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      Kawasaki 175cc Motorcycle India Launch In 2021 – Price Rs 1.25 L Expected

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      Kawasaki W175 is already on sale in other Asian markets and will serve as the most affordable retro-style classic motorcycle in India

      Retro-style classic motorcycles have always been liked by a certain section of the biking community. In recent times, these bikes have been in demand for the masses as well. With Royal Enfield, Jawa, Benelli and now Honda, in the market with their respective motorcycles, any new entrant will find it difficult to make a place for itself in this segment.
      However, as per latest reports, Kawasaki is expected to enter this space with its entry-level W175 next year. W175 is set to be launched in India in the first quarter of 2021 (Jan to Apr 2021 period). It is already on sale in other Asian markets such as Thailand and Indonesia.
      Design
      As seen from the images, Kawasaki 175cc Motorcycle is a retro-styled bike with a simplistic design approach. It gets pure classic styling with round headlamp, spoked wheels which are wrapped around by tube tyres and a peashooter muffler. It is offered with a conventional round analogue instrument cluster which reads out information from the tripmeter, speedometer and odometer.
      At the rear it gets similar turn indicators with squared off tail light. Overall, the layout seems quite basic yet very neat and simple thanks to the blacked out components such as the engine, tail pipe and suspension springs. It gets a single-piece seat with easy contours and good cushioning. Its international spec model weighs just 126 kg, however, this figure is set to increase when it has to meet all the mandatory safety and emission requirements in our country.

      Powertrain
      Coming to its powertrain, the W175 draws its power from a 177cc single-cylinder air-cooled SOHC motor which produces a modest output of 13bhp and 13.2Nm of peak torque. However, this unit in its international spec is in carburetted form. Therefore, output figures might slightly alter if it comes to India where BS6 emission norms and fuel injection are a certainty. This unit comes mated to a 5-speed gearbox and also gets a balancer shaft to help reduce vibrations.
      Dynamics
      The bike is built on a semi-double-cradle frame with a simple box-section swingarm. Suspension duties are carried out by conventional telescopic forks at front with normal rubber stockings and a twin shock setup at rear. Anchoring duties depend on 220mm disc at front and 110mm drum at rear. India-spec model will also be equipped with ABS although only single-channel ABS is expected to be on offer.
      Estimated Price
      Kawasaki W175 is said to be more than 90 percent localised if and when it comes to India. This will make W175 the second bike in the Japanese manufacturer’s portfolio to be engineered within the company’s R&D setup in India. The first localised bike being Ninja 300 which was launched in 2018.
      Upon its launch, it will be deemed as a more affordable motorcycle in comparison to Royal Enfield Classic 350, Jawa and Honda H’Ness CB350. It is expected to be offered at a price of Rs 1.20-1.40 lakh (ex-showroom, India). It will not only be the smallest engine powered Kawasaki road bike to co on sale in India, but will also be the cheapest and most localized.
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      New Royal Enfield Classic 350 Delayed To 2021 – 250cc Project Cancelled

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      The new Royal Enfield Classic 350 will be a very important volume for the brand’s endeavour to neutralize rising competition
      Image – Hriday

      Royal Enfield was originally supposed to enter into the BS6 era with all guns blazing. On test since 2018, the new gen Classic 350 as well as the Meteor 350 were originally planned for launch by March 2020. Its Oct 2020, and none of these motorcycles have been launched yet.
      Delays in product development and capacity expansion has forced the company to take interim measures and introduce updated versions of its older models. Then the pandemic dealt yet another serious blow that has pushed the launch timeline even further.
      New Royal Enfield Classic 350 launch delayed
      The Royal Enfield Meteor 350, the Thunderbird replacement, is not here in time to take full advantage of the festive season. ET reports that the new Royal Enfield Classic 350 will likely be delayed beyond April 2021. This would make volume recovery in the medium term more challenging than anticipated.
      Royal Enfield’s original plan was to introduce one new product every quarter of this financial year and we have already entered the third quarter and nothing happened except multiple leaks of the Meteor 350. With competition stepping up, it is important for the medium-displacement specialist to get its new Classic 350 in the market at the earliest.
      New Gen Royal Enfield Classic 350 has been on test since 2018. Image – Vilvakumar P
      Entry level quarter liter variant axed
      ET also reports that the entry-level volume oriented 250 cc product, internally known as Project V, has been shelved as the company has decided to prioritize profit market over outright sales numbers. The target is reported to be a 25% EBIDTA margin for 50,000 units a month. The company is planning to achieve this by improving its cost structure.
      New Royal Enfield Classic 350 – Specifications
      The next generation Classic 350 will be based on the new modular J Platform that will underpin the brand’s new family of 350 cc models. The test prototypes seemed to be sporting ad-hoc body panels but one can expect the new Classic to wear old-school charm while also offering modern features like LED headlamps, digital instrument console (at least partially digital unit), new paint schemes and so on. We hope that RE retains the spoke wheels and other chrome bits to keep the nostalgia alive.
      The new generation 350 cc single-cylinder, fuel-injected engine will be shared with the soon-to-be-launched Meteor. The air-cooled motor produces 20.2 hp and 27 Nm of torque on board the Meteor. Transmission is a 5-speed unit.
      We don’t expect the motor to undergo any significant changes on board the new Classic. It is reasonable to assume that the new Royal Enfield Classic will feature front and rear disc brakes with dual-channel ABS and conventional suspension system comprising telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers. Expect prices to be in the range of Rs 1.6 lakhs to Rs 2 lakhs, ex-sh.
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      in Electric Cars

      Mercedes EQC Electric SUV India Launch Price Rs 99.3 Lakh

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      Mercedes-Benz India had showcased the all-electric EQC luxury SUV at Auto Expo 2020

      The Indian automotive industry is actively focusing on all-electric and electrified forms of powertrains across a wide price segment. In the ‘relatively’ affordable category, our market has only three desirable choices: Tata Nexon EV, MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona. Mahindra Electric is almost ready with the eXUV300 (a direct rival to the Tata Nexon EV).
      On the higher end of the spectrum, luxury car manufacturers are also analysing the feasibility of their successful global EVs in India. Porsche India recently confirmed the launch of the performance-focused Taycan four-door coupe.
      Now, Mercedes-Benz India has launched the new EQC all-electric compact luxury crossover SUV at a starting price of Rs 99.3 lakhs, ex-sh. This is an introductory price, and is only valid for the first 50 buyers.
      The German automaker had showcased the same at Auto Expo 2020, held in early February. The first 50 buyers of the Mercedes EQC will also get the wall charger as well as installation free of cost.

      Introduced to the world at 2018 Paris Motor Show as the production version of Mercedes-Benz’s 2016 Generation EQ concept, the all-new EQC (internal codename: N293) is based on the current-gen GLC. It is one of 10 new ‘three-pointed star EVs’ coming to reality by 2022.
      The new Mercedes-Benz EQC has no direct rivals in India but in foreign markets, it faces strong competition from the Audi e-tron, Jaguar I-PACE and Tesla Model X. Indian EV enthusiasts have been eagerly waiting for Tesla’s arrival for quite a few years.
      Powertrain and specs
      Available only in EQC400 4MATIC (AWD) avatar, the 2020MY Mercedes-Benz EQC400 is powered by dual asynchronous electric motors (one on each axle) collectively rated at 300kW or 402bhp. Peak torque stands at 760Nm. The EV is able to do a 0-100km/h acceleration sprint in 5.1 seconds. However, top speed is limited to just 180km/h — considerably lower than most cars coming at half its price point.
      The 80kWh battery pack promises a range of 354km on a full charge as per the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Interestingly, WLTP (World harmonized Light-duty vehicles Test Procedure) rates it as 417km. Using a DC fast-charger, the electric SUV can attain 80 per cent charge from nearly empty in about 40 minutes.
      On the inside, the Mercedes-Benz EQC400 is as rich as other modern-day ICE products in the portfolio. For starters, the list includes a pair of 10.25-inch screens loaded with the latest MBUX infotainment suite. Drivers can also adjust the amount of brake re-gen via dedicated paddles behind the steering wheel. More

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      BMW G310 GS, G310 R BS6 Launched – Now Cheaper Than KTM Duke 390, ADV

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      India becomes the first country in the world where the updated BMW G310 GS and G310 R motorcycles have been launched

      New BMW G310 R is priced from Rs 2.45 lakhs and the G310 GS is priced from Rs 2.85 lakhs. This effectively makes them cheaper than rivals KTM Duke 390 KTM 390 ADV in India. All prices are ex-sh.
      Updated G310 GS complies with BS6 norms as well as Euro 5 emission standards. In the Indian market, we have the updated BS6 version of the G310 R naked streetfighter. While 310 GS will take on rivals such as KTM Adventure 390 and Royal Enfield Himalayan, the 310 R will go up against KTM 390 Duke. Below is the official TVC video.
      [embedded content]
      New G310 GS and G310 R – Key updates
      New G310 GS and G310 R are better looking than their predecessors and pack in a range of additional features. Among the key updates is an all-LED setup, comprising full-LED headlight, LED flashing turn indicators and LED DRL. The motorcycles also utilize a multi-colour concept, which has been a signature feature of BMW GS family. The MotoGP inspired colour theme comprises various colours such as metallic titanium grey, polar white, red and Kyanit blue metallic.
      A number of features have been borrowed from large BMW R 1250 GS models, for example, the aggressive front fascia, signature windscreen, and a short tail. In terms of functionality, new G310 GS has been equipped with adjustable clutch level and handbrake lever. There are four adjustment levels, which can be customized as per the hand size of the user.

      New G310 GS and G310 R engine
      The 313 cc liquid cooled, single cylinder engine has been retained, but it now complies with updated emission norms. The engine is capable of generating 34 hp of max power at 9500 rpm and 28 Nm of max torque at 7500 rpm. Transmission is a 6-speed gearbox. Top speed is rated at 143 kmph. Accelerating from 0 to 100 kmph takes 7.17 seconds.
      2020 BMW G310R and G310GS Colours
      Even though the engine is the same as earlier, it has been equipped with new features such as electronic throttle grip. This will improve throttle response and avoid engine stall at low speeds. Another addition is the self-boosting anti-hopping clutch, which improves safety and rider comfort during fast deceleration.
      As may be recalled, these entry-level motorcycles were launched to make the BMW brand name accessible to a wider audience. These have also effectively fulfilled the wish list of many auto enthusiasts with limited budgets, who had wanted to experience track-focused machines. With prices now cheaper than BS4 versions, BMW can expect to see a considerable bump in sales of these two motorcycles. More

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      Hero Maestro Stealth 125, Pleasure Platinum Black 110 – Activa Rivals Launch Soon

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      It is not surprising that the special edition version gets only minor cosmetic upgrades
      The festive season is here and the flood of special edition variants are just starting to gather momentum. Hero Motocorp is gearing up to be one of the first to introduce a special edition in the highly competitive automatic scooter segment. The Hero Pleasure Plus Platinum Black Edition and Maestro Edge Stealth have been leaked ahead its imminent launch.
      Hero Pleasure Plus Platinum Black Edition

      Launched in mid-2019 as a premium version of the popular Pleasure nameplate, the Plus variant offers bolder styling. The scooter received a slightly larger engine with electronic fuel injection earlier this year to comply with the BS6 emission norms. The leaked Hero Pleasure Plus Platinum Black Edition receives a few visual additions to justify its special edition status.
      For starers, the new version of the automatic scooter sports dual-tone black-brown seat and matching brown plastic panels and foot board. The new colour tone goes well with the special edition model’s black paint job. In addition to the default chrome applique on the front apron, the Hero Pleasure Plus Platinum Black Edition also receives chrome accents on rims, heat shied on silencer, rear view mirror housings and stalks, handlebar end weights and seat backrest mount.
      Hero Pleasure Plus Platinum Black Edition
      Hero Maestro Edge Stealth Edition
      Just like the Hero Pleasure Plus Platinum Black Edition, the new Hero Maestro Edge Stealth Edition also gets dark matte grey colour treatment. In addition, it also gets carbon black stripes on exterior, new graphics with matte grey theme, stealth chest badging, dual textured seat and diamond cut alloy wheels.
      Features and specifications
      The feature highlights of the Hero Pleasure Plus Platinum Black Edition as well as the Maestro Edge Stealth are identical to those of the regular variants. It includes alloy wheels, USB charging port, LED illumination for the undeseat storage space, tubeless tyres, side-stand indicator and integrated braking system.
      Hero Pleasure Plus Platinum Black Edition
      The special edition Hero Pleasure Plus will continue to be powered by the 110 cc air-cooled, fuel-injected engine which is delivers 8 hp and 8.7 Nm of torque. The company claims that the BS6 motor offers slightly better fuel economy and pickup compared to the old carbureted engine. It rivals the likes of Honda Activa 6G and TVS Jupiter in the 110 cc scooter segment.
      Speaking about the Hero Maestro Edge Stealth, it is powered by a 125 cc air cooled FI engine, which delivers 9 bhp of power and 10.4 Nm of torque. It rivals the likes of Honda Activa 125, Suzuki Access 125, etc in the 125cc scooter segment.
      Hero Maestro Edge 125 Stealth Edition
      Prices
      The Hero Pleasure Plus scooter is priced at INR 56,800 for the entry-level electric start, steel wheel variant. The Platinum Black special edition is likely to command a premium of around INR 2-3k over the top-end variant which is currently priced at INR 58,950. Similarly, the Maestro Edge Stealth 125 is expected to be priced about Rs 2-3k over the top variant, which is priced at Rs 71,450 for the top variant. (prices are ex-showroom, New Delhi).

      Hero Motocorp Sales
      Post lockdown, Hero Motocorp has been witnessing steady growth in sales performance. In September 2020, the company posted strong sales of 7,15,718 units in the domestic market, helped significantly by the Splendor which emerged as the best selling two wheeler in the country again. Motorcycles alone accounted for over 6.60 lakh units last month. More

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      in Electric Cars

      Top Selling Electric Cars Sep 2020 – Tata Nexon EV Leads With 61% MS

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      Electric cars have a few takers in India as of now, however, their numbers has increased over a period of time
      While electric vehicles (EVs) might still not have that kind of command of Indian roads, their strength has been on the increase in recent times. Apart from various -scooter models that have come up recently, the limited options in the passenger vehicle segment have been met with decent responses.
      Tata Nexon EV- Leader of the pack

      Among them, Tata Nexon EV has received the best response from consumers as it registered 303 units sold in September 2020. This is the first time Nexon EV sales in a month has crossed the 300 mark.
      It is also the highest number of EV units sold of a particular brand in a month this fiscal year. Its cumulative figure stands at 1,151 units in the current fiscal year starting from April this year. The Nexon EV bettered its record by 7 units sold in August 2020 and as for the market share, it occupies a total of 61.4 percent of EV market in India.
      Electric Car Sales India – April to Sep 2020. MS = Market Share
      MG ZS EV shows decent numbers
      MG ZS EV comes second in the list with 127 units sold last month as compared to 119 and 85 units sold in August and July this year. In the current fiscal year, MG Motor has retailed a total of 514 units of ZS EV and commands 27.4 percent of EV market share in India.
      MG Motor has expanded wings as the ZS EV will now be available in ten more cities across India. These places include Kolkata, Lucknow, Ludhiana, Coimbatore, Dehradun, Nagpur, Agra, Aurangabad, Indore and Vishakapatnam. The electric crossover was launched earlier in January this year in five cities initially which has now expanded to 21 cities cumulatively across the country.
      Others lag behind
      Hyundai Kona is the next in line with just 29 units of it being sold in the past month. The electric crossover from the Korean brand has not had many takers this year with its cumulative sales this fiscal year accounting for 100 units. It occupies a market share of 5.3 percent in India.
      Similar is the case with Tata Tigor EV which also has registered sales of just 100 units this fiscal year and accounts for 5.3 percent of India passenger EV sales. However, unlike Hyundai Kona, which is available in the open market for general public, Tigor EV is only available to fleet and cab operators in select cities.
      Mahindra e-Verito, on the other hand, is facing a sort of existential crisis as it registered just two units sold last month. Its total sales this fiscal year stands at a dismal nine units with a market share of just 0.5 percent.
      Future of EV market in India
      Although the overall EV volume is way below the expected level, we have to understand that EV market in India is still at a nascent stage in India and would take time to gain some pace. It also requires added infrastructure such as charging stations and battery disposal units to support EVs. Hopefully, in coming future, these issues will be sorted out and more EVs can be seen on Indian roads. Also Read – Top 10 Cars In Sep 2020 More

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      2021 BMW G310 GS Officially Revealed – Production Starts

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      Launch of the updated BMW G310R and G310GS is scheduled to take place on 8th Oct
      BMW G310 GS, first launched in 2016 gives BMW Motorrad customers an opportunity to experience a sub 500cc motorcycle. Compact, robust and versatile in design, four years since debut, the company is now ready to launch its new 2021 BMW G310 GS.

      First unit of the all new, facelifted G310GS rolled off the production line earlier today. BMW G310GS is manufactured in India, by TVS Motor Company at their plant in Hosur. Overall design has been kept similar to the earlier variant.
      The design revision is replete with a basic colour, and two exclusive style variants. All three colour variants feature metallic titanium grey engine housing covers for the alternator, clutch and water pump. Typical GS colours in white with basic colour plain polar white, and tank side panels in grey, make for a sporty Rallye style appearance. The frame is painted in red, and Kyanit blue metallic for the tank centre cover and front.
      2021 BMW G310GS Production Starts
      Engine
      Engine is same as before. BMW G310 GS features a 313 cc, liquid-cooled single-cyl engine with four valves, two overhead camshafts and electronic fuel injection (FI). Power output is pegged at 25 kW (34 HP) at 9500 rpm, and a maximum torque of 28 Nm at 7500 rpm. Engine is now equipped with an ‘electronic throttle grip‘ (electromotive throttle controller) for improved throttle response. Automatic idle speed increases when starting to prevent any possible sudden engine stalling.
      The cylinder head is rotated by 180 degrees with front intake, and exhaust at the rear for optimal combustion air ducting. The structure supports the motorcycle’s compact vehicle architecture. For international markets, the new BMW G310 GS is now homologated to EU5 standards. While the one in India, which will be launched next week, will be homologated to BS6 standard. The engine also features automatic idle boost and electromotive throttle controller.

      Features
      New BMW G 310 GS’ stance is cemented with a windscreen, high front fender, striking flyline and short, and high rear end. Features that are seen in the bigger GS models. Self-boosting anti-hopping clutch is new. It reduces engine drag torque and improves driving safety, especially when braking involving simultaneous downshifting.
      Significant reduction in operating forces at the clutch lever is also factored in. Hand lever is adjustable in four stages for brake and clutch for both. Largely beneficial for folks with small hands.

      LED Headlights
      Lighting structure includes full-LED headlight and LED flashing turn indicators. The latter for improved night visibility. High beam, low beam and, daytime driving light (depending on the country), is operated from left handlebar controls.
      40 Years GS Edition
      There is a new special edition of 2021 BMW G310GS, called 40 Years GS Edition. While it’s not known, which markets will see the ’40 Years GS’ edition, but there will be a BMW G 310 GS based on R 100 GS’ colour theme in black and yellow. This will have the basic colour cosmic black, and yellow graphics on the tank side panels.

      Pricing has not been revealed yet. For India, official launch will take place on 8th Oct, which is when the prices will also be revealed. Along with the GS, we will also get the new G310R. Bookings are now open. Once launched, it will rival the likes of KTM 390 ADV and Duke 390 respectively. More

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      Honda CB350 vs Royal Enfield Classic, Meteor 350 vs Jawa – Specs Comparison

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      After a long wait and considerable suspense, Honda has finally revealed its rival to Royal Enfield in India
      The name is Honda H’ness CB350, launched at a starting price of approx Rs 1.9 lakh (ex-showroom). The Honda CB350 roadster will be sold through the company’s premium ‘Honda Big Wing’ dealerships.

      H’ness is inspired by Honda CB motorcycles of 1960s that were distinguishable with their round headlight, round rear view mirrors, chrome fenders & accents and comfortable riding stance. To understand how it will fare against rivals, here’s a quick comparison of Honda CB350 vs Royal Enfield Classic 350 vs Royal Enfield Meteor 350 vs Jawa 300. Do note that Meteor 350 is yet to be launched, so below specs of Meteor 350 are via leaked material, and not official.
      Design and styling
      All four motorcycles have retro styling and are offered with attractive colour options. It’s difficult to say which one has the best design & styling, as it’s a subjective matter and depends on individual tastes and preferences. All four bikes share quite a few common features such as round headlamps, teardrop shaped indicators and liberal use of chrome bits. These bikes have a comfortable riding stance and are designed for long distance touring.

      Dimensions
      There aren’t significant differences in length, width, and height of CB350, Meteor, Classic 350 and Jawa. Talking about ground clearance, which could determine off-roading capabilities, Meteor and CB350 are better placed with 170 mm and 166 mm, respectively. In comparison, Classic 350 has ground clearance of 135 mm.
      Honda CB350 vs Rivals – Dimensions
      In terms of wheelbase that can influence stability, Honda CB350 leads the pack with 1441 mm. On the negative side, longer wheelbase can adversely impact a motorcycle’s manoeuvrability. Coming to kerb weight, Jawa is the lightest at 172 kg. CB350 comes second with 181 kg whereas Classic 350 is heaviest at 195 kg.
      Engine
      While CB350 is powered by a 348 cc motor, Meteor and Classic 350 have 349 cc and 346 cc engines. Jawa has a 293 cc engine, but its power output of 26 bhp is highest in this group. CB350 is second with power output of 21 bhp. Meteor and Classic 350 have matching power output of 20.2 bhp and 19.1 bhp, respectively.
      Honda CB350 vs Rivals – Engine Specs
      In terms of torque, CB350 takes the lead with 30 Nm at 3000 rpm. This is followed by Classic 350, Jawa and Meteor at 28 Nm, 27.05 Nm and 27 Nm, respectively. Talking about transmission, all except Jawa have 5-speed transmission. Jawa is equipped with a 6-speed gearbox.
      Chassis and suspension
      While CB350 utilizes a half-duplex cradle frame, Classic 350 and Jawa are equipped with single downtube and double cradle frame, respectively. All four bikes have telescopic front forks. Rear suspension of CB350 and Jawa are twin hydraulic units whereas Meteor and Classic 350 have adjustable twin springs and twin gas charged shock absorbers, respectively. All four bikes have disc brakes at both ends and are equipped with dual-channel ABS.
      Honda CB350 vs Rivals
      Honda CB350 and RE Meteor 350 get alloy wheels while other two get spoke wheels. Front tyre in 100/90- 19 inch in CB350 and Meteor 350 while in Classic 350 it is 120/80 – 18 inch. Jawa gets 17 inch front tyre with 120/80 section. CB350 rear tyre is 130/70-18 inch while Meteor 350 gets 140/70-17 inch, which is the fattest rear tyre in the segment. Classic and Jawa both get 120/80 rear section tyres, but the former gets 18 inches while latter gets 17 inches.
      Features & Warranty
      To remove any doubts in the mind of customers, Honda has equipped CB350 with a range of first-in-segment features. These give CB350 a definitive advantage over its rivals. They are available across the range including design & styling, performance, technology, comfort and safety. Starting with the visual aspects, CB350 comes with first-in-segment LED headlight and LED tail lamp with ring type winkers. This adds a regal look to the bike and enhances its style quotient.
      In terms of performance, CB350 has selectable torque control that prevents rear wheel slips caused by abrupt acceleration. This feature also improves ride quality in varying terrain and environment. Another segment first feature is assist and slipper clutch, which ensures smoother deceleration and less fatigue for the rider.
      Honda CB350 vs Rivals – Features and Warranty
      In the tech department, CB350 is equipped with first-in-segment Bluetooth based connectivity system. It allows users to seamlessly access phone calls, music, messages, and turn-by-turn navigation. Colour options on offer are 6, of which 3 are dual tone.
      Honda CB350 utilizes an advanced instrument console that displays several first-in-segment information such as average mileage, real time mileage, battery voltage, gear position and distance to empty. In terms of safety, the motorcycle is equipped with first-in-segment engine start/stop switch, hazard switch, and side stand indicator with engine cut-off.
      Warranty on board the Honda CB350 is for 3 years standard. You have the option to buy extended warranty of 3 years, making it a total warranty of 6 years. No other motorcycle in the segment offers 6 years warranty. Royal Enfield Classic 350 BS6 comes with 2 yrs warranty, which can be extended by 3 years, making it total 5 years. Jawa offers they lowest warranty. Meteor 350 warranty as per leaked info stands at 3 years / 30k kms. RE could offer extended warranty of 3 years when launched.
      Price
      Meteor and Classic 350 are the most affordable motorcycles in this group, available at a starting price of Rs 1.68 lakh (expected) and Rs 1.69 lakh, respectively. Next is Jawa, which is available at Rs 1.83 lakh. Honda CB350 is the costliest at Rs 1.9 lakh (expected).
      Royal Enfield – Undisputed King of 350cc segment
      Royal Enfield is the best selling brand in the 350cc segment – selling over 45k units every month (Classic 350, Bullet 350, Electra 350). With the Meteor 350 soon the launched, RE can expect sales to increase even further. Will Honda CB350 manage to put an end to RE’s monopoly in the segment?
      Based on initial impressions of Honda CB350, it would not be wrong to say that Royal Enfield finally has a formidable challenger. Jawa had evoked similar feelings at the time of its launch, but things didn’t move forward as expected due to considerable delay in deliveries as well as quality issues. Such problems are unlikely to be there with Honda.
      Royal Enfield Classic 350
      However, things won’t be easy for Honda as well since customer perceptions are tough to change. Royal Enfield motorcycles enjoy cult status, something that would be challenging to conquer. CB350 is the costliest motorcycle in this segment, which is another factor that can influence customer purchase decisions. Another reason which could hamper CB350 from becoming a sales hit, is that it is only going to be sold via the Big Wing dealer network, which has hardly any presence across the country.
      On the positive side, things that could work out in favour of Honda CB350 include its understated elegance, an array of 1st-in-segment features and the trust and reliability that comes with Honda brand name. CB350 can create its own fan following, comprising folks looking for an upgrade and some of the existing Royal Enfield fans who may want to try something new. It would be interesting to see how this battle shapes up in the coming months. More