Tag: motorbike

5 Essential Tips To Get A Happy Motor Bike

Maintaining a bike is an easy routine. But for most it can be kind of troublesome and tiring. Taking care of your bike is the key to a bike that will serve you well for years.

First of all change your engine oil or gear oil frequently as it lubricates your gears and engines, and also keeps your engine cool. Not changing the engine oil will cause further damage to the engine Which can’t be noticed early. The owner’s manual will specify how frequently the oil should be changed and this schedule should be followed.

Next is the spark plugs; it is the item which causes a spark which in turn will ignite the petrol. This should be changed as specified in the owner’s manual (or if a problem is suspected). It is critically important to use the correct spark plug grade and type. If the manual suggests an iridium plug then these can be worth the extra cost, lasting 16,000 kms or more. Considering that it can take several hours to access the spark plugs on many modern bikes this is money well spent.

Spark Plug

The chain which rotates the rear tire should be kept lubricated. If it’s kept lubricated, it should last for a very long time (50,000 kms is not unusual). If it’s not lubricated, it would be damaged due to excess heat and will wear. This cumulative wear on all the separate links makes the chain loose, and more likely to fall off the sprockets. This can be very dangerous indeed. The chain tightening procedure should be detailed in the owner’s manual, but bear in mind that too tight is a lot worse than too loose.

Also washing the bike is part of maintaining. Keeping it clean of dirt will not only make it look nice, it has its benefits and it’s the key to a bike which lasts long. It also makes it easier to notice missing or loose bolts and nuts.

Washing the bike.

Checking the tire treads every once a week is a good habit. You should change the tyres when you notice a change in the way the bike handles, or at the very latest when the tread is worn down to the wear bars. Under-inflated tyres will overheat and may fail. Over-inflated tyres will give less than optimal grip specially on Indian roads.

August 8, 2013
Triumph Motorcycles coming to India soon

Bike-manufacturer Triumph’s entry into the Indian two-wheeler market has been making the rounds for a long time now. According to rumours, Triumph motorbikes may be available in the market as soon as the 2013 festive season. However, we are slightly skeptical of these rumours, given the history of ups and downs of Triumph’s attempts at foraying into the Indian scene.

The 2012 Auto Expo witnessed the famous British marque’s announcement of aggressive pricing for a model range of seven big-bikes. However, not much has happened since then with the only worthwhile news being that of an upcoming factory located on the outskirts of Bengaluru. A major reason for this delay is Triumph’s intelligent business strategy, which involves bringing bikes through the CKD (Completely Knocked Down) route instead of the much more expensive CBU (Completely Built Unit) route. According to other rumours, the iconic English company is already in process of setting up a compact, efficient motorcycle assembly unit in Manesar, on the outskirts of New Delhi, which will help bring in Triumph motorbikes without further delay.

The CKD units can be expected to be competitively priced, close to their announced target prices from the 2012 Auto Expo. Triumph will be directly competing with other high-end motorcycle marques such as Harley-Davidson which has been present in India for much longer, and the upcoming Indian and Victory brands.

July 24, 2013
Bajaj Discover 125T launched at Rs. 52,500

In order to appeal to a larger audience, Bajaj has launched a variant of the Discover 125ST. It’s called the Discover 125T, where the lack of the ‘S’ makes all the difference.

The Discover 125T is a lower-spec variant of the relatively premium Discover 125ST. Both bikes are aesthetically identical, with the only visual differences being changes to the tank graphics, and the absence of a tyre hugger. Mechanically, the Discover 125T is powered by the same 124.6cc, four-stroke, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine. However, the 125T makes slightly less power; 12.3 bhp at 9000rpm

Peak torque remains the same at 1.1 kgm on the 125T, however it’s available at 6500rpm, which is 500rpm earlier in the powerband in comparison to the 125ST. The 5-speed, 1-down, 4-up shifting gearbox remains the same, but the Discover 125T gets a set of gas-charged shock absorbers at the rear end, unlike the 125ST which packages a Nitrox monoshock.

The Bajaj Discover 125T is available in two trims. The variant with a drum brake on the front wheel will set you back Rs. 52,500 (ex-showroom, Delhi) while the one with a disc brake is priced at Rs. 55,500 (ex-showroom, Delhi).

July 13, 2013
Mahindra launches Centuro at Rs. 45,000

Mahindra 2-Wheelers has launched its Centuro commuter bike at a competitive price of Rs 45,000 (ex-showroom, Delhi). Closely following their Pantero, the Centuro is Mahindra’s next assault on the 110cc segment, a relatively more up-market bike. The Centuro brings a lot of features to the segment for the first time, as Mahindra hopes to attract the attention of the Indian two-wheeler buyer.

The Centuro uses the same engine as the one found mounted to the Mahindra Pantero, launched earlier this year. The unit is a single-cylinder, four-stroke, air-cooled engine having a displacement of 106.7cc, putting out a maximum power of 8.4bhp at 7500rpm and peak torque of 0.87kgm at 5500rpm. The engine is mated to a 4-speed gearbox.

The comprehensive instruments panel offers an analogue tachometer, digital speedometer, odometer, trip meter, clock, service-indicator, economy-mode indicator and a distance to empty read-out. The Centuro offers a flip-to-open 96 bit encrypted key, making it impossible to start using a duplicate key. This key also enables riders to flash their motorcycle headlight when they want to locate it in the dark. The helpful ‘follow-me’ function keeps the headlight illuminated a while after the ignition is switched-off to show its rider the way when it is dark.

The Centuro is held together by a twin downtube frame, using telescopic fork front suspension and adjustable shocks at the rear, bolted onto an old fashioned tubular steel swingarm. The motorcycle seats its rider in an upright riding position, as required by a city-commuter like this. The Centuro comes equipped with drum brakes.

Ten new two-wheelers will be launched by Mahindra over the next year. The first 10,000 Centuro bikes are being offered at an introductory price of Rs 44,000 (ex-showroom, Delhi). Even with its competitive pricing, the Centuro will face stiff competition by rival motorcycles including Hero’s Passion series, Bajaj’s Discover 100T and Honda’s new Dream Yuga.

Specifications

Engine

Fuel                                         Petrol

Installation                              106.7cc, single cylinder, air-cooled, four stroke

Power                                      8.4bhp at 7500rpm

Torque                                     0.87kgm at 5500rpm

Power to weight                      70bhp per tonne

Transmission

Gearbox                                  4-speed, 4-up

Dimensions

Length                                     2031mm

Width                                      735mm

Height                                     1111mm

Wheelbase                               1265mm

Ground clearance                    173mm

Chassis & Body

Weight                                    120kg

Wheels                                    5-spoke alloy

Tyres                                       2.75 x 18- 3.00 x 18 inches

Suspension

Front                                       Telescopic forks

Rear                                        Twin shocks, tubular swingarm

Brakes

Front                                       130mm drum

Rear                                        130mm drum

[Image source: The Hindu]

July 2, 2013
Honda CBR250R now available in Repsol race livery

Honda’s CBR250R sports bike has been a success since it was launched on Indian soil in 2011. Honda has now announced that customers can buy the CBR250R in its Repsol race livery at a higher cost. The Repsol CBR250R will be a special edition on sale for a short period ot time, and available only in limited numbers.

Initially the motorcycle was offered in three paint schemes, red, silver and black. Later on Honda decided to bring its famous Fireblade inspired Pearl Heron Blue. We will also see a white paint scheme for this bike priced at Rs. 1,62,091 for the standard variant and Rs. 1,91,636 for the ABS variant (both ex-showroom, Pune). The Repsol paint scheme will be available at a premium, it will be sold at a price of Rs. 1,97,699 (ex-showroom, Pune).

The CBR250R’s special edition is yet to be dispatched from the Honda factory hence waiting periods may be prolonged, but dealerships are accepting bookings for this paint scheme.

[Autocar India]

June 28, 2013
Polaris to bring Indian and Victory bikes to India

Globally famous marques Indian and Victory are going to set up shop in India sometime in 2014. Minnesota based Polaris Industries is planning to bring both their motorcycle brands after witnessing the success of similar motorcycles such as Harley Davidson. Polaris India Pvt Ltd is headed by Indian two-wheeler industry veteran Pankaj Dubey who plans as managing director to import the new motorcycles in via the CBU route. Contrary to popular belief, Indian and Victory motorcycles will sell from independent showrooms, not sharing space with ATVs from the same parent company.

It is unknown when the brands will be launched, and which will come first. Indian and Victory motorcycles rely mainly on V-twin configuration engines, which will mean competition for Harley-Davidson, once these new motorcycles are available in the exponentially growing Indian market. That said, HD holds the early bird advantage, and brings most of their motorcycles into India via the more affordable CKD route, giving its motorcycles a pricing edge.

Polaris acquired Indian Motorcycles in 2011 to complement their Victory brand and give direct competition to HD in the cruiser and tourer bike segments.

Polaris India remains tight lipped about further details at this stage. Watch this space for updates!

[Autocar India]

June 28, 2013
KTM launches 390 Duke at Rs. 1.8 Lakh

The much-awaited KTM 390 Duke can be yours now for Rs. 1,80,000 (ex-showroom, Delhi). Bajaj Auto and KTM launched the attractive streetbike today and is expecting a good response from the Indian market. The 390 Duke is aggressively styled with minimalistic body work and an exposed bright orange trellis frame, giving it a very typical KTM look and feel.

The 390 Duke is powered by a four-stroke, single cylinder, 373.2cc engine putting out maximum power of 43bhp at 9500 rpm and peak torque of 3.57kgm at 7250 rpm. The engine is fuel-injected, liquid-cooled and operates using a quartet of valves driven by a twin camshaft. This big Duke gets a six-speed gearbox that shifts in a one-down five-up pattern. In India, the 390 Duke will be sold with a larger radiator.

The bike is equipped with illuminated switchgear, dimpled palm grips, a comfortable set of levers and good mirrors. The compact but comprehensive digital instruments show speed, fuel level, an odometer, trip meters and a tachometer. The 10.2-litre fuel tank offers deeply recessed, appropriate thigh support. A side stand-down warning light is standard. Overall build quality, fit and finish is expectedly great.

The 390 Duke deploys a rigid, steel trellis frame and chunky 43mm diameter front upside down forks developed by suspension specialist WP, and at rear a cast alloy swingarm supporting a monoshock. The suspension setup will be slightly tweaked on the Indian spec bike making it more suitable to harsh Indian road conditions. The 390 Duke uses an ABS enabled 300mm single disc brake in front and 230mm unit at rear, a radial mounted, four piston caliper biting the front, and both controlled by steel-braided hydraulic lines. The bike rides on tubeless Metzeler radial tyres and will be sold through Bajaj’s existing network of 75 Probiking dealers.

Detailed specifications:

Price: Rs 180,000 (ex-showroom, Delhi)

On Sale: July 2013

L/W/H: 2002/873/1267mm

Wheelbase 1367 +/- 15mm

Ground clearance:172mm

Fuel tank capacity: 10.2 litres

Kerb weight: 154kg

Engine layout: Single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, four-stroke

Displacement 373.2cc

Power 44bhp at 9500rpm

Torque 3.57kgm at 7250rpm

Specific output 117.9bhp per litre

Power to weight 285.7bhp per tonne

Gearbox 6-speed, 1-down, 5-up

Front suspension: Upside-down forks

Rear suspension: Monoshock,alloy swingarm

Front brake: 300mm disc

Rear brake: 230mm disc

Wheels: 10-spoke alloy

Rim size (f-r): 17 inches

Tyre size (f-r) :110/70 x 17 / 150/60 x 17 inches

June 25, 2013
Mahi Racing secures double podium finish at Portugal

It’s happy days for MS Dhoni’s Mahi Racing Team India as both its riders, Fabian Foret & Kenan Sofuoglu, finished on the podium in the sixth race of the World Supersport season at Portimao in Portugal. Foret managed to pass two riders in the opening stages after starting from fourth place on the grid and took the lead in the latter half of the race due to the incredible pace of the Mahi Racing bikes. He was overtaken by eventual winner Sam Lowes on Turn 11. Foret tried his best to take back the lead but was unsuccessful in his bid and had to settle for a second place finish.

Reigning champion Sofuoglu had finished the race in third position after qualifying in third place. The Turkish rider however managed to set the fastest lap on lap 12 with a 1: 45.730 minute lap. The result leaves both Mahi Racing riders tied in second place on the championship standings. British rider Sam Lowes leads the table currently with 120 points after four wins on the trot. Nine races remain in the 2013 World Supersport season and both Mahi Racing drivers have enough opportunities to overtake Sam Lowes and win the championship.

June 14, 2013
Mission Motorcycles Launches R and RS Electric Superbikes

Little known manufacturer Mission Motorcycles has announced the launch of two electric superbikes, the R and RS. This means that for about Rs. 17 Lakh (before duties) you can now ride at speeds comparable to 600cc racing bikes albeit using the power of electricity only.

Mission R

Mission Motors was founded in 2007 with the goal of building and selling high performance electric motorcycles. However, when its original design, the Mission One, didn’t achieve enough demand, the company switched to selling electric components and drivetrain development. It was during this time that the idea for the Mission R was conceived, a new entity called Mission Motorcycles was born and now the R and RS have reached the production line.

Mission RS

The motorcycle industry seems to have stagnated, where the biggest headlines are filled with the smallest of improvements. Only by combining the cleanest expression of raw power, provided by an electric powertrain, with the connectivity we’ve come to expect, can anyone truly evolve the motorcycle into the 21st century. And this is precisely our goal.

– Mark Seeger, Mission Motorcycles president

The Mission R comes with an option of 12, 15 & 17 kWh batteries good for 169, 193 and 225 kilometres respectively. It also features fully adjustable Öhlins RT suspension, Brembo monobloc calipers, and Marchesini forged aluminum wheels. The Mission R will set you back a cool $29,999 after federal tax credit (or Rs. 17 Lakh before duties for us here in India). It develops 160bhp, 120lb/ft of torque and can reach over 240 kmph.

Mission R

The Mission RS is a little heavier on the wallet at $60,000 (or Rs. 34 Lakh before duties) but also promises performance to match. The RS is a replica of the bike that set the electric lap record at Laguna Seca in July 2011, while winning the only TTXGP event it was ever entered in and will be limited to 40 units globally. It has the same drivetrain as the R model, but features an Öhlins FGRT fork and BST carbon fiber wheels. It will come with a battery capable of a 225 mile range.

Mission R

The bikes also come with something never seen on a production motorcycle before: an Internet-connected operating system integrating turn-by-turn navigation, an HD video camera with telemetry overlay and integration for wireless HUD. The R will go into production when all 40 of the RS have been delivered.

[Autoblog]

June 4, 2013