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      Harley Davidson X500 Launch Price 44k Yuan (Rs 5.3 L) – American Italian

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      The 500cc parallel-twin DOHC 8V motor on Harley-Davidson X500 is similar to Benelli Leoncino 500 with 46.8 bhp and 46 NmHarley Davidson X500
      Harley-Davidson X500 has been launched in China. This comes after the launch of X350 and teaser of HD-4XX for Indian market. New X350 and X500 are China-specific for now and will likely ship to other markets in the future. Both are manufactured by China’s QJ motorcycle brand.
      These are not likely to hit our shores. Harley-Davidson is strategically partnering up with local manufacturers for better market penetration. For China, it is QJ and for India, it is Hero MotoCorp. There are three colours to choose from, Dazzling Black, Vibrant Orange and Bright Silver. It costs 44,388 Yuan (approx Rs. 5.29 lakh).
      Harley-Davidson X500 – The American Cousin For Chinese-Owned Italian Bike
      Underneath all the American styling, Harley-Davidson X500 is a Benelli Leoncino 500. Benelli is now part of QJ. Harley X500 is an extensive badge engineering exercise between QJ and Harley-Davidson. One look at the spec sheet is enough to say that both Harley-Davidson X500 and Benelli Leoncino 500 share a lot of components.
      Speaking of spec sheets, both X500 and Leoncino 500 get the same 500cc parallel twin engine. It has 4V per cylinder, a DOHC setup and a liquid-cooled architecture. This engine is capable of generating 46.8 bhp of power at 8500 RPM and 46 Nm of torque at 6000 RPM. There are slight differences in dimensions, lean angles and wheelbase.
      Harley Davidson X500
      Most of the componentry is similar to. Harley-Davidson X500 dons 50mm USD front forks with 124 mm travel. It even supports rebound adjustment. There is a flatter rear subframe than Leoncino 500. It is suspended by the same mono-shock unit with 112 mm travel. It gets preload and rebound adjustments. (Suspension travel is from Leoncino 500).
      Engine crankcase is identical, but gets Harley-Davidson branding. Fuel tank shape is almost identical to Leoncino 500 and can hold 13L of fuel. Alloy wheels, dual barrel exhaust canister, dual 320 mm rotors with 4-piston caliper front and single 260 mm rotor with single-piston caliper rear brake setup are identical too. Switchable dual-channel ABS is present as well.
      Harley X500 Features And Specs
      X500 gets a different circular LED headlight with illuminated Harley-Davidson lettering and circular turn indicators doubling as brake lights. Harley-Davidson has installed Maxxis Supermaxx tyres measuring 120/70-R17 at the front and 160/60-R17 at the rear. Fatter rubber would lend an even muscular stance.
      Harley Davidson X500 vs X350
      There is a part-digital instrument console as well which looks relatively modern. Footpegs look center set, enabling an upright riding posture and neutral stance. All these are mounted on a trellis frame that looks identical to that of Leoncino 500. Harley-Davidson X500 weighs 208 kg wet. And is just a kilo heavier than its QJ-Benelli counterpart.
      At Rs. 5.29 lakh, X500 would be a good addition to Harley’s Indian lineup. But we will witness the Hero-Harley HD-4XX instead. It will bear a single-cylinder engine and launch at a much lower price tag. More

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      Bajaj Triumph Scrambler Spied Ahead Of Launch – New Details

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      With its compact, sharp profile, upcoming Bajaj-Triumph Scrambler can emerge as a capable challenger to Hunter 350Bajaj Triumph Scrambler Spied – Royal Enfield RivalBajaj has taken over Triumph India operations as part of the partnership deal signed. Later this year, we will get to see their first motorcycle, which is likely to be a Scrambler. While earlier test mules were spotted overseas, the new Bajaj-Triumph bike has now started its test runs in India.Launch is expected in last quarter of CY2023, as revealed by KTM CEO, Stefan Pierer. In an interview, Stefan had stated that Bajaj-Triumph partnership is not a threat to KTM. He had said that competition makes them better.Bajaj-Triumph Scrambler 400 bike – New detailsUpcoming Bajaj-Triumph bike is anyways not a rival to any of the KTM bikes. It will primarily challenge Royal Enfield 350cc bikes such as Hunter 350. From Bajaj’s perspective, this will be the company’s second attempt to take on Royal Enfield. The earlier attempt with Dominar didn’t quite create the kind of buzz Bajaj was aiming for.As the test mule has proper fit and finish and there doesn’t seem to be any temporary add-ons, it indicates that the bike could be nearing production stage. Upcoming Bajaj-Triumph bike has round LED headlamp, sleek turn indicators, classic fuel tank design, USD front forks, monoshock rear suspension, alloy wheels and blacked-out engine bay. Take a look at the detailed video shared by The Fat Biker channel.[embedded content][embedded content]Riding stance is fairly comfortable with centrally mounted foot pegs and slightly elevated handlebar. The bike has disc brakes at both ends and dual-channel ABS is expected to be offered as standard. In comparison to an earlier sighting when the test mule was seen with single-exhaust tips, this recent version has a dual exhaust tip. It seems to compliment the bike’s overall design and could be functionally relevant as well. It is possible that aural experience could also have been improved with the dual exhaust exit.Bajaj Triumph Scrambler Spied – Royal Enfield RivalOther key details include saree guard and pillion grab rail. The bike gets a twin-piece seat, which appears to be quite comfortable for the rider. However, the pillion seat section is a bit narrow. It could be okay for short rides, but doesn’t seem like a good idea for longer journeys. The test mule has Triumph accessories like soft top-box, saddle bag, tank bag, luggage mounts as well as protection parts.Bajaj-Triumph bike engine, specsIt is expected that upcoming Bajaj-Triumph range will have 250cc and 350-400cc versions. While official specs have not been revealed, the 250cc version could be generating around 30 bhp of max power. The larger 350cc bike will churn out around 40 bhp. The bikes will have features such as slipper clutch, liquid cooling, ride-by-wire tech and quick shifter. Connectivity features could also be on offer. In the spy video, we can notice an analogue speedometer, MID with gear position indicator, fuel gauge and tachometer.Bajaj Triumph Scrambler Spied – Royal Enfield RivalLaunch price of upcoming Bajaj-Triumph bike is likely to be around Rs 2 lakh to Rs 3 lakh. It is likely that multiple body styles such as roadster, scrambler, cafe racer and flat tracker will be available. Just like made-in-India KTMs, upcoming Bajaj-Triumph bikes will also be targeted at export markets. Harley Davidson has embarked on a similar mission with its entry-level motorcycle in partnership with Hero MotoCorp. More

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      2024 Hero Xpulse 420cc Render Based On Spy Shots – Himalayan, KTM 390 Rival

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      Hero is getting ready to launch a range of new motorcycles in the 400cc segment – One of them will be an ADVHero Xpulse 420cc – RenderHero MotoCorp is getting ready to launch a new adventure motorcycle, with a larger engine. It is likely to have the same engine which will power the upcoming Harley Davidson for India. This is rumoured to be a 420cc engine, and could carry the name Xpulse 420.Testing for the same has already begun and spy shots have leaked online. Rendering artist Pratyush Rout has penned down his vision of what Xpulse 420 could look like. His renderings are based on spy shots, capturing most of its essence. Xpulse 420 renders get colours from Xpulse 200 2V and 4V.New Hero Xpulse 420 Spied In Ladakh2024 Hero Xpulse 420 Rendered – Ready To Off-roadThe name is an amalgamation of existing Xpulse lineup and 420cc engine (rumoured) co-developed with Harley-Davidson. Harley-Davidson’s upcoming single-cylinder Roadster will get this engine first. HD-4XX was present on the number plate on Harley’s prototype.As opposed to the skinny Xpulse 200, our render of 2024 Xpulse 420 comes off as significantly substantial. It gets a bikini fairing which neatly integrates into the muscular fuel tank. They even cleverly double as tank shrouds or extensions as well. Neatly integrated into its fairing, is a sharp beak. There is a sleek LED headlight below a prominent windscreen. Height of this windscreen is adjustable too, accommodating riders of varied heights.Hero Xpulse 420cc – RenderThere is a scooped-out rider’s seat, which should establish a (relatively) lower seat height. A slightly stepped pillion seat is present too. and the rear subframe ends in a luggage rack, doubling as grab rail for pillions. A chunky up-swept exhaust will ensure respectable water-wading capability. The red-painted tubular frame adds a sporty touch.Hero Xpulse 420cc – RenderMonotone and Dual-tone Colours From Xpulse 2V and 4V2024 Hero Xpulse 420 gets USD front forks, seen on test mules. Front fork covers neatly integrate into the motorcycle’s front fenders. Wire-spoke wheels might be 21” front and 18” rear. We wish Hero offers fatter, tubeless tyres with the production version of larger Xpulse.Xpulse 420 branding on its fuel tank and Hero branding on its side body panels is in line with what the company had done with Xpulse 200. Colour combinations with Xpulse 420 match those offered with Xpulse 200. These are Matte Nexus Blue, Polestar Blue and Sports Red combinations from Xpulse 200 4V and Matte Green, Panther Black, White and Matte Grey from the now discontinued Xpulse 200 2V.Hero Xpulse 420cc – RenderHero MotoCorp and Harley-Davidson’s new 420cc – 450cc platform will spawn multiple new vehicles. Larger Xpulse will primarily lock its horns with KTM 390 ADV, BMW G310GS and upcoming Royal Enfield Himalyan 450. 2023 Hero Xpulse 420 could be priced aggressively in the range of Rs 3-4 lakh upon launch.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 FZ-S V3 Matte Black Is Back – Launch Price Rs 1.21 Lakh

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      The new change with Yamaha FZ-S V3 lineup is the Matte Black colour – Re-introduced after a long gapYamaha FZ-S V3 Matte BlackFZ lineup is the largest volume generator for the Japanese brand. In February 2023, FZ contributed 17,262 units and was the only one to register positive growth in MoM and YoY analysis. FZ lineup consists of V3 and newer V4 models. Only FZ V3 spawns regular and S variants, while the latter gets Deluxe sub-variant as well. Keeping the entry-level FZ lineup updated is key for Yamaha.Team Blue has reintroduced Matte Black colour with its ever-popular FZ-S V3. Only Standard variant of FZ-S V3 gets this new colour. Deluxe variants continue to get Metallic Black, Metallic Grey and Majesty Red shades. The new colour with Standard variants sit alongside Matte Red and Dark Matte Blue colours.Yamaha FZ-S V3 Matte Black Colour ReintroducedYamaha FZ-S V3 Matte Black costs Rs. 1,21,400 (ex-sh, Delhi). Price is similar to other colour shades offered with Standard variants. Yamaha had discontinued this colour some time ago but is now bringing it back to the table. FZ-S V3 doesn’t get any mechanical revisions. Componentry is retained too. Hat tip to Nikam Yamaha for sharing the update.The new Matte Black brings freshness to an existing colour palette. Matte Black shade is the dominant colour and gets contrasting silver finishes to add a dash of sophistication. More so, than Matte Red and Dark Matte Blue shades. Silver accents are present below tank shrouds, side body panel, front fender and exhaust cover. Gold-coloured rims are part of Deluxe variants only.2023 Yamaha FZS-FI PricesMechanically, it is the same ol’ Yamaha FZ that we are familiar with. The same 149cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine with a 2V head is present. It generates 12.2 bhp of power at 7,250 RPM and 13.3 Nm of torque at 5,500 RPM. It gets a 5-speed gearbox. FZ offers an upright riding position, perfect for its intended purpose as an entry-level street bike.Yamaha FZ-S V3 componentry includes conventional telescopic front forks, a 7-step adjustable rear mono-shock, a wide handlebar, 282 mm front and 220 mm rear disc brakes with single-channel ABS, 100/80-17 front and 140/60-17 rear tyres, and more. Seat height is 790 mm, kerb weight is 135 kg and fuel tank is 13L.Yamaha R3 and MT-03 InboundYamaha recently showcased their multi-cylinder lineup at a dealer event recently. YZF-R3, MT-03, MT-07 and MT-09 were showcased to dealers for feedback. Yamaha intends to bring some or all of these to India later this year.Hottest of the bunch are likely to be YZF-R3 and MT-03. Both these motorcycles get with a 321 cc parallel-twin motor capable of dishing out 42 PS of power at 10,750 RPM and 29.6 Nm of torque at 9,000 RPM. R3 weighs 169 kg and its naked counterpart MT-03 weighs 168 kg. Prices could be in the Rs 4-5 lakh range. More

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      Hero Xtreme 160R Spied With USD Front Forks – Pulsar NS160 Rival

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      Hero Xtreme 160R is currently priced in the range of Rs 1.18 lakh to Rs 1.3 lakh, ex-shHero Xtreme 160R USD Front Forks SpiedMajority of Hero’s sales are driven by budget commuters like Splendor, Super Splendor, Passion, Glamour and the likes. In premium 160cc commuter space, Hero has Xtreme 160R, which doesn’t sell as much as the company would have liked. Hero can change this around and turn the tides toward its favour by making key changes to this machine.New Hero Xtreme 160R USD Forks Launch SoonWe’re talking about decisive factors like the USD front forks which were recently introduced in rival Bajaj Pulsar NS160. Latest test mule of Xtreme 160R has been spotted with USD front forks, indicating that it might launch soon.Apart from USD forks, there are going to be new colours as well as certain design changes to establish an iterative change with 160R. These changes were hidden under the camouflage. That said, we could spot the presence of a muscular grab rail.What Will Be Continued From Outgoing Model?There are a lot of good bits about Hero Xtreme 160R that will be carried over to this upcoming update. For starters, Hero Xtreme 160R is a well-equipped motorcycle with LED headlights, LED turn indicators, hazard light function, LED tail lights with smoked effect housing, fully digital instrument cluster with negative LCD and gear position indicator, muscular design and more.Hero Xtreme 160R USD Front Forks SpiedOne of the highlights of Hero Xtreme 160R has been its lower kerb weight. At just 138 kg (for rear drum variant), it is one of the lightest motorcycles in the segment, second to only TVS Apache RTR 160 2V. With impeccable ride and dynamics already established, Hero seems to have a solid baseline on which this update might build on.Hero Xtreme 160R USD Front Forks SpiedAlso, the 163 cc single-cylinder engine making 15 bhp of power and 14 Nm of torque, mated to a 5-speed gearbox is likely to be carried over. Single-channel ABS with rear optional disc brake will also be carried over, instead of a dual-channel option.What Do We Expect From This Update?With the launch of Bajaj Pulsar NS160 with USD front forks, Hero doesn’t want to be left behind in offering its customers a good riding package. In comes Hero Xtreme 160R with USD front forks which will offer enhanced corner-carving capabilities. Expect prices of Hero Xtreme 160R USD variant to be higher by about Rs 5k-10k, than the current version.Hero Xtreme 160R USD Front Forks SpiedWe hope Hero offers the same instrument cluster as Xpulse 200, 200T and Xtreme 200S on Xtreme 160R. This enables Bluetooth connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation as well. There is a tiny possibility of Xtreme 160R getting promoted to 200cc class with upcoming Karizma’s 210cc engine, now that Hunk is being tested with the same 160cc engine. More

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      KTM 390 ADV X Launch Price Rs 2.8 L – Rs 58k Less Than Existing Variant

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      KTM 390 Adventure X gets the same 373cc engine, developing close to 43 bhp of power and 37 Nm of torqueKTM 390 Adventure X launched – Rs 58k more affordable than existing ADV 390Team Orange has introduced a new variant of its popular 390 Adventure model. It is called 390 Adventure X and sits below the Standard model in pricing and equipment. The Austrian brand has cut some corners to achieve this lower pricing. The high-performance single-cylinder engine doesn’t get any revisions.KTM 390 Adventure X – Less Features For Less MoneyThe new variant costs Rs. 2.8 lakh (ex-sh). This is an introductory price and is likely to change in the future. As opposed to Rs. 3.38 lakh for standard model with all the bells and whistles, 390 Adventure X costs Rs. 58,000 less (all prices ex-sh). Making it a tempting proposition for potential buyers.KTM PricesPricing is the most interesting factor in this development. KTM 390 Adventure X now costs Rs. 2.8 lakh (introductory, ex-sh). 390 Adventure X is now Rs. 58,000 less than standard model and Rs. 36,000 more than KTM 250 Adventure priced at Rs. 2.44 lakh. Bringing 250 Adventure to the equation lends new perspectives regarding this new lower-spec KTM 390 Adventure X.The company has not cut corners where it matters the most. Potential buyers can rejoice. The 373.27cc single-cylinder engine is untouched. It still makes 42.9 bhp of power at 9000 RPM and 37 Nm of torque at 7000 RPM. The 6-speed gearbox and primary cycle parts are carried over.Omissions to achieve a lower price point come in its equipment list. KTM 390 Adventure X is devoid of a slew of electronic aids. These include Traction Control System, Cornering ABS and a quick shifter. Dual-channel ABS (switchable rear) is retained with the newer model.LED lighting all-around, USD front forks, ride-by-wire, slipper and assist clutch, 320mm front with 4-pot caliper and 230 mm rear with 1-pot caliper brake setup, tubeless tyres, 19” front and 17” alloy wheel setup and 200 mm ground clearance are carried over. KTM 390 Adventure X may not get a TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity as seen on the regular 390 ADV. It could instead get a display unit from KTM 250 ADV.Value For Money Variant In KTM’s 390 LineupKTM 390 Adventure X will broaden the horizon for the brand, drawing in more buyers. A lower entry-level price point makes it a VFM proposition, considering everything it packs. It is currently the least expensive KTM offering with a 373cc engine. 390 Adventure X has a slew of rivals falling in similar ethos. Zontes 350T costs Rs. 3.67 lakh and BMW G 310 GS costs Rs. 3.2 lakh (all prices ex-sh, Delhi)Royal Enfield Himalayan and Yezdi Adventure cost less and pose better value. Pound-to-pound, both these vehicles are less performant than KTM 390 Adventure X. Colour options are Orange and Dark Galvano. Spoke Wheel Edition and Low Seat-Height Editions are likely to launch at a later date.Many prospective buyers will find the new lower-spec variant of 390 Adventure a tempting proposition. It is not sure whether KTM will implement a similar strategy with Duke and RC lineups. In contrast, 390 Duke costs Rs. 2.96 lakh and RC 390 costs Rs. 3.16 lakh (all prices ex-sh, Delhi). More

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      TVS Raider Single Seat Launched – Drum Variant Discontinued

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      TVS Raider is now available in single seat, split seat and SmartXonnect variant; prices start at Rs 93,7192023 TVS Raider Single SeatAiming to improve overall comfort and convenience, TVS has launched a single seat variant of Raider 125cc commuter bike. It is the new base-spec variant, around Rs 1,000 cheaper than the split seat variant that starts at Rs 94,719 (ex-sh, Delhi). Top-spec SmartXonnect variant, that also has split seats, is priced at Rs 1,00,820.Another update for TVS Raider is that the drum brake variant has been discontinued. It was the most affordable variant, available at a starting price of Rs 86,803. Mechanically, there are no change to TVS Raider.2023 TVS Raider Prices – April 2023TVS Raider single seat variantRaider’s single seat has the typical profile seen with other commuters in 125cc segment. Pillion seat section is slightly elevated, which helps achieve a sportier profile. This is especially true when compared to other commuters that have a completely flat seat design. TVS Raider has probably the most dynamic styling in its class. It competes with bikes like Honda SP125, Hero Glamour Xtec and Bajaj Pulsar 125.Primary motive for launching a single seat version of Raider is to improve the bike’s positioning as a commuter bike. While split seats are sportier, a single seat makes more practical sense. It can support a wide variety of cargo and families with children. With the single seat option for Raider, TVS should be able to target a larger customer base. Take a look at the detailed walkaround video shared by Motorbuddy channel.[embedded content][embedded content]The only limitation with Raider single seat is that it is available in just a single colour option of Striking Red. In comparison, the split seat variant is available in colour options of Fiery Yellow, Blazing Blue, Striking Red and Wicked Black. Top-spec SmartXonnect variant is available with colour options of Fiery Yellow and Wicked Black.TVS Raider single seat specsApart from the saddle, nothing else has changed for single seat Raider 125. Powering the bike is a 124.8cc, single cylinder, air and oil cooled motor that generates 11.4 PS of max power and 11.2 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. Raider offers best-in-class acceleration, with 0 to 60 kmph achieved in 5.9 seconds. Fuel efficiency is also improved with technologies such as engine start-stop and Ecothrust Fi.Suspension system comprises telescopic forks at front and gas-charged, 5-step adjustable monoshock unit at rear. TVS Raider 125 has 17-inch wheels at both ends, shod with 80/100 front and 100/90 rear tyres. With the drum variant discontinued, Raider has 240 mm disc at front and 130 mm drum at rear. Synchronized braking technology (SBT) is standard across all variants.While single seat and split seat variants of Raider have a reverse LCD screen, top-spec SmartXonnect has segment-first 5-inch TFT screen. Top-spec SmartXonnect variant is probably the most desirable, as it offers a range of features such as on-the-go call management, voice assist, weather updates, navigation, last parked location, ride report, service booking, etc. More

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      Ather 450X New Base Variant Launched – 450 Plus Discontinued

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      With the new affordable variant, Ather 450X will have improved competencies against rivals like TVS iQube S and Ola S1Ather Electric Scooter ProductionTo fulfil the needs of folks who may be looking for a no-frills electric scooter, Ather Energy has introduced a new base-spec variant of 450X. In Delhi where state subsidy is among the highest, Ather 450X new base variant is priced at Rs 98,079. Ather 450X with ProPack will cost Rs 1,28,443. These prices are around 10k to 15k lower in comparison to earlier prices of Ather electric scooters.Ather has also simplified its portfolio by discontinuing the 450 Plus variant. Customers can now choose either the standard 450X or the top-spec 450X ProPack. Both variants have the same hardware, but there are differences in terms of features, type of charger and warranty.Ather 450X New Prices April 2023Ather 450X new base variant features Vs Pro PackTo achieve an affordable price point, a significant number of advanced features are no longer available with the new base variant of Ather 450X. While the 7-inch touchscreen display is there, it comes in greyscale format. In comparison, top-spec 450X ProPack variant has a multi-colour display.450X base variant misses out on all of the connectivity features such as smartphone pairing, OTA updates, onboard maps and navigation, document storage, ride statistics, remote location tracking, remote charge monitoring, push location from Ather app and multi-stop trip planner.Ather 450x vs 450x Pro PackThere is no Bluetooth, 4G LTE Cat-4 /WCDMA / EDGE, music & calls, guide-me-home light, auto indicator off and time-based adaptive screen brightness and themes. Tyre pressure monitoring system, park assist and hill assist features are also not available with the new base variant of 450X. As compared to ride modes of Eco, Ride, Sports and Warp available with ProPack variant, the base variant gets a single default ride mode. Performance is comparable with Ride mode of ProPack variant.Another major difference is in charging time. While both variants have the same battery pack, the base variant comes with a slow charger. For a full charge, the new base variant will take 15 hours and 20 minutes. ProPack variant can achieve full charge in 5 hours 40 minutes.Another issue that users of base 450X will have to face is lack of access to Ather’s fast-charging network. This seems quite unfair, as it’s essentially denying users a visit to the fuel station. Moreover, base 450X users won’t have the option to upgrade to ProPack at a later date. All these factors are likely to nudge people into buying the ProPack version.In terms of warranty, both variants have 3 years/30,000 km cover for the vehicle and charger. However, for the battery, the warranty is 3 years/30,000 kms for base variant and 5 years/60,000 kms for ProPack variant of Ather 450X.Ather 450X new base variant specsMuch of the hardware specifications are the same for both base variant and ProPack variant of Ather 450X. Installed battery capacity is 3.7 kWh, with peak power output of 6.4 kW and max torque of 26 Nm. Top-speed is 90 kmph and 0 to 40 kmph is achieved in 3.3 seconds. Range of 146 km is same for both variants. Gradeability is 20 degrees. Other hardware like lighting setup, wheels, braking system, suspension, etc. are same for both variants. More