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      New TVS Apache 200 Arrives In Showroom – Ride Modes, Top Speed

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      Image – Biker Babu
      TVS Motor has just launched an updated Apache 200 with first in segment features like ride modes

      Launched earlier this month at Rs 1.31 lakh, new TVS Apache RTR 200 4V comes with a range of updates including multiple segment-first features. It was launched as part of the celebrations for achieving 4 million global sales milestone.
      As may be recalled, Apache RTR is currently the second bestselling brand in the 150cc to 200cc segment. With several new features and price hike of just around Rs 1k, sales could witness an upswing in the coming months.
      New TVS Apache RTR 200 4V test ride
      While specs and features look impressive, how does the bike perform in the real world? To answer such questions, YouTuber Dino’s Vault has posted his first ride review of new Apache RTR 200 4V. The test run was conducted on a largely traffic free road, allowing the rider to test the bike’s top speed as well as other functions such as riding modes, slipper clutch, etc.
      One of the key additions in new RTR 200 4V is the ride modes of Urban, Rain and Sport. The difference between these is in the power and torque output and ABS response. These ride modes are meant to be used in different environments.
      [embedded content]
      As the name suggests, Urban mode is for tackling heavy traffic in city conditions. Similarly Rain mode is for wet conditions whereas Sport mode is for highways and racetracks. ABS response is adjusted in the ride modes, with the full potential unlocked in Rain mode.
      In Urban and Rain mode, the power and torque output is reduced to 17.32 ps / 16.51 Nm. The bike’s full potential can be unleashed in Sport mode, where it churns out 20.82 ps / 17.25 Nm. As shown in the video, the bike accelerates quite quickly in Sport mode. It achieves a top speed of 129 kmph and appears to max out at that level.
      Other key updates
      Other segment-first features on-board new RTR 200 4V include premium Showa front suspension with preload adjustment and 3-step adjustable levers. The rider says that the adjustable levers have been really useful to him, as he has shorter fingers. Talking about the riding stance, the YouTuber says that the bike is quite comfortable even when it has slightly rear-set footpegs. He also likes the pulsating exhaust note, which has been a signature feature of Apache RTR motorcycles.
      In terms of visual enhancements, TVS has added a new race inspired Matte Blue colour option. This comprises an exciting dual-tone theme of black and blue, with the latter visible on the headlamp, tank, front fender, engine cowl, and tail section. Red decals further enhance the bike’s sporty profile. More

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      Honda Hornet Repsol And Dio Repsol Launched – Price Up To Rs 2.5k More

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      Honda Hornet 2.0 Repsol Edition
      The Honda Hornet 2.0 Repsol and Dio Repsol get their multi-color liveries inspired by the brand’s RC 213V MotoGP bike

      The Honda Hornet 2.0 and Dio receive the famous Repsol racing livery in India to commemorate the two wheeler giant’s 800 MotoGP victories. The Repsol Honda Editions will have limited production run like in the past but Honda did not reveal the number of units it is planning to produce.
      Honda Hornet 2.0 Repsol Edition
      The recently launched Hornet 2.0 embraces the Repsol Honda livery pretty well. Inspired by Honda’s RC 213V MotoGP machine, the motorcycle is swathed in orange with red and black accents. The prominent Repsol branding adorns the fuel tank while the wheels are finished in matching orange. The white belly pan with Honda branding adds a sporty touch as well.
      Honda
      Price Nov 2020 Ex-sh Gurgaon
      Dio Std
      63,907
      Dio DLX
      67,257
      Dio Repsol
      69,757
      Hornet 2.0
      1,26,351
      Hornet 2.0 Repsol
      1,28,351
      There are no mechanical changes. The Honda Hornet 2.0 Repsol Edition continues to be powered by a 184.4 cc air-cooled engine which develops 17 hp and 16.1 Nm of torque. It employs a 5-speed gearbox.
      The mid-premium motorcycle is equipped with LED headlamp and taillight, fully digital instrument console, upside-down front fork with golden finish, monoshock rear suspension, front and rear disc brakes with single-channel ABS, tubeless tyres and so on.
      2020 Honda Dio Repsol Edition
      Honda Dio Repsol Edition
      The Honda Dio Repsol Edition too employs the same color combination but the designers have gone ahead and sprinkled ‘Repsol’ branding all over the scooter’s body panels. Orange dominates the wheels and steering cowl while the grab rails are finished in red.
      Again, the changes are purely cosmetic save for the addition of alloy wheels (regular variants employ contrast colored steel wheels). The automatic scooter employs a recently updated BS6 compliant 110 cc fuel-injected motor which has 7.65 hp and 9 Nm on store. Transmission is a CVT.
      Feature highlights include engine start-stop switch, pass switch, side-stand indicator with engine cut-off, telescopic front suspension, external fuel filler lid, adjustable rear suspension, on-board diagnostic feature, eco indicator, and combi-braking system (CBS).
      Prices
      Of course, the Honda Hornet 2.0 and Dio Repsol editions command a premium over the regular variants. The limited edition version of the street fighter is priced at INR 1,28,351, a premium of INR 2,000. The Dio Repsol retails at INR 69,757, INR 2,500 dearer than the mid-range DLX variant. All prices are ex-showroom, Delhi.
      Honda’s 2020 MotoGP campaign
      With their star rider Marc Marquez out of this season due to injury, Honda’s MotoGP 2020 championship campaign took a serious hit. With one round still to go, the rider’s championship has been wrapped up by Suzuki’s Joan Mir who has been very consistent with his performance through out the season. More

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      KTM Sales, Exports Oct 2020 – Duke, RC 125, 200, 250, 390 ADV

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      KTM Lullanagar
      KTM domestic sales increase 4.55 percent in Oct 19, exports 53.33 percent

      Automotive sales are on the rise. Markets are slowly but surely coming out of the ill effects of the pandemic situation while the economy is also showing more promise.
      KTM India has reported an increase in terms of domestic sales and exports for the month of October 2020. There was an increase in YoY sales while MoM domestic sales have declined.
      KTM YoY Domestic Sales and Exports
      KTM has noted a 4.55 percent growth in terms of domestic sales in Oct 20 with a total of 6,757 units sold in the month over 6,463 units sold in Oct 19. Of the company lineup, it was the KTM 200 that was most in demand with 2,695 units sold in the past month.
      The KTM 125 of which 2,312 units were sold, also added good numbers to total sales. Both these models commanded a 39.88 percent and 34.22 percent market share respectively.
      KTM Domestic Sales Oct 2020
      Sales growth was also noted for the KTM 390 and KTM 250 with 1,038 units and 712 units sold respectively in the past month. Exports, which increased 53.33 percent, saw the KTM 390 and 200 most in demand in global markets while the KTM 125 noted a de-growth. Total exports in the Oct 20 stood at 3,568 units, up from 2,327 units sold in Oct 19.
      KTM MoM Domestic sales show de-growth
      There was a dip in KTM MoM domestic sales by 8.40 percent to 6,757 units as compared to 7,377 units sold in Sept 20. The KTM 125 was the only model to note an increase in sales by 4.29 percent while the 200, 390 and 250 experienced de-growth. MoM exports however grew 24.93 percent to 3,568 units, up from 2,856 units sold in Sep 20.
      KTM Exports Oct 2020
      The company now gears up for the launch of the KTM 250 Adventure as it starts arriving at dealerships and unofficial bookings have also opened. To ensure pricing at more affordable levels as compared to that seen on the 390 Adv, the company has brought in a monochrome LCD unit instead of a colour TFT display while the 250 Adv will also not receive traction control, riding modes, cornering ABS and navigation.
      The upcoming 250 Adv will be positioned on the KTM 390 Adventure frame and will be powered by the same engine that powers the 250 Duke. This 250cc, liquid cooled engine will offer 30 hp power and 24 Nm torque mated to a 6 speed gearbox. It will receive dual channel ABS and suspension via USD fork in the front and monoshock at the rear. There are no indications on pricing as on date but considering the KTM 250 Duke is priced at Rs.2.09 lakhs, the 250 Adventure could carry a price tag of around Rs.2.35 lakhs. Ex-sh. More

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      Simple Energy Electric Scooter Claims 230 Kms Range – Ather 450X Rival

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      Simple Energy Electric Scooter at ARAI
      Simple Energy was founded is an electric mobility startup which was founded by Suhas Rajkumar in 2019

      Bengaluru-based electric mobility startup Simple Energy has been on the news ever since it revealed the Mark 2 electric scooter concept earlier this year. As per the latest development, the prototype version Mark 1 e-scooter has been tested at Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) in Kothrud, Pune which has returned positive results.
      Performance Test
      The development tests conducted by ARAI returned a single-charge range of 230 km in Eco mode, a top speed of 103 kmph and a 0-50 kmph acceleration in 3.6 seconds. Now, the firm is looking to raise investments for its production model Mark 2.
      The tests results have been slightly different from what was conducted by Simple Energy. In their internal tests, the company had claimed that its e-scooter can do around 280 km in a single charge, can attain a top speed of 100 kmph and a 0-50 kmph acceleration in just 3.2 seconds. However, the results obtained from ARAI tests are way ahead of current league of e-scooters on sale in India – including the likes of Ather 450X.
      Simple Energy Production Plans
      Earlier, Simple Energy had announced that Mark 2 electric scooter will be made in India with a 90 percent level of localisation. This would make it eligible for benefits by the Government of India under FAME II (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles) Scheme. In order to achieve this level of localisation, Simple Energy has gained INR 1.3 crore and plans to seek fresh investments of USD 1 million (Rs 7.5 crore) by next month.

      This will help kick start production at its Yelahanka facility near Bengaluru which has an annual production capacity of 50,000 units. The prototype scooter is powered by a 4 Kilowatt-hour battery pack that weighs 6 kg developed in-house by Simple Energy.
      The battery can be charged 0-80 percent in just 60 minutes of fast charging. Simple Energy is planning to start experience centres in four major and two smaller cities along with exclusive Simple Energy dealerships and service centers.
      Mark 2 Details
      Speaking of its design, it carries a futuristic styling that comes with a geometric body design, LED headlamps, LED taillights, a generous footboard and ergonomic seating. In terms of features, it gets a midship mounted electric motor, an IP67 rated touchscreen display, 4G connectivity and a chain-sprocket type final drive.
      Simple Energy intends to start production of Mark 2 by February next year with a launch slated for mid-2021. Upon its launch, it will rival other electric scooters such as Ather 450X, TVS iQube and Bajaj Chetak. The startup announced that upon its launch, the e-scooter will be priced around Rs 1.10 lakh (ex-showroom). More

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      Bajaj Chetak Electric Sales Cross 1,000 Units Milestone Since Launch

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      Bajaj Chetak Electric
      Bajaj electric Chetak scooter wholesales surpass the 1k units milestone

      The electric two wheeler scene is India is small in volume, and isn’t likely to cause a dent in overall business anytime soon. While an electric future pursuit is ongoing, the way business is done has changed in a big way. Business no longer revolves around traditionally well known automakers with a large number of new independent auto business companies having stepped into the foray.
      Nevertheless, it’s not all silent from the more well-known names even though they may be running the electric business on the back of a single product. Bajaj electric Chetak is the company’s lone EV offering, and has thus far in 2020 reported wholesales of just over 1k units.
      Of course that’s a small percentage of Bajaj’s total business volume, and it’s these small steps that will help establish the EV business in a more noticeable manner in the years to come. While Bajaj has exited the scooter business in India, the electric Chetak has become its only scooter offering in an all new avatar.
      Bajaj Chetak electric sales
      Given that 2020 has created a dent in business operations, it’s likely that EV sales potential too has contracted even though companies have been able to report growth for electric vehicles. Bajaj electric Chetak wholesales for Q2 2020 is reported at 0. However, July to October showing has been on a growth chart. Q3 2020 sales surpassed 500 units. July sales is reported at 120 units, August at 192 units, and September at 288 units. The latter being the highest monthly reporting for the year.
      2020
      Chetak
      iQube
      Jan
      21
      0
      Feb
      100
      0
      Mar
      91
      18
      Apr
      0
      0
      May
      0
      0
      Jun
      0
      30
      Jul
      120
      23
      Aug
      192
      23
      Sep
      288
      7
      Oct
      258
      32
      Total
      1,070
      133
      Q4 2020 has gotten off on a strong foot with October 2020 sales reported at 258 units. In fact current response is noticeably improved as compared to Q1 2020 when just over 200 units were reported sold. Some credit to recent sales boost can be attributed to pent-up demand and improved sales during the recently concluded festive period.
      Bajaj and TVS electric two wheelers
      Bajaj isn’t the only big manufacturer offering an EV in the two-wheeler market. TVS does the same with its iQube unit launched early in 2020. TVS iQube wholesales for the YTD 2020 is reported at 133 units. Sales hasn’t surpassed double digits in any of the three quarters concluded in 2020. Highest sales is reported in Q3 2020 as 76 units.
      With efforts concentrated on the lakhs of units sold in a monthly basis, it’ll be a while until either of these companies are able to report high sales volumes for their electric models. In fact, it would be interesting to see at what rate new electric scooters and motorcycles are introduced by them considering regular petrol models are launched at a dime avdozen each year, even if its just a new skin or colour option.
      For October 2020, FADA reported collective EV two-wheeler retail sales at 2,613 units. The number was an improvement on 2,222 units reported a year earlier. The collective electric two-wheeler market at last month accounted for 0.25 percent of the total domestic two-wheeler market. More

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      Ducati Revives SP Moniker – Unveils 2021 Panigale V4 SP

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      2021 Ducati Panigale V4 SP
      Panigale V4 SP is the latest addition to the V4 lineup which makes it five motorcycles in the range

      It is a good time for Ducati fanboys as the latest edition of Ducati World Premiere saw the unveiling of not one but two motorcycles. Alongside Supersport 950, the Italian superbike brand also revealed the next generation of Panigale V4 SP thus reviving an iconic moniker of the brand from its yesteryears.
      SP stands for Sports Production and as described by Ducati it “is used to recognize a production bike with specific technical equipment that makes it faster on the track.” This is established by the fact that each of these V4 SP units will be individually numbered to lend an exclusive identity, however, production will not be in limited numbers.

      This moniker was last used in the 916 range of Ducati and is not going to replace Panigale V4R and both models will coexist alongside the other Panigale V4s. In fact, the homologation-spec superbike is USD 3,000 less expensive than V4S at USD 37,000.
      The V4 SP is essentially an amalgam of all Panigale V4s in the current lineup. It shares its mechanicals with Panigale S while certain design and aesthetic elements from V4R and Superleggera have been thrown in.

      Performance
      Coming to its most critical aspect- performance, Panigale V4 SP sources its power from the same 1103cc Desmosedici Stradale engine which also powers the base Panigale V4 and V4S models. This unit now complies with Euro-5 emission standards and returns an impressive output of 214 bhp at 13,000 rpm and 124 Nm of peak torque at 9000 rpm. Like the Superleggera and V4R, it gets STM EVO-SBK dry clutch which is accompanied by the customary growl from Desmosedici Stradale in the background.
      Hardware
      In terms of dynamics, it is based on the same platform as V4S and also inherits the latter’s Öhlins NIX 30 fork, TTX 36 rear shock, and electronic steering damper. Inclusion of semi-active suspension indicates that amateur riders would be more comfortable on V4 SP.

      Many components such as the lightweight 5-spoke carbon wheels, dry clutch, Brembo 330mm discs, brake calipers and master cylinders and carbon fibre winglets have been derived from Superleggera. Drop in unsprung mass in rims decreases moment of inertia for quicker handling. Also, it is helped by the fact that it is 1.4 kg lighter than V4S.
      Features
      It gets a host of electronic updates including Race A and Race B ride modes. The latter increases the torque band on lower three gear ratios to accommodate for low-grip conditions or for riders with less experience. It also gets Ducati Traction Control Evoluzione 3 (DTC Evo 3) an enhanced version of the existing traction control.

      The equipment also includes Ducati Data Analyzer+ with a GPS module. Apart from these updates, it also features the regular electronic package which comprises cornering ABS, wheelie control, engine brake control, launch control, slide control and a quick shifter.
      Panigale V4 SP is available in only a single colour scheme. The black paint with silver inserts on the tank is a tribute to ‘winter test’ colours used by Ducati’s MotoGP and WSB teams. Considering the past launches by Ducati in India, it is likely that the V4 SP will make it to India in 2021. More

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      Honda CB350 First Month Sales 1,290 Units – 42k RE Classic Sold In Oct 2020

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      Honda CB350 BigWing Dealership
      The Honda H’ness CB350 is offered in two variants – DLX and DLX Pro

      Honda Two Wheelers has officially launched their Royal Enfield Classic 350 rival, H’ness CB350 cruiser motorcycle in India. It follows in the footsteps of CB1100 EX and CB750, bearing the same CB silhouette and even though it receives some advanced features, it continues to exude the same old world charm in terms of design.
      In its first month of sales, production of the new Honda CB350 has touched 2,420 units while sales are at 1,290 units. This is nowhere close to rival Classic 350; which managed to sell almost 42,000 units in Oct 2020.
      Honda H’ness CB350 Price and Variants
      The Made-in-India Honda H’ness CB350 will appeal to the mid size motorcycle enthusiasts. Honda H’ness CB350 is offered in two variants of DLX and DLX Pro and priced at Rs.1.85 lakhs and Rs.1.90 lakhs respectively.
      Colours depend on variants with three single tones of Precious Red Metallic, Pearl Night Star Black and Matte Marshall Green Metallic for the DLX variant. The dual tone colours of Pearl Night Star Black with Spear Silver Metallic, Athletic Blue Metallic with Virtuous White and Matte Steel Black Metallic with Matte Massive Grey Metallic are reserved for the DLX Pro trim.
      Image – Abhinav Bhatt
      It gets the latest in terms of features with all LED lights at the front and rear, semi digital infotainment cluster, digital readouts on its two trip meters, odometer, gear position indicator, fuel gauge and range indicator along with average and real time fuel efficiency.
      Features on the DLX Pro also include Bluetooth connectivity with turn by turn navigation, music and calls on control along with Honda Selectable Torque Converter, a first in segment feature. The fuel tank is finished in a dual tone while the H’ness CB350 rides on wider 19 inch front and 18 inch rear tyres offering better on road stability.
      Power and Performance
      The new Honda cruiser bike receives its power via a 350cc, 4 stroke, OHC, single cylinder engine with PGM-FI technology. The engine offers 21 hp power at 5,500 rpm and 30 Nm torque at 3,000 rpm making the CB350 the torquiest motorcycle in its class.
      The engine is mated to a 5 speed gearbox and gets assist and slipper clutch. Suspension is via telescopic fork in the front and twin-shock at the rear. Braking is via 310mm front and 240mm rear disc brakes with dual channel ABS.
      Honda H’ness CB350 is on sale via the company’s Big Wing dealerships. Its competitors will include the Royal Enfield Classic 350, Meteor 350, Jawa Forty Two and Benelli Imperiale 400. More

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      Top 10 Two Wheelers Oct 2020 – Splendor Overtakes Activa With 20% Growth

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      Hero Splendor No 1
      Top 10 two wheeler wholesales grow in double digits for October 2020

      Top 10 two wheeler wholesales for October 2020 are reported as remarkably higher than a year earlier. Sales grew to 14,14,567 units, up from 12,06,437 units at 17.25 percent gain. Volume gain is at 2,08,130 units.
      Of this, the lion’s share goes to Hero Splendor, the country’s top selling motorcycle since ages. Sales is reported at 3,15,798 units, up 19.56 percent from 2,64,137 units at volume gain of 51,661 units. Sales reported accounts for 22.32 percent of total top sales.
      Honda Activa, as usual remains the top selling scooter. While that reputation is difficult to match, Honda scooter sales has in fact taken quite a beating. In fact, it’s one of 3 in the list that’s reported a decline, with Activa’s sales contraction being most steep. Sales fell to 2,39,570 units at 14.83 percent decline, down from 2,81,273 units.
      Despite losing volume of 41,703 units, market share remains formidable at 16.94 percent. Hero’s next volume turner, HF Deluxe enjoys similar market share at 2,33,061 units sold. Sales grew 25.47 percent at volume gain of 47,310 units, up from 1,85,751 units.
      Top 10 Two Wheelers Oct 2020
      Bajaj Pulsar sales growth
      Bajaj Pulsar series sales growth stood at 44.72 percent. Sales is up at 1,38,218 units from 95,509 units at volume gain of 42,709 units. Market share is at 9.77 percent. Honda CB Shine takes fifth spot at 1,18,547 units sold. sales grew 35.11 percent, up from 87,743 units at volume gain of 30,804 units. Market share stood at 8.38 percent.
      TVS XL moped continues a positive run at 80,268 units sold. Sales growth is reported at 33.39 percent, up from 60.174 units. Volume gain of 20,094 units has ensured market share of 5.67 percent. Hero Glamour sales grew at a high 91.80 percent. Wholesales are reported at 78,439 units, up from 40,896 units. Volume gain stood at 37,543 units helping it secure 5.55 percent of the pie.
      No
      Top 10 Two Wheelers
      Oct-20
      Oct-19
      1
      Hero Splendor (+20%)
      3,15,798
      2,64,137
      2
      Honda Activa (-15%)
      2,39,570
      2,81,273
      3
      Hero HF Deluxe (+25%)
      2,33,061
      1,85,751
      4
      Bajaj Pulsar (+44%)
      1,38,218
      95,509
      5
      Honda CB Shine (+35%)
      1,18,547
      87,743
      6
      TVS XL (+33%)
      80,268
      60,174
      7
      Hero Glamour (+91%)
      78,439
      40,896
      8
      Hero Passion (+64%)
      75,540
      45,928
      9
      TVS Jupiter (-1%)
      74,159
      74,560
      10
      Bajaj Platina (-13%)
      60,967
      70,466
      –
      Total (+17%)
      14,14,567
      12,06,437
      Closely contested bottom half
      Hero MotoCorp takes eight spot with Passion. Sales grew a healthy 64.47 percent up at 75,540 units from 45,928 units with volumes growing by 29,612 units. This gave the motorcycle the much needed boost to stay close at just over 5 percent share just like the previous two place holders. TVS Jupiter scooter too reported similar sales share in the top 10 list but unlike the other 5 pointers, Jupiter sales are at a slight decline. Sales fell 0.54 percent having lost 401 units in volume. Sales fell to 74,159 units from 74,560 units.
      The other big loser in the coveted list is Bajaj Platina. Sales fell 13.48 percent taking it’s share to 4.31 percent. Volume declined by 9,499 units at 60,967 units from 70,466 units a year earlier. More