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      in Bike

      Abzo VS01 Launched – 5kWh Battery, 180Km Range, 8.5bhp, 190Nm

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      Abzo VS01 LaunchedAs per pricing, Abzo VS01 launched, costs between Rs. 1.8 lakh and Rs. 2.2 lakh – Offers a 5 kWh battery and 180 km rangeAhmedabad-based Abzo Motors launched its maiden electric motorcycle Abzo VS01 in Gujarat. This is a high-speed electric motorcycle that will need RTO registration and a driver’s license. The event was flagged off by renowned Bollywood star Suniel Shetty. There is no definitive price for Abzo VS01 and it costs between Rs. 1.8 lakh and Rs. 2.2 lakh respectively.Abzo VS01 Launched – Electric cruiser you’ve been wanting?The electric mobility startup is launching the vehicle in a phase-wise manner starting with Gujarat. Abzo seems to have partnered with a dealer network and promises nation-wide launch too. The company has a 17,069 sqm manufacturing plant at Kadi-Thol Road in Rangpurda, near Ahmedabad.Battery is 70 Ah unit with 72V, which roughly translates to 5 kWh in capacity. There is a hub motor at the rear wheel rated to deliver a peak power of 6.3 kW and a peak torque of 190 Nm. There is reverse mode along with a regen function as well. Abzo promises 180 km of range on a full charge (ARAI certified).Digital instrument cluster shows three riding modes on offer – Eco, Normal and Sports with top speeds of 45 km/h, 65 km/h and 85 km/h respectively. Componentry includes single disc brake setup at both ends with CBS, 17-inch alloy wheels with tubeless tyres. 700 mm seat height is typical of cruiser-style motorcycles and the ground clearance is 158 mm.Abzo VS01 profileBattery seems to be housed on what looks like a spine chassis, as seen in the demonstration video. The whole setup is suspended on RSU telescopic front forks and twin-shock absorbers at the back. Abzo promises 6 hours and 35 minutes charge time (under normal mode) and 3 hours and 20 minutes (under fast charging mode) for a full charge.5 kWh battery promises 180 km rangeHowever, Voltage and Ampere ratings to achieve these charging speeds weren’t mentioned. Speaking of not mentioned, Abzo didn’t mention whether VS01 adheres to fireproofing standards like AIS 156. Also, Abzo doesn’t quote a definitive price and mentions VS01 will cost between Rs. 1.8 lakh and Rs. 2.2 lakh.Abzo doesn’t mention whether this price is ex-showroom or on-road or including FAME II subsidies. The company promises to diversify their portfolio in the future with a “2nd Bike Category – Standard Bike”. Thought process behind VS01 seems to be of a comfortable cruiser with inspirations from large-capacity baggers and tourers.Abzo VS01 frameThis is evident in the way Abzo has designed VS01. We can see relaxed ergos with an upright rider stance. Footpegs are very front set and the rider seat looks like it is extremely accommodating. The neo-retro theme is reflected with round headlights and ORVMs. LED headlight has a cap that amplifies retro appeal even further.Words from manufacturerCommenting on the launch, Ms. Kanchi Patel, Co-founder of ABZO Motors, said, “We are extremely delighted to launch our first e-bike – VS 01. Electric bikes are the future of the automobile industry and Gujarat is gradually emerging as a hub for manufacturing electric vehicles including both two-wheelers and four-wheelers. Therefore, our home ground Gujarat was a natural choice as it provides us with a familiar environment, a wholesome ecosystem for automobile manufacturing, and valuable insights for manufacturing, testing, and launching our products.”Abzo VS01 chassis setup“ABZO E-Bikes will be launched in a phased manner across India through a dealer network. We aim at broadening our presence in Gujarat and diversifying our product line by adding more products including 2nd bike category – standard bike,” Ms Patel further went on to say. More

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      in Electric Cars

      Mahindra Electric SUVs Doing 200 Kmph Teaser – BE.05, XUV.e8, XUV.e9

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      Mahindra Electric SUVs Doing 200 KmphThe 200 km/h indicated top speed in Mahindra’s teaser could be from the aerodynamically slippery XUV.e9 with dual motor layoutMahindra has re-entered EV space with XUV400. However, the company is working on a slew of new EVs as part of their next-gen lineup. In a recent teaser from Mahindra, we can see BE.05, XUV.e8 and XUV.e9 hitting 200 km/h on Mahindra’s SUV Proving Track in Chennai.Mahindra Next-gen EVs Touch 200 Km/hFor starters, this is the first time we are seeing an XUV.e9 prototype in India. This vehicle is a coupe version of XUV.e8, which has been spotted multiple times. Also, XUV.e9 looks significantly sleeker and more attractive than XUV.e8, and looks like it has export potential for Mahindra.Mahindra Electric SUVs Doing 200 KmphMahindra seems to be benchmarking a Tesla Model Y for XUV.e9’s aerodynamics and coupe profile, thus optimising the platform for a better range. Apart from XUV.e9, we can see XUV.e8 and BE.05 as well. All three vehicles are demonstrating their prowess on Mahindra’s SUV Proving Track in Chennai.In the recent teaser, one of Mahindra’s next-gen EVs touched 200 km/h on the speedometer, which is an impressive speed envelope for an electric vehicle. However, this is a speedo-indicated reading and there might be a small deviation from actual speed. Also, Mahindra didn’t show which of these three vehicles hit this impressive speed.Next Gen Mahindra Electric SUVsMahindra has revealed that it will launch its next-gen EVs in a phase-wise manner. XUV.e8 will see the light of day first, sometime around December 2024. XUV.e9 will launch in April 2025, BE.05 in October 2025 and BE.07 in April 2026. Mahindra has partnered up with BYD to source the cells for battery packs, instead of Volkswagen.Mahindra Electric SUVs Doing 200 KmphAs revealed in Thar.e unveiling at Cape Town, South Africa, Mahindra will be sourcing the motors from Volkswagen. Front motor from VW is rated for 107 bhp and 135 Nm and seems to be common between all vehicles. Rear motor packs more performance and depending on the vehicle or trim level, Mahindra offers varied performance.These rear motors are a 228 bhp and 380 Nm motor sourced from Valeo and a 282 bhp and 535 Nm motor sourced from VW. The 200 km/h top speed seen in the teaser is likely to be a best-case-scenario. Extracted from the XUV.e9 prototype with 107 bhp and 135 Nm front motor and 282 bhp and 535 Nm rear motor. More

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      New KTM Duke 390 Launch Price Rs 3.1 L – Duke 250 Rs 2.39 L

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      New KTM Duke 250 LaunchThe new gen KTM Duke 390 and Duke 250 has been launched in India – Bookings now open at Rs 4,499KTM, the world’s leading premium motorcycle manufacturer, is set to make waves in the Indian motorcycle market with the launch of its eagerly anticipated Gen-3 Duke series. This new lineup includes the KTM 390 Duke and KTM 250 Duke, both of which are poised to redefine the premium sport motorcycle segment with their powerful performance, advanced technology, and distinctive design.New KTM Duke 390 and Duke 250 – A Revolutionary Leap ForwardThe Gen-3 KTM Duke series boasts a range of enhancements, starting with an all-new platform featuring a trellis frame with an aluminium sub-frame. Under the hood, these bikes feature the LC4c engine, delivering a knockout punch in terms of power and performance. The larger 399-cc engine powers the KTM 390 Duke, while the KTM 250 Duke is equipped with a nimble 250-cc engine. Both powerplants have been meticulously redesigned, optimizing cylinder heads and gearboxes to enhance overall performance and efficiency.2024 KTM Duke 390One of the standout features of the Gen-3 DUKEs is their impressive power-to-weight ratio, achieved through lightweight components such as a new 2-piece frame, wheels, and brake discs. This engineering prowess allows the Gen-3 DUKEs to set new benchmarks in terms of power delivery and agility.Setting Technological StandardsKTM has raised the bar in the sub-400cc NAKED segment by introducing several segment-first features in the Gen-3 DUKE range. These include Launch Control, Adjustable Suspension, Track Mode, MTC with Ride Modes, Cornering ABS, Quickshifter+, SuperMoto ABS, and a 5-inch Dashboard with Smartphone Bluetooth Connectivity. These innovations demonstrate KTM’s commitment to offering riders a cutting-edge and technologically advanced riding experience.Inspired by the SUPERDUKEThe Gen-3 DUKEs also draw inspiration from their larger sibling, the KTM SUPERDUKE, showcasing their unique identity with visual cues that set them apart. Both models feature a new metal fuel tank and high-quality surface finishes, enhancing their overall aesthetics. The new curved lightweight swingarm and off-set rear mono-shock add to the bikes’ distinctive design elements.Model-Specific FeaturesThe Gen-3 KTM 390 Duke offers an array of premium features, including WP APEX Adjustable suspension, MTC with ride modes, Cornering ABS, Launch Control, Quickshifter+, Ride-by-wire, and a 5-inch TFT display with smartphone connectivity. The bike also features an optional 820 mm seat height, a larger airbox, a Type-C charging port, and two striking color options: Electronic Orange Metallic and Atlantic Blue.On the other hand, the Gen-3 KTM 250 Duke comes equipped with Quickshifter+, Ride-by-wire, a slipper clutch, a 5-inch LCD display with smartphone connectivity, an optional 820 mm seat height, a larger airbox, a Type-C charging port, and two captivating colorways: Electronic Orange and Ceramic White.Booking InformationExcitement is building as motorcycle enthusiasts can now book their very own Gen-3 KTM Duke by visiting the KTM India website or any KTM showroom across the country. The Gen-3 KTM 390 Duke is priced at Rs. 3,10,520 (Ex-showroom Delhi), while the Gen-3 KTM 250 Duke is priced at Rs. 2,39,000 (Ex-showroom Delhi). Bookings are open with a reservation fee of just ?4,499.A Thrilling Future AwaitsSumeet Narang, President Probiking, expressed his excitement about the Gen-3 KTM Duke series, saying, “The KTM DUKE has defined India’s premium sport motorcycle category over the past decade. We are thrilled to introduce the Gen-3 KTM DUKEs – bikes that take performance, technology, and style to a whole new dimension. With its sharp design derived from its bigger sibling – the KTM SUPERDUKE, the DUKE is a head-turner with the highest power-to-weight ratio. Get READY TO RACE on the cutting edge of motorcycling.”Both the Gen-3 KTM 390 Duke and KTM 250 Duke are set to hit KTM stores across India in mid-September 2023, promising Indian riders an exhilarating and unmatched riding experience.New features in the Gen-3 KTM 390 DUKE:· WP APEX Adjustable suspension: 5-click rebound & compression adjustable front forks, 5-click rebound adjustable and 10-click preload adjustable mono-shock· MTC with ride modes; Cornering ABS & Supermoto ABS· Track Screen & Launch Control· Quickshifter+, Ride-by-wire, slipper Clutch· 5” TFT display with smartphone connectivity with turn-by-turn navigation· 800 mm seat height which optional 820 mm seat· Larger airbox· All-new steel trellis main frame with a pressure die-cast aluminium subframe· Right off-set rear mono shock· Type-C charging port· 2 colorways: Electronic Orange Metallic; Atlantic BlueNew features in the Gen-3 KTM 250 DUKE:· Quickshifter+, Ride-by-wire, slipper clutch· 5” LCD display with smartphone connectivity with turn-by-turn navigation· 800 mm seat height which optional 820 mm seat· Larger airbox· All-new steel trellis main frame with a pressure die-cast aluminium subframe· Right off-set rear mono shock· Type-C charging port· 2 colorways: Electronic Orange; Ceramic White More

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      in Motor News

      1972 Buick Riviera on Bring a Trailer Is One Bodacious Boattail

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      Far more charismatic than anything in Buick’s current all-SUV lineup, this swaggering coupe hails from an age when Buick cranked out hits.The iconic boattail styling still looks great half a century after this car hit the road, and brown on tan was never a more appropriate color combination. The Bring a Trailer online auction on this ’72 Riviera ends on Thursday, September 14.The current lineup from Buick consists of largely homogeneous crossovers, competent but mostly forgettable. Back in 1972, however, choosing to park a Buick Riviera in your driveway was making a fashion statement. And unlike most of the fashion statements made in the early 1970s, a brown-on-tan ’72 Buick Riviera is equally stylish decades later.Car and DriverFor proof, check outthis Buick Riviera up for auction on Bring a Trailer—which, like Car and Driver, is part of Hearst Autos. It’s a 1972 Buick Riviera, complete with effortless V-8 torque, a vinyl roof, and some rarely seen factory options like a power sunroof. It is maximum brown but in the best possible way. It’s the automotive equivalent of your grandfather’s leather jacket. Riviera started out as the hardtop version of Buicks like the Roadmaster, but in 1963 it entered production as a standalone personal luxury car. Early Rivs are stunning cars in their own right and have their own space-race 1960s charm. While filming Star Trek, Leonard Nimoy drove a Riviera, which elegantly contrasted with co-star William Shatner’s brawny Corvette daily driver.Bring a TrailerAs the Sixties wore on, the Riviera grew in size, losing much of its early elegance and distinction. With the third generation’s boattail styling that arrived for 1971, the Riviera recaptured the spotlight. The styling is a blend of Corvette and earlier Rivieras, which is fitting as it was overseen by GM’s VP of styling, Bill Mitchell. Mitchell’s designs for the 1963 Corvette and the 1963 Riviera were approved on the same day, Christmas Eve, 1961. Mitchell tasked designer Jerry Hirschberg with the third-generation Riviera’s design, and while Hirschberg himself thought the car a little too large, there’s no denying that a boattail Riviera is a knockout.Bring a TrailerThis example reportedly belonged to the current owner’s father and was comprehensively refurbished over a decade ago. Under that long hood is a 455-cubic-inch V-8, which was factory rated at 250 horsepower. That’s not a great deal of motivating force for a barge of this size, but once the Riviera builds up a head of steam, it’ll be every bit the roadmaster its ancestors were.Bring a TrailerBesides which, imagine the amount of attention this thing will get when parked or just cruising slowly. The accent lines on the sides emphasize the car’s broad hips, the slight V of the rear taillights is pure spacecraft. It would take very little reimagining to turn a Riviera of this generation into some kind of CGI Star Wars landspeeder, and the character that drove it could out-cool Lando Calrissian. Well heck, maybe he would just be Billy Dee Williams.Bring a TrailerBring a TrailerThe original window sticker shows a long options list that includes air conditioning, an AM-FM stereo, six-way power seats, and the aforementioned electric sunroof. A CD player has been added, and the 15-inch wheels wear modern Hankook Optima tires. The odometer reads 89,000 miles.Bill Mitchell told his staff he wanted the 1971 Buick Riviera to be a classic, and while some of those staff disagreed at the time it was released, he got what he wanted. Buick Yesterday and TodayContributing EditorBrendan McAleer is a freelance writer and photographer based in North Vancouver, B.C., Canada. He grew up splitting his knuckles on British automobiles, came of age in the golden era of Japanese sport-compact performance, and began writing about cars and people in 2008. His particular interest is the intersection between humanity and machinery, whether it is the racing career of Walter Cronkite or Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki’s half-century obsession with the Citroën 2CV. He has taught both of his young daughters how to shift a manual transmission and is grateful for the excuse they provide to be perpetually buying Hot Wheels. More

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      Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 Rendered Ahead Of Launch

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      Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 RenderedThe same 648cc parallel twin engine as other 650cc RE bikes is likely, generating 47 bhp of power and 52 Nm of torqueRoyal Enfield’s 650cc lineup has been a runaway success since their debut. The company has launched three different body styles based on this platform – Interceptor 650, Continental GT 650 and Super Meteor 650. One of the upcoming products based on this platform is Shotgun 650 and TripleLines Youtube channel has created a tasteful render of this vehicle.Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 Rendered – Prettiest Royal Enfield 650?The name Shotgun 650 is rumoured and is an adaptation of SG 650 concept. It was a radical new design that would take on the likes of other bobber-style motorcycles. Even though SG 650 was Bobber-style concept, production version test mules have been spotted with a pillion seat. TripleLine Youtube channel’s render follows the recent spy shots, featuring a pillion seat.For starters, Royal Enfield will use a similar platform on Shotgun 650 that it offers on Super Meteor 650. Main frame is slightly different from than Interceptor and Continental GT. It resembles the one used on Super Meteor 650 and the one featured on SG 650 concept.Latest test mules have revealed a long wheelbase. Probably longer than Super Meteor 650. The render takes a similar direction as well. We can see a substantial-looking headlight clamp, similar to the one seen on Scram 411. There is a round LED headlight along with round indicators and tail lights.[embedded content]TripleLine’s render has a bubble effect on the short windscreen, which adds a lot of character. There is a USD telescopic front suspension setup and twin shock absorber setup at the rear. Instrument cluster, switchgear, and other features will be shared with Super Meteor 650.Shares the same 648cc parallel-twin engineAs seen in the render and recent spy shots, Shotgun 650 features alloy wheels. These might be machined wheels with a dual-tone effect too. Tear-drop shape fuel tank, retro body panels and vintage charm captivate the audience. Engine bay is kept black, to add a sense of sportiness. Wheel setup could probably be 19” or 18” at the front and 17” at back.Riding posture on Shotgun 650 is less relaxed when compared to Super Meteor 650 and has a sporty edge to it. However, it doesn’t look as committed as Continental GT 650. This should enable a neutral riding posture. Dual exhausts have been kept in black finish too, as opposed to the chrome finish on Super Meteor 650.Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 Rendered – LED headlightsThe same 648cc parallel twin engine as the other three engines is highly likely. As seen with its 350cc lineup, Royal Enfield may tune this engine for Shotgun 650 slightly to establish a unique character. This engine develops 47 bhp of power and 52 Nm of torque, mated to a 6-speed gearbox. Spy shot frequency seems to have reduced and launch could happen in 2024. More

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      in Electric Cars

      Xiaoma Small Electric Car Launch Price 30k Yuan (Rs 3.47 Lakh)

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      FAW Xiaoma Small Electric CarCute-looking and environment-friendly micro EVs like FAW Bestune Xiaoma have potential to influence consumer preferencesWith plans to increase market share in micro-EV segment, First Auto Works (FAW) has introduced the Xiaoma small electric hatchback under Bestune brand. Pre-sales will commence from this month onwards. FAW Bestune Xiaoma will primarily rival Wuling Hongguang MINI EV. The latter is currently the top selling micro car in China. Bestune Xiaoma is available in the price range of 30,000-50,000 yuan (approx. Rs 3.47 lakh to Rs 5.78 lakh).FAW Bestune Xiaoma featuresFAW had unveiled the Bestune Xiaoma earlier this year in April at Shanghai Auto Show. While both hardtop and convertible versions were showcased, only the hardtop variant is currently going on sale. It is not certain if the convertible version will be introduced at a later date. But given the choice, a significant percentage of people could prefer the convertible variant. That’s apparently because it looks super cute in comparison to the hardtop variant.FAW Xiaoma Small Electric CarXiaoma has a boxy profile, with a dual-tone colour scheme that seems straight out of an animation movie. It has large square headlamps with rounded edges for a more captivating profile. Xiaoma uses aerodynamic wheels that could be useful in increasing range. At rear, the tail lamps and bumper reflect the theme that we see at front.Interiors are just as cute, featuring a flat dashboard and rotary control dials. There’s a touchscreen as well, which appears to be a 7-inch unit. The dashboard has an attractive dual-tone theme. Interiors have a smooth finish, as Xiaoma utilizes the same materials that are used to make mirrors.FAW Xiaoma Small Electric CarBestune Xiaoma specs, rangeBestune Xiaoma is underpinned by the FME platform. It includes both the EV and range extender dedicated chassis. Earlier, the ride-hailing EV named NAT was built on the same platform. The FME platform has two sub-platforms, A1 and A2. The A1 sub-platform caters to subcompacts and compacts that have a wheelbase of 2700-2850 mm. A2 is used for cars with wheelbase of 2700-3000 mm. The range is 800 km for EVs and more than 1,200 km for extenders. Both platforms support 800 V architecture.Powering the micro-EV is a single 20 kW electric motor. It is placed on the rear shaft. The battery used is a lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) unit, supplied by Gotion and REPT. More details about the powertrain are yet to be revealed. In terms of safety, Bestune Xiaoma gets a driver side airbag. Dimensionally, 3-door Bestune Xiaoma is 3,000 mm long, 1,510 mm wide and 1,630 mm tall. It has a wheelbase of 1,953 mm.FAW Xiaoma Small Electric CarWhile micro EVs are yet to make their mark in India, these cars are quite popular in China and South East Asian countries. They also seem to be gaining popularity across European markets. A micro car offers multiple benefits such as affordability, easy parking, ample range and zero emissions. More

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      How Aprilia RS 457 Fares Against Rivals – R3, Ninja 400, RC 390

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      Aprilia RS 457Aprilia RS 457 will be locally manufactured at Piaggio’s facility in Baramati and could pose an attractive price pointPremium fully-faired motorcycle sub 500cc motorcycle segment is on the boil with Yamaha R3 and Aprilia RS 457 incoming. However, we have KTM RC 390 and Kawasaki Ninja 400 operating in this space. Aprilia RS 457 was recently unveiled and it does look very promising. But Aprilia has not divulged an elaborate spec sheet. With what we know, how does it fare with its intended rivals?Aprilia RS 457 Vs rivalsRounding the displacement number in the name is a standard practice. KTM 390 range has a 373.2 cc engine. Just like other Aprilia motorcycles in the portfolio, RS 457 doesn’t get a rounded-off number in its name. It has a 457cc twin-cylinder DOHC 4V engine that generates 47 bhp of peak power.Aprilia hasn’t yet revealed torque numbers. But there is a probability of it sporting segment-leading torque figures as well. That said, Ninja 400 has 44.7 bhp and R3 has 41.42 bhp of peak power from their 399cc twin-cylinder engine and 321cc twin-cylinder engine respectively.Despite having a single-cylinder engine, KTM RC 390 makes 42.9 bhp of power and and 37 Nm of torque. Interestingly, KTM’s peak power and torque figures come in at lower RPMs than Ninja 400 and R3. All motorcycles pack a 6-speed gearbox and a slipper clutch. RC 390 packs a bi-directional quick-shifter and Aprilia RS 457 is likely to offer one as well.Aprilia RS457 Vs RivalsThe bigger engine on Aprilia RS 457 makes its presence known especially where weight is concerned. Aprilia quotes a wet weight of 175 kg, which is higher when compared to Yamaha R3 and Kawasaki Ninja 400. Interestingly, KTM RC 390 weighs 172 kg, despite having almost half of the engine components of its twin-cylinder rivals.Which motorcycle offers more tech?Aprilia hasn’t revealed dimensions and other quantitative attributes. All the motorcycles in this comparo feature single-disc setups at both ends. We would have liked Aprilia RS 457 to have twin disc setup. The last Italian offering in this space, Benelli 302R offered twin disc setup at the front, for that sinister big bike appeal.Dual-channel ABS will be standard at this price point. Aprilia RS 457 features a 41mm USD telescopic front fork setup and a rear mono-shock setup. Aprilia RS 457 sports a perimeter frame and the company flaunts it as part of the design and aesthetic. All LED lighting package is expected at this price point.However, Kawasaki doesn’t offer LED LED turn indicators even for Rs. 5.19 lakh (ex-sh). Also, Ninja 400 looks the oldest in this bunch as it still features a semi-digital instrument cluster. Aprilia RS 457 feel a lot more modern in this regard and packs a 5” TFT configurable screen. Yamaha offers fully-digital instrument cluster with R3.In terms of pricing, Aprilia could establish a lower price point as it will be locally produced at Piaggio’s facility at Baramati. So, a price point of around Rs. 4 lakh to Rs. 4.5 lakh should prove logical. Yamaha is likely to target a similar price bracket with R3 as well. The value quotient of KTM RC 390 still stands tall as the sticker price is Rs. 3.16 lakh (ex-sh). More

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      Hero Karizma XMR 210 Review – First Impressions on the Ride

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      Hero Karizma XMR 210 ReviewHero Karizma XMR 210 Review – First Ride. Unveiling the Design: Visual AestheticsKarizma, once a revered aspiration among enthusiasts, remarkably from a manufacturer primarily focused on simple commuter bikes, returns for another revival. Our first ride Hero Karizma XMR 210 Review touches upon what’s so new. So different. Over the course of two decades, there have been occasional efforts to rejuvenate its legacy.Hero Karizma XMR 210 ReviewThe latest iteration that has just been unveiled introduces such sweeping and innovative modifications that the only discernible link to the original Karizma lies in the labels adorning its fuel tank. This leaves us with the pressing question of whether the all-new XMR version can truly live up to the fervent expectations of loyal fans and, perhaps even more critically, if it possesses the potential to dethrone the firmly-established R15 from its current dominance in the market.Hero Karizma XMR 210 ReviewAt first glance, the bike exudes sporty elements, trims and edges. However, taking a broader view reveals it’s not solely a track machine. It prioritises comfort, pushing the boundaries of what a sports bike can provide. Before dismissing the Karizma XMR, consider a test ride. It might surprise you as the ideal blend of a stylish daily commuter and a weekend escape companion.Karizma XMR Review – Adjustable windscreen, USB Charging Port, SwitchgearsFeatures are truly aplenty. Karizma XMR’s adjustable windscreen, a pioneering addition. A conveniently placed button on the fairing’s right side allows riders to change the height from their seated position. It offers a two-step adjustment with a 30mm range. The stylish rearview mirrors not only enhance aesthetics but also provide an expansive field of view for added convenience and safety.Hero Karizma XMR 210 ReviewThe USB charging port is conveniently located, ensuring easy access. Switchgears offer a pleasing tactile feel, although with leather gloves, the indicator switches can be challenging to operate. Notably, a hazard light switch is present, a common feature in lower-tier bikes. However, its widespread use by uninformed riders on highways raises concerns. Many are unaware of the potential hazards, particularly during rainy nights, where its misuse can contribute to accidents. Education on proper usage remains imperative for road safety.Hero Karizma XMR 210 ReviewUser-Friendly Display: Karizma XMR’s Informative Instrument PanelThe colour display, both stylish and clear, presents a wealth of information. It boasts a user-friendly layout, easily toggled using the switchgear button. Among the easiest to read in its class, it offers impressive legibility. Furthermore, the instrument panel can be synced with a smartphone, unlocking functionalities such as turn-by-turn navigation assistance for added convenience on the road.Remarkably, the bike features a nifty addition—a self-activating LED projector headlight that utilises an ambient light sensor in low-light conditions. Turn indicators, elegantly designed, exude durability and do not appear to require fashionable replacements, a departure from the common inclination for customisation.Hero Karizma XMR 210 ReviewPower: Hero Karizma XMR 210’s Engine and PerformanceTurning our attention to the engine, our anticipation grew as we prepared to experience Hero MotoCorp’s inaugural venture into a liquid-cooled, DOHC engine, harmoniously paired with a Steel Trellis frame—a revelation. The 210 cc 4-valve single-cylinder engine impresses, delivering 25.15 hp peak power at 9,250 rpm and 20.4 Nm peak torque at 7,250 rpm. It seamlessly integrates with a 6-speed gearbox featuring a slip and assist clutch. Hero claims the XMR can sprint from 0 to 60 kmph in a mere 3.8 seconds, underscoring its spirited performance credentials.The engine emits a pleasing and enticing roar, enhancing its desirability, a trait amplified by its high-revving nature. While a hint of vibration emerges in the mid-range, it remains inconsequential, not impinging on the overall ride quality even during extended journeys. Hero impressively maintains a remarkably low level of harshness, consistent with their other offerings.Hero Karizma XMR 210 ReviewComfort Meets Commuting: Karizma XMR’s Suspension SystemEngine responsiveness caters well to riders seeking a more leisurely pace, as the power delivery exhibits a late onset. However, this characteristic doesn’t relegate the pursuit of triple-digit speeds to a distant aspiration. Karizma gracefully breaches the 100 kmph mark. Although we didn’t have the opportunity to validate this claim, Hero asserts that the bike can approach a commendable 150 kmph under favourable conditions, further elevating its performance credentials.The suspension system is pleasantly soft, aptly attuned to the enduringly uneven road conditions prevalent in our country. This choice ensures a comfortable and stable ride, accommodating the diverse needs of commuters navigating various terrains.During our brief ride in Delhi’s bustling city, the tyres demonstrated adequate grip, instilling confidence for urban manoeuvres.Hero Karizma XMR 210 ReviewOn the Road: Hero Karizma XMR 210 Ride, and HandlingHero introduces its inaugural dual-channel ABS system with this model, marking a significant leap in their safety offerings. The braking system aligns with the bike’s overall design philosophy, striking a balance between responsiveness and moderation. While it may not deliver the heart-pounding bite sought by enthusiasts, it exhibits a level of competence and reliability tailored to the average commuter’s requirements. The brakes efficiently translate the rider’s input through the lever, delivering controlled and predictable stopping power for enhanced safety on the road.With an ex-showroom price of Rs. 1.73 lakhs, Hero Karizma XMR strategically positions itself just Rs. 10,000 below the Yamaha R15. This shrewd move entails forgoing certain modern features, such as USD forks, commonly found in this segment. This calculated choice is astute, given the substantial market demand for a bike primarily intended for comfortable commuting and occasional touring, roles the R15 isn’t engineered for. Customers are likely to appreciate the distinctive features Hero has incorporated, which instil pride of ownership, prioritising them over elements like USD forks and similar attributes.Hero Karizma XMR 210 ReviewHero Karizma XMR 210 Review Final Verdict: 2023 Karizma XMR is Worth the Hype?For those well-acquainted with the previous Karizma, 2023 Karizma XMR might feel like a classic case of “old vs. new Baleno.” The name serves more as a nod to familiarity than an embodiment of the past model’s essence. 2023 Karizma XMR is a modern reinterpretation, prioritising comfort and commuter-friendly features over nostalgia for the old model’s sportier attributes. What is your take on the 2023 Karizma XMR? More