Bike News

Subterms

    More stories

    • 113 Shares199 Views

      in Bike

      Ola Electric On-boards Siemens For Building Scooter Manufacturing Facility

      by

      Etergo electric scooter image for reference
      With an eye on domestic as well as global markets, Ola Electric will soon begin production of its electric two-wheeler

      Towards that end, Ola has partnered with Siemens to build its manufacturing facility. Munich based Siemens is a leading industrial manufacturing company with operations in varied domains such as energy, industrial automation, infrastructure & cities and healthcare.
      Ola electric scooter manufacturing plant details
      Ola’s electric scooter manufacturing facility will come up in Tamil Nadu. With annual production capacity of 20 lakh units, it will be the biggest scooter manufacturing facility in the world. The company has already signed a MoU with Tamil Nadu government, which entails investments worth a staggering 2,400 crore. Once completed, the plant will generate close to 10,000 jobs.
      Ola’s manufacturing facility will be among the most advanced in the country. Its construction will be based on Industry 4.0 principles, which involve large scale integration of internet of things (IoT) systems and machine-to-machine communication (M2M). The key objectives are to increase automation, achieve self-monitoring by smart machines, and diagnose issues without human intervention.
      In case of Ola’s manufacturing facility, it will have close to 5,000 robots. These will be deployed across various functions to achieve the goals of Industry 4.0.
      Ola acquired Etergo Electric Scooter
      To ensure things work out as planned, Ola will be digitally testing its product and production processes using Siemens’ integrated Digital Twin design and manufacturing solutions. This digital validation will be carried out before the commencement of actual operations.
      Ola’s proprietary AI Engine
      To ensure seamless operations, Ola will be deploying its tech stack across the entire range of manufacturing processes. It will include Ola’s proprietary AI Engine that has capabilities to self-learn and optimise processes.
      This will ensure improved control and better quality throughout the entire manufacturing operations. It will be especially beneficial for implementation of advanced internet of everything (IoE) and cyber-physical systems.
      Ola also has plans to launch electric rickshaw. File photo.
      Material handling at Ola’s manufacturing facility will be fully automated. Everything from movement of raw materials and parts to their storage and dispatch of finished products will be handled by automated systems. Ola’s manufacturing facility will ensure optimal synergy between automated tools and human efforts to ensure the best outcomes in terms of efficiency and product quality.
      Ola will also be focusing on improving customer experience, right from buying the scooter to ownership and accessing repair and maintenance services. Ola Electric’s first product will be Etergo AppScooter, which will compete with products of other EV manufacturers such as Okinawa, Ather Energy, Hero Electric and Ampere.
      It will also be positioned as an effective alternative to the current breed of petrol powered scooters. Along with the Indian market, AppScooter will cater to the needs of other markets across UK, Europe, Latin America, Australia and New Zealand. More

    • 163 Shares169 Views

      in Bike

      350cc Motorcycle Sales Dec 2020 – Honda CB350 vs RE Meteor, Bullet, Electra

      by

      Image – Nikhil Gandhi
      Honda CB350 and Royal Enfield Meteor 350 domestic sales and exports in December 2020

      350cc motorcycle segment is dominated by Royal Enfield. Has been for the longest time. It’s only in recent years that there has been a continuity of new launches in the 300 – 400cc segment by other manufacturers. 350cc segment sales grew in December 2020.
      Royal Enfield’s contribution was just shy of 62k units. Of this, Classic 350 took the lion’s share at 39,321 units, up 35 percent from 29,121 units in December 2019. MoM wholesales were stable with November 2020 numbers reported at 39,391 units.
      Bullet 350 numbers were reported at 10,480 units at about 16 percent decline, down from 12,467 units. MoM growth is reported at 60.91 percent, up from 6,513 units at volume gain of 3,967 units.
      Meteor 350, the manufacturer’s newest launch saw sales reported at 8,569 units to surpass Electra 350. MoM growth was reported at 21.87 percent, up from 7,031 units. The latter accounted for 3,490 units at 4.15 percent decline, down from 3,641 units. MoM sales decline is reported at 4.15 percent, down from 3,641 units.
      350cc Motorcycle segment sales and exports Dec 2020 vs Dec 2019 (YoY)
      350 cc domestic wholesales in December 2020
      Honda CB350, also a fairly new launch saw wholesales listed at 1,564 units. MoM sales decline is reported at 61.54 units. This can be attributed to initial sales boost on account of new launch during the festive season.
      Royal Enfield Meteor 350 sales crossed 15k units in 2 months since while Honda CB350 sales are under 7k units in 3 months since launch.
      Together, 350cc wholesales for December 20 stood at 63,424 units at 40.23 percent growth. Volumes grew by 18,195 units, up from 45,229 units. MoM growth is reported at 4.85 percent for the 350cc segment, up from 60,492 units at volume gain of 2,932 units.
      Interestingly, both new bikes, Meteor 350 and Honda CB350 have garnered much public interest. While Royal Enfield has a steady sales source through its nationwide network, Honda is playing catch up. As the manufacturer has chosen to sell its 350 units from BigWing dealerships. Consequently, one can expect steady focus on this network being built at speed to cater to a wider market.
      350cc Motorcycle segment sales and exports Dec 2020 vs Nov 2020 (MoM)
      Also, this is the first time Honda has decided to tap into this segment for its Indian business. Considering a launch in late 2020 to maximise benefits of the festive season, the MY21 models are now available at a slightly revised price. Given that manufacturers have increased prices across entire product ranges starting 2021.
      350cc motorcycle exports from India
      Surprisingly, Royal Enfield’s 350cc exports for December 2020 were on the decline while Honda CB 350 gained. As a result, Honda CB 350 exports for last month topped the table at 510 units. In the export front, the bike will also head to Japan. MoM exports gained by over 400 units from 92 units the month prior.
      Classic 350 exports fell 27.44 percent, down from 328 units. MoM decline is reported at 67.26 percent, down from 727 units. Meteor 350 numbers stood at 94 units. MoM decline us reported at 62.55 percent, down from 251 units. No units of Electra or Bullet were exported in the period under consideration. More

    • 150 Shares99 Views

      in Bike

      Top 10 Two Wheelers Dec 2020 – Splendor, Activa, Pulsar, Classic 350

      by

      Hero Splendor
      Hero Splendor and HF Deluxe top the charts for December 2020 wholesales

      December 2020 two-wheeler wholesales grew 9.98 percent for the top 10. Total was reported at 8,16,056 units, up from 7,42,002 units. Volume gain stood at juts over 74k units. This helped further strengthen Q4 2020 sales, which began on a strong note. The festive season in 2020 gained momentum owing to a multitude of factors. This in addition to it being a traditionally high sales period.
      Deferred purchases, a wide range of finance options, and the need for safe commute helped two wheeler sales. Consequently, the three quarters of FY21 have seen incremental growth. Sales started at nought when all business operations were shut in March 2020 owing to Covid-19 pandemic.
      This meant the quarter starting in April was one of complete inactivity. Situations were further complicated owing to financial limitations owing to Covid-19 pandemic outcomes. However, auto sales set out strong and steady from mid-year to end the year with plenty of activity.
      Hero MotoCorp continues undisputed on top with 1,94,930 units of Splendor reported at marginal growth of .62 percent. Volumes grew 1,204 units from 1,93,726 units. In the top pool, Splendor accounts for 23.89 percent market share. Hero HF Deluxe took second spot at 1,41,168 units. Sales gain is reported at 1.6 percent, up 2,217 units from 1,38,951 units.
      Two Wheeler Sales Dec 2020
      Bajaj Pulsar reports maximum growth in top 10 list
      As always Honda Activa scooter sales opens innings for scooters. Growth was reported at 1.65 percent, up 2,178 units. Wholesales grew to 1,34,077 units from 1,31,899 units. Market share among the top lot stood at 16.43 percent.
      Bajaj Pulsar has been riding out the storm in confidence. Wholeales grew to just over 75k units, up from 50,931 units. Market share in the top group was just under 10 percent at 9.24 percent. Sales growth was at high of 48.08 percent at volume gain of 24,490 units.
      TVS XL moped pretty much the only two-wheeler of it’s kind saw sales of just under 60k units. This gave it 7.34 percent market share. Sales grew at 31.21 percent, up at 59,923 units from 45,669 units. Volume gain is reported at 14,254 units. In fact all 10 listings reported sales growth.
      No
      Top 10 2Wheelers
      Dec-20
      Dec-19
      1
      Hero Splendor (+1%)
      1,94,930
      1,93,726
      2
      Hero HF Deluxe (+2%)
      1,41,168
      1,38,951
      3
      Honda Activa (+2%)
      1,34,077
      1,31,899
      4
      Bajaj Pulsar (+48%)
      75,421
      50,931
      5
      TVS XL Moped (+31%)
      59,923
      45,669
      6
      Honda CB Shine (+10%)
      56,003
      51,066
      7
      Suzuki Access (+7%)
      40,154
      37,495
      8
      Royal Enfield Classic 350 (+35%)
      39,321
      29,121
      9
      TVS Jupiter (+6%)
      38,435
      36,184
      10
      Hero Passion (+36%)
      36,624
      26,960
      –
      Total (+10%)
      8,16,056
      7,42,002
      Royal Enfield Classic 350 sales strengthen
      Honda CB Shine wholesales were up by 9.67 percent. Numbers are reported at 56,003 units, up from 51,066 units at volume gain of 4,937 units. While Honda is keen on the idea of a new mass market commuter motorcycle to improve overall market share, Suzuki is heavily reliant on the success of its scooters in India. Suzuki Access sales grew 7.09 percent. Volumes grew to juts over 40k units, up from 37,495 units at volume gain of 2,659 units.
      Royal Enfield Classic 350 sales grew by about 35 percent. Numbers are reported at 39,321 units, up from 29,121 units at volume gain of 10.2k units. It’s market share in the top listing is at just under 5 percent. TVS Jupiter wholesales grew by 6.22 percent, up at 38,435 units from 36,184 units. Hero Passion completes the top order at 36,624 units. Sales grew by 9,664 units, up 35.85 percent from 26,960 units. Market share of the last 4 entries account for just under 5 percent each. More

    • 138 Shares179 Views

      in Bike

      Komaki Electric Motorcycle, Scooters Launch Price Rs 96k To Rs 99k

      by

      Komaki M5 Electric Motorcycle
      Komaki TN95 has been designed keeping in mind Indian families and their requirements

      In the recent past, we have covered a lot of new electric vehicles (EV) on our page and this trend is set to continue in the near future as well with interesting products with an electric powertrain in pipeline. Especially the two-wheeler segment has seen quite a few new launches in the past year.
      Komaki, a relatively new EV startup, has now launched three new high-speed electric two-wheelers in India. Out of the three- TN95 and SE are scooters whereas M5 is a motorcycle. TN95 and SE have been priced at Rs 98,000 and Rs 96,000 respectively while M5 electric motorcycle is priced at Rs 99,000. All prices are ex-showroom.
      Komaki M5 Electric Motorcycle
      Komaki M5
      The New Delhi-based startup is yet to reveal the full specifications of any of these models. Starting with the M5 which is the startup’s first high-speed electric bike. It also features a detachable lithium-ion battery which offers a claimed driving range of 100-120 km on a single charge. It has been made available in two colour options Silver and Gold and has a design that would primarily attract the youth.
      Komaki TN95
      Next in line is TN95, it is a high-speed e-scooter that has been developed keeping in mind the needs of an Indian family. It is offered with a large storage box mounted at rear. It also is provided with footrests on both sides of the scooter along with a metallic guard around its body.
      Komaki TN95 Electric Scooter claims to be the largest scooter in India
      The company claims a driving range of 100-150 km on a single charge with a detachable lithium-ion battery back. It is offered with features such as a full-colour digital display, on-board cruise control, park & reverse assist, regenerating braking system and a self-diagnosis switch.
      Komaki SE
      Third and final offering from Komaki is the second high-speed scooter of the company- Komaki SE. This scooter will be made available in four vibrant colours including Solid Blue, Metallic Gold, Jet Black and Garnet Red Colour. Komaki says that SE has been designed in such a way so that it could attract audiences across all age groups.
      For SE, the startup claims a single-charge range of about 100 to 120 km. It is also offered with features such as a full colour instrument display, parking & reverse assist, self-diagnosis switch and cruise control. It also gets the option of disc brakes on both ends.
      Komaki SE Electric Scooter
      Komaki is yet to announce details of the availability of its recently launched electric two-wheelers. Hopefully, in the coming few days we get to know more about specifications of each model and places at which they will be available. Komaki competes with numerous rivals in the electric two-wheeler segment such as Ather, Hero Electric, Okinawa, Revolt, Kabira Mobility and Batt:RE to name a few. More

    • 125 Shares189 Views

      in Bike

      2021 Yamaha R15 Gets Updated With New Colours In Indonesia

      by

      2021 Yamaha R15
      One of the best selling fully faired motorcycle in the 150 cc segment, R15 V3 has now been updated

      Aiming to provide more customization options to customers and fend off competition from 2021 Honda CBR150R, Yamaha Indonesia has introduced new colours for its popular R15 motorcycle. As may be recalled, Honda CBR150R was launched in the second week of January.
      The motorcycle has received a range of visual updates, which could help attract more customers. Yamaha has responded by adding three colour options for R15 – Metallic Blue, Matte Silver and Matte Black.
      Yamaha R15 2021 new colours (Indonesia)
      The Metallic Blue shade comes with a glossy finish, which enhances the motorcycle’s sporty profile. Parts that have the blue shade include headlamp cowl, fuel tank, fairing and alloy wheels.
      The blue shade makes an exciting contrast with blacked out elements such as side panels, rear view mirrors and exhaust pipe. Golden coloured USD front forks further add to the motorcycle’s gorgeous looks. In the Indian market, Yamaha YZR R15 is offered in Racing Blue colour, which is different from the Metallic Blue shade launched in Indonesia.
      2021 Yamaha R15 New Colours
      Talking about the Matte Silver option, the new shade makes a much sober contrast against the black coloured elements of the motorcycle. The set of components that have the matte silver shade is the same as that of Metallic Blue colour theme.
      The only difference is that the alloy wheels carry an entirely distinct yellow shade. Use of three contrasting colours looks radical, but it may not suit everyone’s taste. The golden USD forks further complicate the overall aesthetics of this bike.
      In the Indian market, R15 has Thunder Grey shade, which is much darker than the matte silver colour introduced in Indonesia. The Indian version has red graphics and wheel rims, which are visually more appealing.
      2021 Yamaha R15
      The third colour option for R15 introduced in Indonesia is Matte Black, which is essentially an all-black theme. It gives the motorcycle a bold and intimidating persona, which is likely to attract a sizeable number of buyers. This is probably the best colour option that creates the most appealing contrast with the golden coloured USD forks.
      In the Indian market, R15 has the Dark Knight shade. It has an all-black profile and comes with contrasting white graphics. The black shade looks a bit lighter as compared to the Matte Black colour introduced for R15 in Indonesia.
      2021 Yamaha R15
      2021 Yamaha R15 engine
      Apart from the new colour options, 2021 Yamaha R15 in Indonesia does not offer any other updates. Engine is the same as earlier, a 155cc engine with VVA tech that is capable of generating max power of 19.3 ps and max toque of 14.7 Nm. It is mated to a 6-speed constant mesh gearbox.
      As compared to 2021 Honda CBR150R that is available at a starting price of IDR 39.3 million (approx. INR 2.05 lakh), 2021 Yamaha R15 works out cheaper at IDR 37.08 million (approx. INR 1.93 lakh). In the Indian market, Yamaha R15 V3.0 is available at a starting price of Rs 1.47 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). More

    • 138 Shares99 Views

      in Bike

      Honda CB350 Launched In Japan As GB350 – Cheaper Than India

      by

      2021 Honda GB350
      In spite of importing the CB 350 from India as a CBU, the Japan price of the motorcycle is lower than the one on sale in India

      After its unveil earlier this month, Honda CB350 has been launched in the company’s home market Japan. It gets a new name GB350 in Japan and is priced at 268,000 yen (approx. Rs 1.89 lakh). GB350 will be made in India and exported to Japan as CBUs.
      In Japan, the motorcycle will be offered in only one variant, which is the top variant. In India, CB350 is available in DLX and DLX Pro variants. They are priced at Rs 1,86,500 and Rs 1,92,500, respectively (both ex-showroom). This makes the CB350 on sale in Japan, cheaper than the one on sale in India by about Rs 2,500 – in spite of the fact that it is made in India and exported to Japan as CBU.
      Please note that the India prices are the new prices that were notified earlier this month. Original launch price of CB350 DLX and DLX Pro was Rs 1.85 lakh and Rs 1.90 lakh, ex-sh, respectively.
      Honda GB350 design and styling
      Except the change in name, GB350 is the same as CB350 that is sold in the Indian market. The motorcycle utilizes a combo of retro styling and modern features such as full LED headlamp and LED winkers. The dual-tone fuel tank with broad ‘Honda’ badging adds to the motorcycle’s visual appeal. Chrome elements have been used liberally on the motorcycle, which give it a regal look and feel.
      Honda CB350 in Japan. Image – Young Machine
      Honda GB350 key features
      Honda CB350 packs in a range of segment-first features. One of these is Honda Smartphone Voice Control System (HSVCS), which lets users connect and access their smartphones via Bluetooth. There are dedicated buttons on the handlebar, which can be used to access text messages, phone calls, weather information, music playback and navigation.
      Other segment first features include assist and slipper clutch, Honda selectable torque control, average and real time mileage display, battery voltage meter, gear position indicator, and distance to empty.
      Honda GB350 engine
      CB350 is BS6 compliant, which is equivalent to Euro 5 emission norms. As such, Honda does not need to carry out any updates in the engine for the Japanese market. All other equipment and features of GB350 will be the same as CB350.
      Honda CB350 is powered by a 348 cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that is capable of generating 21 bhp of max power at 5500 rpm and 30 Nm of max torque at 3,000 rpm. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox.
      As compared to Royal Enfield’s signature thumping exhaust note, CB350 has a crispier and refined exhaust note. It would appeal to a mature audience who do not wish to be too loud on the streets.
      Honda CB350 utilizes a half-duplex cradle frame with telescopic front forks and twin hydraulic rear suspension. Braking duties are performed by 310 mm and 240 mm disc at the front and rear, respectively. Dual-channel ABS is offered as standard. More

    • 200 Shares109 Views

      in Bike

      2021 BMW G 310 R And G 310 GS Get A Price Hike Of Rs 5k

      by

      2021 BMW G310 GS
      BMW 310 twins improves company sales, and continue to be price positive in 2021

      BMW Motorrad India reported 6.66 percent sales growth in 2020. Motorcycle sales crossed 2.5k units, up from about 2.4k units. Sales grew significantly in Q4 (October – December) 2020, up 51 percent over Q4 2019. No doubt, sales was dominated by demand for new BMW G 310 R and BMW G 310 GS motorcycles. The duo accounted for over 80 percent of total sales.
      At the time, Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, ‘In a particularly tough year, BMW Motorrad once again delivered a stellar performance against all odds and became the number one selling premium motorcycle brand. Our aim is to continuously grow the BMW Motorrad community and culture here in India and we will keep delivering on that promise.”
      New BMW G310 R was launched early in October 2020 at a price of Rs 2.45 lakhs. And G310 GS at a price of Rs 2.85 lakhs (ex-sh prices). This meant both bikes were cheaper than KTM Duke 390 and 390 ADV (respectively) in India. The price proposition was a winning one, and the manufacturer’s new launches garnered solid demand.
      BS6 BMW G 310 R and G 310 GS
      There were no BMW G310s on sale since April to October 2020. Sales for both bikes were inadvertently halted for a period until they were made BS6 compliant. Alongwith emission compliancy, the manufacturer added features, curated financial offers, and introduced the bikes at an attractive price point.
      BMW G310 R
      To the extent, that BS4 versions purchased earlier proved to be more expensive than the BS6 models launched in October 2020. In its latest avatar, the bikes were cheaper by more than half a lakh. BS4 G310R was last listed at a retail price of Rs 2.99 lakh, and BS4 310GS at Rs 3.49 lakh (ex-sh prices).
      The company hasn’t explicitly stated what changes were incorporated to reduce price tags on the BS6 units, but the decision has served them well. The idea behind the smaller cc bikes was always to improve market share and cater to a wider customer base. A feasible price point helps drive that quest home.
      Latest Price Hike
      BMW Group India had towards December end announced a price hike, wef January 4, 2021. Following a price hike for MY21 motorcycles, the new bikes are still considerably price friendly as compared to price tags from a year earlier.
      Following a price revision for BMW G 310 R and G 310 GS motorcycles, both bikes are now costlier by 5 grands. G 310 R is listed at a price of Rs 2.50 lakh, and G 310 GS at Rs 2.90 lakh. All prices are ex-sh, India. With price points continuing to be favourable, BMW Motorrad India may already have secured a competitive run for 2021. More

    • 113 Shares149 Views

      in Bike

      2021 Suzuki GSX S125 Debuts With New Colour Options

      by

      2021 Suzuki GSX S125 LED Headlight
      Internationally, Suzuki GSX S125 locks horns with KTM 125 Duke, Honda CBR125R and Yamaha MT-125

      Suzuki has launched the updated GSX S125 for 2021 in international markets. The smallest member of Suzuki’s GSX family has received two new colour schemes. Apart from this, there are no other changes incorporated in the naked streetfighter either on its styling front or in its mechanical side.
      New Colour Schemes
      The new colour schemes added are- Triton Metallic Blue and Titan Black. Out of these two, the former is more dynamic and bolder while the latter is a more subtle option to consider. Body panels of the bike in Triton Blue scheme are dipped in blue paint with black graphics on its fuel tank along with yellow highlights on tank extensions.
      It also features a yellow coloured decal of 125 on its tail. Titan Black option, on the other hand, gets black as its base colour with blue accents all around the body along with blue alloy wheels.
      Apart from this, it sports the identical design to its predecessor. This includes an aggressive front end with LED headlamps and a sporty riding position with a low seat and rear-set footpegs. The tail section is upright hence the pillion sits at a very high position.
      2021 Suzuki GSX S125
      Features & Specifications
      In terms of features, it receives a fully digital LCD instrument cluster which provides basic information such as distance covered, speed, engine temperature, fuel level, average fuel consumption, oil change interval and gear position. It also offers a dual-channel ABS as standard. It rides on cast aluminium alloy wheels wrapped around by Dunlop D102 tyres.
      As far as its powertrain is concerned, it is powered by a 124cc single-cylinder, four-valve, DOHC, liquid-cooled engine which kicks out 14.8 bhp at 10,000rpm and 11 Nm at 8,000rpm. This output is in the vicinity of 150-160cc motorcycles retailed in India like Bajaj Pulsar 150, TVS Apache RTR 160 and Hero Xtreme 160R.
      As far as hardware is concerned, it gets conventional telescopic suspension at front and a link-type coil spring at rear. It rides on 17-inch wheels with 90/80 and 130/70 profile of rubber wrapped around.

      Price
      The naked street racer can hold up to 11 litres of fuel. While GSX S125 is not available in India, if it was brought to our markets, it would have been a perfect rival to KTM Duke 125. In Japan, the latest iteration of the bike costs 382,800 Yen that is approximately INR 2.69 lakh. In India, Suzuki’s smallest entry-level bike is the Gixxer 155 which is retailed at Rs 1.15 lakh (ex-showroom). More