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      Royal Enfield Meteor Vs Honda CB350 Exhaust Sound Compared While Riding

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      Image – Abhinav Bhatt
      Both Meteor 350 and H’Ness CB350 have distinct exhaust notes and both have been appreciated by audiences

      We have covered both the Royal Enfield Meteor 350 and Honda H’Ness CB350 quite extensively ever since they were launched. These two motorcycles have been compared to each other in many different aspects such as their real-world performance, highway performance, acceleration test and even their service costs.
      It’s now time to compare an inherent quality of these motorcycles, something which has been a point of attraction for both these bikes- their exhaust notes. Now, Royal Enfield has always been known for its classic thump which gave it its famous recognition in a neighborhood. Does it still sound the same or does Honda stake a claim here?
      A video, uploaded by Abhinav Bhatt on YouTube shows the comparison between exhaust notes of the two motorcycles. The vlogger rides both bikes individually one after another to give us an idea of what these bikes actually sound like.
      While many might have heard these exhaust notes individually when tested side by side it gives us a difference in sounds of the two exhausts. Abhinav has ridden the two bikes on the same road, in the same manner, giving us a better idea at how the two bikes actually sound while riding in similar conditions. Take a look at the video below.
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      Meteor 350 Exhaust Note
      We already know that both are completely new bikes with brand new powertrains. Starting with Royal Enfield, this new generation 350cc engine is starkly different from the previous UCE 350 engine present. The prime difference being the use of an overhead camshaft (OHC) setup instead of a traditional pushrod setup. While the former has many benefits it dilutes, Royal Enfield’s signature ‘dug dug’ sound has been diluted which is a damper for many.
      The engine is definitely quieter and refined thanks to the addition of a counter balancer shaft. This has also led to a reduction of vibrations quite considerably, therefore improved ride and handling. The exhaust note is a lot more pleasant and linear thump to it which would definitely lure young riders. Although its signature thump has not completely vanished and one can still get the same feel by the number of exhaust options offered by the company.
      Honda CB350 Exhaust Note
      On the other hand, Honda CB350 does remind us of an old school Royal Enfield motorcycle to some extent. It has that robust and raw thump of a retro motorcycle which older RE bikes were known for. In other words, traditional Royal Enfield lovers would like the sound of CB350 more than that of Meteor 350. However, by no means does this engine sound crude in any way and is equally refined as its nemesis.
      Powertrain, Transmission Details
      Meteor 350 is powered by a new 349 cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine which returns an output of 20.2 bhp at 6,100 rpm and 27 Nm of peak torque at 4,000 rpm. This unit is mated to a new 5-speed gearbox. The CB350, on the other hand, is powered by a 348.36cc, air-cooled, fuel-injected, single-cylinder engine which makes 20.8hp at 5,500rpm and 30Nm at 3,000rpm. It is paired with a 5-speed gearbox as well. More

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      Honda Activa 6G Brown Colour Celebrates 20th Anniversary – Price Rs 1,500 More

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      Honda Activa 20th Anniversary Edition
      A lot has changed in 20 years but Honda Activa continues to dominate scooter sales

      Honda Activa has carved a niche for itself in the Indian two wheeler industry, and has continued to build on its workhorse for over two decades now. Activa’s successful 20-year run has seen over 2 crore Indian customers.
      The big 20 milestone is being celebrated with a special 20th anniversary edition Activa 6G. Over the years, HMSI has continued to upgrade Activa to ensure it stays relevant in the changing fcae of the two-wheeler industry here. This includes Combi-Brake System in 2009, Honda Eco Technology (HET) in 2013, and enhanced Smart Power (eSP) tech among other inputs in the 2020 Activa 6G.
      Atsushi Ogata, Managing Director, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. said, “The legend was born 20 years ago, when Honda realized The Power of Dreams of India with its debut model – Activa.”
      Yadvinder Singh Guleria, Director – Sales & Marketing, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. said, “Delighting lacs of new customers every month, Activa is the torch bearer of India’s two wheeler industry.”
      Honda Activa 6G Prices – Nov 2020. AE = Anniversary Edition
      Matte Mature Brown colour and gold bits
      The specially curated 20th anniversary edition is available in a brand new Matte Mature Brown colour with distinctive gold embossed logos. For Honda, the 20th anniversary edition is as precious as gold.
      It sports matte mature brown rear grab-rails, shiny embossed 20th year anniversary logo, and a special golden Activa logo. The front has new stripes, and front and rear tyres have black steel wheels. Inner cover and seats are finished in brown. The crankshaft is in black cover.

      20th anniversary edition Activa 6G
      Cosmetic changes are galore to ensure the celebration is visible at all times. The BSVI engine is one that was worked on recently. Powered by eSP, the scooter feature 26 patent application inputs and advancements. The 110cc PGM-FI HET (Honda Eco Technology) engine returns 10 percent increased mileage.
      The engine returns 7.68 hp power at 8,000 rpm, and 8.79 Nm torque at 5,250 rpm mated to a CVT. eSP and Honda ACG starter make for a silent start. Telescopic suspension and increased ground clearance improve ride quality over rough roads. Engine start/stop switch, easy to access external fuel lid through the integrated dual function switch, and bigger 12-inch front wheel are all new additions.

      20th anniversary edition Activa 6G is being despatched from today, and is available in 2 variants (Standard & Deluxe) at a price of Rs 66,816 for Standard, and Rs 68,316 for Deluxe (ex-sh, Gurugram, Haryana). This is at a small premium over the regular variants, wherein Standard is available at a price of Rs. 65,419, and Deluxe trim at Rs. 66,919. (Rs 1,500 more for the anniversary edition).
      Honda Activa sales far exceed segment sales, and puts it at a spot that sees it outnumber bestselling motorcycles too. The Indian two wheeler market is dominated by motorcycle sales with Honda Activa being an exception. More

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      Yamaha FZ25 Avengers Edition Unveiled – Captain Marvel, Black Panther

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      Yamaha FZ 25 Avengers Edition – Captain Marvel
      Apart from Marvel superhero-inspired liveries and body decals, there have been no changes made on these special edition models from Yamaha

      Well, if you are Marvel fan and have some interest in automobiles then it could be the best time for you. Recently, TVS Motor company introduced a special edition model of its power scooter called Ntorq Avengers Edition which took every Marvel fanboy by surprise.
      This time it’s Yamaha’s turn to replicate something similar. Yamaha has launched its most popular quarter-litre motorcycle FZ25 in a Marvel-inspired Limited Editions model in Brazil. The FZ25 is popularly known as Fazer 250 in the South American country.
      Yamaha FZ 25 Avengers Edition – Black Panther
      Superheroes On Offer
      The Avengers Edition of FZ25 has been offered in two themes- Captain Marvel and Black Panther. Apart from this, the Japanese bikemaker has launched a similar special edition model of its dual-purpose motorcycle Lander 250 which gets Captain America inspired colour scheme.
      All three motorcycles get superhero-inspired liveries and decals on their body panels. The FZ25 comes with matching rims whereas the Lander 250 misses out on this design attribute.

      Interestingly, Yamaha FZ25 Avengers Edition has been priced at 18,090 Brazilian Real which roughly translates to INR 2.45 lakh and is Rs 4200 cheaper than the standard model. On the other hand, the Lander 250 is retailed at 19,290 Brazilian Real, which is around INR 2.62 lakh. Other than the change in body graphics, there has been no update on these bikes either aesthetic or mechanical.
      Features & Mechanicals
      The latest BS6 compliant FZ25 received a minor makeover earlier this year which brought an updated front face. Its wide range of equipment consists of an LED headlamp, digital instrument console, dual-channel ABS and a side-stand engine cut-off switch to name a few.

      In terms of powertrain, it draws its power from a 249cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled with an oil cooler, SOHC engine which puts out 21.5PS of power at 8000rpm and 20.59Nm of peak torque at 6500rpm. In comparison, the India-spec version generates 20.8PS at 8000rpm of power and 20.1Nm of torque at 6000rpm. It is paired with a six-speed gearbox.
      Apart from these special edition models, Yamaha also offers R15 V3 derived NMax 160 in special Star Wars Edition in two colour variants: Galactic Empire and Alliance Rebel. The Marvel Edition FZ25 will surely attract a lot of younger audiences in our country if launched. However, there is no official word from the Japanese brand regarding this. Meanwhile, the manufacturer recently launched a colour customisation option for MT-15 in India which lest a buyer choose from 11 different colour combinations. More

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      2021 Ducati Diavel 1260 Lamborghini Edition Revealed

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      Ducati Diavel Lamborghini Edition
      The limited-run Ducati Diavel 1260 Lamborghini Edition is expected to go on sale from January 2021 onwards

      A couple of weeks after Ducati revealed the 2021 version of Diavel 1260, the Italian superbike manufacturer has now unveiled a limited-run Lamborghini Edition of the same. This special edition of the muscle cruiser was unveiled at the fourth episode of Ducati World Premiere.
      Ducati Diavel 1260 Lamborghini Edition has been inspired by the limited edition Lamborghini Siàn FKP 37 hybrid supercar. The power cruiser even sports the same colour scheme called Gea Green which has been used on the Siàn FKP 37 and looks exemplary on both vehicles.

      Lamborghini Inspired Design
      While Lamborghini has restricted this supercar to only 63 units of production model, Ducati has been more generous and will sell 630 units of the special edition Diavel 1260. Both Lamborghini and Ducati designers have worked hand in hand to deliver something worth being a Limited Edition. To add to the premiumness, the new Diavel gets golden USD forks.
      However, the highlight in this design remains the golden forged rims used in the alloy wheels. The typical Ducati Red is used for colouring the Brembo brake calipers. Even the frame incorporated has shades of gold in it. Other design highlights which are inspired by Siàn FKP 37 are radiator covers, air intakes, fuel tank cover, mudguards, muffler and seat cover.

      The dashboard cover and headlight frame like all the above mentioned components have been made of carbon fibre designed by superimposing floating elements on the main structure of the bike. The bike also pays homage to Automobili Lamborghini’s founding year by imprinting the number 63 on its semi-fairing. The Y-shaped details in FKP 37 have been carried over to the Ducati’s Y-shaped cutouts in the saddle and hexagonal muffler.
      Mechanical Details & Features
      Diavel 1260 Lamborghini has been built on the same tubular steel trellis frame as the regular model and is assisted by fully adjustable Öhlins suspensions at the front and rear. Other components like the 17-inch wheels with 240mm profile tyres have been carried over from the standard model. It tips the weighing scales at 220 kg.

      Coming to its performance, Diavel 1260 Lamborghini is powered by a 1262cc L-Twin Testastretta DVT engine. In its Euro 5 configuration, this unit pushes out a maximum of 162 hp at 9,500 rpm and a peak torque of 129 Nm at 7500 rpm. Being a Ducati it comes with a host of electronic aids such as Cornering ABS EVO, Bosch’s 6-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (6D IMU), Ducati Power Launch EVO (DPL), Cruise Control and Traction Control EVO (DTC).
      At a price of USD 31,995 (Rs 23.63 lakhs), it is a healthy USD 11,700 (Rs 8.64 lakhs) costlier than its base model. Along with this special edition motorcycle, consumers can also opt for a special jet-style helmet with coordinated graphics, designed by Centro Stile Ducati with the number 63 badging. More

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      Aprilia SXR 160 Officially Teased – Production Starts Next Month

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      2021 Aprilia SXR 160
      Piaggio India ready to begin Aprilia SXR 160 production at Baramiati plant

      Piaggio India is set to start Aprilia SXR 160 production at its Baramati plant. Aprilia SXR 160 was showcased earlier this year at Auto Expo 2020, Greater Noida. The premium scooter brings together style, performance and a comfy riding experience.
      SXR 160 relies on its next-gen global design appeal and tech advanced features for a premium experience. Its unique placement will create a new premium scooter market category. Power comes from a BSVI 160 CC engine with three-valve Fuel Injection (FI) clean emission engine tech.

      On the exterior is a 3 coat HD body paint finish, Aprilia signature graphics, matt black design trims, and dark chrome elements. Design elements draw from sharp body lines, and geometric contours. The light element is built on wrap around LED tech twin crystal headlights and eye line position lights that merge front indicator blinkers. Diamond reflection wrap around LED taillights with integrated rear blinkers fits right in with its modern appeal.
      Designed To Improve Ride Experience
      An ergonomically well-positioned raised steering handlebar with feather touch switches enables ease of operation. Seating position enables rider’s feet to touch the ground to start, slow down or wait at a signal. Dual telescope front suspension and adjustable rear suspension are tuned for daily commute. This can be altered through rear suspension adjustment if on a different road surface, they can do so by adjusting the rear suspension.

      Ride experience and comfort gains from bigger, longer, comfy and ergonomic seats in art leather suede feel finished in special stitch pattern in grey and red threads. The 210 cm sq. multifunctional all digital cluster lets riders view multiple features.
      Mobile connectivity accessory connects one’s phone to the scooter to help locate it, and to raise a security alarm, or immobilize it as necessary. Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with ventilated disk brakes and twin pots calliper hydraulic brakes offer grand braking performance.
      Piaggio India dealership network
      The company is keen on quick dealer network expansion to cater to customers better for its new scheduled launches. Piaggio India works out of over 250 dealerships, and this number is to be increased for over 400+ dealerships. To ensure this, the company welcomes premium mindset entrepreneurs to the company’s dealership business model to take it to new towns and cities.
      Diego Graffi, Chairman and Managing Director, Piaggio India said, “We are extremely excited to soon introduce the highly anticipated and a unique, premium proposition for our discerning customers. As promised at the Auto Expo 2020, we are gearing up for the production of Aprilia SXR 160 in India and unfolding a new chapter for the scooter industry. With its highly innovative design, the SXR 160 is set to create a new unmatched experience of premium style, high comfort and best in class performance.” More

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      Hero Sales, Exports Oct 2020 – Splendor, Passion, Pleasure, Destini, Maestro

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      New Hero Splendor
      Hero MotoCorp sold a total of 7,91,137 two-wheelers in the domestic market and 15,711 two-wheelers in overseas markets in October 2020

      Hero MotoCorp continues to register good sales volumes in both domestic and overseas markets. This can be established by the recent sales figures shared by the company for the month of October 2020. The world’s largest two-wheelers manufacturer is currently having a ball at the market.
      Domestic Market- Splendor Leads the Way
      In the domestic market, Hero has sold a total of 7,91,137 two-wheelers last month which makes a YoY growth of 34.78 percent and an MoM growth of 13.46 percent. Last year, Hero sold 5,86,988 units during the same period whereas the company recorded sales of 6,97,293 units in September this year.
      The success can be largely attributed to Splendor as usual. Hero Motocorp sold 3,15,798 units of the entry-level bike which was a 19.56 percent YoY growth and a 12.68 percent MoM growth. The company retailed 2,64,137 units and 2,80,250 units in October 2019 and September 2020 respectively. This was followed by another entry-level motorcycle HF Deluxe which recorded 2,33,061 units retailed in October this year.
      Hero registered a 25.67 percent YoY growth and a 7.80 percent MoM growth for the 100cc motorcycle. This was as a result of 1,85,798 units registered in October 2019 and 2,16,201 units registered in September 2020. Splendor and HF Deluxe are also the only two products to record a 6-digit sales figure.
      Hero Domestic Sales Oct 2020 vs Oct 2019 (YoY) vs Sep 2020 (MoM)
      Next to follow are Glamour and Passion at the third and fourth position respectively. While the former has registered sales of 78,439 units, the latter registered 75,50 units Glamour recorded a massive YoY growth of 91.80 percent and an MoM growth of 12.90 percent. On the other hand, Passion recorded a YoY growth of 64.47 percent and an MoM growth 19.34 percent.
      The bikes were followed by the company’s range of scooters namely- Destini 125, Pleasure and Maestro in the fifth, sixth and seventh positions respectively. All three scooters recorded respective sales of 26,714 units; 23,392 units; and 23,340 units in October this year. While Destini recorded the maximum 157.58 percent of YoY growth, Maestro registered the highest 65.66 percent MoM growth.
      Hero Exports Oct 2020 vs Oct 2019 (YoY) vs Sep 2020 (MoM)
      Exports- Splendor Leads Here As Well
      When it comes to exports, Splendor again took the lead as 5,291 units of the bike were shipped overseas. This led to a massive 204.43 percent YoY growth and 38.07 percent MoM growth. This was followed by HF Deluxe and Achiever (discontinued in India) with sales figures of 2,515 units and 2,489 units respectively. Their respective YoY growths were 31.81 percent and a huge 504.13 percent.
      In total Hero MotoCorp shipped out 15,711 two-wheelers in October this year. The company sold 12,260 two-wheelers last year during the same period whereas it sold 11,665 units in September this year. This resulted in YoY growth of 28.15 percent and a MoM growth of 34.68 percent. More

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      2021 Honda Rebel 1100 Cruiser Debuts – Gets DCT Automatic Gearbox

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      2021 Honda Rebel 1100
      2021 Honda Rebel 1100 Cruiser is one of the few bikes around to be offered with a DCT automatic gearbox

      After intense speculation and rumours, Honda has finally unveiled its flagship cruiser Rebel 1100. Several design renderings have been previously doing rounds on the internet. The cruiser motorcycle has been designed and conceptualised in line with Honda’s new “Relax and Excite” design theme.
      Honda claims that the latest iteration of the premium cruiser is an easy-to-ride motorcycle and will cater to a wide range of audiences. It will be offered in two variants- Rebel 1100 and Rebel 1100 DCT. The cruiser shares its underpinnings and powertrain with Honda Africa Twin.

      Powertrain & Transmission
      It draws its power from a 1084cc Unicam parallel-twin engine (with PGM-Fi) which has a 270° phased crankshaft and uneven firing interval sourced from CRF1100L. This makes for a strong low-end performance.
      It puts out 87 PS of power at 7000rpm and 98Nm of torque at 4750rpm. This is less than the output received at the adventure motorcycle which produces 102 PS of power and 105 Nm of torque. Transmission duties are handled either by a six-speed manual or a DCT automatic gearbox.
      Specs
      Honda Rebel 1100
      Engine
      1084cc liquid-cooled, parallel twin
      Power
      87 PS @ 7000 rpm
      Torque
      98 Nm @ 4750 rpm
      Transmission
      6 MT / 6 DCT
      Front Suspension
      43mm fork; 4.8 inches of travel
      Rear Suspension
      single shock; 3.7 inches of travel
      Front Tyre
      130/70-18
      Rear Tyre
      180/65-16
      Front Brake
      30mm discs
      Rear Brake
      256mm disc
      Wheelbase
      59.8 inches / 1519 mm
      Seat Ht
      27.5 inches / 700
      Kerb Wt
      487 pounds / 220 kgs
      Fuel Tank
      3.6 gallons / 13.62 liters
      Hardware
      Coming to its dynamics, the bike sits on a tubular steel frame which is assisted by 43mm conventional telescopic forks at front and twin Showa shocks with piggyback reservoirs. It rides on 18-inch front and 16-inch rear wheels which derive their stopping power from twin 330mm discs with a four-piston caliper and a single 256mm disc respectively. These are assisted by a dual-channel ABS. Saddle height is extremely low at 700mm and it tips the weighing scales at 220 kg (kerb weight).
      Design & Features on offer
      In terms of styling, it draws inspiration from other members of the Rebel family and influence of a Bobber design is clearly visible on the bike. When it comes to features, it gets an all-LED lighting setup and a single-pod LCD digital instrument display.

      It also receives a bunch of electronic aids such as multiple riding modes (Rain, Sport & User) with a ride-by-wire technology, Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), Cruise Control, 3-level Traction Control and Wheelie Control. Honda has also provided a USC charging slot in the small storage compartment underneath the seat.
      Prices of the new Rebel 1100 have been revealed and have been pegged at USD 9,299 (INR 6.87 lakh) which undercuts Harley-Davidson Iron 1200 and the Forty-Eight by USD 800 (Rs 59,000) and USD 2,000 (Rs 1.48 lakh) respectively in international markets.
      Honda is also offering a number of optional accessories such as a batwing fairing, soft saddlebags with rack and quilted saddles in black and tan. It is yet to be seen whether Honda brings this high-end cruiser to India or not. As of now, there has been no word from Honda whether it will bring any member of the Rebel series in future. More

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      Royal Enfield Classic 350 New Colours – Orange Ember, Metallo Silver Launched

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      Royal Enfield Classic 350 New Colours
      Royal Enfield motorcycles and the ease and convenience of custom-made two-wheelers

      Royal Enfield motorcycles have an unprecedented fan following that hasn’t ebbed over time. If anything, curiosity around new motorcycles and old are a tell tale sign of the level of interest Royal Enfield generates time and again. In fact, Royal Enfield is already busy trying to make the ensuing decade a strong one.
      One of its core strategies will be a number of new launches for its domestic market where sales is strongest, and launches for international markets as the manufacturer is keen on gaining market share as a global mid segment bike manufacturer. The mid segment ranges from 250cc to 750 cc, and Royal Enfield already has a strong presence here. In recent times, the segment is getting a slight push from 350cc cruisers, which is turn will help build the segment, a space where Royal Enfield continues to dominate, and has for the longest time been a lone wolf in the market.
      Royal Enfield Make It Yours platform
      The current quarter saw Royal Enfield Meteor being launched in the 350cc segment, again a strong suit for the manufacturer. In increasing its overall appeal, Royal Enfield has never shied away from the availability of colours and accessories. The approach works well as buyers are keen to customise bikes as per personal choice.
      This is further helped by Royal Enfield Make It Yours platform. The initiative lets one personalise the bike right from the word go. Such flexibility and wide range availability means takin the bike home from the dealership is a one time job rather than incorporate a personal touch as and when something becomes available.

      MiY helps build custom-made motorcycles as per consumer specs in 24 to 48 hours at the Chennai plant. Royal Enfield will ensure MiY is available for all its bikes at all dealerships over time. For new motorcycles, the option will be available from the beginning itself.
      Royal Enfield Classic 350 MiY
      When introduced in October 2020, the app-based, 3D Configurator was introduced to combine colours, trims, graphics, and accessories at the time of booking. At the time, the config choice was limited to its 650 Twin Motorcycles – the Interceptor 650, and Continental GT 650. Accessory warranty stands for two-years.
      Now, Royal Enfield Classic 350 can be gotten in a new Orange Ember shade, as also a Metallo Silver colour option. Bookings for the same open this week.
      Available at a price of Rs. 1,83,164 (ex-showroom, Delhi), the new offerings are part of Royal Enfield Make It Yours – MiY – initiative. As announced earlier, it’ll only be a matter of time until the initiative is available for the entire RE lineup right at the time of booking. More