Bike News

Subterms

    More stories

    • 125 Shares189 Views

      in Bike

      2021 Royal Enfield Himalayan First Batch Delivery Starts Across India

      by

      Image – Nidhin
      2021 RE Himalayan adventure tourer gets three colour options, Tripper Navigation and Make It Yours personalization options

      Royal Enfield has launched the new Himalayan adventure tourer in India. It is priced from Rs 2.01 lakh, ex-sh; and comes in with some feature updates and technology while engine remains unchanged. Deliveries have commenced across India. First batch owners have now taken delivery of new Himalayan.
      Colour Updates on 2021 RE Himalayan
      The new RE Himalayan gets some design changes and new colours. It is seen in colour options of Mirage Silver, Pine Green and New Granite Black (in a mix of matte and gloss) along with existing colours of Rock Red, Lake Blue and Gravel Grey.
      Though the instrument cluster layout and design remain unchanged, it sees the addition of a Tripper Navigation Pod. The new tripper navigation was first seen on the Meteor 350. This system allows users to get turn by turn directions which can be connected to the rider’s smartphone.
      Tripper Navigation is powered by Google Maps and Royal Enfield App. Feature updates also include tank guards which double up as carriers for extra fuel tanks or luggage while a luggage rack is added at the rear as a part of these updates.
      Image – Nidhin
      The 2021 RE Himalayan is priced depending on its colour options. The Mirage Silver and Gravel Grey variants are priced at Rs.2,36,286. The Lake Blue, Rock Red and Granite Black carry price tags of Rs. 2,40,285 while the top of the line Pine Green colour is priced at Rs.2,44,284. These are on-road Delhi prices.
      Seating is seen in high density foam and finished in optional Tan colour scheme offering not only better comfort over longer distances but also a striking colour contrast as well. New and improved windscreen protects the rider from the blast of wind relating to a more comfortable ride. It also receives a rear carrier with an additional plate for fastening any luggage and an ergonomic front rack offers better comfort to the rider.
      Royal Enfield has also updated the new Himalayan with Make-it-Yours feature allowing customers to personalize and accessorize their motorcycles which can be accessed through the RE App, the company website or at authorized dealerships.
      RE Himalayan Engine, Suspension and Braking
      Like its earlier counterpart launched in 2016, the Himalayan gets its power via a 411cc, single cylinder, 4 stroke, air cooled engine. This engine makes 24.83 hp power at 6,500 rpm and 32 Nm torque at 4,000-4,500 rpm and gets mated to a 5 speed gearbox. It receives telescopic fork in the front and mono-shock at the rear while braking is via dual channel anti-lock braking system with ABS switchable on the rear wheel for better off-road use
      Upcoming RE Launches
      Earlier this year, Royal Enfield revealed that they would be expanding their product portfolio with one new bike in the 250-750cc every three months. The new RE Classic 350 is expected to launch in April 2021 which will be followed by the launch of the Interceptor 350, Cruiser 650. Facelifted Interceptor/ Continental 650 are also expected this year. More

    • 163 Shares169 Views

      in Bike

      Stolen KTM Motorcycle Found In Just 30 Hours – Owner Thanks Mumbai Police

      by

      Image – Sujay Shivan Warrier / HVK
      Vehicle theft is a big problem, with maximum number of cases remaining unsolved

      Having one’s motorcycle stolen can be a hugely stressful experience. It not only results in financial loss, the owner also has to follow a tedious process of lodging an FIR and following up with police officials. Till they find their vehicle or buy a new one, their everyday routines could go for a toss.
      However, such experiences can also bring joy if the motorcycle is found within a reasonable time limit. Most vehicle theft cases go unsolved, but some lucky ones do get their possessions back.
      How KTM got stolen
      In a recent case that had a happy ending, a KTM owner has been able to find his stolen motorcycle in just around 30 hours. This is remarkable considering the fact that some stolen vehicles are recovered months or even years after they were stolen.
      In this particular case, the owner had left the keys on the bike. This made it easier for the thieves to put their plans into action. The culprits have not been caught yet, so it’s not certain what they intended to do with the motorcycle. It is possible that the theft could be the work of some random people who came across an opportunity and acted on it.
      Owner shares update about his stolen KTM motorcycle
      In the past, there have been cases where youngsters were found to be stealing premium motorcycles just for fun rides. Once they had exhausted the fuel, they would simply ditch the bike and leave. In comparison, hard-core vehicle thieves are in the business purely for money. The stolen vehicle is either sold in remote locations at cheap rates or parts are removed and sold in black market.
      In this case, there’s a greater possibility that amateurs were involved in the theft. The owner has stated that the culprits have been captured on CCTV and the police are actively looking for them. Their intentions will be revealed when they are caught and questioned by the police.
      Owner thanks Mumbai Police
      Expressing his gratitude, the KTM owner has thanked Mumbai Police (Juhu Branch) for finding his bike in a prompt manner. It is likely that the police had used their network of informers to trace the motorcycle.
      The bike had eye-catchy decals, which could have made it easier to spot it. Had it been a standard KTM, the job to identify it would have become a lot more challenging. That’s because there are quite a few of these in streets of Mumbai.
      Lessons learned, the owner will surely double-check here onwards, not to leave the keys on his motorcycle. It’s also necessary to ensure that KTM’s inbuilt GPS system is in working condition and related services have not expired. It’s not clear if the GPS was active in this case or if it was used to trace the stolen motorcycle. More

    • 175 Shares169 Views

      in Bike

      Ather Space Now In Pune – Watch 450x Electric Scooter Manufacturing At New Factory

      by

      Ather 450X Electric Scooter At New Factory
      The new Ather Energy Plant in Hosur is spread over 123,000 sq ft with annual capacity 1,10,000 scooters and 1,20,000 battery packs

      Ather Energy moves to a new manufacturing unit in Hosur, Tamil Nadu from a smaller plant in Bengaluru. Production commenced at this plant on 2nd January and deliveries have also been initiated across cities of Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Chennai, and Hyderabad.
      This new Hosur plant is spread over an area of 1,23,000 sq ft and has installed capacity of 5 lakh units per annum. It is from this plant that Ather has started production of the 450X and 450 Plus e-scooters while the plant will also build the lithium-ion batteries used in these offerings.
      Mega Factory
      The new plant would help to create job opportunities in the region with over 4,000 persons being trained for the EV sector over the next 5 years. Investments have also been planned over the next 5 years at Rs.635 crores while 90 percent of production is localized in India as a part of the Government of India’s Make in India policy.
      The new Hosur plant will have annual capacity of 1,10,000 scooters and 1,20,000 battery packs which will be a massive improvement over the company’s current annual production volumes that stand at 35,000-40,000 units. Take a look at the short video giving us a tour of Ather’s Mega Factory and the making of their electric scooter.
      [embedded content]
      Ather Energy Expansion Plans
      Ather Energy has started deliveries of the 450 X and 450 Plus e-scooters to a few cities across India. Plans are to have a presence in 27 cities in 15 states of Bangalore, Chennai, Mumbai, Pune, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kochi, Coimbatore, Kolkata, Calicut, Ahmedabad, Mysore, Hubli, Jaipur, Indore, Panaji, Bhubaneshwar, Nasik, Surat, Chandigarh, Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, Guwahati, Nagpur, Noida, Lucknow, and Siliguri, while targets are set to expand to 40 cities by the end of this year.
      The Hosur plant has received the support of the Tamil Nadu government. It is built on the Industry 4.0 principals and boast of the most advanced solutions in technology, human assets, systems and processes.
      Ather also plans on making the factor ‘Smart’ with Smart algorithms to read data collected and make interpretations along with a highly efficient end to end supply chain which integrates the company’s processes, logistics, warehousing, quality checks and production right upto dispatch.
      Ather Space Pune – Now open
      Ather Energy only OEM to Make Own Battery Packs
      Ather Energy plant in Hosur will also have the capacity to produce 1,20,000 battery packs thus making the company the only EV OEM in India to manufacture their own batteries and have also filed 13 patents on the design and manufacture of these lithium ion batteries used to power the Ather 450X and 450 Plus.
      Zero effluents are generated at the new Hosur plant and all e-waste is handled by authorized recyclers while there is zero water discharge from production thanks to an in-house STP and treated water circulation for flush and plantation. More

    • 125 Shares189 Views

      in Bike

      New Honda CB350RS vs Honda CB350 – Top Differences Explained

      by

      New Honda CB350RS
      Expanding the CB range, Honda has added the sportier CB350RS in the Indian market

      At a time when rival Royal Enfield has a lot more options for customers in 350cc segment, it’s an onerous task for CB350 to take on the giant on its own. Things could improve in the future, as CB350 gets company in the form of CB350RS.
      Built on Road Sailing (RS) concept, CB350RS is essentially a sportier version of CB350 classic roadster. To understand each motorcycle’s capabilities, here’s a quick look at the key differences between Honda CB350 vs. CB350RS.
      CB350 vs. CB350RS – Design
      Based on the same platform, CB350RS does look similar to CB350. However, RS is a lot more stylish, as is evident in the headlamp ring, snazzy eye-shaped LED winkers, blacked-out components, sleek tuck and roll saddle, and underseat LED tail lamp. Other key changes in RS include fork boots on front suspension and sleek grab rail, which enhance the motorcycle’s sporty profile. Another differentiating factor for RS is its skid plate and wider tyres with block pattern.
      Talking about colour options, CB350 is offered in three single tone and three dual-tone colour options. CB350 DLX variant is available in Precious Red Metallic, Matte Marshal Green Metallic and Pearl Night Star Black colour options. The DLX Pro variant is offered in dual-tone options of Matte Steel Black Metallic With Matte Massive Grey Metallic, Athletic Blue Metallic With Virtuous White and Pearl Night Star Black With Spear Silver Metallic.
      New Honda CB350RS
      In comparison, RS variant currently has only one single tone (Radiant Red Metallic) and one dual-tone (Black with Pearl Sports Yellow) colour option. It is possible that Honda may introduce new colours for RS variant at a later date based on market feedback.
      CB350 vs. CB350RS – Features and powertrain
      Both motorcycles share a range of features such as segment-first assist and slipper clutch, advanced digital analogue meter, and Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC). The instrument panel displays battery voltage, gear position, real time mileage, average mileage and distance to empty. Features like front and rear disc brakes, ABS, half-duplex cradle frame, suspension and side stand indicator with engine inhibitor are also the same.
      However, RS variant misses out on Honda Smartphone Voice Control (HSVC), which is available with CB350 DLX Pro. HSVC enables pairing with user’s smartphone via Bluetooth. It can be used for accessing features like telephony, music, and turn-by-turn navigation. Honda also sells a special headset as an accessory that can be used with DLX Pro for managing smartphone via voice commands.
      [embedded content]
      Both motorcycles use the same 350cc single cylinder, air-cooled engine that generates 21 bhp power and 30 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox.
      CB350 vs. CB350RS – Pricing
      At Rs 1.96 lakh, CB350RS is a bit costlier. CB350 DLX and DLX Pro are priced at Rs 1,86,500 and Rs 1,92,500, respectively (ex-showroom, Delhi). More

    • 138 Shares179 Views

      in Bike

      2021 Bajaj Pulsar 180 At Dealer Showroom – First Look Walkaround

      by

      2021 Bajaj Pulsar 180. Image – Auto Travel Tech
      In addition to switching back to the familiar bikini fairing, the 2021 Bajaj Pulsar also gets updated digi-analog instrument console and bold decals

      Back in 2018, Bajaj discontinued its popular Pulsar 180 variant with 180F which came equipped with 220F’s semi-fairing. The addition of fairing with projector headlamps permitted Bajaj to optimize the large Pulsar family’s tight market positioning with respect to each other. However, things have been evolving in the 150 to 200 cc motorcycle market and it seems the Pune-based two wheeler major has decided to roll back the change two years later.
      2021 Bajaj Pulsar 180
      The 2021 Bajaj Pulsar 180 with the original bikini fairing has started reaching dealerships, indicating that the official launch is not far away. It will be on sale alongside the semi-faired 180F, which is priced about Rs 9k more. Price of the Pulsar 180 is Rs 1.05 lakh ex-sh while that of the 180F is Rs 1.14 lakh, ex-sh.
      The new Pulsar 180 adopts the classic family styling but gets unique contrast decals on the fener, fuel tank extensions, tailpiece and belly pan. The headlamp housing appears to have been tweaked slightly but there are no other noteworthy visual changes.
      The digi-analog instrument console has been borrowed from the 220F. The blue backlit digital display unit offers multiple information including speed, distance to empty, fuel efficiency, side-stand status, odometer service reminder, and so on.
      2021 Bajaj Pulsar 180. Image – Auto Travel Tech
      Specifications
      Given that the Bajaj Pulsar family received BS6 updates only last year, we don’t expect the 2021 Pulsar 180 to have any significant changes to its powertrain specifications. To recap, the premium commuter is powered by a 178.6 cc air-cooled, fuel-injected engine which is mated to a 5-speed transmission. Power and torque figures stand at 17 hp and 14.52 Nm of torque.
      The 2021 Bajaj Pulsar 180 carries forward the traditional telescopic front forks, twin rear shock absorbers, front and rear disc brakes with single-channel ABS, and 17-inch alloy wheels.
      Market positioning
      The continued success of TVS Apache RTR 180 and the advent of Honda Hornet 2.0 has prompted Bajaj to reposition its Pulsar 180. Ditching the semi-fairing and reverting back to the bikini unit would lead to a considerable price drop. The 2021 Bajaj Pulsar 180 with aggressive pricing will take the fight to its rivals. Take a look at the detailed walkaround video by AUTO TRAVEL TECH below.
      [embedded content]
      The Pulsar 180F did not manage meet Bajaj’s sales expectations despite derive its design from the popular 220F. So, in the revised Pulsar lineup for this year, the semi-faired variant may not have a place.
      The classic Bajaj Pulsar design has aged very well over these years. While its competitors feel the need to constantly evolve and revise their aesthetics, the Pulsar continues to enjoy enviable popularity among young and middle-aged customers alike. We expect the new 180 variant to do better than its outgoing faired sibling in terms of monthly sales volumes. More

    • 163 Shares189 Views

      in Bike

      Ampere Electric To Setup EV Plant With 10 Lakh Capacity In Tamil Nadu

      by

      Ampere Electric Dealer
      Ampere Electric announces Rs 700 crore investment over 10 years

      Ampere Electric has announced phased investment potential of Rs 700 crore over 10 years. The spending is earmarked for a world class e-mobility manufacturing plant in Ranipet, Tamil Nadu. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by the Company and Government of Tamil Nadu, today. Greaves has already invested Rs 250-Cr in the acquisition of Ampere and ELE e3W . Since January 2019 the company has been scaling up ops.
      The proposed Ranipet manufacturing plant is spread over 1.4 million square feet. Once built, it will be one of the largest e-mobility manufacturing plants in India. Manufacturing potential is set at 1,00,000 units in its first year of operation, upto a potential to scale to 10 lakh units per annum.
      Ampere Electric manufacturing facility
      To be operational by 2021, it brings employment opportunities to the locality, and is being built on Industry 4.0, principles with advanced automation processes for superior manufacturing capabilities.
      Further growth is anticipated on the back of 35 percent growth in Ampere sales volumes for Q3 FY21. This despite business circumstances owing to Covid pandemic. Currently the manufacturer boats of a fast growing base of 500+ dealerships, 75000+ customer base and 50+ B2B buyers.
      Ampere Electric 3 Wheeler
      Electric vehicle market in India
      Nagesh Basavanhalli, Group CEO & MD, Greaves Cotton Limited, said, “This is a historic milestone for Greaves Cotton, as we outline our investment to transform the clean mobility landscape in India. This plant is dedicated to the State of Tamil Nadu and our Nation. This move aligns with our mission of decarbonising last mile transportation for a cleaner planet and uninterrupted mobility.”
      Roy Kurian, COO, E-Mobility Business (2W & 3W), Ampere Electric, said, “We have strengthened our leadership position in e-mobility segment and getting ready to cater to the growing demand of customers, channel partners, both in B2B and B2C segments. The manufacturing facility in Ranipet will help us expand our offerings to an ever increasing customer base not just in India but also in other parts of the world.”
      While the electric vehicle segment in India is still fledgeling one, the e-scooter industry is expanding rather quickly. With each passing month, new manufacturers enter the fray in a quest for a small share of the small market.
      With longterm expansion plans, experience and ability to grow, market dynamics will soon make place for big time winners in the EV segment. And that will create an all new marketplace that gives electric vehicles a fighting chance in the future. More

    • 138 Shares99 Views

      in Bike

      Honda CB350RS Road Sailing 350cc Motorcycle Launch Price Rs 1.96 Lakhs

      by

      2021 Honda CB350RS
      Aiming to add more options in 350cc segment, Honda has launched CB350RS Cafe Racer in India – RS stands for Road Sailing

      With its sporty profile, Honda CB350RS will appeal to the young generation and folks looking for quick sprints across city streets. The motorcycle can also add a lot more agility and power to everyday commutes. Price of Honda CB350RS starts from Rs 1.96 lakhs, ex-sh. Two variants are on offer, one in monotone red colour and the other in yellow / black dual tone colour.
      Honda CB350RS design
      As compared to CB350 that makes liberal use of chrome elements, CB350RS has a largely blacked-out profile. This is evident in the front forks, front and rear fenders, rear shock absorber springs and exhaust canister. CB350RS is also sleeker, as compared to its roadster sibling.
      2021 Honda CB350RS
      Another key difference is the slightly aggressive riding stance. Other key features of CB350RS include round headlamp, misses out on clip-on handlebar, sculpted fuel tank, semi-digital instrument console, single-piece seat, and upswept exhaust. Both single-tone and dual-tone colour options are available for Honda CB350RS.
      Honda CB350RS powertrain
      CB350RS utilizes the same engine as that of HNess CB350. The 348cc air cooled, single cylinder engine is capable of generating 21 bhp of max power and 30 Nm of max torque. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox.
      2021 Honda CB350RS
      CB350RS borrows other hardware as well such as half duplex cradle with telescopic front forks and twin hydraulic rear suspension. Braking duties are performed by 310 mm disc at the front and 240 mm disc at the rear. Dual-channel ABS is offered as standard.
      2021 Honda CB350RS
      Honda CB350RS features
      Talking about features, the list is largely the same as that of CB350. The cafe racer gets Honda Smartphone Voice Control system (HSVCS), Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), assist and slipper clutch, side stand with engine inhibitor, turn-by-turn navigation, hazard switch and engine start/stop switch. The instrument console displays a range of information such as gear position indicator, battery voltage meter, average mileage, real time mileage and distance to empty.
      Honda will be hopeful that CB350RS turns out to be just as successful as CB350 classic roadster. While CB350 may still be far behind its primary rival Royal Enfield Classic 350, its market response has been pretty decent. As may be recalled, CB350 recently achieved the 10k sales milestone. It is now the primary volume generator for Honda BigWing dealerships.
      2021 Honda CB350RS
      Together, CB350 and CB350RS can further boost sales numbers. Honda is continuously working to expand its BigWing dealerships, which will be a positive factor for these motorcycles. Royal Enfield may command 85% market share in this segment (200cc-350cc), but that doesn’t seem to make any difference to Honda’s ambitious plans. In the future, it is possible that Honda may introduce other new products in 350cc space such as a scrambler, special editions, etc. More

    • 138 Shares199 Views

      in Bike

      Ather 450 Electric Scooter Ownership Review After 1 Year Of Use

      by

      Ather 450 Electric Scooter. Credit – Lazy Lion
      Ather 450 e-scooter receives 4G SIM card, Bluetooth connectivity and a 7 inch touchscreen dashboard

      Ather Energy, makers of the 450 Plus and 450X electric scooters, recently inaugurated a new Ather Space showroom in Mumbai and Ahmedabad and have recently started operations at their new and larger facility in Hosur, Tamil Nadu. Considering its outstanding demand, company plans to expand reach of its electric scooter lineup to 20 cities by Q1 2021.
      The first scooters Ather launched were the S340 and S450, which were launched in June 2018. A few months down the line, Ather decided to remove the ‘S’ prefix, and what remained was the 340 and 450. In Sep 2019, Ather discontinued 340, and only had the 450 on sale. Early in Jan 2020, Ather launched 450x and 450 Plus – which are basically the same scooters, but come with advanced features and improved battery tech.
      Ather 450 Ownership Review After 1 Year
      Owner of Ather 450 electric scooter, Venky has shared his detailed ownership experience in a YouTube video by Lazy Lion. The owner details each feature with great gusto. For starters, Venky is excited to show off the reverse function and riding modes offered on his scooter which offer a range of 70 km to around 85 km.
      Ather electric scooter comes in with several rider comforts. It gets a touchscreen dashboard allowing the rider to make and manage phone calls and music. The 7 inch touchscreen comes in with colour depth of 16M with a Snapdragon 212 Quadcore processor with 1GB RAM and 8GB storage while a 4G SIM card and Bluetooth connectivity are also a part of its features. Take a look at the detailed video below.
      [embedded content]
      The dashboard offers OTA updates, navigation and range and sports features such as auto indicator off switch, guide-me-home lamps, side stand sensor and adaptive screen brightness adjustment. Tracking function is another highlight detailed in the video with live location and vehicle state tracking.
      The dashboard also has several settings in particular of  documents, wherein all necessary papers such as license and RC card can be stored. The charging socket is located at the front just under the left handle bar. It can be charged from 0-80 percent in about 3 hours.
      The owner says that this has been good enough for his use. He has been really satisfied with the scooter. Along with the subsidy of Rs 34k, Venky got his e-scooter for a price of Rs 1.04 lakh price. Price of Ather scooters are a lot more today.
      New Ather 450X
      Ather 450 is no longer on sale. What is now on sale are the Ather 450X and 450 Plus. They share the same specs. This includes a 2.6 kWh lithium-ion battery pack which is paired with an electric motor generating 6kW/28 Nm returning a single charge range of 116 km. The battery is IP 67 rated water resistant and dust proof and comes in with 3 year warranty.
      Ather Energy has introduced an Assured Buyback program for the Ather 450X. The company guarantees to buy back the 450X at Rs.85,000 at the end of 3 years. The company also offers a 5 year warranty and 5000 kms service interval with 3 free servicing. The 450X is offered in two variants of 450X and 450 Plus with prices at Rs.1.59 and Rs.1.39 lakhs respectively while both receive GST and FAME II subsidies. More