Bike Chronicles of India

Nov 26, 2007

5 First Pics of the Fuel Injected, TVS Apache RTR 160 "Fi"..!!

First Pics of the Fuel Injected TVS Apache RTR 160 "Fi"..

The Fuel Injected TVS Apache RTR 160 "Fi" was on display in the recent Mumbai Auto Expo.. The following pics were posted on Xbhp.Com forum..

The tech specs of the Apache RTR Fi is still not clear. In terms of looks the new Apache RTR Fi has a front tank cowl and a serrated design stickers (instead of the striped ones found on the RTR 160) which runs across the length of the bike..

The tank cowl seems to the latest fad among Indian bikes and this one on the RTR "Fi" looks similar to the ones found on the 125 cc Bajaj XCD.. but definitely looks good and to the appeal of the already handsome bike.

The Apache RTR 160 "Fi" also features an exposed chain (a la Bajaj Discover 135/Pulsar 200/Pulsar 220) and a rear disc brake.

So far there has been no news about its launch date/price or the tech specs. But since the RTR "Fi" shares virtally all the parts with the carburetted Apache RTR 160, the customers should get the cost advantage.

Also kept in the Mumbai Auto Expo was a racing version of the carburetted Apache RTR 160 which belts out 20.6 bhp..!! The photo below shows the tech specs of the racing version of the RTR 160. There are however no comfirmations whether this racing version would ever make it to the showrooms..

Tech specs of the Race Version of the "Carburetted" RTR 160

150 cc Hero Honda Hunk preview; Tech Specs and Wallpapers [Pics/Photos/Images]

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

Apache RTR 160 Vs. Pulsar DTSi 150 Vs. CBZ Xtreme [Part II - Test Ride/Review]

Apache RTR 160 Vs. Pulsar DTSi 150 Vs. CBZ Xtreme [Part I - Test Ride/Review]

TVS Apache RTR 160 TV Ad and Official Wallpapers

Front "Petal shaped" Disc and Digital Speedo of the Apache 160

Disclaimer:

This is to remind that the Views or Opinions in the blog are entirely mine unless explicitly stated. The Views and Opinions published in this blog should in no way be related to any other person or organization associated -- directly or indirectly -- with me.

23 Review of the 150 cc Hero Honda Hunk [Road Test/Test Ride]

Test Ride/Road Review of the 150 cc Hero Honda Hunk..!!

Overdrive magazine had once carried the test ride of the Pulsar 200 DTSi with the title "Trial and Error".. Well then, what would you call the latest 150 cc from Hero Honda..??

The origin of the engine of the Hunk is from the "CBZ Xtreme", which in turn was another iteration of the "Achiever", the genesis of which can be traced back to the Honda "Unicorn".

In its latest December 2007 issue, Overdrive doesn't call the Hero Honda Hunk as "Trial and Error" like it did for the Pulsar 200 DTSi. But after going through the test drive report of the Hunk in the same magazine, both of us (I and Overdrive Magazine) agree that the latest "Hunk is the worthy successor to the Original Hero Honda CBZ"

Positives:

+ Smooth Engine (till 6000 rpm)
+ Styling
+ Comfortable Riding Position

Negatives:

- Lack of LED Tail Lamps, Rear Grab Rail, Digital meters
- Vibrations at High RPM
- Slightly hard gearbox

The Original "CBZ" from Hero Honda was the bike that introduced sleek and sexy styling for Indian bikes and that was way back in 1999. It is sad that Hero Honda lost the plot completely after that and it has taken them 8 years (!!) to match the styling standards set by its own CBZ.

The choice of the name as "Hunk" for a bike still doesn't go down well with me. But just a casual glance at the bike is sufficient to convince you that the philosophy behind the design has been to impart a macho look to it.

The original CBZ was the trendsetter in styling for Indian bikes, a plot which Hero Honda sadly lost with the conservatively styled 150 cc "Achiever" and the subsequent over the top/ awkward styling of the 150 cc CBZ Xtreme. With the "Hunk", Hero Honda seems to have finally redeemed itself.

Styling:

The rear mudguard sticks out a little bit more than required.

A matt black finished rear view mirror would actually have looked more "Hunky".

The "Hunk" has sculpted and muscular looks which immensely benefits from the huge plastic tank extensions. Unlike the plain jane and amateurish slashes of the CBZ Xtreme, the "Hunk" has a sculpted tank and equally well finished side panels and tail piece. The sore point in the entirely styling is the rear mudguard, which sticks a little bit more than required. The headlamp could have been better and the same goes for the rear tail lamps. Also missing from the "Hunk" are Split Rear Grab Rails and LED tails lamps and Digital Speedometers found on other 150 cc bikes. The Rear View Mirrors with its glossy back finish looks like it has been taken from the "Pleasure" scooter. A matt black finished mirror would actually have looked more "Hunky".

Overall, the bike indeed looks quite handsome. It will be difficult for anyone to not give it a second glance.

Styling:

Engine & Gearbox:

Honda engines are known worldwide for its butter smooth performance. Hero Honda has benefited immensely from its association with Honda and most of its engines show similar smooth performance as well. Press the thumb starter and the "Hunk" immediately settles into an ultra smooth idle.. the bike pulls cleanly through the gears. The engine builds up revs quite enthusiastically with the twist of the right hand. Excellent..!! The Hunk has the highest power rating on paper among rest of the 150cc bikes of India. The on road performance of the Hunk is also quite satisfying.

If you are looking for a Stylish and Comfortable 150 cc bike and need Performance as well, prepared to sacrifice a few goodies..

then look no further than the Hero Honda "Hunk"..

I got the chance to test ride the "Hunk" alone and without any showroom guy at the pillion seat. After a few initial runs, I decided to give the "Hunk" the stick. The pick up along with the engine smoothness remains impressive till around 6000 RPM.. but as the engine RPM's raise higher, vibrations make their presence felt. In fact after 7000 rpm and around 8000 rpm the vibrations indeed becomes very pronounced and violent.

The gears are positive on the "Hunk" but you have to really put in some effort and need to give a firm shove to make the shifts. The vibration at high rpm and the somewhat hard gearshift takes the fun out of the ride experience a little bit.

Engine

Gearbox

Ride Quality, Handling:

The "Hunk" features Gas Filled Shock Absorbers for the rear suspension, which is a first for any Hero Honda bike. The Gas shock absorbers definitely improve the ride quality and offer better damping than the rear suspension of the CBZ Xtreme. But it is still not as plush as the rear suspension of the Pulsars. The "slightly" stiff rear suspension rewards you with very good handling characteristics. The handling is well sorted and taking the corners on the "Hunk" is a joy.

Ride Quality

Handling

[1] Front foot peg have to be raised to make way for the Kick Lever [2] The Metal Brace for the rear mudguard

A few noteworthy points:

Riding Position: The riding position on the Hero Honda "Hunk" is not as sporty as the Bajaj Pulsar or the TVS Apache RTR. The rider sits straight and comfortable with the high set handlebars.

Front Foot pegs: To compliment the high handlebars the front foot pegs aren't that rear-set. The front foot pegs are pushed "just" a little bit behind. Which definitely gives that little bit of sporty riding position. But it also means that the right front foot peg has to be raised every time to kick start the bike (a la Original CBZ).

Metal Brace for the rear mudguard: The prevent the rear mud-guard from rattling (a problem seen in the initial Pulsar UGIII versions), Hero Honda has provided the rear mudguard with a metal brace.

Scooped Seat for the Rider: The rider now sits a bit lower on the "Hunk" compared to the CBZ xtreme, thanks to the slightly scooped "bucket" seat for the rider. Shorter riders (like myself) will definitely appreciate this feature.

Colors: The Hunk comes in the following colors

Solid Black
Metallic black
Red
Silver
Blue

Price: The "Hunk" is available in two versions..

Self Start: Around Rs. 65K (On Road Bangalore)
Kick start: Around Rs.63K (On Road Bangalore)

Fuel Efficiency: Can't really comment on this due to obvious reasons.. but one can expect a figure of around 50 Kmpl.

Verdict: The "Hunk" lacks the Split Rear Grab Rails and the LED tail lamps of the CBZ Xtreme and the Digital speedometer found in the Bajaj Pulsar and TVS Apache RTR. Also the vibrations at high rpm and that notchy gearbox takes the fun factor a little bit out of the equation.

But the "Hunk" is definitely better than the CBZ Xtreme in every respect. Also it is about Rs.700 - Rs.800 cheaper than the CBZ Xtreme as well. Also as speculated by a few, the Hunk doesn't feel small in any respects and still has the big bike feel like the CBZ Xtreme.

Personally I won't ride anything named as "Hunk" (Thank God that I have options). Wonder why Hero Honda didn't name it the "CBZ"(just "CBZ" not "CBZ Xtreme")..?? But if you are looking for a comfortable 150 cc bike and need performance as well, don't like the looks of the CBZ Xtreme, then look no further than the Hero Honda "Hunk".

Also I don't get it why Hero Honda still continues the production of the Achiever and the CBZ Xtreme.. did someone say Trial and Error..!!..??

Hero Honda Hunk, Technical Specification

Engine

Engine: Air Cooled, 4 Stroke, Single Cylinder
Engine Displacement: 149.2 cc
Max Power: 14.4 Ps @ 8500 RPM
Max Torque: 12.80 Nm @ 6500 RPM
Bore X Stroke: 57.3 X 57.8 mm

Carburettor: CV Type
Ignition: AMI- Advanced Microprocessor Ignition System
Gearbox: 5 Speed Constant Mesh

Chasis

Type: Tubular, Diamond Type
Front Suspension: Telescopic
Rear Suspension: REctangular Swingarm, 5 step Gas Reservoir Suspension (GRS)
Front Brake: 240 mm dia Disc Brake
Rear Brake: 130 mm Drum Brake

Wheels

Front Rim: 1.85 X 18, Alloy
Rear Rim: 2.15 X 18, Alloy
Front Tyre: 2.75 X 18
Rear Tyre: 100/90 X 18

Physical Dimensions

Length: 2080 mm
Width: 765 mm
Height: 1095 mm
Wheelbase: 1325 mm
Saddle Height: 795 mm
Ground Clearance: 145 mm
Keb Weight: 143 Kg (Kick)/146 Kg (Self)

Electricals

Battery: 12V- 7Ah
Headlight: 12V 35/35W - Halogen
Tail Light: 12V - 5W
Stop Light: 12V - 21W
Turn Signal Light: 12V - 10W X 4 Nos. Clear Lens Multi Refector Type

Tank Capacity:

12.4 Lts, Usuable Reserve 2.2 Lts.

A Tribute to the Hero Honda CBZ

Hero Honda 150 cc Hunk arrives in Bangalore Showrooms..!!

150 cc Hero Honda Hunk website is up now..!!

Suzuki FXR: Shouldn't it be the next 150 cc motorcycle for India from Suzuki

Yamaha Vixion: Is this the 150 cc Motorcycle from Yamaha India..??

Why hasn't Honda made a mark with its Unicorn in India..??

My mechanic's 150 cc bike review

Owner's Review: Hero Honda CBZ Xtreme

Disclaimer:

Nov 23, 2007

0 Honda (HMSI) to unveil 125 cc Scooter, 125/150 cc Motorcycle at Jan 2008 Auto Expo

Honda (HMSI) will showcase a 125 cc Scooter and two Motorcycles (125/150 cc) at Jan 2008 Auto Expo.. Still no news of the 250 cc Honda CBX Twister..

Honda Motorcycles and Scooters India (HMSI) will soon launch one 125 cc scooter and two new motorcycles (one 125 cc and another 150 cc ). According to Economic Times, HMSI will exhibit all these products in the upcoming Auto Expo in January 2008 and then subsequently launch them nationwide.

Just a few months back Honda had made public its plans to launch a 100 cc motorcycle for India. But this year (2007) has seen a steady decline in sales in the 100 cc segment and the subsequent increase in sales in the 125 cc and above cc segment. With no further news of the 100 cc motorcycle, has Honda shelved it's 100 cc ambitions..??

But then there has been no announcements either from Honda (HMSI) on whether they plan to introduce the "250 cc Honda CBX Twister" in India. Auto Magazines have been responsible for raising the expectations of bike lovers all over the country.. Magazines had published pics and speculative articles of the "250 cc Honda CBX Twister" and the "Yamaha Fazer 250" for two years now.

But it Looks like that probably once again our "desi" performance seeking bikers will be left sulking and might have to wait for sometime more.. Maybe Auto Expo 2010..??

Now who the hell told you that the 250 cc Honda CBX Twister and the 250 cc Yamaha Fazer might make it to India in a hurry..?? I didn't.

Nevertheless, I do have a gut feeling that Honda "might" give Hero Honda something to sell which might be priced just over 1 lakh.. But then, its just a gut feeling.

Lets see, Jan 2008 isn't that far now..

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

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

Honda (HMSI) posts Growth, 100 C.C bike sales show Decline..

Expect a new scooter and 100 C.C Motorcycles from Honda soon..

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

Why hasn't Honda made a mark with its "Unicorn" in India..??

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

2007 New Honda Unicorn, Grand Prix Edition [Wallpaper, Tech Specs]

Disclaimer:

Nov 22, 2007

9 An absolute Jack Ass on his motorcycle

Ever seen a Jack Ass on a bike..??

Jack Ass on his Pulsar 220

My Pulsar 220 has now crossed 1500 kms.. so I have started to give the occasional sudden bursts of speed just to open up the engine better.

I looked at the speedometer and it showed a reading of above 100 kmph.. My heart was pounding with excitement.. eventually I slowed down..

but after a few secs.. I felt like an absolute Jack Ass.!!

The other day I was at a traffic signal waiting for the Green Light. Slowly a few bikes gathered around me.. Behind the tinted visor of my helmet, I could see that almost everybody was staring at my bike (it virtually happens at every traffic signal).

As soon as the light turned Green, one of the bikers which was beside me twisted his throttle and tried to pull away on his bike.. Never in my wildest dreams I ever wanted to drag/race with any other bike.. But I don't know what overcame me that instant.. I couldn't control myself and gave my Pulsar 220 the stick..!!

My Bike leaped forward (just short of a wheelie) and within a few seconds I was alone on the open road. I could see the traffic and the biker (which tried to pull ahead of me) in the "small" rear view mirror of my Pulsar 220.. I looked at the speedometer and it showed a reading of above 100 kmph.. My heart was pounding with excitement.. eventually I slowed down.. but after a few secs.. I felt like an absolute Jack Ass.!!

What the hell was I trying to prove here..??

I realized it was because of my insecurity of being overtaken by another bike.. But I was kinda feeling ashamed myself for such a juvenile behavior (by the way I am 30 now). Now I have made a promise to myself that I will never get into such futile "Cock Fights" anymore in the future.

If anybody want's to zoom past me, I'll let him pass with all respects. I just want to live longer and enjoy riding.

Amen..!!

Fuel Efficiency Report of my Bajaj Pulsar 220 DTS-Fi [Highway & City] + Wallpaper

Ownership Review of my Pulsar 220 DTS-Fi [First 1000 Kms]

Disclaimer:

13 The Greatest Motorcycle Road Trip by an Indian.. on an Indian motorcycle..!!

Read about the Mother of all "desi" Bike Trips.. by an Indian, on an Indian motorcycle.. who did it just for the love of it..!!

Some bikers love drag races, some bikers like doing stunts and some bikers prefer to go on Road trips on their motorcycles.

Road trips like the "Bharat Parikrama" and "Great Indian Road trip" have covered the length of India. A recent one called the "Great Australian Road trip" is presently being done in Australia. Trips like these have been well publicized and sponsored by corporate houses.

Even bikers like you and me now do biking trips across the country. Recently a friend of mine went to Leh on his Pulsar 200 along with his friends.

Inspired by these reports, the other day I spoke to my Girl friend/Fiancée over the phone about my plans to do a Bangalore-Pondicherry-Bangalore road trip on my bike (Pulsar 220). Here is the summary of her reaction..

"What..??"
Such a long trip..?? On a bike..??
Why can't you take the bus..??
Are you turning into a street Rowdy..??

Imagine if I tell

"I want to travel around the world, across 5 continents, spanning 19 months, ALONE, on a motorcycle and WITHOUT ANY SPONSOR..!!"

I am certain that my Girlfriend will dump me.!!

Over the years my ear drums have been institutionalized to that saccharine voice.. so even if we were over the phone (2,500 Kms apart), I could clearly make out that ominous thunder clouds were gathering over my head. So with all my years of experience, in order to minimize further damage, I promptly added..

"Only if you give me the permission.. dear..!!"

Success..!! Disaster (read NAGGING..!!) was averted this time. But deep down I felt sick that I can't do something that I had been cherishing to do for sometime now. And oh yes, I know.. I SUCK..!!

Now Imagine: If I tell my Girl friend/Fiancée that "I want to travel around the world, across 5 continents, spanning 19 months, ALONE, on a motorcycle and WITHOUT ANY SPONSOR..!!" I am certain that the Nagging would cease permanently.. Because she would dump me.!!

It might sound amazing but a 37 year old called Bharadwaj Dayala who hails from Vizag Andhra Pradesh, has done exactly this. Bhadradwaj has circumnavigated the globe riding Alone on a Hero Honda Karizma in 19 months..!! Bharadwaj successfully completed his journey on 4'th Nov 2007 which was originally flagged off on 2'nd April 2006 at Vizag, Andhra Pradesh.

Even Hero Honda refused to sponsor his trip..

the cost of the trip was around Rs.50 Lakh, collected by his friends and wellwishers..

What's most noteworthy is that Bharadwaj has completed his trip without any sponsor. The cost of the entire trip was around Rs. 50 Lakh, which was entirely collected by his friends and wellwishers. Even Hero Honda refused to sponsor his trip, when they realized the legal implications that they might land into, in event of his death during the trip. Also unlike the corporate sponsored/publicized bike trips like "Bharat Parikrama", "Great Indian/Australian Roadtrip", Bharadwaj did not have a support crew who would follow him along the way in a four wheeler.

Maybe Bharadwaj isn't exactly a market or media savvy man to sell his idea/story to a sponsor or publishing house. Maybe he isn't an able photographer to chronicle his trips in sweeping artistic photographs. Maybe a few people might even call him an insane guy to plan such an audacious trip. But Bharadwaj definitely deserves a much more accolades and publicity for his amazing feat.

I can't offer him monetary benefits for his exploits but I can at least I can make sure that a few more guys should know about his amazing "Solitary Journey across the World on an Indian Motorcycle".

His trip has been chronicled in a blog: "Around the World on Motorcycle". The last update on his blog was back in July 25, 2007.

Now don't just sit there, go ahead show some respects to this guy.. Visit his blog. Leave a few comments.

Meanwhile I'll try to motivate my Girl Friend/Fiancée by telling her about Bharadwaj Dayala and his amazing solo trip around the world. Maybe she'll let me go on short bike trips along with my friends.

Here are a few excerpts from his blog:

This is not a sponsored tour and the entire planning, logistics, funds, communications, paper work, permits, insurances, transfers, shipments, repairs and arrangements have to be done by me or by supporters at home..

I was riding riding riding...day and night....for three days. My eyes bulged out like onions and were watering continuously with fatigue....and lack of sleep and my body was achining in every muscle with continuous sitting for more than 14 hours a day....

If I had not gone to the French embassy then at least no body would know that I am overstaying...but now that they know that an Indian in overstaying, they may look for me and arrest me at the French border...

To ride and to go to a new place and enjoy the new surroundings, new people, new food. Everything is fun and you will be happy. But not if you have to do it everyday, 24/7 all through the year

Route of Bharadwaj Dayala

You may be liking pizzas and burgers and meat but try eating all that for a month. I have been eating that for 9 months now..

Loneliness as a problem can not be explained, only to be experienced..

Each shipment cost me almost double the cost of my bike itself, it would have been much cheaper if I bought a new motorcycle of the same quality in each country and just threw it in the sea when I left, but I want to take only an Indian motorcycle..

Bharadwaj Dayala tells The Hindu: "Many have done it before, but on far superior bikes, I wanted to do it on an Indian bike, and I have done it"

"Bharat Parikrama: A Journey Around India" by 3 Bikers

Road Trip to the "Highest Motorable Road in the World" on a Pulsar 200 DTSi [Part I]

Road Trip to the "Highest Motorable Road in the World" on a Pulsar 200 DTSi [Part II]

Road Trip to the "Highest Motorable Road in the World" on a Pulsar 200 DTSi [Part III: Concluding Part]

Disclaimer:

Nov 18, 2007

8 Rajiv Bajaj: The Man behind the Pulsar

Know Mr. Rajiv Bajaj better, the young MD of Bajaj auto..

How much does Bajaj pay you to write in their favor..??"

Did Bajaj Auto gift you with the Pulsar 220 because you write for them..??

This blog (The Bike Chronicles of India) is maintained by Bajaj Auto guys..!!

These are the a few of the Cynical Comments that I have got off late.

Why..?? Maybe because I have recently purchased a Pulsar 220. Maybe my posts seem like its biased towards Bajaj Auto..

You know what? Such comments make me laugh. I know that Indians are really very good at sitting and making comments.. To the cynics out there, please continue to amuse me.

My admiration for Bajaj Auto stems from the following..

Bajaj is the only Indian company which has so far known exactly what "I" need before I go bald.

There is a very proud Indian in me which doesn't feel shy to endorse a Made in India product.

Because the MD is someone like Mr. Rajiv Bajaj..!!

I had previously posted "The inspiring story of the Birth of Bajaj Pulsar" which showed that if you believe in yourself, there is nothing one cannot achieve. The Pulsar went on to prove this and the credit for making this happen goes to Mr. Rajiv Bajaj. Rajiv was in his early 30's back then.

He is in his 40's now, but compared to his contemporaries who are old enough to be grandpa's, Rajiv is still very young. Maybe that's why he knows exactly what young guys want from their two wheelers.

To know Mr. Rajiv Bajaj better, just watch (& hear) Rajiv receive the CNBC Best Motorcycle 2007 award (awarded to Pulsar 220 DTS-Fi).

When the other guests come dressed in their formal suits, he (Rajiv Bajaj) goes on stage dressed informally in jeans, takes Mr. Abraham Joseph (R&D Head) and Pradeep Srivastava (President, Engineering) on stage. He displays excellent leadership skills by making sure that he acknowledges their contribution to the company and then proceeds to literally speaks his mind off.

Mr. Rajiv Bajaj even ends up making an "innocent" pass at Shereen Bhan (of CNBC TV 18) who was there to give away the award.

Is This Blog Biased towards "Bajaj Bikes"..??

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

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

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

Hero Honda the Pioneer, Bajaj Auto the Fast/Smart Follower

My Mechanics 150 C.C Bike Review

Amazing story of how Munjal built Hero Honda

Chinese Copies of the Bajaj Pulsar..!!

Disclaimer:

9 "3'rd National Bajaj Pulsar 180 Owners Meet" in Colombia..!!

3'rd National Pulsar Owners meet in Bajaj Pulsar Country.. Colombia..!!

Few months back, I had made a post on how Bajaj has become the biggest two wheeler brand in Colombia, overtaking the Japanese and Chinese brands in the process.

In India, the Pulsars have set the 150cc and above sales charts on fire. Thanks to the constant up gradation and continuous improvement in quality, the Pulsar still continues to rule the hearts of many bikers and the sales charts in India.

But probably Colombia is the only country in the world where there is a "National Meet" of Pulsar 180 owners..!!

This year was the 3'rd edition of the "III Nacional Encuentro Pulsar"(" 3'rd National Pulsar Meet" in Spanish) of Colombia. It was held on October 13-14, 2007 in the Colombian City of Bogota.

As seen from the above photo, there are around 42 odd "Pulsar 180" clubs scattered around Colombia.

3'rd National Pulsar Meet, Colombia Poster

Around 1200 Pulsar 180 owners had congregated in the City of Bogota for the event. The two day event was filled with activities ranging from a group ride on their Pulsars to sports, music and dance events.

As can be seen from the pics, Colombia comes across as a beautiful country with beautiful roads and beautiful people.

Even the original round headlamp version of the Pulsar 180 can be found in Colombia. So that means that the Pulsar 180 has been around in Colombia for around six years now (The Pulsar was launched in the fag end of 2001 in India).

With three "Annual Pulsar Owners Meet" in six years, the Pulsar seems to be a much loved two wheeler in colombia.

Not just the lads but the Pulsar seems to be a big hit with pretty Colombian lasses as well..!!

Wouldn't it be lovely to have an "International Meet of Pulsar Owners"..??

Wouldn't it be lovely to have an "International Meet of Pulsar Owners"..?? I am sure a lot of Colombians would love to visit the land where their Pulsars are built and I am sure many Indians would love to meet these beautiful people as well.

Bajaj are you reading this..?? It would be a great way to build on the "Pulsar" brand and promote the "Distinctly Ahead" tag in a distinct way.

Pulsar Modifications at the 3'rd National Pulsar Meet, Colombia

Just have a look at the photos of the impressive modifications done by the Colombians on their Pulsar 180's..

The earlier generation Pulsars were far from being the perfect bike.. there were problems mainly with the clutch and gearbox.. But there has always been something special about this bike that has made many fans in India and in Colombia as well. The Pulsar probably makes its riders feel young.

The present UGIII version of the Pulsar has solved the problem of the jerky clutch which used to plauge the earlier versions. The gearbox on the latest version has improved a lot but still needs to improve further.. which would then make it an almost perfect bike.

By the way, Honda has also launched its CBF 150 (which is the Unicorn in India) in Colombia. Apart from these bikes, Colombians also have access to famous international bikes like the Yamaha Fazer 250 and other exotic bikes.

Inspite of having such good models, seems like the charm of the Pulsar is Universal phenomenon..!!

Maybe these guys should read this post.

They'll at least be proud (if not Love) of this Indian Product..

News Source:

Publimotos.Com

ClubMotoPulsar.com

MSN Groups Colombia Pulsar180

One can use Google Translation tools or Babelfish to translate from Spanish to English to read from the above sources.

Related Pots:

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

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

TVS starts its Indonesian innings with the Step Thru "Neo".. Apache 180 to follow

Road to the Indonesian Two Wheeler Industry

Bajaj Pulsar 180 DTSi in Indonesia

24 Hour Race on the Pulsar 180 DTSI in MEXICO..!! (Video)

Biggest Bike Brand in Colombia is Bajaj..!! [Part 2] Pics

Biggest Bike Brand in Colombia is Bajaj..!! [Part 1] Pics

Disclaimer:

Nov 16, 2007

12 TV Ad/Commercial of the New 150 cc Hero Honda "Hunk" motorcycle..

Rate the TV Ad/Commercial of the Hero Honda Hunk..

After the 150 cc Achiever (which sadly did not achieve much) and the CBZ Xtreme (with the extreme makeover), Hero Honda seems to have got it right this time with the "Hunk" (Funny name eh..??).

Have a look at the new TV Ad/Commercial of the "Hunk" (posted below).. How do you like it..??

Results of the Public Poll to Rate the TV Ad/Commercial of the Hero Honda Hunk..

Hero Honda 150 cc Hunk arrives in Bangalore Showrooms..!!

150 cc Hero Honda Hunk website is up now..!!

150 cc Hero Honda Hunk preview; Tech Specs and Wallpapers [Pics/Photos/Images]

New 150 cc "Hunk" from Hero Honda..!! [First Pics]

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

TVS Apache RTR 160 TV Ad and Official Wallpapers

New Bajaj Pulsar DTS-Fi 220, TV Advertisement..!!

Pulsar 200 TV Advertisement. (Video)

New Bajaj Pulsar 180 DTSI (UG III) TV Commercial/Advertisement..!! (Video)

Disclaimer:

5 Rock100, Cheapest Motorcycle at Rs. 19,990 in India..!!

Mileage of 125KM/Litre.!! @ Rs 19,990/-.. You interested..??

Global Auto, a JV between Xentis Group (India) and and Guangzhou Motors Co. (China) Launches Rock100 the Lowest Ever People’s Bike in India @ Rs 19,990/- with Mileage of 125KM/Litre.!!

Have a close look at the Pic of the Rock 100. It'll be easy to comprehend why the price is so low

That's what the news reports are saying. It seems the Rock 100 features along with a 4 Stroke Engine.. Electronic Self Start and Kick Start Facility, Tachometer and Gear Indicator. That 19,990/- price would most probably be ex-showroom price. So we can expect an on road price of not more than 25,000/-..!!

Incredible..?? Interested.??

Well, Have a close look at the Pic of the Rock 100. It'll be easy to comprehend why the price is so low. Its made with the rural market in mind. But if you are still interested, read the complete press release at rearset's blog.

Global Auto rolls out its first Indo-China Bike from West Bengal (125 cc Xpression)

India's youngest 2 wheeler mfd., Global Automobiles Pvt Ltd. will bring in Chinese Bikes

Disclaimer:

Nov 15, 2007

14 "Fuel Injected" Royal Enfield Bullet 500 Electra EFI: Pics/Photos/Images & Technical Specifications

Pics/Photos & Tech Specs of the "Fuel Injected" Royal Enfield 500 Bullet Electra EFI

What you see below are the pics/photos of the new "Fuel Injected" Royal Enfield 500 Bullet Electra EFI..

The Bullet 500 Electra EFI is right now an import only model and will soon make its appearence on foreign shores soon.

Apart from Fuel Injection, The Bullet 500 Electra EFI also features a Unit Construction Engine (Engine-Gearbox in a single block) and a more conventional left side gear shifter.. which sets this particular model apart from previous Royal Enfield models.

The Bullet 500 Electra EFI is right now an export only model.. The classic looking speedometer shows the reading in MPH (miles per hour). The Bullet 500 Electra also "Probably" features a twin spark plug like design on its single cylinder engine..

The 500 Electra EFI also features front discs and a gas filled rear suspension.

There are news of a 350 cc engine with similar Unit Construction Engine (without the Fuel Injection) that is being prepared for an India launch..!!

Technical Specifications of the Royal Enfield Bullet 500 Electra EFI:

Engine:

Suspension

Brakes

Wheels

Capacity, weights and dimensions

Fuel Consumption: 3.3 lts/100km
Price: 5,990 € (Euros)

News and Pics obtained from: MotoMag.Com

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

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

New Royal Enfield Thunderbird with "Unit Construction" Engine [Scoop Pics]

New Royal Enfield Bullet Machismo 500 LB

Is it End of the Road for "Bullet 500".. ??

New Royal Enfield Engine Platform (Pics/Images/Photos)

Women Bullet Riders of India..!! (Video)

Disclaimer:

13 Life Cycle of a "Desi" Biker..

The metamorphosis of a "Desi" Biker..

A Biker is born:

When I grow up "as a biker", maybe I'll get a Royal Enfield Bullet..!!

A biker is born from the day a little boy starts dreaming about bikes. His dream then manifests itself in the form of posters on his bedroom wall. He promises to himself that when he grows old, he'll get his dream bike.

A new Biker is born:

But one fine day, the child attains puberty and his dreams are now a fast paced adrenaline filled world. But his dreams are now mostly occupied with images of the "female form" that for some strange reason suddenly becomes so alluring. Thanks to the raging hormones that now flows freely in his young body, the bloke is now obsessed with a three letter word starting with "S".

The subtle message seems to be.. "Get the ware that I sell, become a man overnight, get access to girls..!!"

Bingo..!! The corporate world manages to peek into these adolescent dreams. And voila.. the market is soon crowded with dream machines that promise to make you overnight into a "Hunk", lets you practice "Newton's laws" on the streets with a pretty young thing as pillion, pull "Xtreme" stunts and certifies you to be a "Definitely male".

The subtle message seems to be.. "Get the ware that I sell, become a man overnight, get access to girls..!!" And the best part is the promise of Zero Maintenance.. "Slam-Bam-Not even a Thank you Maam..!!" Aahh..!! Exactly how "adolescent wet dreams" are supposed to be.

A Biker ceases to exist:

For reasons which might vary across individuals.. the young biker now starts thinking about fuel efficiency.. cost of ownership.. monthly bills. So now he chooses to become a commuter.

Or maybe he is persuaded by his nagging Girl Friend/Fiancée/Wife and dumps his bike for a more family oriented 4 wheeler.

Or maybe he becomes just bored of riding two wheelers. Whatever might be the case.. Rest in Peace..!!

A Biker prevails:

A few either manage to strike a balance, get filthy rich or maybe just remain bachelors..

In spite of escalating fuel costs or a nagging Girl Friend/Fiancée/Wife.. a few bikers somehow manage to stay true to there childhood dreams. They somehow either manage to strike a balance, get filthy rich or maybe just remain bachelors.

A Biker becomes a "Bullet Rider"..!!

"Some Guys will Never Get It..!!" says a Royal Enfield Bullet print advertisement..!! How True..

Not everyone can muster up the courage to ride a Royal Enfield... The Bulk, the temperamental engine, the constant care and attention, the failing parts.. Its not everyone's cuppa tea/coffee. But there is something which sets apart the bullet rider from every other rider.

I have seen many a rich guy on their Hayabusa's and R1's and Ninja's (mostly without their helmets, flaunting their Adonis like pretty face) in the streets of Bangalore. But whenever I come across a Bullet Rider, negotiating the traffic with an unhurried clam demeanor akin to Buddha on Two wheels, I feel like getting down from my bike and saluting him.

When I grow up "as a biker", maybe I'll get a Royal Enfield Bullet..!!
Amen.

30 BHP, 250 cc, Twin Cylinder Bikes are for Ladies..!!

I’d rather ride a 250-400 cc slowly through a pothole, than “Day Dream” of riding the R1 on the Golden Quadrilateral..!!

Is the following "Comment" authentic..??

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

Violent "Biker Gang" in Delhi..!!

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

The Indian Motorcyclist.. [by First_Synn]

My Mechanics 150 C.C Bike Review

Economic Times says "Blogs Driving Motorcycles"... Really..??

Bad Boys + Bad Bikes = Bad Girls..??

Disclaimer:

Nov 12, 2007

8 Hero Honda the Pioneer, Bajaj Auto the Fast/Smart Follower

Survival of the Fastest..?? Or survival of the Smartest..??

Here is a "Desi" two wheeler trivia for you..??

Which company brought the first 100 cc four stroke bike in India..??

Which company brought the first 150 cc four stroke bike in India..??

Which company provided the front disc brake on a 150 cc bike in India..??

Which company brought the first 135 cc four stroke bike in India..??

Which company brought the first 200 "plus" cc four stroke bike in India..??

Which company provided alloys wheels as standard in India..??

Which company provided LCD display on the speedometer on a bike in India..??

Which Company brought the first "Fuel Injected" bike in India..??

Did someone say Hero Honda..?? Yes..!! Yes, it indeed is Hero Honda.

Ever since Hero Honda overtook Bajaj Auto as the largest two wheeler manufacturer of India (and subsequently, the World), it still enjoys the Numero Uno position with almost 50% marketshare. So how can Bajaj Auto claim itself to be "Distinctly Ahead" as it proclaims itself after every other recent Bajaj commercial..?? Is it just another marketing gimmick?

Hero Honda truly has been the pioneer:

Hero Honda has really made some pioneering launches. There is no second opinion about that.

1985: 100 cc Hero Honda CD100

Hero Honda CD100 was India's first 100 cc 4 stroke bike.. it was launched at a time when 2 stroke scooters and motorcycles ruled roost in India. Actually as revealed in this story,

"It was Munjal's long cherished desire to produce scooters, destiny had other plans. It was a blessing in disguise."

So it was good luck that after 10 years of starting production of the CD100, motorcycles actually found favor among Indian consumers over scooters. Nevertheless Hero Honda have to be credited to have produced and marketed India's first 100 cc CD100 which paved the path for these new generation 4 stroke machines.

1998: 150 cc Hero Honda CBZ

By the fag end of 1998, I was in my first year of engg. and I accidentally happened to see the first pics of this bike on the cover page of "Overdrive" Magazine..

Initially I mistook it to be a foreign bike but then to my shock I realized that it was a new offering from Hero Honda which was to be called CBZ (the "z" pronounced as the yankee "zee"). Without any hesitance I bought the magazine and in the next year I somehow managed to persuade my dad to part with Rs.66K for the then unheard of 12.62bhp producing bike (with front disc and without self start).

So from that fateful day, my love affair with bikes started with the Hero Honda CBZ..!!

2003: 223 cc Hero Honda Karizma

By 2003, the Bajaj had stolen the thunder very much from the Hero Honda CBZ with its Pulsar twins the Pulsar 150 and the Pulsar 180. The Pulsar 150 matched the CBZ in power and was better in refinement at high rpm, returned better mileage and was also substantially cheaper than the CBZ. To make matters worse, the Pulsar 180 with 14.7bhp on tap (back in 2001) was the undisputed leader among the performance bikes in India.

By 2003, thanks to it 100cc models spearheaded by the Splendor, Hero Honda was firmly in number one position. But it had to do something in the premium segment to take away the crown from Bajaj Auto as the leader in the performance segment too. Voila..!! India gets the Karizma from Hero Honda, a 223 cc bike producing 17 Ps of peak power.

Apart from these, Hero Honda had also launched the Ambition a 135 cc bike in 2002, much before Bajaj Auto's Discover 135 DTSi (2007). In 2006, Hero Honda launched the 125 cc Hero Honda Glamour "Fi", India's first fuel injected motorcycle. The Fuel Injected Pulsar 220 DTS-Fi was launched officially only in 2007.

So till, now Hero Honda has been the pioneer in introducing new products and pushing up the envelope of biking in India.

Bajaj has been the fast/smart follower:

There is absolutely no doubt that in terms of number of total sales, Hero Honda is still ahead of any other competitor in India. But this is because of its 100 cc bikes. In the 125 cc and above premium segment, Bajaj Auto has a dominating 50 % of market share. This has been possible because Bajaj Auto has been the fast/smart follower. Instead of trying to chase Hero Honda with similar 100 cc bikes, Bajaj Auto has captured the leadership position in the premium segment thanks to Hero Honda..!!

Thanks to Hero Honda..?? How..??

For any new product to be accepted, the market conditions have to be ready for that. In mid nineties Hero Motors tried to bring in BMW bikes in India with a price tag of about 4.5 lakhs. Needless to say, it was a miserable flop. The market at that time was just wasn't ready for such bikes.

Hero Honda has been responsible for making the market ready for the premium bikes of Bajaj.

Hero Honda CBZ prepared the market for 150 cc bikes in India which was subsequently taken over by the Pulsars thanks to their constant up gradations, better fuel efficiency and clever pricing.

Similarly the Karizma launched in 2003, has prepared the Indian market for 200 Plus cc bikes.

Bajaj has been smart enough to use the same Pulsar platform to push the envelope further with the 180 cc in 2001 and now the 220 cc Pulsar in 2007. Using the same platform has ensured that there are tremendous cost savings. Also by just using the same brand name "Pulsar", Bajaj have saved itself crores of rupees which would have other wise gone into costly brand building exercises.

Conclusion:

Its clear that Hero Honda indeed has been the pioneer in introducing new bikes but Bajaj auto has been the shrewd and smart fast follower.

Right now the Pulsar 220 DTSF-i with "20 bhp", "Fuel Injection", the "Rear Discs", the "Fat" tubeless tyres, the projector beams, the full "digital speedo" just manages to outdo the Karizma.. leaving Hero Honda with a challenge to push the envolope once again.

So will Hero Honda take the bait again this time and pull out something from its JV partner, Honda's hat..?? Just a fuel injected Karizma would be playing catch with Bajaj instead of taking the stakes higher.

So what's up Hero Honda..?? A 300 cc with fuel injection..?? Maybe a 250 cc twin..?? Or will Bajaj take the initiative this time and surprise us all..??

I’d rather ride a 250-400 cc slowly through a pothole, than “Day Dream” of riding the R1 on the Golden Quadrilateral..!!

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

Yamaha India will bring in its Superbikes..!! Are you happy now..??

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

The Greatest Ever Motorcycle of India

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

Why hasn't Honda made a mark with its "Unicorn" in India..??

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

My Mechanics 150 C.C Bike Review

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

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

Disclaimer:

7 "Bharat Parikrama: A Journey Around India" by 3 Bikers

The first of its kind of journey around India on bikes.. captured on film

Among the current crop of auto magazines, I like "Bike India" for its single minded coverage of Bikes & Just Bikes..!!

The latest November 2007 issue also had something else to offer along with the usual fare.. it was Video DVD titled "Bharat Parikrama: A Journey Around India". Regular readers of Bike India magazine would recall the travelogues of 3 bikers on a trip around India, which was printed of previous issues of Bike India Magazine.

A film on the same has been made into a documentary with a running time of 182 minutes.. and is being given for free along with the latest issue of "Bike India" magazine.

The 3 Bikers in Assam (my home state)

My desire to see places on a motorcycle is only growing by the day.. maybe soon even I'll take to the open road with a few like minded friends

The journey takes these 3 bikers on 17,000 Km long trip which spans 57 days and covers 20 states of India. The bikers traverse across India along its borders, from southern most costal areas of Kanyakumari, to deserts of Rajasthan, to LEH in the Himalayas, to the thick forests of the North Eastern states of India. During the journey, the Bikers faced extreme temperatures from 40 degrees to minus 15 degrees.

After hearing from my friend Nilutpal, about his recent trip to LEH on his bike and after watching this DVD, my desire to see places on a motorcycle is only growing by the day.. maybe soon even I'll take to the open road with a few like minded friends.

The DVD is a must have for all die-hard motorcyclists and for those who love to travel and explore places.

One of the bikers, Bari Kumar has kept a blog on the "Bharat Parikrama".. check it out here..