More stories

  • in

    Royal Enfield Meteor Modified Into A Bobber With Lots Of Chrome

    Royal Enfield Meteor Modified – Chrome BobberCoincidentally, Royal Enfield is working on a new Bobber-style motorcycle that will be based on Classic 350
    Launched last year in November, Meteor 350 has emerged as a popular choice in domestic as well as international markets. In domestic market, Meteor 350 is currently Royal Enfield’s second bestselling product, next only to Classic 350. The bike is preferred for its smooth design language, comfy cruising ergonomics and high-torque engine.
    With its simple design, Meteor 350 has also emerged as one of the preferred options for customization projects. We have been witness to several such experimentations in the past. In this latest customization project, Meteor 350 has been transformed into a Bobber-styled motorcycle. The makeover has been done by K-Speed, a Japan-based motorcycle customization shop.
    Royal Enfield Meteor chrome loaded Bobber – key changes
    Primary idea for this makeover appears to focus on enhancing the retro profile, all while introducing quirky styling bits that ensure an eccentric character for the bike. Towards this end, a number of changes have been introduced. Starting with the front, stock headlamp has been replaced with a much smaller round unit that fits snugly between the front forks. It comes with integrated turn signals.
    While front suspension forks are the same, they have been equipped with fork gaiters for a more rugged look and feel. Front fender has been completely ripped away. Instrument pods have shifted to the left side of the bike. Top front section of the bike comes in chrome finish, which creates an interesting contrast against the largely blacked-out parts.
    Royal Enfield Meteor Modified – Chrome Bobber
    Chrome finish has been added to the top section of forks, the handlebar and fuel tank. Chrome finish on fuel tank is already offered with Royal Enfield bikes like Continental GT, Interceptor and Classic 350. Chrome finish can also be seen on custom made exhaust pipe that replaces the stock unit.
    Stock handlebar has been replaced with an aftermarket raised touring handlebar. This is a key change to achieve a bobber style look. In place of the stock two-piece seat, the bike gets a single seat for the rider. Rear tail section has been almost entirely sawed off.
    This has resulted in rear turn signals (aftermarket units) being mounted close to rear shock absorbers. While alloy wheels are same, stock tyres have been replaced with chubby balloon tyres at both ends. They should ensure better grip and more comfort for users.
    Royal Enfield Meteor Modified – Chrome Bobber
    No engine tweaks
    This customization project is unlikely to have performance upgrades done on the engine. The stock 349cc single cylinder, air-oil cooled motor generates 20.2 bhp of max power at 6,100 rpm and 27 Nm of peak torque at 4,000 rpm. It is mated to a constant mesh 5-speed gearbox.
    The twin-downtube spine frame has been left untouched as well. Braking system comprising 300mm front and 270 mm rear disc brakes has been retained. Meteor 350 is offered with dual-channel ABS as standard.
    In an earlier project also, Meteor 350 was modified into a bobber by Amsterdam-based Ironwood Custom Motorcycles. However, there’s significant difference between the two customizations even though the core objective is the same.

    Source More

  • in

    Ola Electric Scooter First Batch Ready For Delivery – CEO Shares Photos

    Ola Electric Scooter First Batch. Image – Bhavish AggarwalOla CEO has revealed that the first deliveries of their electric scooter will start from 15th Dec 2021
    The new Ola electric scooter was launched on 15th August 2021. It was set to go on sale soon after. But delay after delay, has caused much disappointment for those who have booked the Ola e-scooter.
    Understanding the pain of their customers, Ola Electric’s co-founder Bhavish Aggarwal took to Twitter to apologize to buyers for this constraint. To streamline the buying process, Aggarwal states that the company has set up a complete digital purchase system which also includes a fully digital, paperless loan process.
    Ola Electric Scooter Delivery Start Date
    After waiting for months, there is finally a date. Buyers will start getting delivery of their new Ola Electric Scooter from 15th Dec 2021. This was announced by Ola CEO Bhavish. Via his twitter account, the CEO tweeted a few photos, which showed that the production of first batch is underway at the plant.
    The photos also showed many Ola Electric scooters parked inside the plant, ready for delivery to their customers. Bhavish said, “Scooters are getting ready. Production ramped up and all geared to begin deliveries from 15th Dec. Thank you for your patience!”
    Ola Electric Scooter
    Ola S1 and S1 Pro
    Ola S1 and S1 Pro are priced at Rs 99,999 and at Rs 1,29,999 (ex-showroom Bengaluru) respectively. The S1 sports small LED headlamp with integrated turn signals and LED tail lamps with side indicators. It also gets a simple front apron, TFT instrument display, disc brakes and 12 inch wheels.
    Features on both the variants also include Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and GPS connectivity along with side stand down, anti-theft alert, geo fencing, hill hold assist, voice assistant and cruise control. Ola Electric scooters sport a 36 liter under-seat storage space large enough to accommodate two open face helmets.
    Proximity sensor for keyless access and reverse mode is also available on the new Ola S1 allowing for efficient parking in tight parking spaces. The colour palette for the S1 includes five options while the S1 Pro variant is being offered in a total of 10 choices.
    Ola Electric Scooter First Batch
    Riding Modes, Motor and Charging
    Ola S1 comes with two riding modes of Normal and Sport while Ola S1 Pro variant gets three modes of Normal, Sport and Hyper. It gets its power via an IPM motor rated at 8.5 kW with continuous power of 5.5 kW. The motor powered by a 2.98kWh battery pack for Ola S1 and 3.97kWh battery pack for S1 PRO. Range claimed is up to 181 kms.
    Ola e-scooter is positioned on a tubular frame. It gets a single fork in the front and monoshock at the rear while braking is via a 280mm disc in the front and 220mm disc at the rear. It will take on the likes of Bajaj Chetak, TVS iQube Electric, Ather 450X and the upcoming Simple One. More

  • in

    New KTM RC 390 Coming Soon Teaser – India Launch Nears

    New Gen KTM RC 390New KTM RC 390 will continue to rival the likes of Kawasaki Ninja 300, TVS Apache RR 310 and upcoming Benelli 302R
    A number of changes including visual and functional updates have been introduced for new KTM RC 390. This is in line with the company’s strategy to overhaul its entire line-up. KTM has already launched new RC 125 and RC 200. These are available at a starting price of Rs 1.82 lakh and Rs 2.09 lakh, respectively.
    New KTM RC 390 updates and features
    When the test mules were spotted, a section of KTM fans seemed to have been disappointed with the new design. However, the production variant of RC 390 has put most doubts to rest. One of the key changes is a single LED headlamp that replaces the earlier twin projector unit. The bike gets a larger windshield and updated LED DRLs. The latter also doubles up as turn signals.
    Changes extend to various other components such as the fuel tank, body graphics, fairing and tail section. Apart from enhancing visual aspects, the updates also appear to improve the bike’s aerodynamics. Airflow has also been enhanced with the addition of air vents on side panels. Another key update is a new TFT instrument console with Bluetooth connectivity.
    Users can expect more comfortable rides on new KTM RC 390, as the bike has relaxed ergonomics. The overall stance remains aggressive, but there are slight adjustments to the clip-on handlebar and foot pegs. These updates will be useful for touring purposes. A similar set of changes including seat height and positioning of foot pegs have also been introduced for pillion rider.
    KTM India Teases New Gen RC 390 – Coming Soon
    New KTM RC 390 engine and specs
    KTM has chosen to continue using the same engine as earlier. The 373cc single cylinder, liquid cooled motor can generate max power of 44 bhp. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox.
    However, torque has been increased to 37 Nm. This has been made possible with the use of a larger airbox. With this, the bike’s top speed has improved by 11 kmph. This is significant, especially in a track environment. Ride dynamics is enhanced with the use of a slipper clutch and bi-directional quick-shifter. KTM has also added improved heat dissipation system to ensure optimal riding comfort.
    In other changes, KTM RC 390 gets a new bolt-on rear sub-frame. This should help improve the bike’s handling and balance. Suspension system comprises USD forks at front and monoshock rear suspension. Braking system comprises 320 mm front and 230 mm rear disc brakes. Dual-channel Bosch ABS is offered as standard. Braking apparatus is now sturdier, which should ensure optimal safety when braking at corners or at high speeds.
    With the updates, new KTM RC 390 is priced higher than the outgoing model. Production has already commenced at Bajaj‘s manufacturing facility in Chakan. Bookings for the updated bike are open at KTM dealerships. More

  • in

    Vivo Electric Scooter, Motorcycles – Applies For Trademark In EV Category

    Image for reference.With its huge untapped potential, EV segment in India has been attracting startups and tech companies in droves
    Chinese smartphone manufacturers have been following an aggressive strategy ever since the telecom revolution started to take shape in India. With their affordable pricing and advanced features, the likes of Xiaomi, Realme, Oppo, Vivo, OnePlus, etc. have been able to establish a strong presence in the country.
    As the next big thing in India will be EVs, these companies are planning to target this space as well. Most of these smartphone manufacturers including Vivo have filed their respective trademarks in automotive category. The status of Vivo’s trademark application currently shows up as ‘opposed’.
    Vivo Electric Scooter, Motorcycles, EV details
    It is not yet certain what type of EVs Vivo is planning to launch in India. A specific timeline for launch of these EVs is also not available at this point of time. As per the trademark application filed under Class 12, the category lists a wide range of goods and services.
    It includes electric vehicles, cars, motorcycles, driverless cars (autonomous cars), bicycles, mopeds, self-balancing vehicles, electric unicycle, unicycle, self-balancing unicycles, remote control vehicles, water vehicles, air vehicles, aerial drone and photography drone.
    Vivo Applies for trademark in EV category in India
    Considering that electric two-wheeler segment is among the ones with highest potential, Vivo could start its EV journey with an electric scooter and/or an electric motorcycle. It’s too early to comment on the design of Vivo electric two-wheeler, but it will be safe to assume that it will pack in a range of advanced features.
    Things likes keyless entry, voice commands and a comprehensive range of connectivity features could be on offer. Vivo is among the premium smartphone brands in the country and it will like to maintain a similar status in EV space as well.
    Easy access to battery and parts
    Chinese handset manufacturers like Vivo will have several advantages that will allow them to crack the Indian EV segment. As of now, China is a hub for battery technology and manufacturing. Most of the current electric two-wheeler brands in India rely on imported battery packs and related components. Smartphone makers like Vivo will have easy access to supplier network in China and they can strike better deals at local level.
    Electronics is another area where smartphone manufacturers are destined to take the lead. EVs utilize a fair amount of electronics, a need that companies like Vivo can easily fulfil. Another advantage is that brands like Vivo, Xiaomi, Oppo, OnePlus, and Realme are already popular in India. Consumers will feel more confident when buying EVs launched by these companies.
    Chinese brands are known for playing the numbers game. This strategy is likely to be deployed in EV space as well. Homegrown manufacturers like Ola Electric, Bajaj, TVS, Ather, Simple Energy, Revolt, etc. will be following these developments closely. A tough battle is expected ahead. More

  • in

    Upcoming Jawa Cruiser Motorcycle Side View Caught In New Spy Shots

    New Jawa Cruiser Spied by SourabhJawa is working on launching two new motorcycles – One of them is a traditional cruiser, which has now been spied again
    Classic Legends is aggressively working on expanding its lineup across various brands. The company will be introducing multiple new models under new brands like Yezdi and BSA in the near future. Meanwhile, the Mahindra-owned company is also developing new bikes under the pre-existing Jawa brand.
    Rekindled in late 2018, Classic Legends currently retails models such as Jawa Standard, Forty-Two and Perak under the Jawa brand. The bikemaker will soon launch a cruiser motorcycle under the Czech-origin brand which has been spotted testing on roads recently on a few occasions.
    Upcoming Jawa Cruiser Motorcycle – Design
    The latest spy shots show the test bike under complete camouflage which mimics retro-inspired styling. This is testified by highlights such as a round headlamp, a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, spoke-styled alloy wheels, a compact windscreen and fork gaiters.
    It also flaunts a wide rear fender and a comfortable saddle. In fact, the pillion seat seems roomier than Standard and Forty-Two. The latest spy shots are credit to automotive enthusiast Sourabh. The test motorcycle was spied near Pune in Maharashtra.
    New Jawa Cruiser Spied
    The upcoming Jawa cruiser looks similar in size to Perak and might share the same underpinnings as the single-seater bobber. Most of the key components and running gear like engine casing, leg guard, frame, dual-pipe exhaust and spoke-styled alloy wheels have been blacked out which should lend a sporty appeal with a dual-tone theme.
    Based on variants and colour schemes, these components could be offered in chrome. From the images, we get to see typical cruiser-style ergonomics with a wide and tall handlebar and slightly forward set footpegs that should offer a comfortable riding posture suited for long-distance cruising. The thick padding of foam under the seat should further enhance riding pleasure.
    Exp Engine, Specs
    The Jawa cruiser could borrow its powertrain from Perak. The 334cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, DOHC engine pumps out 30 bhp and 32.74 Nm of peak torque. This motor is linked with a 6-speed gearbox. Suspension duties will be handled by conventional telescopic forks at front and twin shock absorbers at rear. Anchorage will be taken care of by single disc brakes at both ends aided by a dual-channel ABS.
    New Jawa Cruiser Spied
    Coming to features, the new Jawa cruiser would get an inverted analogue speedometer with a digital odometer as seen in current Jawa models. Other features such as an LED headlamp with LED DRLs should also be on offer. It might not be offered with high-tech features.
    Upon its launch, the new Jawa cruiser will directly compete against the likes of Royal Enfield Meteor 350. It is possible that this motorcycle could be positioned over Perak as a flagship model in the Jawa lineup. Exp price could be in the Rs 2 lakh range, ex-sh. More

  • in

    Top 10 Motorcycles 200cc To 500cc Oct 2021 – Classic, Meteor, Pulsar, KTM, Himalayan

    Image – Jitin KambojHonda CB350 has shown the highest bump in sales which recorded a YoY growth of 454.42 percent in the 200cc-500cc category
    Motorcycle sales last month have shown a slight improvement last month probably because the ongoing crisis of semiconductor chip shortage has eased a bit. This has led to manufacturing and in turn dispatch of more motorcycles. However, there is still a lot of room for improvement, especially in the 200cc-500cc category.
    A total of 58,747 bikes from the 200cc-500cc category were sold across India in October this year. This led to an MoM growth of 48.35 percent in comparison to 39,599 units sold during September 2021. However, a YoY decline of 25.83 percent was recorded since, during October last year, a total of 79,203 units were sold across the country.
    Motorcycles 200cc To 500cc Oct 2021 – Classic, Meteor, CB350 record impressive volume
    The chart was topped by Royal Enfield Classic 350 with a registered sales volume of 19,728 units last month. In comparison, RE dispatched 13,751 units of the new-gen Classic in September this year which translated to an MoM growth of 43.47 percent. During the same period last year, the bikemaker sold 41,953 units of Classic which has translated to a YoY drop of 53 percent.
    Classic was followed by its cruiser sibling Meteor 350 with 7,851 units dispatched in October this year. In September this year, 6,184 units of the cruiser were sold which led to an MoM growth of 27 percent. Honda H’Ness CB350 jumped to the third spot on this list with a total of 7,152 units sold last month. This led to a massive YoY growth of 454.42 percent. MoM growth for CB350 stood at 138.80 percent.
    Motorcycle Sales 200cc-500cc Oct 2021 vs Oct 2020 (YoY)
    Pulsar 220F, Bullet, Himalayan
    In its last phase of life, Bajaj sold 5,936 units of Pulsar 220F before eventually getting replaced by the new Pulsar 250 twins. The sports commuter recorded an MoM growth of 44.50 percent and YoY degrowth of 18 percent. Pulsar 220F was followed by Royal Enfield’s oldest workhorse- Bullet 350 with a total sales volume of 5,822 units recorded in October this year.
    During the same period last year, 11,203 units of the classic roadster were sold which has resulted in a YoY decline of 48 percent. In September 2021, this figure stood at 2,107 units for Bullet which led to YoY growth of 176.32 percent. The brand’s sole adventure tourer Himalayan raked in a volume of 3728 units which translated to a YoY 108.15 percent and an MoM growth of 2.61 percent.
    Electra, KTM 390, Dominar 400
    The seventh spot was occupied by Bullet’s twin sibling- Electra 350 with a total volume of 2,246 units in October 2021. This is a 65 percent YoY drop and a 234 percent MoM growth. KTM dispatched 1,171 units of its flagship 390 range of motorcycles which led to an impressive 214 percent MoM shoot up and YoY growth of 12.81 percent.
    Motorcycle Sales 200cc-500cc Oct 2021 vs Sep 2021 (MoM)
    The 390 range was closely followed up by the 250 range of the Austrian brand with a total volume of 1,162 units registered last month. This translated to YoY growth of 63.20 percent and a marginal 0.94 percent MoM decline. Bajaj sold 1,091 units of its flagship Dominar 400 to wrap up the top ten list. The tourer witnessed a YoY decline of 40 percent and an MoM decline of 10.72 percent.
    Remaining motorcycles in the list include Avenger, FZ25, Apache 310, Ninja 300, Gixxer 250, CB500, Husqvarna 250, Dominar 250, CB300R and Mahindra Mojo. None of these motorcycles managed to cross 1,000 units in sales for the month. More

  • in

    2021 Honda CB350 Anniversary Edition Launch – CB300R BS6 Debuts

    Honda CB350 Anniversary EditionBS6 CB300R will continue to rival the likes of KTM 250/390 Duke, Bajaj Dominar, BMW G310R and TVS Apache RR310
    Honda Motorcycle India has launched special edition of their CB350 at IBW 2021. This launch celebrates the first anniversary of CB350 in India. 2021 Honda CB350 Anniversary Edition has been launched at a price of Rs 2.03 lakh, ex-sh, Gurgaon.
    2021 Honda CB350 Anniversary Edition
    Honda CB350 was launched in October last year, followed by the scrambler version CB350 RS in February 2021. Honda 350cc motorcycles recently achieved the 30k yearly sales milestone.
    Growing popularity of CB350 has prompted Honda to target this segment more aggressively. Over the next three years, the company has plans to increase sales of its 250-500cc bikes to 3 lakh units per annum. To make it possible, Honda will be introducing multiple new motorcycles in middleweight segment.
    Honda CB350 Anniversary edition gets golden themed emblems incorporated on the tank & side panel. The Anniversary Edition logo sits atop the tank in a pin-striped fashion further substantiating the rider’s pride of ownership. Accentuating the overall theme is its Brown Coloured Dual Seat for added comfort to both rider and pillion while its Chrome side-stand enhances premium appeal of the motorcycle.
    2021 Honda CB350 Anniversary Edition
    Body coloured Front & Rear Mudguards help the product theme to maintain one flow in terms of design uniformity. The reimagined Crown Handle synchronized elegantly with different color options maintains the motorcycle’s rugged image. It is be available in two colour options – Pearl Igneous Black and Matt Marshal Green Metallic.
    2021 Honda CB300R BS6 Showcased
    In line with its strategy to aggressively target the middleweight segment, Honda Motorcycles and Scooters India (HMSI) will soon be launching the BS6 version of CB300R. The bike was available in India earlier, but it was discontinued when BS6 norms came into effect from April 1, 2020. In its BS4 format, Honda CB300R was imported as CKD. Only a limited number of units were available for sale. The last known price of the bike was Rs 2.41 lakh.
    Updated BS6 CB300R could be assembled locally to keep costs down. It is to note that Euro 5 version of the bike is not available in international markets. India could be the first country to get the greener CB300R. The bike was quite popular when it was available in India. In just a few months post its launch in 2019, all available units of CB300R were sold out.
    2022 Honda CB300R BS6
    BS6 CB300R details
    Honda has kept the details of BS6 CB300R tightly under wraps. The bike has neo-retro styling with features such as round headlamp, flat handlebar, sculpted fuel tank, sporty split seat, exposed trellis frame, short tail section and chunky upswept exhaust.
    In its BS4 format, Honda CB300R was powered by a 286cc, single cylinder, 4-valve, liquid cooled motor. It generated 30.45 hp of max power and 27.4 Nm of peak torque. It was mated to a 6-speed gearbox. New CB300R could have slightly lesser power and torque, as has been the case with most other bikes that have received BS6 update.
    CB300R has USD forks at front and monoshock rear suspension. Braking duties are performed by disc brakes at both ends. Dual-channel ABS is offered as standard. It is possible that BS6 CB300R could get a new range of connectivity features. Honda is simultaneously focusing on expanding its Big Wing network across the country.  This will also be a key factor in helping achieve desired sales targets. More

  • in

    Joy Electric Scooters, Motorcycles Nov 2021 Sales Grow By 1190%

    Joy Electric Motorcycle – Beast
    WardWizard sold 3,290 electric scooters and motorcycles in November 2021 – A 12 fold increase over 255 units sold in November 2020
    Vadodara based WardWizard markets its electric two wheelers under ‘Joy e-bike’ brand. Last month, they recorded the highest ever monthly sales till date. The company sold a total of 3,290 units in Nov 2021, approximately a 12 fold jump over 255 units sold in November 2020, a percentage hike of 1,190 percent.
    Growth was seen both in urban and semi urban sectors. Taking Year-to-Date sales into account, they have sold 13,516 units during the April-November 2021 period, a 590 percent increase over 1,957 units sold in the same 7 month period of 2020.
    Joy Electric Scooters, Motorcycles
    Every electric two wheeler from the company comes in with JOY E-Connect. This is a cloud-based mobile app that goes a long way in enhancing its overall riding experience. Compatible with the entire Joy e-bike product range, the App can be downloaded on iOS and Android.
    Joy e-bike lineup currently includes five high-speed vehicles and five in the low-speed category. Their electric two wheelers are all priced aggressively and are sold via authorized sales outlets across 23 major cities in the country. WardWizard plans to add 250 dealerships by the end of 2022.
    Joy Electric Scooter and Motorcycle
    Nov 2021 also saw WardWizard inaugurate a new global headquarters in Vadodara. Joy e-bike also launched a new brand campaign in collaboration with ‘The Kapil Sharma Show’. Through this show, the company will get a chance to showcase their range of electric two-wheelers to a wider audience.
    WardWizard Vadodara Plant
    WardWizard has an installed capacity of 4 lakh units at its plant in Vadodara, Gujarat. Investments to the tune of Rs 200 crores have been made till date. Plans are afoot to mark foray into more segments in the future. They could enter the electric rickshaw or the electric car segment.
    Joy e-bike targets to sell 45,000-50,000 electric scooters and motorcycles in the current fiscal. The company expects a higher percentage of sales from non-metro regions across India.
    In terms of added investment, WardWizard will be looking at investing an added Rs 175 crores over the next 6 months. They also have plans to set up new assembly facilities in West Bengal and Kerala to cater to the demands of buyers in the North East and Southern states respectively. Both these new facilities are expected to be operational by the first quarter of next financial year. More