Bike News

Subterms

    More stories

    • 188 Shares189 Views

      in Bike

      Top 10 150cc To 200cc Motorcycles Jan 2021 – Pulsar, Apache, Unicorn 160, FZ, R15

      by

      Image – The Bengal Rider
      Close to 50% YoY growth highlights the rising popularity of 150-200cc motorcycles

      January 2021 turned out to be an exceptional month for 150-200cc motorcycles, as all have reported positive YoY and MoM growth. A total of 1,56,994 units were sold, as compared to 1,06,682 units in January last year. This is YoY growth of 47.16%. MoM growth is even better at 51.45%, as compared to 1,03,661 units sold in December 2020.
      Pulsar leads
      Bajaj Pulsar motorcycles continue to be the bestsellers in this segment. A total of 44,370 units were sold in January 2021, as compared to 38,661 units in the corresponding period last year. YoY growth is 14.77% and market share is 28.26%. Pulsar MoM growth is 57.13%, as compared to 28,237 units sold in December 2020.
      Next in the list is TVS Apache with 28,456 units sold in January 2021. YoY growth is 22.88%, as compared to 23,157 units sold in January last year. Apache had a market share of 18.13%. MoM growth is 7.24%, as compared to 26,535 units sold in December 2020.
      At number three is Honda CB Unicorn 160 with sales of 25,799 units in January 2021. YoY growth is 37.79%, as compared to 18,723 units sold in January last year. Market share is at 16.43%. In MoM terms, Unicorn 160 sales have more than doubled, as compared to 11,997 units sold in December 2020.
      Motorcycle sales 150cc-200cc segment – Jan 2021
      Yamaha FZ is placed at fourth spot with 21,496 units sold in January 2021. YoY growth is 54.02%, as compared to 13,957 units sold in January last year. FZ commanded a market share of 13.69% in January 2021. MoM growth is 51.80%, as compared to 14,161 units sold in December 2020.
      At number five is Yamaha R15 with 8,408 units sold in January 2021. YoY growth is 25.14%, as compared to 6,719 units sold in January last year. Market share stands at 5.36%. R15 MoM growth is 53.68%, as compared to 5,471 units sold in December 2020.
      Yamaha second bestselling brand in 150cc-200cc segment
      In the list, Yamaha is placed after Bajaj, TVS and Honda motorcycles. However, if we combine the numbers of FZ, R15 and MT15 (6,168 units), total sales is more than 36k and market share is 22.98%. This makes Yamaha the second bestselling brand in 150-200cc motorcycle segment. Yamaha motorcycles are made available at competitive rates and are equipped with hi-tech features, making them an attractive option in this space.
      Motorcycle sales 150cc-200cc segment – Jan 2021
      Other motorcycles in top ten include Hero Xtreme 160R (5,443 units), Honda HORNET 2.0 (4,709), Bajaj Avenger (3,092), and KTM 200 (2,979). In percentage terms, the best performing bike in top ten is Xtreme 160R. Sales have zoomed from 114 to 5,443 units, which is YoY growth of 4674.56%. Other motorcycles with high percentage growth include Suzuki Gixxer (4880.39%), Hero XPulse 200 (1158.99%), and Hero X Blade (1603.00%). More

    • 188 Shares99 Views

      in Bike

      2021 KTM RC 200, 125 Spied Testing In India For First Time – New Gen

      by

      2021 KTM RC 200 / 125 Spied in India – New Gen
      The 2020 KTM RC 200 and its family members will feature revised rear sub-frame and new fairing panels

      The next generation KTM RC family of compact fully faired sportsbikes have been in the news for quite sometime now. The RC 125, 200 and 390 are much older than their Duke siblings but that is going to chance soon.
      A camouflaged prototype of what appears to be either 2021 KTM RC 200 or 125 has been spied testing in India for the first time. Images are credit to Wheel Tronicz on Instagram.
      2021 KTM RC 200 / 125 Spied in India – New Gen
      2021 KTM RC 200 – New styling
      We think this prototype is either an RC 200 or 125 because the RC 390 prototypes which were spotted testing in Europe featured a conventional side slung exhaust canister to meet the stringent emission norms. This particular mule continues to employ underbelly exhaust indicating that a smaller displacement motor does not need larger catalytic converter and hence can manage with an underbelly unit.
      As with the new KTM RC 390, the smaller engined siblings will feature a completely overhauled styling. The new headlamp is in-line with the brand’s new design identity and the fairing around it has a slightly larger surface area than before.
      2021 KTM RC 200 / 125 Spied in India – New Gen
      On the sides, the panels are more revealing than before. For example, the current motorcycle hides the base of the crank case but the upcoming model makes no attempt at concealing it.
      The bodywork is sharper than before but there is an awkward gap between the steering mount and the instrument console which may take a bit of getting used too. Another important change is the rear sub-frame but the tailpiece appears to be retained without significant styling changes. KTM has reportedly worked on making the 2021 RC family more comfortable for taller riders, so expect considerable change in ergonomics.
      Specifications at a glance
      The New Gen KTM RC 200, or the 125 and 390 for that matter, is likely to retain the engine without any change. In case of the RC 200, the existing 199.5 cc liquid-cooled mill dishes out a healthy 25 hp and 19.2 Nm of torque. Transmission is a 6-speed unit. Despite no changes, the motor will still be the most powerful unit in its segment.
      2021 KTM RC 200 / 125 Spied in India – New Gen
      The trellis frame will continue to employ WP inverted telescopic front fork and rear monoshock suspension system. The 2021 KTM RC 200 and its brethren adopt new front disc brake whose rotor is mounted to the spokes rather than the wheel hub. The India-spec RC 200 is expected to carry forward a single-channel ABS to keep the costs in check while the export-spec variant is likely to offer dual-channel system as a standard fitment.
      The 2021 KTM RC 200, 390 and 125 will be made in India at Bajaj Auto’s Chakan facility for global consumption. India is expected to be the launch market for the new generation family of compact sportsbikes. Launch is expected sometime later this year. More

    • 138 Shares199 Views

      in Bike

      Royal Enfield GT 650 RS Custom In Association With Crazy Garage

      by

      Royal Enfield GT 650 RS Custom
      This custom-built RE Continental GT 650 is a tribute to naked race bikes of the 1980s

      Lot of Royal Enfield owners love aftermarket customisation. This has resulted in RE having a dedicated division that looks to tap into all beautifully developed custom motorcycles. The Chennai-based bikemaker even invites designers and modifiers to showcase their skills on a Royal Enfield bike and etch their names in the global motoring world.
      Recently, the company commissioned a custom-built Continental GT 650 race bike made by Crazy Garage in South Korea. It has been personally built by the founder of Crazy Garage, Kim Chi-Hyun, who is renowned for his race-inspired customs and has made a name for himself in the west too.
      Royal Enfield GT 650 RS Custom
      Development of GT 650 RS
      His skills caught the attention of Royal Enfield’s head office, who asked him to build this GT 650. Aditya Malaker, who is part of Royal Enfield’s custom program team said that they have been closely watching Crazy Garage for some time now.
      Chin-hyun already has made a custom GT 650 to race but this new bike is a whole new beast altogether. Re-christened ‘GT 650 RS’, this Continental GT 650 is one of the most heavily modified Royal Enfield bikes we have come across.
      Royal Enfield GT 650 RS Custom
      Overall styling of GT 650 RS reminds us of the glory days of AMA superbike racing of the 1980s before fairing became the standard norm in motorsport. When Royal Enfield contacted Chin-Hyun, he was asked to build a custom motorcycle that is unique in style and yet keeps the original DNA of Continental GT which is ready to hit the tracks. Apart from the engine, which has seen a fair share of mods itself, it is safe to say none of the components have been carried over from the donor bike.
      Customised Design & Hardware
      All parts are custom-built starting from the handlebar, frame, a single-piece stepped-up seat, etc. It gets custom free-flowing dual exhaust pipes on the same side. Being a track-focused bike, ABS and all extravagant electronics have been removed.
      It gets a simple instrument cluster consisting of a STACK analogue racing tachometer and a Yoshimura digital temperature gauge. A Lithium-ion battery has been used to supply energy to a small halogen headlight, LED taillamp and the starter motor.
      Royal Enfield GT 650 RS Custom
      The most significant mod job is the new custom fuel tank which has to be hidden underneath the seat. It has been made from thin-gauge steel and installed on a new fiber-reinforced plastic tail section that has been welded to the modified rear frame.
      It is evident that focus has been laid on functionality instead of looks. Its hardware wears a completely different look with the custom-built frame suspended on Custom 43 USD forks at front and a TTX mono-shock at rear from Öhlins.
      Royal Enfield GT 650 RS Custom
      The rear shock absorber is now attached to a single-sided swingarm borrowed from a 90s Honda VFR400R. Anchorage is taken care of by a Brembo system at front consisting of calipers, new rotors and an RCS master cylinder. Custom carbon ducts have been incorporated to keep the discs cool under pressure.
      Powertrain Customisation
      The primary customisation has been made to its heart which comprises new cycle parts such as a hot camshaft, high compression pistons and a heavy-duty clutch. Fueling is managed by a Dynojet Power Commander that compensates for the absence of an airbox. Its oil cooler has been repositioned to the front of the motorcycle in-line with other race-spec bikes.
      All these modifications must have surely amplified the engine’s output quite a notches higher, although exact figures haven’t been revealed. For reference, Continental GT 650 gets a 648cc parallel-twin motor which cranks out 47 bhp and 52 Nm of peak torque.

      Images Source More

    • 100 Shares199 Views

      in Bike

      Vespa Celebrates 75th Anniversary With Special Edition Scooters

      by

      2021 Vespa 75th Yr Anniversary Special Edition
      In the new 75th Anniversary Edition, the Vespa scooters are offered with many aesthetic additions

      Piaggio is celebrating 75 years of its existence in global automotive markets by introducing new special edition models of its subsidiary brand of scooters Vespa. The Italian automaker has revealed two special edition variants based on Vespa GTS and Vespa Primavera trims and the series has been named 75th.
      The scooters will be available in both 125cc and 300cc iterations and go on sale this month and will remain on sale only throughout this year. These special edition models feature updated cosmetics which make them unique. Otherwise, they are similar to the regular models.
      2021 Vespa 75th Yr Anniversary Special Edition
      Updated Cosmetics
      Vespa was first launched back in 1946 and the new 75th series model receives a metallic yellow body paint scheme called “Giallo 75th” which is reminiscent of its original colour. Side body panels and front mudguards flaunt the number 75 in a slightly darker shade of the same colour.
      It also gets a special badging on the front glove box displaying the brand’s name and its years of 75 years of existence. The scooters also receive a signature Vespa tie recoloured in opaque pyrite yellow at the front apron.
      2021 Vespa 75th Yr Anniversary Special Edition
      The single-piece seat is trimmed in nubuck leather with piping while it rides on grey alloy wheels with a diamond finish. There is plenty of chrome detailing all around the scooter including the badging on rear-view mirrors, front mudguard, exhaust muffler and instrument cluster surround. The GTS trim gets foldaway footpegs which are also embellished.
      Features & Accessories
      In addition, the special edition Vespa also gets a chrome-laced rear luggage rack that houses a large circular leather bag and mimics a spare wheel holder. The bag is also made of nubuck leather and of the same colour as the scooter’s saddle and comes with a quick-release mechanism. In terms of features, both special models in the 75 series are equipped with a 4.3-inch fully digital TFT colour display housing all functions compatible with the Vespa MIA smartphone connectivity system.
      In order to make it a special experience for buyers, each scooter in this special edition range will be offered with a welcome kit which consists of an Italian silk scarf, personalised owners book, a vintage steel Vespa plate and eight collector postcards signifying eight decades of Vespa history. Pisces of these new models haven’t been revealed by the Italian two-wheeler manufacturer as of yet, but we expect more information to be thrown into light, ahead of its international debut which is expected to take place in a month and a half.
      We do hope that Piaggio does give it a thought about bringing the special edition Vespa models to India sometime later this year. Currently, Piaggio retails nine Vespa models in India such as SXL 125, Vespa VXL 125 and Vespa ZX 125 including others. More

    • 213 Shares139 Views

      in Bike

      Top 10 Electric Two Wheeler Sales Feb 2021 – Hero Electric 1st, Ather 4th, Bajaj Chetak 9th

      by

      Ather Electric Scooter
      Currently, there are more than twenty OEMs in the two-wheeler electric mobility space in India with new brands to come in the near future

      With multiple electric vehicle (EV) offerings in the two-wheeler segment in India, it is evident that future of mobility is electric. A total of 6,059 units of electric two-wheelers was sold in February 2021 against 2,243 units sold during the same month last year. Thus resulting in YoY growth of 170.1 percent.
      Hero Electric, Okinawa Lead EV Segment
      Hero Electric was the leader of the segment with as many as 2,201 two-wheelers sold last month. During the same period last year, Hero sold 614 units witnessing a YoY growth of 258.5 percent and a market share (MS) of 36.3 percent.
      They were followed by Okinawa electric with a total sales of 1059 units last month – recording a YoY growth of 59.5 percent with an MS of 29.6 percent. Hero Electric and Okinawa were the only two OEMs to breach the 1000-mark last month. Ampere was able to retail 800 units in February this year against last year’s 286 units, therefore, witnessing a growth of 179.7 percent and an MS of 13.2 percent.
      Ather Energy continued to post sales growth despite of having only 1 scooter on offer – Ather 450X. The Bengaluru-based startup sold only 624 units last month as opposed to 368 units sold in February 2020. This resulted in YoY growth of 69.1 percent and an MS of 16.5 percent.
      Electric Two Wheeler Sales Feb 2021. Source – FADA
      Pure EV is a relatively new player in the Indian market and did well to take the fifth spot. It sold 404 EVs last month accounting for 6.7 percent of MS. Benling India sold 254 units of electric two-wheelers last month thereby accounting for an MS of 4.2 percent.
      TVS, Bajaj catching up
      TVS made its entry into the EV segment last year with iQute electric scooter. It was able to retail only 208 units of the e-scooter in February this year and resulting in an MS of 3.4 percent. Jitendra New EV sold only 124 units last month and has an MS of 2.0 percent.
      Bajaj, the Chakan-based manufacturer made its entry into the segment with Chetak Electric scooter in 2019. Being one of the largest two wheeler maker in India, it was surprising to see Bajaj lagging at ninth place with just 111 units retailed last month.
      No
      Electric 2Wheeler
      Feb-21
      Feb-20
      Growth%
      1
      Hero Electric
      2,201
      614
      258.47
      2
      Okinawa
      1,059
      664
      59.49
      3
      Ampere
      800
      286
      179.72
      4
      Ather Energy
      624
      369
      69.11
      5
      PureEV
      404
      0
      –
      6
      Benling
      254
      5
      4980.00
      7
      TVS
      208
      0
      –
      8
      Jitendra New EV
      124
      5
      2380.00
      9
      Bajaj
      111
      25
      344.00
      10
      MEW Electricals
      80
      0
      –
      11
      Revolt
      70
      155
      -54.84
      12
      Goreen E-mobility
      45
      2
      2150.00
      13
      Ira Edutech
      11
      3
      266.67
      14
      M2GO Electric
      6
      0
      –
      15
      NDS Eco Motors
      5
      51
      -90.20
      16
      Odysse Electric
      5
      0
      –
      17
      Supereco Auto
      4
      0
      –
      18
      Avan Motors
      3
      22
      -86.36
      19
      SBTEK E Moto
      2
      0
      –
      20
      Others
      43
      42
      2.38
      –
      Total
      6,059
      2,243
      170.13
      New Future Brands in India
      All the other models resulted in a sales volume of fewer than 100 units. Upcoming brands such as Ola Electric and Kabira will soon make their debuts in India in the electric mobility space and things could become interesting. Although we believe it will take some time for Indian consumers to warm up to the idea of owning a battery-powered vehicle instead of conventional fossil fuel-powered vehicles. This is primarily because of limited charging infrastructure in the country presently.
      But the times are changing rapidly. In a few years from now, the sales number of EVs are expected to increase exponentially. Most of the EV makers are currently battling problems like shortage of parts, very few dealer outlets, etc. But many of them are already working on increasing production, dealer network, launching EVs in more cities, etc.
      Bajaj has plans to launch Chetak in more cities, launch KTM / Husqvarna electric scooter / motorcycle. Hero, Yamaha, Suzuki and even Royal Enfield have plans to enter the EV segment. Apart from the big brands, there are many new brands who have either entered or have plans to enter – making the EV space one to watch out for in the coming years. More

    • 100 Shares99 Views

      in Bike

      Honda CB350RS First Batch Owners Start Taking Delivery

      by

      Honda CB350RS Arriving At Dealer. Image – Motovin77
      CB350 RS is Honda’s second locally manufactured motorcycle in India which is retailed through its premium chain of dealerships BigWing

      Honda launched the roadster version of CB350 last year and now they have launched a more sporty variant called CB350RS. While most of the bike is identical to its classic sibling, it does feature some cosmetic variations that help distinguish itself as a sportier iteration of the former. Now, the Japanese bikemaker has commenced deliveries of RS to dealerships across the country.
      Like its sibling, CB350 RS is exclusively retailed through the company’s premium chain of dealerships- BigWing which has limited footprints across India. The bike was launched in a single variant with two colour options at a price of Rs 1.96 lakh (ex-showroom) which makes it Rs 4,000 costlier than DLX Pro trim of H’Ness CB350.
      Honda CB350 RS First Batch Delivery Starts
      Cosmetic Differences
      The bikemaker currently operates a total of only 32 BigWing dealerships in India currently- 6 BigWing Toplines and 26 standard BigWing dealerships. CB350 RS looks like a sportier version of H’Ness CB350 where RS stands for ‘Road Sailing’. It gets redesigned side panels and a revised tail section along with an all-black treatment on various body parts. Texture of the seat, as well as its cushioning, has been updated.
      This iteration of CB350 also gets two separate grab rails for the pillion which are bolted to the rear fender unlike H’Ness which gets a single-piece grab rail. The footpegs are also a little rear-set with a slightly smaller handlebar which provides an aggressive lean forward riding posture.
      [embedded content]
      The frame, chassis, and other mechanical components are covered in a beautiful all-black theme that accentuates CB350 RS’s sporty nature. In addition, an engine bash plate and a wider rear tyre with a block pattern further distinguish the RS from H’Ness CB350.
      Same Mechanicals
      Both H’Ness CB350 and CB350 Rs share the same powertrain and hardware setup. They draw their power from a 348cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine which puts out 20.8 bhp at 5,500rpm with 30 Nm of peak torque at 3,000rpm. This unit is mated to a 5-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch.
      Suspension setup consists of conventional telescopic forks at front and dual shock absorbers at rear. Braking is taken care of by disc brakes at both ends while safety net is provided by a dual-channel ABS.
      Features on offer
      In terms of dimensions, both motorcycles are identical to each other, however, CB350 RS is lighter by 2 kilos. Coming to its features, CB350 RS like its classic sibling also comes with Honda Selectable Torque Control System (HSTC) which is essentially Honda’s version of traction control. However, it misses out on Bluetooth connectivity as offered in H’Ness CB350. It is available in two paint schemes- a mono-tone Radiant Red Metallic and a dual-tone Black with Pearl Sports Yellow. The latter costs Rs 2000 more than the former. More

    • 125 Shares119 Views

      in Bike

      2021 TVS Apache 160 Updated – More Torque, Less Weight

      by

      2021 TVS Apache 160
      TVS Apache RTR 160 4V locks its horns with Hero Xtreme 160R and Bajaj Pulsar NS160

      TVS currently seems to be on a spree to update its Apache series of sporty commuter motorcycles. After the updated 2021 Apache RTR 200 4V, the Hosur-based bikemaker has now launched the 2021 Apache RTR 160 4V. Available in two variants- Drum brake and Disc brake variants, the latest iteration of the bike has been priced at Rs 1.07 lakh and Rs 1.10 lakh respectively (both prices ex-showroom).
      This means there is no increase in prices when compared to the older model. It will be offered in three colour schemes namely- Racing Red, Knight Black and Metallic Blue. Apart from a handful of cosmetic updates it also gets a slight tweak in its powertrain output as well.
      TVS Apache Prices March 2021 (Ex-Delhi)
      Cosmetic Updates
      The naked streetfighter now comes with an all-new dual-tone seat with a carbon fiber-styled pattern. It has also managed to shed 2 kilos and now tips the weighing scales at 147 kg for the disc brake variant, while the drum brake variant weighs 145 kg.
      The updated RTR 160 4V comes with a reshaped LED headlamp with claw-styled position lamps that add to its overall premium appeal. The cosmetic changes are limited to these updates only. Take a look at the official TVC of new Apache 160 below.
      [embedded content]
      Boost in Output
      However, the manufacturer has also managed to alter the output from its motor. The updated naked motorcycle is powered by a 159.7 cc, single-cylinder, 4-valve, oil-cooled engine that now kicks out 17 bhp at 9250 rpm and 14.73 Nm torque at 7250 rpm.
      This is a bump of 1 bhp and 1 Nm which makes it the most powerful bike in its segment. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. The bump in the motor’s output plus the reduction in its weight means an increase in power to weight ratio and will be interesting to see the impact created in its riding experience.
      On the occasion of the launch, Meghashyam Dighole, Head – (Marketing) Premium Motorcycles, TVS Motor Company, said, “The new 2021 TVS Apache RTR 160 4V offers best-in-class performance with enhanced power to weight ratio and increased torque, offering our customers better-riding experiences along with advanced technologies.”
      Features on offer
      The equipment list on the bike has not been altered as it continues to offer the same set of features including a fully digital instrument panel compatible with SmartXconnect technology. This feature allows riders to connect their smartphones with the instrument console for functionalities such as turn-by-turn navigation and phone-related operations. It also gets a ‘feather touch’ start for increased convenience. Apache RTR 160 4V competes against Bajaj Pulsar NS160 and Hero Xtreme 160R. More

    • 150 Shares199 Views

      in Bike

      Jawa 42 Owners Can Upgrade To Alloys, Bar-End Mirrors For Rs 8k

      by

      Jawa 42 Customization Offer
      Jawa Forty-Two rivals other retro-style motorcycles such as Royal Enfield Classic 350, Benelli Imperiale and Honda H’Ness and CB350

      Classic Legends are providing a golden opportunity to consumers of the older iteration of Jawa 42 to upgrade the bike’s cosmetics to the latest 2.1 iteration. Under this Golden Scheme, customers would get blacked-out bar-end mirrors, blacked-out alloy wheels and tubeless tyres at just Rs 7,999. This offer is only applicable till 31st of March, 2021. After this, prices will increase to Rs 14,498.
      Jawa Forty-Two 2.1
      The company recently reached a major landmark as its registered 50,000 production units. To mark this momentous occasion, Classic Legends has decided to give an update to its highest-selling product. The new Jawa Forty Two has been priced at Rs 1.84 lakh (ex-showroom).
      For 2021, Jawa Forty Two comes with three new additional colour options including  Matte Red, Matte Black and White. Along with new paint schemes, there are a bunch of cosmetic updates in the latest iteration of the retro-style classic motorcycle.
      Updates in Forty-Two 2.1
      Along with new colour schemes, the updated lineup of Forty Two adopts a darker theme with blacked-out alloy wheels instead of conventional wire-spoke wheels. Along with new alloy wheels, the bike also gets blacked-out mechanical components such as engine-gearbox assembly, exhaust pipes, front and rear suspension units, headlamp bezel and turn indicators which are otherwise embellished in chrome. Even leg guards, handlebar and radiator have been blackened.
      Jawa 42 Customization Offer
      Other updates include a new stitching pattern for its seat. Jawa has also updated the seat pan by employing high-density foam which makes it much more supportive for longer rides. It gets a contrasting gray stripe on its fuel tank with ‘42’ branding.
      It also receives a blacked-out instrument dial which gives basic info from the speedometer and odometer. The new range of Forty Two also gets optional accessories that are laced in matte black such as a single-piece grab rail for the pillion, a tinted visor and a headlamp grille.
      Apart from these updates, the new Jawa Forty-Two is very much similar to the more traditional version of the classic roadster which is filled with chrome. The new range of Forty Two will be sold alongside the conventional derivative Forty Two. Classic Legends, as it looks, has gone the Royal Enfield way in offering a sportier looking iteration for its retro motorcycle as the latter did with Thunderbird by introducing Thunderbird X series.
      Powertrain Specs
      Jawa has made slight changes to its powertrain which makes it slightly more powerful than the conventional Forty Two. It is powered by the same BS6 compliant 293cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine although by using a cross-port technology, this motor now pushes out 27.3 bhp and 27.05 Nm of peak torque. This unit is offered with a 6-speed gearbox. Hardware setup on the bike has also remained same. It will be offered in two variants- single-channel ABS and dual-channel ABS. More