More stories

  • in

    2023 Bajaj Chetak Electric Scooter Launch Soon – 18 Km More Range

    For MY2023, new Bajaj Chetak Premium homologated packs in similar numbers as before – 4.2 kW of peak power and 20 Nm of torqueBajaj Chetak Electric ScooterBajaj was one of the default choices in the scooter segment back in the day. Fast forward to 2023, Bajaj has 0 presence in the ICE scooter segment, after pulling the plug on Kristal DTSi 95cc. Bajaj made re-entry into the scooter segment with the launch of Chetak Electric scooter. In 2022, Bajaj managed to sell close to 30,000 units of Chetak in India. In 2023, that number is expected to double.But before that, Bajaj is getting ready to update Chetak. It has now type-approved a new variant for 2023. With the new Bajaj Chetak Premium homologated, one can expect more range. Battery capacity is still the same. But, there seem to be subtle changes in software and controller algorithms facilitating more range out of the same battery. This should be enough for visible gains in range from a single charge.2023 Bajaj Chetak Electric ScooterLast year, we reported a power bump in Chetak. It was homologated in December 2021. There used to be two variants on offer with Bajaj Chetak, Urbane and Premium. This new type approval document mentions Chetak’s Premium variant only. This variant is mentioned as the base variant and is named Chetak 2423 Premium.In the previous type approval document, Both Chetak 2413 Premium and Chetak 2413 Urbane variants were listed with Premium being the base model. For MY2023 new Bajaj Chetak seems to be codenamed 2423 and only the Premium variant will be on offer. Battery specifications are still the same as before. We’re looking at a 50.4 V 57.24 Ah battery as before. This calculates to 2.884 kWh of battery energy, out of which 2.480 kWh is usable. Battery alone weighs 24.5 kg.2023 Bajaj Chetak Homologated – Launch SoonGVW for Bajaj Chetak is 283 kg, same as before. This should mean kerb weight is still 133 kg. Motor seems to be the same too with 4.2 kW of peak power and 4.0 kW of continuous power. On the surface, everything seems to be similar to the outgoing model. That said, with the new Bajaj Chetak homologated, Bajaj has provided where it counts. In its range. New model should go 108 km before needing a charge, as opposed to 90 km (Eco Mode) and 80 Km (Sports Mode) range with the outgoing model. Both indicated range were certified by AIS 040.Dimensions & PriceNew Bajaj Chetak is identical to the outgoing model in terms of dimensions. Since there are minimal changes, we hope Chetak retains its strengths like its metallic body, IP67-rated battery, 12” alloys with tubeless tyres, soft-touch switchgear with back-lighting, 18L boot space, 4L glove box, LED lighting, and keyless functionality.In keeping with competition like Ather, Ola, TVS iQube and Hero Vida, we hope Bajaj offers a TFT touchscreen display with Chetak 2423 Premium. Bajaj needs to focus more on attracting a younger tech-savvy audience with a host of features and gimmicks. A revamp of the company website providing thorough details about its product as easily as possible is necessary too.Pricing for the new Bajaj Chetak 2023 model should be identical to the outgoing model. Which is Rs. 1,54,189 (ex-sh) and is offered in 4 shades. They are Brooklyn Black, Hazel Nut, Indigo Metallic and Velluto Rosso. Launch might be very soon. As per Urbane variant, there is a possibility of it being reintroduced with the above-mentioned features and gimmicks in the future. More

  • in

    2023 Honda Scoopy Debuts – Gets Activa Like Smart Key, New Colours

    2023 Honda Scoopy retro scooter makes 9 bhp and 9.3 Nm from its 109.5 cc engine2023 Honda ScoopyScoopy is a neo-retro scooter from Honda, which is on sale in many South East Asian countries. It has even been patented in India, as Honda might be toying with the idea of launching Scoopy in India. Ahead of that, Honda has updated the Scoopy scooter to 2023 model year with new features and colour options.In Indonesia, Honda Scoopy is in its fifth generation. It is offered in four different trims namely Sporty, Fashion, Prestige and Stylish. The main highlight of Honda Scoopy is its design. Especially at the front where a large headlight assembly lies in its apron.2023 Honda Scoopy DebutsIt consists of a large projector unit, like a jewel held in an oval casing. Turn indicators are shaped like water droplets flanking the headlight assembly in an encircling fashion. On top of this apron is a small protruding element housing Scoopy’s instrument console. Round ORVMs add to its overall retro appeal.Behind this apron is a storage area including a USB charger for smartphones. It gets Honda’s new smart key that recently debuted in India with Activa on top-spec trim. Side body panels are reminiscent of scooters of the past and blend in neatly with the overall design of Honda Scoopy. There are a total of 8 colours offered with 2023 Honda Scoopy.2023 Honda ScoopyWith dual-tone shades, Honda offers a contrasting seat, floorboard, apron plastic and decals on side body panels. At the back, we get similar turn indicators like we saw at front engulfing a circular tail light housing. Rear grab handle is neatly designed too and flows with seat contour. Chrome-finished exhaust heat guard adds to its retro vibes.2023 Honda ScoopySpecs & FeaturesComponentry for Honda Scoopy is very similar to that of Activa’s. Front telescopic forks, rear single shock absorber, single-sided swingarm, 12” to 14” wheels, swingarm-mounted engine and more. Honda Scoopy gets front disc brakes and drum unit at the rear. With 4.5L fuel in the tank, Scoopy weighs just 95 kg. Updated 2023 Scoopy now gets Smart Key, a feature which was recently launched in India with the new Honda Activa.Honda Scoopy retro scooter is powered by a 109.5 cc single-cylinder engine, mostly similar to Activa 6G’s in India. Because it is EURO 3 emission compliant and not EURO 6 (similar to BS6 in India), Scoopy makes 9 bhp of power and 9.3 Nm of torque. Activa 6G’s numbers tip the scale at just 7.68 bhp and 8.84 Nm.2023 Honda ScoopyHonda has a premium scooter in its range in the form of Grazia. As seen in December 2022, Honda Grazia sold slightly over 2.5K units, whereas Activa sold 175K units. Honda’s premium scooter offering for India needs more finesse and drama. Something which Honda Scoopy retro scooter has in abundance. We hope Honda considers launching this in India replacing Grazia. More

  • in

    New Suzuki Gixxer At Dealer Showroom – First Look Walkaround

    New 2023 Gixxer 250 and Gixxer series now come in with Suzuki Ride Connect with a Bluetooth-enabled digital console2023 Suzuki Gixxer New Colours WalkaroundSuzuki 2W sales in Jan 2023 stood at 66,209 units in domestic markets while exports were at 18,757 units made their way to export markets thus taking total sales to 84,966 units. This related to a YoY growth of 21.47 percent. Majority of Suzuki sales are thanks to their scooters Access, Avenis, Burgman.Suzuki’s Gixxer range of motorcycles are popular models in the company lineup. They see decent sales not only in domestic markets but also contribute heavily to Suzuki exports from India. From February 2023, Suzuki Motorcycle India has updated the Gixxer range so as to add more appeal to buyers.New Suzuki Gixxer First LookSuzuki Gixxer range currently includes four variants – Gixxer, Gixxer SF, Gixxer 250 and Gixxer 250 SF. This entire range now gets new colour schemes and Suzuki Ride Connect feature which is now offered as standard. The 2023 Gixxer SF250 now sports Metallic Matte Stellar Blue, Metallic Matte Black No.2 and Metallic Sonic Silver/ Metallic Triton Blue colours.Gixxer 250 is being offered in colours of Metallic Matte Stellar Blue and Metallic Matte Black No.2. Colour schemes on the Gixxer Series include Metallic Sonic Silver/ Pearl Blaze Orange, Metallic Triton Blue and Glass Sparkle Black. Below is a first look walkaround of the new 2023 Suzuki Gixxer, credited to MRD Vlogs.[embedded content][embedded content]Suzuki has also increased prices across the Gixxer range. The Gixxer is priced at Rs 1,40,500, SF is priced at Rs 1,45,000 while the Gixxer 250 carries a price tag of Rs 1,95,000. The Gixxer SF 250 in metallic matte stellar blue and metallic matte black No. 2 is priced at Rs 2,02,000 while Gixxer SF 250 in metallic sonic silver and metallic triton blue is priced higher at Rs 2,02,500 (all prices ex-showroom).  This price hike is by Rs 5,700 on the Gixxer 150 going up to Rs 8,500 on Gixxer SF 150 while Gixxer 250 is priced higher by Rs 13,600. Top of the line Gixxer SF 250 is now higher by Rs 10,400. Gixxer and Gixxer 250 are naked street bikes. Gixxer SF and Gixxer SF 250 on the other hand are faired sport bikes.Suzuki Ride Connect FeatureTo further enhance the riding experience, the company is offering Ride Connect feature across the Gixxer range. This connectivity feature comes with a Bluetooth enabled digital console. The application can be synced to the user’s smartphone to offer features such as turn by turn navigation, incoming call, SMS and WhatsApp alerts and missed call alerts. It also indicates speed exceeding warning, level of phone battery and estimated time of arrival. The App is available Android as well as iOS devices.Suzuki Gixxer is powered by a 155cc engine offering 13.41 hp power and 13.8 Nm torque mated to a 5 speed gearbox. The Gixxer 250 series gets a 249cc engine capable of 26.13 hp power and 22.2 Nm torque mated to a 6 speed gearbox. Gixxer and Gixxer SF continue to compete with the Bajaj Pulsar 160 NS, TVS Apache RTR 160, Honda X-Blade, Yamaha FZS and Hero Xtreme 160R. Gixxer 250 takes on Yamaha FZ-25 and KTM Duke 250 in its segment. More

  • in

    Harley Davidson Motorcycle Auctioned For $935k (Rs 7.7 Crore)

    Vintage Harley Davidson motorcycle has just been auctioned for a record amount of USD 953,000 – about INR 7.73 croreHarley Davidson 1908 Strap Tank – Record Auction1908 Harley Davidson Strap Tank motorcycle fetched a record sum at an auction, making it the most expensive motorcycle ever. If you are wondering, how did it manage to fetch such a huge price? Well, this is one of 450 motorcycles Harley Davidson manufactured in 1908. Of those, about 10-12 motorcycles survive today. And the fact that this motorcycle is more than 110 years old, and in working condition.It is called Strap Tank because it has its oil and fuel tank strapped to its frame with nickel straps. This particular Strap Tank model is a 1908 model year. It wears the Engine no. 2241, Carburetor no. 1049. It has been restored by Paul Freehill.1908 Harley Davidson MotorcycleAlong with this one being a vintage, and a rare machine, it was also the one with genuine parts – which helped fetch record price. For example, a HD Strap Tank from 1907 was auctioned in 2015 which garnered $ 715,000 (approx Rs. 5.91 crore) after auction fees.The one recently sold was completely genuine and was not made up of a combination of various parts. Which is why it managed to fetch more money. Just like other Strap Tanks, this one was also built in Harley-Davidson’s original one-storey factory.Harley Davidson 1908 Strap Tank – Most expensive motorcycleThe one auctioned in 2015 was not restored to its original condition. Whereas the record-setting 1908 model garnered $ 935,000 (approx Rs. 7.73 crore) after auction fees. Making it a rarer find. Parts including its wheels, engine belt-pulley, muffler sleeve, seat cover and even its fuel and oil tank were declared authentic.Harley Davidson 1908 Strap TankHistoric ModelStrap Tanks are a rare find as all of them are now either destroyed or possessed by private collectors. Record-setting 1908 Strap Tank was sold by Mecum Auction in Las Vegas, Nevada. Strap Tank is considered to be one of the earliest models from Harley-Davidson, hence the demand.Founded in 1903, Harley-Davidson is one of the only two American motorcycle companies to survive the great depression. Another is its arch-rival Indian Motorcycles. Both companies have stood the test of time and have evolved to compete at the highest level in America with Japanese and European offerings.Harley Davidson 1908 Strap TankVintage motorcycles have a place in most private collectors’ hearts. Previously, we had Vincent Black Lightning auctioned for $ 929,000 at Bonhams Auction in Las Vegas in 2018 as the record holder. Speaking of Vincent, Bajaj has trademarked Vincent name in India. Which is likely to spawn a lineup of classic motorcycles to rival Royal Enfield. More

  • in

    2023 Yamaha FZS, R15, MT-15, FZX Launched – Official Prices

    With cosmetic and functional updates, new 2023 Yamaha FZ-S, R15, MT-15 and FZ-X are now priced higher than before2023 Yamaha FZS V4Yamaha’s strategy to offer optimal value to enthusiasts at a competitive price point continues with 2023 versions of R15, MT-15, FZ-S and FZ-X. All four bikes get a different set of updates, aimed at improving their street presence, convenience and safety aspects.However, performance numbers remain unchanged, as the bikes will continue with the same engines as earlier. New 2023 Yamaha R15, MT-15, FZ-S and FZ-X will be OBD-2 compliant, which comes into effect from April 01, 2023. These bikes will be fitted with on-board diagnostic system that can monitor and report emissions in real-time. Traction control system is now standard.2023 Yamaha Motorcycles – New PricesNew 2023 Yamaha FZ-X and FZ-S V4Safety has been improved with introduction of dual-channel ABS on the new FZ-X 2023 model. Cosmetic updates for FZ-X include a new matte blue colour. It appears to be similar to one of the options offered with existing YZF-R15 V4. Overall styling has been further enhanced with golden coloured wheels.2023 Yamaha FZ-X – priced from Rs 1.36 lakh, ex-shExisting FZ-X has colour options of matte black, matte copper and metallic blue. There are no engine tweaks for 2023 FZ-X. The bike is powered by a 149cc, air cooled engine that makes 12.4 PS and 13.3 Nm. It is paired with a 5-speed gearbox. 2023 Yamaha FZ-S now gets a much brighter headlight, LED blinkers, new colours, traction control system, digital instrument cluster.2023 Yamaha FZ-S Version 4.0 – Priced from Rs 1.27 lakh, ex-shNew 2023 Yamaha R15, MT-15Key updates for Yamaha R15 include LED turn signals. With this, R15 now has an all-LED lighting setup. The existing version already has LED bi-functional headlight, LED position lights and LED brake / tail light.2023 Yamaha R15 M Launch price Rs 1.94 lakhYamaha R15M variant has been updated with a new TFT instrument console that displays a range of information. The resolution seems much better and layout and placement of indicators has also changed. Switchgear has also been improved to ensure easy access to various functions of the instrument screen.Cosmetic enhancements for R15 include a new dual-tone colour theme of matte black and gold. The bike gets golden highlights against a black and light grey body panelling. Overall look and feel is a lot sportier with golden USD forks and golden shaded wheels. The new colour for R15 will be in addition to the existing colour options of dark knight, metallic red and racing blue.2023 Yamaha MT15 V2 Launch price Rs 1.68 lakhUpdates for MT-15 V2 include LED turn signals and dual-channel ABS. The current model has halogen turn signals and single-channel ABS. Visual updates include a new colour scheme of gloss black and red. Golden USD forks create a sporty profile in combination with the red coloured wheels and blacked-out components.Existing MT-15 is offered in colour options of ice fluo-vermillion, metallic black, racing blue, cyan storm and Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Edition. Yamaha R15 and MT-15 share the same 155cc, liquid cooled engine that churns out 18.4 PS of max power and 14.2 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. More

  • in

    New Keeway 125cc Cruiser With V Twin Debuts – India Bound?

    The V-twin engine on Keeway V-Cruise 125 makes 13.7 bhp of power and 14.4 Nm of torque – Gets liquid coolingNew Keeway 125cc CruiserKeeway is a Hungarian motorcycle brand which is owned by China’s QJ Motor. Keeway motorcycles have been launched in India via AARI (Aadishwar Auto Ride India), who also sell other motorcycle brands alongside, like Benelli, QJ and Moto Morini bikes.Now, Keeway has launched a new 125cc motorcycle, called V-Cruise 125. This is a 125cc equipped cruiser motorcycle with a V-twin engine. Yes. A V-Twin. In the grand scheme of things, Keeway V-Cruise 125 is a rebadged Benda motorcycle, a Chinese upstart bike maker.New Keeway V-Cruise 125This is a similar strategy Keeway and Benda had applied for the V302 C cruiser, which is on sale in India for Rs 3.89 lakh, ex-sh. Though a Benda product, it is marketed as a Keeway motorcycle in select countries, including India. Now, Benda’s V-Cruise 125 has been launched as Keeway V-Cruise 125 in select markets.If parked side-by-side, there is hardly any difference between V302 C and V-Cruise 125 in terms of design. Except for V-Cruise branding on V-Cruise 125 and 302 branding on V302 C. The slotted brake rotors with 300mm disc at front and 240 mm disc at the rear, front USD forks, rear telescopic shock absorbers, seat, 15L fuel tank, handlebars, instrument console, round headlight, engine block size, chassis, radiator at front, bar-end mirrors, everything.New Keeway 125cc CruiserNot just that, alloy wheels, exhaust routing and end can, battery box cover, branding on fuel tank, front and rear fenders, subframe, round protruding tail light, number plate holder and turn indicators at the front and rear are all identical. Even the tyres and colour options are identical too.When everything about Keeway V-Cruise 125 was similar to its bigger brother V302 C, we took a look at their dimensions. Take a guess at the result. If you thought they were identical, you’re bang on. Measuring 2.12 m in length, 0.8 m in width, 1.05 m in height and with a seat height of 0.69 m, both are identical.Engine & SpecsWhere they differ is in kerb weight as V3102C weighs in at 167 kg, while V-Cruise weighs 140 kg. Even though braking hardware is similar, only V302C gets dual-channel ABS, while V-Cruise 125 has to do with CBS.Differentiation continues with performance figures. Donning a larger engine, Keeway V302C makes 29.09 bhp of power and 26.5 Nm of torque. Keeway V-Cruise 125 makes just 13.7 bhp of power and 14.4 Nm of torque. Given that cycle parts are identical, Keeway might consider launching this in India too. This will complete Keeway’s cruiser lineup in India consisting of 125cc (Keeway V-Cruise 125), 250cc (Keeway K-Light 250V) and 300cc (Keeway V302C). More

  • in

    Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 Exhaust Note Sound – New Spy Video

    With its aggressive styling and improved performance, Himalayan 450 is expected to emerge as a more popular choice than the existing 411cc modelRoyal Enfield Himalayan 450 Exhaust NoteRoyal Enfield has been making the right moves in its evolution, which has helped the company to maintain a sizeable lead over rivals. After establishing its dominance in 350cc and 650cc space, Royal Enfield is now focusing on 450cc segment.It is expected that the first 450cc bike from Royal Enfield will be Himalayan 450. It was spied recently and appears to be in production-ready form. Apart from Himalayan, Royal Enfield’s 450cc range will also have Hunter 450, a cafe-racer, tourer and a scrambler.Himalayan 450 exhaust note, featuresWith its new bikes, Royal Enfield has been working to improve the aural experience. Instead of the typical loud dug-dug sound, new RE bikes have a more refined exhaust note. This is applicable for Himalayan 450 as well. While the throaty feel is still there, the output is more restrained and mellowed. At higher revs, the exhaust note sounds even smoother.Although it shares the same name, Himalayan 450 is a lot different from existing 411cc Himalayan. It comes across as more agile, which implies that the bike can be used for both commuting and touring needs. It is not burdened by the bulky-looking racks that existing Himalayan has. Some key highlights include high-mounted secondary fender, compact windscreen, round headlamp, circular rear-view mirrors, sleek turn signals, curvy fuel tank and stubby exhaust.[embedded content][embedded content]Himalayan 450 has a new circular instrument display, which could be an LCD or TFT screen. This update has helped reduce clutter in the cockpit area. The screen is fairly large and should be able to display a wide range of information. Another advantage is that the screen is positioned at almost 90° angle. This will ensure that users don’t have to take their eyes off the road when looking at the instrument console.Himalayan 450 has relaxed ergonomics with raised handlebar and centrally placed footpegs. Rider seat height is quite low, which should ensure improved balance and handling. The bike is also designed in a way that makes it easier to ride standing up.Himalayan 450 performance, specsHimalayan 450 is expected to deliver around 35 bhp of max power and 40 Nm of peak torque. Royal Enfield is likely to aim at achieving a level of performance that either matches or exceeds numbers of rivals. Himalayan 450 will go up against the likes of KTM 390 Adventure and upcoming Hero XPulse 400. The engine onboard Himalayan 450 will have a 6-speed gearbox. It is expected to get liquid cooling.Test mules of Himalayan 450 have been spotted with USD front forks from Showa. However, these don’t seem to have an adjustability function for rebound and compression. At rear, the bike has monoshock suspension. It has disc brakes at both ends and is expected to get dual-channel switchable ABS. Himalayan 450 could get advanced features such as ride modes and ride-by-wire system. More

  • in

    Top 10 150cc To 200cc Motorcycles Dec 2022 – Pulsar, Apache, R15, MT15, KTM

    Motorcycle sales in the 150-200cc segment has posted a YoY and MoM de-growth in Dec 2022 with most models in the redBajaj PulsarLackluster sales were seen for motorcycles in this 150-200cc segment as most models have witnessed a substantial decline. Sales in this segment dipped 18.81 percent on a YoY basis to 95,658 units in Dec 2022 down from 1,17,824 units in Dec 2021. This was a 22,166 unit volume de-growth. MoM sales also fell significantly by 15.63 percent from 1,13,380 units sold in Nov 2022.Leading the list was Bajaj Pulsar with a 1.86 percent YoY de-growth to 33,804 units, down from 34,445 units sold in Dec 2021. There was however, a 24.77 percent MoM growth from 27,092 units sold in Nov 2022. It may be recalled that in Nov 2022, the Pulsar was at No.3 on this list with the Unicorn and Apache taking top 2 spots. Market share of Bajaj Pulsar in this range currently stands at 35.34 percent up from 23.89 percent held in Nov 2022.Top 10 150cc To 200cc Motorcycles Dec 2022TVS Apache was at No. 2 with 22,181 units sold in Dec 2022. This was a 5.75 percent YoY de-growth from 23,533 units sold in Dec 2021 while MoM sales fell by 18.22 percent over 27,122 units sold in Nov 2022. At the 3rd spot was the Unicorn with YoY and MoM degrowth of 10.82 percent and 39.66 percent respectively. Sales which had stood at 28,729 units in Nov 2022 and at 19,321 units in Dec 2021 dipped even further to 17,335 units in Dec 2022.It was also a de-growth in YoY and MoM sales for the Yamaha R15. Sales dipped 23.74 percent YoY to 6,827 units in Dec 2022, down from 8,952 units sold in Dec 2021. MoM sales fell by 8.08 percent from 7,427 units sold in Nov 2022. Yamaha FZ sales fell 69.16 percent YoY to 6,103 units in Dec 2022 from 19,790 units sold in Dec 2021. MoM performance was no better, down 23.60 percent from 7,988 units sold in Nov 2022.150cc to 200cc Motorcycle Sales Dec 2022 vs Dec 2021 – YoY AnalysisEven as sales of the Yamaha MT15 and KTM 200 improved on a YoY basis by 84.91 percent and 16.87 percent respectively to 3,247 units and 1,794 units sold in Dec 2022, MoM performance remained low. MT15 sales dipped 48.75 percent from 6,335 units sold in Nov 2022 while KTM 200 sales fell by 21.76 percent as compared to 2,293 units sold in Nov 2022.Xtreme 160R, XPulse 200, Avenger Sales Dec 2022All other motorcycles on this list saw YoY degrowth. Xtreme 160R / 200 sales dipped 24.81 percent YoY to 1,400 units from 1,862 units sold in Dec 2021. It however performed better on a MoM basis, up by 17.06 percent from 1,196 units sold in Nov 2022.It was the same story for Xpulse 200 which saw its YoY sales down by 64.65 percent to 896 units in Dec 2022 from 2,535 units sold in Dec 2021. MoM sales showed better performance up 53.95 percent over 582 units sold in Nov 2022.150cc to 200cc Motorcycle Sales Dec 2022 vs Nov 2022 – MoM AnalysisBajaj Avenger (782 units) suffered a YoY and MoM de-growth while Hornet 2.0 (681 units) and XBlade (373 units) suffered a MoM de-growth. There was also the recently launched Kawasaki W175 bike with 224 units sold in Dec 2022. This newcomer to this segment is powered by a 177cc single cylinder engine that makes 13 hp power and 13.2 Nm torque and mated to a 5 speed gearbox. In the last two positions were the Gixxer (11 units) and CB200X (0 units) sold in Dec 2022. More