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    2022 KTM RC390 Photos Leak Via Official Website Ahead Of Debut

    2022 KTM RC 390 Photos LeakUnofficial bookings for the upcoming new gen 2022 KTM RC 390 has already opened at select dealerships – Launch is expected in coming weeks
    KTM is in the process of updating its RC range including RC 125, 200 and 390. RC390 could be the first to be launched in its new-gen avatar. Photos of the 2022 KTM RC 390 have now leaked via official website.
    Earlier today, KTM seems to have made the new gen RC390 website LIVE by mistake. It was soon taken down. But not before automotive enthusiast Yadu Krishnan managed to save the same. Thanks to this, we now have detailed photos of the new gen 2022 KTM RC 390.
    New KTM RC390 design and styling
    Seen in a dual tone livery of Blue and Orange shade, new RC390 could gets a single LED headlamp in place of the existing twin projector headlights at the front. The new unit could be similar to the one currently in use with 390 Duke. Trendy DRLs are also expected to enhance the overall look and feel of the front fascia. The fuel tank looks larger on new RC390, which means lesser stops at fuel stations. The current model can carry max 9.5 litres of fuel.
    Another key change can be seen in the riding position of the updated bike. New RC390 appears to have relaxed ergonomics, something similar to what you would expect from a sports-tourer. This is evident in the slightly higher-up handlebars and more forward-set foot pegs. Pillion comfort also seems to have been improved with new RC390. The height of pillion seat is just right and foot pegs are forward set, as compared to that of current model.
    2022 KTM RC 390 Photos Leak
    The fairing has undergone a major refresh, although it carries on with the core theme of double-layer design. Whether it’s better than the current version is a subjective matter, better left to user interpretations.
    2022 KTM RC390 engine and specs
    Engine will be same as earlier, a 373cc single cylinder, liquid cooled unit that is capable of generating 43 hp of max power and 35 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 6-speed transmission. The only possibility is that a few tweaks could be introduced to achieve improved reliability. This engine has been in use since around a decade now. KTM has consistently improved it over the years, including changes that were required to meet new emission norms.
    Chassis appears to be updated; a bolt-on sub-frame in place of the welded-on design of current model. Suspension system seems to be same as earlier – USD forks at the front and a monoshock unit at the rear with braced alloy swingarm. However, KTM could introduce tweaks that would make the rides more comfortable.
    2022 KTM RC 390 exhaust end can is seen with a mesh cover.
    Wheels and braking setup has also been updated on new RC390. The bike could get some advanced features such as traction control, lean angle-sensitive ABS and bi-directional quickshifter. These features are currently available with 390 Adventure. New RC390 could also get a new Bluetooth-enabled colour TFT instrument console.
    It is likely that new KTM RC390 could be launched in the coming weeks, most likely this month. However, considering the unpredictability surrounding Covid pandemic, things could get delayed. When launched, new RC390 is expected to be around costlier than the current version. The current model retails at a starting price of Rs 2.77 lakh, after the price hike last month. More

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    Ola Electric Scooter Bookings Open At Rs 499 – Pink, Blue Colours Spied

    Ola Electric Scooter – New ColoursThe yet unnamed Ola electric scooter will receive best-in-segment under seat storage space, category-leading long range charge and keyless, app-based access
    We have long been talking about the new Ola electric scooter that is now getting ready for launch. Test mules under heavy camouflage have been doing the rounds since the start of this year. Ola has revealed their electric scooter for India in its production ready guise already.
    More recently, Bhavish Aggarwal, OLA Group CEO and Chairman, has tweeted on the upcoming Ola electric scooter. He has offered insights into its onboard features, some of which are said to be best in class with under-seat storage space as reports claims to offer 50 liters of storage space. Other exclusive features will also include keyless, app-based access along with category leading long range charge.
    Features that the new Ola e-scooter will also get could include a digital instrument cluster, cloud connectivity, alloy wheels, a removable lithium battery pack and telescopic suspension. The company’s advertising team had also released some ‘crazy ads’ and Aggarwal’s tweet also indicated that anyone with ideas on marketing could get in touch with the company or re-tweet.
    New Colours
    Ola Electric scooter has already been revealed in black and white colour options via studio images. Just recently, Ola CEO had asked on twitter what colour options should the Ola electric scooter be offered with. Now, thanks to anonymous automotive enthusiast, the upcoming Ola Electric scooter is seen in Blue and Pink colour options.
    Ola Electric Scooter – New Colours
    Starting today, consumers can book their Ola Scooter on olaelectric(dot)com by paying a refundable deposit of Rs 499. OLA CEO announced on twitter – “India’s EV revolution begins today! Bookings now open for the Ola Scooter! India has the potential to become the world leader in EVs and we’re proud to lead this charge!” Those who book now will get priority delivery.
    Ola Electric Scooter Range – 122 kms with 87% charge
    Ola Plant with Industry 4.0 norms
    Ola Electric is currently working on setting up a state of the art production unit and has also entered into an agreement with Siemens for the plant in Krishnagiri district of Tamil Nadu, at an investment of Rs.2,400 crores. The facility will have full capacity of 10 million units per annum making it the world’s largest two-wheeler factory.
    The Ola Tamil Nadu plant will help to generate around 10,000 employment opportunities and will comply with Industry 4.0 norms. Besides catering to the demands in Indian markets will also focus on exports to countries of Europe, Asia and Latin America.
    Ola Electric Scooter – New Colours
    Class-Leading Speed, Performance and Range
    The Ola electric scooter to be launched in India sometime in second half of 2021, will have a maximum range of 240 kms per single charge. Acceleration from 0 to 45 km/h will be achieved in 3.9 seconds while top speed will be at above 80 km/h. The Ola e-scooter could be priced in around Rs 1 lakh and will rival the likes of the Ather 450X, Bajaj e-Chetak, TVS iQube and other e-scooters also set for launch in our markets in the near future. More

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    Yamaha XSR 250 Spied Testing For The First Time – Bajaj Dominar Rival?

    2021 Yamaha XSR 250 Spied TestingA new test mule has been spotted on Yamuna Expressway – Believed to be Yamaha XSR 250 for the Indian market
    In recent years, the popularity of retro classic motorcycles has found a new resurgence in India with new players other than Royal Enfield like Jawa, Benelli and Honda making an entry into this segment and garnering the attention of traditional motorcyclists. However, mass-selling manufacturers haven’t yet shown any interest in venturing into this space anytime soon.
    However, it seems Yamaha might be making some progress in this regard. It is already known that the Japanese bikemaker retails XSR 155 retro-style motorcycle in international markets. This bike is based on the same underpinnings and powertrain as YZF R15 V3 and its naked sibling MT15.
    XSR 250 in making?
    As of now, the launch of XSR 155 has not been confirmed by Yamaha but we think the company might want to build a retro motorcycle at a higher segment for the Indian market. This model might cater to the competitive quarter-litre class of motorcycles and might wear the ‘XSR’ branding. In fact, earlier in 2019, it was reported that the Japanese manufacturer was indeed planning to extend its XSR lineup in its global lineup of products.
    Now, spy images of a test motorcycle have been clicked on Yamuna Expressway by automotive enthusiast Junaid. Though there is no branding seen on the said motorcycle, Yamaha has been known to test their upcoming motorcycles on this highway often.
    2021 Yamaha XSR 250 Spied Testing
    At this point in time, it is very difficult to make an accurate presumption about this bike. However, going by these spy shots, the silhouette is very similar to images of the possible XSR 250 prototype which made its appearance in an Indonesian auto magazine in 2019.
    The test mule is wearing similar alloys, front suspension to those of existing Yamaha motorcycles like the FZ series. The engine unit also looks similar. It delivers a more relaxed riding position with large seat and good cushioning. It also seems to have a larger fuel tank – all points indicating towards this new motorcycle being a highway cruiser. Instrument cluster seen is a digital unit.
    Expected Specifications
    The motorcycle’s design is expected to feature retro bodywork along the lines of XSR family and positioned between XSR 155 and XSR 750. It is likely to be powered by the same 250cc engine which powers the FZ25 in India. This unit delivers about 21 PS and 20 Nm via 5 speed gearbox.
    2021 Yamaha XSR 250 Spied Testing
    Suspension setup is likely to comprise inverted telescopic forks at front and mono-shock at rear. Braking duties will be handled by a single disc at each end assisted by dual-channel ABS as standard. A prototype of this was earlier speculated to make its debut at last year’s Auto Expo, however, that didn’t happen. With test mule now on the road, expect the launch of this new Yamaha XSR motorcycle to take place in a few months.
    If not the 250, this new Yamaha motorcycle could be powered by a 149cc unit, which powers the FZ FI and FZS FI currently. If that is the case, this test mule could be the Indianized version of XSR 155 which is currently on sale in the international market. Yamaha India has already launched R15, MT15 in similar style – lower features to keep costs in check. Yamaha has stronger sales in the 150 cc segment and launching a 150cc XSR will definitely help the company further strengthen their market share in the segment.
    Yamaha XSR 150 or the XSR 250 ?
    Yamaha 250cc Sales
    The 250cc segment is growing rapidly. Recently, Bajaj launched multiple motorcycles in this segment, and has plans to launch even more. Yamaha already have a localized 250cc engine, which makes it a more logical choice for this upcoming motorcycle.
    FZ25 sales have been below expectations (0 units sold in Feb 2021) and launching more motorcycles in 250cc segment, will help Yamaha benefit better from this engine that has been specially developed for India. It is highly localized, allowing Yamaha to price the FZ25 competitively in the Rs 1.6 lakh range (ex-sh). Expect the Yamaha XSR250 to be priced in a similar range. Once launched, it could take on the likes of Bajaj Dominar 250 as well as could be a more affordable option against the likes of Honda CB350 and Royal Enfield Classic 350. More

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    New Yezdi Or Jawa Scrambler Test Mule Spied – RE Hunter, CB350RS Rival

    New Yezdi or Jawa Scrambler on testThe crank case design of the engine is remarkable similar to that of the Yezdi RoadKing
    An interesting new camouflaged prototype of a retro-classic scrambler was spotted testing along the Pune to Nashik highway. While the identity of the test mule was concealed, there are some strong clues which point towards it being the upcoming Yezdi motorcycle under Classic Legends. It could also be the Jawa Scrambler that is currently in the works.
    Is it a new Yezdi motorcycle?
    We all know that Classic Legends, a part of Mahindra, is working on reviving BSA and Yezdi brands after bringing back the venerable Jawa nameplate to life. With added support from Mahindra in terms of hiring new personnel both in India and abroad to support the projects, Classic Legends’ medium term plans seem to be afoot at a brisk pace.
    New Yezdi or Jawa Scrambler on test
    When Classic Legends derived the new Jawa Motorcycles from the Mahindra Mojo platform, particular care was taken to replicate the brand’s vintage design traits including the crankcase. In the same fashion, the test mule which was spied recently, although devoid of production spec body panels, does feature a crankcase which is pretty similar to the yesteryear’s Yezdi RoadKing.
    Design
    The prototype is still far away from being production ready but we can see that it is progressing towards a scrambler body style. The cantilevered tailpiece, the tyres, riding posture and the general minimalist approach are expected to be carried forward to the final version as well.
    Engine casing resembles Yezdi
    We also expect the motorcycle to be equipped with modern features like LED taillight, a digital console (at least partially digital) and dual-channel ABS. From what we can see, the motor is a liquid-cooled unit with twin-silencers.
    New Yezdi or Jawa Scrambler on test
    The exhaust canister is still work in progress, but the configuration reminds us of the first iteration of Mojo. The new Yezdi motorcycle’s displacement should be around 300 cc. Power is estimated to be in the same ballpark as the Jawa siblings – around 27 to 30 hp.
    Market positioning
    Yezdi brand still evokes a strong sense of nostalgia among the Indian motorcycle enthusiasts. The new motorcycle will benefit from the lessons Classic Legends learnt from the execution of its Jawa projects. The upcoming motorcycle, from the looks of it, is expected to be positioned as a sportier alternative to the Jawa models. Competition will come from the likes of newly launched Honda CB350RS and the upcoming Royal Enfield Hunter 350.
    Classic Legends is also working on reviving BSA, yet another long forgotten two wheeler brand that has a strong potential in the current times. While Mahindra could not make the Mojo work commercially, it surely has found a way to extract the untapped potential of the platform through Classic Legends’ business model. More

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    2021 Royal Enfield Classic 350 Instrument Cluster Spied – Gets Tripper Navigation

    2021 Royal Enfield Classic 350
    The new-gen Royal Enfield Classic 350 is expected to be launched in the next few weeks

    Royal Enfield has its hands full with its recent commitment to launch at least four new products every year. Late last year, the brand launched its all-new cruiser Meteor 350 which was followed by an updated version of Himalayan early this year. For the next quarter, it is expected that the Chennai-based bikemaker will introduce a new generation model of Classic 350.
    Test mules of the upcoming Classic 350 have been spotted on numerous occasions recently. Seeing all spy shots, there hardly seems to be any cosmetic difference between the new model and the current model, at first glance at least. It is evident that Royal Enfield wouldn’t want to tinker with the design of a bike that has been the company’s best-seller for many years.
    Revised Instrument Cluster
    However, there are some crucial additions to this motorcycle that would make the upcoming iteration of the retro-styled classic bike a little more than just bare bones. For the first time, the revamped instrument cluster of the upcoming Classic 350 has been spied.
    We get to notice two important additions- a small digital display along with a Tipper Navigation pod beside it. The digital display will probably read out basic information from the odometer and fuel gauge. It retains the manual speedometer.
    2021 Royal Enfield Classic 350
    The Tripper Navigation made its first appearance in Meteor 350 and later on the update Himalayan and would soon be made available on all models across Royal Enfield’s range. It provides turn-by-turn navigation on the display pod when connected to the rider’s smartphone via the Royal Enfield App where one can enter destination information. The app world in association with Google Maps which feeds the data on the display screen of the pod.
    Styling
    As mentioned earlier, Royal Enfield has not made many changes to its overall design with most of its elements being carried over from the current model. This includes circular headlamps with chrome bezels, chrome-plated exhaust, broad rear fenders, circular rearview mirrors and a teardrop-shaped fuel tank.
    The only notable updates spotted are narrower round LED lights and turn indicators. It gets new split seats with better cushioning for a more comfortable long-distance ride. It now gets a new single-piece grab rail which is positioned slightly higher for better reach to the pillion.
    2021 Royal Enfield Classic 350
    Specifications
    As far as hardware is concerned it will be based on a new J platform the same which underpins Meteor 350. It is built on a double-cradle chassis instead of a single downtube frame as in the current model though suspension setup hasn’t been tinkered much.
    The new-gen Classic 350 will be powered by an all-new 348cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine which churns out 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm of peak torque. This is 1 bhp more and 1 Nm less than the current model’s output. It will be linked to a new 5-speed gearbox. Upon its launch, it will rival the likes of Benelli Imperiale, Jawa Forty-Two and Honda H’Ness CB350. More

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    KTM Plans To Launch GasGas Enduro Motorcycles In India

    GasGas EC250F
    With is new street-legal lineup, KTM’s subsidiary would be aiming to cater to India’s under served off-road motorcycle segment

    Riding on a strong global sales performance in the recent years, KTM went on an acquisition spree in a bid to consolidate its position as Europe’s largest motorcycle brand. After bringing the Swedish Husqvarna brand into its umbrella and successfully widening its scope, the Austrian brand went ahead and acquired Spanish off-road specialist GasGas in 2019. We have learnt that KTM is gearing up to introduce GasGas in India later this year.
    GasGas enduro motorcycle coming to India
    GasGas specializes primarily in medium displacement and pure electric off-road motorcycles but with access to KTM’s well established road-legal platforms, the brand is preparing to foray into new volume-rich segments. International media reports speculate that GasGas is currently working on as many as 3 street motorcycles which are mostly likely to adopt enduro and/or adventure tourer body styles.
    While two of them are expected to be based on KTM’s 790 Duke platform, the entry level model is most likely to be a 250 cc model based on India-made Duke’s platform. So, we believe this quarter liter enduro is going to be the first GasGas to be introduced in our market.
    While the critical components of this platform are already heavily localized in India, some parts including the bodywork are likely to be imported. We expect the GasGas to have a relatively low volume run compared to its KTM and Husqvarna siblings.
    GasGas EC250F
    GasGas 250 motorcycle
    GasGas already has a 250 cc hardcore, track-focused off-roader in its international portfolio in the form of EC250F which retails at 9,700 euros (over INR 8.5 lakh) but we don’t it is a viable product for India. The brand’s new range of street motorcycles are still under wraps and India is likely to be the launch market for one of them.
    The enduro segment in India is heavily under served as of now. The Hero Impulse 200 is the closest one could get to a compact displacement enduro motorcycle in India but it still not serious enough to appeal to hardcore off-road enthusiasts.
    The upcoming GasGas motorcycle based on KTM platform would be aiming to address this niche. With WP suspension setup, high ground clearance, off-road tyres, spoke wheels and lightweight body, the motorcycle is expected to have an entirely different character compared to its platform-mates.
    Launch timeline
    If things progress as per schedule, the new street-legal GasGas enduro motorcycle should be launched in India sometime later this year. In fact the imported kits for the motorcycle have already reached India. GasGas products will be retailed through well established KTM dealership network in the country. We expect the pricing to be on the premium end and dearer than the existing KTM 250 products. More

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    Royal Enfield Hunter 350 Instrument Cluster Spied – Tripper Navigation Missing

    Royal Enfield Hunter 350 Spied
    The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 employs an eccentrically placed digi-analog instrument console

    A camouflaged prototype Royal Enfield Hunter with some accessories was spied up close while stationary. The test mule appears to be not fully production ready but not far from it either. The latest spy shots give us a clear idea on how the motorcycle’s instrument panel looks like.
    Royal Enfield Hunter 350
    Royal Enfield is currently working on building a strong and eclectic range of 350 cc motorcycles based on its new generation J platform. The Meteor 350 which replaced the Thunderbird was the first of many new RE’s to come. While the loyalists are eagerly waiting for the next generation Classic 350, Royal Enfield threw a surprise in the form of another retro-classic Roadster.
    The Eicher-owned two wheeler brand has registered Hunter as a trademark, leading us to believe that the new 350 cc roadster will carry this moniker. To be positioned alongside the new Classic 350 as a sportier alternative to lure younger audience, the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 will feature a sleek fuel tank, circular headlamp, possibly with LED elements, single-piece seat, LED taillight and a simple tailpiece.
    Going by the prototype, the Hunter 350 is most likely to be equipped with alloy wheels and black finished engine and exhaust pipe. The prototype was wearing chrome finished headlamp cowl but we expect the final production version to feature a black unit.
    Production version is expected to offer Tripper Navigation as well
    The Royal Enfield Hunter 350 employs a unique digi analog instrument console with a rectangular MID. While this particular mule does not feature an additional dial for Tripper Navigation system (Smartphone enabled turn-by-turn navigation), it is reasonable to assume the motorcycle to be offered with it at the time of launch.
    Specifications
    The Royal Enfield Hunter 350, as the spyshot shows, borrows its 349 cc air-cooled engine from the Meteor 350. Widely acclaimed for being much more refined than its predecessor, the new mill dishes out 20.2 hp and 27 Nm of torque. Gearbox is a conventional 5-speed unit.
    There is nothing particularly interesting about the suspension or braking system. The roadster employs traditional telescopic front forks covered with rubber gaiters, and twin-rear shock absorbers. Like all modern Royal Enfields, the Hunter is equipped with front and rear disc brakes with dual-channel ABS.
    Royal Enfield Hunter 350 Instrument Cluster – Analog Speedometer, Digital MID
    On board the Royal Enfield Hunter, the speedometer is analog and is seen with markings in kmph as well as mph. The speedo is listed till max speed of 160 kmph / 100 mph – just like the new Meteor 350. Other details like fuel level, trip meters, etc are expected to be listed in the digital MID.
    Market positioning
    With the Royal Enfield Hunter 350, the company would be aiming to fend off fresh competition like the Honda CB350. Royal Enfield’s leadership in the Indian medium displacement segment continues to be strong even during the challenging year that was 2020.
    The Classic 350 continues to be a cash cow for the brand and with the new gen model coming later this year, things are only going to get stronger. The Hunter will be playing a consolidating role.
    Royal Enfield Hunter 350 Spied More

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    New Honda CB350 Cafe Racer Name CB350RS – Leaked In New Teaser?

    Honda CB350RS Cafe Racer Teaser
    The styling tweaks include black accents instead of chrome, a new tailpiece, and colour themes

    Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) took its time to develop a Royal Enfield challenger in the form of H’ness CB350 but is now already gearing up to spawn a variant extension. The Honda CB350 Cafe Racer has been teased once again in a build up to its unveil on February 16th.
    Honda CB350 Cafe Racer
    The H’ness CB350’s simple roadster body style with minimalist styling is a perfect to spawn an array of variants to cater to different tastes. The Cafe Racer with design tweaks would be targeting younger audience with a sportier appeal.
    From what can be seen from the teasers, the upcoming variant of the medium displacement retro-classic motorcycle features a new cantilevered tailpiece with compact LED taillight and mudguard mounted license plate and indicators.
    While the regular Honda CB350 embraces chrome appointments, Cafe Racer adopts black finish for the front and rear fenders, exhaust canister, rear shock absorber springs and the front fork. The new handlebar makes for a slightly sportier riding posture to suit the Cafe Racer styling. All other elements are shared with the regular model.
    Link to the teaser image reveals the name CB350RS
    The Name – Honda CB350RS
    Honda has revealed a new teaser today, and also launched a dedicated web-page on their official website of Big Wing. After taking a look at the page source of this new teaser website, you will notice that the name CB350RS is seen multiple times in the site’s coding as well as in the URL.
    Honda CB350RS name appears in the official website coding
    This indicates that the name of the CB350 based new motorcycle is likely going to be christened as CB350RS or CB 350 RS or CB350 RS. Whatever is the official name, it will be revealed on 16th Feb 2021, at the time of launch.
    Honda CB350RS Specifications
    The Honda CB350RS is powered by a 348 cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine which is expected to be carried forward without any changes. The motor produces 21 hp and 30 Nm of torque, and is paired with a 5-speed gearbox. The frame and suspension setup, wheels and braking system remain the same but the tyres adopt different buttons to suit the new variant’s character. To recap, the motorcycle is equipped with front and rear disc brakes with standard dual-channel ABS system.
    Honda CB350RS Website
    The digi-analog instrument panel has been retained, and just like its sibling, the Honda CB350RS Cafe Racer will sport turn-by-turn navigation, music and telephone control supported by Bluetooth connectivity, and Honda Selectable Torque Control. Other noteworthy features include smartphone voice control, side stand engine cut-off, and battery health indicator.
    Honda BigWing
    The Honda CB350 RS Cafe Racer will be retailed exclusively through the brand’s BigWing premium dealership network. While this approach restricts its territorial coverage when compared to Royal Enfield motorcycles, Honda is working on significantly expanding its BigWing network across the country. Premium ownership experience is a part of the motorcycle’s appeal and BigWing goes a long way in ensuring that.
    More India-specific models on the way?
    At the time of launching the CB350, Honda hinted that a bigger thump is coming. While there are no specifics as of now, it is rumoured that a CB500 could be in the works. With heavy localization, a bigger engined Honda motorcycle with retro-classic styling would emerge as a compelling alternative to Royal Enfield’s ever-expanding twin-cylinder portfolio. More