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      Bajaj Chetak Electric Scooter Chennai And Hyderabad Launch Soon

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      Image – Nitish NeoBajaj Chetak electric scooter recently received a price hike of up to Rs 28k – Bookings are currently closed
      The Bajaj Chetak electric scooter, launched in January 2020 entered the electric two wheeler segment with much fanfare. It managed to garner bookings to the extent of 2,000 units but then the COVID-19 pandemic struck and sales ebbed. Till March 2021, Chetak scooter sales stood at about 1,400 units.
      Chetak’s Next Two New Cities
      This is only from two cities – Pune and Bangalore. Bajaj has not launched Chetak in any other city till now. They had plans to launch Chetak in multiple cities by end of 2020, but due to Covid19, that plan has gotten delayed.
      As on date, Bajaj Auto is only selling this e-scooter via its 13 dealerships in the cities of Pune and Bengaluru. Bajaj Auto has just announced the next two cities which will get their state of the art electric scooter. These are Chennai and Hyderabad. Both these cities are expected to get the Chetak in the next few days. Exact timeline has not been announced yet.
      Bajaj Chetak Electric Expansion Plans
      Chetak Price Hike
      Bajaj Chetak is presented in two variants of Urbane and Premium. At the time of launch in Jan 2020, these were priced at Rs.1,00,000 and Rs.1,15,000 respectively. After the recent price hike in April 2021, these variants are now priced at Rs 1,42,620 and Rs 1,44,620. All prices are ex-sh.
      Both the variants are powered by the same powertrain with the key difference being a drum brake in the Urbane. The company has also revealed future plans to make the Chetak a global brand with the first step being initiated to patent the Chetak electric design for the European markets.
      Bajaj Chetak e-scooter is powered by an electric motor producing 3.8kW/4.1kW continuous/peak power along with a 3 kWh lithium ion battery. It promises a range of 95 kms while in Eco mode and 85 km in Sports mode. The battery has a 3 year/50,000 km warranty.
      Software Update
      Bajaj recently announced a software upgrade, the first for the e-scooter since launch. This software update will see the Chetak with a more accurate range indicator. The company has been contacting owners to bring in the Chetak for the software update which has to be done by a technician at the company’s authorized service center.
      There is a diagnostic tool required for the software upgrade. A port will connect this tool to e-scooter which is located near the right hand side of the pillion footrest. The installation takes a matter of 10 minutes to install but it takes more than 24 hours to take effect.
      Steps to be followed for the software upgrade includes the complete 100 percent SoC charge of the vehicle battery. The e-scooter then has to be ridden till 15 percent SoC following which it has to rest for 12 hours and then again battery should be charged upto 100 percent SoC and again taken for a ride till 15 percent SoC. This will once again be followed by a 12 hour rest and recharge upto 100 percent SoC so as to complete the software upgrade.
      Once completed, the Chetak e-scooter will note two changes. Firstly there will be an improved accuracy in range reading. The fluctuations in actual and displayed distance to empty will be reduced particularly in the case of downhill riding. This will give the rider an accurate assessment of remaining charge. The range will also be enhanced. When taken to the test, the Bajaj Chetak with the software update could travel over a 94 km distance using 94 percent charge while the remaining 6 percent charge allowed the rider to continue till 100 kms. More

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      New Royal Enfield Classic And Hunter Spied Together – Differences Detailed

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      New RE Classic and Hunter 350The new-gen Classic 350 is likely to be Royal Enfield’s next big-ticket launch while Hunter 350 might launch towards the end of this year
      Royal Enfield is planning to launch a host of new motorcycles in the coming few years based on its new-gen J platform. The entry-level motorcycles will be powered by the new 350cc motor that currently powers Meteor 350 and will soon be extended to the next generation Classic 350 and other models in future as well.
      Among the many models in prospect, one that has grabbed attention of many is the Meteor 350 based classic roadster which is speculated to be named Hunter. A spy video uploaded by Grasholt Vlogs on YouTube shows the upcoming motorcycle in its near production-spec model alongside the upcoming new-gen Classic 350.
      New Classic 350
      At first glance, Hunter does remind us of Meteor 350 which sports a similar stance as the latter. As already mentioned, the roadster will share its underpinnings with the latest cruiser from Royal Enfield but looks a tad sportier.
      Test mules of Hunter have been frequently spied on Indian roads over the last few months. Although the motorcycle in the latest images is only partially wrapped in camouflage thereby revealing its attributes to a greater extent.
      New Hunter 350
      Retro Yet Sporty Styling
      As all Royal Enfield bikes, Hunter also carries a retro-style design with signature styling highlights such as a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, a round headlamp, a round turn taillamp with turn indicators, a single-piece seat and a short rear section.
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      Like Meteor 350, Hunter will also ride on alloy wheels but likely to be wrapped by 17-inch rubber on both ends. Other notable highlights include an upward sweeping exhaust canister, muscular front, muscular front end, split grab rails, wide tyres and redesigned side panels.
      The bike’s sporty appeal is highlighted by an all-black theme carried by its handlebar, alloy wheels, engine casing, exhaust pipe and suspension setup. The shortened muffler further accentuates its sportiness. It is likely to offer a comfortable riding position as the footpegs are centre placed with a wide raised handlebar and low saddle.
      Features
      The most highlighted attribute, however, is the semi-digital instrument console which features a Tripper Navigation Pod. Interestingly, this pod was missing in the previous set of spy shots that was leaked. Powered by Google Maps and Royal Enfield App, Tripper provides turn-by-turn navigation on the console when paired to one’s smartphone via Bluetooth. The analogue unit contains the speedometer while the digital display should read information from the odometer and fuel gauge.
      Mechanical Specs
      Powering the Hunter will be a 349cc single-cylinder air-cooled OHC engine that can push out 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm of peak torque. This motor will be paired with a 5-speed gearbox and is more refined than the previous generation 350cc engine thanks to a counter-balance shaft. Suspension duties will be handled by 35 mm telescopic forks at front and twin gas-charged shocks at rear. Stopping duties will be carried out by disc braked on both wheels assisted by dual-channel ABS.
      Upon its launch, Royal Enfield Hunter will directly rival the likes of Honda H’NEss CB350, Jawa Forty-Two and Benelli Imperiale 400. It is likely to be priced around Rs 1.80 lakh (ex-showroom). More

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      2021 Yamaha FZ-X Specs Leak Ahead Of Launch – Based On FZ 150

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      2021 Yamaha FZ-XFZ-X will help Yamaha strengthen its portfolio in 150cc-200cc motorcycle segment
      Several speculations have been put to rest with Yamaha FZ-X getting type approval certificate. Earlier, it was believed that Yamaha was planning to launch XSR 250 in the Indian market. That too may be in the works. But it’s now certain that Yamaha will be launching FZ-X first in the Indian market.
      Yamaha FZ-X design and styling
      As revealed in spy shots, Yamaha FZ-X features modern-retro styling. This could be advantageous for the motorcycle, as there’s significant consumer interest in retro themed two-wheelers.
      Some of the key features include fork gaiters, a bulkier looking, box-type fuel tank, flat seat design and short tail. The motorcycle has been equipped with alloy wheels, sleek turn indicators, digital instrument cluster, and upswept exhaust.
      Yamaha FZ-X will offer a comfortable riding stance, which will be suitable for urban commutes as well as long distance touring. It is expected that FZ-X will have multiple India-specific features to suit driving conditions and consumer preferences in the country. Yamaha has followed the same strategy for its other motorcycles such as MT15 and R15.
      2021 Yamaha FZ-X Specs
      Yamaha FZ-X powertrain and specs
      Based on FZ, Yamaha FZ-X will be using the same 149 cc engine. The air-cooled, SOHC unit is capable of generating 12.4PS of max power at 7,250 rpm and 13.3 Nm of max torque at 5,500 rpm. It is mated to a 5-speed, constant mesh transmission.
      Other hardware could also be same such as telescopic front forks and 7-step adjustable monocross rear suspension. Braking duties on FZ are performed by 282 mm disc at the front and 220 mm disc at the rear. Single channel ABS is offered as standard.
      In terms of dimensions, Yamaha FZ-X is longer, wider and taller than FZ. It measures 2020 mm in length, 785 mm in width and 1115 mm in height. In comparison, FZ measures 1,990mm x 780mm x 1,080mm (length x width x height). However, wheelbase of 1330 mm is the same for both motorcycles.
      2021 Yamaha FZ-X
      Yamaha already has a strong presence in 150cc-200cc motorcycle segment with products like FZ, R15 and MT15. Together, these motorcycles command around 20% market share in this space. In February list of bestselling 150cc-200cc motorcycles, FZ, R15 and MT15 were ranked at 4th, 5th and 6th place, respectively. Addition of FZ-X could help boost sales further.
      Talking about pricing, Yamaha FZ-X could retail at around the same price band as that of FZ. Yamaha FZ is available at a starting price of Rs 1.05 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). More

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      New Hero HF100 Launch Price Rs 49.4k – Cheaper Than Splendor, HF Deluxe

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      2021 Hero HF100Hero HF 100 motorcycle launched to give Hero MotoCorp an all new entry price point in the competitive two-wheeler market
      Commuter segment motorcycles in the 100cc-110cc segment are what make for great volumes. And manufacturers understand this rather well. So, it’s no surprise that Hero MotoCorp now has an even more affordable motorcycle in the popular segment.
      This time the brand has introduced a new entry level product, which in simple words is available for just below 50 grands ex-sh price. For the auto manufacturer, Hero HF 100 its their most affordable offering at present. The entry price point product is an entry level HF Deluxe. This gives, Hero MotoCorp a pedestal to compete against the Bajaj CT 100. The latter has a kickstart variant available at a price of Rs 44,890.
      In keeping with the opportunities the segment presents, Bajaj Bajaj CT110X was launched as a top-end CT variant earlier today. The competitive nature of the segment means manufacturers are leaving no stone unturned and covering all bases to ensure they have something for everyone.
      Hero HF 100 kickstart variant
      In keeping costs competitive, HF 100 is a kickstart and drum brake model in basic trim. Its skeletal form sucks to functionality and form over frills. Buyers will have to pick a black bike. Alloy wheels, and handlebar are in black too.
      2021 Hero HF100
      The black grab rail is slimmer. The unit does use the same 97.2cc, air-cooled engine to return 7.91bhp of power, and 8.05Nm of peak torque, paired to a four-speed gearbox. Shared features include telescopic forks, dual shock absorbers, 130mm drum brakes, and 18-inch wheels.
      The large scale commuter market has such great potential that it can be tapped into again and again. And each time, there are new buyers. Of course FY21 has been a trying period but that doesn’t undermine the potential of the segment. Hero’s 2nd best selling motorcycle, HF Deluxe is priced from Rs 50,700, ex-Delhi. Hero’s best selling motorcycle is Splendor. It is priced from Rs 62.5k, ex-Delhi.
      Segment practicality is enhanced considering such units are workhorses and could very well be a requirement for those who are keen on delivery jobs, among other things. Furthermore, current needs to shield ourselves against the spread of Covid-19 means two-wheelers can be that platform of safe daily commute.
      2021 Hero HF100
      Hero MotoCorp market dominance
      Hero MotoCorp already dominates the market in more ways than why. Whether it be their wide range of products, competitive price points and humungous sales volume, Hero has a handle on things. Its dominance will likely take long to be challenged, if at all.
      Considering their wide ranging product availability, introducing a new motorcycle as HF 100 is all about tapping into market research that determines what the market wants. Through FY21, Hero MotoCorp was able to improve its market share. More

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      2022 KTM Duke 250, Duke 125 Spied Testing – New Details Revealed

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      2022 KTM Duke 125, 250 Spied TestingKTM currently retails Duke 125 and Duke 250 in India at a price of Rs 1.51 lakh and Rs 2.17 lakh (ex-showroom)
      KTM is aggressively working towards revamping its current portfolio of products, especially the ones in the lower end of the spectrum. The lower end of KTM’s lineup (up to 400cc) has a sizeable market share in developing countries such as India. While we already know about KTM’s plan of bringing a new generation model of RC 390, it is certainly not the only which will receive a major upgrade in the near future.
      The Austrian bikemaker is also developing a new generation model of its entry-level Duke 125 along with its quarter-litre sibling Duke 250. Test prototypes of both models were recently spotted somewhere in Europe. Both motorcycles received their latest updates last year with emission standards upgraded to BS6 and Euro-5 norms.
      2022 KTM Duke 125, 250 Spied Testing
      The company also took this opportunity to provide the bikes with a few aesthetic updates. However, going by the images it looks as if the upgrades this time around will be sufficiently more prominent.
      For starters, it appears both motorcycles have ditched the looks of Duke 390 and worn bodywork of their own. Along with new styling elements, the bikes have incorporated some major changes under their skin in the form of chassis and powertrain updates.
      2022 KTM Duke 125, 250 Spied Testing
      Duke 125 Redesigned Style
      Starting with the smallest member of Duke family, KTM 125 flaunts the same two-piece frame configuration however the Trellis frame construction is visibly different with additional crossbeams making it more robust. In addition, the subframe looks much longer than the current version. It also gets a new swingarm with a new support brace that arches up and over the chain drive.
      2022 KTM Duke 125, 250 Spied Testing
      Interestingly, the Duke 125 mule spotted was not wearing any of its bodywork hence it is not possible to compare it with the current model although it does get a new headlamp unit.
      Duke 250- Mechanical Updates
      On the other, Duke 250 prototype was fully clothed with a new set of body panels giving it a new sense of identity. Unlike its smaller sibling, Duke 250 completely does away with the Trellis subframe and replaces it with a composite version in line with the flagship Duke 1290 which got upgraded earlier this year.
      2022 KTM Duke 125, 250 Spied Testing
      In accordance with the new subframe, the suspension setup now consists of a side-mounted rear shock that is starkly different from the center-mounted setup of the current iteration of Duke 250.
      The swingarm gets the same arched support brace from Duke 125. Seeing the similarity between the design of two swingarms, it is possible that the 125cc derivative could also feature a side-mounted shock at rear. Duke 125’s swingarm also boasts a new wavy design in line with the conventional trellis frame pattern. Other updates include knuckle guards at front and a redesigned headlamp unit.
      2022 KTM Duke 125, 250 Spied Testing
      Powertrain Specs
      Powertrains on both motorcycles are also expected to witness some updates. However, the nature of updates is yet to be known. Currently, Duke 125 is powered by a 124.7cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine that pumps out 14 bhp at 9,250rpm and a peak torque of 12 Nm at 8000rpm. Whereas, Duke 250 draws its energy from a 248.8cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled DOHC engine that cranks out 29 bhp at 9000rpm and 24 Nm at 7500rpm. Both units are paired with a 6-speed gearbox.
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      Suzuki Gixxer 250 Exported From India – Updated With New Colours

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      2021 Suzuki Gixxer 250Suzuki Gixxer 250 sold in Japan is built in India and is offered at a price of JPY 4,48,800 (Rs 3.09 lakh) in its home market
      Suzuki Gixxer 250, along with its faired sibling Gixxer SF250, is one of the most popular quarter-litre motorcycle pairs in the country. Interestingly, the Japanese bikemaker manufactures the motorcycle in India and also ships it to its home market.
      For 2021, Suzuki has now updated the quarter-later naked in the Land of Rising Sun. The updated naked streetfighter is now available in new colour options namely Triton Blue and Matte Black. These same liveries are currently on offer in the Indian market.
      Other than the new paint schemes, there is no difference between MY2021 and MY2020 Gixxer and the model retailed in Japan is identical to its Indian counterpart. The updated motorcycle will be launched in Japan on May 25, 2021 and will wear a price tag of JPY 448,800 that roughly translates to INR 3.09 lakh. In India though, the naked street racer is currently priced at Rs. 1.68 lakh (ex-showroom) after a recent hike earlier this month.
      Gixxer 250 Specs
      Powering the quarter-litre sporty commuter is a 249cc single overhead cam, single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine that pumps out 26.1 bhp at 9300rpm and 22.2 Nm of peak torque at 7300rpm. This unit is mated to a 6-speed gearbox.
      2021 Suzuki Gixxer 250
      Suspension setup consists of 41mm telescopic forks up front and a mono-shock at rear. Stopping duties are handled by disc brakes at both ends while a safety net is provided by dual-channel ABS.
      2021 Suzuki Gixxer 250
      It measures a kerb weight of 156kg and can hold fuel up to 12 litres. As far as features go, the naked streetfighter is equipped with a full-LED illumination and a fully digital instrument console. It also gets a neatly designed double-barrel megaphone exhaust canister.
      Its fully-faired sibling Gixxer SF 250 is now retailed at a price of Rs 178,400 while the MotoGP Edition of the same is offered at Rs 179,200 (both prices ex-showroom). Gixxer 250 competes against the likes of other quarter-litre naked motorcycles such as KTM 250 Duke, Bajaj Dominar 250 and Yamaha FZ25.
      2021 Suzuki Gixxer 250
      Suzuki Motorcycle Sales in India
      In March 2021, Suzuki Motorcycles India registered a cumulative sales volume of 69,942 units out of which 60,222 units accounted for domestic sales while the rest 9,720 units accounted for exports. The company witnessed a YoY growth of 72.11 from March last year with a total sale volume of 40,636 units. The company will launch its flagship supersport faired motorcycle the new-gen Hayabusa in India later this month. More

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      Bajaj Chetak Bookings Closed Again – Entire Batch Sold Out In 2 Days

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      Image – swift lifestyleBajaj Chetak is available in two variants of Premium and Urbane – Prices have been hiked, now start from Rs 1.42 lakh
      Bajaj Auto Limited had introduced the new Chetak electric scooter in January 2020. This not only brought back the much loved Chetak brand but also marked the foray of the company into the electric two wheeler space.
      Since the time of launch, plans to make Chetak available in more cities have faced multiple hurdles. First, it was the Covid19 induced lockdown and later, it was the shortage of parts. While lockdown issue is no longer there, but production is still on a limited basis, thanks to shortage of parts.
      Chetak Bookings Open & Close
      For most part of the year, since the launch of Chetak, it has not been on sale. The company has not been accepting bookings of their electric scooter as they do not want to amass huge booking numbers and make customers wait. Instead, they open the bookings for the next batch, as and when the existing batch of customers get delivery.
      For the next batch, Bajaj opened bookings of Chetak electric scooter on 13th April 2021. Today, on 15th April, 2021 Bajaj has announced that they have closed the bookings. In a matter of just 2 days, the entire batch of Chetak electric scooters got sold out.
      Bajaj Chetak Bookings Close
      Bajaj has not revealed the number of scooters got booked in this batch. This is what Bajaj said in a media statement, “A large number of confirmed orders were placed by customers requiring the Company to cease acceptance of bookings within 48 hours. The Company will review the supply situation and announce the next round of booking opportunity.”
      Mr. Rakesh Sharma, Executive Director at Bajaj Auto Ltd., said, “We are absolutely delighted to see the fabulous response to the re-opening of bookings for the Chetak electric scooter in Pune and Bengaluru. Covid-led disruptions last year resulted in an unintended and long waiting period but despite that we have seen very few cancellations of bookings.
      We thank our customers in Pune and Bengaluru for their patience and now this overwhelming response. We are conscious that customers would like to receive early deliveries of Chetak and start enjoying it as soon as possible, hence we have had to take the difficult decision of closing the bookings in view of continuing supply chain uncertainties. However, it is our endeavor to resolve the supply chain issues at the earliest, re-open bookings as well as roll into more cities within the next quarter.”
      Bajaj Auto Expansion Plans
      The Bajaj Chetak is only open for sale in Pune and Bengaluru while the company now plans to open bookings in more cities as they expand their electric scooter networks. Plans are to introduce the Chetak e-scooter to 30 new cities in FY2022. The company expects that production issues will be sorted over the next couple of months. The company had earlier set a target of selling 500 units per month but sales have been around 300 units per month.
      3 kWh Li-ion battery
      Bajaj Chetak is powered by a 3 kWh Li-Ion battery with a 3.8 kW electric motor. Power is rated at 5.5 hp with the e-scooter capable of delivering a range of 95 km while in Eco Mode and 85 km in Sport Mode. Charging is achieved upto 100 percent in 5 hours via a 5 Amp outlet and the bike maker offers a 3 year/50,000km warranty on the battery.
      Bajaj Chetak receives all LED head and tail lamps, LED DRLs and LED turn indicators. It also sports a digital instrument cluster with smartphone connectivity and Bluetooth, regenerative braking and 12 inch alloy wheels fitted with tubeless tyres measuring 90/90 at the front and a 90/100 at the rear. The bike receives reverse gear for tackling tight parking spots. Chetak rivals TVS iQube and Ather 450X. More

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      2021 Bajaj CT110X Launch Price Rs 55k – 4 New Colour Options

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      2021 Bajaj CT 110 X2021 Bajaj CT110X comes with extra features as a top-end variant with better stability, sturdiness, and superior rider control
      Bajaj Auto has launched the new CT110X motorcycle. The 110-cc engine offering sits on top of the variant lineup. And is available at a price of Rs 55,494 (Ex showroom – Delhi). 4 colour choices have been introduced.
      The top end CT110X variant features a wider tank, thicker crash guard, child foothold, dual texture, and dual stitched premium seats. Changes have been made where looks, performance, and sturdier build are concerned. Designed focus addresses challenging riding conditions.
      2021 Bajaj CT 110 X
      7 kg load capacity rear carrier
      Meant to offer something more than competitors in the segment, Bajaj Auto says CT110X has a bolder and muscular look. This is supported through a wider cross-section, round sturdy headlight, and an all black visor. Feature changes include thicker crash guards and moulded footholds for safety and comfort.
      Rear carrier has a load capacity of 7 kgs. The seat features a dual-texture and dual stitched finish. CT110 X features Bajaj’s 115 cc DTS-i engine and returns 6.33 kW power at 7500 rpm, and a torque of 9.81 Nm (at 5000 rpm). Semi knobby tyres, a square tube, and semi-double cradle frame are charged with stability, sturdiness, and superior rider control on any terrain.
      2021 Bajaj CT 110 X
      Value proposition
      Higher ground clearance is pegged at 170 mm to tackle varied road conditions. Wheelbase measures at 1285 mm for better stability on bad roads. Integrated tank pads and a raised front fender accentuates a modern tough look. Grey and Black colour combinations form the basis of the colour themes.
      2021 Bajaj CT 110 X
      Sarang Kanade – President, Motorcycles – Bajaj Auto said “With the launch of CT110X, we are offering a differentiated product that adds value through superior features, greater riding comfort and durability without compromising mileage.
      The new CT110X is for those who have always wanted to own a vehicle which not only looks good but is also strongly built and can take on the toughest of riding conditions. We are putting rider-centric innovation at the core of the CT brand and we are confident that our newest offering – the CT110X, will help us further serve our customers better, in this segment.”
      While manufacturers have seen some movement in wholesale numbers in recent months, sales through the last fiscal suffered big time. The 100cc-110cc motorcycle segment proves to be bread and butter for manufacturers. The strong commuter segment can grow under stable economic conditions.
      Bajaj have been queued into this market tend, and do offer a range of products to cater to varying segment needs. The addition of the newest CT110X is intended to further strengthen segment presence by being an attractive proposition to buyers. More