PIAGGIO'S VESPA REDUCED TO RS 59,960

Italian bike maker Piaggio Vehicles Private Limited's iconic scooter Vespa was now reduced to Rs 59,960. The price reduce was to increase Vespa's mass appeal and to take on market leader Honda Two-wheelers. Piaggio has taken this step due to India's scooter market growth of 20.06% in a relatively flat automotive market. India's scooter stood at 1.94 million vehicles from April to November, according to industry lobby Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers. Honda Scooters is leading the India’s scooter segment with more than 50% of the market share. Piaggio said it has sold over 25,000 units of its classic scooter in India.

Piaggio's Vespa classic LX 125

Piaggio's Vespa classic LX 125

"In keeping with the philosophy of maximising customer value, Piaggio would be sharing the consequent benefits with potential consumers beginning January 2013. This would lower the acquisition cost of the Vespa with the ex- showroom purchase price point now starting at Rs. 59,990 and taking the iconic brand to a wider set of aspiring consumers," Piaggio said in a statement.

"As we move into 2013, we are looking to increase this base and consolidate our national presence. From a business point of view, we've been able to build a strong network of dealers and partners much faster than we thought, thereby enhancing the reach and penetration," said Ravi Chopra, Chairman and Managing Director, PVPL.

Piaggio's Vespa classic LX 125 competes with the likes of Honda Activa and Duo, Hero Motorcorp Maestro, TVS Wego, Yamaha Ray, Suzuki Access 125, Mahindra Duro Dz 125 and Rodeo 125 and Suzuki Swish 125. Though Piaggio Vespa is reduced in cost it is still the highest priced scooter in India.

MOST PREFERRED SCOOTER BRAND OF THE YEAR

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd., which is currently selling three scooter in the country(Honda Activa, Dio and Aviator), received the “Most Preferred Scooter Brand of the Year” award at the prestigious North East Consumer Awards 2012. The North-East Consumer’s Choice Awards truly shows the sentiment of consumers in North East and their belief in Brands. The award results are based on a survey of 1040 respondents by market intelligence agency Oikonomist’s. Further, the random sampling process ensures that the diversity of the region gets authentic representation.

The ‘Most Preferred Scooter Brand of the Year’ award shows that the number of consumers are increasing. Honda is reaching closer to its customers in North East with its 21 sales and service outlets and has recently inaugurated new outlets in Mizoram and Manipur also.

All the Honda Models including the recently launched 110cc Dream Yuga meet the expectations of customers in all categories. While two-wheelers industry in North East has grown at moderate pace of 6%, Honda has grown by an overwhelming 36% in April-December’2012 period. This shows how fast Honda is growing in India.

Speaking on this landmark development, Mr. Yadvinder S Guleria, Vice President – Sales & Marketing, HMSI said, “We at Honda are delighted to win the “Most Preferred Scooter Brand of the Year” award at the North East Consumer Awards 2012. This recognition re-affirms customers’ appreciation of Brand Honda and its continued leadership in the automatic scooters in India. As the only Honda in the World’s second largest Two-Wheeler market, Honda will continue its efforts to satisfy customers and bring the Joy of mobility to their lives.”

HYOSUNG AQUILA GV650 PRO AND GT650R LAUNCHED IN INDIA

HYOSUNG AQUILA GV650

South Korean company Hyosung with its Indian partner DSK launched two new bikes in India. The attraction for superbikes and premium cruisers is increasing in India, therefore they launched Aquila GV650 PRO cruiser and revamped GT650R sports bike at very competative prices of Rs. 4.99 lakh and Rs, 4.79 lakh respectively.

The Aquila GV650 Pro is the second cruiser bike in India after the successful ST7, which is a typical laid back cruiser meant to ride the torque, while the GV650 to go after the sport bikes. With the introduction of Aquila GV650 in India the Aquila has made a re-entry in India. The cruiser Aquila Pro (650cc) will be available in three colour variants - Red, Silver & Black. While Hyosung GT650R will be available in Titanium White, Titanium Red and Titanium Black.

Mr. Shirish Kulkarni, Managing Director, DSK Hyosung said, “We are very passionate about promoting superbiking culture in India by introducing niche products for our valuable customers and superbiking fraternity as a whole. Aquila Pro as our campaign says ‘soul of a cruiser, heart of a racer’ is one of the best looking cruisers I have ever seen .It is basically about fun and the sheer joy of riding. When it comes to the newly launched GT650R - 2013 its sheer racing style is going to the win the hearts of lovers of super sports bike in India”.

“The launch of both the bikes once again shows DSK and Hyosung’s commitment towards the super bike enthusiast in India. The DSK and Hyosung association also portrays the dedication to develop truly unique super bikes that offer the perfect symbiosis of design, character and performance. Today, our innovation and expertise has created a range of bikes, from cutting edge sports bikes to retro-classics and sports cruisers. Our products offer something for everyone in the super biking segment”, he further added. Speaking on the occasion Jimmy Park, Managing Director, S&T Motors said, “I am really proud to be a part of this historic occasion. I sincerely thank DSK Group to take the brand Hyosung ahead and make it popular among the ever growing super biking community in India. The launch of two super bikes once again reiterates our ever growing bond of trust and reliability. I am confident that like our other products these two bikes will appeal to the super bikers in India.” 

Hyosung Aquila GV650 PRO

Hyosung Aquila GV650 PRO Specifications:

Hyosung Aquila GV650 PRO Dimensions:

Overall Length: 2330mm

Overall Height: 1150mm

Overall Width: 840mm

Wheel Base: 1700mm

Seat Height: 690mm

Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.8 litre

Curb Weight: 232 kg

Hyosung Aquila GV650 PRO Brake:

Brake-Front: 300mm Semi floating double discs, 2 pistons calipers

Brake-Rear: 270mm Single disc, 2 pistons caliper

Hyosung Aquila GV650 PRO Suspension:

Suspension-Front: 41mm Upside down Telescopic (Compression, Rebound damping adjustable)

Suspension-Rear: Swing arm with Hydraulic Double shock absorber (Preload adjustable)

Hyosung Aquila GV650 PRO Tyres:

Front: 120/70 ZR-18

Rear: 180/55 ZR-17

Hyosung Aquila GV650 PRO Engine and Power:

Type: Liquid cooled DOHC 8-valve 90° V-twin

Displacement: 647cc

Bore x Stroke: 81.5 x 62

Compression Ratio: 11.5 : 1

Fuel System: Fuel injection

Lubrication: Wet sump

Hyosung Aquila GV650 PRO Transmission

Transmission- Multiplate Wet Clutch

Gear: Constant mesh 5-Speed

Final Drive: Belt

Hyosung Aquila GV650 PRO Mileage:

Mileage: 22kmpl

 

Hyosung GT650R Specifications

Hyosung GT650R Specifications :

Hyosung GT650R Engine and Power:

Engine: 647cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 8-valve,V-twin

Power: 72.68 BHP @ 9000 RPM

Torque: 60.9 Nm @ 7500 RPM

Hyosung GT650R Transmission and top Speed:

Transmission: 6-speed manual

Top Speed: 210 KMPH

0-100kmph: 5.5 seconds

Hyosung GT650R Mileage:

Fuel Consumption: 17-18 kmpl (City), 20-22 kmpl (highway)

Fuel Type: Petrol

Hyosung GT650R Suspension and Brakes:

Suspension: Inverted telescopic forks (front), linked monoshock (rear)

Tires: 120/60/17 (Front), 160/60/17 (Rear)

Brakes: 300 mm Ventilated Discs (Front), 230 mm Disc (Rear)

Hyosung GT650R Dimensions

Overall length x width x height: 2095 mm X 700 mm X 1135 mm

Wheelbase: 1445 mm

Ground clearance: 165 mm

Fuel Tank Capacity: 17-liters

Kerb Weight: 215 kgs

MAHINDRA PANTERO PRICED AT RS.44,000

Mahindra Two-wheelers launched its first ever two-wheeler offering Mahindra Pantero. With the Pantero, Mahindra has made a re-entry in bike market and they are hoping high this time around. The speciality in this bike is the Mahindra's newly developed Micro Chip Ignited 5-Curve engine. The Pantero is comes in Fiery Red, Blazing Black Cool Black and Sterling Silver. Pithampur plant in Indore is the manufacturing spot for Pantero. Pantero will have a tough fight with Hero Splendor, Suzuki Hayate, Honda Dream Yuga etc.

MAHINDRA PANTERO PRICED AT RS.44,000

Mahindra Pantero 110 Specifications

Mahindra Pantero 110 Engine:

 Engine: Single Cylinder, 4-stroke, Air cooled, Mci-5 engine

Displacement : 106.7 cc

Bore X Stroke : 52.4 X 49.5 mm

Maximum Power : 8.5 PS @ 7500 rpm

Maximum Torque : 8.5 Nm @ 5500 rpm

Starting System : Electric Start / Kick Start

Transmission: Gear Box , Constant mesh 4 Speed

Mahindra Pantero 110 Suspension:

Suspension front- Telescopic , Coil spring

Suspension rear- Coiled 5-step adjustable

Mahindra Pantero 110 Brakes:

Brake FRONT- Drum – 130 mm

REAR : Drum – 130 mm

Mahindra Pantero 110 Tyres:

Tyre Size: FRONT - 2.75” x 18”

REAR - 3.0” x 18”

Mahindra Pantero 110 Electrical and other Features:

Battery:

Electric Start - 12V / 5 Ah

Kick Start - 12V / 2.5 Ah

Headlamp - 12 V – 35W/35W – Halogen (Multi-reflector)

Tail lamp- LED Type

Speedometer - Digital / Analog

Dry Weight - 110.5 kg

Kerb Weight (90% fuel filled) - 120Kg

White Twin Pilot Lamps -LED Type

Mahindra Pantero 110 Dimensions:

Overall Length : 2000 mm

Overall Width : 735 mm

Overall Height : 1050 mm

Seat Height : 805 mm

Wheel Base : 1265 mm

Minimum Ground Clearance : 165 mm

Fuel Tank Capacity : 13.7 liters

Mahindra Pantero 110 Mileage- 79.5kmpl

SINGLE CYLINDERED 250CC BIKE BY HYOSUNG

South Korean company Hyosung is working hard to reach a good position in the two-wheelers market in India which is the second largest two-wheeler market in the world. At the launch of its two premium motorcycles, Hyosung announced the launch of a new 250cc-single cylinder bike in India. The Indo-Korean motorcycle joint venture DSK-Hyosung is developing this sportsbike at Hyosung’s South Korea based Research and Development facility.DSK-Hyosung also announced that the construction of their new assembly facility in India will commence by March 2013, and it is fully functional by September, 2013. The possibilities are high that the new 250cc bike will be assembled in this facility. Given the fact that the facility will be an assembly unit rather than a full fledged manufacturing plant, so the company will use the completely knocked down(CKD) kit route for the bike as they are doing for their other bikes. The 250cc-single cylinder motorcycle will be a global product and will be sold across the globe, as an entry level sportsbike. The bike will rival some big players including Honda CBR250R, Ninja 250 R, Yamaha R25 and others.

Ninja 250 R

Hyosung is selling its affordable performance bike GT250R in the 250cc segment at very affordable price and considering new bike's single cylinder engine architecture, it is going to be an affordable offering for sure. Now-a-days the 250cc sportsbike segment is center of attraction across the globe, as the motorcycle manufacturer are taking this seriously after the success of Honda CBR250R and Kawasaki Ninja 250 R. Bikemakers are developing these affordable performance bikes both for developed countries like the USA and the UK as well as for the developing ones like Asian markets. In India, this space will see massive changes in 2013-14, at the moment there are three bikes available, Hyosung GT250R, KTM Duke 200 and Kawasaki Ninja 250 R. The coming months will witness the launch of KTM Duke 390, which is scheduled to debut in India during March 2013. Following this Bajaj Auto is also planning to launch its Bajaj Pulsar 375 in late 2013.There are reports that, British bikemaker Triumph is also working on a 250cc twin cylinder made for India motorcycle, which is expected to see a 2014 Auto Expo debut. Japanese motorcycle giant Yamaha is also developing a 250cc bike and will showcase it in 2014 Auto Expo. Suzuki is also planning to introduce Inazuma in India by the year end, so the affordable performance bike segment is going to blow in near future.

HONDA PLANNING TO LAUNCH FOUR PRODUCTS EVERY YEAR

Japanese two-wheeler giant Honda said it will launch at least four products every year in India, after unveiling the 2013 models of their automatic scooters. The products will be developed at its first integrated R&D centre here, that will also serve as a global innovation hub. The company's wholly-owned subsidiary Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) is also going to hire 2,000 people at its upcoming third manufacturing facility in Karnataka during 2013-14.

HONDA

"Our plan is to launch at least four products every year from this R&D centre. As India becomes a global innovation hub for Honda, customers can look forward to new products faster," HMSI President and CEO Keita Muramatsu told reporters here. The new R&D centre along with HMSI technical centre currently has a strength of 200 engineers and developers, he added. Elaborating on its product plans, HMSI Vice President (Sales and Marketing) Yadvinder S Guleria said, "Currently, we are developing four new products from this R&D Centre. The first of these products will hit the roads during the 2013-14 financial year." When asked about the third manufacturing facility in Karnataka, Muramatsu said, "The third plant will start production during first quarter next fiscal with full capacity. Our total output would be 40 lakh per annum from all the plants"

He further said the company will hire 2,000 people at the third plant during the next fiscal, taking the total manpower of the company to 13,000. The company currently has two facilities at Manesar and Tapukara in Rajasthan with annual output of 16 lakh units and 12 lakh units respectively. The company is also expecting about 17 per cent jump in its total sales during this financial year at 27.5 lakh units. Out of that, it hopes to sell 26 lakh units in the domestic market.

BAJAJ BLADE 125 MAKING ITS WAY TO THE MARKET

India's scooter market is on its all time high, but strangely country's second largest two-wheeler maker and legendary scooter manufacturer Bajaj has not released a single scooter on this year. Bajaj started its journey with the scooters, and their Chetak and Priya were one of the most successful scooters till date. However, they have tried their hands in the scooters with the Kristle and Wave in last few years, but they failed. Now there are reports coming in that the Bajaj Auto might come with a new 125cc scooter, which will speak for them in the scooter segment. Hopefully, it will be the Bajaj Blade 125, which is going to be a unisex offering from the company.

BAJAJ BLADE 125

However only an image of the scooter is available on online automobile portals and it reveals a lot about the scooter. The image suggests that the Blade will be equipped with front telescopic shock absorbers, 12 inch wheels, digital instrument cluster, front fuel filling, front disc brake and electric start. The scooter will be powered by a 125cc-air cooled four stroke engine that features a 4 valve head, which will be mated to a CVT transmission and safely expect the engine to get the DTSi treatment in the production spec scooter.

BAJAJ BLADE 125

With the expected specifications the upcoming Blade 125 is going to be a great product, and as Bajaj is famous for keeping the prices low, we can expect an affordable price tag of the said scooter as well. Bajaj Blade 125 will compete with the other 125cc scooters in India including Piaggio Vespa LX125, Mahindra Duro, Suzuki Access and Swish. 

MOTORCYCLE INSURANCE

Whether you have just bought your first bike or are adding to your collection, one of the first things you will be looking to do is insure your new purchase. Motorbikes are four times more likely to be stolen than cars so it is vital that you protect them. You are 9 times more likely to be injured in a bike accident than a car one so it is also important to protect yourself in case anything does happen. However there are many different types of insurance that offer different levels of cover and it is important that you get the right insurance for your biking needs. Finding the right kind of cover for your needs can be a tricky process but one that you have to go through, it is illegal to take to the road without some sort of cover. 

MOTORCYCLE INSURANCE

The minimal legal requirement for motorcycle insurance is third party cover, which doesn’t cover you for any damage done to your bike in an accident, so you would have to pay for any repairs yourself. I would highly recommend that you opt for fully comprehensive cover, as this will cover you regardless of whose fault the accident was. It is always worth remembering that even with fully comp packages there may still be areas where you are not covered such as breakdowns and the use of a courtesy bike. Make sure you read the small print and are aware of exactly what you are signing up for. 

MOTORCYCLE INSURANCE

Breakdown cover is considered a type of insurance, but you will have either take it out separately or add it on as an extra. As a biker it is also worth thinking about personal accident insurance as this will help you to claim compensation if you are seriously injured i.e. the loss of a limb. The more that is included in your cover, the more expensive it will be, however it may well be worth paying that bit more for the peace of mind that comes with fully comprehensive cover. The price of motorcycle insurance is also affected by how expensive and powerful your bike is, which obviously will make your premium more expensive. 

MOTORCYCLE INSURANCE

The best advice I can give is to shop around and make sure you get the best deal for the coverage you need. Going to a comparison site like MCN Insurancewill give you a great idea of the options that are available to you. Simply put in all your information and let them find the best quotes for your needs. Getting comparisons will stop you from paying over the odds for your insurance. 

YAMAHA GRABBED MUCH OF THE ATTENTION AT MUMBAI INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW

John Abraham at MMRDA

One of the most expected motorcycle shows, the Mumbai International Motor show was organized at the MMRDA Grounds, Bandra Kurla Complex recently. A wide range of four and two-wheelers were displayed for photographers as well as the automobile aficionados. At stall number 21, India Yamaha Motor represented some of the most exciting products such as the Yamaha Ray scooter, the Moto GP inspired R15 bike, the legendary VMAX along with a line-up of the latest products and accessories from Yamaha. Bollywood Rockstar John Abraham, whose association with the company has significantly enhanced its brand image, was also present at the stall.

John Abraham at MMRDA

Mr. Roy Kurian, National Business Head, India Yamaha Motor Pvt. Ltd., said, “Yamaha has always been a committed player in the two-wheeler market and makes consistent efforts to adapt to market demand by launching exciting products year-on-year. I am extremely happy that Ray has been well received and looking at the current market scenario where the scooter segment is growing tremendously, I am positive that Ray will be able to hold its ground as the number one scooter in the country. Similarly, our bikes are equally special to us. A lot of thought and hard-work goes into our products and we prioritize our customers’ needs above everything else. Having said that, I extend my gratitude towards our loyal customers and channel partners who have played a key role in our consistent growth in India over the years.”

The motif at the Yamaha booth was in sync with the concept adopted by the company this year based on “Yamaha Global DNA” and the message being “Excitement”. Known for their stylish designs, innovation and high technology powered with exciting performance, all the products on display grabbed much of the attention from the onlookers.

Deepika padukone at the launch of Yamaha Ray

The company’s premium scooter-the Ray, which was launched with great aplomb in Hyderabad in September last year, has stupendous response from critics and consumers alike. Ray’s brand ambassador, Miss Deepika Padukone has boosted the image of the company especially among young girls and women. Both John and Deepika have done extremely well.

MOTORCYCLE LOAN-COMMON MISTAKES

Motorcycle loans

If you plan to take a loan for motorcycle or a moped, you might face certain difficulties. People make some common errors when seeking a loan. Avoid making mistakes when taking a loan or else you might take a wrong decision. Before taking loans, people choose motorcycle. Technically you should consult a lender first, to get an idea on your budget. For example, you have selected the bike, and its price is $15,000 and you may get a loan of $11,000. This may disappoint you.

First compare the interest’s rates before you take a loan. Generally you might be pressurized to take loans without proper information about the schemes and this may lead to paying higher interest rates. Know all the details about the loan before you finalize it and do not go by the views of sales advisor.

Before you take the loan read all terms and conditions. Never take loans from private companies by seeing their promotional ads. For example, you borrowed money from credit card. You have to pay the interest rates for one year. If you take a loan from bank, you can clear your loan in short period with low interest rates.

Don’t borrow more than required. Have an idea on how much you can afford and the amount you can repay every month. Generally many do not consider this issue before making a final decision. In fact it happens with young people and new buyers.

The best way is to shop around before you go and decide the dealer. This way you will get an idea about bike price. If you are unaware of the options, then take advice from salesman.

Here are the common mistakes made by people. The person who lends you the money makes more money, when you are not paying your debts. Before signing the documents you should be aware of the conditions. To get a good loan, try to avoid these small mistakes. It is recommended to follow financing tips in motorcycle loans.

Banks frequently include administration fee in the charges. The reason behind this is it frequently increases every month. At the end of the month, the charges add up to large amount. If your bank is charging you extra fees, use online calculators to check the cost. This tip may save you money, so consider this point.

Know all the details before you finalise the loan and opt for financial institutions which provide you with lower interest rates. Some banks and financial institutions give loans for vehicles. Go for such ones as they have other privileges like lower interest, easy payment options and more. Research well before you finalize.

When you proceed with the loan, ask for payment protection insurance along with it. Payment protection helps you at times of unemployment, disability or when you are undertaking medication whence you have no monthly income. This insurance takes care of your monthly premiums and keeps you stress free and you can later make ppi claims through claiming company to get a refund.

HONDA DEVELOPING NEW HONDA CBR400R

While we were guessing that the new 500cc middleweight motorcycles from Honda is to compete with the new Kawasaki Ninja 400R, Honda surprised everyone by unveiling a new 400cc twin-cylinder engine motorcycle which is a downsized version of the 470cc parallel twin found on the CBR500R. This 400cc bike is developed exclusively for the Japanese market, where the Japanese government imposes lower taxes upon motorcycles in the 250-400cc segment. Thus making the motorcycles in this category costs lesser.

Honda CBR250R

To utilize the tax benefits leading motorcycle makers like Honda, Kawasaki and Suzuki are developing the single cylinder engine and twin cylinder engine for the 250cc to 400cc category. Honda already has the CBR250R in that category and now they developed the new twin cylinder engine displacing 400cc. The 400cc four stroke twin cylinder engine is expected to power the Honda CBR400R and is expected to have a tough fight with Kawasaki Ninja 400R.

KTM Duke 390

Honda is trying to establish a strong foundation in the Japanese market at the moment. There is question whether they will sell the new CBR400R sportsbike in other countries or not. There are some reports that they are also planning to launch the bike in south east Asian markets. The motorcycle market in India has been improved in last few years and the bike can be a rival for upcoming KTM Duke 390 and Bajaj Pulsar 375.

HONDA CB150R STREETFIRE ON ITS WAY TO THE MARKET ON FEB,2013

Having already announced to launch 4 new bikes and scooters every year, the Japanese bike-maker Honda is using an aggressive marketing strategy in India to achieve 20 million sales target by 2020. They have launched the 2013 version of their automatic scooters Dio, Activa and Aviator with improved fuel economy. Now Honda India is going to launch CB150R Streetfire, which is the naked version of the Honda CBR150R. The bike is set for the launch in just a few days, in February 2013. You can find a number of choices available in the 150cc bike space in India, which is being ruled by Bajaj Pulsar 150 for more than decade now. Looking at the bike's specification we can say it should be prove an agile, refined and sporty motorcycle capable of urban commutes, with some sort of fun riding on open roads. Its good for Honda to price it somewhere around the Yamaha YZF R15.

HONDA CB150R

HONDA CB150R

Honda CB150R StreetFire Engine:

Engine type: 4-Stroke, DOHC, 4-Valve, Single Cylinder

Bore x stroke: 63.5 x 47.2 mm

Displacement: 149.48 cc

Compression Ratio: 11.0: 1

Maximum power: 12.5 kW (17.0 PS) / 10,000 rpm

Maximum Torque: 13.1 Nm (1.34 kgf.m) / 8000 rpm

Lubricant Oil Capacity Engine: 1.0 Liter on the Periodic Replacement

Transmission: 6-Speed Manual

Honda CB150R StreetFire Dimensions:

Length X width X height: 2008 x 719 x 1061 mm

Axis Wheels distance: 1288 mm

Ground Clearance: 148 mm

Dry weight: 129 kg

Fuel tank capacity: 12 liters

Frame: Diamond Steel (Truss Frame)

Honda CB150R StreetFire Braking and Suspension:

Type of Front suspension: Telescopic

Type of Rear suspension: Swing Arm Monoshock Suspension (Prol-Link Suspension System)

Front brake: Hydraulic disc, with double piston 260mm

Rear brake: Hydraulic disc, with Single Piston 220mm

Honda CB150R StreetFire Tyres:

Front tyre size: 80/90 17" (tubeless)

Rear tyre size: 100/80 17" (tubeless)

Honda CB150R StreetFire Electrical and Others:

Starter: Kick & Electrical

Battery: 12V, 5 Ah

Ignition System: Full transistorized

HONDA ADOPTED ITS FIRST-EVER TRAFFIC EDUCATION PARK

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd.(HMSI) has set a new landmark in the promotion of road safety as a responsible corporate. Honda adopted its first-ever Traffic Education Park in India by entering into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Department of Science & Technology, Government of Rajasthan.

HONDA ADOPTED

At the specially designed Traffic Park, Honda will promote Road Safety through its unique Lifetime Safety Education starting from 5 years young children to adults. There is also a Special Primary School activity for children from 5-8 years of age to promote safety among the young ones. Honda’s specially imported Honda CRF 50 model is used for practical riding experience for young one's from 9-12 years of age.

HONDA ADOPTED

Theoretical sessions & riding trainer, which is also present at every Honda dealership across India, will aid people above 13 years of age to experience over 100 possible dangers on road. This experience increases their ability to predict and react to traffic hazards. President and CEO- HMSI, Mr. Keita Muramatsu said, “As a responsible manufacturer, we always strive to provide our Customers with safe products while communicating knowledge and technologies for safe riding. With Honda’s global experience, we will continue to pursue both product safety and traffic safety education, leading to a safer mobility for society.” 

HONDA ADOPTED

Vice President- Sales & Marketing, Mr. Yadvinder S. Guleria said, “From more than a decade, Honda has been promoting safe riding activities across India through its dealerships. The basic issue is not only the infrastructure but mindset of the road users. That is why the sea change cannot be brought overnight. It requires active participation from the Corporate, Government and society at large. As a good corporate citizen Honda understands its responsibility to contribute towards road safety promotion, keeping in mind the Indian traffic conditions and this Park is a significant step towards meeting our commitment of making Safe Riding an everyday habit of all 2Wheeler riders.” 

KAWASAKI Z250 LAUNCHED IN INDONESIA

Due to the demand of naked bikes now-a-days, most of the bike maker are converting their bike into the naked one. Following this trend Kawasaki has launched Z250 in Indonesia, which is the naked version of the Kawasaki Ninja 250R and boast designing cues of Z800. Looking at its specification and appeal there is a hope that Bajaj-Kawasaki might launch the bike in India. Since it is a naked bike, it will be cheaper than the Ninja 250 R. Upcoming KTM Duke 390 and Suzuki Inazuma 250 are also naked bikes.

KAWASAKI Z250

KAWASAKI Z250

Kawasaki Z250 StreetFighter Specifications

Kawasaki Z250 StreetFighter Engine and Power:

Engine Type: DOHC, 4 valve per cylinder, Parallel twin-cylinder, 4-stroke, Water-cooled

Engine Capacity: 248cc

Bore × Stroke: 62.0mm × 41.2mm

Compression ratio: 11.3:1

Maximum Power: 30.6bhp at 11,000 rpm

Maximum Torque: 21Nm at 8,500 rpm

Fuel System Fuel Injection (?28 mm x 2) with dual throttle valves

Ignition System: Digital

Cooling system: Liquid-cooled

Compression Ratio: 11.3: 1

Kawasaki Z250 StreetFighter Dimensions:

Overall width × height × length: 2010 mm × 750mm × 1,025 mm

Center distance: 1410 mm

Minimum ground clearance: 145mm

Seat height: 785 mm

Trail: 26/82 mm

Weight of vehicle: 168kg

Fuel tank capacity: 17-litre

Kawasaki Z250 StreetFighter Transmission:

Transmission: 6-speed

Clutch type: Wet multi-plate

Kawasaki Z250 StreetFighter Chassis:

Frame: Diamond

Kawasaki Z250 StreetFighter Suspension:

Suspension Front: 37 mm Telescopic fork

Rear Suspension: Bottom-Link Uni-Trak with gas-charged shock and 5-way adjustable preload

Kawasaki Z250 StreetFighter Brakes:

Front brake Single 290 mm petal disc with dual-piston caliper

Rear Brake Single 220 mm petal disc with dual-piston caliper

Kawasaki Z250 StreetFighter Tyres:

Front Tyre 110/70, 17-inch

Rear tyre 140/70, 17-inch

HARLEY DAVIDSON TARGETING INDIA WOMEN

HARLEY DAVIDSON

One of the famous American motorcycle maker Harley-Davidson after establishing their feet in the Indian market, they are doing well in India and now they are aiming to attract women as the global trend of women taking to bike-riding is increasing.

HARLEY DAVIDSON

Karen Davidson, the great-granddaughter of Harley Davidson co-founder William Davidson and Creative Director of Harley-Davidson bike company, said "Women riders on Harley-Davidson are not unusual. It was unusual years back, when I used to ride it. But now it's common.". She also added, “As much as a quarter of registered motorcycle owners in US are women.”. “We sell 12 per cent of our brand new bikes to women.” said Davidson, who is in Goa to participate in the 110th year celebrations of the company. "Women are empowered now and can enter politics, sports. When they can push themselves, why can't they own this beautiful machine," she said, recalling how she would fight with her two brothers for riding a Harley Davidson bike. She is interacting with the Harley-Davidson owners across the globe and get feedback, which would be used to improve the bike. She said she came across some women riders in India who were curious about the Harley Davidson bikes. "In India, motorcycling has become a part of lifestyle," she said, adding that these days Harley-Davidson bike is being purchased by the family-oriented people who look up to escape the hectic life on the weekends. 

GROWTH RATE OF HERO AND YAMAHA IN JANUARY 2013

HERO MOTOCORP :

World's largest two-wheeler manufacturer Hero MotoCorp on Sunday said it has recorded highest monthly sales of 5,57,797 units in January 2013. The company sold 5,20,272 units in the same month of 2012. The previous highest sales was in May 2012, when the company had sold 5,56,644 units. Hero has registered a growth of 7.21 percent.

Hero MotoCorp Senior Vice-President (Marketing & Sales) Anil Dua said, "Our new motorcycle launches like Ignitor and Hero Passion X-Pro are receiving excellent customer response, while growth in our scooters, Pleasure & Maestro, is outpacing the industry growth. "The overall two-wheeler industry is again showing good volumes, and we are hopeful of keeping up the momentum," he added. During the month, the company also commenced construction of its fourth manufacturing plant and the Global Parts Centre (GPC) at Neemrana in Rajasthan. Hero Motocorp will invest a total of Rs 550 crore in setting up these facilities, the statement added.

YAMAHA MOTOR:

The company sold 29,785 units in January 2013 as against 26,300 units sold in January last year in the domestic markets. It has registered a growth of 13.2% in domestic sales during January 2013 as compared to the corresponding period last year.

Speaking on the results, Mr. Roy Kurian, National Business Head, India Yamaha Motor, said, “We are indeed pleased with the sales growth that we’ve witnessed in the past month on account of our strong product portfolio, upbeat customer confidence and the launch of the scooter Ray in September last year, which has invariably managed to keep the growth consistent. We recently introduced the Yamaha Female Training programme in Chennai, Bangalore and Kolkata, the response to which has been highly encouraging. We shall continue with our endeavors as far as customer engagement programme is considered. The calendar this year is teeming with activities and I can assure you, that we at India Yamaha Motor shall strive to deliver only what we think is best for our customers.”