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    Yamaha MT15 Likely To Get New Updates – Similar To R15 V4

    International-spec Yamaha MT15. Image for reference
    Upon its launch, the new generation Yamaha MT15 could be priced at a premium of Rs 10,000 over the current model
    Yamaha updated its entry-level supersport bike R15 earlier last month which has generally received positive reviews from all corners. The bike received plenty of updates on the skin and some crucial ones underneath as well. Now, the Japanese bikemaker is planning to carry forward these updates on the naked version of R15.
    Yamaha could soon launch an updated MT15 which will carry a similar range of updates as seen in the recently launched R15 V4. Underneath their skin, both R15 and MT15 are essentially the same bikes with stark differences in their top hat and riding ergonomics.
    Updated Design Expected
    In its current form, MT15 gets a transformer-style front look with air scoops, a sculpted fuel tank with extensions, a single-pod LED projector headlamp with twin LED DRLs at front, a wide handlebar and a petite tail section. There could be slight variations in terms of styling in the upcoming model but exact details have not yet surfaced.
    MT15 is also available in a special MotoGP Monster Energy Edition which is the range-topping variant of the motorcycle. It features cosmetic enhancements which are inspired by Yamaha’s MotoGP motorcycle along with Monster Energy branding which is the principal sponsor of Team Blue at the premiere championship. The special edition model wears a black paint scheme along with Monster Energy branding on the fuel tank and logo on tank extensions.
    Yamaha MT15 Monster Edition. Image – MRD Vlogs
    Yamaha MT15 R15 V4 Based – Hardware & Features
    The major and more crucial updates will be underneath its skin which would involve an updated powertrain and hardware setup. The most notable inclusion will be upside-down front forks which will offer sportier credentials to the new MT-15.
    The golden-coloured front forks will also add to the visual appeal of the motorcycle in addition to more confidence to riders. Rear suspension duties will be handled by a mono-shock. Anchorage will be taken care of by disc brakes at both ends complemented by dual-channel ABS as standard.
    Yamaha is also likely to add a couple of features to the updated MT-15 such as a quick-shifter, traction control and a revised fully digital LCD instrument console compatible with Yamaha’s Y-Connect connectivity feature and Bluetooth.
    Powering MT-15 will be the same engine as its fully clothed sibling R15 V4. The 155cc, single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine is paired with a six-speed gearbox. The VVA motor kicks out 18.2 bhp and 14.1 Nm of peak torque. Yamaha is yet to confirm the launch timeline of updated MT15. It could be planned for launch later this year or sometime next year. More

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    BMW 350cc Scooter India Launch Price Rs 9.95 Lakh

    BMW 350cc Scooter for IndiaWith C400GT, BMW will be looking to gain first-mover advantage in mid-displacement maxi-scooter segment
    Initial response for C400GT has been pretty decent, as it has already received around 100 pre-bookings. C400GT is offered in several international markets and it had received an update earlier this year. It is the updated model that has now been launched in India, at a starting price of Rs 9.95 lakhs, ex-sh.
    C400GT will be the first proper maxi scooter in India. As of now, products like Suzuki Burgman Street, Aprilia SXR 160 and recently launched Yamaha Aerox 155 can best be described as ‘maxi-styled’ scooters.
    BMW C400GT design and features
    C400GT is specially designed for an urban environment. It is also capable of handling journeys that stretch beyond city limits. Designed for optimal comfort and equipped with hi-tech ride-by-wire technology, the scooter ensures a hassle-free experience.
    With its beefy proportions, C400GT will be hard to miss on the streets. Some key features include full LED headlights, large windshield, step-up seat and upswept exhaust. In international markets, the bike is offered in three colour options – Style Triple Black, Alpine White and Callisto Gray Metallic.
    BMW 350cc Scooter for India – Official Specs
    Other key features include a 6.5 inch TFT display that is equipped with BMW Motorrad connectivity suite. It allows users to pair their smartphones to access a range of features on the go. Users can listen to music, make phone calls and get navigational directions to their destination. These functions can be accessed via the multi-controller provided on the handlebar.
    A USB charging socket has been provided in the front storage compartment. The scooter has ample storage space under the seat with inbuilt illumination. It is possible that the list of features, as offered in international markets, could be slightly different in India.
    BMW C400GT engine and specs
    BMW C400GT gets its power from a 350cc, water cooled, single cylinder motor. It is capable of generating 34 hp of max power at 7,500 rpm and 35 Nm of peak torque at 5,750 rpm. It is mated to a CVT gearbox. The scooter is Euro V / BS6 compliant and utilizes a closed-loop three-way catalytic converter. Rated max speed of BMW C400GT is 86 mph (approx. 138 kmph).
    Mr. Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India on the all-new BMW C 400 GT
    C400GT has steel tube construction with aluminium die cast frame. Suspension system comprises telescopic fork at front and double swingarm linked spring struts suspension at rear. The scooter has disc brakes at both ends and BMW Motorrad ABS is offered as standard.
    BMW C400GT will not have a direct rival in India initially, it could face some competition in the future. Products like Burgman 400 and Honda Forza 350 could be launched in India at a later date. However, there is no official word about these as of now.
    High pricing is a key factor that is likely to limit sales of maxi-scooters in the Indian market. Consumer preference for motorcycles and local traffic and ride conditions are other factors that can influence sale of larger capacity maxi-scooters in the country. More

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    Hero Maestro Edge 125 Gets Hero Connect App Features – New TVC

    Hero Maestro Edge 125cc with Hero ConnectHero Connect will be a good addition at a time when there’s growing preference for connectivity features
    Once positioned as a premium offering, connectivity features are now gravitating towards becoming a necessity. These make every day commutes a lot more convenient and hassle-free. They also enhance vehicle safety as well as safety of users. Connectivity features were first introduced in the country by Hyundai. These are now available with several two-wheelers as well.
    In line with evolving customer expectations, India’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer Hero MotoCorp had launched its connectivity platform in February last year. Named Hero Connect, the platform was initially available only at select dealerships in select cities.
    Priced at Rs 4,999, Hero Connect is currently available as an option with Xpulse 200, Xtreme 160R, Destini 125, Pleasure+ and Pleasure+ Platinum. There are plans to make the platform available for more Hero products in the future. More dealerships and cities will be covered based on market demand.
    Hero Maestro Edge 125 Connect
    Maestro Edge 125 was recently spotted at a dealer event with other products such as Xtreme 160R Stealth Edition, Xpulse 200 4V with optional Rally Kit and Pleasure Plus Xtec. The latter three are already equipped with Hero Connect system.
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    Maestro Edge 125 was spotted in a new Prismatic Yellow colour. Today, Hero Connect platform has been introduced for Maestro Edge 125 as well. Above is the new Hero Maestro Edge 125 TVC featuring Ranbir Kapoor. It will allow the scooter to compete better with rivals such as Honda Activa 125, Suzuki Access, Yamaha Fascino and recently launched TVS Jupiter 125.
    At the core of Hero Connect platform is an embedded e-SIM and telematics hardware. It works to communicate with cellular networks in order to create a link between the device and mobile app. Hero Connect features are broadly classified into three categories – rider safety, vehicle safety and driving report. Vehicle safety has some of the most useful features such as live tracking, tow away alert, geo fencing, and parking spot locator.
    In terms of user safety, Hero Connect offers the topple alert feature. This was recently introduced with Xpulse 200. In case the vehicle topples, a notification is automatically sent to emergency contacts saved by the user. This feature can be a life saver in critical situations.
    Hero Maestro Edge 125 With Hero Connect
    It is possible that Hero may add more rider safety features in future versions of its connectivity platform. Other features available with Hero Connect include trip analysis, driving score and speed alert.
    No other changes
    Apart from Hero Connect, there are not other updates for Maestro Edge 125. The scooter is powered by a 124.6 cc, air cooled motor. It is capable of generating 9 bhp of max power at 7000 rpm and 10.4 Nm of peak torque at 5500 rpm. It is mated to a variomatic drive gearbox. The scooter has telescopic front suspension and spring loaded hydraulic damper at rear. The scooter is offered in disc and drum brake variants. Price range is Rs 73.2k to Rs 76.7k (ex-showroom, Delhi). More

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    Kia Forte Gets Handsome Refresh for 2022

    Kia is giving its compact Forte sedan a makeover for 2022 that includes updated exterior styling, new wheel designs, and updated tech.Inside, a larger 10.3-inch infotainment display is now available as an option, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity is standard.The 2022 Forte is priced starting just over $20,000 and will be on sale soon, Kia said. Who says small sedans are dead? Not Kia. For 2022, the Korean automaker has freshened its Forte compact car with fresh styling and more tech to keep it in competition with new entrants such as the new 2022 Honda Civic and the updated 2022 Volkswagen Jetta.
    Styling updates for the Forte this year include a revised upper grille that’s narrower than before as well as updated exterior lighting elements, reworked front and rear bumpers, new wheel designs, and a newly available trunklid spoiler. On GT and GT-Line trims, new LED fog lamps are recessed into the lower grille; those models also come with unique LED taillights.

    Inside, the Forte is upgraded with new center console design that ditches the old manual parking brake for an electronic one, freeing up more space for storage. Faux-leather upholstery is now an option, as is a rear-seat USB port for charging smartphones. An 8.0-inch infotainment system is still standard, but it now includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. A larger 10.3-inch display is now optional and comes with in-dash navigation.
    The Forte’s safety cred also sees a bit of a bump for 2022 as several of its available driver-assistance features are upgraded this year. Basics such as automated emergency braking and lane-keeping assist were already standard but a lane following assist feature joins the spec sheet this year too. The car’s automated emergency braking system has been upgraded to watch for both pedestrians and bicyclists and the rear cross-traffic alert system now can apply the brakes if the driver appears to be backing into an obstacle.A new adaptive cruise control system is now available which uses navigation data to predict upcoming curves in the road and automatically slow the Forte’s speed in preparation. That feature is already in use on some Kia and Hyundai models and also monitors posted speed limits. In addition to this new feature, the Forte also can be ordered with a system that can warn the driver if it’s unsafe to exit the vehicle due to approaching traffic or bicyclists.
    Powertrain and chassis components are unchanged. Most models are powered by the familiar 147-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder and continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). With this setup, the Forte delivered a lethargic 8.1-second run to 60 mph at our test track. Thankfully, the GT model remains a part of the lineup. It comes with a 201-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder and either a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic or a six-speed manual. With the manual transmission, the Forte GT managed a 6.7-second run to 60 mph in our hands. Pricing for the entry-level FE model starts at $20,085, while the midrange LXS and GT-Line will cost $20,585 and $22,285 respectively. The sporty GT trim is set to start at $24,485. The 2022 Kia Forte should be rolling into U.S. dealer inventory soon.
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    See 2022 Honda Civic Si Teased in Racing Version with Big Wing

    The 11th-generation Honda Civic will receive the Si treatment soon, and Honda has released a new set of teasers ahead of its debut.The teasers show Honda testing the Civic Si around Thunderhill Raceway, where it will compete in the 25 Hours of Thunderhill in December.The version Honda showed appears decked out for motorsports, with a towering rear wing, sizable front splitter, and air vents in the hood.While the new 11th generation of Honda’s popular Civic looks more grown up than ever before, the more mature styling does not mean that Honda will skip out on performance versions of its newest compact car. As we previously reported, Honda is planning a new Civic Si, as well as a hard-core Type R, and with the Si set to be revealed soon, Honda has released a new batch of teasers for its sporty Civic.

    Honda

    The teasers show Honda testing the new Si at Thunderhill Raceway in California, and the most striking detail is the ginormous wing strapped to the Civic’s decklid. That aerodynamic aid will likely not appear on the production vehicle. Instead, it will be fitted to a racing version of the new Civic Si that Honda says will compete in the 25 Hours of Thunderhill, which will be run December 3–5.

    Other than the wing, visual changes to the Si model appear limited, although the camouflage wrap may be masking some details. There’s a chunky front splitter and two large vents in the hood, although these alterations could also be specific to the racing version. The Civic Si is expected to arrive with a more powerful turbocharged four-cylinder and a sport-tuned suspension, with a manual transmission at least available as an option. The interior will also likely gain sport seats and other small changes. The Civic Si is expected to be revealed later this month.
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    Hero Pleasure Plus Xtec Launch Price Rs 69,500 – Activa 6G Rival

    New Hero Pleasure Plus XTECAfter launching the Xpulse 200 4V a few days ago, Hero MotoCorp has now announced launch of Pleasure Plus XTEC scooter
    Hero Pleasure Plus Xtec has been launched, as the new top of the line variant in the Pleasure Plus lineup. Hero Pleasure+ 110 will be available at Hero MotoCorp dealerships across the country at a starting price of INR 61,900 for LX variant and Pleasure+ 110 XTec starts at INR 69,500. All prices are Ex-Sh.
    Hero Pleasure Plus Xtec – Dimensions and Features
    The Pleasure+ XTec takes forward the retro design theme and premium chrome additions on Mirrors, Muffler Protector, Handle Bar, Seat Backrest and Fender Stripe. Additionally, the dual tone seat and colored inner panels further enhance its overall style. With a branded seat backrest for the pillion, whether it’s a long journey, or your daily city route, the Pleasure+ XTec keeps its promise when it comes to high-quality comfort.
    Over and above the chrome elements that make Pleasure+ a solid ride; it now has an added advantage of a metal front fender that further enhances its durability. For connectivity, The digital analog speedometer with Bluetooth connectivity displays incoming and missed call alerts, new message alerts along with the phone battery status. For safety, Hero Pleasure Plus Xtec has a Side-stand visual indication and a ‘Side-stand Engine cut-off’.
    Dimensions of the new Pleasure Plus Xtec will stand at 1,769mm length, 704mm width and 1,162mm height with a wheelbase of 1,238mm. It will gain ground clearance of 155mm, command a weight of 106 kgs with fuel tank of 4.8 liter capacity.
    New Hero Pleasure Plus XTEC
    Like its regular counterpart, it also sports same colour options of Polestar Blue, Matte Vernier Grey, Matte Black, Matte Green, Midnight Black, Pearl Silver White, and Sporty Red. In addition, it also gets Jubilant Yellow colour, which has been specially created for the Pleasure+ XTec.
    New Hero Pleasure Plus XTEC
    New Pleasure+ XTec comes with first- in- segment projector LED headlamp. The new headlamp provides 25% more light intensity with a longer and wider road reach and anti-fog advantage that offers maximum on-road visibility in all driving conditions.
    Malo Le Masson, Head of Strategy and Global Product Planning, Hero MotoCorp, said “The Pleasure+ 110 is a trendsetter and is quickly becoming one of the country’s most admired and popular scooter. The XTec model brings more charm with elegant elements inspired from the Platinum edition, more durability with the front metal fender, more comfort with a branded seat backrest and a boost of technology with the projector LED headlamp, Bluetooth connectivity, and Hero’s patented i3S technology for enhanced fuel efficiency. The Pleasure+ 110 has just become even more desirable!”
    New Hero Pleasure Plus XTEC
    Hero Pleasure Plus Xtec will see no change in its engine lineup. Similar to that seen on the Pleasure Plus, the Xtec range topping model will get the same 110.9cc, single cylinder, air cooled, OHC, 4 stroke, fuel injected engine that makes 8.0 hp power at 7,000 rpm and 8.70 Nm torque at 5,500 rpm mated to a CVT automatic transmission. Suspension and braking are via spring loaded hydraulic damper and swingarm with spring-loaded hydraulic dampers at the front and rear respectively along with 130mm drum brakes.
    New Hero Maestro Edge 125 With Hero Connect
    Hero MotoCorp offers Hero Connect option on models such as the Xtreme 160R, Xpulse 200, Destini 125, Pleasure Plus and Pleasure Plus Platinum Edition. Soon to be offered on the Hero Maestro Edge 125 as an optional kit, this feature is responsible for live tracking, live tow alert, geo fencing and trip analysis along with topple alert, Hero locate and driving score.
    Apart from this new addition, the Maestro Edge 125 will not sport any other visual updates. It will continue to be powered by the same engine lineup that includes a 124.6cc, single cylinder, air cooled, fuel injected, 4 stroke engine offering 9 hp power at 7,000 rpm and 10.4 Nm torque at 5,500 rpm mated to a CVT.
    It gets telescopic forks in the front and spring-loaded hydraulic damper at the rear respectively. Braking is via 190 mm disc brake in front and 130 mm drum brake at the rear. The current Hero Maestro Edge is priced from Rs 74,000 to Rs 83,000. In India, Hero Maestro Edge 125 takes on Suzuki Access 125 and Honda Activa 125 in terms of competition. More

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    Royal Enfield Hunter 350cc Spied Testing – To Rival Yezdi Roadking

    Royal Enfield Hunter 350Upon its launch, Royal Enfield Hunter 350 will lock its horns against Honda H’Ness CB350 and the upcoming Yezdi Roadking
    Needless to say but Royal Enfield has a lot on its plate currently. The company is striving very hard to stay focussed on its earlier commitment of four launches every year despite the ongoing Covid-19 crisis. Hence, every now and then, one comes across numerous spy shots of various test mules of different models conducting trial testings.
    One of the upcoming motorcycles from Royal Enfield spotted on numerous occasions in recent past is the roadster based on Meteor 350. This motorcycle has been tentatively titled Hunter 350. Another set of spy shots of the classic roadster have surfaced, courtesy auto enthusiast Arjunan Babu.
    Royal Enfield Hunter 350cc – Design
    As witnessed earlier, Hunter carries a classic retro-style design with signature styling highlights such as a round headlamp, a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, a single-piece seat and a short rear section. The bike rides on 17-inch blacked-out alloy wheels. The tail section gets split grab rails and a short circular fender along with a round turn taillight with turn indicators.
    Further, an all-black theme gives the bike a sporty appeal. Parts like its handlebar, alloy wheels, engine casing, exhaust pipe and suspension setup have all been dipped in black paint with a matte finish.
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    Other notable highlights include a shortened upswept exhaust muffler, redesigned side panels, circular rearview mirrors, fork gaiters and wide tyres. The footpegs are placed towards the centre which should provide a comfortable riding posture thanks to the wide and tall handlebar.
    Hunter should get an instrument console which is similar to Meteor 350 consisting of two circular pods- an analogue speedometer and a Tripper Navigation pod. Powered by Google Maps and Royal Enfield App, Tripper provides turn-by-turn navigation on the console when paired to one’s smartphone via Bluetooth. The analogue pod contains a digital display which should read information from the odometer and fuel gauge.
    Mechanical Specs
    Hunter will be based on the J1D platform which currently underpins Meteor 350, however, unlike the cruiser, the roadster will be tad sportier in essence. Suspension duties will be handled by 35 mm telescopic forks at front and twin gas-charged shocks at rear. Braking duties will be carried out by single disc brakes on both wheels assisted by a dual-channel ABS.
    The upcoming roadster will be powered by a 349cc single-cylinder air-cooled OHC engine that can dish out 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm of peak torque. This unit will be coupled with a 5-speed gearbox and is more refined than the previous generation 350cc engine thanks to a counter-balance shaft. No official launch timeline has been confirmed by Royal Enfield yet. We expect it to be priced upwards of Rs 1.80 lakh (ex-showroom). I will take on the soon to be launched Yezdi Roadking. More

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    Bajaj Pulsar 250cc Launch Date 28th Oct – FZ25, Gixxer 250 Rival

    2021 Bajaj Pulsar 250cc – NS250 and 250F
    Upon their launch, the naked iteration of Pulsar 250 is expected to cost around Rs 1.60 lakh and the semi-faired version could cost an additional Rs 10,000
    With just a few days to go for its launch, Bajaj is extensively testing the new 250cc Pulsar before it starts dispatching units of the motorcycle to dealerships across the country. The upcoming quarter-litre motorcycle will be available in two iterations- naked and semi-faired as NS250 and 250F respectively.
    Spy shots of both Bajaj Pulsar 250cc motorcycles have frequently been shared on the internet, giving us a sneak peek into their styling. It had already been confirmed by Bajaj that the new quarter-litre Pulsars will be launching around Diwali this year – which also marks 20th anniversary of Pulsar brand. Now there is a date. Bajaj Pulsar 250 will launch in in India on 28th October.
    Bajaj Pulsar 250cc Launch – Same motorcycles, different designs
    In terms of overall design, NS250 is set to borrow major styling cues from its other naked streetfighter siblings- NS160 and NS200. The same is the case with 250F which shares many styling elements with the current flagship Pulsar 220F.
    From the looks of it, both motorcycles flaunt an aggressive front fascia featuring a single-pod LED headlamp cluster and integrated LED DRLs. The semi-faired iteration of the motorcycle gets an even more aggressive front end with a large headlamp cowl and a flyscreen that integrates into the side fairing.
    New Bajaj Pulsar 250cc Motorcycles
    Fuel tank designs on both derivatives look muscular with aggressive lines lending them aerodynamic characteristics. Both motorcycles feature a similar raised tail section, a split seating setup and a side-mounted upswept exhaust setup. Other common highlights include a clip-on handlebar, an engine underbelly cowl, boomerang-shaped LED taillights, a muscular front fender and split pillion grab rails.
    Expected Mechanical Specs, Features
    The new Pulsar 250 will be underpinned by an all-new frame which will be suspended on telescopic forks at front and a mono-shock linked to the swingarm at rear.
    Braking hardware will comprise disc brakes at both ends complemented by dual-channel ABS as standard. Other features expected to be included in the equipment are a fully digital console with Bluetooth connectivity and multiple riding modes.
    New Bajaj Pulsar 250cc – Pulsar 250F
    Powering Pulsar 250 will be a new 249cc single-cylinder air/oil-cooled engine which is likely to pump out 24 bhp and 20 Nm of peak torque. This unit will be coupled with a 6-speed gearbox with a slipper and assist clutch. As per an earlier report, this engine is also expected to be equipped with variable valve actuation (VVT). When launched, the new Pulsar 250 siblings will rival the likes of Yamaha FZ25 and Suzuki Gixxer and SF 250. More