KTM had its 200 (Duke and RC) at the top of sales charts with 2,673 units sold in the past month, a 1782.39 percent YoY growth over 142 units sold in April 2022. This was a 2,531 unit volume growth with a 52.64 percent share. MoM sales fell by 8.30 percent from 2,915 units sold in March 2023.Outstanding YoY growth was also seen for the KTM 250 range which improved by 5516 percent YoY to 1,404 units in the past month from 25 units sold in April 2022. MoM sales fell by 18.13 percent from 1,715 units sold in March 2023. It currently commands a 27.65 percent share.KTM India domestic sales April 2023YoY growth was also reported for the KTM 390 and KTM 125 though MoM sales dipped. KTM 390 series (Duke + RC + ADV) has posted 85 percent YoY growth but 30.63 percent MoM decline to 838 units while KTM 125 (Duke + RC) sales improved by 433.33 percent on a YoY basis but fell by 63.45 MoM to 163 units in April 2023.KTM India Exports April 2023KTM exports on the other hand has seen a de-growth in YoY sales by 35.51 percent to 6,651 units from 10,313 units shipped in April 2022. MoM sales grew by 17.34 percent from 5,668 units shipped in March 2023.In global markets, it was the KTM 390 series that commanded the most attention. Sales stood at 3,812 units in the past month, a YoY de-growth of 26.76 percent from 5,205 units sold in April 2022. MoM sales improved by 52.72 percent from 2,496 units sold in March 2023. This took the share percentage up to 57.31 percent from 44.04 percent held in March 2023.KTM India exports April 2023While KTM 200 series exports grew YoY by 7.25 percent and MoM by 44.83 percent to 2,100 units, that of its 250 series dipped YoY by 51.27 percent to 539 units while MoM exports increased by 25.93 percent from 428 units shipped in March 2023. KTM 125 range was not much in demand in global markets as sales fell 35.51 percent YoY and 84.54 percent MoM to 200 units in April 2023.KTM Total Sales April 2023Total sales (domestic + exports) grew 6.98 percent YoY but dipped by 1.87 percent MoM to 11,729 units in April 2023. It was the KTM 200 range that saw the most sales at 4,773 units in April 2023, up 127.29 percent YoY and 9.35 percent MoM. It was followed by the KTM 390 of which the company sold 4,650 units in the past month, down 17.83 percent YoY but up 25.54 percent MoM.KTM India total April 2023KTM 250 series also improved on a YoY basis by 71.79 percent to 1,943 units from 1,131 units sold in April 2022 but fell by 9.33 percent from 2,143 units sold in March 2023. KTM 125 series total sales fell to 363 units in the past month down 82.50 percent YoY and 79.14 percent MoM. More

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      2023 Hero Passion Plus Launch Price Rs 76k – New Features Added

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      2023 Hero Passion PlusExcluding Splendor + XTEC variant, Passion Plus is now the costliest 100cc bike from Hero MotoCorpWith Hero’s 100cc bikes being its bread and butter, it’s natural to feel a bit anxious when there’s a new capable rival in town. If consumer attention is diverted towards recently launched Honda Shine 100, it would be a setback for Hero MotoCorp.To deal with the insecurity, Hero is working on a multi-pronged strategy. For example, HF Deluxe was recently updated with new colours and features. And now, Hero has reintroduced Passion Plus 100cc. The bike was discontinued in 2019, owing to low demand. Hero now has a total of five 100cc bikes to tackle the threat from Honda Shine 100.Hero Passion Plus styling and featuresAs compared to Hero’s 100cc bikes like Splendor+, HF Deluxe and HF 100, the newly launched Passion Plus has a more premium profile. It explains why Passion Plus is categorized under Hero’s Executive range and not under the Practical range. Before Passion Plus, the Executive range had only 110cc and 125cc bikes. Hero’s Performance range has motorcycles in 160cc and 200cc segment.Passion Plus has a seamless design, with a lot more skin in comparison to other 100cc bikes from Hero. With availability of a broader canvas, it has been possible to paint some cool graphics onto the bike. The graphics have a smooth flow, extending all the way from the fuel tank to the grab rail section. Matching graphics can be seen on the headlamp cowl as well. Hero Passion Plus is available in colour options of Sports Red, Black Nexus Blue and Black Heavy Grey.2023 Hero Passion PlusIn terms of features, Hero Passion Plus is largely the same as Splendor Plus. Some of the key highlights include i3S technology, side stand indicator, semi-digital instrument console, mobile charging port and spacious utility case. Hero Passion Plus has a long, wide seat, which should ensure optimal comfort for both rider and pillion.Hero Passion Plus performance, specsPassion Plus is using the same 97.2cc engine, as seen with other 100cc bikes from Hero. The air-cooled unit generates 8 PS of max power and 8.05 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 4-speed constant mesh gearbox.While there is no official mileage number, Passion Plus could deliver around 60+ kmpl of fuel efficiency. Passion Plus is 115kg, as compared to 112 Kg of Splendor Plus. This could make it slightly less fuel efficient. Passion Plus has a larger 11 litres fuel tank, as compared to 9.8 litres of Splendor+.2023 Hero Passion PlusPassion Plus utilizes a double cradle frame, suspended on telescopic front forks and dual rear shock absorbers. The bike has 18-inch wheels at both ends, shod with 80/100 tubeless tyres at front and rear. Braking duties are performed by 130mm drum brakes at both ends.At Rs 76,301, Passion Plus is costlier than Honda Shine that is available at a starting price of Rs 64,900. Clearly, Hero doesn’t want to take any chances. It is ensuring that options are available at both ends of the spectrum, i.e., below and above the price of Honda Shine 100. How effective that strategy will be remains to be seen. More

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      New Triumph Motorcycle India Launch 5th July – Royal Enfield Rival?

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      New Bajaj Triumph Motorcycle Will Rival Royal Enfield – RenderNew Triumph motorcycle is likely to be powered by a 350-400cc engine – that can develop around 30 bhp of power and 30 Nm of torque, mated to a 6-speed gearboxTriumph is creating a new entry-level segment for itself. The British brand has chosen Bajaj to manufacture this upcoming motorcycle as its strategic partner. Bajaj took over Triumph’s operations in India as part of the agreement. It will be launched as a Triumph. Global debut will take place at the end of this month in London, while India launch will take place on 5th July 2023.There are rumours of two different platforms in the works. A smaller 250cc and a larger 400cc. Leaked spy shots give an insight into what to expect from the new Bajaj-Triumph motorcycle. The launch teaser shows that it will be a scrambler that will be first launched.Triumph motorcycle launch on 5th July 2023New Bajaj-Triumph Test Mule – The Premium Scrambler?The new test mule dons Triumph’s classic design language used on its Bonneville lineup. It could be powered by a liquid-cooled engine that might displace around 350-400cc. 30 bhp of power and 30 Nm of torque are likely.In the spy shots we can see a large radiator mounted ahead of its engine. Dual barrel exhaust design reminds me of the Triumph Scrambler 900. Headlights, ORVMs and turn indicators are round, except for its LED tail lights. A teardrop fuel tank with an offset fuel filler opening is immediately noticeable. A high-set front beak and a tall windscreen lend it an adventurous look.Triumph motorcycle launch on 5th July 2023Part-digital instrument clusters radiate modernity. Instrument cluster layout reminds me of Triumph’s Daytona 675, but flipped vertically. Gear position indicator, fuel economy stats, odometer, trips, time and telltale lights are likely. Bluetooth with turn-by-turn navigation will be a welcome addition.Triumph motorcycle launch on 5th July 2023Other notable elements include USD front forks, rear mono-shock, single disc brake setups at both fronts, 19” front and 17” rear alloy wheel setup (rumoured), engine protection guards, split seat setup, rear grab rails and more. All components are mounted on a tubular frame. It gets a bolt-on rear subframe. Rider’s triangle is geared towards comfort and long hauls.Royal Enfield is currently the de-facto retro motorcycle manufacturer in India. Bajaj-Triumph is eying for some of this pie along with Hero-Harley’s upcoming X440. Pricing is likely to be higher than Royal Enfield. More details will be revealed at the launch on 5th July, 2023. More

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      New Hero Xtreme 160R Launch On June 14th – Apache, Pulsar rival

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      Hero Xtreme 160R USD Front Forks SpiedChanges on the new Hero Xtreme 160R are likely to be USD front forks and Bluetooth connectivity with turn-by-turn navigationIndia’s largest bikemaker, Hero MotoCorp is set to launch its updated Xtreme 160R USD fork variant on June 14th. This particular motorcycle rivals the likes of Bajaj Pulsar NS160, Pulsar N160, TVS Apache RTR 160 4V and the likes.As of now, Bajaj Pulsar NS160 is the only one to offer USD front forks. Hero is set to take on its rival by offering USD front forks for added agility and muscular stance. We expect other changes bundled as well. Pricing will see a hike with updated features, which Hero MotoCorp will announce on June 14th.Hero Xtreme 160R USD Fork VersionAs of now, Hero Xtreme 160R is not a high-seller for India’s highest-selling 2W brand. For instance, Xtreme 160R / Xtreme 200S sold a combined 105 units in March 2023. Hero’s own Xpulse 200, which is a more expensive motorcycle, sold 4,525 units in the same time period.With heavy hitters like Apache RTR 160 4V, Pulsar NS160 and Pulsar N160 to compete, Hero is set to make it more feature rich. For starters, it will get USD (Up-Side Down) telescopic front forks as opposed to RSU (Right-Side Up) telescopic forks on the outgoing model. This lends a muscular appeal to the bike’s overall design.2023 Hero Xtreme 160R launch teaserFunctionally, USD forks should enable sportier handling and a better front-end feel. We hope Hero MotoCorp adds Bluetooth functionality along with turn-by-turn navigation which is present on Xpulse 200 and Xtreme 200S. This will lend a tech-savvy appeal to Xtreme 160R that might work in its favour. It is highly unlikely that Hero will make any changes to its engine. Considering that Raider 125 gets oil cooling, we hope Hero adds oil-cooling setup on this engine to extract more oomph.A feature-loaded 160cc motorcycleHero Xtreme 160R has quite a few features already. Some of them are LED headlights, LED tail lights, LED turn indicators, hazard light function, smoked effect tail light, a fully digital instrument cluster, knuckle guards and more. With USD telescopic front forks, updated instrument cluster with Bluetooth functionality, Xtreme 160R will make a stronger case in its segment.The company will retain its 163cc single cylinder engine, generating 15 bhp of power and 14 Nm of torque. This engine features a 5-speed gearbox as well. Other componentry include mono-shock rear suspension, front and rear disc brakes (rear optional), single channel ABS, 17” alloy wheels, 100/80-17 front and 130-70-17 rear tyres and more.With the new updates, there will be an increment in price tag. We expect a hike of around Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 10,000. All these changes are likely to make it a more appealing motorcycle than before and help boost sales. For context, prices for Hero Xtreme 160R start from Rs. 1,18,886 (ex-sh). More

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      Simple One electric scooter 1st owner takes delivery in Bengaluru

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      Simple One first deliveryThe Simple ONE electric scooter promises a range of 212 kms and top speed of 105 km/h – Prices start from Rs 1.45 lakhAfter a lot of delay, Bengaluru based startup, Simple Energy has finally started the delivery of their new electric scooter Simple One. The first batch of owners took the delivery in Bengaluru. As of now, the scooter is only on sale in Bengaluru. It will be launched in more cities in a phased manner. Bookings for the Simple ONE, which had commenced 18 months ago and by now have registered over 1 lakh bookingsSpeaking on the occasion, Mr. Suhas Rajkumar, Founder and CEO, Simple Energy, said, “We are elated to commence the deliveries of the Simple ONE, starting with customers in Bengaluru. We are all proud of the hard work and dedication of our team in creating a holistic product that is both sustainable and an efficient transportation option for our customers. We are confident that we will be successful in creating a delightful ownership experience for our customers and believe that Simple ONE will revolutionize the segment by creating a greener future.”Simple One – The new electric scooter in townSimple One is presented in four single-tone colours options of Brazen Black, Namma Red, Azure Blue and Grace White. It also gets dual tons of white and black, with red alloy wheels and highlights. These dual-tones cost around cost Rs 5,000 over single-tone colour options.On board features include a flat seat, upright riding stance, grab rails for pillion riders, full view rear mirrors and turn signals. It also gets 30 liters of under seat storage which is large enough for a full face helmet. Simple ONE is also offered with a sari guard.The touchscreen infotainment display offers advanced features such as navigation, access to calls and music, screen customization and also features that include remote access, geo-fencing, turn by turn navigation, OTA updates and remote locking. Simple One mobile app is offered both on Android and Apple devices.Simple ONE – Batteries, Range, Charging, WarrantySimple ONE draws its power via a 5 kWh lithium ion battery that is claimed to offer an iDC range of 212 kms which is claimed to be best in segment. It comes in two battery packs; one of which is fixed and the other is removable. The battery powers a permanent magnet motor offering 8.5 kW power and 72 Nm torque. Acceleration from 0-40 km/h is possible in 2.77 seconds while top speed is claimed at 105 km/h. Battery charging from 0-80 percent is possible in 5 hours 54 minutes via a portable or home charger.It gets telescopic front forks, disc brakes at the front and rear measuring 200mm and 190 mm respectively and rides on 90/90-12 tyres fitted with 12 inch alloy wheels at both ends. Simple Energy is offering the Simple ONE with a 3 year or 30,000 km warranty on vehicle, motor and battery. The charger comes in with a 1 year/10,000 km warranty. Simple ONE electric scooter finds itself taking on other more established e-scooters such as the Ather 450X, Ola S1 Pro, TVS iQube, Bajaj Chetak and Hero Vida.Simple Energy plant, Simple Vision 1.0 is located at Shoolagiri, Tamil Nadu. They have an installed capacity of about 10 lakh units. More electric two wheeler launches are planned by Simple in the future. More

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      New Hero Karizma Launch Teaser – Fastest Ride Coming On 14th June

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      2023 Hero Karizma ZMRThe new 210cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine is likely to generate 25 bhp of power and 25 Nm of torque and equipped with a 6-speed gearboxProspect of Hero MotoCorp resurrecting its iconic Karizma brand has enthusiasts jumping in joy. For the OG Karizma had played strings of many Indian hearts. The company recently showcased the upcoming Karizma XMR 210 to dealers. Now, Hero MotoCorp has shared a new teaser on their social media, which announces a new launch on 14th June 2023. It is likely to be of the new Karizma.2023 Hero Karizma spy shot was leaked earlier. In its new avatar, it is a much sharper and sleeker motorcycle than Xtreme 200S. With the new design and a stronger engine, Karizma might assert dominance in 200-250cc fully faired motorcycle space.2023 Hero Karizma launch teaserHero Karizma XMR launch on 14th JuneIf we compare the upcoming Hero Karizma XMR with the recently showcased Xtreme 200S 4V, there are not a lot of component differences. For starters, conventional telescopic front forks, petal disc brakes, 100/80-17 front and 130/70-17 rear tyres look similar. Alloys look different and so does the rest of the motorcycle.There seems to be a new frame along with a new subframe. Fairing looks sharper and more aerodynamic. Headlights are sleeker and ORVMs are mounted on fairing. Clip-on handlebars look like they’re slightly higher set for comfort and relatively upright riding position. But it puts the headlight too low in contrast to its handlebars. Suzuki Gixxer SF features a similar design trait as well.Rear subframe is sleeker too. Hero has mounted pillion footpegs to this subframe. Split seat setup lends a sporty appeal. Exhaust end can is stubbier than Xtreme 200S. The fuel tank is taller and allows riders to grip it between their thighs. Black elements cut down on visual bulk significantly. The sleek body panels add to that effect too.New Karizma XMR’s get a liquid-cooled beating heartThis is the first Hero MotoCorp motorcycle to feature a liquid-cooled setup. Even the larger 420-450cc engine co-developed with Harley-Davidson is air and oil-cooled. Rumour mill suggests a new 6-speed gearbox that should aid high-speed highway cruising and fuel efficiency with a top-gear in overdrive ratio.The new engine is highly likely to displace 210cc as denoted by the 210 in Hero’s trademark. Performance figures might be around 25 bhp and 25 Nm of torque. This would be a sweet spot to rival the likes of Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 and Bajaj Pulsar RS200. We hope the same engine is equipped with Xpulse in the future. Off-road ability and high-speed highway cruising will get a solid boost.A fully digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation, ABS modes, instant fuel economy, LED lighting, hazard light are highly likely features. Considering that Hero is skimping on USD front forks, pricing will be aggressive, which will be a key strength for Karizma XMR 210. Prices could be in the Rs 1.5 lakh to Rs 1.8 lakh range. More

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      2024 Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 spied undisguised – Next to Bajaj Boxer

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      2024 Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 spiedThe same 399cc (rumoured) single-cylinder engine from 2024 KTM 390 Duke is likely to be part of Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 and Vitpilen 401Bajaj Auto manufactures KTM and Husqvarna motorcycles under 400cc at their plant near Pune in India. Now, a new gen Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 production-spec motorcycle has been spied undisguised inside a Bajaj Auto plant, as standing next to it is the export spec Bajaj Boxer.In India, Husqvarna only offers their 250cc range, and not the 401s. Will that change with the launch of this new gen motorcycle? Only time will tell. From the spy shots, it seems like the 2024 Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 gets the same set of updates that recently spied 2024 KTM 390 Duke received.2024 Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 spied – The Black ArrowOf the two motorcycles offered by Husqvarna, Svartpilen is a neo-retro scrambler-ish offering, while Svartpilen is a neo-retro cafe racer. This particular model lacks a tank rack, wire-spoke rims, upright handlebar and block-pattern tyres that are historically reminiscent of Svartpilen.Both next-gen Husqy twins will carry the same set of updates that next-gen KTM 390 Duke is getting. We’re talking about a brand new tubular trellis frame and an updated 399cc (rumoured) engine with more performance than the outgoing 373cc unit.Other notable changes similar to the new Duke include adjustable USD front forks from WP, a banana-shaped swingarm, an underbelly exhaust, an off-set rear mono-shock suspension with rebound adjust and more. Apart from KTM-sourced componentry, there are generational changes to new-gen Huskies as opposed to outgoing models.Changes from outgoing modelFor starters, the new bike looks bigger. Apart from that, we hope for better pillion comfort and better fit and finish and less exposed wiring. The new tail section is now at the rear subframe, rather than on its tyre hugger. This change is likely to apply to both Svartpilen and Vitpilen.Previous set of spy shots featured a test mule with block-pattern tyres, wire-spoke rims, a taller handlebar, and a rack on the fuel tank. This is likely to be a Scrambler variant of Svartpilen. Most of the electronic goodies from next gen KTM 390 Duke are likely to be a part of new gen Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 and Svartpilen 401 as well.India launch is likely as there is a saree guard present on the spied motorcycle. Husqvarna’s popularity in the Indian premium motorcycle segment is far less than KTM’s. We would wager that Husqvarna wants to upgrade itself in India and improve from the 100 motorcycles sold in April 2023.Image Source More