Top Stories

Subterms

    More stories

    • 113 Shares199 Views

      in Bike

      2021 Suzuki Hayabusa Production-Spec Model Leaks Ahead Of Debut

      by

      2021 Suzuki Hayabusa – Leaked image
      The new-gen Suzuki Hayabusa is expected to be powered by a larger 1,440cc engine mated to either a six-speed manual or a DCT as an option

      Suzuki Hayabusa commands a different name and respect altogether in the superbike segment globally. The speed monster from Suzuki is slated to get a major update soon, proof of which was seen recently in a teaser video shared by the Japanese auto giant.
      Shortly days after it was globally teased, images of the production-spec model of new Hayabusa seems to be doing rounds on the internet, thanks to a leaked brochure. Images of the latest iteration of the faired superbike were first seen on Instagram handle @hayabusa_taiwan.
      Styling & Expected Features
      From the leaked images, it appears that the new Hayabusa model still maintains design lines of its previous-gen model. Revisions have been made to add a more aggressive front fascia by adopting more concise fairing.
      The exhaust design has also been changed which is longer and chrome-plated now. According to reports from several foreign media houses, the new-gen Hayabusa will come equipped with LED headlights, a new tank, and a more aerodynamic front fascia.
      2021 Suzuki Hayabusa Render
      Coming to dynamics, it will be built on the same twin-spar type aluminum frame assisted by the latest Kayaba suspension system. From the images seen on the teaser recently, the bike was seen clocking a speed of around 180mph (290kph) on an analogue speedometer flanked by a TFT screen which is expected to read out plenty of ride data.
      Apart from this, the new 2021 Hayabusa will be packed with plenty of electronic aids such as IMU-based features such as Hill Start Assist, ABS cornering package, traction control, multiple riding modes and more.
      Expected Engine Specs
      Rumours are rife that the updated Hayabusa will draw its power from a larger 1440cc inline four-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine instead of the older 1340cc unit. There is still ambiguity regarding its exact specifications but it is expected to dish out a massive 200 bhp.
      More importantly, this unit will comply with the latest Euro-5 emission norms. This has been achieved with the addition of a new intake and exhaust system to Hayabusa. Patent filings revealed earlier showed significant improvements made to its exhaust setup including catalytic converters in order to tackle stricter emission norms.
      International Debut & Prospective India Launch
      More details about the new-gen Suzuki Hayabusa will be revealed on its official debut which is slated for February 5, 2021. From the looks of it, it seems Suzuki is very keen on reclaiming the most coveted title of being the fastest production motorcycle in the world which it held for decades. Upon its launch, it will directly lock horns with its immediate Japanese rival- the supercharged Kawasaki Ninja H2.
      Its India launch is still very uncertain. At one point, it was the most expensive locally assembled bike in the country. If at all Suzuki decides to bring it to India, it most likely will arrive imported via the CKD or CBU route. More

    • 138 Shares139 Views

      in Bike

      2021 Honda CB350 Cafe Racer Teased Officially – Launch 16th Feb

      by

      2021 Honda CB350 Cafe Racer Teaser
      The recently launched Honda H’Ness CB350 rivals the likes of Royal Enfield Classic 350, Benelli Imperiale and Jawa Forty-Two

      Honda has been able to turn many heads with the recently launched Hness 350. While many of us were eyeing for a design based on the Rebel Cruiser, Honda has pleasantly surprised us by revealing an all-new bike with a classic retro design.
      The bike employs a new locally developed 350cc mill and carries design elements that are inspired by earlier larger retro-styled motorcycles. During the unveiling event, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) revealed its plan of expanding its premium retail vertical- Big Wing dealerships across the country by further strengthening its product portfolio.
      Honda’s Big Wing Expansion
      During the presentation, the Japanese brand also revealed a background art that would possibly suggest some new products in Honda’s Big Wing lineup. While three out of the four body arts could be identified as- CB500F- a naked roadster, CB500R- a fully-faired track bike; and CB500X- an adventure tourer. All three bikes have been in development for a long time now and are expected to be launched within a short space of time next year. All three bikes will employ the same set of powertrains.
      However, things get interesting when the fourth bike’s silhouette resembles the recently revealed H’Ness CB350 which makes us believe that there might be another product on the way from the Japanese bike maker. Today, Honda India has officially shared the teaser of this 4th bike, which was first teased during the CB350 launch.
      2021 Honda CB350 Cafe Racer Teaser
      As per the latest teaser, this bike is going to be a cafe racer, based on the CB350. It will be powered by the same engine as the CB350. The H’Ness CB350 is powered by a locally developed 348cc unit single-cylinder, air-cooled unit which produces 21 bhp and 30 Nm of peak torque.
      This unit is linked to a 5-speed gearbox. It is priced at Rs 1.86 lakhs ex-sh for the base variant and Rs 1.92 lakhs for the top variant. CB350 Cafe Racer variant will be launched on 16th Feb, and is expected to be priced around the same range as the existing CB350.
      An Even Bigger Thump Coming?
      At the time of CB350 launch Honda specifically mentioned that a “bigger thump is on the way”. It is possible that they were referring to yet another motorcycle, which will be more powerful than the CB350. In all probability, this bike will employ a 500cc engine. Now, the question arises whether it will be the same 500cc twin-cylinder unit that powers the above trio of bikes or a locally produced 500cc single-cylinder bike.
      If this theory indeed holds some ground, we might see a retro-styled design CB500 in a few years. It will be of greater significance since its key rival Royal Enfield has discontinued all its 500cc offerings earlier this year. Therefore, there is an opening in market that has been left vacant and Honda will be aiming to occupy this space.
      Even before the launch of CB350, there were murmurs about a bigger displacement bike on the same platform. Although, these are just speculations at the moment and things will hopefully get clearer in future. The CB500 twins are powered by a 471cc parallel-twin engine which kicks out 47 bhp and 43 Nm of peak torque. More

    • 188 Shares129 Views

      in Bike

      New Royal Enfield Himalayan Leaks Via Official Website – 2021 Price Rs 2.51 L ?

      by

      2021 Royal Enfield Himalayan
      2021 Royal Enfield Himalayan was online via official website for a few hours – before it was taken down

      Popular among adventure enthusiasts, Royal Enfield Himalayan is set to receive new features and updates with the 2021 model. Although the company has not officially announced the launch date of 2021 Himalayan, it is expected very soon.
      The updated model can boost Himalayan sales in both domestic as well as international markets. As may be recalled, Himalayan is the second most exported Royal Enfield motorcycle, next only to the 650 twins.
      2021 Himalayan Leaked
      Ahead of its launch, the New Royal Enfield Himalayan has now been leaked via the official RE website. Vlogger Bullet Guru has managed to share exclusive images of the 2021 Himalayan while it was LIVE on the company website.
      These leaked images were saved when Royal Enfield was most likely testing the updated Himalayan and its features / customisations on offer via the official website and the mobile app. As per the leak, price of 2021 Himalayan is Rs 2,51,565, ex-sh.
      2021 Royal Enfield Himalayan
      It is not clear if this price is with the panniers / customization or without. If it is with the panniers, then the price is same as current Himalayan. If not, than the new Himalayan comes with a price hike of Rs 20k. More details will be available at the time of launch.
      Royal Enfield Himalayan 2021 – New colours
      2021 Royal Enfield Himalayan is more about functional improvements rather than visual updates. In terms of design, it remains largely the same as earlier. However, it does provide more personalization options to customers in the form of three new colours. These are Pine Green, Mirage Silver and Granite Black.
      A unique aspect about the new colour themes is that these motorcycles will have contrasting brown seats. While the brown seat compliments the look and feel of Mirage Silver and Granite Black colours, it looks a bit radical with the Pine Green colour option. The brown seat is expected to offer more comfort, as it utilizes high density foam.
      2021 Royal Enfield Himalayan
      With the introduction of new colours, some of the earlier options have been removed. The ones that have been retained include Lake Blue, Gravel Grey and Rock Red.
      Another update is the taller windshield, which will provide improved protection against the wind. It also enhances the motorcycle’s road presence. Other design elements are the same as earlier such as round headlamp and rear view mirrors, sculpted fuel tank, sleek turn indicators, upswept exhaust and slim tail section.
      2021 Royal Enfield Himalayan
      Tripper Navigation
      2021 Royal Enfield Himalayan is likely to get Tripper navigation system that displays navigational arrows on a dedicated screen located next to the primary instrument pod. A segment-first feature, the Tripper system was first introduced with Royal Enfield Meteor 350. It seems even more relevant for adventure-ready Himalayan.
      Tripper system is hugely beneficial, as users don’t need to use their smartphone to see navigational directions. They just need the Royal Enfield app to connect to the Tripper system and enter the required destination. Once that is done, the Tripper screen continues to display navigational arrows. It works with Google maps in the background.
      2021 Royal Enfield Himalayan
      Updated front rack and rear carrier
      To avoid reported issue of knees touching the front rack, Royal Enfield has shifted it a bit forward and also made it slightly shorter. The rear carrier has also been updated with the use of flat surface metal plate. This should make it sturdier and allow users to carry more luggage. Other equipment such as engine, frame, suspension and braking setup will be the same as earlier.

      Source More

    • 125 Shares99 Views

      in Bike

      Hero MotoCorp Planning To Launch An Electric Car In India

      by

      Image for reference
      On the occasion to mark production of 100 million units, Hero MotoCorp launched six special celebration edition models

      World’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer Hero MotoCorp recently clocked its 100th million production unit in the form of new Xtreme 160R. The company has a selling capacity of 5 lakh units on a monthly basis at any given period. Going forward, the homegrown manufacturer has revealed its plans for future.
      The first major announcement made was that Hero MotoCorp would be launching ten new two-wheelers every year for the next five years. In addition to expanding its global footprint, the company will be launching new motorcycles and scooters under its vision ‘Be the Future of Mobility’.
      Plan For Future – Electric car?
      Hero MotoCorp has shared its plans with Dr. Pawan Munjal, Chairman & CEO, Hero MotoCorp addressing a large audience including customers, dealers, investors, suppliers, distributors, employees and media. Munjal summarised the company’s plan and vision for the next five years. During this period Hero MotoCorp will further aim to consolidate its numero uno position in the Indian market and expand its footprint on global markets.
      The company will be launching new, exciting and relevant products during this period and at the same time continue working on innovative product concepts. In the next five years, Hero will be launching ten products every year including variants, upgrades and refreshes. This includes both motorcycles and scooters.
      Hero Quark 1 electric 3 wheeler concept
      In an interview with Times of India, Dr Munjal also stated that Hero MotoCorp does not intend to be limited only to the two wheelers space. We have already seen their 3 wheeler electric concept Quark1 – which is a brainchild of their internal startup called Hero Hatch.
      Hero MotoCorp has a part, which is consistently working to be the future of mobility. Hero is not the first two wheeler company to dabble in the four wheeler space. Earlier, Yamaha has also suggested that they might enter the electric car space.
      Hero Manufacturing Facilities
      Currently, the brand has eight manufacturing facilities in India out of which six of them are in India and one each in Bangladesh and Colombia. In India, these facilities are located in Neemrana in Rajasthan, Haridwar in Uttarakhand, Halol in Gujarat and Gurgaon and Dharuhera in Haryana. Operations in the sixth plant at Chittoor in Andhra Pradesh began last year.
      Production capacities per annum at each facility are as follows- 1.7 mn at Haridwar, UK; 2.1 mn at Dharuhera, Haryana; 2.1 mn at Gurgaon, HR, 1.1 mn at Neemrana, Rajasthan; 1.8 mn at Vadodara, Gujarat; and 1.8 mn at Chittoor, AP. Its newest plant will hit full capacity in three phases.
      Hero’s Partnership With Harley Davidson
      The next five years will also hold significance to its partnership with American bike icon Harley Davidson as well after the latter quit independent operations in India last year. Higher pricing, wrong product portfolio and marketing strategy adopted by Harley were a few reasons cited by many for the company’s slow sales in the country which made it call quits.
      As part of this non-equity partnership with Harley Davidson, Hero MotoCorp will sell and develop models under the former’s brand name in India. Harley even released a new AD film last month titled “H-D India Forever” which assured its customers of its presence in the country in future as well.
      Source More

    • 238 Shares179 Views

      in Electric Cars

      MG To Launch New Electric Car Under Rs 20 L – Working On Battery Tech For 500 kms Range

      by

      MG Marvel at Delhi Auto Expo. Image for reference.
      MG Motor is currently chalking out plans to develop a battery assembly facility in India

      With growing advancement in electric vehicle (EV) technology in India, automobile manufacturers are racing towards development of cost-effective and economical electric mobility. At this point in time, such options are very limited in the Indian market, especially in the passenger vehicle segment.
      With Nexon EV being the most economical of the limited options, it has unsurprisingly led the sales volume chart in EV segment. However, manufacturers are looking to build more affordable models in the coming future with improved accessibility. Recently, MG Motor has revealed their plans to introduce an EV that would cost less than Rs 20 lakh.
      This development has been confirmed by Rajeev Chaba, President and Managing Director, MG Motor India, in an interaction with Economic Times. He further informed that this new electric car will be coming out sometime next year and the company has started working on building a battery assembly facility in the country which could bring down the cost of batteries.
      New Battery Assembly Facility in India
      Currently, details of this facility are being worked on which will provide batteries for the upcoming EV. As per an initial estimate, it will require an investment of around Rs 4,000 crore. This new facility will also help MG develop a much improved battery technology that can deliver a single-charge range of around 500 km.
      Existing MG ZS Electric
      This new technology is expected to feature in production-spec electric cars in 18 months. Furthermore, it has been reported that this technology is currently being evaluated under various climate conditions and terrains.
      As per directives and guidelines set by the government of India, electric mobility seems to be future of the automotive industry in the country. This fact was acknowledged by Chaba during the interaction.
      This development comes at a time when Tesla Inc. has just announced its entry in India with its headquarter set up in Bangalore. As per reports, the Karnataka Government has allotted few acres of land to the American company in Tumkur, on the outskirts of Bengaluru to set up a R&D facility.
      New MG Electric Car
      MG Motor currently has only one electric car offering in the form of ZS EV which registered sales for 1,142 units in 2020. This accounts for 25 percent of total electric vehicles sold in India last year. The company intends to double this volume to around 2,500 units in 2021. Chaba further added that MG has received over 200 bookings for the electric crossover in December 2020. ZS EV is locally assembled in India with components brought in as CKD units.
      ZS EV is powered by a 44.5kWh lithium-ion battery pack paired to an electric motor which produces an output of 143 PS and 353 Nm of peak torque. It offers a claimed range of 340 km at a single charge. Its current prices start at Rs. 20.88 lakh for the base trim and go up to Rs. 23.58 lakh for the fully loaded trim (both prices are ex-showroom).
      It is not clear what this new sub Rs 20 lakh car from MG will be. It could be a new variant of the ZS electric itself, which is already on sale in India. With advanced battery tech, higher localization it is quite possible MG manages to increase the range of their ZS EV, and at the same time reduce its cost.
      Source More

    • 163 Shares159 Views

      in Bike

      2021 Bajaj Pulsar 220F New Model Reaches Dealer Showroom – First Look Walkaround

      by

      2021 Bajaj Pulsar 220F
      Along with adding new features to the Pulsar 220F, Bajaj has also increased prices by Rs 2,003

      A popular dual-purpose, performance oriented commuter bike, Bajaj Pulsar 220F is now available in its 2021 iteration. The updated model has started arriving at showrooms and is available for test rides. Pulsar 220F new model comes with new features and improved engine performance.
      Bajaj Pulsar 220F 2021 new features
      One of the key updates is the repositioning of the odometer wire. As compared to the earlier model that had the odometer wire connected to the front wheel, the new model has the wire connected to the rear wheel. This is part of the digital upgrade of the motorcycle, which also includes an updated instrument console.
      The speedometer is placed at the left whereas the info screen is on the right. It displays a range of information such as trip meter, fuel economy per trip and distance to empty. The only things that seem to be lacking is a gear indicator and clock. These weren’t available in the earlier model either.
      Bajaj Pulsar 220F 2021 engine
      Updated Pulsar 220F will continue using the same 220 cc DTS-i BS6, oil-cooled engine that is capable of delivering 20.4 ps of max power and 18.55 Nm of max torque. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. Below is the detailed walkaround video by MRD Vlogs.
      [embedded content]
      However, based on test rides by YouTuber MRD Vlogs, performance and acceleration have been improved on the new model. The engine also seems smoother, as compared to the existing model. It is possible that the engine may have been fine-tuned to deliver improved performance.
      As shown in the test ride video, the bike accelerates from 0 to 70 kmph in just around 4-5 seconds.  It also achieves a top speed of 112 kmph in a seemingly effortless manner.
      Bajaj Pulsar 220F 2021 design and styling
      There are no major changes in the design and styling of updated 220F. It continues with its sporty profile, as is evident in its projector headlamps, aerodynamic semi-fairing, split seats, sleek LED tail lamp, laser edged graphics, split rear grab rails, upswept silencer with deep carbon black wrapping, and colour coded alloy wheel decals. Colour options of Back Blue and Black Red are also the same as earlier.
      2021 Bajaj Pulsar 220F
      Apart from the new features and enhanced engine performance, all other features and cycle parts are the same as earlier. The bike utilizes telescopic front suspension with anti-friction brush and 5-way adjustable Nitrox shock absorber at the rear. Braking duties are performed by 280 mm disc at the front and 230 mm disc at the rear.
      With the updates, Bajaj Pulsar 220F new 2021 model could become pricier by around Rs 2k. The current model is available at a starting price of Rs 1.25 lakh (ex-showroom, New Delhi). More

    • 188 Shares169 Views

      in Bike

      2021 Royal Enfield Classic 650 cc Twin Spied With New Gen 350 – Gets Alloys

      by

      Royal Enfield Classic 650cc Twin
      The Royal Enfield Classic has an unassailable lead in the Indian medium displacement motorcycle segment and why not augment it with a 650 cc variant?

      If you are a Royal Enfield fan, there is a lot to be cheerful about in 2021 as the retro classic brand is gearing up for a new product launches in regular intervals. Royal Enfield has plans to launch one new motorcycle every 4 months in India.
      While things are going to start with model year refreshes and minor updates, quite a few next-generation thumpers are in the pipeline for later this year. We all know the new 650 cc cruiser is on its way but RE has surprised by testing another twin-cylinder prototype that we believe to be the Classic 650!
      2021 Royal Enfield Classic 650 spied
      A recent spyshot of accessorized 650 cruiser was actually wrongly identified. The prototype featured a conventional roadster riding posture compared to the previously spied cruiser test mule‘s feet-forward stance. Not just that, the accessorized test mule also featured considerably higher seat height.
      We have come across a new spy shot of the mystery Royal Enfield 650 roadster in question, parked alongside a new gen Classic 350 prototype. The image is credit to automotive enthusiast Ganesan.
      Royal Enfield Classic 650cc Twin with new gen Classic 350. Footpegs positioning on both motorcycles is similar. Pillion seat is larger as compared to the 650cc cruiser spied earlier.
      As you can see, they both share quite a lot in common in terms of basic design elements – circular headlamps, almond shaped fuel tank, split seats and roughly same seat height – and ergonomics. The motorcycle features black alloy wheels, front and rear discs, twin exhaust pipes, and an eccentrically mounted circular instrument dial.
      Royal Enfield KX650 Cruiser with footpegs in the front, lower seat height and smaller pillion seat
      Though the engine of the 650cc Classic is seen in black, it is likely that it is just a cover. As the spy shot shows that the cover is broken at one point, and one can clearly see the chrome / silver engine underneath.
      Why Classic 650 when you already have Interceptor 650?
      The Royal Enfield Classic 650 would be an ideal spiritual successor to the now defunct 500 cc variant which had a sizeable fan following. More powerful and refined twin-cylinder engine, the trademark retro design and a nameplate with huge brand recall make for a compelling combo.
      Royal Enfield KX650 Cruiser with footpegs in the front, lower seat height and smaller pillion seat
      To give you a perspective, more than half of RE’s sales volume is accounted for by the Classic 350; which is at the end of its life cycle and this shows how strong the Classic brand is. So, why not augment it with a 650 variant?
      While the Interceptor 650 already covers the medium displacement roadster niche for RE, the company appears to be confident that there is sufficient difference in the appeal of the Classic 650 to have it alongside. The inverted telescopic fork, split seats with removable pillion unit and an old-school body-coloured headlamp housing distance the Royal Enfield Classic 650 from its sibling.
      Powertrain
      In its existing state of tune, the motor produces 47 hp and 52 Nm of torque and is mated to a 6-speed transmission. We may see a minor tweak to the gear ratios to suite the Royal Enfield Classic 650’s relaxed mile-munching nature. With more variants being spun off the same platform, RE would be able to leverage the economies of scale to come up with very competitive pricing for its upcoming products. More

    • 125 Shares99 Views

      in Bike

      Yamaha F-155 Is A R15 Engine Powered Future Scooter Concept

      by

      Yamaha F155 Scooter Concept
      An all new sport-scooter concept has just made its debut in Vietnam

      At the recent launch event of Exciter 155 VVA in Vietnam, Yamaha surprised everyone by unveiling the F-155 moped concept. The prototype features a slick design with a fine blend of smooth curves and sharp cuts and grooves.
      Yamaha F-155 concept design and features
      Even though it may not make it to the streets anytime soon, Yamaha F-155 concept has a highly captivating design that appeals to folks who want to flaunt their rides. It has been developed by Yamaha Japan and rumour mills are abuzz that the company has invested around USD 100,000 to develop this prototype.
      It is likely that the prototype’s design will work as the primary inspiration for developing the next-generation Exciter 155. Borrowing several design elements as well as components from R15, F-155 concept has a sharp and aggressive front fascia.
      Some key features include functional ram air intake, MotoGP inspired winglets, dual-LED headlamps, and LED turn indicators. The prototype also blends in a minimalistic character, as is evident in the inconspicuous looking handlebar and instrument cluster.
      Yamaha F155 Scooter Concept
      Several ducts and vents have been neatly added to the sides, something that enhances the moped’s sporty profile. At the rear, the tri-striped LED taillight and cowl appear to be inspired from R1.
      Other features that give Yamaha F-155 concept its unique character include the twin underbelly exhaust system and zippy seat design. It also gets several contrasting orange coloured accents that look stunning against the matte grey base colour. These can be seen on the front cowl, fairing, seat, chassis and alloy wheels.
      Yamaha F-155 concept specs
      Yamaha F-155 concept engine details have not been revealed, but it is likely to be using the same 155cc liquid cooled engine as that of new Exciter 155 VVA. The prototype utilizes a delta box frame and is equipped with aluminium swingarm. With the compact delta box frame, the engine appears to be bigger and adds to the bike’s dominating profile.
      [embedded content]
      Talking about suspension, Yamaha F-155 concept has USD forks at the front and a monoshock unit at the rear. Braking system comprises two pot calliper at the front and single pot calliper at the rear.
      Yamaha F-155 concept has got everyone’s attention, but it is unlikely to make it to production stage. Even if it does, several of its features may have to be changed or removed to suit practical needs in the real world. The only possibility is that this concept will be used as a design benchmark to develop the next-generation of Yamaha motorcycles such as Exciter, Sniper and Y15ZR.

      Source 1, Source 2 More