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      in Bike

      Triumph Trident 660cc Roadster Debuts – India Launch 2021 As CKD

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      2021 Triumph Trident
      The Triumph Trident is powered by a 660 cc three-cylinder engine which benefits from ride-by-wire technology

      Triumph Motorcycles has entered the volume-rich affordable middle-weight naked motorcycle territory with its neo-classic Trident. The latest product from the British marque pays tribute to the original Trident of 1968 which kick started the three-cylinder saga. Positioned below the Street Triple, the roadster is not the most affordable member of Triumph’s three-cylinder family.
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      Triumph Trident
      The 2021 Triumph Trident adopts a minimal design characterized by a classic fuel tank with knee pads, a stubby cantilevered tailpiece, circular LED headlamp and compact overall dimensions. The British middle-weight sportbike brings to table a classic flavor compared to its flashy Japanese rivals such as the Kawasaki Z650, Yamaha MT-O7 and Honda CB650R.
      2021 Triumph Trident
      Engine
      Triumph Trident is powered by a 660 cc, liquid-cooled, three-cylinder engine which incorporates 67 new components. Triumph says that the three-cylinder configuration combines the strong low-end torque of two-cylinder units and a spirited top-end of four-cylinder units.

      The engine produces 81 hp at 10,250 rpm and 64 Nm of torque (90% of which is available across most of the rev range) at 6,250 rpm. The motor is also available in a 47 hp / 59 Nm version for the European A2 license category and in a 54 hp / 59 Nm avatar for the Australian LAMS category. A slip and assist clutch pairs the motor with a 6-speed transmission.
      Chassis
      The Triumph Trident is underpinned by a steel tubular frame which is equipped with an aluminium swing-arm, Showa inverted front forks, Showa rear monoshock with preload adjust and 17-inch alloy wheels. Enhancing the handling package are is the factory fitted set of Michelin Road 5 tyres that measure 120/70-R17 (front) and 180/55-R17 (rear).

      Braking is taken care of by a pair of 310 mm front discs with Nissin two-piston sliding calipers and a disc at the rear with Nissin single-piston caliper. Of course, a dual-channel ABS is a standard fitment.
      Equipment
      The Triumph Trident is positioned as a premium offering in its segment. In addition to top-shelf suspension and braking hardware, the motorcycle comes equipped with a colour TFT screen along with a white-on-black LCD display, full LED lighting (headlamp, tail lamp and blinkers), adjustable traction control, ride-by-wire, road and rain riding modes, and so on.

      Launch and colours
      The most affordable triple-cylinder Triumph motorcycle will hit the dealerships in the UK in early 2021 before reaching our market via CKD route from Thailand. It will be available in four colour themes namely Silver Ice and Diablo Red, Matt Jet Black and Matt Silver Ice, Crystal White and Sapphire Black.
      The Triumph Trident will be offered with 2 year / unlimited km warranty and a range of 45 accessories that were developed alongside the bike. Fully accessorized Trident can be seen in the photos below. More

    • 188 Shares129 Views

      RE Meteor 350 Launch Invite Teases Exhaust Sound – New Thump Arrives On 6th Nov

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      Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Teaser
      Royal Enfield Meteor 350 will replace the now discontinued Thunderbird 350 and 350X from the brand’s product profile

      After months of delay Royal Enfield has finally revealed the date in which its upcoming cruiser bike is going to launch. The upcoming retro-classic cruiser Meteor 350 will, at last, be launched on November 6.
      New RE Meteor 350 will sport retro-classic elements such as circular halogen headlamp, LED DRLs, round turn indicators, LED tail lamps, forward-set footpegs and raised handlebars. From the brochures it was revealed that the upcoming retro cruiser will be offered in three variants- Fireball, Stellar and Supernova. Below is the latest teaser, which also reveals the thump / exhaust sound of the Meteor 350.
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      Features
      Meteor 350 has spotted testing on roads on multiple occasions prior to this for well over a year now. Specifications have been leaked on the internet. Features addition on this bike includes Tripper Navigation which is assumed to be a Bluetooth-enabled GPS system.
      This tech is offered as standard across the range and will come in handy in long-distance touring. It also comes equipped with a USB charging port which enables the riders to charge their phones and action cameras, thus becoming useful as a tourer. Other features on offer are a semi-digital instrument cluster, a TFT screen that reads out important details of trip metre, service reminder, odometer, a ring of LED DRLs around the headlamp and more.
      The mid-spec variant Stellar variant comes with an additional backrest whereas the top-spec Supernova will come with premium leather seats and a windscreen. It will also be offered with machine-finished alloy wheels. The bike will be made available in seven colours namely- Fireball Yellow, Fireball Red, Stellar Red Metallic, Stellar Black Matte, Stellar Blue Metallic, Supernova Brown, and Supernova Blue.
      Powertrain & Transmission
      Coming to its most critical addition, the Meteor 350 will be powered by an all-new 349cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine which kicks out 20.5hp and 27Nm of peak torque. This is 0.4 bhp more and 1 Nm less than the current generation 346cc engine.
      This will be paired with a newly developed 5-speed gearbox which is expected to offer far smoother shifts. It will also employ a new clutch with less number of linkages and components – resulting in a longer life.
      Royal Enfield Meteor will be the first bike which will be underpinned by the all-new ‘J’ platform. It is expected to be priced between Rs 1.60-1.80 lakh (ex-showroom) and will directly lock horns with recently launched Honda H’Ness CB 350. It will replace the outgoing Thunderbird 350 from Royal Enfield’s portfolio. More

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      Hero And Harley Davidson Partnership Official – Sales, Service, New Launches

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      Hero will take care of Harley Motorcycle Sales and Service in India
      Hero MotoCorp will develop and sell Harley Davidson branded premium motorcycles

      Harley Davidson withdrew its official presence in India last month only to kickstart an all-new innings, this time in partnership with Hero Motocorp. News about the American cruiser specialist scouting for a suitable partner in India has been circulating for a while now with Hero Motocorp and Classic Legends (Jawa’s parent company) touted as front runners. Now, it is official.
      Harley Davidson partners with Hero MotoCorp
      Harley Davidson has announced that it has entered into distribution and licensing agreement with Hero MotoCorp as a part of its Rewire strategy. As a part of the distribution agreement, Hero MotoCorp will be responsible for selling and service Harley Davidson motorcycles through the American marque’s existing network of outlets.
      Hero’s well established dealership network would also be used to expand Harley’s market coverage. In addition to motorcycles, the Indian partner will also take care of retailing HD parts, accessories, general merchandise, riding gears and apparels.
      Hero to develop Harley motorcycles
      The most interesting aspect of the partnership is the licensing agreement according to which Hero MotoCorp will develop and sell a range of premium motorcycles under the Harley Davidson brand name. No further details about this arrangement have been revealed as of now.
      Harley servicing will also be done by Hero dealers.
      Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest two wheeler maker in terms of volume, has been aspiring to establish a strong presence in the medium displacement motorcycle segment. The company’s expertise lies in highly fuel efficient small displacement commuter motorcycles and scooters.
      Hero’s premium motorcycle ambitions did not progress beyond a handful of design concepts. The acquisition of American sportsbike brand EBR turned out to be unfruitful for both the entities.
      Harley Davidson’s backing would come as a huge boost for Hero’s aspirations. In turn, the cruiser brand will benefit massively from Hero’s unparalleled cost structure and distribution network in India.
      The made-in-India medium displacement Harley Davidson’s are expected to be pitted directly against the Royal Enfield range which has been enjoying near monopoly in the segment. Hero is also likely to export the entry-level Harley Davidson motorcycles to several markets.
      Timeline
      It is a bit too early to talk about the product segments and timelines as of now. If we were to take a guess, the first product to born from the Hero-Harley partnership would be a motorcycle with a displacement between 350 to 500 cc.
      The Harley Davidson – Hero MotoCorp partnership is a great news for the Indian motorcycle enthusiasts. Owners of existing Harley Davidson motorcycles will be able to get service as well as spares at Harley Davidson dealerships as well as at Hero dealerships. More

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      Honda CB350 is Smooth, No Vibrations – First Owner Test Ride Review

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      Honda CB350 First Owner Review
      Honda H’Ness CB350 is the third BS6 compliant product to be retailed through Big Wing dealerships

      Honda Two-wheelers India has started dispatching the recently launched H’Ness CB350. The retro classic motorcycle has been receiving appreciation from all quarters since its reveal last month. Now, the first batch of CB350 motorcycles have been delivered to respective owners.
      On the occasion of delivering the first batch of CB350 motorcycles to its respective owners, Honda conducted a special ceremony at their Big Wing dealership in Gurgaon, Haryana. All the owners were called at the same time, and were given keys at the same time.
      Honda CB350 First Batch Delivery. Image – Abhinav Bhatt
      A total of 17 units of Honda CB350 were delivered from the dealership. Abhinav Bhatt’s uncle is one of the 17 lucky owners, who has been allotted the first batch of new Honda CB350 in India.
      But it is Abhinav who has taken delivery. He plans to keep the CB350 with him for the next few days, before giving it to his uncle, who is the actual owner of the motorcycle. Immediately after taking delivery, he has created first ride impression video of Honda CB350, and posted the same on his channel. This is in fact the first ever ride review of the new Honda CB350, and can be watched below.
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      In the video, Abhinav has given a detailed first review of Honda CB350. He talks in detail about how the motorcycle performs in traffic situations, how is the suspension and ride quality, engine vibrations, seat comfort, rear view mirror visibility, gear shift smoothness, exhaust sound while riding, and a lot more things.
      In his Honda CB350 review, Abhinav says that this is a really smooth motorcycle, and has no vibrations at all. Will this Honda motorcycle finally end the dominance of Royal Enfield in the segment? Only time will tell.
      Price
      Available across two variants- DLX and DLX Pro, the CB350 is offered at a price of Rs 1.85 lakh and Rs 1.90 lakh for respective variants (both prices are ex-showroom). On road price in Gurgaon is about Rs 2.18 lakhs.
      Variants, Colours on offer
      It is retailed through Honda’s Big Wing dealership chain and is currently the third BS6 model in the premium dealership’s network. The CB350 is offered in a total of six colours- three mono-tone colours for the DLX trim and three dual-tone colours for DLX Pro trim.
      Single-tone colours include Pearl Night Star Black, Precious Red Metallic and Matte Marshal Green Metallic. Whereas dual-tone paint schemes include Athletic Blue Metallic with Virtuous White, Pearl Night Star Black with Spear Silver Metallic and Mat Steel Black Metallic with Mat Massive Grey Metal.
      Design
      In terms of design, H’Ness CB350 is a classic cruiser with retro design elements such as round headlamps, Y-shaped spoke alloy wheels and machined fins. Adding a retro touch to modern design are chrome-plated components such as fenders, exhaust and mirrors and a wider rear section tyre.
      Its design has been largely inspired by older retro CB motorcycles. It has taken Honda two years to develop this motorcycle and has been made in India with over 90 percent localisation.
      Features
      Coming to its equipment list, it has a healthy list of features up its sleeve which include a semi-digital instrument panel, Honda Smartphone Voice Control System (HSVC) and Honda Selectable Torque Control System.
      It also comes with modern functionalities such as LED headlamps and Bluetooth-enabled navigation, telephony and music control. The digital MID shows information such as a gear position indicator, two trip meters and required tell-tale lights.
      Mechanical Details
      When it comes to powertrain, it is powered by a 348cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine that pushes out 21bhp and 30Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch which ensures smoother gear shifts.
      Suspension duties rest on telescopic forks at front and twin hydraulic shock absorbers at rear. Anchoring is taken care of by 310mm disc brake at front and 240mm disc at rear further assisted by dual-channel ABS.
      Honda H’Ness CB350 is a proper rival to Royal Enfield Classic 350 and will also compete with the upcoming Meteor 350. It had been in the making for a long time, and finally it is now on our roads. More

    • 188 Shares199 Views

      in Electric Cars

      Hummer Electric Global Debut – Launch In 2021 At $ 112k (Approx Rs 83 L)

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      Hummer Electric
      After teasing for months, GMC has finally taken wraps off its all new Hummer electric pickup truck today

      After a long wait, GM has finally launched the much awaited Hummer electric Pick-up. This happens to be one of its kind beast which will have some unparalleled offroading capability along with the benefits of being an EV. Here is the first look TVC.
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      Some Facts & Figures
      The new Hummer EV comes along with performance figures, which clearly showcase that it is a next generation vehicle. Under the hood, well there is no engine for obvious reasons, but there are 3 electric motors which help to dish out 1,000 hp and 11,500 lb ft (15,600 Nm) of max torque.
      GMC Hummer Electric
      The power developed is enough for the pick-up to do a 0-60 mph in less than 3 seconds (equivalent of 0-100 kmph). The battery pack supports 800 volt fast charging and can add a range of 100 miles (160 kms) in just 10 minutes. As per GM, the overall range of the Hummer EV happens to be 350 miles+, which roughly translates into more than 560 kms!
      Design Highlights
      The Hummer EV looks like an all new futuristic vehicle which you would expect to come across in a Sci-Fi flick. However, the 6-slat grille from the fossil-fuel powered model adds a bit of nostalgic touch.

      Overall, the Hummer looks bold, massive, intimidating and most importantly, unlike anything we have come across in the recent past. The grille which we talked about too has been done innovatively as it is now basically Hummer badging embedded in an LED strip.
      GMC Hummer Electric
      Other highlight in the design happens to be its infinity roof, which can basically provide a complete open-air experience. The Hummer EV rides on massive 35-inch tyres, which can further be upgraded to upto 37-inch units (after-market). It also gets a 4-wheel steering system, which helps with manoeuvrability and a reduced turning radius.
      Additionally, GM has added an adaptive air suspension which helps the Hummer to raise its height by 6-inches and make it even more off-road friendly than it already is. GM calls this function as ‘Extract Mode’. Talking about modes, GM has also included a Crab Mode, which as the name suggests, will be good to crawl across difficult off-roading terrain.

      The Hummer EV is a fully loaded product in terms of tech updates as well. It gets 18-camera views for improved understanding of its surroundings, including feeds from under the belly. The Super Cruise functionality helps with autonomous changing of lanes on compatible roads.
      Price and Variants
      Production of the Hummer EV will start later in 2021. Prices of the Hummer will commence at the $112,595 mark (around Rs 83 lakh, excluding taxes). This is the top of the line variant. Bookings are now open at $100.
      Lower priced variants are planned for launch in 2022, 2023 and 2024. In 2022, Hummer EV 3X will be launched with 800 hp / 12,880 Nm motor at price of $99,995. Range will be down to 300+ miles (483+ km). In 2023, Hummer EV 2X will be launched for $89,995. This is rated to deliver 625 hp / 10,033 Nm. Range will be same as Hummer 3x. And finally, in 2024, base model, Hummer EV will launch at $79,995. It will have same motors as the Hummer 2x, but range will be lower at 250+ miles (402+ km). More

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      TVS Ntorq Avengers Marvel Edition Launch – Iron Man, Black Panther, Captain America

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      TVS Ntorq Avengers Marvel Iron Man Edition
      Apart from the superhero-inspired liveries, there are no other changes to the premium scooter

      Just as expected, it is raining special edition variants in both two- and four-wheeler segments, all aiming to take full advantage of the festive season rush. We have seen Hero and Bajaj introducing new variants of its existing models, and now, TVS has joined the fray. The TVS Ntorq Avengers edition scooter with liveries commemorating Iron Man, Captain America and Black Panther have been spied ahead of their office launch later today.
      TVS Ntorq Avengers Super Squad Edition
      Called the Super Squad Edition, the special variants sport Avenger branding at strategic locations like on the front apron and side panels. The Iron Man edition is finished in matte red with golden accents to mimic the superhero’s flying suit. Below is the official teaser video.

      The Captain America livery, as the name suggests, have the depiction of the famous shield on the side panels of the front apron. This variant is liveried in matching blue, white and red.
      There is also a Black Panther Super Soldier edition with black and purpose colour dual-tone colour theme. It remains to be seen if the TVS Ntorq Avengers edition will be available more super-hero-inspired liveries or not.
      TVS Ntorq Avengers Marvel Black Panther Edition
      Equipment
      The TVS Ntorq Avengers Super Squad editions appear to be based on the Race Edition which is equipped with LED headlamps as a standard fitment in addition to 12-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, petal front disc brake, 3D Ntorq logo on the engine cover, split grab rails, USB charger, fully digital instrument console with 60 functions including Bluetooth connectivity, and so on.
      TVS Ntorq Avengers Marvel Captain America Edition
      Specifications
      Powering the TVS Ntorq Avengers edition is the same 124.8 cc air-cooled, fuel-injected mill that caters to the regular variant. Mated to a CVT, the motor delivers 9.25 hp and 10.5 Nm of torque. Suspension system comprises telescopic front forks and rear shock absorbed with hydraulic dampers. A 220 mm disc at the front and a 130 mm rear drum form the braking system.
      The TVS Ntorq Race Edition is priced at INR 75,365 (ex-showroom, Delhi). Expect the Avengers Super Squad edition to be dearer by a few thousand rupees when it hits the showrooms later this month.
      Rivals
      The TVS Ntorq, with its 125 cc engine, sharp styling and plethora of features, targets the young urban audience. The premium automatic scooter locks horns with the likes of Hero Maestro 125 which recently spawned Stealth edition, Aprilia Storm 125, Yamaha RayZR 125 and Honda Grazia.
      Two wheeler sales in general have been witnessing impressive recovery post lockdown. The pent up demand due to inactivity in the previous months, new-found inclination to avoid public transportation and positive sentiment around festive season combined together to give the auto industry a much needed shot in the arm. More

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      Hero Splendor+ Black Accent Edition Launched – 4 New Colours

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      After launching special editions of their scooter range, Hero has now launched special edition of their best selling motorcycle
      Hero Splendor+ Black Accent Edition

      For this festive season, India’s best selling motorcycle, the Hero Splendor Plus, will be available in a special Black and Accent edition. Launched at INR 64,470 (ex-showroom, Delhi, excluding the decal kit), the special edition motorcycle can be specified with one of four livery options that were designed by customers as a part of Hero CoLabs initiative.
      Hero Splendor Plus Black and Accent Edition
      The special edition variant offers the customer the option of selection of the four liveries at the time of purchase. Below are the prices of all Splendor+ variants on offer.
      Hero Splendor+ Prices Oct 2020
      As the name suggests, the Black and Accent Edition has black as base colour with interesting decals. Customers can also opt for the plain black theme without any decals.
      It is to be noted that the 3D Hero logo is an optional accessory. The loudest decals of the lot is the Firefly Golden one which covers most of the fuel tank area, side panels, tailpiece and bikini fairing.
      Hero Splendor+ Black Accent Edition
      The Bumblebee Yellow decal option adopts a minimal approach with thin lines at strategic places. The Beetle Red and white option strikes a balance between the other two and adds a sporty touch.
      The decals are priced at INR 899 over the special edition motorcycle’s base price. For INR 1,399, the customers can purchase the decals, rim tapes and the Hero 3D logo kit.
      All these liveries were the winning entries of the contest which saw participation from over 10,000 people from across the country. The company has stated that more such customer-driven design exercises will be carried out in the future.
      Hero Splendor+ Black Accent Edition
      The Hero Splendor Plus Black and Accent edition features black finished alloy wheels, engine and chain cover. There are no other visual or mechanical changes to the commuter motorcycle.
      Specifications at a glance
      The most popular commuter motorcycle in the country is powered by a BS6-compliant version of the time-proven 97.2 cc air-cooled engine which is paired with a 4-speed gearbox. The power and torque figures stand at 7.9 hp and 8.05 Nm respectively.
      Hero Splendor+ Black Accent Edition
      The fuel-injected motor is available with self-start and i3S start/stop technology. The Hero Splendor Plus Black and Accent edition comes equipped with 18-inch black alloy wheels which are shod with 80/100-18 tubeless tyres. A 130 mm drum at each end takes care of braking. More

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      in Electric Cars

      2021 Renault Kwid Electric Debuts As Dacia Spring EV – 295 kms Drive Range

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      What will be launched in India as the Renault Kwid electric car, has been globally unveiled as the new Dacia Spring EV today
      2021 Renault Kwid Electric

      The Dacia Spring Electric small car will be launched in Europe through car sharing service first, and retail sales for private customers will begin later in 2021.
      The Dacia Spring, essentially the fully electric European-spec Renault Kwid, has been unveiled at Renault EWays event. The French automaker describes it as the most affordable electric vehicle in the old continent. The micro-crossover is expected to become the best selling Dacia in due course.

      Dacia Spring EV / 2021 Renault Kwid Electric
      The Dacia Spring carries forward the Renault Kwid’s basic design but incorporates sportier elements. The Dacia badge sits on a revised front grille which also houses sleek LED DRls. Faux skid plates, low-mounted headlamps, high ground clearance gives the compact car a crossover appeal.
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      The Dacia Spring EV is presented in the car sharing version at the Renault EWays event. Series production model will be ready for Europe next year. The profile is identical to the India-spec Renault Kwid while the rear fascia receives revised LED taillights and a new bumper with prominent silver skid plates.

      Powertrain
      The Dacia Spring EV is powered by an electric motor which is rated at 33 kW and 125 Nm of torque. The 28.6 kWh battery is claimed to offer 225 km of range as per WLTP driving cycle. As per WLTP City cycle, the vehicle has a claimed range of 295 km.
      Using the Wallbox charger, the battery can be fully charged in 4 hours and 27 minutes. The optional DC fast charging cable will allow you to charge 80% of the battery in 50 minutes using a fast charging column. The car can also be charged using domestic socket.

      Features
      The Dacia Spring EV receives a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 3.5-inch color MID, assisted and camera parking, power windows and remote lock. It also gets LED headlights and 14-inch alloy wheels.

      Launch Timeline
      The Dacia Spring will be available first through car sharing services across Europe from early 2021 with Zity being one of the launch partners. The private customers will be able to book their cars in summer 2021 with deliveries starting in spring 2021. There will also be a cargo version with 800 liters (with a payload capacity of 365 kg) of storage volume for zero emission last mile delivery.

      Coming to India?
      With the popularity of electric vehicles steadily increasing in India, the Renault Kwid EV is likely to be introduced in our market a few months after its European debut. The car will compete with the likes of Mahindra eKUV100, Maruti WagonR EV, new Citroen EV, Tata HBX EV in the domestic market. Expect price to be in the Rs 8-10 lakh range. More