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      Hero Mavrick 440 Spotted Testing – Mules Reveal, Fascia, Components

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      Hero Mavrick 440 Spotted TestingWhen compared to Harley-Davidson X440, Hero Mavrick 440 spotted testing, dons a different design language with less premium componentryThe strategic partnership between Hero MotoCorp and Harley-Davidson has spawned one motorcycle as of now. This is Harley-Davidson X440, which is manufactured by Hero MotoCorp. Now, Hero is launching their version of this motorcycle with slightly less premium componentry and a different design ethos.Hero Mavrick 440 Spotted TestingThe Indian 2W juggernaut is stepping up its game in premium motorcycle segment by launching its biggest-ever and most expensive product. The name Mavrick 440 is highly likely, as indicated by the recent teasers where company is revealing one letter at a time. Positioned as company’s flagship offering, it will be launched on 22nd January.Media drives for the same could be between 15th and 16th February. There have been multiple test mule sightings before around Jaipur. None of them showed the bike’s front fascia and visual distinctions from its alliance cousin Harley-Davidson X440. The recent spy shots surfacing internet show just that.For starters, Hero MotoCorp is incorporating a different design language than what Harley-Davidson is offering. This is evident, especially at the front where there is an all-new headlight, handlebars, and the likes. Hero Mavrick 440 spotted testing also shows stylish bar-end mirrors that are likely to be part of accessories.X440 test mules with accessoriesWhen compared to 43mm Showa USD telescopic front forks on Harley-Davidson X440, Hero Mavrick 440 gets RSU telescopic setup. This will establish a hierarchy in premiumness between Mavrick and X440. Another major difference is a new fuel tank that has tank shrouds to establish a slightly sportier and street-bike-like appeal.Brand new headlight with ‘H’ insigniaBoth X440 and Mavrick 440 get a round LED headlight setup, but Hero gives a different LED signature on the inside. This signature mimics an ‘H’, comparable to what Hero offered with 2023 Xpulse 200 and Xpulse 200 Pro. Actual headlight bulbs get a reflector setup, unlike projectors on Xpulse.Where powertrain is concerned, Hero Mavrick 440 spotted, shows the same 440cc single-cylinder engine as X440. To establish a hierarchy between the two, Hero’s offering could sport lesser performance metrics. Also, the round exhaust end-can of X440 is replaced with a different unit on Hero’s Mavrick.New Harley Davidson X440Mated to a 6-speed gearbox, X440 offers 27 bhp of peak power and 38 Nm of peak torque. X440 boasts an all-metal build too, something that Hero might change with Mavrick 440 with more plastic and fibre components to save cost and weight. Speaking of cost, X440 retails between Rs. 2,39,500 and Rs. 2,79,500 (ex-sh). Hero’s pricing would be significantly lower at around Rs. 2 lakh.Where features are concerned, we can expect the same TFT instrument screen from Karizma XMR along with Bluetooth connectivity, smartphone integration with a dedicated app for Android and Apple devices, turn-by-turn navigation and more. Primary rivals include Royal Enfield Classic 350 and other retro classics from Jawa, Yezdi and Honda.Source More

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      RE Himalayan 450 Raid Will Offer More Off-road-worthy Kit – Launch In 2027

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      RE Himalayan 450 Raid RenderAs Himalayan 450 Raid will focus on off-road tracks, it will get a unique set of features and equipmentWhile the all-new Himalayan 450 comes across as a capable ADV bike, there seems to be more wiggle room in terms of extreme off-roading capabilities. As a solution, Royal Enfield is developing an off-road-focused version of the Himalayan 450. To be called the RE Himalayan 450 Raid, the bike will cater to aspiring enthusiasts as well as professionals.RE Himalayan 450 Raid – New equipmentOff-road tracks can vary significantly, which may require the user to adjust the suspension. The changes may also be needed based on the user’s weight and riding preferences. Himalayan 450 Raid will be suitably placed, as it will have fully adjustable front and rear suspension. The existing model has 43MM USD front forks and a monoshock rear suspension.Both front and rear wheels have 200 mm of travel. With the adjustable suspension, users should also be able to get a higher ground clearance. The current model already offers a sizable 230 mm of ground clearance. In comparison, KTM 390 Adventure has 200 mm of ground clearance.Some off-road environments may necessitate a higher ground clearance, which is where the Himalayan 450 Raid can deliver better results. Royal Enfield may also be looking to reduce the kerb weight of Himalayan 450 Raid. It can be achieved with the use of rally-ready components. The existing Himalayan 450 has a kerb weight of 196 kg.Himalayan RaidHimalayan 450 Raid will be getting most of the off-road focused equipment as standard. It includes the engine and rally sump guards and knuckle guards. As of now, Hero MotoCorp is acing the extreme off-road-worthy equipment territory with Pro variant for Xpulse 200. Royal Enfield will soon follow Hero’s footsteps.Himalayan 450 Raid performanceAnother key upgrade will be tubeless spoke wheels. These will be offered as standard with Himalayan 450 Raid. Royal Enfield already uses the tubeless spoke wheels for the standard model, but only for export markets. It is currently not offered in India, as it needs approval from the Bureau of Indian Standards. This process may take some time. Tubeless spoke wheels are preferred, as they offer the best of both worlds.Powering the bike will be the 452cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled DOHC engine that generates 40.02 PS of max power and 40 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. Himalayan 450 Raid will be getting a new exhaust, which can help boost performance with better airflow. A lightweight profile can also help increase power to weight ratio.Himalayan Raid RenderHimalayan 450 Raid launch in 2027It is believed that Himalayan 450 Raid will be launched in 2026. However, recent reports indicate that the launch has been delayed by a few months. As a result, there’s a high probability that Himalayan 450 Raid will be launched in early 2027.With the updated equipment and features, Himalayan 450 Raid will be priced higher in comparison to the standard model. The existing model is available in the price range of Rs 2.85 lakh to Rs 2.98 lakh. Himalayan 450 Raid could be offered at a price of around Rs 3.5 lakh. This will closely match the pricing of next-gen KTM 390 Adventure.Source More

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      Royal Enfield Classic 650 Spotted? Or Is This Bullet 650?

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      Royal Enfield Classic 650Whether this is Royal Enfield Bullet 650 or Classic 650, it will get the same 648cc parallel-twin motor from other 650cc bikes in the company’s portfolioRoyal Enfield currently has around 15 motorcycles pending in the pipeline. These include 350cc motorcycles, 450cc motorcycles and 650cc motorcycles. Out of these, there are test mule sightings for around four motorcycles. These are Classic 350 Bobber, 450cc 390 Duke rival, Shotgun 650 and more recently, Classic 650.Royal Enfield Classic 650 spotted – Spy shots surfaceA recent report covers a new 650cc test mule. Looking at it, we can’t help but wonder whether this is the Bullet 650 that we all crave. Bullet brand recently got a slight re-design as seen with new Bullet 350. This new 650cc motorcycle is either a Classic 650 or is very well the real deal, which is a Bullet 650.We say Royal Enfield Bullet 650 is the real deal because it is an absolute timeless legend. This motorcycle has stood the test of time and still has a huge draw in Indian audience. The word Bullet is legitimately more popular than its maker Royal Enfield in India. Such is its popularity. Making a 650cc version of this design seems to be a strategic move.This motorcycle bears uncanny semblance with Bullet 350 and bears an overall similar silhouette. Making the bump to 650cc class, Royal Enfield seems to be giving it slightly upmarket elements. A retro headlight cap seen with Classic 350 and split seat design and wire-spoke wheels are notable elements.Royal Enfield Classic 650 profileAs opposed to Super Meteor 650, there are less premium bits on this test mule. For example, front suspension is RSU telescopic units like Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650 and not USD telescopic units such as Super Meteor 650 and Shotgun 650. The latter’s blacked-out engine bay and exhaust are absent with the recently seen test mule as well.Is this Classic 650 or Bullet 650?There is a very high probability of this being a Classic 650 as well. For starters, Classic 350 is the highest-selling 350cc motorcycle in India and is slowly becoming a default for retro classic motorcycles. Bringing this vibe into 650cc portfolio will establish familiarity and might become the go-to motorcycle for existing Classic 350 owners while upgrading.Semblance with Classic 350 design is evident too. Both Classic and Bullet lines used to get a 500cc engine and is not on sale anymore. This test mule will be the logical replacement for those.Royal Enfield Classic 650 SpottedThe next highest-selling middle-weight motorcycle?If it bears either Classic 650 or Bullet 650 name, yeah. We can see this motorcycle quickly climbing up the sales charts to surpass Super Meteor 650 and even the OG 650cc Twins Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650. The retro charm this motorcycle radiates, is unshakable and will probably invoke more nostalgia than Interceptor 650.Regardless, this motorcycle will feature the same 648cc parallel-twin engine that generates 47 bhp of power and 52 Nm of torque. A 6-speed gearbox, RSU telescopic front forks, twin shock absorbers at the rear, wire-spoke wheels, chrome ORVMs, chrome exhaust are notable highlights.Source More

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      Honda Vithalapur Plant Drives Expansion with 3rd Assembly Line

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      Honda two wheeler’s 3rd Assembly Line at its Gujarat plantHonda Vithalapur Plant’s 3rd Assembly Line Boosts EfficiencyHonda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) propels its growth trajectory with the inauguration of the innovative 3rd Assembly Line at the Vithalapur plant in Gujarat. This state-of-the-art facility signifies a colossal leap forward. And augments annual production capacity by an impressive 6.5 lakh units.At the core of this expansion are key models such as the ever-popular Activa and Dio, alongside their 125cc variants. This strategic move at the Gujarat plant holds particular significance. Especially in the global engine production arena. This comes about through dedicated focus on the 250cc and above engine category to meet global market needs.Honda Empowers Female Workforce in Gujarat’s Manufacturing LandscapeHonda is unwaveringly committed to the development and empowerment of its female workforce. This proactive approach aligns with the company’s vision for accelerated and robust growth within the two-wheeler manufacturing sector. While also setting an exemplary standard for the industry.Sustainability takes centre stage at the Vithalapur facility. A remarkable 75 percent of the electrical power utilized is sourced from renewables, underscoring Honda’s dedication to environmentally friendly practices. The facility actively engages in rainwater harvesting. And contributes to zero liquid discharge and zero waste to landfill, solidifying its commitment to eco-conscious operations.Wheels of Change: Honda’s Visionary Road to Carbon Neutrality by 2030 in GujaratBeyond operational excellence, Honda integrates Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives seamlessly. These initiatives span healthcare, education, road safety, and gender equality, reflecting the company’s holistic commitment to societal welfare and empowerment.Looking towards the future, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India sets a visionary goal. Achieving carbon neutrality by 2030, with a specific focus on the Gujarat plant. This commitment resonates with the global call for sustainable practices and dovetails harmoniously with manufacturing excellence. In the process, cementing the plant’s role in this transformative journey.Scooter Revolution: Powers the Scooterisation Movement from the frontThe 3rd Assembly Line at the Vithalapur plant is not merely an expansion in capacity. It marks a significant stride towards a sustainable and efficient future. Honda’s dedication to innovation and environmental consciousness positions it at the vanguard of the two-wheeler manufacturing industry.With this accelerated expansion and steadfast commitment to sustainable practices, HMSI solidifies its position as a global leader. Alongside it underscores the transformative impact of the Vithalapur facility in shaping the future of the automotive industry. The significance of this expansion extends beyond quantitative measures. And etches a qualitative shift towards a greener, more inclusive, and technologically advanced future. More

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      QJ Motor Slashed Price By Up To Rs. 40K – SRC 250, SRC 500, SRV 300

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      QJ Motor slashed priceWith QJ Motor slashed price, SRC 250 is cheaper by Rs. 30,000 along with SRC 500 and SRV 300 both shedding up to Rs. 40,000 from the original price tagPrice revision for low-selling motorcycles seems to be a mantra that many 2W manufacturers are employing in India. We recently saw Honda use this strategy twice with CB300F and CB300R. Now, Chinese 2W Juggernaut, QJ Motor, is employing a similar strategy. The company slashed prices of select motorcycles under SRC and SRV lineup.QJ Motor Slashed Price By Up To Rs. 40KFor starters, QJ SRC 250 used to cost Rs. 2.1 lakh, SRC 500 Rs. 2.69 lakh and SRV 300 Rs. 3.49 lakh (all prices ex-sh). This is a welcome strategy as QJ Motors is a new brand for Indian market with less recall among enthusiasts, unlike QJ’s subsidiary Benelli. The price revision accounts for up to Rs. 40,000 (ex-sh).QJ Motors SRC 250SRC 250Where product positioning is concerned, SRC 250 is a retro classic motorcycle packing a twin-cylinder engine. Yes, a twin-cylinder engine. Up until now, it was priced at Rs. 2.1 lakh, which was already a steal. The new pricing is even more attractive at Rs. 1.79 lakh (ex-sh). Which is down by Rs. 31,000 (ex-sh).For around Rs. 1.8 lakh, one can’t even buy a Royal Enfield Classic 350’s base variant that only has a single-cylinder engine. SRC 250 has twice the number of engine components as that of a single-cylinder engine. This engine makes 17 bhp and 17 Nm, which are less than that of any Royal Enfield. Colours include Silver, Black and Red.QJ Motors SRC 500SRC 500Unlike SRC 250 which was a twinner, SRC 500 is a single-cylinder motorcycle that rivals the likes of Harley-Davidson X440, Royal Enfield Classic 350 and others. This 480cc single-cylinder engine packs 25.15 bhp and 36 Nm, mated to a 5-speed manual. This is purely an air-cooled engine too, unlike SRC 250 which had active air cooling with a large radiator.Where pricing is concerned, SRC 500 used to cost between Rs. 2.69 lakh and Rs. 2.79 lakh, depending upon colours opted. Now, QJ Motors has reduced prices to Rs. 2.39 lakh (ex-sh), which is down by Rs. 30,000 and Rs. 40,000 when compared to earlier prices. There doesn’t seem to be price disparity between colours anymore.QJ Motors SRV 300SRV 300This is QJ’s only V-Twin motorcycle on sale in India and is vastly similar to Keeway Benda V302C, which falls under QJ umbrella as well. SRV 300 used to cost between Rs. 3.49 lakh and Rs. 3.59 lakh (ex-sh), depending on colours. Just like SRC 500, there is no price difference with colours anymore.The new price is Rs. 3.19 lakh, which is Rs. 40,000 less than the pricier colour option of MY2023. Funny enough, Keeway Benda V302C, which is vastly the same bike, costs around 4.3 lakh (ex-sh). Extra cost for a belt-drive, negligible design changes and a slightly larger fuel tank don’t make any sense.QJ Motor SRV 300 is powered by a 296cc V-Twin motor that generates 29.88 bhp and 26 Nm, mated to a 6-speed transmission and chain drive. The weight is only 164 kg, which is commendable and SRV 300 is now the most affordable V-twin engine-equipped bike in India. Rs. 1,000 cheaper than Keeway K-Light 250V. More

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      Two Wheeler Sales Dec 2023 – Hero, Honda, TVS, Bajaj, Suzuki, Enfield

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      Bajaj Pulsar 220Even as two wheeler domestic sales saw positive growth on a YoY basis, its MoM performance saw significant declineTwo wheeler domestic sales of these 6 automakers improved by 16.17 percent to 11,63,617 units in December 2023. This was against 10,01,624 units sold in December 2022. However, on a MoM basis, every automaker on this list has suffered a de-growth by 24.97 percent down from 15,50,849 units sold in November 2023. This was a massive volume dip of 3,87,232 units.2W Domestic Sales December 2023Hero MotoCorp, the largest two-wheeler manufacturer in India, has posted YoY and MoM decline in sales in December 2023. Sales dipped by a minor 0.92 percent to 3,77,842 units in December 2023 from 3,81,365 units sold in December 2022 with a 32.47 percent share on this list. On the other hand, MoM sales dipped even more by 20.67 percent from 4,76,286 units sold in November 2023.Two Wheeler Sales Dec 2023Honda 2W sales grew by 22.71 percent on a YoY basis to 2,86,101 units in December 2023 from 2,33,151 units sold in December 2022 while MoM sales fell by 31.99 percent from 4,20,677 units sold in November 2023. Share percentage also fell from 27.13 percent held in November 2023 to 24.59 percent in the past month.With 1,58,370 units sold last month, Bajaj Auto Limited has reported a 26.14 percent YoY growth. This was against 1,25,553 units sold in December 2022. MoM sales suffered a 27.55 percent setback, down from 2,18,597 units sold in November 2023. Suzuki domestic sales surged 68.74 percent YoY but dipped 5.62 percent MoM to 69,025 units in December 2023. However, trailing the list was Royal Enfield which has seen both a YoY and MoM de-growth by 3.36 percent and 23.75 percent respectively to 57,291 units.Two Wheeler Exports Dec 20232W Exports December 2023Exports ended on a more positive note with a 5.69 percent YoY and 1.78 percent MoM growth to 2,63,393 units in December 2023. There had been 2,49,216 units and 2,58,790 units shipped in December 2022 and November 2023 respectively. In export markets, Bajaj Auto led the list with 1,24,631 units shipped last month, a 2.58 percent YoY growth but a 4.46 percent MoM decline.TVS Motor (75,076 units), Honda (31,022 units) and Hero MotoCorp (16,110 units) each posted both YoY and MoM growth in exports. Suzuki had 10,458 units exported last month with a 54.54 percent YoY decline as well as a 35.46 percent MoM de-growth. Royal Enfield exports dipped 28.94 percent YoY to 6,096 units but made up on a MoM basis by 19.20 percent over 5,114 units shipped in November 2023.2W Total Sales December 2023The 6 leading two wheeler makers in India saw combined sales (domestic + exports) of 14,27,010 units in December 2023, up 14.08 percent over 12,50,840 units sold in December 2022. MoM sales however, fell by 21.14 percent from 18,09,639 units sold in November 2023.Two Wheeler Total (Sales + Exports) Dec 2023Apart from Hero MotoCorp which has suffered a total YoY de-growth of 0.06 percent to 3,93,952 units and Royal Enfield, down 6.59 percent to 63,387 units in December 2023, every other 2W maker has posted a YoY growth. Honda (3,17,123 units), TVS (2,90,064 units). Bajaj Auto (2,83,001 units) and Suzuki (79,483 units) each saw sales growth by double digits. MoM sales on the other hand, had each of these two wheeler makers experience significantly lower numbers as most buyers had made their purchases during the festive season. More

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      Yamaha 9th Jan Event – New EV? Or Colours For Fascino, FZ, R3, MT-03?

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      Yamaha 9th Jan Event TeasedAmong many possibilities, Yamaha 9th Jan event could launch new colours for Fascino or Ray ZR, or R3 or MT-03 : Maybe a new EV launch tooYamaha recently announced a virtual launch event held on 9th of January, 2024. The event is expected to light up buyer’s world with “new hues”. The new colours could either be offered with company’s scooter range for MY2024, or motorcycles. Considering YamahaRacing hashtag was used in the post.Yamaha 9th Jan Event – What could it be?If we take a look at 2W market in India, scooters contribute to just as much volume as motorcycle does. Within scooter realm, Honda Activa is the one to beat. TVS has put up a spectacular show with Jupiter and is slowly inching towards 1 lakh per month mark. Suzuki often comes up in the top 10 scooters list too.If we take November 2023, Yamaha missed the cut-off to make it to top 10 scooter chart. Ray ZR 125 sold 11,402 units and Fascino sold 8,565 units. This is what we think Yamaha is working on. New colours to already stylish and retro scooter may bring a desired effect for intended buyers.The “new hues” could be with its sporty motorcycles too. Primary colours that we can see in the teaser are White, Purple and Blue. If we look at Yamaha’s portfolio internationally, there are Intensity White and a Phantom Purple on offer with R3 and others. These colours resemble the highlighted colours in Yamaha’s recent teaser.New colours for Fascino possibleYamaha R3 in India lacks both these colours and the MT-03 lacks Icon Blue, which is the third colour we can see in Yamaha’s teasers. Yamaha R3’s primary rivals are Aprilia RS457 which entered production recently and Kawasaki Ninja 400 and to some extent, KTM RC 390. The fiercest rival by far is RS457 which has more features, performance (on paper) and kit when compared to R3 and MT-03.More appealing colours could prove beneficial for Yamaha’s multi-cylinder offerings. If we take Fascino and Ray ZR, both lack White, Purple and Icon Blue shades as of writing this article. Also, Yamaha’s FZ lineup lacks these new teased colours too.Is Yamaha launching its first EV?We can’t deny the possibility of Yamaha launching its first EV on 9th January as well. The company has showcased multiple electric scooters for Indian dealers in an event. Considering TVS X costs Rs. 2.5 lakh (ex-sh), Yamaha could initially import e-scooters at that price point and later take CKD approach, based on demand.Yamaha R3 and MT-03 launchedIn terms of functionality, Yamaha is not likely to fettle with mechanicals with any of its products. Both Fascino and Ray ZR get the same 125cc Fi Hybrid air-cooled motor that generates 8.2 PS of max power and 10.3 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a V-belt automatic transmission. Users should be able to experience tangible difference in terms of ascent, standing and passing acceleration. More

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      Aprilia RS 457 Enters Production – Deliveries from March 2024

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      Aprilia RS457 Enters ProductionAprilia RS457 is priced competitively allowing it to contend effectively with the Kawasaki Ninja 400, KTM RC390 and Yamaha R3Following the launch of Aprilia RS 457 at the India Bike Week 2023 in December, first units of Aprilia RS 457 have started rolling out of Piaggio’s manufacturing plant at Baramati, near Pune. This marks the first-ever Aprilia motorcycle to be manufactured in India. Bookings had opened from 15th December 2023 while deliveries are set to commence from March 2024.Aprilia RS 457 – Design and FeaturesThe RS 457 has been designed and developed at the company’s headquarters in Noale, Italy, with developmental updates being offered by the Indian team. Earlier this month, the company also listed out a total of 28 official accessories for the RS 457 among which are a pillion seat cowl, adjustable levers, side panniers, tall windscreen and racing brake pads.Crash protectors, anti-theft and bi-directional quick-shifter are also a part of these accessories. Targeting new-gen bikers and biking aficionados, the new Aprilia RS457 is sporty in its design while performance is at its best, where rivals are concerned. Key features include LED headlamps with integrated turn signals and DRLs along with an LED tail lamp, a sculpted fuel tank, a tall windscreen, low seat and pulled-back handlebars.Its features also include an underbelly exhaust, short tail section, rear set foot pegs and sporty body graphics. It is also equipped with a 5-inch TFT colour display unit with optional Bluetooth connectivity and gets backlit handlebar controls, traction control and quick shifter with three riding modes.Aprilia RS457Dual-channel ABS with an anti-roll-over system is offered as standard. RS 457 is available in 3 colour options – Racing Stripes, Prismatic Dark, and Opalescent Light. Aprilia RS457 boasts a dual-beam aluminium frame. It has a dry weight of 159 kg and a wet weight of 175 kg. Seat height is 800mm, while fuel tank capacity is 13L. The RS 457 rides on 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels fitted with 110/70 front and 150/60 rear tyresEngine Specs, Braking and TransmissionAprilia RS457 draws its power via a new 457cc parallel twin cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC engine offering 47.58 hp power at 9,400 rpm and 43.5 Nm torque at 6,700 rpm mated to a 6-speed gearbox thereby making the RS 457 the most powerful offering in its segment.Braking is via 320mm floating ByBre 4 piston radial callipers in the front and 220mm disc ByBre 2 piston callipers at the rear with upside-down front forks, and a rear mono-shock. Pricing of the Aprilia RS457 is competitive at Rs 4.1 lakh (ex-sh).Thus allowing it to take on rivals such as the KTM RC 390 (Rs 3.81 lakh), Kawasaki Ninja 400 (Rs 5.24 lakh) and new Yamaha R3 (Rs 4.65 lakh), all prices ex-showroom. Aprilia RS 457 is arguably the best-looking motorcycle in its segment too and is the only Italian. A naked sibling is also in the making, as seen with recent spy shots. More