2013 Kawasaki Ninja 250R revealed

Kawasaki fans might have a reason to cheer has the company recently revealed the official photos of 2013 Kawasaki Ninja 250R on the Kawasaki Japan Website. Although complete technical details/specifications are still awaited, we are sure about the fact that Bajaj would definitely want to bring it to India.

The 2013 model of Ninja 250R now looks like the ZX-10R, featuring revised angular bodywork with large slotted vents and a floating mount windscreen. The front turn indicators are now clear lens and housed in the fairing. A set of new alloys with 140mm rubber at the rear, a chiselled tail and new exhaust system complete the set of cosmetic changes.

According to information available on company website, Ninja 250R will possess a new DOHC Parallel Twin engine with new pistons, crank cases and cylinders. Kawasaki claim that the low and mid range torque have been boosted for this bike, though they haven’t revealed the power and torque figures. An optional for various markets digital fuel injection system also makes its debut in the Ninja 250R. ABS is also available as an option now with Kawasaki claiming it to be the world’s smallest unit

The best part thought is the all new digital and refreshed console the new model incorporates. We still remember that majority of the people in India thought the old 250′s console was a bit out-dated, well that has been given a major cosmetic boost and looks amazing. The available colors for the new Ninja include Lime Green, Lime Green/Ebony (special edition), Passion Red, Passion Red/Stardust White (special edition), Ebony/Metallic Moondust Grey (special edition) and Pearl Stardust White.

Although no official declarations as to what price of new Ninja 250R should be but considering 2012 prices which stand at $4,199 (Approx 2.34 lakh INR), it is estimated that Kawasaki will be pricing the 2013 model in the same bracket.

Honda VFR to feature world's first twin clutch for bikes

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. today announced that it has developed the Dual Clutch Transmission, the world's firstfully automatic motorcycle dual-clutch transmission for large-displacement sport bikes.

The new transmission provides riders with a sporty riding experience, combined with easy operation and superior transmission efficiency, which delivers fuel economy equal to or better than a conventional manual transmission. The new VFR large-displacement sport bike equipped with the new transmission will be released in Europe and North America in 2010, with sales to commence in Japan at a later date.

This world's first motorcycle dual clutch transmission features a light, compact design that allows it to be combined with existing engines without substantial layout modification. Further, the new transmission delivers the precise acceleration control which riders require thanks to electronic control technology that helps ensure smooth, seamless gear changes. In order to respond to rider demands in a broad range of situations, the transmission is equipped with three operating modes, including two full-auto modes (D-mode for regular operation and S-mode for sporty riding); and a 6-speed manual mode, which delivers the same shift feel as a manual transmission. Honda intends to gradually expand the deployment of the new transmission to more and more of its large-displacement motorcycles, particularly sports models destined for use in traditional large motorcycle markets.

The new transmission features a dual clutch transmission configuration in which independent clutches are employed for the odd gears (1st, 3rd, 5th) and even gears (2nd, 4th, 6th), respectively. The two clutches operate alternately to effect gear changes. For example, when changing from 1st to 2nd gear, the computer detects the up-shift and engages 2nd gear, then releases the 1st-gear clutch while engaging the 2nd-gear clutch to achieve a seamless gear change. While some existing dual-clutch transmissions arebulky, the new system employs original technologies such as dual input shafts, an innovative in-line clutch design, and concentration of hydraulic circuitry beneath the engine cover to achieve a compact design. Compactness and lightness is further enhanced through the use of a simple shift mechanism design based on that of a conventional motorcycle shift drum. Optimised shift scheduling achieves fuel economy equal to or better than that of a fully manual transmission, enabling Dual Clutch Transmission to deliver both sporty riding and environmental performance combined.

It's official now. Kawasaki Ninja 250R is finally hitting the roads in India. Bajaj Auto has confirmed the launch date of the bike as 6th and 7th of October. The Bike will first be launched in Pune and subsequently across India. We are expecting a price tag of under 2lakh OTR Pune, but Bajaj Auto may just pull a surprise on all its rivals by pricing the bike even lower. Stay tuned for more updates, and trust us to bring you the ride report of the baby Ninja before anyone else!

Honda launches Dream Yuga commuter motorcycle at Rs 44,642 ex-Delhi

Honda Motorcycles and Scooters India today launched their first ever mass market motorcycle, the Dream Yuga in New Delhi. The company in a statement, today said that ‘Honda has unleashed its first big step towards mass mobility in India.’

The Dream Yuga is powered by a 110cc Honda engine with a peak power output of 8.5 BHP @ 7500 RPM and 8.51NM @ 5500rpm of peak torque. Honda claims a fuel efficiency figure of 72 kmpl in test conditions which resemble the city driving environment.

The bike's engine is equipped with technologies like the 'Honda Intelligent Ignition Control System' which changes ignition timings to attain ideal combustion, leading to improved power output and efficiency.

The Dream Yuga has the typical commuter motorcycle look with a bikini fairing. Honda, however, have tried to add some dashes of sportiness in places to make this econo-commuter more attractive to the masses. The dream Yuga is expected to be the first real challenger to the reigning Splendor from Hero Motocorp stable, and is expected to propel Honda as the indisputable second largest bike maker in the country after its former partner in a short span of time.

The Dream Yuga looks reasonably stylish for the class with a black colored engine, sportily styled exhaust, body colored grab rail, and nice alloy wheels. The Dream Yuga comes with a viscous air filter, 120mm front suspension travel and a long, comfy seat. The bike is also equipped with tuff tubeless tyres for better reliability. The drive chain too is fully covered for optimum performance over long periods. Honda is also providing maintenance free battery for added peace of mind.

According to Honda, the Dream Yuga is specially developed for Indian customers, keeping in mind their practical commuting needs. Starting May'12 end, Dream Yuga is available for sale in three variants-

Kick/Drum/Spoke
Kick/ Drum/Alloy
Self/ Drum/Alloy

The starting price of the bike is Rs. 44,642 (Ex-Showroom, Delhi). The motorcycle comes in 5 colors: Black, Monsoon Grey Metallic, Alpha Red Metallic, Force Silver Metallic & Maple Brown Metallic.

At the launch, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd - Mr. Keita Muramatsu said “The New Corporate Direction is a step forward towards Honda’s objective to attain leadership position in India. We are delighted to have Akshay Kumar as new Brand Ambassador as he personifies Honda’s philosophy of Sach Kardenge Sapne and captures the imagination of Indian customers. With him on board, we will touch the heart of young India! ”

On his association with Honda, Akshay Kumar, the new brand ambassador for the company said, “Honda as the World’s No. 1 motorcycle maker carries with it a legacy of customer oriented products from 50cc to 1800cc and goodwill of over 200 million customers worldwide. I am deeply impressed by Honda’s vision and proud to associate with this young and vibrant Brand that is innovative, technologically advanced and committed to society.”

Bajaj Pulsar 200NS to be launched next week. The wait is soon going to be over!!

Back in 2001, the Pulsar twins started a revolution of sorts. The advent of Brand Pulsar pioneered the democratization of performance biking, offering affordable motorcycles which were not mere commuters. 10 years on, Brand Pulsar, as we know it today has an unparalleled Indian fan base. So the big question that I ask myself as I begin writing this post is, will the new Pulsar, that we tested about 3 months back, be able to do justice to the to its celebrated lineage? Does it have enough substance to snatch buyers from Yamaha R15? Would it be able to carry forward its predecessor’s legacy into an era where Indian biking seems to have finally come of age? The stakes are much higher now than ever before. The Indian biking enthusiast buying into the Pulsar segment has a bigger pocket, and far more options. So does the new Pulsar sustain its relevance as strongly as it did ten years back and throughout the course of its existence? These questions will be answered only in due course of time. However, the news here is that the eagerly awaited bike will be launched in Maharashtra next week and this will be soon followed with launch at other places. This is no rumour but Rajeev Bajaj has said this to a national news channel in an interview. It may be noted that Mr. Rajiv Bajaj had promised a sub INR 1 lakh price for this bike and if Bajaj stays true to its word, we expect the new bike to give a lot of sleepless nights to rivals.

Pulsar 200NS Specifications

Engine

Type SOHC – 4V – Liquid Cooled

Combustion system                           Triple spark

Ignition system Independent spark control through ECU

Crankshaft Type          Integral

Max Power                   23.52 PS @ 9500

Max Torque                  18.3 Nm @ 8000

Bore                               72 mm

Stroke                            49 mm

Displacement                 199.5 cc

Fuel system Carburettor, UCD 33

Air filter Paper element

Exhaust system Exhaust TEC enhanced centrally mounted

Vehicle

Frame Type Pressed steel Perimeter Frame

Wheel Base                         1363 mm

Length x height x width      2017 mm x 1195 mm x 804 mm

Seat ht-Rider                       805 mm

Ground Clearance               167 mm

Vehicle Kerb weight            145 kg

FAW/RAW                           72/73 kg

Fuel Tank capacity               12 L

Suspension

Front suspension Telescopic Front Fork with Antifriction Bush Dia 37

Rear Suspension Nitrox Mono Shock Absorber with piggy back gas canister

Brakes – type

Front Petal Disc with floating caliper

Rear Petal Disc with floating caliper

Brake Size

Front Dia 280 mm Disc

Rear Dia 230 mm Disc

Tyres

Front 100/80 – 17, 52 P, Tubeless

Rear 130/70 – 17, 61 P, Tubeless

Rims

Front 10 spoke 2.5 x 17, Alloy

Rear 10 Spoke, 3.5 x 17, Alloy

Max Speed 136 Kmph

Acceleration

0-60 kmph 3.61 sec

0-100 kmph 9.83 sec

Braking performance

Braking Distance – Both brakes (60 – 0 Kmph) 16.33 meters

Electricals

System DC Ignition

Battery        12V 8AH VRLA

2012 Mercedes Benz M Class to be launched in May

Mercedes India is all set to launch the 2012 M-Class in the Indian market.

The latest edition of the popular SUV is an all new product. However, the first word that comes to the mind when glanced at is – ‘Bland’. Though Mercedes seems to have solved the space issue which made the previous M-Class a hassle to sit in. There is a visible change in the size of the car and looks like the 2012 M-Class will come with an extended wheelbase taken from its elder sibling the GL-Class. The 2012 M-Class also features a huge panoramic sun-roof which will make the cabin come alive with fresh incident light. There is also the wrap around rear windscreen which makes the M-Class stand out of the crowd.

The insides are typical Mercedes top notch standard quality with a lot of wood used to give that upmarket feel. The ML 350 CDI will be laucnched first. The motor here pumps out some 258bhp and churns out 63.2kgm of pulling power. The motor is mated to a seven-speed 7G-Tronic gearbox along with permanent four-wheel drive as a standard feature.

The car could be priced in INR 65-70 lakhs bracket.

Yamaha FZ series gets minor updates

Popular 150cc bike, the FZ 16 and others from this series, get a few changes to keep them from rapidly aging. The FZ-S also gets a new paint shade- Fiery Orange.
The FZ-S is now being offered with a choice of as many as 4 colors to chose from- Black Cyber Green, Sunset Red, Competition White and the new Fiery Orange.
The FZ series in India also gets a revised pillion seat. This is owing to the feedback the FZ users have been providing to the bike manufacturer. It is no secret that the FZ’s pillion seat isn’t the most comfortable around. Now, the rear seat has been elongated and widened a little.
FZ series also gets a new grab rail. Yamaha says,“The grab bar not only acts as a backrest but is something the pillion rider can hold on to if the road is bumpy”. The FZ also gets a new chain cover to cover both the upper and lower portions of the chain.
Unfortunately, the engine has remain untouched. The good bit here though is that the prices remain unchanged. While most of these changes might go unnoticed, I am quite sure that the better half will surely enjoy the revised seat.

SPECIFICATIONS:-

Engine type                                                       Air-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC
Displacement                                                    153.0cc
Bore & Stroke                                                   58.0 × 57.9mm
Compression ratio                                             9.5:1
Maximum output                                               14PS / 7500 rpm
Maximum torque                                               13.6 N.m / 6000 rpm
Starting method                                                 Electric & Kick
Lubrication type                                                Wet sump
Fuel Supply                                                        Carburetor
Clutch type Wet,                                                 multiple-disc
Primary/secondary reduction ratio                      3.409 / 2.857
Transmission type Constant mesh 5-speed
Gear ratio                                                           1st=2.714 ,2nd=1.789, 3rd=1.318
                                                                           4th=1.045,5th=0.875
Cylinder layout                                                   Single Cylinder



Ex-Delhi prices-

FZ Rs. 67,000
FZ-S Rs. 69,000
Fazer Rs. 74,000