Advert

Saturday, September 22, 2007

Super bikes set to storm Indian roads

The next big war in the motorcycle segment is likely to happen in the high-end bike segment. Almost all bike makers are gearing up with a line-up for the super bike segment making the most of the new regulations for bikes of 800 cc and above.

Suzuki Motorcycles India (SMIPL) is in the process of getting government approvals for this segment. SMIPL vice-president (marketing) Atul Gupta said: “We are setting up three parallel process simultaneously to foray into the big bike segments. One is getting the necessary approvals.

Second, training our staff to handle the servicing aspect and third, identifying the cities where we getting large number of enquiries.” Mr Gupta refused to reveal the names of the bikes that are likely to be imported next year. However, auto industry sources believe the company is looking at importing Hayabusa and its GSX range of super sport bikes which could include GSX-1000.

Japanese motorcycle maker Yamaha India has already got its service and dealership position in place and likely to import the first set of its super bikes by November. Yamaha Motor India managing director and CEO Tomotaka Ishikawa has already confirmed plans to bring in R1 and R6.

Arch rival Honda Motorcycle and Scooters India has also said that they are keen on getting the high-end bikes and would not keep out of the battle heating up in this segment. Sources believe that the company is looking at importing its cult bikes CBR 1000 and GLX 1800.

A senior marketing official with a two-wheeler maker said, “The market potential for the big bikes might be small as of now. But no two-wheeler maker can ignore the fact that almost every player will have a line-up ready for this segment. Especially the international bike makers will just have to pick and choose and homologate bikes from their international portfolio.”

Home grown Bajaj Auto’s Rajiv Bajaj in a recent press meet has confirmed that he sees potential in the premium bike segment. In fact, Bajaj is close to finalising its partnership with its long time technical partner Kawasaki to enter the above 500 cc bike segment. Even Royal Enfield is building up a 500 cc engine to be strapped on its bikes.

Via: economictimes.indiatimes.com

Stage II Performance Kit

Stage II Performance Kit

Exciting sound, extreme appearance combined with improved torque.

MT-01 stage201
FOR RACING/TRACK USE ONLY!

Carbon Muffler Heat Shield

Left & right carbon fiber heat shield set for slip-on and full exhaust kit. Required to fit stage I, II or III

MT-01 stage103

Single Seat Kit

Sporty mono seat complete with carbon tail cover. Should be combined with Carbon Muffler Heat Shields and Muffler Kit. Passenger seating not possible.

MT-01 stage104

Stage 1 Slip On Muffler Kit

Stage I Slip On Muffler Kit

Homologated titanium sheathed muffler set produced by Akraprovič.

MT-01 stage101

Muffler Ring Stage I

Enables dual seat in combination with slip-on mufflers.

MT-01 stage102

Carbon Muffler Heat Shield

Left & right carbon fiber heat shield set for slip-on and full exhaust kit. Required to fit stage I, II or III

MT-01 stage103

Single Seat Kit

Sporty mono seat complete with carbon tail cover. Should be combined with Carbon Muffler Heat Shields and Muffler Kit. Passenger seating not possible.

MT-01 stage104

Carbon Air Intake Kit

Carbon fiber enlarged air intake set.

MT-01 stage105

Yamaha MT-01 Styling

Fly Screen

Polycarbonate screen.

Available Screens:

Smoked
Silver
Blue
MT-01 styling01

Sport Screen

Touring screen for more riding comfort.

Smoke
Black
MT-01 styling02

Carbon Front Fender

Racing carbon fiber.

MT-01 styling03

Carbon Rear Fender

Racing carbon fiber.

MT-01 styling04

Carbon Airbox Cover

Racing carbon fiber.

MT-01 styling05

MT Resin Tankpad

Transparent with silver logo

Black with chrome logo

MT-01 styling06

Alloy Footrest Kit

Fully adjustable racing footpegs, billet high grade aluminium alloy with ball bearings in joints.

MT-01 styling07

Tapered Handlebar

Ergal tapered handlebar aborbs more vibrations and reduces weight. Heat treated for additional strenght.

MT-01 styling08

Handlebar Risers

Billet high grade aluminium alloy, original MT-01 design to match the tapered handlebar. Enhances an active riding position.

MT-01 styling09

MT Components Stand Rear

Features:
- 4 big wheels
- Large diameter tube size

- One-piece design

MT-01 styling10

Drive Sprocket Cover

Billet high grade aluminium alloy with carbon inlay.

MT-01 styling11

Performance Brake Lever

Fully adjustable machined aluminium alloy precision lever.

Performance Clutch Lever

Fully adjustable machined aluminium alloy precision lever.

MT-01 styling12

MT Performance Grip Set

High Grip profiled rubber inserts enhance grip and increase feedback.

MT-01 styling13

MT Performance Grip End Set

Anodised alloy, saves weight and increase feedback.

MT-01 styling14

MT Performance Indoor Cover

MT-01 styling15

Fly Screen Alu

MT-01 styling16

Sport Screen Alu

MT-01 styling17

Alu Belly pan

MT-01 styling18

Air Intakes Alu

MT-01 styling19

Front Fender Alu

Including fork protectors.

MT-01 styling20

Brake Vents Alu

MT-01 styling21

Exhaust Cover Alu

With removable mesh, revealing the Akraprovic logo of your MT Performance Slip-On Mufflers.

MT-01 styling22

Spray Guard

MT-01 styling23

Alu Tailpiece

Including license plate holder shaped in MT logo style.

MT-01 styling24

Air Scoops Alu

MT-01 styling25

MT Performance Styling







MT Performance Styling

To make your MT-01 look even more radical we've created a range of easy-to-fit styling accessories, including fly screen and carbon-fibre air intake scoops. And if you're planning to personalise your MT-01 to the max, you'll be wanting the singleseat kit and carbon heat shields that fit with the exhausts available from our official Yamaha tuning kits.

Stage 1

This easy-to-fit, street-legal titanium Akraprovič muffler kit makes your MT-01 sound better, look better and feel better. Fit it in conjunction with carbon heat shields and single-seat kit.

MT Performance - Tuning accessories

You own an extreme motorcycle, so it's only natural that you're going to want to make it even more extreme. That's what our factory-developed MT Performance Stage 2 and Stage 3 gear is for - to unleash serious extra performance from the big V-twin Torque Sports machine. Stage 2 and Stage 3 MT Performance accessories are for track use only.

Stage 2

Okay, now it's time to get serious. Stage 2 accessories feature a revised ECU, plus a full-titanium Akraprovič exhaust system that increases power, reduces weight and emits a race exhaust note. The full exhaust system must be fitted with the carbon heat shields and single-seat kit.

Stage 3*

Want to take your MT-01 to the extreme? That's what the Stage 3 kit is for - get high-compression pistons, camshafts, velocity stacks, special clutch and valve springs and gaskets. All these parts contribute to increased power and torque when used with the also included Stage 3 ECU and full-titanium Akraprovič exhaust. The full exhaust system must be fitted with the carbon heat shields and single-seat kit.

MT-01 DEVELOPMENT STORY

MT-01 DEVELOPMENT STORY

The story begun 7 years ago when Yamaha unveiled their radical MT-01 concept bike at the 1999 Tokyo Motor Show. Like many concept machines the bike attracted a lot of attention. The most interest came from experienced riders who appreciated that this revolutionary new big V-twin would give a unique riding experience. Rather than being the response to market analysis, the MT-01 machine had been created by engineers and designers who aimed to build something different, and along the way they created a bike that fired the imagination of many riders.

Yamaha MT-01 is coming here!

The MT-01 is coming here to shake up the streets with a whole new style of sports riding. We call it Torque Sports and it's all about uniting big-piston engines with sports chassis for a dramatic new riding experience. Our Torque Sport roadsters perform to a different kind of beat, like Japan's legendary Kodo drumbeat, an earth-trembling expression of awesome latent power produced by massive bass drums.

The MT-01 is a supreme products of Yamaha's Art of Engineering philosophy - using cutting-edge technology to create motorcycles that harmonise perfectly with their riders. These machines feel like they're alive, with pulsating low-rpm performance and taut, responsive handling that will get to you on every ride. The MT-01 - ride to a new rhythm.

Yamaha announce the MT01 for India

















THE NEW MT-01 : HEAR THE THUNDER, FEEL THE THUNDER

You can hear the MT-01 approaching - its unmistakable exhaust note rumbling through you like distant, rolling thunder. Now you see this remarkable machine getting closer, then you feel it as bike and rider rumble past, pounding like a beating drum, surging forward on massive waves of torque.

But however much this extraordinary sight and sound grab you, you will never feel the MT-01 quite like the rider feels it. Sitting on top of the MT-01 is like you're riding an engine, not just another motorcycle. And the primal beat of this iconic, ultra-big-bore V-twin gets right inside you, takes you over, urges you to use its massive torque output for a whole new style of sport riding.

Yamaha call this bike Torque Sports, because it's about getting away from the dizzy high-rpm buzz and revelling in the wondrous power of massive low-rpm torque performance. The MT-01 will change the way you ride - use the taut supersports chassis to cut the tightest of lines through a corner, then open the throttle at just 1500rpm and feel those shuddering waves of torque launch you towards the horizon like no other sports bike on this earth. This is breathtaking low-rpm performance that is right there, whenever you need it, at the slightest touch of the throttle, whether you're hacking down your favourite back road or carving through the city. Revs and gears become almost irrelevant - just open the throttle and feel the thrust.

Yamaha to launch superbikes by November

Struggling to make a mark in the Indian two-wheeler market, Japanese bike major Yamaha is turning to its superbikes MT01 and YZF R1 to stamp its authority, with plans to launch the products as early as November this year.

The company is giving final touches to plans of rolling out its flagship sports bikes -- the 1,000 cc MT01 and 1,600 cc YZF R1, besides contemplating a foray into the gearless scooters segment.

"Going forward our aim is to become a dominant player in the Indian two-wheeler market by rolling out high-end or executive segment bikes. Besides, we will also offer two superbikes MT01 and YZF R1 to the Indian consumer by November this year," Yamaha Motor India Managing Director Tomotaka Ishikawa told media.

The bikes are being sold in a range of $10,000 to $12,000 (Rs 4-4.8 lakh) in various global markets. The cost in India would more than double as the country levies a duty of over 100 per cent on imported bikes.

MT01 and R1 would be retailed through the company's select dealers in metropolitan cities and Yamaha is targeting sales of more than two-dozen bikes in the first few months of launch, he added.

Speaking on Yamaha's plans for the domestic market, Ishikawa said the company would not launch products in the entry-level segment and would bank primarily on the executive and high-end bikes to capture its targeted 10 per cent share in the domestic market by 2012.

"We are taking it as a challenge to build the Yamaha brand again in India and have planned several launches over the next four years. However, we are not looking at the entry-level segment anymore as it does not go with the company's image," he said.

Bajaj Auto sees big rise in Q3 sales

KOLKATA: With the festive season round the corner, Bajaj Auto Ltd (BAL) expects sharp sales growth in the third quarter of 2007-08. To achieve this, the company plans to roll out new two-wheeler models on Indian roads and come up with a slew of attractive offers for customers in the coming months.

Bajaj Auto, which is a major player in the national two/three-wheeler space, has registered a progressive decline in sales in the first five months this fiscal. Sales plummeted by 10% during April-August due to high inflation coupled with a rising interest rate. The company sold 9,53,188 units of vehicles in the first five months of 2007-08 compared to 1,057,480 units of vehicles sold in the earlier corresponding period.

Talking to ET, BAL vice-chairman Madhur Bajaj said: “The festival season should bring good news. Diwali is the time when we generally witness strong sales. We are confident of witnessing growth in third quarter sales. We will offer new models in coming months. To beef up sales, we are likely to come up with exciting offers for Indian consumers.”

Mr Bajaj is also hopeful there will be a correction in interest rate in the coming months which will help the auto industry to grow. “The inflation has also eased to 3.25%. This is a positive sign for the overall economy. This will have an impact on the interest rate as well,” he added.

For the ensuing festive season, the company has recently launched 125cc DTS-Si motorcycle. It aims to sell 20,000 units of this new model this month. It hopes to reach a sales of 50,000 units of this model in the next two months.
On the company’s Akurdi plant in Pune, Mr Bajaj said: “We have to pay salaries to 1,500 workers at our Akurdi plant even though they are sitting idle. We’ve stopped manufacturing auto units there. But auto component manufacturing is going on.”

It is well known that BAL recently stopped production of vehicles at its Akurdi plant. On the company’s move to stop production of vehicles at the facility, Mr Bajaj said: “The high rate of octroi was increasing our production cost by Rs 7,000-8,000 per vehicle. Such high-cost of production was hurting our revenues at a time when the auto industry is going through a slump.”

BAL is working on three options for these 1,500 workers. “There are three options that we may consider. We can have a voluntary retirement scheme (VRS) for these people. We may also involve them in some other activities in the Akurdi plant itself. We may transfer some of these workers to our dealers,” Mr Bajaj said.

Bajaj Auto board meets on October 19

MUMBAI: Two-wheeler major Bajaj Auto Ltd's board meeting will be held on October 19 at its registered office at Akurdi, near Pune.

The company's board will consider the unaudited financial results for the quarter and half-year ending September 30.

India to become Suzuki’s export hub

BANGALORE: Like its sister concern in the car segment, Suzuki Motorcycles India (SMI), a 100% subsidiary of Japanese auto major Suzuki Motor Corporation, will make India an export hub for two-wheelers.

Suzuki plans to export both motorcycles and scooters to emerging two-wheeler markets where the annual demand is over a million units. Speaking to TOI, SMI VP (sales and marketing) Atul Gupta said, “India will be our hub for exports to Africa, South America and countries around India.’’ The company is currently evaluating the investments required to carry forward its plans.

This move is in line with Suzuki’s scheme in the four-wheeler market, where Maruti Suzuki is looking at India as an export hub for small cars. About 30% of its revenues are expected to be generated from exports. SMI has so far invested Rs 350 crore in India since its inception.

Honda to launch new bikes from Hero Honda, HMSI stables

NEW DELHI: The $93-billion Honda Motor Company (HMC) will launch an array of products through its two subsidiaries —Hero Honda and Honda Motorcycle & Scooters India (HMSI) — to retain its combined 60% market share in the two-wheeler market. This is in response to rivals Bajaj Auto and TVS Motors’ new bikes on the twin-spark plug technology platform.

Honda Motor Company’s Southeast Asia head and the CEO of Honda SIEL Cars India Masahiro Takedagawa told ET on the sidelines of the 10th anniversary of Honda cars in India, “We are not sitting idle. We have our own strategy and will soon come out with a range of new bikes for the Indian market. I cannot disclose the products right now but these will be extensions of our new two-wheeler technology, which will be launched in the Indian market soon.”

Sources said HMC is contemplating to launch two-three new bikes through Hero Honda and HMSI in the festive month of October when sales spurt due to auspicious buying during Dussehra and Diwali. Hero Honda is likely to introduce new bikes between 130 cc and 150 cc.

(a higher engine displacement than Bajaj Auto and TVS Motors’ newly-launched bikes). A Hero Honda spokesperson refused to confirm the launch and said, “The company would not like to comment on future product launches.”

To counter threats by Bajaj Auto and TVS Motors, which aim to upgrade 100-cc customers to their 125-cc bikes, HMSI is likely to launch new bikes in the 100-cc segment based on new technology offerings, higher fuel efficiency and power. “We are planning to further increase out portfolio in the two-wheeler market and both companies (Hero Honda and HMSI) will complement each other in different two-wheeler segments. The new products will cater to different kinds of demands in the market,” Mr Takedagawa said.

HMC is keeping a wait and watch policy on the recent launches of Bajaj Auto and TVS Motors, which are targeted at gaining volumes in the market. Bajaj Auto launched the 125-cc bike 'XCD 125' on its patented DTSi technology on Sunday at Rs 41,000, about Rs 3,000 lower than the cheapest brand of Hero Honda. TVS Motors had also rolled out a new 125-cc bike Flame on the similar twin spark-based (CC-VTi) technology from its Hosur manufacturing facility in Tamil Nadu, which will be launched commercially in October.

Wednesday, September 12, 2007

Suzuki Smash Revo 2008 - Thailand

Revo is a cub model motorcycle brand of Honda in Indonesia. But, in Thailand the name Revo will be owned by Suzuki. Suzuki Smash Revo, officialy called FK110SD-E model in Suzuki. Smash Revo sounds commercially much better then Smash. Besides in Thailand, Smash Revo also sold in Vietnam. In Indonesia, it's sold in the name of Suzuki New Smash.

Suzuki Smash Revo Pics

The weight and handling of the Suzuki Smash Revo is what you can expect from a 95 kilo, and a wheelbase of 1.23 meter. Nothing special about the handling of the bike, all we had the feeling that the 110 cc engine was a bit more powerful then the average 110 cc. Maybe the source for this extra power is the Mikuni VM-18 carburetor, the Mikuni VM-18 carburetor is often used in racing motorcycles. There are also special racing kits available for this Mikuni carburetor.

Spedometer Suzuki Smash RevoAs all motorcycles in this price class, the Suzuki Smash Revo comes with electric starter and rear swing-arm with 2 coil spring the front suspension is a regular telescopic, coil Spring with oil damper. For brakes the Smash Revo has a single front Disc Brake and a rear drum brake. From the showroom the Smash Revo has spoked wheels, some dealers are maybe willing to exchange this for light metal wheels. Suzuki is using a 70/90-17 33P tire on the front wheel and a 80/90-17 43P tire on the rear wheel.

For fuel this Suzuki bike has a 4.5 liter Fuel Tank Capacity, and for fuel type it is standard Unleaded Petrol (91 Octance).

For performance Maximum power the Smash Revo can deliver 9.8 PS, at 9,000 rpm. With a Maximum Torque 1.0 kg/m at 7,000 rpm. The engine is a 110 cc 4-Strong, Single Overhead Camshaft model. Air Cooled with a bore x stroke of 53.5 x 48.8 mm with DC-CDI ignition. For lubrication we see the proved technology of SALCS (Suzuki Advanced Lubrication Cooling System) again.

The all new 125 cc FLAME


















The all-new 4 Stroke, 4 geared 125cc FLAME is the most innovatively designed offering from TVS designed to win over discerning customers with its futuristic styling and technology. The 3-Valve Engine comes with Controlled Combustion Variable Timing Intelligent (CC-VTi) technology.

The styling of Flame is inspired by the Delta Wing design found in the latest fighter jets. Called “DeltaEdge”, it gives the bike a unique style while giving it superior aerodynamics. The FLAME boasts of several style statements including, DeltaEdge Headlamps, Sporty DeltaEdge Exhaust, Embedded DeltaEdge Trafficators, LCD Digital Speedometer and a Dual Lens Tail Lamp.

Developed by world class R&D at TVS MOTOR, in collaboration with AVL, Austria, the CC-VTi technology features 2 different intake ports called Swirl port & Power port.

Swirl port creates swirl motion of air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber. This Swirl motion helps in efficient combustion of lean air-fuel mixture thus giving highest fuel economy in its class. Power Port gives high flow rate, which helps in delivering high power. The engine packs in 10.5 bhp @ 8250rpm

The 125cc FLAME promises to be the best looker in its segment. Keen attention to detail, marks this new offering. DeltaEdge styling coupled with snazzy dual tone graphics translates into an amazing road presence. With the revolutionary new CC-VTi technology, the 125 cc FLAME successfully provides the advantage of power, mileage and stunning looks.

Product specification: Flame 125 CC Motorcycle

Engine
Displacement 124.8 cc
Engine technology CC-VTi, 4 Stroke
Max. Power (Kw@rpm) 7.7kw @ 8250 ( 10.5bhp @ 8250 )
Max. Torque (Nm@rpm) 10 Nm @ 6250
Gear Box 4 Gear constant mesh
Clutch Multi-Plate Wet Type
Bore x stroke (mm) 54.5 x 53.5
Compression Ratio 10:1
Carburettor Type VM Type - UCAL
Clutch Wet, Multi Plate

Wheels Mag Alloy
Tyres - Front 90 x 90 x 17, Rear 90 x 90 x 18
Brakes - Front Drum 130 dia / Disc 240 dia, Brake - Rear Drum 130 dia
Suspension
Front Telescopic Hydraulic fork, Rear Twin tube 5 step adjustable Gas filled.

Electricals
Head lamp 12V 35/35 W - Halogen
Tail lamp 12V 21W / 5W
Turnsignal lamp 12V 16W
Battery type & capacity 12 V - 5 Ah
Ignition system High Energy IDI System

Dimensions
Height 1070 mm
Length 2030 mm
Width 760 mm
Wheelbase 1320 mm
Ground Clearance 165 mm
Kerb weight 121 kgs
Fuel Tank Capacity 8.0 Litre
Fuel reserve 2.0 Litre

Performance

Max. speed 95 kmph

Scooty Teenz ELECTRIC VEHICLE

The new Scooty Teenz Electric Vehicle has been designed to offer more value and ride comfort. The Scooty Teenz Electric Vehicle (EV), a first of its kind product innovation from TVS is the result of a skilled and committed group of employees and continual innovation of the Scooty brand.

The Scooty Teenz EV has been carefully engineered to a high standard of quality, with many innovative features. It is a reliable, fast and high quality Electric Scooter. It is an ideal balance of style, solid performance and exceptional value that provides customers with a truly fun-loving scooter with loads of features at an affordable price. The Scooty Teenz EV is targeted at women who need mobility, but at lower ownership costs and whose daily travel is limited to around 15-25 km per day. Stylish and durable, the Scooty Teenz EV has a maximum range of 50 km per charge, has a long battery life and maximum utility space.

The Scooty Teenz EV is a pure electric vehicle, with 800 watts power that can touch a maximum speed of 40kph. Once charged, the Scooty Teenz EV lives upto its promise of “All fun, no tension”. Additional advantages include, low running costs, no pollution, no noise and high durability. The Scooty Teenz EV has large utility spaces to take care of every need and promises an effortless ride with comfortable and easy parking. The vehicle comes in vibrant and rich colours and has stylish contemporary looks.

As a vehicle that uses alternate fuel, the SCOOTY TEENZ EV ensures reduced operating costs and guarantees durability, good service backup and sustained performance with pillion rider.

Product specification

Power train
Type Electric vehicle
Motor Type Permanent magnet BLDC
Rated power 800W
Rated torque 33 Nm
Rated voltage 48V
Rated speed 500 rpm
Battery 12V 20 Ah , 4 Batteries
Battery type VRLA
Charger CI and CV ( 48V) - portable type
Controller 48V 25A
Driver control Throttle actuator (Hall effect sensor)

Transmission

Type Wheel hub mounted motor

Cycle parts
Brakes 110 mm diameter
Suspension - Front Leading Link, Rear Twinshox
Wheel Type Sheet Metal
Tyre - 2.75 x 10, 2.75 x 10

Electricals
Head lamp 35 W / 35 W
Tail lamp 21W / 5W
Turnsignal lamp 10W

Key Dimensions
Overall height 1060 mm
Overall length 1685 mm
Overall Width 590 mm
Wheelbase 1220 mm
Ground Clearance 130 mm
Kerb weight 90 Kg
Range 50 Km

Performance
Max. speed 40 Kph

On sale
TBA: Expected by year-end

110 cc ‘StaR City’ Motorcycle

TVS Motor Company in its continuing quest to provide the latest technological innovations in its products for customers today expanded its offering under the highly successful StaR brand with the launch of an all new 4 stroke, 110 cc StaR City. The new 110 cc StaR City comes with the revolutionary CVTi technology designed to offer superior pickup and performance without compromising on mileage. This technology, developed indigenously by the R&D team at TVS Motor Company, inbuilt into the StaR City will make it one of the most fuel-efficient motorcycles in the country. With this, the new StaR City promises mileage, pickup and style thus promising to be the preferred choice for entry-level consumers in the urban, rural and semi-urban areas.

The StaR brand launched in 2004, rapidly established itself as the leading brand in the Industry and has sold more than 1.5 million bikes in less than 3 years. The StaR brands runaway success can be attributed to delivering superior consumer value at incremental cost, consistent product innovation. The new 110cc StaR City is a stylish, compact and affordable 110 cc motorcycle, that provides superior performance without a compromise on mileage, superior styling, the superior assurance of a StaR engine with a five year warranty, superior features and high value.

The CVTi Engine combines swirl and tumble motion to achieve very high in cylinder charge motion. The overall charge motion is three times more than conventional port designs. This apart, TVS has applied VTi technology consisting of deceleration fuel cut off and significantly reduced friction. CVTi engine is this combination of charge motion port and VTi technology giving it best in class fuel efficiency.

The 110 cc StaR City is targeted at both the urban and rural motorcycle customers, who are on the look out for a powerful, compact motorcycle. The bike has been built to deliver a solid four-stroke performance with effortless maneuverability that will give customers the edge to tackle busy traffic with absolute ease. The new 110 cc StaR City comes in eye pleasing colours with new refreshing graphics, which adds to the contemporary design of the motorcycle. Its styling is superior with the bike having a bigger and sportier look with a new speed console and with the legendary StaR assurance of a 5 year warranty a reassurance of top quality undertaking by the company. Additionally, the new StaR City offers the option of an Electric Start and alloy wheels, a backlit speedo with fuel gauge, econometer for better mileage and ride switch shocks for a truly smooth ride.

StaR City 110 motorcycle

Engine
Displacement 109.7 cc
Engine technology CVTi, 4 Stroke
Max. Power (Kw@rpm) 6.1 kw @ 7500 ( 8.2 bhp @ 7500 )
Max. Torque (Nm@rpm) 8.1 Nm @ 5000
Gear Box 4 Gear constant mesh
Clutch Multi-Plate Wet Type
Bore x stroke (mm) 53.5 x 48.8
Compression Ratio 9.8:1
Carburettor VM Type - Keihin / Spaco

Wheels & Tyre

Wheel Type Die cast Alloy / Spoke wheel
Tyre - Front 2.75 x 18, Rear 3.0 x 18
Brakes Drum 110 dia
Suspension
Front Telescopic Hydraulic fork, Rear Hydraulic Triple rated, 2 way adjustable

Electricals
Head lamp 12V 35/35 W - Halogen
Tail lamp 12V 21W / 5W
Turnsignal lamp 12V 10W/10W
Battery type & capacity 12 V - 5 Ah(ES), 12V - 2.5Ah(KS)
Ignition system High Energy CDI System

Dimensions
Height 1095 mm
Length 2005 mm
Width 750 mm
Wheelbase 1250 mm
Ground Clearance 165 mm
Kerb weight 110 kgs(KS-Spoke), 113kg(ES-Spoke), 115kg(ES-Alloy)
Fuel Tank Capacity 16.0 Litre
Fuel reserve 2.5 Litre

Performance
Max. speed 85 Kph

Honda Shine Vs Suzuki Zeus

Battle for the berth..

Honda and Suzuki are one of the respected manufacturers in Indian automotive industry. After conquering the car market both have turned their eyes to world’s second largest two wheeler market – India. Suzuki partnered TVS and had produced good motorcycles like ‘shogun’ and Honda has been giving life support for its local partner Hero and Hero Honda has been the leader. Both have decided to go alone and tap the booming two wheeler market. Honda entered the market earlier and has become an important player in the scooter segment with dio, Eterno and activa. Honda’s unicorn is one of the top seller in 150cc segment. Suzuki made it entrance last year and currently offers 125cc bikes heat and zeus. Suzuki plans to launch a 100cc scooter soon that will take on Honda’s activa. The battle between Honda and Suzuki is a never ending one. The titan’s shine and zeus XCD fights for a berth in 125cc segment.

Engine and gearbox:

Honda shine comes with a powerful engine, only Yamaha gladiator and Honda shine have a power output 10+ (in bhp) also Honda shine has the highest torque in 125cc segment. Honda brand this engine as ‘optimax’ which is named to explicitly convey from shine you can expect maximum pickup as well as mileage. Actually this optimax engine is a scaled down version of the Unicorn’s 150cc motor. Optimax engine features multi mapping CDI, tumble flow combustion chamber, long intake pipe and connecting tube, CV carburettor, two-way Air Jacket and a pulse exhaust system. The engine is mated with heel and toe shift operated gearbox - four-speed and shifts all up.

Suzuki zeus is build for city commuters, it is the least powered engine in its class. Zeus makes 8.7bhp@7000rpm even most 110cc bikes make this. All aluminium, air cooled zeus engine breathes through twin valves. Zeus is one of the few bikes in the market that do not feature the more contemporary constant velocity (CV) carburettor. One more special with zeus is its peak torque of 10Nm kicks in as early as 3500rpm which means zeus demands lesser gear change hence perfect bike for city ride. The Zeus’ gearbox is five-speed and follows the well known popular one down, rest up shift pattern. Finally, shine is powerful while zeus has creditable torque. Shine is faster than zeus and also shine offers a combined mileage/fuel efficiency figure of 58kpl more than Suzuki zeus which offers 54kpl in combined conditions.

Styling and Engineering:

shine.jpg Clear lens indicator and aerodynamic front cowl gives shine a stylish look. Two tone shades, neat graphics, and chrome plated muffler are added design elements. There are no forced cuts, no sharp edges, just clean lines. Shine derives most of its design cues from its sibling Unicorn, rear cowl and front fairing is such examples. Honda shine has standard features such as switchgear, fuel gauge and speedometer. Other than Shine’s neat tank to seat flow and ‘Primary Kick.’ which allows the user to kick start the bike in any gear, without going through the hassles of finding the neutral gear, there is nothing to celebrate. Alloy wheels are absent in Honda Shine.

suzuki-zeus.jpgFrom the front zeus looks beauty with a unique headlamp fairing and a attractive visor The front alloy wheel mudguard sports an arrow-shaped front half. Exciting stickers and ‘S’ decal on the 12L fuel tank makes zeus a worthy competitor in fashion shows. In the rear the zeus makes you bored. Zeus offers best in class engineering with gear indicators that will help newbies, soft and simple palm grips, shining chrome bar end weights- to arrest vibration, wider rear view mirrors – will provide clear rear vision, switch gear, engine kill-switch, twin horns in addition to the standard push to cancel indicator, pass light flasher. Black and white speedometer and tachometer with yellow indicator makes it easy to read. No engineering is flawless, zeus handlebar locks on only one side instead of both. In styling both the bikes are not so magnetic but in engineering zeus scores more than shine.

Ride and Handling:

Honda claims shine features cutting edge technologies such as strong yet flexible diamond frame and Ergo Tec (Ergonomics and Technology) design. Both these enable offers superior absorption of shocks & vibrations thus providing excellent ride comfort & stability as expected on Honda bikes. Even though Honda shine features three step hydraulic suspension the useful tuff tube (reduces the incidence of puncture) affects the smoother riding.

An ergonomically designed, stepped up seat gives decent support and together with the raised handlebar offers an upright riding posture for the Zeus user. Though the bike is lengthier the ground clearance of zeus is shorter than many of 125cc bikes, Suzuki can claim that this reduces the saddle height of the bike making it more suitable for shorter Indian riders. Zeus chassis is a single down tubular member; zeus features the same tubular swing arm instead of popularly used rectangular swing arm which makes handling easier. Braking is via a 240mm disc in the front and 130mm drum in the rear.
Both the bikes are superior in handling but Honda is little ahead in the race.

Price and Verdict:

Suzuki offers warranty for 2 years or first 30,000kms for zeus (not much impressive when others offer 3 years) and zeus is priced in the band of Rs42,725 and Rs46,326. Shine is priced in the range of Rs40,945 and Rs45,844. Honda’s characteristic smoother engine, greater handling makes shine a better vehicle than zeus. But both Honda and Suzuki has to produce brand ambassadors such as splendor for Hero Honda, pulsar for Bajaj and Apache for TVS to get a greater share in Indian two wheeler industry and to get the confidence of Indian customers.

Current and future products:

Suzuki currently offers 125cc bikes zeus EU, Zeus xcd and heat. Suzuki plans to launch a 100cc scooter soon. Honda currently offers eterno,activa and dio in scooter segment and 125cc shine and 150cc sporty unicorn in bike segment. Honda plans to enter 100cc segment and it will also launch fuel injected Shine FI soon.

Rocket III Classic









Whether solo or two-up the Rocket III Classic is a motorcycle that is perfect for those who wants thrills laced with a bit of chill. The Rocket III Classic is the perfect bike for those lazy, long haul trips. Bars are high and pulled back and the bike includes forward set footboards to stretch out on. The pillion is by no means forgotten getting an exceptionally comfortable, stitched touring seat.

The 2.3 litres three-cylinder that drives the Classic has incredible levels of flexibility for effortless riding. Sophisticated fuel injection feeds in power seamlessly, with controlled acceleration on tap at the twist of a throttle, while a maintenance free shaft drive delivers forward motion.

Excellent lock-to-lock movement, an incredibly light clutch and low centre of gravity make low speed manoeuvring extremely easy while the steering geometry and overall length give a securely planted feel at all speeds. Supple 43mm upside down forks and twin rear shocks add composure; twin front disc brakes with four-piston calipers and single disc rear give incredible stopping power. Generous ground clearance completes the package and the relaxed, comfortable ergonomics allow the rider to take full advantage of the range provided by the 24 litres fuel tank (6.3 gal US) making the Rocket III Classic a perfect long distance cruiser.

Do you want to go far? You can, effortlessly, with the Rocket III Classic. Why not go along to your Triumph dealer for a test ride? Then you'll find out what we mean!


Engine
Type Liquid-cooled, DOHC, in-line 3-cylinder
Capacity 2294cc
Bore/Stroke 101.6 x 94.3mm
Compression Ratio 8.7:1
Fuel System Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection
Ignition Digital - inductive type - via electronic engine management system


Transmission
Primary Drive Gear
Final Drive Shaft
Clutch Wet, multi-plate
Gearbox 5-speed
Cycle Parts
Frame Tubular steel, twin spine
Swingarm Twin-sided, steel
Front Wheel Alloy 5-spoke, 17 x 3.5in
Rear Wheel Alloy 5-spoke, 16 x 7.5in
Front Tyre Front 150/80 R 17
Rear Tyre 240/50 R 16
Front Suspension 43mm upside down forks
Rear Suspension Chromed spring twin shocks with adjustable preload
Front Brakes Twin 320mm floating discs, 4 piston calipers
Rear Brakes Single 316mm disc, 2 piston caliper

Dimensions
Length 2500mm (98.4in)
Width (Handlebars) 970mm (38.2in)
Height 1165mm (45.9in)
Seat Height 740mm (29.1in)
Wheelbase 1695mm (66.7in)
Rake/Trail 32°/152mm
Weight (Dry) 320kg (704lbs)
Fuel Tank Capacity 24 litres (6.3 gal US)

Performance (Measured at crankshaft to DIN 70020)
Maximum Power 142PS (140bhp) at 6,000 rpm
Maximum Torque 200Nm (147ft.lbf) at 2,500 rpm

Colours

Phantom Black/Sunset Red, Pacific Blue/New England White, Phantom Black/Tornado Red


Price

$25,990 plus on road costs & dealer delivery

All images courtesy: triumph.co.uk/australia