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      350cc Motorcycle Sales Dec 2021 – Classic, Meteor, Bullet, CB350

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      Royal Enfield Classic 350Royal Enfield Classic 350 was the best-selling 350cc motorcycle in December 2021 and despite de-growth scaled over the others by a significant margin
      The Indian automobile market continued to face severe shortage in supplies of semi-conductors thus leading to some production constraints. Domestic sales were significantly lower in the 350cc motorcycle segment, although there was a notable increase in exports. Royal Enfield continued to dominate this segment with Classic, Meteor, Bullet and Electra along with Honda CB350.
      Total sales of these 5 bikes in the 350cc segment in December 2021 stood at 64,643 units which included 59,646 units sold in domestic markets while 4,997 units were exported. This related to a YoY de-growth in domestic sales to the tune of 7.97 percent over 64,812 units sold in December 2020. Exports on the other hand increased 493.47 percent from 842 units shipped in December 2020.
      350cc Motorcycle Sales Dec 2021 – Classic 350 Leads
      Heading 350cc motorcycle sales list in the past month was Royal Enfield Classic 350. It saw domestic sales to the tune of 34,723 units, down 11.69 percent over 39,321 units sold in December 2020. Despite this de-growth, sales of the Classic 350 were higher than combined sales of other four in the sales chart by a significant margin leading to a 58.22 percent share in this segment.
      Meteor 350 sales increased 28.10 percent to 10,977 units, up from 8,569 units sold in December 2020. Sales of the Bullet 350 dipped 23.08 percent to 8,061 units as did sales of Electra 350 that fell by 7.32 percent to 4,521 units in the past month, from 4,878 units sold in December 2020. Honda also noted a 12.79 percent YoY de-growth for its CB 350 to 1,364 units from 1,564 units sold in December 2020.
      350cc Motorcycles Sales and Exports – Dec 2021 vs Dec 2020 (YoY)
      Exports on the other hand saw substantial growth for RE Meteor 350 and Classic 350. Shipments went up by 2321.28 percent for the Meteor 350 to 2,276 units in the past month, from 94 units sold in December 2020. Classic 350 exports increased 733.19 percent to 1,983 units from 238 units sold in December 2020.
      Honda CB350 exports also increased 44.71 percent to 738 units in December 2021 from 510 units shipped in the same month of the previous year. Electra 350 saw just 9 units shipped in the past month while Bullet 350 exports failed to take off.
      350cc Motorcycle Sales and Exports Dec 2021 vs Nov 2021 (MoM)
      When comparing sales in the 350cc motorcycle segment on a month-on-month basis, performance in domestic markets improved significantly. Sales increased 43.08 percent MoM from 41,688 units sold in November 2021 to 59,646 units last month. It was once again Classic 350 that claimed charts by a significant margin with a 77.15 percent MoM growth from 19,601 units sold November 2021 to 34,723 units in the past month. RE Classic 350 commanded a 47.02 percent share in November 2021 which increased to 58.22 percent in December 2021.
      350cc Motorcycles Sales and Exports – Dec 2021 vs Nov 2021 (MoM)
      At No. 2 was the RE Meteor 350 with sales growth of 62.02 percent to 10,977 units in December 2021, a MoM increase over 6,775 units sold in November 2021. Sales of Bullet 350 dipped 7.9 percent in December 2021 to 8,061 units from 8,733 units sold in the previous month while Electra 350 sales increased 6.20 percent from 4,257 units sold in November 2021. Domestic sales of Honda CB350 dipped 41.26 percent from 2,322 units sold in November 2021.
      Exports saw the Meteor 350 in demand with 2,276 units sold, down 12.63 percent over 2,605 units shipped in November 2021. Classic 350 exports increased 44.22 percent over 1,375 units in November 2021 while Honda CB350 exports dipped 41.98 percent from 1,272 units in November 2021 to 738 units in December 2021. More

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      Bajaj Twinner Trademark Filed – New Pulsar 500cc Twin Cylinder ?

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      Render image for reference.Bajaj Auto is developing multiple new products in the premium segment of two-wheelers with KTM and Triumph
      Bajaj Auto has been looking to foray into the premium segment of mid-displacement motorcycles for many years and hence has stitched many partnerships with international brands like KTM and Triumph. The Chakan-based automaker has filed a new trademark named ‘Twinner’ which could be used for an upcoming twin-cylinder motorcycle.
      As per the trademark certificate, the name has been proposed for motorcycles and scooters among others, however, there hasn’t been any confirmation on the same by Bajaj yet. Bajaj has joined hands with the iconic British manufacturer Triumph to develop affordable mid-capacity motorcycles specifically for the Indian market.
      Parallel-twin motors developed by Bajaj-KTM
      It should be noted that Bajaj is already developing a new 490cc parallel-twin engine in association with KTM which will be utilised in multiple upcoming models under the Austrian brand such as 490 Adventure, 490 Duke, RC490, and 490 Supermoto/Enduro.
      This 490cc parallel-twin motor could also power upcoming Bajaj models as well. Whether this engine will be the source of power for the Twinner is yet to be seen. It is possible that Bajaj could launch these motorcycles under the Pulsar brand – Bajaj Pulsar 500cc Twinner or the likes.
      Bajaj Twinner Trademark Filed
      Registrations of trademarks in the auto industry don’t guarantee a market launch. Bajaj has filed multiple trademarks in recent times including ‘Fluor’, ‘Fluir’, and ‘Neuron’. Most of them are likely to be utilised by the brand’s upcoming electric two-wheelers. That said, the Twinner trademark application doesn’t mention the use of electric vehicles.
      Bajaj-Triumph joint venture
      This motorcycle will cater to the 200cc-700cc engine capacity and it is squarely aimed at a segment dominated by Royal Enfield for the past many decades. As per earlier reports, the first product from the Bajaj and Triumph joint venture was expected to make its global debut this year. However, due to unavoidable delays, the market launch of the upcoming bike got pushed to 2023.
      The first of the upcoming motorcycles is expected to be globally unveiled towards the end of this year. These bikes are expected to flaunt a neo-retro design similar to the Bonneville range of motorcycles from Triumph. Retro-styled bikes are currently the blue-eyed boys in the motorcycling community all over the world. However, other than the trademark filed, there isn’t any significant detail revealed.
      Bajaj New EV Plant
      This is interesting since Bajaj recently laid the foundation stone for its new EV manufacturing plant in Akurdi near Pune in Maharashtra. Bajaj has announced an investment of Rs 300 crore for this new facility which on completion will have an annual production capacity of 50,000 EVs. The first vehicle from this plant is expected to roll out by June this year. More

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      TVS iQube Beats Bajaj Chetak – 2021 Electric Scooter Sales

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      TVS iQube Wins 2021 Battle; Beats Bajaj Chetak By 905 Units. Image – Wheel Wheel WkAt 1,212 units, TVS iQube has registered its highest monthly sales in CY 2021
      Ever since their launch, there’s been a close fight between Bajaj Chetak and TVS iQube. These are currently the only electric scooters produced by mainstream manufacturers. This scenario is expected to change this year, as companies like Hero MotoCorp, Honda and Suzuki have planned to launch their first-ever electric products in Indian market.
      Chetak vs. iQube – December 2021 sales
      In comparison to iQube’s haul of 1,212 units, Chetak sales were at 728 units in December 2021. YoY growth is 1990% for iQube, as compared to 58 units sold in the corresponding period last year. Chetak YoY growth is even higher in percentage terms. That’s because only 3 units were sold in December last year.
      In terms of MoM growth, iQube has registered gains of 73.39% in comparison to 42.47% of Chetak. Respective sales in November 2021 were at 699 units and 511 units.
      While iQube monthly sales were highest in December for CY2021, it’s third-best performance for Chetak. Second-best month for Chetak was in July when sales were at 730 units. Chetak’s highest sales were at 835 units in October last year. iQube’s second-best performance was in September 2021 when it had registered sales of 766 units.
      TVS iQube vs Bajaj Chetak Dec 2021 Electric Scooter Sales
      When compared on a month-to-month basis, it is evident that iQube was ahead of Chetak in eight months in 2021. Vice-versa, Chetak was ahead of iQube in the months of April, May, July and October. Monthly average sales works out at 423 for Chetak and 498 for iQube. Lowest point for iQube was in May, when zero sales were reported. In case of Chetak, its worst performance was in January last year at 30 units.
      TVS iQube vs Bajaj Chetak 2021 Electric Scooter Sales
      Although iQube has raced ahead of Chetak in 2021, it cannot be used to arrive at any conclusion. It is widely known that the auto sector continues to face challenges due to shortage of components such as semiconductor chips. There are multiple companies that have registered strong bookings, but are unable to deliver due to shortage of components.
      Chetak vs. iQube specs and pricing
      Bajaj Chetak is offered in two variants, Premium and Urbane. It has range of 90 km, when Eco mode is engaged. Top speed is around 80 kmph. The scooter can load up to 25% charge in one hour. Some of the key USPs of Chetak is its steel body and IP67 rated water protection. The company is currently offering battery warranty of 3 years or 50,000 km, whichever is earlier.
      [embedded content]
      In comparison, TVS iQube has range of 75 km on a full charge. Top speed is 78 km and 0-40 kmph is achieved in 4.2 seconds. It utilizes a hub-mounted motor that generates peak output of 4.4 kW. iQube’s batteries are packed inside high strength aluminium extrusion casing, which makes them water and dust resistant. Battery warranty is the same as that of Chetak.
      One significant advantage for iQube is that it is much cheaper than Chetak. In Delhi, iQube is available at Rs 1.01 lakh. In comparison, Chetak costs around Rs 1.48 lakh. More

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      New Yamaha EMF Electric Scooter Debuts With Swappable Battery

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      New Yamaha EMF Electric ScooterDeveloped in collaboration with sustainable mobility solutions provider Gogoro, Yamaha EMF will first go on sale in Taiwan
      After EC-05 that was unveiled in 2019, Yamaha EMF is the second electric vehicle to be developed in collaboration with Gogoro. Partnering with Gogoro in EV space offers multiple benefits including a readymade battery architecture and access to a wide network of battery swapping stations. In India, Hero MotoCorp has also partnered with Gogoro to develop electric vehicles and battery swapping infrastructure.
      Yamaha EMF Electric Scooter – styling and features
      As compared to the current breed of Yamaha two-wheelers, EMF electric scooter appears to have an entirely distinct DNA. Hinting towards its evolution, Yamaha EMF is quite like the transformation into an entirely new species. The scooter has a futuristic look and feel combined with powerful, aggressive styling. Three colour options are on offer, Dark Black, Dark Green and Light Blue.
      Some key features of Yamaha EMF include stacked dual LED headlamps, flat front apron with chiselled profile, trendy rear view mirrors, digital instrument console, single piece seat and afterburner-styled dual LED tail lights. The scooter has quite a few unique features such as a small storage space at the centre of the floorboard. This can be used for various accessories, cup, bottle, etc.
      Instead of a key, the scooter can be turned on/off with an NFC card. This makes it a lot easier to carry, store and use. A range of connectivity features are available, which can be accessed via Yamaha app. Some key connectivity features include last parking location, turn-by-turn navigation, and fleet management system.
      New Yamaha EMF Electric Scooter
      Yamaha EMF specs
      Yamaha EMF electric scooter utilizes a mid-mounted motor that generates 10.30 ps of max power at 3,000 rpm and 26 Nm of peak torque at 2,500 rpm. It can accelerate from 0 to 50 kmph in 3.5 seconds. Yamaha is yet to reveal the scooter’s top speed, but it could be around 100 kmph.
      Range is not really a concern in Taiwan, as the scooter will be relying on Gogoro’s extensive battery swapping network. As per estimates, around 97% electric two-wheelers in Taiwan utilize Gogoro’s battery swapping. Whenever the battery runs low, Yamaha EMF users can visit the nearby swapping station to get a fully-charged battery. Overall experience is quite similar to that of getting petrol/diesel at a fuel station.
      Yamaha EMF has a lightweight frame with high torsional rigidity. It has been designed to achieve improved control and handling. Suspension system comprises upright front forks and dual rear shock absorbers. Braking duties are performed by 200 mm disc at front and 190 mm disc at rear. The scooter has CBS for efficient braking.
      New Yamaha EMF Electric Scooter
      In Taiwan, Yamaha EMF electric scooter is available at a starting price of NT$ 102,800. This is approximately INR 2.77 lakh. It is not certain if and when Yamaha EMF will be launched in Indian market. Here, the first electric vehicle from Yamaha is likely to be E01 e-scooter. This was recently spotted on road tests. Yamaha has already trademarked the names E01 and EC-05 for Indian market. More

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      Top 10 Two Wheelers Dec 2021 – Splendor, Activa, Pulsar, Jupiter

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      Image – Autoholic ManishTop 10 two wheeler sales in December 2021 reported at cumulative decline; 4 two-wheelers reported at growth
      Cumulative sales for the top 10 two wheelers sold in December 2021 are reported at 7,29,938 units. Sales decline is reported at 7.52 percent, down from 7,89,256 units. Total volume loss is pegged at just below 60k units.
      Top 10 Two Wheelers Dec 2021 – Splendor Leads
      Hero Splendor sales continue to rule the market with sales last month reported at 2,26,759 units. Sales growth stood at 16.33 percent, up from 1,94,930 units. Volume gain is just shy of 322k units. Of the top order, Splendor market share is phenomenal at 31.07 percent.
      Honda Activa, the nation’s best selling scooter, held onto second spot despite 22.12 percent sales decline. Sales fell to 1,04,417 units, down from 1,34,077 units. Volume decline is reported at 29,660 units. Market share for the scooter stood at 14.30 percent among the top 10.
      Hero HF Deluxe sales decline was steep at 41.15 percent. Sales fell to 83,080 units, down from 1,41,168 units. Volume loss was at a staggering 58k units. In fact, a year earlier, HF Deluxe sales had outdone that of Activa. This was rare as Honda Activa has a stronghold on second position of the top order. However, Deluxe’ sales decline has put the motorcycle back in 3rd place.
      Top 10 Two Wheelers Dec 2021
      Honda CB Shine sales growth is reported at 21.53 percent. Sales is up at 68k units, up from 56k units. Volume gain stood at 12k units. Bajaj Pulsar sales dipped to just below 65k units at a sales decline of 13.86 percent. Sales fell from 75,421 units. Volume loss stood at 10,455 units.
      Bottom 5 In Top 10
      Bajaj Platina sales growth is reported at 45.74 percent. Sales are up at 44.8k units, up from 30,740 units. Volume gain stood at just over 14k units. TVS Jupiter sales were flat at 38,142 units. Sales fell from 38,435 units. Volume loss is reported at under 300 units.
      Royal Enfield Classic 350, the company’s bestseller saw sales dip to 34,723 units. Sales fell from 39,321 units. Volume loss is reported at 4.6k units at a decline of 11.69 percent. Market share among the top sellers was below 5percent for Classic 350.

      Top 10 2Wheelers
      Dec-21
      Dec-20
      Growth % YoY

      1. Hero Splendor
      2,26,759
      1,94,930
      16.33

      2. Honda Activa
      1,04,417
      1,34,077
      -22.12

      3. Hero HF Deluxe
      83,080
      1,41,168
      -41.15

      4. Honda CB Shine
      68,061
      56,003
      21.53

      5. Bajaj Pulsar
      64,966
      75,421
      -13.86

      6. Bajaj Platina
      44,800
      30,740
      45.74

      7. TVS Jupiter
      38,142
      38,435
      -0.76

      8. Royal Enfield Classic 350
      34,723
      39,321
      -11.69

      9. TVS XL 100
      33,395
      59,923
      -44.27

      10. Hero Glamour
      31,595
      19,238
      64.23

      Total
      7,29,938
      7,89,256
      -7.52

      TVS XL 100 sales decline is the steepest in the top 10 two wheelers. Sales decline is reported at 44.27 percent, down at 33,395 units. Sales fell from 59,923 units. Volume loss stood at 26,528 units. The unit is one without much direct competition. Being a moped means there’s not much to choose from for customers. And its USP has for long ensured that the XL 100 has been TVS’ topseller. However, that order was disrupted last month.
      Hero Glamour sales growth was the highest in the top order list. YoY base sales was low at 19,238 units. In December 2021, this number rose to 31,595 units. Volume gain stood at 12,357 units at volume gain of 64.23 percent. Suzuki and Yamaha failed to leave a mark last month. More

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      Oben Electric Motorcycle Spied Undisguised For First Time

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      Oben Electric Motorcycle SpiedOben EV has plans to launch multiple products over the next 6 months; first motorcycle launch in Q1, 2022
      Choices available to customers in electric two-wheeler space has consistently increased in recent years. Oben EV will soon join the list with its electric motorcycle expected to debut in coming weeks. Oben EV will focus on providing customers an optimal mix of style, performance and ease-of-use with its electric two-wheelers.
      Oben EV electric motorcycle spied
      Oben electric motorcycle has a sporty, futuristic design with a tinge of retro thrown in. The latter is evident in the round headlamp. The bike has sharp body panelling all across and even the seats have a chiselled profile. The bike can be seen in dual-tone colour option of red and black. It is likely that more colour options will be made available at the time of launch.
      The bike is expected to offer a comfortable, upright riding stance. It has centrally placed footpegs and ergonomically mounted handlebar. Although dimensional aspects have not been revealed, the bike looks compact in terms of both length and width. Seat height appears just right to allow optimal balance and control.
      Overall, Oben electric motorcycle looks ready to zip through city streets. With ample ground clearance, it also seems capable to effortlessly tackle some rough patches. Ground clearance seems to be a little better than that of current breed of petrol-powered commuter motorcycles.
      Oben Electric Motorcycle Spied
      Oben electric motorcycle range and specs
      With range of 200 km (ideal driving condition), Oben electric motorcycle looks pretty impressive on paper. However, it is likely that range will be less in real life conditions. Range could be higher with regenerative braking, but it is not known yet if Oben electric motorcycle has this feature.
      Claimed range of 200 km is among the best in this segment. If we compare to Revolt RV400, it has range of 150 km. Oben’s range is also higher than Ola S1 Pro electric scooter that has 181 km range.
      Oben electric motorcycle top speed is 100 kmph, which should be sufficient for city needs. Just for comparison, RV400 and Ola S1 Pro have top speed of 80 kmph and 115 kmph, respectively. Talking about acceleration, Oben electric motorcycle can reach 0-40 kmph in 3 seconds. This is the same as that of Ola S1 Pro.
      Oben EV electric motorcycle charging
      Oben electric motorcycle has charging time of just 2 hours. In comparison, RV400 can be charged from 0-100% in around 4.5 hours. It remains to be seen if Oben EV will setup up its own charging network or partner with third-party EV recharging stations.
      Oben EV electric motorcycle has more than 16 patented innovations. It includes a new battery pack that utilizes maximum heat exchanging (MHX) technology. It ensures that the battery stays cool even when the motorcycle is continuously driven at high speeds.
      Connectivity features including IoT are also expected to be offered as standard with Oben electric motorcycle. Users will be able to access a range of data and analytics about their rides. More

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      2022 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R Debuts With New Colour Option

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      2022 Kawasaki Ninja ZX25R
      Kawasaki currently retails five models under the Ninja range of supersport bikes in India
      Kawasaki has launched an updated Ninja ZX-25R for 2022 in Japan at a price of JPY 9,35,000 (approx. INR 6.10 lakh). The latest iteration of the entry-level supersport bike from Team Green remains mechanically unchanged and only features a small cosmetic update.
      As part of the update, the ZX-25R gets a new colour scheme called Twilight Blue. The Blue paint scheme with grey and red graphics enhances the bike’s sinister appeal. Apart from the new shade, no other changes have been made to the superbike. This includes the overall design of the bike which is inspired by the flagship Ninja ZX-10R.
      2022 Ninja ZX-25R: Styling
      Ninja ZX25R is underpinned by a lightweight trellis frame which has been designed using Kawasaki’s advanced dynamic rigidity analysis. The frame delivers the required balance of strength and chassis flexibility to achieve nimble super sport-style handling.
      It also gets a unique arched swingarm design that enables the short underbelly exhaust to be positioned more centrally. This allows a better balance of the bike and also adds to its stylish, sporty looks.
      2022 Kawasaki Ninja ZX25R
      Other highlights such as a sharp split LED headlight setup, taillight, turn indicators on side fairings and a semi-digital instrument cluster have been retained in the current model. A muscular fuel tank and a heavily-faired front end give it a big bike appearance. The new colour option further accentuates the bike’s sharp lines.
      Powertrain Specs & Features
      Powering Ninja ZX-25R is a 250cc inline four-cylinder motor mated to a 6-speed gearbox. This powertrain pumps out 43.5 bhp at 15,500rpm and a peak torque of 21.1 Nm at 13,000rpm which makes it the most powerful quarter-litre motorcycle in production across the world. The motor also benefits from a quick shifter and a slipper and assist clutch which enables aggressive gear shifts.
      Other features offered by the superbike brand include Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC) and ABS as a safety net. Ninja ZX-25R, even though the smallest in the range, is unlikely to reach Indian shores anytime soon. This is because the price at which it is available will not make it a viable option for a 250cc motorcycle.
      2022 Kawasaki Ninja ZX25R
      Other Updates
      Kawasaki currently retails five models under the Ninja range of sports bikes starting from the base Ninja 300 to the flagship Ninja H2R. The Japanese superbike brand could also add Ninja 400 to its India lineup in the coming future. Kawasaki recently introduced special 50th Anniversary editions of its Z series motorcycles which comprised Z650, Z900, Z650 RS and Z900 RS draped in a special paint scheme. More

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      Royal Enfield 650cc Bobber SG650 Spied Testing Ahead Of Launch

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      2022 Royal Enfield Shotgun 650cc BobberRoyal Enfield is planning to launch atleast 3 new motorcycles in the 650cc segment this year
      The upcoming 650cc motorcycles from Royal Enfield have been generating quite a bit of buzz on the internet of late. These motorcycles have made numerous appearances on social media in recent months – via spy shots.
      Atleast 3 new 650cc motorcycles from Royal Enfield are expected this year. One is the Cruiser 650, second is Super Meteor 650 and third is Shotgun 650. Of the three, it is the latter which has now been spied. Images are credited to automotive enthusiast Deepthi, who spotted the test mule on the outer ring road in Chennai.
      Royal Enfield 650cc Bobber SG650
      Royal Enfield showcased the SG650 bobber concept at the 2021 EICMA show in Italy last year. It looks like the Bobber version of the Super Meteor 650. The test mule that has been spied, has its rear fully covered.
      Shotgun 650 possesses all the styling elements usually associated with a modern classic motorcycle from Royal Enfield. It features neo-retro styling elements such as a round headlamp, a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, single seat, dual exhaust in chrome finish and broad rear fenders.
      2022 Royal Enfield Shotgun 650cc Bobber
      The motorcycle offers a typical low-slung bobber stance which should offer comfortable riding ergonomics thanks to a low saddle, a wide handlebar pulled inwards. All this should enhance its credentials as a modern bobber.
      Mechanical Specs & Features
      Powering Shotgun will be a familiar 648cc parallel-twin motor that already propels Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650. This power mill kicks out 47 bhp and 52 Nm of peak torque and is paired with a 6-speed gearbox via a slipper and assist clutch.
      Differences arise in the hardware department where Shotgun 650 is seen suspended on upside-down forks at front instead of conventional telescopic forks on the other 650 Twins. Rear suspension unit features twin shock absorbers as usual. Braking will be handled by single disc brakes at both ends with ByBre calipers aided by a dual-channel ABS as standard.
      In terms of features, Shotgun 650 is expected to boast an all-LED illumination, a USB charger and a semi-digital instrument console. The instrument console should come with a Tripper Navigation Pod which displays turn-by-turn navigation when paired with the Royal Enfield App on the rider’s smartphone via Bluetooth.
      RE Shotgun 650 Launch
      Launch timeline is not officially revealed. But considering that the motorcycle showcased at EICMA was a near-production ready unit – one can expect the launch to take place in the second half of 2022. Royal Enfield aims to launch 4 new motorcycles every year. This year, their first motorcycle is expected next month, in the form of Himalayan Scram 411. More