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      New Royal Enfield Classic 350 First Batch Owners Start Taking Delivery

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      New Royal Enfield Classic 350 Delivery Starts. Image – Pratip VlogsThe 2021 RE Classic 350 is based on a new J-platform, updated engine and gets Tripper navigation system
      Even as the current generation Classic 350 was the best-selling model in the company portfolio for FY21 with a total of 3,61,140 units sold, a new gen model has been launched. 2021 Classic 350 is a completely new motorcycle from the ground up. It receives a new J platform that also underpins the RE Meteor 350 while its engine lineup is also borrowed from the Meteor 350.
      RE Classic 350 Features
      New Classic 350 receive similar styling from its outgoing counterpart. It does get some new and more refined features. It gets distinctive tail lamps, turn indicators and alloy wheels while it will also sport a semi digital instrument system and Tripper Navigation as a part of its updates.
      An LCD information panel, Bluetooth connectivity, USB charger, a rounded pillion seat and turn by turn navigation powered by Google Maps will also be a part of its updates. 2021 Classic 350 will get the same 14 liter fuel tank that is seen on its current counterpart.
      The new gen RE Classic 350 also sees updates in its chassis and meter console along with a revised swing arm. It is positioned on a double cradle frame compared to a single down tube chassis on the older RE. First batch owners of Royal Enfield Classic 350 have started taking deliveries in multiple cities and towns across India.
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      2021 RE Classic 350 shares engine with the Meteor 350. This 349 cc, single cylinder, 4 stroke engine will offer 20 hp power at 6,100 rpm and 28 Nm torque at 4,000 rpm mated to a new 5 speed gearbox. This engine will receive a counter balancer shaft that will help reduce vibrations, thereby relating to an improved ride.
      Braking will be handled by disc brakes on both wheels along with dual channel ABS as standard. For suspension duties, the Classic 350 will get telescopic forks in front and mono-shock absorber at the rear.
      It is offered in a total of five trim levels – Redditch, Halcyon, Signals, Dark and a range-topping Chrome trim. Price starts from Rs 1.84 lakhs and goes all the way to Rs 2.15 lakhs – all prices are ex-sh. It will rival the likes of Jawa Classic, Honda Hness CB 350, Benelli Imperiale 400, etc in the segment.
      Royal Enfield Next Launches
      Royal Enfield is also planning a host of new launches. The company has said that their aim is to launch 4 new motorcycles every year. This year has already seen the launch of updated Himalayan, revised 650 Twins and new Classic 350. It remains to be seen what RE plans to launch next. In the list of their upcoming motorcycles, there is the Hunter, Shotgun, Scram and even a 650 cc cruiser. More

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      2022 Honda CB500X, CBR500R, CB500F Debuts With New Features

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      2022 Honda CB500XNew components of all these models are sourced from larger siblings Honda CB650R and CBR650R
      Honda will be introducing a series of upgrades on its CB500 lineup in Europe. These include the naked streetfighter CB500F, the supersport CBR500R and the adventure tourer CB500X. Out of these, only CB500X is available in the Indian market which was launched earlier this year.
      These motorcycles have been hugely popular across Europe. The Japanese brand claims to have sold over 106,000 units of CB500 ever since they were launched back in 2013. Out of these, CB500F accounts for nearly half of those sales. The track-friendly CBR500R has accounted for almost 18 percent of the total sales.
      On the other hand, the adventurous CB500X accounts for 35 percent of the total sales volume. The new set of updates primarily focus on the dynamics of the motorcycles which involves its suspension and braking setup. Additionally, minor updates have also been made to their powertrain.
      New Riding Dynamics
      For starters, Honda has equipped the 500cc motorcycle with new Showa 41mm SFF-BP inverted forks at front which has been derived from their more powerful middleweight siblings CB650R and CBR650R. This is said to improve ride and handling of the bikes.
      2022 Honda CB500X
      Stopping power has been enhanced with new dual 296mm wavy front disc brakes powered by radially mounted Nissin calipers. Handling has also improved thanks to lighter Y-spoke aluminum wheels on CB500F and CBR500R.
      The adventure tourer gets larger 19-inch light wheels at front and also receives longer front suspension travel to assist it while traveling on undulated paths. Further, Honda has added a new and lighter swingarm which is said to be stiffer rotationally on all three motorcycles. This has resulted in improved handling and cornering performance, by adding more lateral flexibility to the swingarm.
      Powertrain Specs
      Coming to the powertrain, all three bikes are still powered by the same 471cc parallel-twin motor which continues to produce 47 bhp and 43.2 Nm of peak torque. However, after the latest update, this unit now features new PGM-FI settings to further enhance both torque feel and overall character. The engine is coupled with a 6-speed transmission with an assist and slipper clutch.
      2022 Honda CBR500R
      Honda has also made updates to the colour schemes on the three bikes. For 2022, the naked CB500F will be available in three paint schemes including Pearl Dusk Yellow, Pearl Smoky Gray and Mat Axis Gray Metallic. The fully-faired CBR500R will be offered in a single colour option- Mat Gunpowder Black Metallic with new graphics signifying the brand’s racing heritage.
      The CB500 adventure bike will also be available in the same colour as CBR500R. In addition, it also receives Honda’s classic Grand Prix Red. This set of updates are not expected to be carried forward to the India-spec CB500X anytime soon. CB500X is currently priced at Rs 6.87 lakh (ex-showroom). More

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      Upcoming Benelli Electric Motorcycle Spied – Will Rival 150cc Bikes

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      Upcoming Benelli Electric MotorcycleQJ7000D is expected to be launched in China in the next few months – A Benelli-branded version of the same is likely to launch in select countries
      Electric mobility is a fast-growing space with new launches and unveils taking place almost every other day. It is a space where many established auto brands find themselves competing against relatively new brands or startups. Benelli is one such automaker who is eager to step into the two-wheeler electric segment.
      Earlier in June this year, Qianjiang Motors, Benelli’s parent company, introduced the QJ7000D electric motorcycle at 2021 Beijing Motor Show. Speculations suggested that this bike would hit showrooms of international markets re-branded as Benelli. Recently, spy images of the final production-spec QJ7000D were leaked on the internet.
      Design
      Going by images, the production model looks very similar to the pre-production concept at the annual auto show earlier this year. It gets a beefy profile towards the front, while the rear section is much sleeker.
      The front face features a split LED headlamp setup surrounded by angular fairing on sides. It gets a muscular faux tank mimicking contemporary supersport motorcycles which is hollow from inside and can store a full-face helmet.
      Upcoming Benelli Electric Motorcycle
      The bike also features a signature upswept floating tail section and a V-shaped windscreen. The motorcycle’s fairing gets a dual-tone colour theme of blue and grey which creates a nice sporty contrast with the blacked-out components of the frame, motor and alloy wheels.
      It offers a sporty and committed riding posture with a clip-on handlebar and slightly rear-set footpegs. Other styling highlights include split seats, a rear tyre hugger and uniquely shaped rearview mirrors.
      Electrical, Mechanical Specs
      As the name suggests, QJ7000D is likely to be equipped with a 7kW electric motor. However, the Chinese bikemaker claims that it gets a 10kW (13.4 bhp) motor which should propel the motorcycle to a top speed of almost 105 kmph. This puts it in the same ballpark as conventional 150cc IC engine-powered bikes. The electric motor will draw energy from a 72V, 60Ah battery pack which is claimed to deliver a range of 100km on a single charge.
      Upcoming Benelli Electric Motorcycle
      Coming to its hardware package, suspension duties of the bike will be carried out by USD telescopic forks at front and a mono-shock at rear. Stopping power is achieved from petal-shaped disc brakes on both ends while the bike rides on 17-inch alloy wheels.
      Features
      Further, QJ700D is equipped with an unusual manual transmission that comprises conventional controls including a bar-mounted clutch lever and a foot-operated rear brake and gear shifters. Other features include a fully digital LCD instrument panel that displays a range of information such as speed, gear position, battery percentage, distance travelled, time, etc. The instrument console is likely to offer Bluetooth connectivity as well.
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      Aprilia RS 660, Tuono 660 India Launch Price Rs 13.09 Lakh Onwards

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      New Aprilia RS 660 India LaunchAprilia RS 660 has been launched in India as a CBU – It will rival other 650cc segment motorcycles in the country
      After much delay, Aprilia has finally launched the much awaited RS 660 motorcycle in India. It is priced at Rs 13.39 lakh in India. Its naked sibling, Tuono 660 is priced at Rs 13.09 lakh. All prices are ex-sh.
      The first units of the middleweight supersport motorcycle have started reaching dealerships across the country. Deliveries are expected to commence soon. Certain dealerships have even started accepting bookings for the latest RS 660.
      Design & Features
      Upfront, RS 660 gets a menacing face that features a dual-beam LED headlight with integrated LED DRLs. It gets a muscular fuel tank, an aggressive front fairing, rearview mirrors mounted on front apron, a rider-only seat, a raised windshield, underbelly exhaust and an elevated tail section. The golden-coloured front forks add another charm to the sports bike.
      RS 660 is offered in three paint schemes including Black Apex, Acid Gold and Lava Red. The motorcycle rides on coloured alloys. Take a look at the first look walk-around of the new Aprilia RS 660, in the video below (credit to Drivespark) – from the launch event earlier today.
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      In terms of features, the bike receives an all-LED illumination and a colour TFT instrument cluster. Apart from these, it also boasts a host of rider-based electronic aids which includes a six-axis IMU called APRC (Aprilia Performance Ride Control) system.
      The IMU comprises features such as three-level cornering ABS, traction control, adjustable wheelie control, engine brake control and more. RS 660 is also equipped with a cruise control system, a bidirectional quick-shifter and five riding modes namely Commute, Dynamic, Individual, Challenge and Time Attack.
      Mechanical Specs
      Tuono 660 and RS 660 derives its energy from a 659cc, parallel-twin, liquid-cooled engine with a 270-degree firing order. This motor is tuned to return an output of 100 bhp at 10,500rpm and 67 Nm of peak torque at 8,500rpm. This engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox, integrated with Aprilia Quick Shift (AQS) up and down system.
      Suspension duties on the motorcycle will be handled by 41mm inverted forks at front and a mono-shock unit at rear attached to an asymmetrical aluminium swingarm. Braking duties are performed by 320 mm double disc at the front and 220 mm single disc at the rear. The bike employs Brembo calipers at both ends. Dual-channel ABS with cornering function will be offered as standard. More

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      Honda Two Wheeler Sales Aug 2021 – Activa, Dio, Shine, CB350, Unicorn

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      New Honda ActivaHonda has registered an 18% growth MoM in August 2021 with 4,30,683 unit sales
      Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) has reported August 2021 sales figures. Sales stood at 4,30,683 units in the past month. This included 4,01,469 units in domestic markets while 29,214 units were exported.
      When compared to same month last year, HMSI has posted a sales decline of 6.25% in domestic market YoY. When compared to July 2021, MoM sales increase was 17.9%. In July 2021 HMSI posted sales of 3,84,920 units (that includes 3,40,420 domestic sales and 44,500 units exported).
      Best selling Honda two wheelers for the month include the likes of Activa, Dio, CB Shine, Unicorn, Grazia, Dream, HNess CB350, etc. Total sales in the past month were however a 3 percent decline as against 4,43,969 units sold in August 2020.
      Key Highlights in August
      In the past month, HMSI expanded its networks with inauguration of BigWing in Bhubaneshwar from where the company will retail its mid-size motorcycle segment. Honda’s TopLine dealership in metros showcases the company’s premium motorcycle range that includes models such as the H’ness CB350, CB350RS, CB500X, CBR650R, CB650R, CBR1000RR-R Fireblade, CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, adventure tourer Africa Twin Adventure Sports and flagship model Gold Wing Tour. BigWing dealerships in cities retails the company’s mid-size range of motorcycles.
      Honda Two Wheeler Sales – Aug 2021
      Semi-conductor shortage has affected supplies which could relate to longer waiting periods especially during the auspicious days of the festive season. The company is in talks with suppliers to avoid any such negative impact while are also communicating with customers who are awaiting delivery.
      Rising costs of raw material like steel and precious metals has also caused HMSI to increase prices of its models. However the company is trying to reduce cost burden to be passed on to the consumer which could adversely affect demand.
      New Launches
      HMSI introduced the new model in the 180-200cc segment. The CB200X launch was a virtual event in view of the current pandemic situation in the country. CB200X is priced at Rs 1.44 lakh and is ideally suited for city and highway touring.
      The CB200X launch marks the start of the festive season in the country but also comes in at a time when there is a supply chain crisis being experienced across the auto industry. The CB 200X is powered by a 184.4cc single cylinder, air cooled engine that also powers the Hornet 2.0 on which it offers 17.23 hp power at 8500 rpm and 16.1 Nm torque at 6000 rpm.
      Expansion Plans
      At launch of the new CB200X, the company announced that they aim to have around 7,000 customer touch points across the country over next 3 years. HMSI currently has around 6,000 sales infrastructure that includes dealerships and sales and service networks. Demand has been rising especially in Tier II and Tier III towns making it imperative to expand networks. More

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      Royal Enfield Aug 2021 Sales – Classic, Meteor, Bullet, Himalayan, 650 Twins

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      Royal Enfield Classic 350Royal Enfield dominates the 350cc motorcycle segment commanding market share of close to 95%
      In August 2021, the total of Royal Enfield’s domestic sales and exports is at 45,860 units. That’s a drop of -9%, as compared to 50,144 units in August last year. This drop is likely due to launch of all-new Classic 350. It seems like many customers had postponed their plans in wait for new Classic 350. More clarity will emerge next month when we get to see the numbers for September 2021.
      Royal Enfield 350cc Sales
      In 350cc segment, Royal Enfield currently has bikes like Classic 350, Bullet 350, Meteor 350 and Electra 350. Sales and exports in August were at 38,572 units. YoY growth is down -17%, as compared to 46,357 units in August last year.
      However, when we look at Year-to-Date data, Royal Enfield has registered strong double-digit growth. Sales and exports during the period from Apr-21 to Aug-21 is at 1,82,681 units. That’s a growth of 35%, as compared to 1,35,174 units during the same period last year.
      Royal Enfield 400cc-650cc Sales
      Beyond 350cc, Royal Enfield has the Himalayan and 650 twins (Interceptor and Continental GT). All these are among the most preferred Royal Enfield bikes in international markets. In August, sales and exports of models with engine capacity exceeding 350cc were at 7,288 units. YoY numbers have close to doubled, as compared to 3,787 units in August last year.
      Royal Enfield Sales Aug 2021
      Comparing the numbers on Year-to-Date basis, the growth is much higher at 145%. From Apr-21 to Aug-21, sales and exports of 350cc+ motorcycles are at 30,857 units. In comparison, the numbers were 12,573 units during the corresponding period last year.
      Royal Enfield exports August 2021
      In terms of volumes, the primary contributors are Meteor 350, Himalayan and 650 twins. Other bikes like Classic 350, Classic 500, and Bullet 350 are also exported. However, their numbers are much less in comparison.
      In August 2021, Royal Enfield exported a total of 6,790 units. YoY growth is at 164%, as compared to 2,573 units exported in August last year. For the period Apr-21 to Aug-21, export numbers are at 30,501 units. That’s a massive leap of 317%, as compared to 7,312 units exported during the same period last year.
      MoM growth stays buoyant
      Royal Enfield overall MoM growth (sales + exports) for August is at 4.14%. The numbers were 44,038 units in July 2021. In 350cc space, MoM growth is up by 2.71%, as compared to 37,556 units in July 2021. In 350cc+ segment, MoM growth is up by 12.43%. The numbers in July 2021 were at 6,482 units.
      Talking about domestic sales numbers, MoM growth is down -0.56% in comparison to 39,290 units sold in July 2021. In exports, MoM growth has improved by 43.01% in comparison to 4,748 units exported in July 2021.
      As the festive season has begun and will continue through November, motorcycle sales can be expected to register strong growth in the coming months. It is possible that Royal Enfield may utilize this opportunity to introduce new products in the market. Options include Hunter 350, Roadster 650, and Royal Enfield Scram. More

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      New BMW Electric Moped Is For Riders Aged 16 Or Above – 90 Kms Range

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      New BMW Electric Moped – Concept CE 02
      The new BMW electric moped has a top-speed of 90 kmph and a range of 90 kms
      BMW Motorrad has come up with an interesting urban mobility idea in the form of Concept CE 02. To be debuted at IAA 2021 in a week’s time, the BMW Concept CE 02 is an unconventional two wheeler which can neither be classified as a scooter nor as a classic motorcycle.
      A fresh approach
      BMW Motorrad’s design chief Edgar Heinrich says that the objective was to achieve a degree of design innovation hitherto unachieved while pioneering modern forms of single track mobility. The Concept CE-02 stands out from the German two wheeler firm’s current portfolio by means of its compact dimensions.
      Clearly, BMW is attempting to bring on board an entirely new breed of customers aged 16 or above who have no prior exposure to motorcycles. The uncomplicated design does manage to have a youthful character to it. The urban runabout features a thin flat saddle which also doubles up as a structural member.
      The battery pack and electric motor casing form most part of the vehicle’s chassis. Sturdy front telescopic forms and a single-sided rear shock absorber make up the suspension system while a bicycle like handlebar rounds off the design.
      New BMW Electric Moped – Concept CE 02
      The 15-inch front and rear disc-type wheels are fitted with meaty rubbers. Front and rear disc brakes are available but we expect regeneration to account for significant portion of the braking action at the rear. BMW says that the layout allows for a low center of gravity which translates into sporty riding dynamics.
      New BMW Electric Moped – Concept CE 02
      Powertrain Configuration
      Without divulging much about the technical aspects of the hardware, the company has revealed that the Concept CE 02 is powered by a 11 KW electric motor which offers a strong acceleration. The vehicle which is compatible with the European A1 license has a claimed top-speed of 90 kmph.
      The autonomy stands at 90 km, making it an ideal urban commuter. With a seat height of 730 mm and kerb weight of 120 kg, the BMW Concept CE-02 would be appealing to young audience who are interested in emotional, unconventional and tech-laden means of transport.
      New BMW Electric Moped – Concept CE 02
      The urban moped is equipped with four LED lighting elements which constitute the headlamp and two LED sheet taillights mounted on the seat frame. A tiny color digital display mounted on the handlebar serves as the instrument cluster.
      Production prospects
      BMW Motorrad has not announced any plans for putting the Concept CE-02 into production. Given that new-age urban mobility solutions are gaining traction across the world, we think the chances of commercializing this project are pretty high. In most markets, the pure electric moped may take advantage of mobility incentives and bonuses. The public feedback to the BMW Concept CE-02 would be crucial in determining its future. More

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      Hero MotoCorp Aug 2021 Sales Decline – Splendor, Passion, Maestro, Destini

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      Image – Patna BikesHero MotoCorp total sales decline reported at over 22 percent in August 2021
      Hero MotoCorp sales fell by a noticeable 22 percent in August 2021. Total fell to 4,53,879 units, down from 5,84,456 units. Volume loss stood at 1,30,577 units. Of this, motorcycle sales made up the bulk of 4,20,609 units. Sales decline stood at 22.78 percent, down from 5,44,658 units. Volume loss stood at 1,24,049 units. Scooter sales fell to 33,270 units from 39,798 units. Sales volume fell by 6,528 units at 16.40 percent decline.
      As expected, motorcycle sales contribute to over 90 percent of total sales. Best selling motorcycles include Splendor, HF Deluxe, Passion, Glamour, etc. Scooter sales continue to be a small contributor. Top sellers include Pleasure, Maestro, Destini.
      Of total sales, only 22,742 units were exported last month. This was an improvement of 44 percent YoY, up from 15,782 units at volume gain of just under 7k units. Despite sales slowdown last month, YTD FY22 total sales still stands in the green after 5 months. Total YTD sales is reported at 19,32,784 units, up from 16,62,233 units.
      Hero MotoCorp MoM August 2021 sales
      While YoY sales did take a beating, MoM sales remained more or less stable. MoM motorcycle sales fell by less than percent at 3,517 units volume decline. Motorcycle sales fell from 4,24,126 units.
      Hero MotoCorp Sales Aug 2021
      Scooter sales improved by 10 percent at volume gain of 3k units, up from 20,272 units. Total domestic sales volume improved by 1,929 units, up from 4,28,208 units. MoM exports fell by about 10 percent at volume loss of 2,448 units, down from just over 25k units exported in July 2021.
      Hero MotoCorp has been keen on increasing opportunities in export markets. While the manufacturer enjoys market dominance in the domestic market, its export contribution has been far lower than manufacturers who sell far lesser two-wheelers in India.
      Gearing up for the 2021 festive season
      As an industry, the two wheeler industry is a big one with lakhs of vehicles sold on a monthly basis. This is closely tied to the economy at all times. Market fundamentals remain positive, particularly in rural areas. Agricultural growth has picked up over the past two quarters. Harvest is expected to be above-average with bumper production of key crops including rice and pulses. The ongoing good monsoon coupled with MSPs will lead to an increase in incomes for farmers. This then fuels expectations that they will spend more on two wheelers during the upcoming festive season.
      The general outlook for now is that the more people that have their vaccinations on time, the better for all of us. Timely Covid- 19 vaccination has been recommended by WHO for all countries. With India’s population being larger than life, the need to vaccinate is even greater around us. Add to improved vaccination rate, the opening of last mile retail avenues. It portends to an improved business atmosphere, and in turn keeps protections for two wheeler sales in the green. More