Bike Chronicles of India

Sep 27, 2007

3 News from the Indian Two Wheeler World. [Sep 27, 2007]

Two Wheeler News updates: So what's cooking..??

ROYAL ENFIELD:

August 2007 Issue of Bike India Magazine carried a short article along with photos of a Royal Enfield bike with Unit construction which also sports "Fuel Injection"..!! The article stated that the "Fuel Injected - Unit Construction Bullet" will be launched for the international market by the end of this year.

India Bullet Fans would probably have to wait for sometime before they can hope to get their hands on the "Fuel Injected- Unit Construction Engine" Bullet.

According to the Company’s Website:

The new engine is coded as the UCE (Unit Construction Engine). it will be the first Royal Enfield engine with an integrated gearbox mated to the engine that will have an electronic fuel injection.

The engine would be available in 350 cc and 500 cc engine displacements.

This engine is primarily being made to adhere to the strict emission norms (Euro III) that are present in the company's export markets like Europe (Germany, the UK, Switzerland), America and Australia

The September 2007 issue of Autocar India Magazine, also carries a small article along with pics of a Royal Enfield Thunderbird with Twin Spark plugs (a la Bajaj DTS-I like setup).

So what’s up Bajaj..?? Gonna sue Royal Enfield too..??

Royal Enfield CEO RL Ravichandran said:

"Despite being a twin-spark plug engine, our technology is totally opposite from that used by Bajaj Auto and TVS Motors. According to him, “Our engines have valves, while they (Bajaj Auto and TVS Motors) predominantly use overhead cams in their engines"

Sep 25, 2007

3 The Greatest Ever Motorcycle of India.

TBCI selects The Greatest Ever Motorcycle of India..!!

Discovery Chanel had once hosted an episode on it “Greatest Ever” program. The aim this time was to find the “Greatest Ever Motorcycle” that has been built so far.

The final top 10 list consisted of venerable Marques like "Harley Davidson Knucklehead", "Moto Guzzi V8", "Triumph Bonneville", "Honda CB 750" and "Ducati 916".

Any guesses as to which motorcycle won the top slot of the “Best Ever Motorcycle”..??

100 cc Hero Honda Splendor

Well, it isn’t exactly the Hero Honda Splendor which got the top position (as might have been hinted by the photo posted above), but it wasn’t a very different motorcycle either. The motorcycle which was adjusted the “Best Ever Motorcycle” of the World by Discovery Channel was the Honda CUB..!!

About the Honda CUB:

49 cc Honda Cub

Hero Honda CD100/Splendor and the Honda CUB share a common DNA. i.e is the “forward sloping” engine..!!

The Honda CUB is a 49 cc 4-stroke “Step thru” motorcycle first launched by Honda 1958. It is also and the biggest selling motorcycle in history. More than 50 million Honda CUBs have been sold around the world. The model is still in production almost 50 years later and is still the popular mode of transport in many South East Asian countries.

It was this humble 49 cc model which started the eventual Japanese domination of the world motorcycle market which ultimately saw the demise of the once dominant British Motorcycle Industry.

The reason behind the success of the Honda Cub was its engine. The simple 49 cc, 4-stroke engine was extremely fuel efficient, very robust, ultra reliable and almost indestructible. It was the engineering genius of Mr. Sochiro Honda (the founder of Honda) who was responsible for designing the revolutionary engine of the Honda CUB.

After a few years of existence the Honda CUB started to appear in bigger engine capacities of 70 cc and 100 cc.

Find more about the Honda CUB at Wikipedia

Similarity between the Honda CUB and the Hero Honda CD100/Splendor

Apart form the Honda brand which both the models share, the most striking similarity between the Honda CUB and the 100 cc Hero Honda series of motorcycles is actually nestled under the fuel tank. Look closely at the engines of both the models and it will become clear that the Hero Honda CD100/Splendor and the Honda CUB share a common DNA. i.e is the “forward sloping” engine..!!

>> The resale values of the CD100/Splendors are the highest in the second hand market.

>> Competitors (especially Bajaj Auto) have tried to attack the 100 cc Hero Honda models by launching competing models with better features and by even pricing it considerably lower.

>> The competition haven’t succeeded to unsettle the dominance of the CD100/Splendor

This Indian version of the “sloper” engine of Honda has been responsible for revolutionizing the Indian two wheeler scene and was instrumental in helping Indian consumers shift their loyalty from scooters to motorcycles.

Like the virtually indestructible engine of the Honda CUB, the engine of the Hero Honda CD100/Splendor is also the Jewel in the Crown of its manufacturer, Hero Honda. Like the CUB the 100 cc engine of the CD100/Splendor is also extremely reliable, robust and fuel efficient. The engine of the CD100/Splendor is without any doubt the bench mark in terms of fuel efficiency, reliability and an example of sound engineering. No wonder that these 100 cc Hero Honda models still continues to be the largest selling motorcycles in India and that too by commanding a premium over other competing models in its category.

The unmatched quality of these 100 cc Hero Honda motorcycles can be gauged by the fact that the resale values of these models are the highest in the second hand market. Competitors (especially Bajaj Auto) have tried to attack the 100 cc Hero Honda models by launching competing models with better features (alloy wheels, sleeker designs) and by even pricing it considerably lower. But the competition still haven’t found an answer to the dominance of the CD100/Splendor.

The love affair of Indian consumers with the Hero Honda CD100/Splendor goes to show how much quality conscious the Indian Consumer really is. Make a good quality product in India and it will definitely sell. Due credit must be given to Hero Honda for maintaining high levels of quality in manufacturing the 100 cc “sloper” engine.

Engines of the Honda CUB and Hero Honda Splendor

Engines of the Honda CUB and Hero Honda Splendor
Spot the Difference..!!

It has been a fairy tale for Hero Honda so far. The 100 cc “sloper” engine from Honda has already made it the largest manufacturer of motorcycles in the world. The only problem is that this fairy tale might not last fore ever. Sooner or later consumers would start looking for upgrading from the 100 cc segment which still has a 2/3’rd market share in India. In fact the 100 cc segment has already seen a continuous decline in sales this year while at the same time the 125 cc and above segment has shown positive growth.

The Hero Honda CD100/Splendor would probably qualify as the “Greatest Ever Motorcycle of India”

In four wheelers it was the Maruti 800 which was responsible for putting the middle class Indian family on roads. At one point there seemed to be no alternative to the Maruti 800, but the Alto (again from Maruti) has shown that given a better alternative, the market will shift its loyalties to a better product (provided the demand is there) at the appropriate price.

Similarly the Hero Honda CD100/Splendor has been responsible for putting the Indian motorcyclist on roads. Only time will tell whether the present slump in 100 cc sales indicates that the time has come for the Hero Honda CD100/Splendor to make way for its successor. Logically thinking a 125 cc motorcycle should be the next step for Indian Motorcycles.

125 cc Bajaj XCD

125 cc Bajaj XCD

Bajaj have already fired their latest salvo in the form of the 125 cc XCD (which is based on a NEW engine platform and not on the earlier 4S Champion, Caliber, Boxer, CT100, Platina engine).

125 cc Hero Honda Super Splendor

125 cc Hero Honda Super Splendor

Hero Honda can try to repeat the same in the motorcycle segment in India what Maruti has done with its Alto. It does have a product ace up its sleeve in the form of the 125 cc Super Splendor with the Quantum Core (whatever that might mean) engine, which is actually another variant of the original Honda CUB “sloper” engine. Lets see how well Hero Honda plays its cards this time.

Only time will unfold what’s in store for the Indian Motorcycling Story. Whatever might be the future, the Hero Honda CD100/Splendor would probably qualify as the “Greatest Ever Motorcycle of India”.

At least till date.

Indian Two Wheeler Industry.. Evolution or Revolution..??

Amazing story of how Munjal built Hero Honda

Hero Honda, the "First Hero" among Indian bike manufacturers

My Choice in the 100 C.C Motorcycle Range

When will the Fuel Injected Hero Honda Karizma "Fi" arrive..??

The inspiring story behind the Birth of the Bajaj "Pulsar"..!!

Readers vote The Bajaj Pulsar as the "Bike which Defines India's 60 years of Independence"

Bajaj Pulsar, an excercise in "Trial & Error"..??

Disclaimer:

Sep 24, 2007

3 The Bike Chronicles of India gets a MILLION Page Views..!!

The Bike Chronicles gets a million Page Views in its first year of Existence..!!

Just last month "TBCI" had celebrated its first anniversary. "TBCI" crosses another milestone this month by getting a total of a Million (10,00,000) page views in its first year..!!

I would like to thank the readers of TBCI for making this possible. The photo posted below shows the stats of TBCI in its first year.

Thanks a Million..!!

Disclaimer:

Sep 19, 2007

13 When will the Fuel Injected Hero Honda Karizma "Fi" arrive..??

Why hasn't the Hero Honda Karizma arrived so far..?? Lets try to find some answers..

Flashback: Early 2006

Just after Bajaj displayed its Fuel Injected Pulsar 220 DTS-Fi at the 2006 Auto Expo, there were rumors and speculations abuzz that soon Hero Honda would also launch a Fuel Injected version of its Karizma. After all Bajaj had stolen the thunder from Hero Honda.

Disclaimer: "I cannot give the guarantee of the veracity of these deductions. But I believe that the following observations are far better to explain the current state of events rather than just pure speculation.."

Rumors of a Fuel Injected Karizma became stronger when Hero Honda launched the 125 cc Glamour PGM-Fi. Never mind if the Glamour PGM-Fi was priced equal to a substantially more powerful 150 cc bike. Also never mind the fact that I did not get to see any PGM-Fi Glamour on road.

What it meant was the Hero Honda took the honors of being the First Indian Motorcycle Manufacturer to officially launch “Fuel Injection” tech in India. It also kept the hopes of thousands of “desi bikers” of our country alive that the Karizma “Fi” could just be around the corner anytime soon.

After all if Hero Honda could give a 125 cc bike Fuel Injection..?? Why would it shy away from giving its flagship model “Karizma” the same treatment..??

Welcome up to the Present World: Mid 2007

Things haven’t changed much. The 125 cc Glamour PGM-Fi is still available for sale and I have yet to see one of those on the road till date.

Hero Honda Glamour Fi

So why haven’t the Karizma “Fi” arrived..?? Instead of speculation, let us try to find some answers

In the meantime Bajaj has launched its Fuel Injected Pulsar DTS-Fi 220 (albeit with some delays) and yours truly has gone ahead and booked a Red one too. And oh yes, still no signs of the “Fuel Injected” Karizma. But you do get a new set of stickers along with a plastic engine guard, red shocks and yellow colored speedometer assembly to boot.

In order to get some answers, I just type the words “Hero Honda Karizma Fi” on Google and hit the search button. To my amusement I find that the first link on Google Search for “Hero Honda Karizma Fi” is the link of “The Bike Chronicles of India”..!!

Karizma "Fi" on Google Search

Ok, so this time I try “Hero Honda Karizma Fuel Injection”.. and Bingo..!! “TBCI” has the first link again..!! I try one more time with “Fuel Injected Hero Honda Karizma”.. and guess what..?? The first link on Google Search is again of TBCI..!!

The TBCI link that was appearing in Google was of a post which was published on 4'th November 2006. This post was about a small article found in an issue of Overdrive India. That article was about rumors of Hero Honda preparing a Karizma “Fi”.

Aahh..!! The Evil that Auto Magazines do…

Why hasn’t the Fuel Injected Karizma arrived..??

The real answer can only be given by the big bosses of Hero Honda. All I can say that by not launching a Fuel Injected Karizma, Hero Honda is losing a huge opportunity here.

There is a long waiting list of “desi-bikers” at the Pro Biking Showroom at Bangalore. These folks are waiting for their turn to book the Pulsar DTS-Fi 220. If this wasn’t enough, Bajaj is enjoying a situation where guys are even willing to wait for 60-90 days after booking. This is what happens when you don’t have a competition.

So why haven’t the Karizma “Fi” arrived..?? Instead of speculation, let us try to find some answers.

Origin of the Hero Honda Karizma:

The Karizma was launched in 2003. Like the other offerings of Hero Honda, Honda was responsible for providing the Hero Group with the technical know-how. Now did Honda design the engine of the Karizma especially for Hero Honda and for the Indian market..??

Honda CRF230F

In a bid to search for the origins of the Karizma, I came across a model from Honda called the CRF230F. The CRF230F is basically a 4 stroke dirt bike from Honda and sold in countries like Brazil where off road bikes are quite popular. Now by going through the official specs of the CRF230 and comparing it to the specs of the Karizma, it looks that both the engines share the same DNA. Published below are the tech specs of the CRF230 and the Karizma. Even the two engine blocks look similar.

2008 Honda CRF230F Specifications

Press Release

2008 Hero Honda Karizma Specifications

So it looks very much likely that Honda took the engine from the CRF230, did some rework on it and launched it as the Karizma in India. If this is true then it is bad news for “desi bikers” waiting for the Karizma “FI”.

This is because until recently, Fuel Injection hasn’t been quite popular with Dirt Bikes. Dirt Bikes need to be light and usually have simple mechanicals. Only recently Suzuki has launched Fuel Injection for its 2008 RMZ450 dirt bike. Yamaha also has plans of Fuel Injection for its 2008 international range of dirt bikes viz. the Yamaha WR250R and WR250X .

Meanwhile official press releases from Honda for its 2008 CRF230 specs reveal that the CRF230 would still feature the carburetor and NOT fuel Injection.

But what about the 125 cc Glamour PGM-Fi..??

Actually, Honda has engines as small as 50 cc with fuel injection technology. The present 125 cc engine found on the Hero Honda Super Splendor and the Glamour looks quite similar to the 125 cc engines found in the Honda Step Thru’s sold in a few South East Asian countries. In fact the PGM-Fi technology can be found on a 125 cc Step Thru called the Wave 125i sold in Thailand. The Honda Wave engine also looks quite similar to the engine found on the Hero Honda Glamour.

Honda Wave 125

So it looks like Honda has transferred its PGM-Fi technology from the Wave Step Thru’s of Thailand and plonked it on the Glamour in India. After all why reinvent the wheel when you have a perfectly good set of wheels at your disposal..??

PGM-Fi technology on the Honda Wave 125i

Source: Honda World Website

What about the Future prospects for a Karizma "Fi"..??

I am certainly not aware of the management decisions of Hero Honda or Honda. Nor do I give the guarantee of the veracity of the above deductions of mine. But I believe that these observations are far better to explain the current state of events rather than just pure speculation.

If the above observations are correct then probably our “desi” bikers would have to wait (for a 230-250 cc Fuel Injected Motorcycle from Honda/Hero Honda) till..

Honda launches the CRF230 Dirt Bike with Fuel Injection (likely but at least not in 2008) or

Honda launches a 230-250 cc step thru with PGM-Fi for South East Asian Countries (very unlikely as Step Thru’s engines so far haven’t crossed 135 cc) or

Hero Honda decides to invest into R&D of its own ( ???? ) or

Maybe “desi” bikers should/shouldn’t expect an all new 230/250/300 cc model from Honda/Hero Honda.

Now can you tell me which could be the most likely scenario among these..??

Will the "Yamaha Fazer 250" and "Honda CBX 250 Twister" be ever launched in India..??

New Bikes from TVS: Fuel Injected Apache RTR EFI, 125 cc Flame, 110 cc Star City and Electric Powered Scooty Teenz

Booked the Beast (Finally)..!!

Disclaimer:

Sep 18, 2007

1 The New TV Commercial of the 125 cc Bajaj XCD DTS-Si

The new TV Ad for the 125 cc Bajaj DTS-Si XCD looks cool and grabs your attention..

Screenshot of the Bajaj XCD TV Ad

The main Functions of an advertisement are..

To secure attention

To arouse interest

To bring about conviction

To produce action

To impress the memory

Here is my personal take on the TV Commercial/Advertisement of the 125 cc Bajaj XCD DTS-Si..

To its credit the TV Commercial of the Bajaj XCD manages to do all this quite well without even uttering a single word..!!

The advertisement definitely grabs your attention. The presentation is unique and execution is slick. The TV commercial is of international standards.

After grabbing the attention, the commercial will surely generate interest of the viewer to go through the 60 seconds.

Bajaj has recently taken a branding initiative under which they are using the Tag Line "Distinctly Ahead" along with the Bajaj Brand. Bajaj hopes that this will in turn bring about conviction in all the products that Bajaj produces and not just the Pulsar.

The TV Commercial definitely lingers in the memory long after you have seen the ad.

Additionally the commercial has to show the various features of the product. All this has to be accomplished within a span of about 60 seconds.

To its credit the TV Commercial of the Bajaj XCD manages to do all this quite well without even uttering a single word..!!

So far so good...

Screenshot of the Bajaj XCD TV Ad

But will consumers reach out for their check books and accept the new Bajaj 125 cc DTS-Si XCD..?? Only time will tell.

Till then have a look at the following TV Commercial/Advertisement and try to deduce it for yourself.

Bajaj XCD 125 cc generates public interest, Bajaj to cease Discover 112 and 125 cc models

XCD, The new 125 cc from Bajaj [Pics/Tech Specs]

Bajaj Auto Vs. TVS Motors: "Yeh Patent Ka Mamla Hai..!!"

125 CC TVS FLAME (With CCV-Ti Engine) HOT..!! HOT..!! HOT..!! [Wallpapers & Tech Specs]

New 125 C.C Bajaj "Exceed" with "DTS-Si" Engine launched

Disclaimer:

Sep 13, 2007

17 New 2008 Bajaj Pulsar (UG IV)..??

Received a few photos in my mailbox today.. Is it the 2008 Bajaj Pulsar UG IV variant..??

Upside Down Front Forks..!!

Bigger Sculpted and Aggressive looking tank..!!

I am sure that after getting your heart pumping and your pulses racing with the above photos/pics, I know this is going to be a cruel blow. But sorry guys, the photos posted above are actually of a modified Pulsar DTS-i 180..!!.

And the most interesting fact is that, this piece of art has originated from Indonesia..!!

Indonesia, the third largest two-wheeler market in the world after China and India is basically a market dominated by step thru two wheelers. But like India there is also a niche category of Motorcycle enthusiasts. It is this segment that Bajaj Auto is hoping to cater to with its Pulsar DTS-i 180 model which has been on sale in Indonesia since November 2006.

Carbon Fibre Finish

The above modifications carried out on the Indonesian Pulsar DTSi 180 goes to show the common tastes that bikers in Indonesia and India share.

The following modifications have been carried out on the Indonesian Pulsar DTSi 180..

Upside Down front forks

Monoshock at the rear

Tank Shrouds to give the bike a "Big" feel

Oversized front Disc Brakes

Rear Disc Brakes (the original front brake has been used here)

Integrated Turn indicators front/back

Half Chain Cover (Finished in "Carbon Fibre" look)

Split Rear Grab Rails (Finished in "Carbon Fibre" look)

Removable Pillion Seat Cover (Finished in "Carbon Fibre" look)
A Custom Paint Job

110 section front/120 section rear, Bridgestone tyres

Details of Modifications

From the pictures the order of workmanship seems to be professional and of high order.

Upside Down forks, Monoshock, a Big Sharp Sculpted tank, special colors..?? And how about a FEAR THE "CARBON FIBRE BLACK" LOOK for the Pulsar UG IV..??

The mods were carried out by "Caprin Racing" of Surabaya, Indonesia. The total cost incurred for the entire modifications apart from the donor bike was around Rs. 40,000-42,000 (Indian Currency).

In the past all I have published were a few computer generated pictures of bikes which were either mailed to me by TBCI readers or downloaded from other websites or blogs which were created using photo editing software. Most of these pictures again have been of the Pulsar created by Indonesians. Let me make this clear that this shouldn’t be interpreted in any way that TBCI is biased towards Bajaj.

Thanks to "Caprin Racing", this time I could publish photos of a real and excellent modification job. The Bike Chronicles of India thanks Caprin Racing of Indonesia for sharing these photos with us.

Over to you Bajaj Auto:

Well now..!! When Bajaj decides to bring out the Pulsar UG IV variant (with TVS getting aggressive, I believe that is going to be soon), won't you like to see something similar..??

Upside Down forks, Monoshock, a Big Sharp Sculpted tank, special colors..?? And how about a FEAR THE "CARBON FIBRE BLACK" LOOK this time around..??

Digitally Altered/Created Bikes pics send in by Visitors of "Bike Chronicles of India"

From Indonesia with Love. Digitally Altered Pulsar DTS-Fi 220 by Aziz

Bajaj Pulsar 200 DTSI with Monoshock..??

New Bajaj Pulsar 220 DTSFi, Modified Pics/Images

Disclaimer:

3 Want a ride on "Arjun" from "Mahabharat"..??

Want to ride "Arjun" from "Mahabharat"..??

Very soon you will be able to able to walk into a showroom probably in the Eastern part of India somewhere in Bihar, Jharkhand or West Bengal and walk out with “Arjun” and be part of Mahabharat.

No, I am not talking about B.R Chopra’s Mahabharat, the famous TV series of yesteryears based on the Indian Epic. You aren’t getting to watch a rerun of it on TV either.

But somewhere in West Bengal in a sleepy place called Uluberia, three foreign corporations are hoping to write another epic in the Indian Two wheeler Market by launching a brand called "MAHABHARAT MOTORS"..!!

If you though that was funny, wait till you hear this..

The name of their first offering will be called.. hold your breadth..!! ARJUN..!!

The website of Mahabharat Motors is up and running. The three parties involved in this venture are..

Salim Group of Indonesia

Dalerna Limited (Universal Success Group of Singapore)

Zongshen Industrial Group of China

From the information obtained from the website, construction of the factory has started. The completion of the factory is expected to be arond March 2008 and commercial production is expected around September 2008.

Among these trio only "Zongshen Group" of China has two wheeler making experience. So after Global Motors, Mahabharat Motors will be the second company to bring in Chinese Bikes in India.

Zongshen is actually one of the largest two wheeler makers of China. It even has it presence in Eurpoe. The photo published below is the flagship model of Zongshen Group called the ZS 250 GS.

230 cc, Zongshen ZS 250 GS

I just can't imagine someone buying something like the ZS 250 GS and flaunt it in front of your friends and say that you ride a "Mahabharat"..!!

However, do not harbor any hope of laying your hands on the ZS 250 GS hoping it will be the usual Chinese low priced product. At least no so soon. The initial offereings of "Mahabharat Motors" will be sold only in select regions of..

West Bengal

Orissa

Bihar (selected areas)

Jharkhand

So the initial models will be targetted to the rural and semi urban consumers. Well in that case, the brand name "Arjun" for a basically rural offering isn't that bad an idea.

But then, I just can't imagine someone buying something like the ZS 250 GS and flaunt it in front of your friends and say that you ride a "Mahabharat" (like the way you say when you ride a Honda or a Bajaj)..!!

So what say..?? Want to ride a "Mahabharat"..??

Global Auto rolls out its first Indo-China Bike from West Bengal

Disclaimer:

Sep 11, 2007

13 Bajaj XCD 125 cc generates public interest, Bajaj to cease Discover 112 and 125 cc models

Internet search indicates that the 125 cc has caught the fancy of the Public... Bajaj to cease Discover 110/125 cc models

The 125 cc is the Next big thing...!!

No, I am not merely repeating what most of the industry experts are saying about the future of Indian Two Wheeler Industry. I am actually saying this with more conviction since I have myself seen some tangible proof of it..!!

Mr. Rajiv Bajaj on 125 cc Bajaj XCD

Pic: From Rearset's Blog

Why am I saying so..??

I keep a regular tab of the number of daily page views of TBCI (The Bike Chronicles of India) by an online service called "Statcounter". This month has been a raise in the number of page views thanks to the new releases by TVS Motors and Bajaj Auto. The daily average has been around 6,000-7,000 page views. But on 10’th September 2007 (yesterday), the number of page views of TBCI shot to an unprecedented high of 17,012..!! Even today (a day after) the number of page views has been more than regular days (at 20:27 hrs).

Page View Stats of the Bike Chronicles of India

It goes to show how Bajaj Auto has been successful in creating hype over the 125 cc XCD

This sudden spike was due to maximum traffic coming from Google Search, majority of which were searching for the new launch of the 125 cc Bajaj XCD with the DTS-Si engine.

Till now I was of the opinion that majority of the search in the internet was limited to the premium segment (150 cc of above) models only. Now this incident has shown that the consumer is definitely getting interested in the 125 cc segment and searching about it on the internet too.

Bajaj XCD has generated more public interest than the TVS Flame (at least so far):

Also it shows that the TV Commercial/Teaser of the 125 cc Bajaj XCD has been a success since it has generated the interest among the consumer. Even the launch of the 125 CC Flame from TVS hasn’t generated such spikes in the number of page views of TBCI.

But this may well be the reason because unlike the Bajaj XCD, there hasn’t been any TV Commercial of the Flame so far. That means not many must have been informed about the TVS Flame so far. It goes to show how Bajaj Auto has been successful in creating hype over the 125 cc XCD.

Nevertheless the unprecedented spike in the number of page views of TBCI also goes to show that the common public is starting to take more interest in the 125 cc segment.

Bajaj Auto to discontinue the Discover 112 and the Discover DTSi 125:

Following with the launch of the XCD comes the news that Bajaj Auto is ceasing the production of the Discover 112 and the Discover DTSi 125. The Discover hadn’t been selling that well. As admitted by Mr. Rajiv Bajaj himself, Bajaj Auto was selling less than 5,000 Discover 112 per month (read about it here..). This leaves only the Discover DTSi 135 as the production model holding the Discover brand name. Read about it here..

With the decision to discontinue the 112 and 125 cc models of the Discover, Bajaj Auto has made it clear that it will target the entry level 125 cc segment with its XCD, priced attractively at Rs. 41-42K (Ex-Showroom Pune) which is close to the price tag of the 100 cc Hero Honda Splendor.

The Discover DTS-i 135 must have been successful for Bajaj since they are planning to continue with this particular model. At least in Bangalore City I have witnessed quite a few Discover DTS-I 135 cc models pottering around.

Note:

Don't be fooled by the above photo of the Bajaj XCD in thinkng that the XCD is dimunitive in size. Mr. Rajiv Bajaj actually happens to be quite a tall and well built guy. Shown below is a screen shot which clearly shows his tall stature.

Mr. Rajiv Bajaj at an Award Function

XCD, The new 125 cc from Bajaj [Pics/Tech Specs]

Video of the HOT 125 CC TVS Flame..!! [Videos]

125 CC TVS FLAME (With CCV-Ti Engine) HOT..!! HOT..!! HOT..!! [Wallpapers & Tech Specs]

New 125 C.C Bajaj "Exceed" with "DTS-Si" Engine launched

Honda India has 100/125 C.C plans. Can we please have the CBR 150R too..??

New 2007 Honda Shine (125 C.C) [Pics/Images/Tech specs]

Bajaj Discover DTSi 135 C.C on Bajaj's Website now

Global Auto rolls out its first Indo-China Bike from West Bengal

Suzuki India launches 3 Variants of its 125 C.C motorcycle range

New Yamaha Gladiator "Type J.A" 125 c.c with Alloys (Pics/Images)

Disclaimer:

Sep 9, 2007

12 XCD, The new 125 cc from Bajaj [Pics/Tech Specs]

Bajaj launches the 125 cc DTS-Si "XCD"..

As promised, Bajaj has launched its much hyped 125 cc Bajaj XCD (earlier speculated as the “Exceed” or “Xceed”) today on the 9’th of September 2007. The pictures of the XCD that you see below have been downloaded from Bajaj Auto’s website.

The 125 cc XCD is a very important bike for Bajaj. Bajaj is taking one more shot at Numero Uno Hero Honda in an attempt to replace its best selling 100 cc Hero Honda Splendor. Bajaj hopes that the extra feature laden XCD with its new engine would be able to lure away customers looking at 100 cc bikes.

Styling:

In an attempt to lower manufacturing costs, most of the Bajaj bikes usually share parts with one another. This definitely results in lower prices but also results in lack of exclusivity for the bikers.

Now only if the TVS Flame hadn't raised our expectations with its fresh and sexy styling

The Headlamp is sharp looking and positioned low to give that crouching look. The XCD also features a Digital Display for a speedometer. The side panels and the tail piece though have been designed for the XCD, looks like have been inspired by the Discover’s side panels and the tail piece of the Pulsar. The tail lamp features LEDs which is a first for any 125 cc bike in India. The tank has plastic extensions like the Pulsar 200. Apart from the aesthetics, I doubt if it is of any practical use. Now, does the tank look a bit familiar to you..?? No, it’s not the Discover’s tank but actually looks quite similar to the “Sonic” concept shown by Bajaj at Auto Expo 2006.

Bajaj XCD 125 DTS-Si Features

The XCD incorporates the all black theme made popular by the Bajaj Pulsar 180 and the Pulsar 200 and seems to be the latest fad now among bike makers. Stickers on the tank make sure that everybody takes notice that it is the “Bajaj XCD 125”. The bike also incorporates a Electric Starter.

But it has to be said that even though Bajaj has tried to give the XCD a new look, the XCD looks very much similar to the Discover (at least in the pictures) and its no where are fresh a design as the TVS Flame. Although it might be unfair to compare the TVS Flame and the Bajaj XCD , the 125 cc TVS Flame has raised the bar for styling quite high.

Engine:

Bajaj has given the XCD a new engine with the much touted DTS-Si (Digital Twin Spark Plug – Swirl Induction) Technology. According to Bajaj the new DTS-Si should give 109 Km/l (under ideal test conditions of course). The engine also produces 9.53 Ps of power and 10.85 Nm of torque.

Folding Number Plate:

Quality of the photos of the Bajaj XCD were not as impressive as the quality of the photos/wallpapers of the TVS Flame.

The website design of the Flame is far more exciting than the website for the Bajaj XCD

A unique feature of the XCD is the “Folding Number Plate”. Instead of a rigidly fixed number plate, a flexible mechanism has been created. Now what happens is that whenever the front suspension of the bike encounters a bump, the number plate swings to and fro so that the LOW headlamp has enough clearance. The benefit of this innovative feature according to Bajaj is that the Headlamp can now be set really low.
Amusing feature I’d say. But I’d actually prefer less loose parts on my bike. Anyway Bajaj has applied for a patent for this unique feature.

Price:

According to news reports, Bajaj has priced the XCD at around Rs. 41,000-42,000 (Ex-Showroom) which puts it bang in the Splendor category. Bajaj wants to wean away the 100 cc consumers towards the 125 cc XCD. Therefore such a pricing was expected.

Initial Impression:

The XCD looks like a welcome addition to the promising 125 motorcycle segment. Bajaj has timed the launch of the XCD just before the festive season begins. Bajaj is expected to follow the launch of the XCD with a massive promotional blitz. TV Commercials already proclaim that the 125 cc DTS-Si engine will soon have a bike for it on 10’th September 2007.

Only time will tell how good the125 cc DTS-Si engine is in terms of power, fuel efficiency and reliability. If Bajaj really wants to take splendors place then it really has to ”Exceed” in all these parameters.

Now only if the TVS Flame hadn't raised our expectations with its fresh and sexy styling.

One more thing I would like to mention is that the quality of the photos of the Bajaj XCD were not as impressive as the quality of the photos/wallpapers of the TVS Flame. Moreover the website design of the TVS Flame is far more exciting than the website for the Bajaj XCD. Probably Bajaj also should look into these small matters as well.

Tech Specs of the Bajaj DTS-Si XCD 125:

Engine: 125 cc, 4 Stroke, DTS-Si

Max Power: 9.53 Ps @ 7000 rpm

Max Torque: 10.85 Nm @ 5000 rmp

Front/Rear Wheels: Alloys

Front Tyre: 2.75 X 17

Rear Tyre: 3.00 x 17

Video of the HOT 125 CC TVS Flame..!! [Videos]

125 CC TVS FLAME (With CCV-Ti Engine) HOT..!! HOT..!! HOT..!! [Wallpapers & Tech Specs]

New 125 C.C Bajaj "Exceed" with "DTS-Si" Engine launched

Honda India has 100/125 C.C plans. Can we please have the CBR 150R too..??

New 2007 Honda Shine (125 C.C) [Pics/Images/Tech specs]

Bajaj Discover DTSi 135 C.C on Bajaj's Website now

Suzuki India launches 3 Variants of its 125 C.C motorcycle range

New Yamaha Gladiator "Type J.A" 125 c.c with Alloys (Pics/Images)

Disclaimer:

Sep 7, 2007

15 Is the following "Comment" authentic..??

A Pulsar 200 owner has left a comment in "The Bike Chronicles of India".. it is it a Genuine one..??

Guys,

i own a P200 (Bajaj Pulsar 200) well maintained,

the bike has let me down in terms of performance, to start with it doesnt cross 110kmph, secondly mileage 29 -30 kmpl (i expected 40, BAL guys said it gives 40 kmpl after all it is not a super bike)

then last of all the bike doesnt start when raining it is realy worse...and thanks to BAL there is no kick (i know SBKS dont come with kick) but can we realy trust BAL technology to go ahead without kick.....

i would never recommend any UG3 version BAL bikes...i am planing to go for a new bike...

-- Sumit

This was a comment left by a guy supposedly called "Sumit" in this blog. But a voice in the back of my mind told me that something is wrong with this comment.

To start with, the comment was left in the post about a Drag Race between the Pulsar 220 and the Karizma. So why this unrelated comment about the Pulsar 200 in this particular post..?

Second: It sounds more like a "Public Service" message rather than an earnest grievance of a frustrated owner.

Third: I have seen a few Jerks in action in a few auto related internet forums whose sole purpose in life is to despise any Indian made two wheeler.

Just because I have an access to the internet and I have my freedom of speech does not not imply that I can say anything I want.

Voicing one's opinion is fine but posting false allegations is definitely a no no.

There is already a lot of "Noise" on the internet in the form of wrong information and baseless rumours. The "Bike Chronicles of India" gets above of 1,00,000 page views in a month. It is therefor my responsibility to check to the best of my ability that whatever information is published here is authentic. "The Bike Chronicles of India" shouldn't add to this "Noise".

Since there wasn't any proof accompanying the above comment, I decided not to publish it.

For the record even I can say: "I bought a Hero Honda CBZ for Rs. 66,000 in 1999. The bike couldn't cross 105 Km/hr. At around 100 Km/hr the bike used to wobble uncontrollably. The bike never gave me above 35 km/l. At high rpms the engine was very harsh and sounded as if it would sieze anytime. The handling of the bike suffered from understeer, one of my friend even crashed the bike since he couldn't finish a turn and due to which I hit a concrete slab on my chest since I was at the pillion seat.

But then where do I have the proof to justify whatever I have said above..? I could very well be telling lies just because I might want to tarnish the reputation of Hero Honda for some inexplicable reasons.

Just because I have an access to the internet and I have my freedom of speech does not not imply that I can say anything I want. Voicing one's opinion is fine but posting false allegations is definitely a no no.

Let me make it public for anyone who wants to leave a comment at "TBCI", either furnish proof along with such comments or please shut up..!!

Disclaimer:

Sep 6, 2007

3 Bajaj Auto Vs. TVS Motors: "Yeh Patent Ka Mamla Hai..!!"

Bajaj Auto and TVS are engaged in a blame game.. which is a good sign for the Indian Two Wheeler Industry..!!

Bajaj Auto Ko Gussa Kyun aata hai..?? (Why is Bajaj auto getting upset..??)

I remember a comic scene from the Hindi Comedy movie “Hungama”, in which the two male protagonists get into a verbal scuffle over.. well, a girl of course. In that particular scene the two characters try to size up each other. So instead of the usual Bollywood fare of blood and gore the scene ultimately culminates into nothing but a war of words without even a single blow being landed.

This incident might just mark the beginning of a long battle between the two two-wheeler giants of India.

Should such a situation arise then let me tell you that would be the best thing to happen to the Indian Two wheeler industry

The last few days have witnessed an almost similar spectacle between Bajaj Auto and TVS Motors. The only difference between the movie and this corporate duel is that instead of a pretty damsel, the bone of contention in this case has been a technology which Bajaj has christened as “DTS-I”. According to Bajaj Auto, TVS Motors has violated the Intellectual Property (IP) rights with its soon to be launched “CCV-Ti” range of engines, which like the Bajaj “DTS-I” engines also happen to sport two spark plugs for the single cylinder engine.

Read about this incident here, here, here and here..

So far both the two auto makers have made public that they would take each other to court. Bajaj Auto says that they will file against TVS if they go ahead with the CCV-Ti engine. On the other hand TVS retorts by stating that they’ll sue Bajaj Auto for their “malicious remarks” against TVS Motors. It remains to be seen whether this episode actually results in either of the parties dragging the other to court.

Bike Wars ahead

Mark my words; this incident might just mark the beginning of a long battle between the two two-wheeler giants of India. Should such a situation arise then let me tell you that would be the best thing to happen to the Indian Two wheeler industry since the opening up of the Indian economy in 1991.

Why is this good for the Indian Two Wheeler Industry..?

Both TVS and Bajaj Auto have survived the post liberalization phase and have been successful to ward off threats from the Japanese Competitors. It’s no more a question of survival for these two bike makers. Now they are gunning for supremacy here. Regardless of whosoever wins the verdict (if they ever happen to go to the court) both these companies stand to gain in the long run.

This particular controversy between Bajaj Auto and TVS Motors might be a small step for either of the two wheeler manufacturer but it can act as a catalyst responsible for a giant leap for the Indian two wheeler industry

After the Second World War there was a race for military and technological supremacy between the USA and the erstwhile USSR. If USSR took the honors of putting Yuri Gagarin as the first man in the space, USA managed to land Neil Armstrong on the lunar surface. This mad race for military and technological supremancy resulted in tremendous advancement in science and technology. Come to think of it, even the internet was born due to this cold war.

Similarly this particular controversy between Bajaj Auto and TVS Motors might be a small step for either of the two wheeler manufacturer but it can act as a catalyst responsible for a giant leap for the Indian two wheeler industry.

From now on both TVS and Bajaj Auto will try to outdo the other with each new launch. The styling and the designs are only going to get better; the engines are only going to get more powerful; and if this isn’t enough the prices are also going to remain competitive.

Hey..!! It’s not just Bajaj and TVS who make up the Indian Two Wheeler Industry

Oh, I am sorry I almost forgot Hero Honda, the number one two wheeler manufacturer of the world; plus the global giants Honda, Suzuki and Yamaha. I understand they are in India too.

But I also understand that Hero Honda doesn’t have an R&D of its own and has to depend on Honda for even minor modifications. On the other hand Honda is a Goliath of the global two wheeler industry. Its international R&D has to be busy to satisfy the rich “videsi” clientele. How can it possibly devote so much attention for designing bikes for a poor “desi” biker like me? So like THEY HAVE DONE IN THE PAST, they’ll probably AGAIN have to rummage through whatever is available in their present lineup of products from other developing countries and hope to make the best use of it. Ditto for Suzuki and Yamaha.

Dare I expect more from them..? By the way Honda does intend to release 3-4 models in the next 3 years, including a 100 cc model. Read about it here.. Yaaawwn...

But one has to compliment on the quality of the products of these Japanese bike makers. In fact their quiet (pun intended) presence has made sure that both Bajaj and TVS cannot err too much on the quality of their products. But they have also set standards on how Bajaj and TVS shouldn’t style their bikes. Thank you very much for your contribution. Please do stick around though. If possible please prove me wrong at the Auto Expo 2008. I’ll be more than happy to eat my own words.

Amen..

I sincerely hope that this Bajaj Vs. TVS battle is a long one. Just can’t wait for the curtains to be lifted from Auto Expo 2008, New Delhi.

Disclaimer:

Sep 4, 2007

0 Video of the HOT 125 CC TVS Flame..!! [Videos]

Video of the TVS Flame..

Happened to stumble upon this video of the new 125 cc TVS Flame on You Tube. The intro of the video says "Confidential Not for Public Viewing".

That's actually hillarious considering the same video is available on the website for the TVS Flame. Probably someone intend's to use negative psychology and make sure that everyone has to WATCH the video of the TVS Flame. I doubt if the video of the TVS Flame has been uploaded by someone from Hosur..

Looking at the sexy design of the TVS Flame, one needn't worry that anyone is going to resist having a look at the bike. Kudos to TVS for desiging such a stunner. But I personally would have been more happy to see the Apache RTR in this guise actually.

Now please, sit back and enjoy the video..

Disclaimer:

Sep 3, 2007

17 125 CC TVS FLAME (With CCV-Ti Engine) HOT..!! HOT..!! HOT..!! [Wallpapers & Tech Specs]

Wallpapers of the soon to be launched 125 CC TVS Flame with CCV-Ti engine, Possibly the most good looking bike in the country

The 125 cc TVS Flame: His Royal Hotness..!!

Tank mounted turn indicators of the 125 cc TVS Flame

Digital Speedometers of the 125 cc TVS Flame

Exhaust of the 125 cc TVS Flame

Tail Lamps of the 125 cc TVS Flame

The Headlamp of the 125 cc TVS Flame

Technical Specifications of the TVS Flame:

The TVS Apache has a wheelbase of 1300 mm

The Bajaj Pulsar has a wheelbase of 1320 mm

The TVS Flame CCV-Ti has a wheelbase of 1320 mm..!!

The Wheelbase of the Flame is bigger than the Apache and as big as the Bajaj Pulsar..!!

Engine

Engine (CC): 124.8 CC, 4 Stroke with CCV-Ti

Max Power: 10.5 bhp @ 8250 rpm

Max Torque: 10 Nm @ 6250 rpm

Gear Box: 4 Speed

Bore X Stroke: 54.5 X 53.5

Carburettor Type: VM Type- Ucal

Wheels/Tyres

Wheels Type: Mag alloys

Front Tyre: 90 X 90 X 17

Rear Tyre: 90 X 90 X 18

Brake - Front: 230 mm disc

Brake - Rear: 130 mm drum

With looks and specs like these, the TVS Flame will probably be positioned as a premium 125 cc offering.

The soon to be launched 125 cc Exceed from Bajaj will cater to the entry level 125 cc segment.

But after looking at the pics of the Flame, I doubt that anyone is going to look at any other 125 cc bike.

Supension:

Front: Telescopic

Rear: 5 Step Adjustable, Gas Filled

Dimensions

Wheelbase: 1320 mm

Overall Height: 1070 mm

Overall Length: 2030 mm

Overall Width: 760 mm

Ground Clearance: 165 mm

Kerb Weight: 121 Kg

Fuel Tank: 8.0 litre

Fuel Reserve: 2.0 litre

Honda, Hero Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha please wake up or you are seriously at risk of being left far behind..!!

Electricals

Headlamp: 12V 35/35 W Halogen

Tail Lamp: 12V 21W/5W

Turn Indicators: 12V 16 W

Battery: 12V- 5 Ah

Ignition System: IDI System

Wallpapers and Tech Specs: From TVS Flame Website..

New Bikes from TVS: Fuel Injected Apache RTR EFI, 125 cc Flame, 110 cc Star City and Electric Powered Scooty Teenz

New 125 C.C Bajaj "Exceed" with "DTS-Si" Engine launched

Honda India has 100/125 C.C plans. Can we please have the CBR 150R too..??

New 2007 Honda Shine (125 C.C) [Pics/Images/Tech specs]

Bajaj Discover DTSi 135 C.C on Bajaj's Website now

Bajaj Discover 125 C.C gets the Black Treatment

Suzuki India launches 3 Variants of its 125 C.C motorcycle range

New Yamaha Gladiator "Type J.A" 125 c.c with Alloys (Pics/Images)

Global Auto rolls out its first Indo-China Bike from West Bengal

5 Reasons for You to Upgrade from 100 C.C to 125 C.C bikes

Disclaimer:

Sep 2, 2007

8 New Bikes from TVS: Fuel Injected Apache RTR EFI, 125 cc Flame, 110 cc Star City and Electric Powered Scooty Teenz

Shedding its conservative image, TVS Motors launches 4 new variants of two wheelers..

Looks like TVS has had enough of its conservative approach at making two wheelers. On 30'th August 2007, in a launch party branded "Dhoom 7" by TVS Motors themselves; 4 new two wheelers and 3 variants of a three wheeler vehicle were launched by TVS Motors.

The Apache RTR 160 EFI will produce 0.5 bhp more than the non-EFI model.

The 125 CC Flame and the 110 CC Star City features a new CC-VTi technology

Bajaj has decided to take legal action against the new engine technology from TVS

These 4 new two wheeler models are:

A Fuel Injected Apache RTR

A 125 cc bike called "Flame" [with a 3-valve engine with the company’s latest CC-VTi (controlled combustion variable timing intelligent) technology]

A 110 cc variant of the Star City and

An Electric powered variant of the Scooty Teenz

Apache RTR 160 "EFI" with Fuel Injection:

The new Fuel Injected Apache RTR 160 is reported to feature the same 160 cc engne of the recently released Apache RTR. Apart from sporting Electronic Fuel Injection the new variant is also expected to produce 0.5 bhp of more peak power. The carbureted Apache RTR 160 already belts out 15.2 bhp which is the highest in the 150-160 cc segment. According to TVS Motors, the new bike will also be capable of offering a higher top speed of 121 kmph.

Update (3/09/07, 14:00 hrs):

"The Apache RTR 160 EFI might also feature a REAR DISC BRAKE..!!" This is what a friend of mine who works at TVS plant in Hosur told me yesterday.

New TVS Apache RTR 160 with EFI

The pics of the new Apache RTR EFI indicates that visually the bike isn't much different from the carbureted Apache RTR 160.

The new EFI technology employs an electronic control unit combined with sensors, a fuel pump and a main injector. The EFI technology promises to offer better engine smoothness and refinement, faster throttle response, lower emissions, and better performance consistency. Although there hasn't been any comment on the expected price, an increase of around Rs.5, 000 can be expected over the carbureted version.

125 cc "Flame" [With CC-VTi Engine]

A unique design element of the Flame seems to be the front turn indicators which have been integrated along with the plastic extensions on the tank.

Looks: The Flame seems to be a very important new model from TVS. As seen from the photo, TVS has made sure to make the flame an eyecatching bike. The Flame features an all black design theme which seems to be very popular these days. The alloy wheels, Engine and Chain covers along with the alloy footrests all all finished in black. The Flame has also used the plastic engine guard and the split grap rails from the Apache RTR. The headlamp design looks to have been heavily inspired from the Apache.

125 CC TVS Flame with CC-VTi Technology

A unique design element of the Flame seems to be the front turn indicators which have been integrated along with the plastic extensions on the tank. From the picture the Flame looks like a much bigger bike than what its 125 cc engine might suggest.

Engine with New CC-VTi Technology: R&D team of TVS in collaboration with AVL of Austria has developed a new technology for the 125cc engine of the new Flame. The Flame engine has a new 3-valve engine with the company’s latest CC-VTi (controlled combustion variable timing intelligent) technology. It seems the new CC-VTi technology features two different intake ports for swirl and power. The engine’s peak power is rated at a class leading 10.5 bhp at 8,250 rpm.

The new 125 cc engine has immediately attracted controversy with Bajaj Auto deciding to take legal action against TVS Motors.

According to news reports Bajaj Auto is taking legal action on TVS for copying its famous “Twin Spark Plug Design” [DTS-i] for a small capacity cylinder engines. The 125 cc engine of the Flame also seems to feature a similar "Two Spark Plug per cylinder" layout

110 cc Star City

The new StaR City features a few cosmetic changes, though the overall design of the bike remains the same. The bike also features a new 110cc engine that also sports TVS’ CVTi engine technology.

110 CC TVS Star City with CC-VTi Technology

Scooty Teenz EV:

The Scooty Teenz EV will feature an electric motor and will be capable of touching a maximum speed of 40 kmph and will have a driving range of 50 km per charge. It will house a battery that is capable of being fully charged by plugging it into a household power socket for four hours.