TVS Apache Velocity 160 Review

TVS Apache Velocity is an enhanced version of APACHE RTR 160 and has been designed to be a street fighter bike. From the moment it was unveiled at the Jakarta Motorcycle Show, the bike has been highly talked about. Here’s a detailed look at its features and specifications.
Engine – The bike is powered by a 160 cc four stroke engine, which promises a maximum power of 15.2 bhp at 8500 rpm and a torque of 13.1 Nm at 6000 rpm (expected). The engine is coupled with a 5 speed type gear and the clutch is the wet multi-plate type. Velocity is expected to reach the speed of 60 kmph in a record break 4.6 seconds.
Performance and Comfort – Handling and performance with the bike has been reported to be efficient and with a number of addons like the air-cooled engine and the wet multi-plate clutch, the bike gives a good fuel efficiency of almost 42 km/l when riding in the city. The fuel storing capacity of Velocity is impressive at 15 liters.
While designing Velocity every intricate detail has been adhered to, be it to enhance the appearance, the performance or the comfort factor. Velocity has Upside down forks as the front suspension and the YSS Monoshock unit for the rear suspension that promises a jolt free ride. The ergonomics of Velocity is better than its cousin TVS Apache’s. The broad wheelbase and wide tires offers unparalleled stability and control to the user.
Appearance – In terms of looks as well, Velocity scores brownie points with an aerodynamic body and chrome finished headlights. The broad Bridgestone Battlax tyres do not just add to the stability and comfort factor but also to the overall appeal of the bike. The pillion seat is highly raised which gives the bike a macho appeal. The graphics and the expected color combination (Midnight Black and Sunset Yellow) further add to the enticing display.
TVS Apache Velocity 160 Price – The prices for the bike is going to be somewhere around INR 80,000.

TVS Apache Velocity 160 Specifications :
Engine Type – Single Cylinder, 4 Stroke
Displacement – 159.7 cc
Starting – Self Start
Body Work – Custom Fiberglass
Tires – Bridgestone Battlax
Maximum Power – 15.2 Bhp @ 8500 rpm
Maximum Torque – 13.1 Nm @ 6000 rpm
Mileage – 55kmpl Petrol (Approximate)

Hero Motocorp ZIR Review

Launching and selling scooter in the Indian market is not everyone’s cup of tea. There are several scooters, but no one is able to take away Honda Activa’s market share. Companies like Hero Moto Corp, TVS, and Yamaha are trying their best to compete with Activa by launching various scooters every year. During 2014 Auto Expo, Hero Moto Corp launched its 150cc scooter called ZIR. Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor was roped in for this occasion. Industry experts believe that this scooter has everything required to compete against Activa.

Style

Scooter was unveiled during February 2014, but the auto maker will start selling it sometime during this year. There are two variants of this scooter, European style variant and flat board variant.
“Spectacular” is the right word to easily describe how this vehicle looks. It may prove to be India’s most selling scooter during the next few years. Thanks to dual projector headlamps, the scooter’s front looks better than other scooters as well as bikes on Indian roads. Daylight running lights surround the headlamps, and make sure that the scooter’s face shines all the time.
Bright LED winkers-turn indicators, LED tail lamps, large windscreen, and cowl-mounted console (in Euro variant) might tempt you to check your bank balance. European style seat and integrated handle for pillion rider make sure that even the pillion rider gets his/her share of comfort and fame.
Overall, Euro variant looks better than flat board variant.

Engine

Both variants are powered by 157 cc liquid cooled OHC engine. This engine can reach maximum speed of 110 KMPH. Scooter’s weight is 139 kgs, and its ground clearance is 155 mm. ZIR’s fuel tank can store nine liters of petrol, and scooter triggers reserve mode when tank is left with 2.5 liters of fuel.
Hero Moto Corp is still working on certain aspects of this vehicle, so the company has kept ZIR’s mileage related information under wraps. But the engine is advanced, and after looking at engine’s overall specifications, one can say that Activa makers might have to run for money due to competition with ZIR.
ZIR’s console offers the combination of digital and analogue technology. It consists of digital speedometer, analogue tachometer, and digital fuel gauge, plus trip meter.

Suspension and braking

Adjustable dual shock-absorbers in the rear and telescopic hydraulic shock-absorbers in the front manage the vehicle’s suspension. Experts believe that these are good enough to offer balanced ride even while traveling on roads full of potholes.
Hydraulic, flower type disc brakes in the front and rear offer the best possible safety while controlling the scooter.

Other features

Vehicle’s under-seat storage and USB mobile phone charger take care of small needs. Tubeless tyres and maintenance-free batteries can help in saving a lot of time. Hero Moto corp has designed Android app that allows users to record vehicle’s fuel and performance related data from EFI system. The auto maker is also working on similar app for Windows, Blackberry and iOS devices.
Buyers are eagerly waiting for ZIR
ZIR is a large scooter. These scooters are popular in Europe. But till date, India has just seen one 165cc scooter called Blaze from Kinetic. So ZIR is Hero’s big bet, and it is expected to come with price tag of around one lakh rupees.
The scooter has already created buzz in the market before its arrival. Comments written on news stories related to ZIR indicate that several people are eagerly waiting to buy this maxi scooter. It is expected to reach showrooms during this year’s first quarter. Hero Moto Corp might also sell this vehicle in certain European and Asian countries.

Hero Splendor Pro Classic Review – India’s First Cafe Racer Style Bike

The Hero Splendor is the world’s top selling motorcycle and the automaker recently has brought out some interesting variants of it, including iSmart with start-up technology and Splendor Pro Classic, India’s first cafe racer styled motorcycle. Being the world’s cheapest cafe racer styled bike, this new Splendor version brings retro, cafe racer within the reach of the common man.
Based on Hero Motocorp’s most popular and reliable commuter – Splendor, Pro Classic is the first single seat offering from the automaker. Being a single seater, it has got a nice tail piece that adds to the flair of the bike. With excellent and stunning look and features, the bike reflects a blending of cafe racing styling and retro styled graphics.
Promoted with the tagline – ‘Karo celebrate Singlehood’, Splendor Pro Classic is a good in-budget retro style two-wheeler. If you are enamored by the Cafe Racer concept, or are searching for a decently priced motorcycle that will stand out from the crowd, then Splendor Pro Classic is definitely an alternative.

Technical Specifications

• Powering the Splendor Pro Classic is a 97.2cc, four-stroke, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that churns out 8.36 bhp of power and 8.05 nm of torque.
• The bike has also got a four-speed manual transmission system linked with its engine to further accelerate its performance.
• The output of this bike is marginally more than what other regular models of the Splendor series offer.
• Fuel efficiency has always been the Splendor’s forte. The country’s first 100cc bike offers a mileage of 55-60kmpl on short revs and delivers 70kmpl on highways.
• It has got both an electric starter and a kick-start.

Design & Styling

Available in two color combinations – carbon black and solid maroon, the new Hero Splendor Classic has been designed to look like a cafe racer. To give it a cafe racer look, Hero has given it a vintage style cafe cowl, a classic single seat, round head & taillight, a sporty handle bar and a classic round speedometer. In a bid to add to appeal of the bike, the company has given chrome treatment to head-lamp ring, rear-view mirrors, front & rear fenders, silencer, suspension and a few other parts, making it highly irresistible. The bike’s pleasing design includes old-school pinstripe graphics on 11-litres fuel tank and side panels.

Performance & Handling

As far as the performance of Hero Splendor Pro Classic is concerned, it is performance packed the way it has always been. The bike can reach up to the top speed of 90kmpl and is able to cover the distance of 100kmph from standstill in merely 13 seconds. Packed with powerful engine and other features, this cafe racer is a light & nimble bike and is fairly easy to ride through busy roads.

Bike’s Main Rivals

The Splendor Pro Classic doesn’t really have any tough competition; however its price tag makes it a rival to other premium commuter motorcycles like the Honda CB Twister and the Mahindra Centuro. You can also compare it to Triumph Thruxton and Continental GT (given the fact that they are cafe racers); nevertheless, these two-wheelers are in another universe altogether.
Hero MotoCorp’s to launch various new bikes & scooters in 2015
In 2014, along with Splendor Pro Classic, Hero MotoCorp also launched other new model in its commuter line-up – Passion Pro TR. A new model from Splendor series, Hero Splendor iSmart also created a buzz in the industry and was nominee of CNB Viewers’ Choice Award 2015. To retain the top-spot in the Indian market, Hero MotoCorp is planning to launch several all-new and facelift products in 2015 including 2015 Hero Impulse, Hero HX250R, Hero Hastur, Hero ZIR 150cc Scooter and Hero Leap Hybrid Scooter.

KTM Duke 390 – Indian Bike Sold around World 0

Austrian bike maker KTM and India’s Bajaj auto joined hands and came out with high performance, race-oriented, and stylish bike, KTM Duke 390.
During KTM Duke 390’s launch event in 2012, KTM’s CEO Stefan Pierer interacted with media and shared his opinion that their joint venture with Bajaj will help them sell stylish motorcycles in saturated markets around the world. Soon, KTM Duke 390 became India’s first high-end super bike to be sold in the US market.
Bike’s concept is Austrian, but its design and other aspects were made in India, by Bajaj. KTM and Bajaj have also manufactured and sold Duke 125, and Duke 200 in India and certain European countries.

Looks

Bike’s latest version is known as Duke 390 – 2015. Some experts feel that Duke 390 is Duke 200’s next variant. But 390’s body graphics, LEDs used in indicators, lower seat, bigger fuel tank, combined with 17 inch alloy wheels do differentiate it from Duke’s other orange bikes.

Engine and other specifications

Most of the Indian bikes appear impressive on paper and on their manufacturer’s websites; unfortunately they turn out to be nothing different from other existing bikes on the street. But Duke 390 with its 375 cc engine is not just another bike meant for Indian roads.
Bike’s ground clearance is 170 mm, and weight is 139 KG. In-order to get real taste of this bike’s power, it is advisable to either go to nearby test track, or opt for highway that has less traffic. Its 6-speed gearbox, 4-stroke water cooled engine blend perfectly with each other, you won’t even notice when you pass 150 KMPH mark.
Gearbox follows one-down-five-up pattern. Bike offers mileage of around 30 KMPL, and its fuel tank can store 11 litres of petrol. Lower seat and handles offer comfortable journey even during long rides.
Disc brake with its four pot brake caliper manages the bike’s front brake. Floating brake discs with one pot brake caliper manage the bike’s rear brake. Steel braided hydraulic lines are used to control both brakes.
Its powder-coated, tubular space steel frame is light in weight. Bike’s front up-side down fork and shock absorber are made by WP Suspension. Overall, the suspension system does manage to absorb bumps.
DUKE 390’s digital dashboard consists of tachometer, odometer, trip meter, and most importantly, it also shows speed and fuel level. Bike’s side stand indicator also seems helpful. It is advisable to keep an eye on bike’s speed, as its three chambered silencer won’t let you realize your bike’s speed from engine’s roar.

Competition

KTM Duke 390 is often compared with Honda CBR 250R ABS, the Royal Enfield Classic, Kawasaki Ninja 300R and Hyosung GT 250R. According to car and bike experts, Duke KTM 390 is one step ahead of others in the segment when it comes to performance.
Compared with Kawasaki Ninja 300, KTM 390 looks smaller in size. But KTM 390’s digital dash board is considered better compared to that offered by Kawasaki Ninja 300 R.
User reviews suggest that riders prefer Kawasaki instead of Duke 390 while travelling through day to day traffic on city roads.
Anyway, Duke 390 does not seem to be the bike that common man can use for his daily commuting needs, unless he can afford to spend Rs 24,000 for a pair of Metzeler Sportec M5 tyres. Some critics also hate the fact that certain parts from Pulsar are used in 390. But when it comes to power and price, Duke 390 is better and affordable.
If you have sufficient money in your locker, and wish to buy “real” bike in India, KTM Duke 390 can definitely prove helpful to make your weekends more exciting while on off road ride.

KTM Duke 200 Review

True to its name Bajaj KTM DUKE 200 screams good looks and performance. This eye-catching bike is bound to turn heads with its chiseled features, ranging from the graphic to the aerodynamic body; KTM DUKE 200 is a clear winner. The bike although, is not just about good looks, if we can tare our eyes away from the masculinity and suave appearance of the bike and concentrate on its features, we will witness that the DUKE 200 impeccably impresses in that domain too.
The engine is a 200 cc single cylinder and is liquid-cooled and fuel-injected. With such a powerful engine, KTM DUKE 200 is expected to churn out a power of 25Bhp at 10,000 rpm and a torque of 20Nm at 8000 rpm. The gear is a six speed one and it has a maintenance free battery. The best thing about the engine is that it feels smooth no matter what the speed is.
The bike does not weigh much at 137 kg which makes performing on it facile and effortless. The bike’s build-up of speed is remarkable and this monster is expected to go from o to 100 kmph in flat 6.5 seconds!
So far Duke did not fail to impress us on the style and performance front but how about comfort? The bike’s seat is comfortable enough to ride long distances and does not cause a strain on the rider’s spine. The handlebars apart from adding to the good looks are comfortable to hold and assist in effortlessly flicking the bike. The Duke comes with an under-slung exhaust system that maintains the bike’s center of gravity and enhances expert handling. The front headlights are bright enough to ensure safe riding at nights and the tyres being MRF offer excellent grip.
Bajaj KTM DUKE 200 has upped the ante as far as sporty bikes are concerned and with it being available in three mesmerizing colors (White and Orange, Black and Orange and Black and green) this bike is predicted to become a hot favorite soon.
Bajaj KTM Duke 200 Price, Bajaj KTM Duke 200 Mileage, Bajaj KTM Duke 200 Colors, Specifications


Price – On Road Price for the bike in Mumbai is Rs. 1,30,000

Engine Specifications
Displacement – 199.5 cc
Engine – 4 stroke, Single-cylinder,
Max Power – 25 Bhp @10000rpm
Max Torque: – 19.2 Nm @8000rpm
Gears – 6 Speed
0 to 60KM/Hr: 3.30 sec.

Other Specifications
Weight – 136kg
Ground Clearance – 165mm
Fuel Tank – 10.50L
Wheelbase – 1367mm
Colors – Black, White, Green

Bajaj Pulsar RS 200 Review

Bajaj Pulsar does not need any introduction, as the two-wheeler is managing to attract bike lovers since the launch of its first model in 2001. Its latest version, Pulsar 200 NS, was launched in 2012, and the bike maker claims that it has sold more than five million units of this bike.
Now, Pulsar lovers are all set to try their hands-on Pulsar 200 SS that is expected to reach the market soon. Bajaj Auto’s MD, Rajiv Bajaj recently interacted with journalists from India’s leading business channel and confirmed the same. Let’s take a look at some of the bike’s possible features.

Style

Do you remember Bajaj’s Pulsar SS 400 concept that it unveiled during 2014’s auto expo? That is how Pulsar RS 200 looks like!
Certain aspects of this bike’s design seem to be bit inspired from KTM bikes. LED tail lamps, integrated turning indicators, dual projector headlamps, alloy wheels, and a regular stubby exhaust are good enough to differentiate this bike from Pulsar 200 NS. Vehicle’s daytime running LED lights will provide additional shine to attract eyeballs during.
Bike’s instrument cluster seems inspired from the one in 200 NS. It will include analogue tachometer combined with digital speedometer, trip meter, odometer, fuel gauge and clock.
After looking at certain leaked images, it is clear that Pulsar RS 200 will be available in white, sapphire blue, ebony black, cocktail wine red and yellow color.

Engine

Pulsar RS is powered by 199.5cc engine, and is fitted with 6-speed gearbox. Fuel tank’s capacity in this bike is 12 liters.
As of now (while writing this review) the company has not released any information about bike’s mileage, maximum speed, and other engine related details. But Pulsar NS is also powered by same 199.5cc engine, and it offers overall mileage of around 58 KMPL. Certain bike review sites suggest that the new model’s engine can reach maximum speed of 135 KMPH.

Braking and Suspension

Bajaj has fitted front and rear disc brakes in Pulsar RS 200. Bike’s nitrox mono shock absorber with gas canister manages the rear suspension, while telescopic front fork manages the front suspension. Vehicle’s ground clearance is 165 mm.
Bajaj is planning to release two different variants of Pulsar RS 200. First variant will be standard and second one will offer certain additional features along with anti-lock braking system. This ABS system is said to be specially designed by Bosch.
Bike lovers waited a lot for this bike
Bike lovers in India are desperately waiting for this bike since almost twelve months now. Hopefully, Bajaj will start handing over Pulsar 200 SS by the end of March this year.
News reports suggest that the bike maker has recently displayed Pulsar 200 SS during an auto event in Turkey. Bajaj Auto plans to release this bike’s ABS variant in certain overseas markets as well. Bike is expected to come with price tag of around Rs 1.25 lakh, plus taxes.

Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS Review – A Next Generation Sports Bike

Bajaj’s Pulsar 200NS is a flagship model presenting very crafty design, stronger chassis and latest engine technology. Intended to combine slick design & styling with new-generation technology, Pulsar’s ‘Naked Sports’ (NS) version is perhaps the greatest evolution ever in the Pulsar series.
As per the changing scenario and buyer preferences, Pulsar 200 NS is an attempt by automaker to change the perception of nearly a decade-old Pulsar brand in the modern context. Bajaj has emphasized on portraying the bike as a true sports bike in order to capture the imagination of young riders.
The Pulsar 200NS boasts of latest technology that takes performance biking to the next level. All the changes done in style and design of the bike go in line with the technology. It is certainly a responsive and speedy bike with impressive numbers. Most of the riders will be happy with its stability and the rate of acceleration.
Overall, the Pulsar 200 NS is an impressive offering with plenty of great features and excellent value for money. Here are some fast facts of Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS:

• All-new in terms of design, styling and technology
• Naked Sports (NS) with attractive decals, graphic’s and shades
• Exhaust outlet below the engine
• New stronger and lighter chassis
• New design for Split-seat
• New headlamp, tail light and turn indicators
• Available in four different shades

Technical Specifications

Pulsar 200NS derives its power from a 4 valve, liquid-cooled 200cc engine, capable of generating a power of 23.17 bhp at 9500 rpm with 18.3 nm torque at 8000 rpm.
Mated to six-speed manual transmission, the mileage of this power bike is 58 kmpl in standard driving conditions with top speed of 136 kmph. On city roads, you can expect a mileage of 30 kmpl while on highways, upto 40kmpl, with a combined average of 35 kmpl.
The bike can accelerate from 0 to 60 km/kmph in 3.6 seconds and 0 to 100 km/kmph in merely 9.8 seconds.
Touted as the next-generation bike of India, Pulsar 200 NS is equipped with triple spark plugs that help to boost the fuel economy. It has a 12 litre fuel capacity.

Design and Styling

In terms of exterior design, the Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS aims to break the ground and to some extent, it is successful. As its name suggest, it is a naked body type, available in four different shades – Ebony Black, Cocktail Wine Red, Pearl Metallic White and Sapphire Blue. Recently, Bajaj has introduced 3 all-new shades in Pulsar 200 NS, which go well with the excellent design of the bike.
The bike also features new design for the fuel tank, alloy wheels and side scoops¸ giving it a stronger yet sleeker look. The bike’s chassis is lightweight yet stronger to boost the bike’s speed and power. The entire front of the motorcycle is fiercer, sharper and aggressive. Overall, it’s a busy and eye-catching design, with various severe angles, cuts and planes.

Riding & Performance

Riding the Pulsar 200 NS is simple and enjoyable. Offering the upright seating position (ideal for city traffic), bike’s seat is positioned higher with a shortened wheelbase, providing it greater agility. Despite being a large bike, its thick handlebar grips have got an enhanced texture that reinforces the feel of control. Its refined engine is punchy and strong and feels smoother while moving through traffic. It’s definitely quieter than any other Pulsar model. Thanks to the bike’s more spare chassis and reduced weight as the leaning doesn’t feel very demanding, in spite of the bike’s bulk.

Top Competitors of the bike

The most advanced Pulsar yet, 200 NS gives a hard time to its rivals not only in terms of performance but also with an alluring pricetag. Some of its competitors include Yamaha R15, Yamaha Fazer, Honda CBR 250R and KTM Duke 200.
Boasted with some fantastic features, outstanding performance and excellent technical specifications, Bajaj’s Pulsar 200 NS is a high-performing bike with excellent handling and strong chassis. With a ‘Decade of Dominance’ in the performance motorcycle market in India, the home-grown automaker is seeking to move the race forward with the help of this latest bike. Traditionally representing affordable price and performance, the new version of Bajaj Pulsar doesn’t disappoint you. With its current price, it is one of the best deals in the market.