Bike News

Subterms

    More stories

    • 138 Shares119 Views

      in Bike

      Bajaj Freedom 125 Sales and Delivery Starts – Bookings Open Nationwide

      by

      Bajaj Freedom CNG Delivery StartsFirst Bajaj Freedom 125 Sale and Delivery in Pune – Over 30,000 enquiries recordedBajaj Auto launched the Freedom 125 on 5th July 2024. The first motorcycle has now been delivered to Mr. Pravin Thorat in Pune, India. The bike is available in three variants and starts at ?95,000 (Ex-Showroom Delhi). Bookings are now open nationwide. This model’s unique selling proposition is its CNG integration, making it the world’s first motorcycle with this feature.Comfort and convenience are prioritised with a mono-linked suspension system, a long and quilted seat, LED headlamps, and digital speedometers. Bluetooth connectivity enhances rider experience by providing seamless integration, adding to the bike’s modern appeal. Bajaj Auto is working on ramping up distribution routes across its dealer network to meet high consumer demand. By making innovation accessible to a broader audience, Bajaj reinforces its legacy of pioneering advancements in the motorcycle industry.[embedded content]Dual-Fuel Efficiency with 330 km RangeCustomer interest has surged, with over 30,000 enquiries within a week. Freedom 125 boasts a CNG tank range of over 200 km on 2 kg of CNG. The petrol tank holds 2 litres, providing a total range of 330 km when combined with the CNG. Dual-fuel capacity not only extends the range but also offers flexibility in fuel usage. A feather in the cap of flexi fuel vehicle options.Environmentally, the Freedom 125 reduces CO2 emissions by 26.7 percent compared to traditional petrol motorcycles. Operating costs are up to 50 percent lower than similar petrol models, making it both eco-friendly and economical. The motorcycle’s advanced safety features include a trellis frame that securely houses the CNG tank, ensuring stability and protection.2W CNG Integration: Go Big, or Go HomeBajaj Auto’s commitment to innovation is evident in the Freedom 125’s design and features. The company aims to set new standards in the motorcycle industry by offering advanced technology at an affordable price. This approach not only benefits consumers but also positions Bajaj as a leader in sustainable mobility solutions. On the alternate mobility front, the company sells Bajaj Chetak. A field that is being increasingly occupied by new age manufacturers.Bajaj Freedom 125 addresses the pressing need for cost effective commuter bikes. By integrating CNG, Bajaj provides a viable alternative to petrol motorcycles, reducing emissions and operating costs. This move aligns with global trends toward sustainability and environmental responsibility. Bajaj Freedom 125 sales projections are set at 10k units in the early months. Numbers are expected to increase to 40k units pm by fiscal end.Bajaj Freedom 125: Setting New StandardsWhile nothing has been said about the ideal buyer group, the bike could also be an attractive proposition to fleets. It’s convenient, cost effective, and quick to fill CNG. A long seat to carry large delivery loads, and a steady ride in city conditions. With CNG bunks on the rise, filling stations could very well be set up in the vicinity of delivery warehouses.“The Bajaj Freedom 125 launch has generated almost unprecedented consumer interest in this innovation, which helps deliver significant operating cost savings as well as a greener ride as compared to traditional petrol bikes. We are working hard to ensure that we meet this demand by expanding distribution rapidly across our expansive dealer network. Booking is now open across the country”,” said Mr. Sarang Kanade, President Motorcycles, Bajaj Auto Ltd. More

    • 188 Shares129 Views

      in Bike

      Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Vs Triumph 400, Harley X440, Yezdi, CB300R – Specs, Prices Comparison

      by

      Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 offers oodles of performance and weighs less than Himalayan 450, which will prove to be an advantageOne of India’s most anticipated motorcycles, Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 has been launched today, in Barcelona, Spain. There are three variants on offer, to establish a wider price bracket. Base Analogue variant costs Rs 2.39 lakh, mid-level Dash variant costs Rs 2.49 lakh and top-end Flash costs Rs 2.54 lakh (all prices Ex-sh). Let’s take a look at where it falls in terms of competition.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Vs RivalsQuestions hit me at the speed of light. Is it as lightweight as CB300R? Nope. Is it as jam-packed with electronics as TVS Apache RTR 310? Nope. Is it as VFM as Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z? Never. Does it have badge value like BMW, Triumph and Harley? Pretty close. Does it have raw performance like KTM 390 Duke? We don’t know yet. So, is it a jack of all trades? We would love to find that out.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450On paper, it would be logical to only compare Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 with neo-retro and classic Roadsters like Triumph Speed 400, Harley-Davidson X440, Hero Mavrick 440, Honda CB300R and Yezdi Roadster. Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z, Dominar 400, TVS Apache RTR 310, KTM 390 Duke and BMW G 310 R emerge as sporty Roadsters. So, highlighting Pulsar NS400Z’s Rs 54,000 price advantage over Guerrilla 450 makes less sense.Design is subjective. If you ask me, I would rate Honda CB300R the highest among these contenders followed by Triumph Speed 400. Many motorcycling enthusiasts will find that Guerrilla doesn’t have that quintessential Royal Enfield DNA lurking all around vehicles like Classic 350, Bullet 350, Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650. However, Guerrilla is a far more pretty motorcycle if we compare it to its platform sibling, Himalayan 450.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Vs RivalsPerformance-wise, Guerrilla 450 has the largest engine displacement at 452cc and packs the highest torque at 40 Nm. Not just that, peak torque is generated at a relatively low 5,500 RPM, while Harley-Davidson X440’s 38 Nm peak torque comes up at an even lower 4,000 RPM. Speed 400 and Guerrilla 450 offer comparable power figures. CB300R has the least power in this comparo, but it only weighs 146 kg.Except for X440 and its re-branded cousin Hero Mavrick 440 gets oil cooling and a 2V head with SOHC setup. Every single one of these contenders packs a DOHC 4V head with liquid cooling. Guerrilla 450 is the only one with ride modes, while others offer ride-by-wire, slipper clutch and other attributes. Features-wise, Harley X440 offers e-sim telematics. But RE’s Tripper Dash with Google Maps, music control, and app support is significantly superior.Guerrilla 450Dimensions & ComponentsAt 185 kg, Guerrilla 450 is lighter than Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and rivals like Yezdi Roadster and X440. But the arch-rival Speed 400 is lighter at 176 kg. Guerrilla 450 and Yezdi Roadster have the longest wheelbase at 1,440 mm, while CB300R’s is the shortest at 1,357 mm. Guerrilla 450 has the lowest seat height at 780 mm and the second-lowest ground clearance and the second-smallest fuel tank at 11L.In terms of componentry, Guerrilla 450 is very well kitted out. It gets RSU telescopic front forks like Yezdi Roadster and offers mono-shock rear suspension, unlike Yezdi and Harley. Notably, Guerrilla 450 offers the largest rear disc brake setup at 270 mm. Only Harley offers wire-spoke wheels as an option, while others offer alloys only. At 120-section front and 160-section rear, Guerrilla 450 offers the fattest tyres of this segment and a couple of segments above.Guerrilla 450Even though it had a lot of 1st-gen niggles, there was immense potential in the Sherpa 450 platform, as we found in our long-term review. Building on Himalayan 450’s strengths, Guerrilla 450 is a well-rounded package. Even though the pricing is slightly on the higher side, it should not affect Royal Enfield’s massive appeal and is likely to be the best-seller of its segment. More

    • 125 Shares169 Views

      in Bike

      Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Vs Rivals Comparison – Competition Check!

      by

      Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 offers oodles of performance and weighs less than Himalayan 450, which will prove to be an advantageOne of India’s most anticipated motorcycles, Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 has been launched today, in Barcelona, Spain. There are three variants on offer, to establish a wider price bracket. Base Analogue variant costs Rs 2.39 lakh, mid-level Dash variant costs Rs 2.49 lakh and top-end Flash costs Rs 2.54 lakh (all prices Ex-sh). Let’s take a look at where it falls in terms of competition.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Vs RivalsQuestions hit me at the speed of light. Is it as lightweight as CB300R? Nope. Is it as jam-packed with electronics as TVS Apache RTR 310? Nope. Is it as VFM as Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z? Never. Does it have badge value like BMW, Triumph and Harley? Pretty close. Does it have raw performance like KTM 390 Duke? We don’t know yet. So, is it a jack of all trades? We would love to find that out.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450On paper, it would be logical to only compare Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 with neo-retro and classic Roadsters like Triumph Speed 400, Harley-Davidson X440, Hero Mavrick 440, Honda CB300R and Yezdi Roadster. Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z, Dominar 400, TVS Apache RTR 310, KTM 390 Duke and BMW G 310 R emerge as sporty Roadsters. So, highlighting Pulsar NS400Z’s Rs 54,000 price advantage over Guerrilla 450 makes less sense.Design is subjective. If you ask me, I would rate Honda CB300R the highest among these contenders followed by Triumph Speed 400. Many motorcycling enthusiasts will find that Guerrilla doesn’t have that quintessential Royal Enfield DNA lurking all around vehicles like Classic 350, Bullet 350, Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650. However, Guerrilla is a far more pretty motorcycle if we compare it to its platform sibling, Himalayan 450.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Vs RivalsPerformance-wise, Guerrilla 450 has the largest engine displacement at 452cc and packs the highest torque at 40 Nm. Not just that, peak torque is generated at a relatively low 5,500 RPM, while Harley-Davidson X440’s 38 Nm peak torque comes up at an even lower 4,000 RPM. Speed 400 and Guerrilla 450 offer comparable power figures. CB300R has the least power in this comparo, but it only weighs 146 kg.Except for X440 and its re-branded cousin Hero Mavrick 440 gets oil cooling and a 2V head with SOHC setup. Every single one of these contenders packs a DOHC 4V head with liquid cooling. Guerrilla 450 is the only one with ride modes, while others offer ride-by-wire, slipper clutch and other attributes. Features-wise, Harley X440 offers e-sim telematics. But RE’s Tripper Dash with Google Maps, music control, and app support is significantly superior.Guerrilla 450Dimensions & ComponentsAt 185 kg, Guerrilla 450 is lighter than Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and rivals like Yezdi Roadster and X440. But the arch-rival Speed 400 is lighter at 176 kg. Guerrilla 450 and Yezdi Roadster have the longest wheelbase at 1,440 mm, while CB300R’s is the shortest at 1,357 mm. Guerrilla 450 has the lowest seat height at 780 mm and the second-lowest ground clearance and the second-smallest fuel tank at 11L.In terms of componentry, Guerrilla 450 is very well kitted out. It gets RSU telescopic front forks like Yezdi Roadster and offers mono-shock rear suspension, unlike Yezdi and Harley. Notably, Guerrilla 450 offers the largest rear disc brake setup at 270 mm. Only Harley offers wire-spoke wheels as an option, while others offer alloys only. At 120-section front and 160-section rear, Guerrilla 450 offers the fattest tyres of this segment and a couple of segments above.Guerrilla 450Even though it had a lot of 1st-gen niggles, there was immense potential in the Sherpa 450 platform, as we found in our long-term review. Building on Himalayan 450’s strengths, Guerrilla 450 is a well-rounded package. Even though the pricing is slightly on the higher side, it should not affect Royal Enfield’s massive appeal and is likely to be the best-seller of its segment. More

    • 163 Shares169 Views

      in Bike

      Electric 2W Sales June 2024 – Ola, TVS, Bajaj, Ather, Hero, Revolt, Okaya

      by

      Ather 450XElectric 2W sales June 2024 list was topped by Ola Electric with a 46% share of total retail salesElectric 2W sales were in high demand in June 2024 with 79,530 units sold, a 72.48% YoY growth from 46,108 units sold in June 2023. It was also a 3.41% growth on a MoM basis when compared to 76,907 units sold in May 2024. Every 2W OEM on this list has shown off outstanding sales performance on a YoY basis, though retail sales comparison on a MoM basis were somewhat subdued.Electric 2W Retail June 2024 YoY Vs MoMElectric 2W sales in India are increasing by leaps and bounds. Government of India subsidies, tax incentives and other benefits to promote adoption of electric vehicles have stood it in good stead.Sales of electric two wheelers in June 2024 that experienced significant YoY and MoM growth had Ola Electric at No. 1 with a lion’s share in total sales. Ola retail sales stood at 36,723 units in the past month, a 107.57% YoY growth from 17,692 units sold in June 2023. The company retail sales however fell on a MoM basis by 1.35% when compared to 37,225 units sold in May 2024.TVS Motor, with a single electric 2W model iQube has contributed 13,904 units to total 2W retail sales in June 2024. This was a 76.74% YoY and 17.95% MoM improvement over 7,867 units and 11,788 units sold in June 2023 and May 2024 respectively.Electric 2W Sales June 2024At No. 3 was Bajaj Auto with Chetak electric scooter sales at 8,990 units last month. The company reported an astronomical 198.57% YoY growth over 3,011 units sold in June 2023 while MoM sales performance dipped by 2.43% from 9,214 units sold in May 2024. Chetak 2901, the newest offering is priced at Rs 95,998, ex-showroom – Bangalore. It promises an ARAI-certified range of 123 km.Ola Holds Top SpotAther sales also improved significantly by 32.61% YoY to 6,104 units in June 2024 from 4,603 units sold in June 2023. MoM saw a very marginal improvement by 0.98% from 6,045 units sold in May 2024. The Ather Rizta electric scooter marked its entry into the segment. It is presented in two variants of Rizta S and Rizta Z and priced from Rs 1,09,999 to Rs 1,44,999 (Ex-showroom Bengaluru).A massive YoY growth was reported by Hero MotoCorp with a 560% YoY hike in retail sales to 3,069 units in June 2024. This was up from a meagre 465 units sold in June 2023. MoM sales also showed off promise with a 24.96% growth from 2,456 units sold in May 2024.Greaves Electric two wheeler retail sales also improved YoY and MoM by 88.40% and 38.70% respectively to 2,713 units. Bgauss sales also scaled new heights with a 456.02% YoY improvement to 1,062 units last month from 191 units sold in June 2023 while there had been 1,158 units sold in May 2024 relating to an 8.29% MoM decline.Electric 2W Retail June 2024 – Sub-1,000 UnitUnable to cross sales above the 1,000 unit mark was Wardwizard with 896 unit sales in June 2024. This was a 103.64% YoY but a 28.95% MoM decline. Quantum Energy showed off the highest YoY growth with a 754.43% improvement to 675 units from 79 units sold in June 2023 while MoM sales grew by 29.06% over 523 units sold in May 2024.Lower down the sales list was Revolt (660 units) reporting a YoY and MoM decline in sales while sales of Okaya (517 units) and Kinetic Green (457 units) projected outstanding YoY improvement in sales. Lectrix EV also revealed a 245.22% and 89.95% YoY and MoM growth with 397 units sold last month.Okinawa sales on the other hand fell significantly by 85.80% and 23.93% respectively to 382 units. Other electric 2W OEMs contributed 2,991 units to total retail sales last month. However, this was a 52.10% YoY decline from 6,244 units sold in June 2023 but a 2.15% MoM growth over 2,928 units sold in May 2024. More

    • 200 Shares139 Views

      in Bike

      Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Launch Price Rs 2.39 L – 3 Variants, 6 Colours, Brochure, Specs

      by

      Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Roadster Launched: Power-Packed with 40PS OutputRoyal Enfield Guerrilla 450 has been launched globally. It is a premium modern roadster based on the Sherpa 450 platform. It is powered by the same Himalayan 450 engine. The sherpa 450 platform underpins its design and performance, boasting a 452cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine. This new motorcycle will help Royal Enfield boost declining sales.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Prices and VariantsGuerrilla 450 is now open for bookings in India and Europe. The introductory price in India is set at INR 2,39,000 (ex-showroom). Test rides and retail sales in India will start on August 1, 2024. In Europe, retail sales will commence in mid-August.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 PricesGuerrilla 450 is powered by a 452cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled Sherpa engine with a 4-valve DOHC setup. It delivers power of 40 PS at 8,000 rpm and torque of 40 NM at 5,500 rpm. More than 85 percent of its torque is available from 3000 rpm, ensuring a responsive ride. The engine features a water-cooled system with an integrated water pump, twin-pass radiator, and internal bypass. It is paired with a 6-speed gearbox featuring an assist and slip clutch.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 SpecsKey features of the Guerrilla 450 include a stepped bench seat, an 11-litre fuel tank, and LED headlights with integrated tail lamps. It has an upswept silencer and a steel twin-spar tubular frame. The front suspension comprises a 43mm telescopic fork, while the rear has a linkage-type mono-shock. The motorcycle rides on 17-inch front and rear tubeless tyres, with a 1440 mm wheelbase for stability.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 SpecsCategoryRoyal Enfield Guerrilla 450 SpecificationEngineTypeLiquid cooled, single cylinder, DOHC, 4 valvesBore x Stroke84 mm x 81.5 mmDisplacement452 ccCompression Ratio11.5:1Maximum Power40.02 PS (29.44 kW) @ 8000 RPMMaximum Torque40 Nm @ 5500 RPMIdle RPM1300Starting SystemElectric startLubricationSemi-dry sumpEngine Oil Grade10W40 API SN, JASO MA2, semi-syntheticClutchWet multiplate, slip & assistGearbox6 speedFuel InjectionElectronic fuel injection, 42mm throttle body, ride-by-wiresystemChassis & SuspensionTypeSteel, tubular frame using engine as stressed memberFront SuspensionTelescopic forks, 43 mmFront Wheel Travel140 mmRear SuspensionLinkage type mono-shockRear Wheel Travel150 mmDimensions WeightsWheelbase1440 mmGround Clearance169 mmLength2090 mmWidth833 mmHeight1125 mm (without mirrors)Seat Height780 mmDry Weight174 kgKerb Weight185 kgPayload w/ Standard Equipment191 kgFuel Capacity11 LBrakes TyresTyres Front120/70 R17Tyres Rear160/60 R17Brakes FrontHydraulic disc brake, 310 mm ventilated disc, double piston caliperBrakes RearHydraulic disc brake, 270 mm ventilated disc, single piston caliperABSDual channel ABSElectricalsElectrical System12VBattery12V, 8 AHHead LampLED headlampTail Lamp/Turn Signal LampIntegrated turn & tail lamp, all LEDOther EquipmentRide modes, USB Type-C charging pointCluster4 inch round TFT display with phone connectivity, full map navigation (powered by Google Maps), media controlsCluster (Base Model)Digi-analog instrument cluster (Tripper Pod optional)Riding modes and technology are significant highlights. The Engine Management System (EMS) and ride-by-wire technology provide versatility. Performance Mode and Eco Mode throttle responses enable riders to adapt to various riding conditions, enhancing both efficiency and fun.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450Info System, and AccessoriesGuerrilla 450’s infotainment system, the Tripper Dash, features a 4-inch infotainment cluster. It supports route recording in GPX format, music control, weather forecasts, and comprehensive vehicle information. The Royal Enfield Wingman MIY feature adds a layer of connectivity, enhancing the riding experience. Variants of the Guerrilla 450 include Analogue, Dash, and Flash with 6 options.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450A variety of accessories can be added to the Guerrilla 450 to enhance its functionality and style. These include large engine guards, sump guards, an urban seat, a tinted flyscreen, blacked-out mirrors, a bench seat, a silver sump guard, a headgrill, a Halcyon black instrument cowl, compact engine guards, bar-end mirrors, and soft panniers.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450Guerrilla 450 Roadster Variants and ColoursThe Borderless Warranty Program offered by Royal Enfield provides comprehensive coverage, ensuring peace of mind for Guerrilla 450 owners. In most Latin American markets, it’s known as Royal Enfield GBR 450. August 2024 Introductory Price list is as follows – Analogue Smoke Silver, and Playa Black – INR 2,39,000/-; Dash Playa Black, and Gold Dip – INR 2,49,000/-; Flash Yellow Ribbon, and Brava Blue – INR 2,54,000/-.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450B Govindarajan, CEO – Royal Enfield said, “When we started with the Sherpa 450 platform, we envisaged an adventure tourer and a superlative roadster that would be distinctly Royal Enfield. Developed in parallel with the Himalayan, the Guerrilla is tuned to perfection for city riding as well as weekend rides through twisty roads.” More

    • 213 Shares189 Views

      in Bike

      2W Retail Sales June 2024 Shows YoY Growth, MoM Decline – Hero, Honda, Bajaj, TVS, Royal Enfield

      by

      TVS JupiterEven as MoM retail sales posted double digit de-growth of 10.36%, the 2W segment has experienced a 4.66% YoY growthThe two wheeler segment in India has experienced a 4.66% YoY growth in June 2024 in terms of retail sales. A shift in customer preferences, new and improved model launches and other economic factors brought in better sales results in June 2024 with sales at 13,75,889 units. This was a 4.66% YoY growth over 13,14,628 units sold in June 2023.However, MoM sales declined by 10.36% over 15,34,856 units sold in May 2024. The extreme heat wave that encompassed the country through June 2024 coupled with constraints in market liquidity caused this decline.2W Retail Sales June 2024 Vs June 2023Retail sales of two wheelers as revealed by FADA saw Hero MotoCorp, Honda and TVS Motor holding on to top 3 positions with combined market share of 71.57%.The two wheeler sales list was headed by Hero MotoCorp with 3,97,029 units sold last month to command a 28.86% market share. Sales however, declined over 4,27,203 units sold in June 2023 when market share had stood at 32.50%. Hero MotoCorp showed off the new Hero Destini 125cc scooter last month while earlier this month, the new Hero Centennial has been launched, limited to just 100 units.2W Retail Sales June 2024On the other hand, Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India has posted significantly higher YoY sales which improved to 3,51,422 units in June 2024, up from 2,83,398 units sold in the same month last year. Honda is currently expanding their portfolio in the adventure bike segment. Honda’s CRF300L and CRF300L Rally have been spotted on test runs. They will share the same 286cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine though no official timeline of launch has been announced.4.66% YoY growthTVS Motor retail sales also went up effectively YoY to 2,36,180 units in June 2024 from 2,27,163 units sold in the same month last year. Currently commanding a 17.17% market share, TVS Motor continues to see high demand for models such as the Jupiter, Apache, XL, Raider, NTorq and iQube.Retail sales of Bajaj Auto dipped to 1,53,535 units last month, from 1,63,536 units sold in June 2024. Market share also fell to 11.16% from 12.44% YoY. Bajaj Freedom 125 has just been launched in India. This launch is particularly noteworthy as it is the world’s first petrol+CNG bi-fuel capable motorcycle with two separate switches for petrol as well as CNG.Suzuki Motorcycle sales also went up significantly in June 2024 to 73,048 units, up from 62,682 units sold in June 2023 taking up market share to 5.31%. Royal Enfield however, suffered a setback in terms of retail sales last month. Sales dipped from 62,374 units sold in June 2023 to 55,249 units in June 2024. With the new Guerilla 450 set for launch later this month, the company should see better sales performance in the months ahead. It was followed by India Yamaha Motor with retail sales growth to 50,106 units in June 2024 to command a3.64% market share.Electric Two Wheeler Retail Sales June 2024The electric two wheeler sales in India are growing rapidly. Several factors such as favorable government policies, improvement in charging infrastructure and advancement in battery technology has boosted sales across this segment.Continuing its dominance in the electric two-wheeler segment Ola Electric was the best-selling OEM in terms of electric two wheelers with 36,723 units sold last month. This was a growth of 19,031 units over 17,692 units sold in June 2023. Market share also doubled to 2.67% from 1.35% YoY.Ather Energy also saw retail sales growth to 6,104 units last month from 4,603 units sold in June 2023 while sales of Greaves Electric improved to 2,713 units in June 2024 from 1,440 units sold in the corresponding month last year.Piaggio and Classic Legends have reported YoY de-growth in retail sales down to 2,669 units and 2,033 units respectively. There were other 2W OEMs that added 9,078 units to total retail sales last month significantly lower when compared to 12,294 units sold in June 2023. More

    • 188 Shares129 Views

      in Bike

      Do Not Invest In CNG Bike, Not Worth Your While – Rajiv Bajaj To Rivals

      by

      Nitin Gadkari, Rajiv Bajaj, Rakesh Sharma at the CNG Bike LaunchBajaj has filed multiple patents for its CNG two-wheeler platform, of which, around 3-4 are in final stagesAt the Q&A session of Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG bike launch, the interactions revealed some interesting facts and insights. For example, Rajiv Bajaj revealed how the Freedom CNG bike will challenge the might of Hero MotoCorp in the commuter segment. The Q&A panel also talked about the reasons why a larger CNG tank was not possible.Bajaj Freedom CNG motorcycle patentsResponding to a question about how many patents have been filed for Bajaj Freedom CNG motorcycle, the panel said that multiple patents have been filed. While an exact number was not provided, it was stated that around 3-4 patents are in the final stages. These patents cover various features and functions of the CNG bike. For example, the fuel tank packaging is unique, as there’s a CNG tank as well as a petrol tank.Nitin Gadkari and Rajiv Bajaj at the Freedom CNG launchThe objective was not just to make the dual-fuel system work, but also to ensure optimal safety for users. Bajaj has internally crash tested the Freedom 125 CNG bike, including being completely run over by a 10-ton truck. The bike passed all the tests without any damage to the CNG tank. The pressure gauge remained unchanged, with no leaks detected.Another patent is for the unique ignition system that does not utilize any starter motor. The bike comes to life with just the push of a button. It is also worth noting that Bajaj CNG bike can start directly with CNG fuel. There is no need to start the bike with petrol and later switch to CNG. A third patent is for the automatic switching mechanism between the two fuels. If the CNG tank reaches minimums, the bike will automatically shift to petrol and vice-versa.Bajaj Freedom CNG BikeHeavy investments – Don’t take the CNG routeAdding to the discussion about patents, Rajiv Bajaj said that the company has made significant investments in developing the CNG bike. On a lighter note, he recommended that other OEMs should avoid this segment due to the heavy investments involved. Below is the entire QnA with Rajiv Bajaj at the CNG bike launch, the part where he tells rivals not to invest in CNG bike is from 23:10 mark.[embedded content]Interestingly, there are reports that TVS has started testing the CNG version of its Jupiter 125cc scooter. It is expected to be launched in the next 3-12 months’ time frame.What does NG represent in the bike’s name?Talking about how the bike got the NG suffix in its name (Freedom 125 NG04), Rajiv Bajaj provided the complete details. While using CNG would have made the messaging crystal clear, this name sounded too mechanical. After a lot of research and discussion, the NG name was chosen for the bike. NG directly relates to CNG and it can also refer to the New Generation or Next Generation. It also sounds good, which is why it was finalized.On a funnier note, the company’s CFO pointed out that NG can even relate to Nitin Gadkari. It is Nitin Gadkari who has been making a strong push for greener fuels including CNG. He was present at the launch event and had unveiled the Bajaj Freedom CNG bike. More

    • 138 Shares139 Views

      in Bike

      2025 Bajaj Pulsar ADV Spied Testing Again – Reveals New Details

      by

      Bajaj Pulsar ADV SpiedWhen launched, Bajaj Pulsar ADV is likely to be in a niche and attract a lot of buyers who want a high-riding ADV-styled motorcycleThe new Freedom 125 CNG motorcycle is currently all the rage in India. It has unprecedented popularity and is likely to be the hottest Indian motorcycle in the coming months. However, Bajaj is creating another buzz with an upcoming ADV style Pulsar motorcycle. It has been spotted testing for the second time, revealing new details.Bajaj Pulsar ADV Spied Testing AgainIf we take a look at Bajaj’s portfolio, we can see that the company lacks a proper ADV or even a faux ADV. In a time where ADVs and ADV-styled motorcycles are gaining popularity, Bajaj is diving into the genre too. Not that Bajaj never designed an ADV styled motorcycle.Bajaj Pulsar ADV SpiedThe company offered Pulsar AS series (Adventure Sports), which was discontinued owing to poor sales. Now, Bajaj seems to be at it again. This is the second time Bajaj’s upcoming ADV-styled motorcycle has been spied. The new spy shot is credited to automotive enthusiast Irfan Khan, who spotted it in Lonavala.We can see the bike from its exhaust side, showing interesting details from the side profile. Overall, Bajaj Pulsar ADV spied, looks a lot like Pulsar NS. So, Bajaj might be positioning its upcoming ADV on Pulsar NS platform boasting its tried and tested perimeter frame and the box-section swingarm.Bajaj Pulsar ADV SpiedNotable changes are the new front seat, which is scooped out quite a bit, to offer a low seat height. This is a common practice in high-riding ADVs. Seat is of split design and looks like it offers decent wiggle room. Fuel tank looks large and muscular with beefy tank shrouds. There is no bikini fairing and tall windscreen like Pulsar AS, though.Bajaj Pulsar ADV SpiedTail section looks very similar to Pulsar NS range, packing almost identical tail lights. Grab rail is a single-piece design on this upcoming Pulsar ADV, while NS gets a split design. There is a beak-like element protruding down from the headlight too, lending the whole ADV look.What to expect?Thie upcoming Bajaj Pulsar ADV looks like it has USD telescopic front forks. But the rear disc brakes and skinny tyres suggest that this could be a 125cc motorcycle. So, the beefy appeal from the front suspension area might be due to fork covers, similar to what we saw in Freedom 125 CNG motorcycle. So, RSU telescopic forks with beefy covers are most likely.125cc Pulsars are Bajaj’s best-sellers and sell like hot cakes when compared to other motorcycles. So, expanding this category further to include an ADV-style motorcycle might prove to be a good decision. LED headlights, LED tail lights, a fully digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth support, USB charging port, rear mono-shock suspension setup, 17-inch alloys at both ends and front disc brake are some of the features and componentry.Powertrains-wise, upcoming Bajaj Pulsar ADV is likely to come equipped with a similar setup as Pulsar NS125. So, around 12 PS of peak power, 11 Nm of peak torque, 5-speed gearbox, air-cooled engine, underbelly exhaust setup, kick and self start maybe the ballpark. More