Saturday, November 13, 2010

Suzuki Slingshot - The Wow! Bike.


The all new Suzuki Slingshot is the new addiction among the you. The latest design in the Alloy wheel is the one which India has never seen before.

Overall length: 2,035 mm
Overall width: 770 mm
Overall height: 1,075 mm
Wheelbase: 1,265 mm
Ground clearance: 160 mm
Kerb mass (kg): 128
EngineType: Air-cooled, 4-stroke, 1 cylinder, SOHC
Bore x Stroke: 53.5 mm x 55.2 mm
Displacement: 125cc

SANTRO ecoLPG - Bifuel Marvel


Hi all,

It's been a long break i posted blogs and am very happy to see you all in the new mood. Hope! you might think why i am posting about Santro which was more than 10 years old and also there were news spreading that the Santro is soon going to be stopped.

Sorry! my heart refuses to believe that Hyundai will stop this record breaker in India (Hyundai - if you are planning to stop this car. Pls! Pls! throw away your thought) Since this car is the one which inspires not only the older but also the younger minds, due to its lowest maintenance cost and better mileage.

With all the existing features, the car is also fitted with LPG (older news though), I came to know this just a month back (too late!) when i was trying to find a better car for my friend.

On the day, when i saw the car it disturbed me and it was awe inspiring (truly better than i10).

These are all my uttering until i came to know about the all new 2011 Santro.

Ooooooooooooooooooooooohhhhhhhhhhhhh! Hurrah!!!

oops! sorry! am sure that any santro fan will shout like this on hearing the news (irrespective of age).

Well what's going to be new in the 2011 Santro?

Well, it's an all new santro and hence it is also going to have it's all new outlooks. Hey! am not kidding! Hyundai has changed the looks completely.

The car will be more like a Jr. i10, but we'll surely miss the family car's homely look! as well as Gorgeous front face! However the revved up engine and the similar mileage will relax our hearts.

It seems the new car would carry same 1.1 Litre engine with peak output power of 65bhp @5500rpm (previously 63bhp@5500rpm) and max. torque of 105nm@3500rpm (97.8nm@ 3000rpm) and new improved speed of (145Kmph).

Boss! this is not just a decent figure. It's awesome from a 1.1L petrol engine. considering its rivalry Maruti Zen Estilo provides output power of 65bhp@5200rpm(awesome!) but poor torque of 84nm@3500rpm(v.poor!), which makes it fuel efficiency bit lesser than the Santro but not in the speed (150Kmph).

Even its elder sibling i10 having 1.2L engine provides peak output power of 80bhp@5200rpm and torque of 114nm@4000rpm.

Also there is no big change in the price just 15K-20K higher. Obviously at reasonable price again).

Let's welcome the new car! However don't miss the old one's if you are planning to buy the current santro you'll be the luckiest. So don't go for second thought else you'll miss the best santro ever, since a not sure 100% about the new car that is yet to be launched.

Cheers!!!

Monday, August 23, 2010

Beasts are at their best : Pulsar vs Apache

It's a great feast for all bike lovers after the launch of bigger p180 and rtr180 with loads of goodies that excite the riders as well as enthusiast.

Apache at its best with the same chassis, different colored cockpit, but with the most refined engine that apache ever had. Its a good news that apache left its fuel injection and put forth its best without adapting latest technologies.

It is a good news that TVS and Bajaj has learnt that still there is lot to be refined in the carburetted engine rather than scratching up a fuel injected engine. I didn't mean adopting to newer technology is worrying. Without even constructing a clear basement.

Kudos to TVS and Bajaj who wanted it to be true.

Coming to the 180s,

Bajaj has upgraded the engine very well. Withdrawing the p200, bajaj has generosly provided the chassis to p180. Not only the chassis, the engine was also revamped. The maximum output power at 17.01bhp@8500 rpm which makes the bike easier to do highspeeds better than its predecessor, however torque engine has gradually come down. With just 14.22nm@6000rpm is much lesser than predecessor which makes it to have lesser pickups. with 0-60kmph at 4.65 sec claimed by bajaj the bike really struggle to make initially when you've tried older p180.

Apache 180 is the all new wine in a older bag. But the feel and joy of riding is fantastic. With a perfect combination of 17.3bhp as maximum output power and 15.15.5nm@6500rpm maximum torque, this allows the bike to be the best of 180cc bikes. Considering the p180 which provides the 125kmph as claimed by bajaj which is quite difficult for the bike to reach. But when you consider apache, the specification are mostly underspecified cos the bike crosses 120kmph hands down with in just 20 secs which is compared with most of the bikes higher than the most of the bikes in the market including pulsar180.

When it comes to 200m drag which is quite easier for the apache to over perform p180 for sure with the added advantage of lesser weight with apache 137kgs and pulsar with 147kgs. Also the size of the pulsar tires which is much bigger than apache tires suffers the bike to increased contact with the road which makes the bike to be less aggressive than before.

Even when the size, tires, weight are greater than apache still pulsar manages to provide a strong mileage of 47+kmpl even at a higher rate of performance. Where as apache struggles to cross 45kmpl.

But still the best is yet to come for p180. After the success of p135, it is much expected that p150 and p180 to be marching in with the four valve engine.

As always lets expect for the best to come.

Cheers!!!

Saturday, July 17, 2010

Honda CB Uniorn Dazzler (Where is CBR150?)


Was it a wise decision that Honda revived Unicorn or Introduced CBR150R.

What is the Strategy behind it?

Well! According to me iit is a wise decision.

Honda CB dazzler is more probably an typical indian bike, which combines a nominal power and better fuel efficiency, which is a plain vanilla which most of the riders prefer.

CBR150R is a super sportr bike which targets indian youths who has passion for speed. If cbr150 was launched it would have been the fastest 150cc bike of india with top speed of 150+kmph.

On the other side, there has been a long time cry from unicorn lovers that an upgraded unicorn would have satisfied them.

So it is even better to upgrade existing bike rather than to introduce a new bike.

But honda needs to take care of the waiting time that makes most of the customers to get diverted to other bikes.

Cheers!!!

Friday, July 9, 2010

Skoda Fabia - Gorgeous Sporty


Skoda Fabia, a successful car from the world leader Skoda a Czech manufacturer, who understood the desires of the Indian automobile industry and strategically launched Fabia into India.

The car was actually launched for the C-Segment, but due to the lack of competency Skoda didn't want to compete with C-Segment, however the car has power equivalent only to the B+ segment.

Before starting, I would like to mention that comparing with other cars is nonetheless for the Skoda Fabia. It is unique and has unique features compared to other cars. First thing is the brand name of the manufacturers which has been kept at a level high for the car.

Followed by the quality level of the car, the quality standards was kept at the best and sure you wont find differences between cars unless or until it is made manually. The driving comfort will be at maximum which will be over taken by the passengers who will feel heaven in the tiny hatch back.

In India Fabia is available in 8 variants - 4 Diesel and 4 Petrol. The 1422cc Diesel engine generates maximum power of 68bhp at 4000rpm with maximum torque of 155nm in the range of 1600-2800rpm. The 1198cc Petrol engine generates maximum power of 70bhp at 5400rpm with maximum torque of 108nm at 3000rpm.Th Petrol version of the Fabia loses all fame because of its smaller engine capacity, where as the Fabia Diesel creates threat to rivalries on the road with astonishing 150+ torque at as low as 1800rpm which will give sure shock pick up immediately.

Considering the mileage, the Diesel version of Fabia does not bad with 15+ kmpl of mileage in city drive. Over all crosses 17Kmpl which is the best mileage from a C-Class segment of Diesel car. Petrol version of Fabia crosses a level above and performs by providing 18.5 Kmpl.

The only thing which make us to stay behind was the price tag, which easily crosses 6L range. Bit costly but worthy buying due to the lower maintenance and excellent service provided by Skoda, Fabia will never fade in its worthiness.


Cheers!!!



Saturday, June 12, 2010

Kawasaki Ninja Marching its troops into India



Following Ninja 250, Kawasaki is all set to action to introduce a variety of sports bike into the Indian Market.


Yes Obviously it's true...

After the success of Ninja 250R which eventually rocked roads, but due to its higher price for a lower capacity bike prevented many to go for Lesser priced R15, Pulsar or just go a step beyond and buy higher end bikes.

After looking into the thirst for higher end bikes in the Hearts of Indians, Kawasaki wanted to quench the thirst by introducing its further ninjas (bigger than 250c). The most expected was the 650R.

Definitely 650R is going to be priced above 4Lacs which will be too costly for most of us, but still who wants power to rock around will not be a deal for them.

To be frank, there is no objection from the Govt. for driving these monsters on our roads provided we follow proper traffic rules.

Also plan for getting Z750 and Z1000 are also confirmed by Kawasaki.

The question is CKD Kits (Completely Knocked Down kits) can be brought at a price of nearly 1.5 Lacs (estimated) for Ninja 250 to be imported to india but the bike costs more than 2.5Lacs. So its again a onfusion that prices would make the bikes unreachable by customers.

Why can't Kawasaki has its own Marketing Zone in India?

Its not my question, its probably the question from all the Kawasaki fans of India...

Lets expect for the best.

Cheers!!!

Harley Davidson - Strong in the Indian Market


The World's leader in Automobile manufacturing, Leader of Cruiser bikes, Professional motorcycle manufacturers, creator of Heritage Bikes of the world - Harley Davidson motorcycle co., has recently launched its Indian HQ near Delhi.

Address:
Harley Davidson Motorcycle co.,
M.G. Road,
Gurgaon,
Delhi NCR.

The Headquarters was has one among the most sophisticated workshops of the world which is operational. It seems that the Harley theme was implemented all over the headquarters by the architects who were among the best in the world.

The most eye-catching thing in the Workshop is amp full of space has been allocated for training.

As the first step into the indian market, HD (Harley Davidson) has launched 6 range of cruiser bikes whose price ranges from 7Lakhs to 35 Lakhs with respet to hte engine capacity from 883cc to 1800cc.

The range of bikes that were launched in Indian market are:
  1. Sportster (7L - 12L)
  2. Dyna (14L-15.5L)
  3. Softail ( 18.5L-19.5L)
  4. V-Rod (19L)
  5. Touring (20.5L-22L)
  6. CVO (35L)



Saturday, June 5, 2010

Discover 150cc - The Smaller gets Smarter


Discover 150cc has come up, but not in its Sprint edition, but in its Newer edition. The expected Discover was much different from actual one. But not more disappointing. To be frank it has it has met the requirement for which it was expected in the 150cc segment. Yes! Mileage! The best mileage in the 150c segment was currently provided by Unicorn and Suzuki GS150R with an best mileage of 63kmpl and 62kmpl respectively. But the new Discover 150 provides you with an awesome mileage of 72Kmpl which is even hard for a 125cc motorcycle.

Everybody would be thinking that when mileage is good then definitely the performance will be bad. astonishingly the performance side did not disappoint too much for the bike's side. The bike delivers 12.75nm@5500rpm which is one among the best torque producing engines which over performs more possibly the Unicorn which has 12.8nm@5500rpm. We could possibly support that Unicorn has better torque but still we should mind the weight of the bike which is around 27Kgs more than that of weight of Discover 150cc.

Specifications:
Engine capacity : 144.8cc
Output capacity : 13Bhp@7500rpm
Engine Torque : 12.75nm@5500rpm
Gear : 5 speed (5-Down)
Fuel Capacity : 8 Ltrs
Weight : 121 Kgs

Pros:
  1. Lightest bike in 150cc segment with just 121Kgs
  2. Excellent mileage - 75Kmpl on Highways & Overall average mileage of 65Kmpl and more
  3. Coolest Top Speed of 110Kmph
  4. Excellent torque 12.75nm@5500rpm with superior accceleration from 0 to 60Kmph within 6 seconds
  5. Disc covers (Truly not a Pro)
  6. Price range of 53K to 54K
Cons:
  1. new 150cc Engine in the Old 100cc chassis
  2. Lesser output power (even lesser than Pulsar135cc)
  3. No fairing cowls as in Sprint edition
  4. No Digital Speedometer
  5. No Tachometer
  6. No special handling features implemented
Cheers!!!






Best Buy Bikes - Options chosen for you


Below are the list of Best bikes which has been selected based on the Three factors which has been discussed in our previous post.

I believe that detailed explanation are not required for why the bike has been chosen.


  1. Less than 100cc- Economy - Discover 100 DTS-Si from Bajaj
  2. Less than 100cc- Performance - Splendor NXG from HeroHonda
  3. 101cc to 110cc - Economy - Star City from TVS
  4. 101cc to 110cc - Performance - CB Twister from Honda
  5. 111cc to 125cc - Economy - Platina 125 DTS -i from Bajaj
  6. 111cc to 125cc - Performance - Gladiator from Yamaha
  7. 126cc to 135cc - Economy -XCD 135 DTS - Si from Bajaj
  8. 126cc to 135cc - Performance -Pulsar 135 LS from Bajaj
  9. 136cc to 150cc - Economy - Discover 150 from Bajaj
  10. 136cc to 150cc - Performance - R15 from Yamaha
  11. 151cc to 160cc- Economy - Apache RTR from TVS
  12. 151cc to 160cc - Performance - Apache RTR EFI from TVS
  13. 161cc to 180cc- Economy - Pulsar 180 DTS - i from Bajaj
  14. 161cc to 180cc - Performance - Apache RTR 180 from TVS
  15. 181cc to 230cc- Economy - Pulsar 220 DTS - i from Bajaj
  16. 181cc to 230cc - Performance - Pulsar 220 DTS - i from Bajaj and Karizma from HeroHonda
Above 230cc are pure performance oriented bikes and cost jumps above 2 Lakhs. Hence they are not considered in this list.

Discrepancies may exist and kindly post them as comments. Let's discuss...

Cheers!!!

Best Buy Bikes - Just to Help you to identify your bike


Dear Friends,

It is not new to get confused to choose a bike in India whose automobile market is well diversified. Even when everybody says that it is easy to choose a bike but definitely it is not. To be frank i have noticed many of them including my colleagues who just bought a bike because of his uncle's word suffered a lot with it and sold it within six months for the price which made me to feel for him.

While choosing a bike one should think about three major factors, they are:
  1. Physical ability
  2. Usability
  3. Maintainability
Physical Ability: refers to the ability to drive the bike. Usually these factors can be easily met as a tall person will know that he can't drive a short bike and short guy will not choose a tall bike. even when some people make wrong decision, the probability of the people who make wrong decisions on physical ability factors will be less than 2%. So this factor need not be considered as a priority factor.

Usability: refers to the usage of the bike. In detail, how the rider's traveling patterns will be? Generally, people choose bike by their external appearance. But that is not fair. The Patterns of your usage requirements play a vital role here. (e.g: A professional reasonable doesn't need more than a 100cc motor cycle if he travel for short distance say within 10Kms, But it depends... because a merchant who need to travel 100 - 150kms a day will also choose a 100cc bike for him for good mileage). So we have the options to choose but choosing your option will be influenced only by you.

Maintainability: refers to the level of care a rider pays to his/her bike. more than 50% of the people forget this or not aware of this factor. let us consider a person who bought a fuel efficient 100cc bike and use to travel for 150kms daily, he needs to change his engine oil more frequently (once in 1000Kms), bike needs to serviced every month so as to improve the life of the bike and quality of the bike. else the characteristics of the bike will soon begin to fade out. If he had chosen a bike with engine capacity of 150cc or more, he might not have to worry much about the bike provided proper maintenance plays a role there also but not as frequent as e have to do for a 100cc bike.

Hope you got the important points to identify a right bike for you, we will discuss on the Best buy bikes in the next post.

Cheers!!!

Indian Bikes - Segment Width increases


As per the current scenario in our Indian Automobile Industry especially the motorcycle segment is itself increases its width and in volume. Each segment bike has Economy and Performance range with in it. (Say100 cc segment which is meant for Economy has also got performance range included in it)

The change in the market segment is actually based on the requirements of the people of India who actually have varied taste in choosing their bikes.

Initially 100cc segment bikes ruled the roads in 90's. But later 2000 every thing started to change and the new era has begun. Pulsar, CBZ, Karizma are one among them who increased the demand for performance bikes.

However, today the trend has been changed and people look into performance even for the 100c bikes, this can be understood by the overwhelming response for the CB Twister. Very soon we'll be analyzing the best bikes that were released in the market recently.

Cheers!!!

Monday, April 5, 2010

New Apache RTR 250 - Terminator of Warriors

The Days of the Old rulers is going to be a dawn. There is going to be no-mercy in the commuter racing. The standards are going to be set high. Indian Bikes still flourish with its new babies who are no more graceful.

Bringing out the Apache RTR250 the TVS was very much sure about the launch depending on the response from the public. Based on the analysis conducted , TVS has a unique name in the hearts of the Indian people and whatever the TVS gives them will be always best according to them. So with full confidence TVS started its new era of racing bike with Apache RTR 250.


Well!!! was it to conquer the second position beating P220 and Zma??? or be the first overtaking Ninja???

Need to do the base work and let you know about the bike in detail.

Cheers!!!

Monday, March 29, 2010

Pulsart 135 LS - User Review by JK



Dear Visitors,

It gives me immense pleasure for me to present you with the User review of Pulsar 135 LS, The smallest yet another rebellious Pulsar. Pulsar 135 LS has over taken all the bikes including Japanese motorcycles of Yamaha, Suzuki and Honda.

Review by J.Keerthi Vaasan

Hi people, i bought my bike on 13th FEB 2010 and i will share my experience with you bikers.As of now i have completed 1000 km & had finished one service.The review part has been divided into 4 categories:Looks, Performance, Handling, Comfort.

1)Looks:Ppl will like the front and side profile.but many gets turned off by the rear esp the tyre hugger(even i do).But it's there to comply with the norms.I also don't like the rear lamp taken from xcd135.I loved the one shown in xcd sprint concept.If bajaj had installed those it wud have completely revamped Ls rear profile by a huge margin.Also the side scoops given in sprint concept wouldd have greatly accentuated the Ls tank by giving it a big bike feel had they given it here.
Overall,with aggressive front & side, and radical rear. its up to u to decide.I bought it coz i am wont be looking at the rear when i am in the bike.So fine with me.

2)Performance:Houses a very rev happy engine.Strain free even at 100km/hr on solo ride.4 valve enhances both performance and efficiency of engine when compared with others(like xcd 135,disco 135) in its segment.The engine exhibits dual nature.maintain it within 4k Rpm mark(around 50 km/hr mark) engine behaves calm stress & vibe free which u wont find in bigger pulsars(P.S:i am not hyping it as being butter smooth like unicorn,GS150 but when compared to its bigger bros this thing is definitely smooth), or rev hard engine gives u pulsar grunt and accelerates from the word go.Of course there is vibes but at a particular speed range typically from 70-80 km and then from 100 km.Elsewhere its stress free.
Braking is done by 240mm front disc & 110 mm drum.overall these two do more than a fine job of stopping the bike from high speeds.(Overdrive performance specs)
0-60km _ 5.5 sec
0-100km_ 17.8sec
60-0km _ 2.5 sec

All these in real world translates into peppy rev free engine ready to blast at flick of wrist amidst heavy city traffic.
Overall a POCKET ROCKET

3)Handling:As This bike is very light(122 kg) it lends a very light nimble feel ready to throw into corners.It turns sharp and deep and confidence inspiring...
However to aid in this nimble nature, the rear suspension is made a little stiff.Hence it feels little hard over pot holes..but those who wont flick their bike much & do regular driving can set their suspension to a softer level, it'll improve the ride quality...
Since the light nature en thrills you with nimble flick able drive, it loses on stability front...In the strict sense this bike is meant to be ridden on tarmac..Switch it to gravels and loose rock you will feel the bike shaking...
But you cant get all guys.light weight gives you flick ability but loses stability over uneven surfaces, adding some weight will get you good stability but you'll lose out on the easy flick-ability front.

4)Comfort:I really hate the seat.Its too damn stiff and pains the butt quickly.So i advice ppl to cushion the seats as soon as you buy.Also the rear shocks is stiff and doesn't absorb the shocks that well.But other than that there isn't much to complain.The seating position is just like elder pulsar.So the bike will be comfortable if these two annoyance is fixed.I am 5'9" and i don't have any problem with the bike..it fits nicely and also has good knee recess.

Summing it up, this bike is a very potent city slicker with good diving characteristics and power.If ridden gently(around 50km/hr.this is the max u can get around in cities most of the time) it gives me around 70kmpl, I have verified it numerous time.If pushed harder mileage ends up at 60kmpl.Rides really well on roads, loses stability over uneven surfaces.The bike may not be that comfortable over long journeys(>500 km) but i ask how many ppl really make those journeys!!!

Indian Bikes review's comments on the Review:
  1. The Mud Guard of the bike was much needed so as to avoid the Tyre to throw water on the followers during rainy season. Another good reason is the pillion will be worried for the same reason but now there is no problem with Pulsar 135 espeially ladies wearing white sarees will always prefer Pulsar 135 LS
  2. Seats and Suspension - It was designed considering the heavy luggage it need to carry. May be it would be difficult for solo ride. but with a pillion too heavy (>75Kgs) you'll still enjoy the ride where most of the bikes make it a hell for bike's engine. Still i believe that the Bike's suspension has to be reliable depending on the User's need (let's discuss on this in detail in my following posts)
  3. Crossing 500Kms is not a big deal with Pulsar135LS, unless or until suitable condition favors. Before that Bajaj 135LS is a commuter and it will suit and perform at the max when to travel less than 50Kms
Any How Keerthi's review was great and we loved it as it showed his strong Passion towards his bike.


Cheers!!!

Thursday, March 11, 2010

Yamaha - invading Indian Market


Yamaha is all set to start it action to invade Indian market. After getting 44% increase in sales of bikes particularly from performance set of motorcycles R15, FZ16 and Fazer.

Yamaha now wanted to conecentrate on the lower end motorcycle and for the same reason yamaha is all about to launch two new variants - SZ and YBR to revamp the 100cc and 125 cc segment motorcycle sales.

Currently the 100cc segment of Yamaha has Alba, Libero and G5 to which the newer and hotter YBR is going to enter with its fine tuned engine for rugged performance to manage heavy loads concentrating the rural market more.

Yamaha SZ will replace the Gladiator which was one among the respected 125cc motorcycle. So the successor will need to have all the qualities of the Gladiator and Yamaha was more cautious with that. Apart from that a more sportier look which will further enhance the youth to go for the SZ without any second thought.

Gladiator was ruling the 1st position in the 125cc motorcycle performance until the launch of CBF Stunner Fi from Honda.

But Gladiator had the best price for the performance and fuel efficiency it provided.


Lets see whether the new variants increase the sales of the Yamaha is true.

Cheers!!!

Question from Arun - Pulsar 150 or Apache RTR160

Q:Hi,
I want to buy a bike please suggest me which bike should i buy
1.Bajaj Pulsar 150 or
2. TVS Apache 160.

Bye

A: Dear Arun,

First of all I would like to know about your choice either raw power or fuel economy combined with power?

If you say raw power and you don't worry about mileage - opt for Apache RTR160. Because it will give you the raw power than what you expect. The engine delivering 15.2 Bhp is much better and fruitful when it comes for traffic roads for you to overtake your opponents.

Pulsar 150 on the other side with new looks (but not new engine) comes into picture with better mileage with power enough to compete with Apache RTR160 but cannot overdrive it.

But the price of Pulsar will favor you to buy it, since you can get a Pulsar 150 2009 edition for just 65k but you need to spend minimum 70k for Apache RTR160.

Also i would like to give another option Pulsar180 which will perform better than Apache 160 and priced lesser than. Better engine power with right looks.

Unless or Until you are a fan of Apache i would suggest you to go for Pulsar 180. You wont feel bad for sure!!!

Cheers!!!

Sunday, February 7, 2010

Pulsar 220S - Rebel wanted its old mask


The New Pulsar 220i which was introduced with the Faired Head Lamp is also launhed without Fairing. The 220i with Fairing will be called as 220F and other one one without Fairing is called as 220S.

What are the advantages of 220S over 220F:
  • The Pulsar 220S will be 2.25Kgs lesser than the 220F and hence the bike's power to weight ration is bit higher than 220F
  • We cant find major difference in Pickup and Top Speed, but in windy roads and traffic filled roads, the new 220S riders will be benefited a lot.
  • Just because it doesnot contain a fairing, it costs nearly 5K lesser than 220F
What are the disadvantages:
  • The 220S Bike will be more similar to its younger sibling 180 except the silencer which makes the difference.
  • Also the rebellious look will be missed when we compare the 220S with 220F
Other than that the bike will surely create a tough competition to the other manufacturers as Bajaj has got variety and perfect competitors for every aspect of bike range in India.


Cheers!!!

Saturday, February 6, 2010

Mahindra Rodeo - Feel the Power of Scooter

The All new "Mahindra RODEO" is all set to action and it is now ready to rock Indian roads with an super fast 125cc bike.

Mahindra has took a bold step and introduced the scooter in the power bike segment, it was astonishing that the bike was able to produce much better figure in terms of Output power and torque better than most of its rivalries.

The most advanced feature in this bike is the console which has been powered with multi colored lights. Also it provides most of the options that we have in car. Also USB port/Charger is provided to keep our Gadgets charged on the move.

Also the bike allows more storage space since only 4.5Ltrs is your fuel tank capacity and is also present in the front.

Specifications:
  1. Engine Capacity: 124.6cc
  2. Engine Type: 4- Stroke, Air cooled
  3. Output power: 8Bhp @7000rpm
  4. Engine Torque: 9nm @5500rpm
  5. Top Speed: 85Kmph
  6. Gear: Automatic transmission
  7. Mileage: 53Kmpl (+or -)2kmpl
  8. Fuel Capacity: 4.5Ltrs
  9. Weight: 106kgs
Even when the bike has lesser output power the est torque and automatic gear system makes it to reach 0 to 60kmph in just 6.8 secs which is not a simple figure in terms of pick up.

It seems Mahindra want to rok two wheeler market how Bajaj wanted to rock car market.

Cheers!!!

Friday, February 5, 2010

Bajaj M80 - Semma Bike!!! (Translated : Excellent Bike)

Hi Friends,

Its my precious time to speak about Classic Bikes. this time, am going to write about my old favorite bike - Bajaj M80.

When there were no performance bikes within 150cc in India only small bikes were considered to be performing. As that tie mileage was the most important factor considered. Out of which M80 is considered to be the most out-performing with the maximum payload of 30Kgs.

It means that it can carry a Driver, a pillion and a Payload, say for example it can carry more than 170kgs at ease with the tiny 75cc engine.


Specifications:
  1. Engine Capacity: 74.2cc
  2. Engine Type: 2 Stroke, petrol
  3. Output Power: 4.5Bhp @6000rpm
  4. Engine Torque: 5.5nm @4500rpm
  5. weight : 83kgs
  6. Gear: 3 manual
  7. Fuel Capacity : 4 Ltrs
  8. Top Speed: 70kmph
  9. Mileage : 55-60kmpl
the most noticeable feature is the bike has only 3 Gears but still it is considered to be the best with awesome 5.5nm @ just 4500rpm.

also due to lesser weight of the bike, it is easy for us to handle the bike.

Also spare time to view the best ad that you can view on M80. It was around 1993-1994, the ad was sung by most of the people in TamilNadu.

The person who still drives the bike is more lucky and still he would feel that excellent crunch of the bike while changing its gears.

Best 100cc Bike - Performance

As discussed, 100cc segment bikes with the Economy its clear. Now considering the performance the order will be shuffled.

The Performance here will refer to the Top speed, Pickup and stability of the bike. Also the price would be analyzed.

We already know the details of the 100cc segment bikes that are going to be considered in my previous post. so let me get directly into the focus.

In terms of Higher cubic capacity and Higher output power and torque, Honda CB Twister gets the first position. Its unique engine design was built such that there is only less vibrations even when the bike is above 70Kmph of speed. the bike's price was just 42K (ex-Showroom - Chennai)

Followed to Honda Bajaj Platina comes to rule, with 99.3 cc engine , the bike gives out amazing output power and torque. The wonderful thing is that the bike is very cheap less than 40K and crossed 1Lac mark for the company within 2 months of time after its release to the market.

Yamaha Libero G5 occupies the third position, even the though the data were lower, because of the bigger engine capacity, the bike gives comfortable performance at higher speeds. The price is also placed at (42K to 45K) which is quite affordable

Next comes Passion Pro, Discover and TVS Star. Discover and Passion pro easily defeat TVS Star in all means but not in the consistency. Passion Pro which was the upgraded engine failed in terms of controlling noise. Where as TVS Star with its ability to control noise even above 70Kmph. Discover also loses to TVS Star in this fact. But Discover defeats both the bikes with its top speed which is obtained as a result of its better aerodynamics.

So this is the Order for Performance:
  1. CB Twister
  2. Platina
  3. Libero G5
  4. Passion Pro
  5. Discover
  6. TVS Star
So the award for
Best performing 100cc segment Bike is Honda CB Twister:

Cheers!!!

Thursday, February 4, 2010

Tata Magic - Magic from Tata


Presenting the New Tata Ace Magic, a newly dressed Tata Ace - Chotta Haati (Chinna Yaanai) is the current cup to be tasted for the day.

Hmmm... Well it's a combination of a Car and a commercial vehicle. It's an MUV which can be utilized for multiple purpose i.e for people transport, carrying goods, etc...

Well its a good Vehicle with a better engine and better pulling power makes it ideal.

Magic provides a very low output power of 16Bhp @ 3200rpm makes it more interesting. Because with the very low output power, the magic can pull around 1ton of weight.

It is because of its huge 702cc Engine with the best torque of 38nm @2000rpm (which is the best one from that much low rpm)

The Magic also provides a top speed of 70Kmph and good mileage of 16Kmpl.

Magic can be used as a Passenger car too. In some cases Middle income group - joint families can use Magic as a car itself. It just resembles like older omni from Maruti and more spacious than it.

Also at high speeds minimal vibrations and Lower noise makes it more better and make us to think about a good MUV.

Best suited for Village transport with lower maintenance cost and better mileage.

Cheers!!!



Bajaj Pulsar 150 2010 - Tuned Speed Machine

Hurray!!! Bajaj is going to come up with its New Pulsar 150.

Not just rumors, the bike is ready and ready to be launched by March 2010.

The expected specifications of the bike are:

Engine Capacity: 149.7cc
Engine Type : 4 Stroke, Air Cooled, 4-Valves - single cylinder
Output Power : 15.1 bhp @8500rpm
Engine Torque: 13.5 nm @5500rpm
Top Speed : 125kmph

It seems clip-on handle bars and thicker forks will also be a part of the features to be implemented.

But only thing Bajaj misses with this bike is mileage. it seems it is lesser than the previous version even though "Swirled Induction" Mechanism was implemented in this model.

Bajaj is going to do it again and revamp the market and going to take its position back in 150cc segment.

Cheers!!!


Wednesday, February 3, 2010

Best 100cc segment Bike - Economy



It gives me immense pleasure to make a review about the 100cc bike segment which is in matured stage (moreover we can call it is in Declining stage) which ruled the Motorcycle segment since 1986 and retained for nearly two decades.

Even now the craze for 100cc bikes has not been reduced that much among the commuters who expect mileage and comfortable riding.

Ooh!!! still the tiny engines has a separate market in India according to foreigners. but we could proudly say even with a tiny engine we enjoy a lot in terms of performance too which has been a special point in the current market situation.

Lets get into our comparison:

The Top bike manufacturers in the 100cc segment are HeroHonda followed by Bajaj, TVS, Yamaha and Honda

Hero Honda with its Passion Pro (latest version of 100cc bike) now leads the sales as well as the sturdiness of the bike makes its to be more economic. The Bikes output power and Torque are more satisfactory and ensures that it is worthy to be praised as a good bike.

Next comes Bajaj Discover 100cc (over taking its predecessor Platina in terms of mileage and gets the next position). The Discover even though built for mileage and ensure top end mileage, the bike also carries a powerful engine which makes the bike fastest in 100cc bikes.

Then comes the TVS Star winning almost in every aspects good mileage, Good performance, Good looks, etc... But the only thing is it has bigger tanks which is also a pros when we speak about traveling long distances.

Yamaha with its Libero G5 and Alba, the same engine in different dresses. Even though the engine size is bigger compared to other bikes, the output power and torque are less comparatively. also it has the heaviest bike category (ranging from 125 to 132kgs)

Honda CB Twister latest launch from Honda. The bike easily wins the other bikes in terms of Top Speed, Pickup and Styling etc...

So in terms of Best torque(Pickup), the order of the bikes falls like this:
  1. CBTwister - 109cc - 9nm @6000rpm
  2. Platina - 99.3cc - 8.1nm @4500rpm
  3. Passion Pro - 97.2cc - 8.05nm @4500rpm
  4. Discover - 94.3cc - 7.85nm @5000rpm
  5. Yamaha G5 - 106cc - 7.85nm @6000rpm
  6. TVS Star - 99.7cc - 7.5nm @5000rpm
Even though the torque was best in bikes, the engine cubic capacity has to be considered for the mileage. So from the Engine Capacity is inversely proportional to mileage and Engine torque at lower rpm is directly proportional to mileage.'

So in the Mileage concept, the Beat bikes order will be:
  1. Discover - Smallest Engine, Lesser weight but with better torque (Best Mileage = 85kmpl+)
  2. Passion Pro - Upgraded engine with carefully designed for torque (Best Mileage = 80kmpl+)
  3. Platina - Second best torque produced, the bike's design ensures free flow travel with then bike (Best Mileage = 80kmpl+)
  4. CB Twister - Topper in Torque, but engine cc is bigger hence mileage = 75kmpl+)
  5. TVS Star - All time star - strong performance (Best Mileage =75kmpl +)
  6. Yamaha G5 - Best Mileage (70kmpl +)
Finally,
The Economic 100cc Bike award goes to Discover 100

Cheers!!!

The All New Honda's CB Twister 110cc sports

Honda CB Twister is a sports addition to the existing current 100cc market dominated by the Hero Honda.

Honda's entry into 100cc segment has made Hero Honda to think about upgrading its bikes. Not only Hero Honda all the competitors did not expect such a move. Well, lets look into the bike.

Even though the bike comes with a name sports, it does not exhibit full features of a sports bike. It has a quite decent looks in its own way so nothing to say bad about using it as a commuter vehicle.

The Performance of the Bike is good, it is able to produce 9bhp @ 8000rpm, which could ensure the bike's performance to the next level.

But still the bike fails in terms of top speed where the bike is meant for a top speed less than 100Kmph(in 500mtrs travel). The 0-60 speed is also not that much better since it needs nearly 8secs to reach 60kmph.

Specifications:
Engine Capacity: 109cc
Engine Type: 4 Stroke, SOHC, Air Cooled
Output Power: 9bhp @ 8000rpm
Engine Torque: 9nm @ 6000rpm
Top Speed : 97Kmph
Fuel Capacity: 8Ltrs
Gear: 4 manual Gears
Weight: 108kgs

Pros:
  1. Excellent Looks and Styling
  2. Excellent pickup
  3. Brand Name: HONDA
Cons:
  1. Top Speed (<100kmph>
  2. 4 Gears
  3. Analogue cockpit
Ratings: 6.8/10

Cheers!!!


Tuesday, February 2, 2010

Which one makes the bike Economic - Mileage? or Maintenance?


Most of us have confusion about choosing the bike.

Some prefer bikes with lesser mileage and some prefer bikes which provides lesser mileage but low maintenance cost.

Which is better? A Bike with Better mileage? or A bike with Better maintenance?

For this debate let's assume a Story.

The Hero is a commuter who needs to travel 50Kms daily to travel from his home to office and from his office to home.
He travels 20days in a month and in Saturdays and Sundays he wont use his bike.
So for a year He need to travel 50*20*12 = 12000Kms.
Of course all bikes needs regular oil change within every 3000kms since he is using a poor grade engine oil just for Rs. 150.

If our Hero buys a bike that provides a better mileage,
say 70kmpl and more will be his bike's mileage and his bike would give him quite charging maintenance say he spends around 500.Rs extra for each service to make his bike better every time he changes oil. (Rs. 500 is too (too, too, too...) much for a new bike. but its just an assumption.

The Total expenditure will be:

Petrol Charges - 12000/70*50.Rs(price of petrol)= 8600. Rs (nearly)
Servicing and Engine oil - 4*(500+150) = 2600. Rs
-----------------
Total = 11,200. Rs
-----------------

Suppose if our hero buys a bike with lower mileage and lower maintenance,
say 50Kmpl and more will be his bike's mileage and Rs.0 will be his maintenance cost but still he need to change the engine oil. Still "Rs.0" is not possible for the new bike since it might require at least small screw change or bulb change.

The Total expenditure will be:

Petrol Charges - 12000/50*50.Rs(price of petrol) = 12000.Rs (nearly)
Servicing and Engine oil - 4*(0+150) = 600.Rs
---------------------
Total = 12,600.Rs
---------------------

This means that an average bike with 70kmpl+ mileage will save you nearly 3600.Rs a year and 1,400.Rs comparatively even if it has poor maintenance cost.

Which means Mileage is more prior than Maintenance for a bike to be owned.

So Make wise plans accordingly...

Cheers!!!

Monday, February 1, 2010

Rocking Year for Bajaj 2010




The Bajaj, leader of Indian bikes who has been stated that "They'll loose Market" after the Re-entry of Yamaha (with its R15 and FZ-series bikes) and Suzuki (with GS150R).

But times are not for a long time. Pulsar revamped again the statmenet.

The New Pulsar 135, Pulsar 150, Pulsar 180, Pulsar 220i and Finally Ninja. All in a row within a short span of 3 months made a better market competition and out of it Bajaj won because of its Good performance bike engines provided at a low cost with good fuel efficiency too.

So What more to say...

Bajaj has rocked again and made their possession more stronger in the Market.

Cheers!!!

Thursday, January 28, 2010

Best Bike of the Year 2009??? - Pulsar 220 i

Well!!! friends here comes the review...

I know that i have tested your patience to a higher level. But for the patience you will really love reading this post.

Ok... let's get into the discussion. 2008 was a good year for the Bike enthusiast as there was a great change in the top speed of bikes from just 135kmph(by Pulsar220Fi) to 140kmph(by R15)
But the prices of the best bikes sold in the market was also higher. (80K to 1.1L)

The Year 2009 has brought us a great change which made R15 a smaller machine which was considered the best in 2008. Because the mighty 250 Ninja entered Indian market.

Not only that the revamped Karizma ZMR Fi, which is no more waiting for others, with its excellent pickup and perfect combination of Gear Ratio make it a bike well suited for tracks possibly.

Other than that remodelled FZ series - Fazer 150, Excellent looks and styling but yamaha forgot to upgrade the engine which slightly made the bikers to make it as a second alternative.

The Suzuki GS150R considered to be one among the best but after its launch market grew enormously making it un-noticable. Not a big fall, still it gives the best mileage in 150c bikes

The new Pulsar 180 UG4, completely new with boosted up looks and engine, provides the best out of it than expected also the 150 gets new design but the engine remains the same.

Apache RTR 180 Menace, Next level of bike Enthusiasm with ultimate pickup and top speed and comfort (not for tall guys).

Ninja is the bike that has won the Bike of the Year in India by almost all reviewers. But am not going to support Ninja. Because it was a product that was over-priced in an economical market like india.

Only because of the prie am nopt willing to provide the Best Bike award. If it was priced between 1.5 to 1.8Lacs sure it will be the Bike of the Year for Indian Bikes review site. (Expecting Bajaj to reduce the price).

There is no immediate competitor to ninja, even though Pulsar 220dts-i, Karizma ZMR Fi and Apache RTR180 follows (Pulsar 180 was not included since its family member was included already)

Comparing Apache 180 and Karizma ZMR Fi,

Karizma Fi is completely revamped, but not to the level of the market. In terms of pickup, Karizma hardly over takes Apache below 70Kmph of speed and some times loses too. But above 70Kmph it rules Apache. But for a 220cc bike it is so miserable to compete with a 180cc bike even after spending more than 10K.

But Karizma with its new fairing gains more attraction but which also make the bike more heavier than others.

Pulsar 220i cheaper than the other two and performs better to the satisfaction apve the mark expected.

Not only the lesser price but also good mileage which makes the bike best suited for an Indian who needs power play with his economic bike.

I could hear rumours about Bajaj's poor quality spares. but compare the prices it is around 50% lesser than the other brands which we mention to be a good quality product.

So considering the Pulsar 220i a best bike with the combination of Economy, Performance and Style and wat so ever an indian biker needs.

Pulsar 220-i Best bike of the Year
Cheers!!!

(Oops! sorry to mention the Runner - None other than the Karizma ZMR Fi - cos he has the best styling and he was designed to rule.

even though he has not won the Best Bike of the Year.

He is the "King Bike of the Year"

Cheers again!!!

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Pulsar 180 UG-4 vs Apache RTR 180 : Let's Rate the Rebels

Pulsar 180 vs Apache RTR 180

Ofcourse it's really a difficult task to ompare two great warriors who are rebels knocking out meach other in various aspects.

Pulsar180 - All time hero, won many awards and races. But UG4 upgrade had a big change in the bike's performance, looks, handling, etc...

Apache RTR180 - Racing bike just took a step ahead and with unlimited performance packed with the same old sturdy body design.

Lets start the comparison with the Engine:
Pulsar has the bigger engine with 178.6cc, where as Apache has got only 177.4cc. Also considering the performance of the engine Pulsar is more efficientnt than Apache.

Top Speed:
Both the bikes carries a tag of top speed of 125Kmph. But actually pulsar 180 will not cross 119 where as Apace has some speedo - errors which inturn will equal the top speed of both the bikes. But i personally feel that Apache will be 2 or 3 Kmph faster than Pulsar 180.

Pick Up:
The Racing Throttle Response wins here, since pulsar will have very low torque at higher rpm (say above 9500rpm) where the bike will not reach better speed within its 4th gear. Once 4th gear is reached Pulsar will start ruling the road.

Mileage
Pulsar wins Apache in terms of mileage. Apache cannot provide you a good mileage (at max you can expect 42kmpl). But pulsar can make you feel better with its 47kmpl mileage on city roads and above 50kmpl on highways)

Price:
Both the bikes are ost effective and not much costlier. but a solid difference of 5000 persists between the price of Apache and Pulsar.Apache can be bought for around 71,000.Rs and Pulsar can be brought around 67,000.Rs incluive of Tax,regn. and insurance.

Final Decision:
Best Value for Money: Pulsar 180
Best Racing experience: Apache 180

The best bike of the two is none and i consider both the bikes as equal competitors and announce that both the bike has won the race in Indian Bikes Review.

Hoping that am Honest!!!

Cheers!!!


Tuesday, January 26, 2010

TVS Jive - Hands free in automobile


TVS Jive, the new comer for the TVS Automobile, is the first entry towards Hands-free (Clutch-free) two wheeler segment.

It has been a strong competition in India in the two wheeler segments with the giants (Yamaha, Suzuki and Honda) rocking the market. Questions arose whether our Indian manufacturers will survive. But as an immediate action Indian manufacturers Bajaj and TVS placed some strategy that is nothing but innovation.

Bajaj and TVS has been constantly innovating and Jive is also a result of innovation.

The Jive bike is an intermediary between Scooter and bike, but the convenience of Bike and driving experience will be just like scooter changing its gear automatically.

The Bike offers a very good output power and pickup. Hence the performance is also not an issue.

Specifications:
Engine Displacement: 109.7cc
Engine Type: 4 Stoke, Air cooled, T-Matic
Output Power:8.4Bhp@7500rpm
Engine Torque: 8.3nm@5500rpm
Weight: 105Kgs
Gear: 4-speedT-Matic Gears
Top Speed: 98Kmph(approx.)
Mileage: >70Kmpl

Due to its good looking and revolutionary T-Matioc gears. the bike would be an real success. Also the T-Matic not only just decreases the lead time for the gear shift, the bike also performs well in terms of pickup because of it.

Cheers!!!




Sunday, January 24, 2010

Pulsar 135 LS - Small Thunder


Pulsar 135 with its predecessor's name is not worthless when compared with other bikes of its segment.

Pulsar 135 Engine is from Discover 135(old) though there are many upgrades which just brings the bike to the peak of performance. Out of which, i would say the best upgrade was the four-valved engine which provides the bike a better output than we think from a tiny 135cc engine.

First when i started the bike, it was just like XCD engine, but still i could find the difference in the Exhaust sound which sounded something rebellious. Since it was my first ride with Pulsar135 i don't wanted to clock top speed. But once i started my ride smoothly, i shocked to see my bike crossing 65kmph at no efforts. The bike's vibration slightly disturbed me that am driving fast(other pulsars will disturb gradually) . (Vibrations are not like XCD that's really cool). Actually i should not compare it with any of the 125cc or 135cc bikes. Its worthy to be compared with 150cc bikes.

The bike is very light and also carries a small engine tank unlike other pulsar, due to this Kutti (Chotta) pulsar, can rock the roads easier due to lessr weight that it carries.

About pickup, the pulsar135 has a good pickup. Am able to reach 0-60kmph within in 6 secs (with the third gear when crossing 60). the sound that was produced was reduced much in this bike. But i feel that the foot rest gives me more vibratin compared to our bigger pulsars.

Seating position is also good but i dont think that this bike will suit tall guys (say above 5'10''). However the clipon handles and the engine soop will make you feel definitely that you are on a race. So commuters drive carefully.

Smaller front suspensions used in Pulsar 180UG-3, Pulsar 150 UG-3&4, was used in this bike, since the bike weighs only 122Kgs, also it will be best suited.

Other than that arrogant looks, Excellent top speed (111kmph) were also the features that will knock your heart.

Speifications:
  • Engine Dsplacement : 134.6cc
  • Engine Type : 4 Stroke, Air Cooled, 4 - valved
  • Output Power : 13.5Bhp@9000rpm
  • Engine Torque : 11.4nm@7500rpm
  • Gear : 5 Speed gear box
  • Fuel Tank : 8Ltrs (XCD)
  • Weight : 122Kgs
  • TopSpeed : 115kmph
Hope the bike would disturb both 125cc and 150cc bike segment.

Expecting more and more outcomes interms of innovation and technology.

Cheers!!!

Kawaski Ninja - The King of Kings

Ninja... The name itself makes us feel Wow!!! Isn't it?

Well... after a long time in this new year i'm proud to review about the best Indian Entry Level sports bike.

a 249 cc bike with more than 30bhp is not just a simple information to discuss about.

Remember that the follower, P220 itself is unable to produce more than 21.5bhp. Then the bike is undoubtedly a leader in the current market situation.

Unluckily i didn't get a chance to drive the bike. But i am very much glad that at least I've been allowed to get seated on the bike.

Man!!! you wont believe that was the most aggressive seating position that I'd seen in our old Indian bikes. Actually i should not compare ninja with the current toppers of Bike Pulsar, Karizma, R15 due to their smaller sized engines. Not only the seating position, the view of the bike is also astonishing and sure the owner will not be on earth when he rides on it.

Specifications:
  1. Displacement: 249cc
  2. Engine Type: 4 Stroke, SOHC, Fuel Injected
  3. Output Power: 33Bhp @11500rpm
  4. Engine Torque:22nm @8000rpm
  5. Fuel Capacity: 17Ltrs
  6. Gear: 6 Speed Gear box
  7. Weight: 172Kgs
  8. Top Speed: 175Kmph
Pros:

  1. Style and Design
  2. Over-All-Quality of the Bike
  3. Durability and Longevity of the Engine
Cons:
  1. Very Costly nearing price of cars in india
  2. Mileage is not satisfactory even when bajaj claims 42kmpl

Ratings: 9.1/10


Cheers!!!


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