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    Royal Enfield Himalayan 650 Render In 8 Colours – A New Global Sensation?

    Royal Enfield Himalayan 650 RenderRoyal Enfield Himalayan 650 will rival middle-weight ADVs like Benelli TRK 502, Kawasaki Versys 650, Suzuki V-Strom 650 and others
    Iconic motorcycle manufacturer, Royal Enfield, is known to have an extensive lineup of upcoming motorcycles in the pipeline. The company is even making advances in electric vehicle segment as well. Within their 650cc lineup, a new development in the form of Himalayan 650 is making waves in India’s motorcycle fraternity.
    Himalayan 650 has commenced testing and the first-ever test mule was spied some time ago. This is by far the most impressive development from Royal Enfield stables and is likely to be a global sensation. Ahead of launch, we present to you render of Himalayan 650, incorporating all the elements seen on a recent test mule.
    Royal Enfield Himalayan 650 Render
    Royal Enfield Himalayan 650 Rendered
    Inspired by the first-ever Royal Enfield Himalayan 650 spy shot, rendering artist Pratyush Rout has penned down a digital render of this upcoming ADV. Unlike the Himalayan 411 and the new Himalayan 450, upcoming Royal Enfield Himalayan 650 is more of a tourer and less of an off-roader.
    We can see this in smaller wheels at the front instead of 21-inches we saw with current and preceding Himalayan models. There seems to be a semi-fairing setup around the fuel tank. This should cut through air more efficiently offering decent wind protection for the long hauls. Thus increasing this platform’s versatility.
    Royal Enfield Himalayan 650 Render
    Our render has captured this essence and we can see a touring-friendly motorcycle setup with a semi-fairing and smaller wheels than 21-inches at the front. We have incorporated chunkier side body panels for added muscle, expected with an ADV of this displacement class. This render also has the same circular LED headlights and Tripper Dash TFT screen with Google Maps.
    Royal Enfield Himalayan 650 Render
    Looking at componentry, Himalayan 650 will be the most kitted-out 650cc Royal Enfield motorcycle ever made. For starters, it has USD telescopic front forks and a mono-shock setup at the rear. Which is a first-ever for any 650cc RE. Himalayan 650 is also spotted with dual petal discs at the front, a first for any Royal Enfield.
    When will it launch?
    As seen in the render, Royal Enfield Himalayan 650 will sit on a similar platform as Himalayan 450 with similar mainframe and subframes. Seating layout looks similar too and it gets the same luggage mounting points, offering a lot of convenience for riders. There is a single exhaust setup that looks similar to 450’s unit, but more up-swept for improved water wading.
    Royal Enfield Himalayan 650 Render
    Powertrain-wise, Himalayan 650 rendered, will come equipped with the same 648cc parallel-twin oil-cooled engine with around 46 horses and 52 torques. There might be a unique character with engine tuning, to suit ADV genre. Launch is likely to happen next year. More

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    2024 Honda CB350 Classic Launched In Japan – Gets New Colours

    Honda CB350 Classic Japan LaunchHonda offers the CB350 lineup in three different characters in India – CB350 (Classic), H’ness CB350 and CB350 RS
    In a bid to take on the segment leader, Royal Enfield Classic 350, Honda Motorcycles and Scooters (HMSI) launched their new CB350 (Classic) in India. With similar design attributes as Classic 350, like literally taking on the rival. Now, the same model will be shipped to Japan where it will be launched as GB350 C.
    Where C stands for Classic, denoting its retro looks rather than its siblings. Speaking of, Honda exports made-in-India CB350 to Japan as GB350 and CB350 RS as GB350 S. The new GB350 C for the Japanese market was announced late last year and now, the prices have been announced with a definitive launch date.
    Honda CB350 Classic Japan-Spec – Puko Blue
    Honda CB350 Classic Japan Price
    Legacy motorcycle manufacturer, Honda, has just announced the prices of its new CB350 (Classic) for Japanese market where it will be launched as GB350 C. The company will launch it in Japan on October 10th for a price of JPY 668,800 (including tax). This turns out to be around Rs 4 lakh with today’s conversion rates.
    For context, Honda CB350 (Classic) in India costs Rs 2.28 lakh (Ex-sh). In Japan, GB350 S will get two colour options Gun Metal Black Metallic and Puko Blue. These colours are unique and are not available in India.
    Honda CB350 Classic Japan-Spec – Puko Blue
    Speaking of, India-spec Honda CB350 (Classic) gets a colour palette including five shades – Pearl Igneous Black, Mat Marshall Green Metallic, Mat Dune Brown, Mat Crust Metallic and Precious Red Metallic. Both the colours for Japan-spec model get a Brown seat cover for a dual-tone effect.
    We wish HMSI launched the same colours as Japan-spec model in India to boost sales against Royal Enfield which also received fresh colours with MY24 update. Other than the new colours, there are no changes when compared to India-spec model. Thus retaining the retro classic vibes.
    Honda CB350 Classic Japan-Spec – Gun Metal Black Metallic
    Specs and Features
    Powering Honda H’Ness CB350 is a 348cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine that churns out 20.7 bhp of peak power at 5,500 RPM and peak torque of 29.4 Nm at 3,000 RPM. This motor is mated to a slick-shifting 5-speed gearbox. Hardware setup of the bike comprises a double-cradle frame that is suspended on conventional telescopic forks and dual shock absorbers at the rear.
    Braking duties are handled by a 310mm disc brake in front and a 240mm disc at rear which are assisted by a dual-channel ABS as standard. The CB350 range is currently retailed exclusively through Honda’s BigWing showrooms which are limited to only certain centres across the country. Honda CB350 competes against other modern classic motorcycles like Royal Enfield Classic 350, Jawa Forty Two and Benelli Imperiale 400.
    Honda CB350 Classic Japan-Spec – Gun Metal Black Metallic
    Rest of the equipment on this Honda motorcycle remains identical which includes features like a semi-digital instrument cluster, full LED lighting, a side-stand with engine inhibitor and Honda Selectable Torque Control. It offers a fuel tank capacity of 15 litres and tips the weighing scales at 181 kg. More

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    Upcoming Revolt AW1 Specs, Features Leaked Ahead Of September 17th Launch

    Upcoming Revolt AW1 or RV1Expanding the brand’s portfolio, upcoming Revolt AW1 or RV1 will rival electric motorcycles from Tork Motors, Oben, Pure EV and Ola
    Now that electric scooters have seen greater acceptance, many companies are shifting focus to electric motorcycles to gain some head start. Revolt electric motorcycle brand is poised to introduce a new affordable motorcycle on 17th September. Called AW1, specs and features are not leaked ahead of launch. Let’s see what’s what.
    Upcoming Revolt AW1
    Ola Electric recently unveiled Roadster range of motorcycles. Shedding light on the rising electric motorcycle segment. However, Revolt has been one of, if not, the oldest player in electric motorcycle genre in India. Currently, Revolt offers RV400 and RV400 BRZ electric motorcycles and AW1 will be the third.
    Upcoming Revolt AW1 Leaked Features
    AW1 stands for “Are We One”. The leaked internal presentation from Revolt shows that this upcoming motorcycle will be called AW1. But going by Rovolt’s current lineup and naming strategy, we reckon it will be called, RV1. As in, Are We One, denoted by the company’s teasers on the website.
    What does it get?
    Leaked company’s internal presentation shows a street-style motorcycle silhouette with a neo-retro twist. We get round headlights with circular LED DRLs, futuristic side-body panels similar to RV400 and a commuter-ish subframe and rear section. There is a long seat as well, which should appeal to target audience.
    Upcoming Revolt AW1 Leaked Accessories
    When compared to RV400, upcoming Revolt AW1 or RV1 offers RSU telescopic front forks, twin shock absorbers and the main highlight is that AW1 or RV1 loses the fancy belt drive for a cheaper chain-drive setup. Because chain drive needs frequent maintenance, there is a centre stand offered as part of accessories.
    other accessories include a sturdier grab rail with mount, a leg guard and a headlight visor. There will be two variants of AW1 – V1 and V2. Battery size is 2.2 kWh with V1 promising 100+ km range on a single charge and 3.24 kWh with V2, promising 150 km of range. There might be a sole 2 kW (2.682 bhp) mid-mounted electric motor with reverse mode.
    Upcoming Revolt AW1 Leaked Specs
    What to expect?
    Currently, Revolt’s most affordable model is RV400 BRZ and it costs Rs 1,02,250 (Effective ex-sh). As per the leaked presentation, we can see the expected features and specifications of Revolt AW1 or RV1 and it is a lower-spec vehicle when compared to the RV400 currently on sale. Revolt AW1 is getting a combination lock, integrating ignition and handle-lock in one along with an integrated storage for charger.
    Revolt might strike a price point of well below Rs 1 lakh. Maybe around Rs 80,000 or even undercut Ola Roadster X priced at Rs 75,000 (prices effective ex-sh). For the price, Revolt has curated an experience that is a notch below what the company has been offering with RV400.
    Revolt RV400 BRZ, For Reference More

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    Yamaha Electric Motorcycle Patented – Fully Faired Bike, Air Cooled

    Yamaha Electric Bike Concept – Image for illustration onlyBased on patent images, it seems like Yamaha is focusing on technologies that are future proof and relatively affordable
    In the quest for an electric motorcycle, Yamaha has filed a patent for a new high-performance electric motorcycle. Earlier also, Yamaha had showcased the PES1 concept and PES2 concept electric motorcycles in 2013 and 2015, respectively. The company may be ready with the technology and waiting only for the right market conditions to start commercial production.
    Yamaha electric motorcycle – Air cooled, not liquid cooled
    There are many interesting bits about Yamaha’s patented electric motorcycle. One of the key features is an air-cooled system for the electric powertrain. The motorcycle has a uniquely designed battery case that appears to be the focus of the patent filed. Yamaha has chosen to use an air-cooled setup, instead of the liquid cooled system seen with high-performance electric motorcycles. Since an air-cooled setup is relatively less complex, it can help reduce production costs. It will also help reduce the weight of the motorcycle.
    Yamaha Electric Motorcycle Patented
    Liquid cooling also has advantages such as achieving the most appropriate temperature for the electric powertrain to operate. That means heating in cold conditions and cooling in warm conditions. But a liquid cooling system is a lot more complex and requires additional supporting components. For example, a liquid cooling system will need parts like pipework, radiators, sensors and pumps.
    Such dependencies are eliminated with an air-cooled system, even though it may not be as efficient as a liquid cooled setup. Yamaha may have opted for an air-cooled setup also because the next generations of battery packs are expected to be more resistant to low and high temperatures. As such, even an air-cooled system should be adequate for managing the temperature of the electric powertrain.
    Yamaha Electric Motorcycle Patented
    Unique battery case
    Yamaha has chosen a unique design for the battery case to achieve better space utilization and improved heat dissipation. There’s a large centre casting, along with upper and lower sections that are tub-shaped. As the seams have been minimized, the battery case is more resistant to water ingress. The battery case has four internal platforms and each of these have two battery packs.
    The platforms have fins on the underside for effective cooling. Similar structures can be seen on the side and bottom of the battery case. In addition to cooling, the fins also improve rigidity. Top section of the battery pack houses the battery management system and electronic controls. The on-board charger is installed under the seat. The DC to AC inverter supplying power to the electric motor is located underneath the bike’s belly.
    Yamaha electric motorcycle specs
    A conventional style chassis has been used in combination with a trellis-style front frame. There’s a swingarm pivot, most likely made from aluminium. The electric motor is placed towards the rear. It uses a reduction gearbox to drive the front sprocket. A unique rear suspension has been used to accommodate the rear positioning of the electric motor.
    Performance numbers of Yamaha’s electric superbike have not been revealed. But it’s interesting to note that Yamaha already supplies EV powertrains to other OEMs. These electric powertrains are rated in the range of 35kW (47 hp) to 350kW (470 hp). Considering the level of practicality Yamaha has introduced in the patent, this new electric superbike may actually reach production stage. However, launch could still be years away. More

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    New Honda NX125 Scooter Patented In India – Launch Planned?

    Honda NX125 Patented in IndiaOriginally introduced in the Chinese market, Honda NX125 is designed to make daily commutes a lot more fun and exciting
    Honda offers a wide range of 125cc scooters across various international markets. One of these is NX125, one of the popular options in China. A recent patent filing reveals that Honda is planning to introduce the NX125 in other markets as well.
    Honda NX125 patented – Key features
    Design patent for Honda NX125 reveals that the overall profile is largely the same as the model sold in China. The sharp, radical styling immediately gets one’s attention. With its visually attractive maxi-scooter styling, Honda NX125 is a suitable choice for the young generation. In China, the Honda NX125 is offered with striking dual-tone colour options. Coupled with the sporty graphics and brand lettering, Honda NX125 is easily noticeable on the streets.
    Honda NX125 Patented in India
    Overall design of NX125 represents the concepts of fashion and freedom and appeals to folks who dare to be different. Some of the key features include dual LED headlights and position lights, sharp body panelling and diamond-shaped tail light.
    The scooter has alloy wheels, a compact visor, sporty rear-view mirrors, comfy single piece seat and robust grab rails. NX125 has a disc brake at front for improved braking performance. Honda NX125 has a dynamic LCD instrument console with crisp and concise information display. The unique polygonal shape of the instrument ensures a sporty look and feel.
    New Honda NX125
    The scooter has open storage at the front, which can be used to store various items such as water bottles, cell phones, etc. A USB charging port ensures that users can recharge their smartphones anytime, anywhere. The under-seat storage is adequate for holding an open-face helmet or other items of daily necessities. The scooter has foldable aluminium alloy rear footrests.
    New Honda NX125
    Honda NX125 – Performance, specs
    In the Chinese market, Honda NX125 is equipped with a 125cc, single cylinder, air cooled engine. It churns out 9 PS and 9.87 Nm and is mated to a CVT gearbox. Braking setup comprises disc brake at front and drum at rear. The scooter has a 6-liter fuel tank and ground clearance of 110 mm. With a kerb weight of 106 kg, Honda NX125 is among the lightweight 125cc scooters.
    New Honda NX125
    Even in India, 125cc scooters like TVS Jupiter 125, Honda Activa 125 and the recently launched new Destini 125 are heavier than NX125. But there are even more lightweight 125cc scooters such as Suzuki Access 125 (104 kg) and Yamaha Fascino 125 (99 kg). With a lightweight profile, a higher power-to-weight ratio can be achieved. Honda NX125 has a rated max speed of 88 km/h. Dimensionally, the scooter is 1,804 mm long, 686 mm wide and 1,110 mm tall. It has a wheelbase of 1,245 mm.
    New Honda NX125 Specs
    It is not certain when Honda NX125 will be introduced in India. For folks who prefer a sportier styling, Honda already offers the Grazia 125. Assuming Honda NX125 is launched in India, it will take on rivals such as TVS Ntorq 125, Suzuki Burgman Street and Aprilia SXR 125. More

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    2024 Yamaha R15M Carbon Fibre Pattern Graphic – Launch Price Rs 2.08 Lakh

    2024 Yamaha R15M Carbon Fibre PatternOne of the best selling fully faired 150cc segment motorcycle in India, R15 gets even more sportier with a new variant
    India Yamaha Motor (IYM) Pvt. Ltd. has launched the R15M with a Carbon Fibre Pattern graphic, along with new features and upgrades. 2024 R15M now includes Turn-by-Turn Navigation, Music & Volume Control, and an LED license plate light. These features are available in both the new Carbon Fibre Pattern variant and the existing Metallic Grey model.
    2024 Yamaha R15M Carbon Fibre Pattern
    The Carbon Fibre Pattern, inspired by the Yamaha R1M’s bodywork, is applied using water-dipping technology and is visible on the front cowl, side fairings, and rear panels. The new model also comes with an all-black fender, updated decals, and blue alloys.
    2024 Yamaha R15M Carbon Fibre Pattern
    Key features of the R15M include a 155cc fuel-injected engine producing 14.2 Nm of torque at 7,500 rpm and 13.5 kW of power at 10,000 rpm. The bike is equipped with a Traction Control System to reduce wheel spin, a Quick Shifter for clutchless upshifts, and an Assist and Slipper Clutch to prevent excessive engine braking during downshifts. It also features Yamaha’s Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) system to optimize power delivery across the RPM range.
    The R15M includes a fully digital TFT screen with Bluetooth connectivity, and the Y-Connect app allows riders to access navigation and control music functions via their smartphone. The R15M with the Carbon Fibre Pattern is priced at Rs 2,08,300 (ex-showroom, Delhi), while the upgraded Metallic Grey version is available for Rs 1,98,300 (ex-showroom, Delhi). Both models are available at Yamaha dealerships nationwide.
    2024 Yamaha R15M Carbon Fibre Pattern
    Yamaha says
    Mr. Eishin Chihana, Chairman, Yamaha Motor India Group of Companies said, “Yamaha motorcycles are well known for their exhilarating performance, exciting agility and eye-catching sporty design. Since its launch in 2008, the R15 has embodied class leading performance and has enabled numerous consumers in India to experience the joy of riding a SuperSport motorcycle with thoroughbred Yamaha Racing DNA. The young consumers in India are well versed with our international models and the lineage, styling and technology that percolates into the R15 from the R1 has also been significantly recognised and appreciated by them.”
    “The new R15M raises this bar even higher, with its powerful engine, innovative features, racy decals and sporty carbon-fibre patterned accents. We are confident that the R15M will continue to delight our consumers who crave for a premium motorcycling experience, with ample performance to keep them enthralled for a long time to come”, he added.
    With the launch of the Carbon Fibre Pattern R15M variant ahead of the festive season, Yamaha aims to attract more buyers and boost its sales in this competitive segment. More

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    Hero HF Dawn Spied Testing – The Next Big Thing In Commuter Motorcycles?

    New Hero HF Dawn Spied TestingLooking close to production, Hero HF Dawn might be the most affordable motorcycle on sale in India when it is launched soon
    India is one of, if not, the largest 2W market on earth. Establishing dominance in this market is paramount. The best way to crack this market is to launch affordable commuters, which still forms the major chunk of sales. Hero has aced this genre and is taking the game to the next level with upcoming HF Dawn, which has been spotted testing recently.
    Hero HF Dawn Spotted Testing
    World’s largest motorcycle manufacturer, Hero MotoCorp, is the best-selling 2W brand in India. The company relies heavily on its 100cc portfolio with Splendor brand being the golden goose. Hero MotoCorp has been witnessing stiff competition from HMSI (Honda Motorcycles and Scooters India).
    Hero has regained market leadership last month in domestic market, but only by a small margin. To expand its market share, Hero intends to pull out the big guns in the form of HF Dawn, which was discontinued in May 2017 owing to poor sales. However, times are different today and Hero needs a more affordable 100cc offering.
    This is where the recently spied Hero HF Dawn comes into play. With less equipment and bodywork than every other Hero offering today, HF Dawn could very well be the most affordable Hero motorcycle and the most affordable motorcycle of any brand.
    Hero HF Dawn Pre 2017
    Currently, HF 100 is the most affordable offering from Hero MotoCorp and the upcoming HF Dawn will be positioned below that. Think, of a price point of around Rs 55,000 (Ex-sh), as opposed to HF 100’s Rs 59,018 (Ex-sh) pricing. We can see very basic componentry and equipment with HF Dawn.
    The larger headlight setup with a cowl on HF 100 will be replaced with a simpler round headlight. This round headlight looks better, if you ask me. There will be a simple analogue instrument cluster and elements like a tachometer and fuel meter might be absent. Electric self start will be a “feature” on this motorcycle.
    When will it launch?
    Wheels are alloys, similar to the one seen in HF 100. Braking is via drum units at both ends. Seat is long and rear is suspended by twin shock absorbers and front gets RSU telescopic forks. All the lighting will be via halogen bulbs.
    Hero HF 100
    An exact launch timeline from Hero MotoCorp is yet to be announced, but the test mule spied recently looked production-ready. It will bear the same 97.2cc single-cylinder air-cooled unit with around 8 bhp of peak power and 8 Nm of peak torque, mated to a 4-speed gearbox. This engine might not get i3S stop/start feature to keep pricing competitive.
    Also read – Hero Splendor+ gets first-in-segment front disc brakes
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    Honda Activa Electric Launch Date Revealed Officially – Entirely New Platform

    Image for illustration purpose.Activa EV could get a new name and make use of the Honda e:Swap battery swapping technology
    While Honda offers electric two-wheelers in select international markets, the brand is yet to start its EV journey in India. Honda has been working on a new electric scooter for India, but the project has been delayed by around 12 months.
    Honda Activa launch by March 2025
    Tsutsumu Otani, CEO, Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India Ltd., said that Honda Activa has retained the bestseller title for close to two decades. He said that the brand’s electric scooter launch for the Indian market has been delayed by around a year. However, details about what could have caused the delay has not been revealed. But Otani did confirm that Honda’s first electric scooter for India will be launched in March 2025. It is likely to be Activa Electric, although it could go on sale with a different name.
    Honda Activa Electric Scooter Teased
    Honda has been planning an electric two-wheeler for India for several years now. The earlier option was to do an ICE to EV conversion project on the existing Activa. However, that possibility was dismissed, as it did not satisfy Honda’s goal to produce a top-class electric two-wheeler. Honda decided to go with a new, born electric platform, which is exactly what is currently taking shape at the brand’s development centre.
    With a born-electric platform, Honda will be able to offer advanced features with its first electric scooter for India. Examples include connectivity features, touchscreen and keyless entry. Such features would have been challenging to integrate with the existing platform in use with ICE Activa. The new platform is expected to be lightweight, which will help achieve a higher range. A low-drag, aerodynamic design will also help boost range. It will also achieve a sportier profile for the scooter.
    2nd Honda Electric Scooter for India
    Honda e:Swap could be a gamechanger
    Similar to Activa, Honda electric scooter has potential to emerge a bestseller. While the brand’s strong credentials are already advantageous, Honda could improve the overall user experience with its e:Swap battery swapping technology.
    Honda e: Swap
    With the e:Swap system, users won’t have to worry about things like range anxiety or daily hassles like recharging the battery. If the battery is sold as an optional component, the starting price of the electric scooter can also be reduced significantly. With multiple benefits, Honda’s upcoming electric scooter can emerge as a runaway success.
    Honda e:Swap system is already operational in Bengaluru for commercial three-wheelers on a trial basis. It is being run as a joint venture between Honda and the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation. Battery swapping for electric two-wheelers has already been deployed on a large scale in countries like Taiwan.
    The same can be copied for India, although there will be challenges. Taiwan-based Gogoro also has plans to set up battery swapping stations in India. Honda Activa EV could be launched at a starting price of around Rs 1 lakh. It will take on rivals such as Ather Rizta, Ola S1 X+, Bajaj Chetak, Hero Vida and TVS iQube.
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