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      New Honda CB350RS vs Honda CB350 – Top Differences Explained

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      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

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      2021 Bajaj Pulsar 180 At Dealer Showroom – First Look Walkaround

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      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.
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      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

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

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      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

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

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      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

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      Ather 450 Electric Scooter Ownership Review After 1 Year Of Use

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      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.
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      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

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      Kabira Electric Motorcycles KM3000, KM4000 Launch Price Rs 1.27L, Rs 1.37 L

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      Kabira KM3000 Electric Motorcycle
      Kabira Mobility launches KM3000 and KM4000 electric motorcycles at over Rs 1.25 lakhs

      Dialogues around electric vehicles may not appear to be getting the push they require for the discussion to be a dominating one. But this hasn’t stopped manufacturers from ensuring product development that takes into consideration all modern features one would find on a non-electric vehicle.
      Kabira KM 3000 and 4000 feature a DeltaEV BLDC Hub Motor and DeltaEV Smart FOC Controller. Other features include a smart dashboard, 450 Nits Brightness, fireproof battery pack, smart riding modes and mobile app connectivity. Designed for performance, both bikes use a universal Type 2 Charger, and LFP (Lithium Ion) battery pack. Launch price is listed at Rs 1,26,990 for KM 3000, and Rs 1,36,990 for KM 4000.
      KM4000 – fastest electric bike
      Kabira KM 3000 features an alloy steel chassis. Kabira Mobility refers to KM4000 as the fastest electric bike. For now competition is minimal considering only Revolt sells e-motorcycles here. The rest of the electric two-wheels segment is filled with a range of low and high-speed scooters.
      This gives Kabira Mobility a stepping stone that they can capitalise on considering competition is less. The electric bike is said to have the longest ride range in India. It also features dual front disc brakes, alloy steel chassis, and inverted forks.
      Kabira KM4000 Electric Motorcycle
      Kabira KM3000 and KM4000 Specs
      Kabira KM3000 works on a 3,500 W motor with peak power at 6,000 W. Top speed is pegged at 100 kmph. 0-100 acceleration is pegged at 3.3 seconds. Drive modes influence drive range. Eco range is listed at 120 kms, City range at 95 kms, and Sports range at 60 kms. Battery usable capacity is listed at 4.0 kWh, nominal voltage at 73.6v.
      Kabira Electric Motorcycles – Specs
      Kabira KM4000 works on a 6,000 W motor with peak power at 8,000 W. Top speed is pegged at 120 kmph. 0-100 acceleration takes 3.1 seconds. Drive range for Eco mode is listed at 150 kms, City range at 110 kms, and Sports range at 90 kms. Battery usable capacity is listed at 4.5 kWh, and nominal voltage at 73.6v.
      Charging specs vary too. Eco Charge time from 0 – 80 percent is listed at 2 hr 50 min, and 0 – 100 percent at 6 hrs 30 minutes. Boost charge from 0-80 percent can be attained in 50 minutes. Charge times remain same for both KM3000 and KM4000. Both bikes use CBS braking system, and rear single disc brake. the KM3000 unit has a front single disc brake, and the KM4000 unit features dual disc brakes in front.
      Dimensions vary for both motorcycles. KM3000 length is listed aas 2,100 mm, width at 760 mm, and height at 1,200mm, and wheelbase of 1,430 mm. Ground clearance is at 170 mm, seat height at 830mm, and kerb weight of 138 kg. KM4000 length is listed aas 2,050 mm, width at 740 mm, and height at 1,280mm, and wheelbase of 1,500 mm. Ground clearance is at 200 mm, seat height at 800 mm, and kerb weight of 147 kg. More

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      New Indian Chief Motorcycles India Launch Confirmed For Q2 2021

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      New Indian Chief Bobber
      New Indian Chief motorcycles are offered with common features such as an LED headlamp, LED taillight, a USB port, and keyless ignition as standard

      Exactly a century back Indian Motorcycles rolled out its premiere Chief line of motorcycles. To mark the centenary of the iconic bobbers, the American bikemaker has revealed the updated Chief range of motorcycles. The new lineup of Chief bikes will consist of three models- Chief Dark Horse, Chief Bobber Dark Horse and Super Chief Limited with different variants in each of them.
      All three models are based on the same platform which utilises a steel-tube frame although all three present a different exterior appeal. Another major commonality is their similar powertrain setup which uses a Euro-5 compliant 1890cc V-Twin Thunderstroke 116 engine which kicks out a torque of 162 Nm.
      In terms of features, all three motorcycles are equipped with the brand’s Ride Command system. This system provides riders turn-by-turn navigation and allows them to toggle and access their motorcycle’s ride information along and also connect their smartphone to the bike’s instrument console and access media functions.
      While Chief Dark Horse and Chief Bobber Dark Horse adopt a blacked-out theme with gloss finished panels, Super Chief Limited comes with elements laced in chrome. Another point of difference is that the former two come with a single-piece seat as standard, while the latter comes with a pillion seat as well.
      New Indian Chief Dark Horse
      Chief Dark Horse
      Starting with Chief Dark Horse, unlike its outgoing predecessor, has ditched its old-school looks for a modern attire. This is mainly due to its stripped-down look with a new slim headlight bucket, drag handlebars, exposed rear suspension unit, absence of a front fork sleeve and mid-set footpegs. It rides on 19-inch front and 16-inch rear cast alloy wheels along with a solo bobber seat.
      Chief Dark Horse comes in three paint schemes- Stealth Gray, Black Smoke and Alumina Jade Smoke. Like the other two models, Chief Dark Horse also comes with features such as cruise control, ABS, rear-cylinder deactivation and throttle-by-wire as standard. It has been priced at USD at $16,999 (equivalent to INR 12.38 lakh).
      Chief Bobber Dark Horse
      Chief Bobber Dark Horse like its sibling wears a dark exterior with several blacked-out components. However, unlike Chief, the Chief Bobber gets a mini-ape hanger, forward-set foot controls and rides on 16-inch spoke wheels.
      New Indian Chief Bobber Dark Horse
      In addition, its front and rear suspension units are covered to give them a chunky look and a bigger bucket headlight than Chief Dark Horse. Colour schemes offered in this model are Black Smoke, Titanium Smoke, and Sagebrush Smoke. It is offered at a price of $18,999 (equivalent to INR 13.83 lakh).
      Super Chief, Super Chief Limited
      Coming to Super Chief, it is a new addition to Indian Motorcycles’ lineup. It is more of an urban tourer as it is evident from its design which features a wide cruiser handlebar, broad footboards, a quick-release windscreen and leather saddlebags. Other design highlights include fork covers, a premium chrome exhaust system and 16-inch spoke wheels.
      New Indian Chief Super Limited
      It is offered in three colour options including Maroon Metallic, Black Metallic and Blue Slate Metallic. While Super Chief is offered at a price of USD 18,499 (Rs 13.47 lakh), the Super Chief Limited will burn one’s pockets by USD 20,999 (Rs 15.29 lakh).
      All three motorcycles will be launched in India by June 2021. Mr. Lalit Sharma, Country Manager, Polaris India Pvt. Ltd. said, “We are looking forward to bringing in the new lineup of motorcycle for the Indian bike lovers. We are very positive that the new lineup will be a huge success for our Indian range of motorcycles.” The brand recently launched the updated 2021 lineup for the Indian market. More

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      Royal Enfield 650cc Continental GT Modified Into A Racing Machine

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      Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 Modified by Goblin Works. Images – Bike Exif
      The modified Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 gets carbon fiber panels, a bigbore kit and a lot more

      With their simple mechanical and electronic architectures, the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 and Interceptor 650 have quickly established themselves as modifiers’ delight. Since their global debut we have come across numerous tastefully modified RE 650s but this one, executed by UK-based Partridge Design, is one of the sharpest we have seen.
      Modified Royal Enfield Continental GT 650
      Conceived and executed by Anthony Partridge who co-hosts Goblin Works Garage show on Discovery Channel, this modified Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 came with a simple brief from RE’s head of industrial design Adrian Sellers – “to build a thoroughbred racer”. That is exactly what Anthony set out to build.
      The end result is a sharp looking racing equipment swathed in exotic carbon fiber elements which hardly has anything in common with the stock Continental GT 650. However, the modified bodykit is designed with the help of 3D printing technology to be able to fit a stock motorcycle quickly and easily. So, it is not just a one-off project for a TV show but it is also a commercially available kit any Conti 650 owner could purchase.
      Custom parts
      Forming the centerpiece of the race bike’s styling is its carbon-fiber fuel tank which was custom made by GIA Engineering. The Racefit fuel filler cap is an art in itself. The custom swing arm was also GIA’s handwork. The custom motorcycle is suspended by premium Ohlins FGR300 inverted telescopic forks at the front and Ohlins TTX GP Pro monoshock at the rear.
      Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 Modified
      The modified Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 boasts of Moto GP-like quick-release axles which hold BST carbon fiber wheels. The tyres are Dunlop Sportmax GPA units. Braking is taken care of by Galfer discs with nickel plated Brembo calipers, Venhill brake lines and Magura front master cylinder. Magura also supplied the racer’s hydraulic clutch system.
      The motorcycle also gets a new rear sub-frame, complete with a fresh carbon fiber tailpiece. Some tweaks were made to the frame so as to accommodate wider rear wheel. Other noteworthy items on the motorcycle include Motogadget electronic elements, Rizoma clip-on handlebar, foot pegs, mirrors and turn indicators, Highsider LED headlamp, Reese Racing switch gear and Antigravity lithium-ion battery.
      The engine
      Powering this modified Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 is a modified 750 cc engine with S&S Cycle bigbore kit with custom power commander, foam filter and a hand-made exhaust system. Power and torque figures are not being discussed but it is definitely well over the stock motorcycle’s hp and Nm respectively.
      Partridge Design pitted its creation against the stock motorcycle on a test track under icy conditions. Not surprisingly, it was observed that the custom GT 650 was much faster, sharper and more fun to ride than what rolls off RE’s assembly line.

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