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      New Suzuki V-Strom 160 ADV Debuts – India Launch Possible?

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      New Suzuki V-Strom 160 ADVPresented as a versatile machine, Suzuki V-Strom 160 has capabilities across city streets and off-road environments as well
      Suzuki has expanded its V-Strom adventure tourer motorcycle range to include the V-Strom 160. The idea is to make the ADV experience accessible to a larger segment of users. While currently available only in Colombia, the bike could be introduced in India as well. Interestingly, the bike looks similar to Haojue DL160.
      Suzuki V-Strom 160 – Attractive design, colours
      While Suzuki V-Strom 160 has a lower displacement, it has the same sporty profile as the higher capacity V-Strom bikes. With its compact size, the Suzuki V-Strom 160 also seems to have a sharper profile in comparison to the likes of V-Strom 1050. In India, the V-Strom range includes the V-Strom SX 250 and the V-Strom 800DE. All V-Strom bikes have similar vibes, although each has some distinctive features for a unique look and feel.
      New Suzuki V-Strom 160 ADV
      Suzuki V-Strom 160 gets signature features associated with the V-Strom range. It includes the raised front fender, transparent windscreen, sculpted fuel tank and upswept exhaust. Other key highlights include a multifunction digital dashboard, KYB mono-shock rear suspension and USB charging port. The bike has 17-inch alloy wheels, with 100/80 front and 130/70 rear tubeless tyres. Dual-purpose tyres can unlock experiences across off-road tracks, although the usability will be primarily for on-road environments.
      Suzuki has also provided some striking colour options with the new V-Strom 160. Most eye-catching is the yellow-blue combo. It perfectly suits the bike’s sporty character. Another colour option is a white-blue combo. It is relatively sober, but comes across as quite elegant and confident.
      New Suzuki V-Strom 160 ADV
      Suzuki V-Strom 160 – Performance, specs
      Powering the new Suzuki V-Strom 160 is a 160cc engine. The single cylinder, SOHC, FI engine generates 14.75 hp and 14 Nm of torque. The bike is equipped with a 5-speed gearbox. The engine is configured to deliver a smooth performance across a wide variety of riding conditions. Ground clearance of 160 mm seems suitable for some mild off-roading needs.
      New Suzuki V-Strom 160 ADV
      Even smaller riders can ride the bike confidently, as it has a seat height of 795 mm. V-Strom 160 should be easy to handle and control with a weight of 148 kg. The bike is 2,025 mm long and has a wheelbase of 1,345 mm. Fuel tank capacity is 13 litres. At the front, the bike has standard telescopic forks. Braking setup comprises disc brakes at both ends, with dual-channel ABS as standard.
      Suzuki V-Strom 160 – India launch prospects
      As of now, Suzuki has introduced the V-Strom 160 in Colombia. The bike will be manufactured in Brazil. With the adventure tourer segment gaining popularity in India, the new V-Strom 160 could be introduced in India also. However, there’s no official details about the launch of V-Strom 160 in India.
      New Suzuki V-Strom 160 ADV is similar to Haojue DL160
      As of now, the entry-level dual-sport motorcycle segment is dominated by Hero Xpulse. Suzuki V-Strom 160 could be introduced at a lower price point. It can attract enthusiasts who want the ADV look and feel for their everyday commutes. More

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      Top 10 Motorcycle Sales Oct 2024 – Splendor, Pulsar, Raider, Xtreme, Classic, Unicorn

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      New Hero Xtreme 125RIt was Hero Splendor and Honda Shine that commanded this list along with the Hero HF Deluxe each of which have posted improved YoY and MoM sales
      Following our earlier reports on top 10 two wheeler sales and best-selling scooters in Oct 2024, we now assess the highest selling motorcycles in the same month. The festive season brought in improved sales across the two wheeler segment. Now, year-end purchases and hefty discounts could further spur up demand.
      Top 10 Motorcycle Sales Oct 2024 – Hero Splendor at No. 1
      Motorcycle sales in Oct 2024 improved to 10,96,816 units, up 13.85% from 9,63,419 units sold in Oct 2023. This was a volume increase of 1,33,397 units. MoM sales also ended positively with a 4.72% improvement over 10,47,356 units sold in Sep 2024. Hero Splendor was the highest selling motorcycle last month with 3,91,612 unit sales to command a 35.70% market share. This was a 25.91% YoY growth over 3,11,031 units sold in Oct 2023. MoM sales also showed off a 4.18% growth when compared to 3,75,886 units sold in Sep 2024.
      Top 10 Motorcycle Sales Oct 2024 – YoY Comparison
      Honda Shine has also long been a hot favorite in the motorcycle segment. Its sales stood at 1,96,288 units in the past month, a 19.99% YoY and 7.95% MoM increase to command a 17.90% market share. There had been 1,63,587 units and 1,81,835 units sold in Oct 2023 and Sep 2024 respectively.
      Hero HF Deluxe, a popular commuter motorcycle, regaled both for its fuel efficiency and affordability, featured at No. 3 on this list. Sales stood at 1,24,343 units, a 5.63% YoY growth from 1,17,719 units sold in Oct 2023. MoM sales also showed strong performance with a 9.24% rise over 1,13,827 units sold in Sep 2024.
      Top 10 Motorcycle Sales Oct 2024 – MoM Comparison
      Bajaj Pulsar and Platina Sales Decline
      Two highly popular models from the Bajaj Auto stables, Pulsar and Platina featured next on this list. However, the Pulsar has witnessed falling sales which fell to 1,11,834 units in Oct 2024. This was a 30.78% YoY and 19.65% MoM de-growth. There had been 1,61,572 units and 1,39,182 units sold in Oct 2023 and Sep 2024 respectively. Platina sales also fell by 17.24% YoY to 61,689 units over 74,539 units sold in Oct 2023. It however, received increased demand on a MoM basis by 23.94% from 49,774 units sold in Sep 2024. Platina currently holds a 5.62% market share.
      TVS Raider at No. 6 saw 51,153 unit sales last month, a 7.73% YoY growth from 47,483 units sold in Oct 2023 while MoM sales were up 18.21% from 43,274 units sold in Sep 2024. In October 2024, the company also introduced the TVS Raider 125 iGO variant enhancing the company presence in the premium 125cc bike segment.
      Also from TVS stables was the Apache with 50,097 unit sales last month, a 27.84% YoY and 20.31% MoM growth. There had been 39,187 units and 41,640 units sold in Oct 2023 and Sep 2024 respectively. The Apache currently occupies a 4.57% market share.
      Hero Xtreme 125R amassed sales of 39,735 units in the past month which related to a 5.90% MoM growth from 37,520 units sold in Sep 2024. It was followed by the Royal Enfield Classic 350 with 38,297 unit sales and a 20.60% YoY and 15.82% MoM growth. Honda Unicorn also posted improved sales last month at 31,768 units which was a massive 93.66% YoY growth over 16,404 units sold in the same month last year while MoM sales grew marginally by 1.32% over 31,353 units sold in Sep 2024. More

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      2025 Tata Sierra EV Spied Next To Safari Ahead Of Launch

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      Tata Sierra EV SpiedExterior detailing on the production model of Tata Sierra EV is largely the same as seen with the concept
      Tata Motors will be introducing the Sierra EV next year in both ICE and EV formats. In its concept form, the SUV was last showcased at the 2023 Auto Expo. Ahead of its launch, images of the production model have leaked online. Most of the styling bits seen with the concept version have been retained in the production model. Use of Tata’s new design language is evident, which can also be seen with other cars such as Curvv EV and upcoming Harrier EV.
      Sierra EV – What to expect?
      Sierra EV has a prominent closed-off grille section, top mounted full-width LED strip and a chiselled bonnet with distinctive lines. It has a strong presence when viewed from the side as well. Key highlights include flush door handles, door moulding, squarish wheel arches, thick body cladding, roof rails and sporty alloy wheels.
      Tata Sierra EV Spied
      Sierra EV’s charging port is located at the rear on the left side. One of the USPs of Sierra EV is that it retains the signature features of the original ICE Sierra. Key among them are the wide B pillars and the wraparound glass effect at the rear.
      With the use of a black plastic finisher, the rear windows merge seamlessly with the rear windshield. The same is applicable for the combo of the rear windows and the panoramic sunroof. However, that effect cannot be seen in these images, as only the side and front view has been captured.
      Tata Sierra EV Concept
      At the rear, Sierra EV has sharp tail lamps and a full-width LED strip. A prominent bumper section complements the SUV’s dominating profile. A tailgate mounted spare wheel, as seen with the original Sierra, would have added more dynamism. However, that’s not available. At least, not with this particular unit. The spare wheel for Sierra is likely to be in the lower section of the boot.
      Tata Sierra EV Concept
      Tata Sierra EV – Performance
      Tata has not revealed any specs about the electric powertrain to be used with Sierra EV. The SUV could be using a 45 kWh or 55 kWh battery pack. Range could be around 550 km. While a single motor setup will be standard, it remains to be seen if a dual-motor configuration with AWD is also available.
      During an investor’s meet, Tata recently announced that Sierra will be launched by the end of 2025. Before that, a preview could be provided around the 2025 festive season. Sierra will be available in both EV and ICE versions. As Tata is the market leader in the EV segment and wants to strengthen its position, Sierra EV is likely to be introduced first before the ICE model. A similar approach was utilized for Curvv. The Curvv EV was launched in August 2024, followed by the ICE variant in September 2024.
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      Yamaha Sales Breakup October 2024 – RayZR, FZ, R15, MT-15, Fascino

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      Yamaha R15Team Blue is expected to launch multiple new motorcycles and scooters in India across varied segments to expand portfolio and boost sales
      Within India’s 2W industry, Yamaha has made quite a name for itself. The company has a slew of premium motorcycles and scooters on sale in India. Yamaha’s Indian portfolio lacks commuter options in both scooters (110cc) and motorcycles (100cc and 125cc). Despite that, Yamaha posts healthy numbers, as reflected in October 2024 sales.
      Yamaha Sales Breakup October 2024
      For the month of October 2024, Yamaha posted a healthy 75,349 units sales, which is not a bad number considering the company lacks budget commuter options. When compared to 67,784 units sold in October 2023 and 66,615 units sold in September 2023, Yamaha achieved positive double-digit YoY and MoM growth of 11.16% and 13.11% respectively. Volume growth stood at 7,565 units YoY and 8,734 units MoM.
      Company’s best-seller is RayZR 125 scooter, which commands a 24.49% market share of Yamaha’s total sales. With 18,451 units sold, RayZR 125 registered 33.03% YoY growth over 13,870 units and 12.15% MoM growth over 16,452 units accounting for a volume gain of 4,581 units YoY and 1,999 units MoM.
      In 2nd place, we have Yamaha’s FZ streetfighter lineup with 17,874 units sold last month. FZ lineup accounts for 23.72% of Yamaha’s total sales. When compared to 18,000 units sold last year and 13,617 units sold a month before, FZ registered 0.70% YoY decline, losing 126 units in volume and 31.26% MoM growth, gaining 4,257 units in volume.
      Yamaha Sales Breakup October 2024 – YoY
      The premium street fighter, MT-15 sold 13,405 units with an impressive 53.45% YoY growth, gaining 4,669 units in volume and 9.11% MoM growth gaining 1,119 units in volume. MT-15’s fully-faired sibling, YZF-R15, sold 11,449 units and saw a surprising 11.69% YoY decline and a 7.87% MoM growth. MT-15 and R15 accounted for 17.79% and 15.19% of Yamaha’s total sales respectively.
      In 5th position, we have Yamaha’s most affordable scooter, Fascino 125. It is also a retro-styled scooter with a 125cc scooter and weighs under 100 kg in weight. With 11,329 units sold last month, Fascino 125 was the only one on this list to register a sales decline in both YoY and MoM analysis with 2.42% YoY and 1.41% MoM decline.
      R3 and MT-03 sold 15 units combined
      Yamaha’s premium 155cc scooter, Aerox 155, sold a total of 2,826 units and fell into the green completely as it registered 8.53% YoY and a staggering 31.93% MoM growth. This is the only sporty liquid-cooled scooter on sale in India for the mainstream market and has covered a unique niche.
      Yamaha Sales Breakup October 2024 – MoM
      Yamaha’s multi-cylinder portfolio was filled with the launch of R3 and MT-03. These motorcycles are launched with premium pricing and has resulted in slower sales. Together, R3 and MT-03 sold 15 units and there was a 15.38% MoM growth. There will be more multi-cylinder motorcycles from Yamaha in the future. More

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      Honda GB500 Trademarked – Is This India-Made Royal Enfield 650 Rival?

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      Honda CB500 1971 : Image For Reference OnlyWith the middleweight motorcycle segment gaining higher volumes, Honda can introduce the GB500 in India as the CB500
      At the 2024 EICMA, Honda introduced the GB350 S for European markets. Across international markets, Honda uses the GB350 name in comparison to CB350 in India. New reports indicate that Honda is also working on GB500. Which could spawn a CB500 version for Indian market to rival the likes of Royal Enfield’s ever-expanding 650cc portfolio.
      Honda GB500 registered in Europe, USA
      In a development that reveals Honda’s potential plans to launch GB500, a trademark has been filed for GB500 under motorcycle and motorcycle parts category. In the USA, the GB500 name has been trademarked with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on 12th November.
      Similarly, the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) registered the name on 14th November. There’s a strong chance of GB500 making it to production and keep a check on Royal Enfield’s ever-popular and ever-expanding 650cc portfolio. If priced competitively and achieved manufacturing efficiency from their Indian facility, Honda can have a compelling twinner on their hands.
      What engine could the Honda GB500 be using?
      Smaller capacity Honda GB350 utilizes a single-cylinder, air-cooled engine. The larger GB500 won’t be adding any significant value if it too gets a single-cylinder setup. With a single-cylinder engine, the GB500 could deliver around 30 hp. In comparison, the GB350 produces 20 hp.
      Honda CB350 Classic Japan-Spec (GB350) – Puko Blue
      A gain of just around 10 hp may not be enough to motivate enthusiasts to upgrade to the larger capacity GB500. Due to these factors, it is possible that Honda GB500 could be getting a liquid-cooled engine, capable of generating upwards of 45 hp. Honda can either use the existing 500cc twin-cylinder engine or choose a newly developed engine for GB500.
      Existing Honda bikes such as the CMX 500 Rebel and CB500 models utilize a 471 cc, water-cooled, inline two-cylinder engine. It generates 47 hp at 8,500 rpm. From a cost perspective, using the existing 500cc twin engine seems more suitable. Models spawning from this platform might take CB500 name in markets like India.
      Specs, features and hardware
      Honda GB500 will be designed to comply with the A2 motorcycle licensing system in Europe. The bike might use a tubular steel frame, integrated with telescopic forks at front and dual rear shock absorbers. The bike will have disc brakes at both ends and dual-channel ABS will be offered as standard.
      Honda GB350 C for Japan is India-spec CB350
      Overall profile will be quite similar to the smaller capacity GB350 (CB350 in India). Some of the key highlights include circular headlamp and rear-view mirrors, curvy fuel tank and a single-piece seat. Similar to the GB350, the GB500 will have a comfortable riding stance.
      Honda GB500 launch date, pricing
      While Honda has registered GB500 in multiple markets, a launch is not happening anytime soon. A reasonable guess will be 2026. In terms of cost, Honda could choose a competitive pricing strategy for GB500. Something similar can already be seen with GB350 which is available in Europe at 4,490 euros (Rs 3.99 lakh).
      In India, the CB350 is available at a starting price of Rs 2 lakh (Ex-sh). Royal Enfield’s 650cc portfolio, on the other hand, starts from Rs 3.02 lakh (Ex-sh). More

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      Bajaj And Hero 400cc Bike Sales October 2024 – Speed 400, X440, Pulsar 400, 390 Lineup

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      Harley-Davidson X440Despite being more affordable than 390 Duke and having a desirable Scrambler appeal, Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 struggles in sales
      Royal Enfield has been the de facto motorcycle manufacturer in the 350cc, 450cc and 650cc segments. In the 450cc segment, Royal Enfield has Himalayan 450 and Guerrilla 450. Royal Enfield posted highest-ever festive sales last month and 450cc portfolio has a notable contribution.
      Rivalling this juggernaut are Bajaj with its Pulsar and Dominar lineups, Bajaj-KTM-Husqvarna with their 390 based portfolio, Bajaj-Triumph with their 400 portfolio, Hero MotoCorp with their Mavrick 440 and Hero-Harley with X440. Let’s take a look at the sales numbers and see how these OEMs fared.
      Bajaj And Hero 400cc Bike Sales
      Combined sales numbers from Bajaj and its partnerships and Hero and its partnerships accounted for 8,775 units in October 2024. When compared to 8,171 units sold in Octoboer 2023 and 8,670 units sold in September 2024, there was a 7.39% YoY growth and 1.21% MoM growth respectively. Volume growth stood at 604 units YoY and 105 units MoM.
      Triumph’s 400 lineup consists of Speed 400, Scrambler 400X and the newly launched Speed T4. Triumph’s 400 lineup sold 4,005 units last month and accounted for 45.65% of this table. There was a YoY growth of 17.52% and a MoM growth of 17.41% with a volume growth of 597 units YoY and 594 units MoM.
      Bajaj and Hero 400cc Bike Sales October 2024 – YoY
      In 2nd place, we have Harley-Davidson X440 with 2,200 units sold last month. When compared to 2,495 units sold last year and 1,442 units sold a month before, Harley-Davidson X440 registered an 11.82% You decline and a 52.57% MoM growth. In contrast, Hero MotoCorp’s Mavrick 440 sold under 200 units.
      The ‘Biggest Ever Pulsar’, Pulsar NS400Z, managed to sell 1,322 units and saw sales drop by 37.7% MoM. KTM’s 390 lineup has been witnessing a steady decline. Sales might prosper once KTM transitions the entire lineup to the newer 399cc powertrain. With 513 units sold last month, KTM witnessed a 67.37% YoY and a 26.19% MoM decline.
      Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 Sold 46 Units
      Now that Pulsar NS400Z has been launched at a steal price, Dominar’s sales seem to have taken a hit. With 493 Dominar 400 sold last month, Bajaj witnessed a 29.17% YoY and 37.91% MoM decline when compared to the 696 units sold last year and 794 units sold a month before.
      Bajaj and Hero 400cc Bike Sales October 2024 – MoM
      Unlike its Harley counterpart, Hero Mavrick 440 could only manage to sell 196 units last month. Sales dropped by 37.91% MoM, losing 301 units in volume. Lastly, we have the Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 at the bottom with 46 units sold. Sales grew by 24.32% MoM from 32 units sold in September 2024. Despite the favourable Scrambler design, newer 399cc powertrain and lower price tag, Svartpilen 401 hasn’t taken off in sales. More

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      Honda Activa Electric Battery Swapping Station Installed In Bengaluru – New Teaser

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      Honda Activa Electric Battery Swapping StationHonda Activa Electric Teaser Reveals Charging Socket Design – Battery Swapping Station installed in a petrol station
      In its latest teaser, Honda has unveiled another key detail about the upcoming Activa Electric scooter – the charging socket design. Alongside this, a spy shot from Bangalore reveals the first glimpse of Honda’s battery-swapping infrastructure in India. These developments build anticipation for the Activa Electric, which is set to launch on November 27, 2024, in Bangalore.
      Convenient Charging Socket Placement
      The Activa Electric teaser highlights a charging socket located on the scooter’s side. Protected by a secure flap to guard against dust and water, the socket is simple and user-friendly, making at-home or public charging convenient for riders. This feature underscores Honda’s commitment to providing practical solutions for urban commuters.
      Honda Activa Electric Charging Socket
      Battery Swapping Stations Spotted in Bangalore
      In a significant move towards supporting its electric vehicle ecosystem, Honda has begun installing battery-swapping stations in Bangalore. One of these stations has been spotted at a petrol bunk near Hulimavu. The station closely resembles the ones Honda uses in international markets and appears compatible with the removable batteries teased for the Activa Electric. Interestingly, the batteries also resemble those used in the Honda EM1 electric scooter.
      These swapping stations will allow Activa Electric riders to deposit a depleted battery and instantly replace it with a fully charged one. This drastically reduces downtime and eliminates the need for lengthy charging sessions, making it an ideal solution for urban commuters and high-mileage riders.
      Honda Electric Scooter Battery Swapping Station
      Dual Charging Options for Maximum Convenience
      With the Activa Electric supporting both – Onboard Charging via its charging socket for home or public station use andBattery Swapping via Honda’s newly installed stations. This dual approach gives Honda a competitive edge over rivals like the Ola S1, TVS iQube, and Bajaj Chetak, which rely solely on fixed battery setups.
      Strategic Expansion of Battery Swapping Network
      Honda’s battery-swapping stations are part of its broader strategy, supported by its subsidiary, Honda Power Pack Energy India Private Limited. These stations will likely be installed at key locations in Bangalore and other cities in the future. By leveraging its experience in international markets, Honda aims to create a seamless and efficient battery-swapping ecosystem in India.
      The Activa Electric’s official unveiling will take place on November 27, 2024, in Bangalore, where Honda’s battery-swapping initiative is already taking shape. This event will mark Honda’s entry into India’s electric scooter segment, combining modern technology with the trusted Activa brand legacy. More

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      Ola New Electric Scooter Teased With Removable Battery – Launch Soon

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      Ola New Electric Scooter TeasedTop speed on this particular model might be low, as Ola’s electric 2W CV with removable battery is aimed at last-mile mobility sector
      India’s electric 2W market has been tilted towards eScooters that offer flexibility of being unisex in their approach. However, last-mile mobility sector is also a major market for electric 2W manufacturers. Looking at an opportunity, India’s leading electric 2W vehicle manufacturer, Ola Electric, is coming up with their maiden CV.
      Ola New Electric Scooter
      Earlier this year, patents of Ola’s swappable battery module design patent leaked on the interet, suggesting the company is investing into swappable battery tech. Later on, design patents of Ola’s maiden commercial 2W EV leaked too, showing where that swappable battery could debut. Now, Ola has officially teased their maiden CV and is set to launch soon.
      After conquering the 2W electric PV segment, Ola Electric is making massive advances into 2W electric CVs as well. After a couple of leaked patent designs, the company has teased their first-ever commercial vehicle. From what we can see in these teasers, Ola is aiming at last-mile mobility segment.
      The teasers resonate with what we saw with leaked design patents of this upcoming scooter. Overall appearance is that of a slightly premium commercial vehicle, especially when compared to what is already available in this segment. Design is fairly minimal and gets a utilitarian approach.
      Ola New Electric Scooter Teased
      We can see what looks like a sturdy frame finished in a Red shade. There are protective side guards protruding from this frame. There appears to be a flat floorboard, allowing users to carry payload here. Rider footpegs are simple units seen on either sides. Pillion footpegs seem to be absent as this scooter looks like a single-seater.
      Where a pillion seat should have been, there is a luggage area, used to increase payload carrying capacity. This scooter has minimal bodywork too, to keep costs down. Features like digital instrument cluster, LED headlights are expected.
      Swappable Battery!
      The main takeaway from these teasers is that Ola Electric has confirmed that this upcoming electric 2W CV will have their maiden swappable battery pack. Or, removable battery, if you may. This could allow Ola to offer battery as a rental service (BaaS), thus getting the price point low and competitive. The exact specifications of this battery pack is not yet known.
      Ola New Electric Scooter Teased
      From the looks of it, this upcoming Ola new electric scooter has provision for one swappable battery pack and some storage beside it. There may be a dual-battery variant in the future. There is a hub motor in rear wheel for propulsion and twin shock absorbers for load carrying capacity. Slowly, Ola could implement removable battery tech in their PVs too. More