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    Hero Vida Sway Electric Scooter – Two Front Wheels, Independent Suspension

    Hero Vida Sway Electric Scooter. Image – PowerDriftWith the Vida Sway scooter concept, Hero is probably looking at 4-5 years down the line when there’s greater acceptability for such productsAt the Hero World 2024, India’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer Hero MotoCorp has unveiled a range of new products and concepts. The list includes Xoom 125, Xoom 160, Mavrick 440, Vida V1 Coupe, EV concepts Lynx and Acro, Concept 2.5R XTunt and Surge S32 convertible vehicle. Also featured was a new electric trike concept, a first for the company.Hero Vida Sway trike concept detailsHero Vida Sway scooter concept has largely the same design as the standard Vida V1 electric scooter. It has the same front fascia, headlamp cowl and compact windscreen, 7-inch TFT touch display, all-LED lights with projector headlamp and flat floorboard area. The difference comes with the two wheels at the front. Both of these get independent suspension to allow improved stability and control when negotiating corners. Both wheels have disc brakes that are likely to work in tandem.Hero Vida Sway Electric ScooterAt the rear, Hero Vida Sway trike concept has a dedicated cargo carrier. Only the rider seat is available. Even this format does not require any changes to the frame, as the standard Vida scooter comes with customizable seating options. The pillion seat can be easily detached to increase storage space. Or even the rear storage section can be removed to achieve a compact, sportier profile for the scooter.Hero Vida Sway trike concept specs, rangeWhile Hero has not revealed any technical details about the Sway trike concept, it is likely to be the same as the standard Vida scooter. Addition of a wheel and linked suspension and brake parts could increase the weight of the trike by around 10-15 kgs. Range will be impacted, but that may not be a concern for most users. Vida offers a real-world range of 110 km and loss of a few kilometres shouldn’t create any major hassles. Hero may even offer long-range variants of the Sway trike.[embedded content]Standard Vida electric scooter has two 1.97 kWh removable batteries. The electric motor generates 6 kW (8.15 PS) of peak power and 25 Nm of max torque. Three modes of Eco, Ride and Sport are available. There’s a Custom mode as well with 100+ combinations.Hero Vida Sway Electric Scooter – launch possibilitiesWhile trikes are quite popular across international markets, they are not very common in India. Pricing could be a factor, as trikes are usually more expensive than the standard two-wheelers. But trikes can be quite useful for folks who need the enhanced stability and convenience associated with a 3-wheeled vehicle. Trikes are also preferred by individuals who may not have the physical strength to handle a standard two-wheeler.Hero has not provided any timelines for the launch of the Vida Sway trike concept. But with its low-cost manufacturing prowess, Hero can certainly make the Vida Sway trike more accessible to a wider segment of users. The company can even launch ICE-based trikes, which could be even cheaper than the electric versions. More

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    2024 Bajaj Pulsar N150 Arrives In Showroom – New Features, Detailed Walkaround

    New Bajaj Pulsar N150As part of its evolutionary cycle, Bajaj is upgrading the Pulsar N150 with cosmetic touch-ups and new featuresFor long, Pulsar bikes have remained one of the favourites for enthusiasts. Bajaj has introduced updates and new bikes at regular intervals, in line with evolving market trends and rival offerings. Pulsar bikes to get newer versions this year include N150, N160, 220F, N250 and F250. Here we look at the all-new Pulsar N150 to understand what’s new and the bike’s improved capabilities.2024 Pulsar N150 – Improved stylingUpdated Pulsar N150 gets a refreshed front fascia that exudes a sportier and more aggressive persona. There’s an interplay of glossy and matte finish on the panels, which creates a vibrant profile for the bike. This dual-tone effect can be seen across the headlamp cowl, front fender, fuel tank and side panels. A new graphics theme has been used, combining the shades of red, white and grey. The wheels also get the sporty red and white treatment. Two colour options are on offer, Pearl Metallic White and Ebony Black.New Bajaj Pulsar N1502024 Pulsar N150 – New featuresA larger bi-functional LED projector headlamp not only looks dominant, but also offers unmatched illumination. User safety is improved with the precise beam of the projector headlamp. Flanking the headlamp are the LED pilot lamps, which lend a human touch to the bike. Turn signals, however, continue to be halogen units. The bike has a wide handlebar and sporty rear-view mirrors. The chunky fuel tank adds more character to the bike. It comes with 3D Pulsar badging in chrome finish, which complements the bike’s sporty profile.Lower section looks sorted with the use of an angular engine guard with sporty graphics. Side profile has also been decluttered with the use of an underbelly exhaust. This positioning also improves the bike’s centre of gravity, thereby ensuring better control and handling. The throaty exhaust note further enhances overall riding pleasure.[embedded content]New Pulsar N150 offers a comfortable, upright riding stance with the single disc variant. For a sportier stance, users can choose the dual-disc variant. With seat height of 790 mm, even shorter riders can unlock the full potential of the bike. The single piece seat has a narrow front section, which ensures improved ground reachability.New Bajaj Pulsar N1502024 Pulsar N150 – Tech upgradesBajaj has equipped the 2024 Pulsar N150 with a USB mobile charging port. It is located close to the tank flap. The bike also gets a new infinity console, featuring a digital screen and an analogue tachometer. Users can access a range of information including distance to empty readout and service reminders.2024 Pulsar N150 – Specs, performance2024 Pulsar N150 has 31 mm telescopic forks at front and a new monoshock suspension at rear. The latter is designed to ensure improved balance and handling. The bike gets single-channel ABS and wider tyres (90/90-17 F, 120/80-17 R). Powering the bike is a new, refined 149.68 cc engine that churns out 14.5 PS of max power and 13.5 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. Gear shift feel has been improved and a damper has been added to reduce noise and vibrations. More

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    Bajaj Sales Breakup December 2023 – Pulsar, Chetak, Boxer, Avenger

    Bajaj Pulsar 220While Bajaj sales breakup December 2023 charts showed 1,51,085 units sold in domestic market, exports stood at 1,08,062 unitsIndia’s leading 2W and 3W manufacturer, Bajaj Auto, has revealed their sales numbers for the month of December 2023 in both domestic and international business. The company ended 2023’s last month in style with 23.50% YoY growth in domestic market and a slight 4.91% YoY decline in exports.Bajaj Sales Breakup December 2023 – Domestic MarketLike always, Pulsar lineup tops Bajaj’s sales charts with 1,06,734 units sold. The sales growth was an impressive 42.75% YoY, when compared to 74,768 units sold in December 2022 with 31,966 units volume growth. Pulsars alone accounted for 70.65% of Bajaj’s total domestic sales. Next in line was Platina with 26,166 units clocked and faced 27.63% YoY decline losing 9,991 units in volume.Platina accounts for 17.32% of Bajaj’s domestic sales. 3rd place is taken by Chetak with 13,008 units and registered 277.7% YoY growth, gaining 9,564 units in volume over 3,444 units sold last year. Bajaj sold 3,524 CTs, 1,008 Avengers and 645 Dominars in India which saw 42.93%, 4.18% and 13.19% YoY dip respectively.Total domestic sales for December 2023 stood at 1,51,085 units with 23.50% YoY growth over 1,22,339 units sold in Dec 2022. This led to volume growth of 28,746 units YoY. Breaking these numbers down with respect to their displacement classes in domestic market, 125cc Pulsars steal the show for Bajaj accounting for 40.57% of Bajaj’s total domestic sales.Bajaj Sales Breakup December 2023 – DomesticBajaj sold 61,302 units of 125cc Pulsars that saw 50.55% YoY growth, gaining 20,583 units in volume. After that, we have Pulsars again, but in 150cc segment with 26,471 units sold and registering 10.72% YoY growth along with 17.52% of Bajaj’s total domestic sales. Then we have Platina with 26,166 units sold and accounts for 17.32% of Bajaj’s domestic sales.200cc and 160cc Pulsars account for 10.52% of company’s domestic numbers with 15,891 units sold and 60.6% YoY growth. Chetaks account for 8.61% of company’s domestic sales.Export Market (International Business)Boxer is Bajaj’s superstar in export markets with 52,996 units shipped last month accounting for 49.04% of Bajaj’s total exports. Boxer’s appeal seems to have dipped as there was 31.35% YoY decline. Pulsar’s popularity is rising with 26,431 units shipped, doubling numbers YoY at 112.01% growth and accounting for 24.46% of Bajaj’s total exports.Bajaj Sales Breakup December 2023 – ExportsCT and Discover range shipped 16,836 units and 7,392 units respectively with positive YoY growth. Dominar and Platina range shipped 2,344 and 1,861 units respectively and both saw YoY decline. Avenger saw 5.21% YoY growth, but sample size was small at 202 units. In total, there were 1,08,062 units shipped by Bajaj and witnessed 4.91% YoY decline, losing 5,578 units in volume.Breaking down Bajaj’s export numbers as per displacement classes, we get Boxer at the top, operating within 110cc and accounting for 33.06% of Bajaj’s total exports. Boxer also operates under 150cc and those motorcycles accounted for 10.96% share. Pulsar’s popularity has risen YoY and it now accounts for 10.49% of Bajaj’s total exports. More

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    Hero Xtreme 125R VS Rivals Compared – Raider 125, Pulsar NS125

    Hero Xtreme 125R Vs RivalsDespite its age, Pulsar NS125 holds up to Hero Xtreme 125R and TVS Raider 125 with its large and imposing looks and ergonomicsWithin the premium 125cc motorcycle segment, TVS used to have an absolute monopoly with Raider 125. Rightfully so as it is a tech-loaded motorcycle with a no-nonsense approach. Hero MotoCorp has entered the chat with its newly launched Xtreme 125R. So, a natural comparison was evident. That’s exactly what we are doing.Hero Xtreme 125R VS Rivals ComparedBut this comparison wouldn’t make sense without the OG premium 125cc motorcycle, which is Pulsar NS125. Before starting, we must acknowledge how well Pulsar NS125 has established relevancy even today with just a few sticker changes since inception. NS160 is like a sexy grandpa. Anil Kapoor, if we may.However, all eyes are currently on the newest kid on the block, Hero Xtreme 125R. It is easily the sportiest motorcycle in this comparo. The new design is edgy and has a muscular and characterful appeal that will appeal to younger riders. This way, Xtreme 125R offers more street presence than the other two.Where powertrains are concerned, all of them have a single-cylinder engine that displace close to 125cc. TVS Raider is the only one to get a 3V head and is oil-cooled with a clever implementation that doesn’t need an active cooling system. Pulsar NS125 has a 4V head too. Power and torque figures are almost the same and all contenders get a 5-speed gearbox.Hero Xtreme 125R Vs Rivals – ComparisonHowever, Bajaj Pulsar NS125 weighs 144 kg, which is 21 kg more than Raider’s 123 kg and 8 kg more than Xtreme’s 136 kg. It is the biggest of the bunch too and has tallest seat height along with biggest fuel tank at 12L. Fuel efficiency is highest with Raider at 67 km/l and Xtreme isn’t far off at 66 km/l. What is far off, is Pulsar NS125 with 56.4 km/l claimed efficiency.Hero did the right choice of going with fatter rubber with Xtreme 125R and this contributes to the bike’s overall macho appeal. For context, both Raider and NS125 get 80/100-17 front and 100/90-17 rear tyres, while Xtreme packs 90/90-17 front and 120/80-17 rear tyres. The concept of rear disc brakes and USD front forks hasn’t entered this price bracket in motorcycles yet.Raider proves to be most feature-loadedHero is the only one to offer single-channel ABS, which is a commendable move by Hero. All three motorcycles in this comparo get a rear mono-shock suspension setup. Hero offers LED lighting all around including turn indicators. Raider offers halogen indicators, while NS125 offers halogen headlights and indicators.Hero Xtreme 125RWhere features are concerned, only Pulsar lacks USB charging port and a fully digital instrument cluster. Speaking of, Hero offers an LCD unit that supports Bluetooth connectivity for call and SMS alerts. But TVS Raider 125 is in a league of its own as it offers a 5-inch TFT screen with Bluetooth features like navigation, call management, notifications, weather and sports updates, voice assist along with 99 connected features.ConclusionWhile a single variant of Pulsar NS125 costs the highest at Rs. 1,04,896 (ex-sh), pricing of Hero Xtreme 125R and TVR Raider 125 are pretty much neck and neck. Because I work in automotive media and get to attend media drives, one of my cousins asked me how Hero Xtreme 125R was, as he was planning to buy one.Hero Xtreme 125R Side ProfileAs Raider 125 is more bang for the buck, along with features to make riding in big cities convenient, I asked him to look at it once before buying. He replied that he wouldn’t consider Raider as it split opinions on headlight design. I think that sums up this comparison. The new design that Hero is bringing, is likely to leave its mark on buyers and seems to be hard to shake off, even with a much fatter brochure. More

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    Maruti Suzuki eVX Spotted With ADAS Module – Launch Nearing?

    Maruti Suzuki eVX spotted with ADAS moduleProduction-spec Maruti Suzuki eVX spotted testing, will rival ZS EV, upcoming Creta EV, Curvv EV, Elevate EV, Mahindra BE.05 and othersIndia’s leading carmaker, Maruti Suzuki, currently lacks an electric offering. This auto giant has a strategic partnership with Toyota and together, both the manufacturers are expected to launch their first electric vehicle for Indian markets. Maruti Suzuki eVX has been spotted testing multiple times and will launch before Toyota counterpart, based on Urban Crossover Concept.Maruti Suzuki eVX Spotted Testing AgainGlobal Suzuki has unveiled exteriors and interiors of eVX e-SUV in concept form. However, eVX has been spotted testing multiple times both overseas and here in India. Looking at the testing prototypes, we would wager that this product will probably take a lot more time than what was earlier predicted.But the testing is running in full swing, as observed with increasing frequency of test mule sightings. We can predict a launch timeline around the end of 2024. That said, the recent spy shots are some of the clearest, lending a perspective as to what we can expect from upcoming Maruti Suzuki eVX e-SUV.Considering that Suzuki has already revealed exteriors in concept form, we can compare how close the final production-spec model is going to be. Especially when compared to what was showcased as a concept.Maruti Suzuki eVX ConceptHow true is production model to conceptMaruti Suzuki eVX production model looks like it is toned down a lot from the concept version. We say this because the concept looked a lot more chiselled, edgy and flexed character lines that were quite complex to achieve in mass manufacturing. However, production model does retain design ethos where core silhouette is concerned.Front fascia ditches the sleek LED headlights in favour of a more conventional one. Concept has a closed-off grill, but production model features a grill that is a lot more open. Almost like a normal IC engine-equipped vehicle. Upper grill has a radar module too for ADAS suite. This could be the first Maruti vehicle to get ADAS. Maybe Grand Vitara may offer ADAS before eVX launch.Wheels are nothing fancy like the aero ones seen on concept model. A rear-view camera and flush door handles on concept make way for conventional ones with production-spec models. Rear door handle is on C pillar, which is interesting. Side profile almost carries design ethos from concept including an almost three-box design.Maruti Suzuki eVX dummy tail lightsTail lights of this particular test mule were dummy units for a temporary purpose. When launched, Maruti Suzuki eVX will feature connected tail lights that almost every car is offering these days. Other notable attributes include a shark-fin antenna, a subtle rear spoiler and a non-flashy bumper.Where powertrains are concerned, Maruti Suzuki eVX e-SUV will be based on born-electric YY8 skateboard, which is derived from Toyota’s 27PL platform. Battery options might include 45 kWh and 60 kWh units with single motor FWD and dual motor AWD layout options. Range can be around 550 km on a single charge.Maruti Suzuki eVX alloy wheel designSource More

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    Hero Surge can be an Electric Scooter or Rickshaw – 2 in 1 Convertible EV

    Hero Surge convertible EVBy offering both an electric rickshaw or an electric scooter in one EV, Hero Surge S32 claims to be the first class-shifting vehicleHero MotoCorp owned Surge startup has revealed their maiden S32. This is a modular vehicle, which is an amalgamation of an electric scooter and a 3W electric 3W vehicle to carry cargo or ferry passengers and support self-employed individuals. This is the first time in India a manufacturer has pursued such an idea and shows Hero’s relentless approach towards innovation.Hero Surge S32 – What is it?Ever seen Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight and wished to own a larger vehicle that spits out a 2W for convenience? Well, that concept has become a reality now. Except for the fact that it doesn’t cater to billionaire vigilantes. But caters to real-world self-employed warriors who intend to own a fully modular vehicle.Hero Surge convertible EVThus giving them an electric scooter or an electric 3W rickshaw in the same package. This way, a self-employed individual can get two vehicles for the cost of one. Surge calls it a “class-shifting vehicle”. Where users/buyers can elevate their earning potential and their overall lifestyle.Hero Surve EV – 2 in 1 convertible EVThe idea behind Surge S32 is that users/buyers can shift between classes while owning a single vehicle. After their daily endeavours and hardships, owners/buyers can now evolve into more comfortable and presentable individuals by taking the electric scooter out. Surge claims dismantling the scooter from the 3W setup should take 3 minutes.[embedded content]This way, Surge S32 is both their daily bread asset (3W electric vehicle) and their upmarket personal transportation means (electric scooter) in one modular product. Surge S32 promises conversion between 3W vehicle and scooter can happen on any terrain and there are adaptive controls and fail-safe operations to ensure a smooth transition.Hero Surve EV – 2 in 1 convertible EVSpecs and featuresAt first glance, Surge S32 looks like any 3W electric cargo vehicle or rickshaw. There is a front passenger cabin that has its own windscreen, headlights, turn indicators, windscreen wipers and everything. There are no doors, though, and there is a possibility that Surge will offer removable and zippered soft doors for weather protection.Hero MotoCorp Surge EVOn a press of a button, the front windshield section lifts vertically and the seat console on the inside opens and reveals an electric scooter. 3W vehicle’s cabin gets a spring-loaded double-stand like mechanism that is deployed down. Electric scooter’s rear suspension now rises to its intended position and it can now be pulled out of the 3W vehicle’s cabin. Scooter gets its own LED headlights and turn indicators too. Scooter is the only one to get speedo and switchgear and connects to 3W vehicle’s components, powertrain and battery with an electric interface that should be manually operated.Hero MotoCorp Surge EVBattery and powertrain are split between 3W vehicle and 2W scooter. Power is 10 kW (13.4 bhp) for 3W and 3 kW (4 bhp) for 2W. There is an 11 kWh battery for 3W and a sizeable 3.5 kWh battery for 2W. Top speed for 3W is 50 km/h and the scooter is slightly faster at 60 km/h top speed. Load carrying capacity for 3W is 500 kg, which is decent. Surge will offer 3 variants of cargo models and 1 variant to carry passengers (e-rickshaw). More

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    2024 Bajaj Pulsar N160 Launch Price Rs 1.33 L – First Look Walkaround

    2024 Bajaj Pulsar N160 LaunchUSD telescopic front forks was rumoured with 2024 Bajaj Pulsar N160 update like Pulsar NS160 offers, which is not the caseBajaj is going on the offensive with multiple new product launches in 2024. We’re talking about a swarm of new and updated Pulsar bikes including “biggest ever Pulsar yet” by the end of this FY. Among expected updates is Pulsar N160 which is getting new fully digital instrumentation. Ahead of launch, units have reached dealerships and the prices are leaked to be Rs. 1,32,627 (ex-sh).2024 Bajaj Pulsar N160 Reach DealershipsAhead of launch, 2024 Bajaj Pulsar N160 units have been reaching dealerships. Sangram AutoWorld YouTube channel demonstrates the same in a detailed walkaround video. In the video, we can see all the new updates that Bajaj is giving to Pulsar N160 motorcycle. The primary of which is a new fully digital instrument cluster.Previously, all Pulsar N range motorcycles (N150, N160 and N250) used to get a semi-digital instrument cluster. Where there was a large analogue tachometer, flanked by tell-tale lights on the left and an LCD screen on the right. This digital LCD screen showed a host of information like speed, gear position indicator, time, fuel efficiency, fuel level and the likes.This whole instrument cluster was housed in a bezel-less housing that looked clean, aesthetic and premium. Now, 2024 Bajaj Pulsar N160 gets an all new instrument cluster that is fully digital LCD unit that shows more information than its predecessor. The main addition is Bluetooth connectivity along with a “Mode” button on left switchgear to cycle through various functions.[embedded content]If you are expecting the full range of Bluetooth features as a few rivals from TVS and Hero offer, you would be slightly disappointed as there is no navigation feature. Yamaha offers Bluetooth connectivity without navigation with their FZ lineup as well. That said, call alerts, notification alerts, smartphone battery level indicators and network reception indicators are welcome features.No USD forks for Pulsar N160?Bajaj had never offered Bluetooth connectivity in their motorcycles or scooters. Fast forwarding to 2024, the competition has heated up extensively with OEMs offering up to 10.2-inch touchscreens on 2W vehicles. Bajaj had to up their game and 2024 Chetak was a step in the right direction with a TFT non-touchscreen.In motorcycle realm, 2024 Pulsar N160 is the first ever Bajaj to get Bluetooth connectivity. However, there is not a single change other than instrument cluster. There are still no USD telescopic front forks on offer as Pulsar NS160 offers. Maybe it is an optional extra not seen in this particular unit. Dual-channel ABS continues to provide a safety net with disc brakes at both ends.Pulsar N160 new instrumentationPulsar N160 new instrumentationEyebrow LED DRLs, bi-LED projector headlights, LED tail lights, USB mobile charging port (Type-A), split seat setup, underbelly exhaust, muscular styling continue to be 2024 Pulsar N160’s strengths. The 164.82cc single-cylinder engine is now compliant with E20 fuel as well. Price for this 2024 Bajaj Pulsar N160 is Rs. 1,32,627 (ex-sh). Launch should happen any time. More

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    2024 Royal Enfield Hunter 450 On The Prowl – New Details Revealed

    2024 Royal Enfield Hunter 450 SpiedRoyal Enfield’s new 450cc platform will spawn multiple new bikes, one of which will be Hunter 450Royal Enfield has benefitted immensely by introducing new products at regular intervals. With multiple options already available in 350cc and 650cc segments, the company will now step-up focus on its new 450cc platform. After Himalayan 450, the next bike in this range is expected to be Hunter 450. Launch is expected later this year, around the festive season.Hunter 450 – What to expect?With Hunter 450, Royal Enfield will be looking to replicate the success it has achieved with Hunter 350. With its compact design, a seamless neo-retro profile and agile performance, Hunter 350 had emerged as the second best selling Royal Enfield bike. It is currently ranked third, trailing Classic 350 and new Bullet 350. Hunter 450 will have the same USPs as highlighted with the smaller sibling. Enthusiasts looking for enhanced performance will probably choose the larger capacity Hunter 450.2024 Royal Enfield Hunter 450 SpiedIn terms of design, a number of features will be borrowed from the smaller Hunter 350. A test mule spotted recently was seen with round headlamp and rear-view mirrors, a circular instrument console, single-piece seat and engine bash plate. The fuel tank design is similar to that of Hunter 350. It is completely different from the one used with Himalayan 450. Rear lighting setup has been copied entirely from Himalayan 450. The bike has the tail lamps installed within the indicators. It helps declutter the rear view and reduce weight as well to some extent. Use of LEDs improves visibility and reliability.No USD forksUnlike Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 that has USD forks at front, Hunter 450 can be seen with standard telescopic forks at front. Fork gaiters have been used for a sporty look and feel and to improve the bike’s off-roading capabilities. Just like the smaller sibling, Hunter 450 has a comfortable, upright riding stance. The bucket rider seat should ensure a seat height of around 800 mm. This will allow improved control and handling and make the bike suitable for even shorter users.2024 Royal Enfield Hunter 450 SpiedThe circular instrument console appears similar to the one used with Himalayan 450. The 4-inch TFT dash complements the bike’s profile and displays a range of information using a simple and intuitive UI/UX. Users can also access Google-powered turn-by-turn navigation.Hunter 450 specs, performanceAt rear, Hunter 450 has a monoshock suspension. Braking setup comprises disc brakes at both ends. Dual-channel ABS is expected to be offered as standard. Powering the bike will be the 452cc liquid cooled, single cylinder Sherpa engine. It generates 40.02 PS of max power and 40 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. Royal Enfield could introduce some changes to the engine in line with the needs of a roadster.In the company’s lineup, Hunter 450 will be positioned below the Himalayan 450. Hunter 450 will be the most affordable bike in Royal Enfield’s 450cc portfolio. While a name hasn’t been finalized, ‘Hunter 450’ doesn’t sound bad at all.Source More