Honda Rolls Out World’s First Motorcycle Airbag

Along with Deadly features ike satellite navigation, 80-watt per channel premium audio with six-element speaker system, a cold-weather comfort package which includes foot-warming system channelizing engine-heated air over the rider’s feet and is controlled by a fairing-mounted lever, the new Honda Gold Wing comes with first protection airbag system.

The safety airbag fixed between the handlebars will be able to absorb some of the forward thrust during an accident, but only when the driver is still on its seat after the crash, which I doubt will ever happen on that speed…better take a bicycle, if not tempted to roll your wrist full on these wings.

Don’t think twice while shelling out $22,800, it’s worth it.

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World's First Fuel Cell Motorcycle

This is ENV, the world's first purpose-built, fuel-cell motorbike - ahead of any of the world's leading automotive companies. The ENV bike is the creation of Intelligent Energy, a British energy solutions company, whose board includes Chairman Sir John Jennings, the former Chairman of Shell Transport and Trading.

The ENV (Emissions Neutral Vehicle) bike was designed to Intelligent Energy's brief by a British team, led by multi-award-winning designers Seymourpowell. The ENV bike is fully-functioning and has been engineered and purpose-built (based around Intelligent Energy's CORE fuel cell) from the ground up, demonstrating the real, everyday applicability of fuel cell technology. The CORE, which is completely detachable from the bike, is a radically compact and efficient fuel cell, capable of powering anything from a motorboat to a small domestic property.

The ENV bike is different. It offers an exhilarating glimpse of what can be achieved: a great-looking and exciting fuel-cell motorbike. "In the none-too-distant future", commented Intelligent Energy CEO Harry Bradbury, "people will be able to use a bike like ENV to leave work in an urban environment, drive to the countryside, detach the CORE and attach it to another vehicle, such as a motorboat, before going on to power a log cabin with the very same fuel cell, which could then be re-charged from a mini hydrogen creator, the size of a shoebox."

The ENV motorcycle

ENV is lightweight, streamlined and aerodynamic. In an urban or off-road environment, it can reach speeds of 50 mph. It is also virtually silent (with noise emissions equivalent to an everyday home computer) and its emissions are almost completely clean. On a full tank, the ENV bike could be used continually for up to four hours without any need for re-fuelling. The bike can also be used by riders of any skill level with simple controls, via a throttle directly linked to the applied power. The bike has no gears and is strictly defined as a motorbike, although it feels to riders more like a very quick and responsive mountain bike. "ENV is light, fast and fun", commented Seymourpowell director Nick Talbot. "It has good ground clearance, great off-road suspension travel and a very carefully considered power to weight ratio. I have ridden motorbikes for years", he added, "and, in the process of designing the bike, I have become a convert to fuel cell technology. The bike is usable, useful and great-looking. It was important on this project to demonstrate that new technologies don't have to be wrapped up in a dull product ­ engaging public imagination and enthusiasm is key."

ENV has been produced in two monochromatic colourways: black supergloss and iridescent white. 'This was to express the bike's parallel natures', explained Nick Talbot. "On the one hand, it expresses a utopian future vision of clean power, anywhere - and on the other, it's an exciting, hard-edged bike and fun to ride."

The bike's primary frame and swinging arm are made from hollow-cast aircraft grade aluminium. At the bike's heart is a fully-integrated 1kW fuel cell generator providing power on demand directly to the drive-train. To enhance performance during peak power demand (ie when accelerating), the fuel cell is hybridised with a battery pack to provide a 6kW peak load to the motor. The result is a balanced hybrid concept which combines the main advantages of Intelligent Energy's CORE fuel cell, hydrogen storage and battery technology."

The design of the CORE

"When it came to designing the casing for the CORE", commented Seymourpowell's Nick Talbot, "we treated it as a standalone project, giving this radical fuel cell its due as a beautiful, valuable and useful energy resource. The CORE, which can be detached completely from the bike, is therefore designed to create interest as an enigmatic object. Although mostly encased in identical aluminium to the bike, of which it at first seems a completely integral part, the CORE is also part-covered on one plane in a micro-etched, textured and durable shell, in a pattern derived from brain coral. The pattern alludes to the fact that this is solid state technology ­ but is also functional, in that the intricate patterns also disperse heat. We wanted this to be a finer and more beautiful object than, say, a diesel generator - and to make people look again at this new technology with a sense of wonder."

"The launch of ENV breaks new ground and opens up a whole new field of opportunities for low- and high-power fuel cell motorbikes,' commented Harry Bradbury. 'ENV and its successors are good for the consumer and the environment. This is a fun vehicle with a realistic role to play in the leisure environment, as well as a role in emissions reduction from Boston to Bangkok. There has been much talk about low-carbon emission vehicles. Here is one at last."

Key Components of the Bike Power System

Motor - 6kW, 48 VDC Brush motor (model LEM-170, supplied by LMC)
Motor Controller - Brusa Direct Current (model MD 206)
Fuel Cell - 1kW Intelligent Energy air-cooled (2 x AC32-48)
Hydrogen Storage - High pressure carbon composite cylinder (Luxfer L65)
Hydrogen Energy - 2.4kWeh
Storage Battery - 4 x 12V Lead Acid (15Ahr) connected in series

Performance Data

Acceleration - 0 ­ 20 mph in 4.3s (32kph), 0 ­ 30 mph in 7.3s (48 kph), 0 ­ 50 mph in 12.1s (80kph)
Top speed - 50 mph (80kph) (note: ENV has been tested to 50mph ­ however, with further refinements and redevelopments, this top speed is expected to be exceeded)
Range - At least 100 miles (160km)

Physical

Bike mass - 80 kg (Total mass including CORE)

Fuel

Hydrogen - 99.9% purity
Oxygen - Taken from air
Hydrogen refuel time less than 5 minutes

Interface

Electrical connection - Multi-core (Intelligent Energy specific)

Source:- Rubbermag

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Maruti Udyog Launches All-New Zen Estilo

Maruti Udyog Limited has reinvented the Zen as the Zen Estilo to take on new competitors in the compact car segment.

Hyundai Motors, General Motors, Honda Siel and Volkswagen are gearing up to enter the compact car segment and analysts believe this has forced Maruti to reinvent its popular offering.

Priced between Rs 3.19 lakh and Rs 4.24 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) across its four variants — Lx, Lxi, Vxi and Vxi with the anti-lock breaking system (ABS) — the Estilo comes with a 1061-cc engine delivering a torque of 64 bhp. The earlier Zen had a 990-cc engine.

The car replaces the first-generation Zen, which Maruti withdrew about eight months ago.

Launched in 1993, the Zen became one of Maruti’s most popular models next only to its cheapest offering, the Maruti 800. The company sold 7,60,000 Zens, including exports of over 1,22,000.

The new car will be pitted against Hyundai’s Santro and Getz, Tata Motor’s Indica and may also eat into the sales of Maruti’s own popular models, the Swift and Wagon R.

The Zen Estilo — a Spanish term for style — is built on Suzuki’s popular hatchback MR Wagon. It has been put together to conform to the standards of a rigid ‘monoform’ design with smart interiors and distinctive aerodynamics.

“Young people in India today desire products with contemporary styling and international appeal. The new Zen will appeal to this new India, just as the original Zen appealed to the India of the mid-1990s. It incorporates features and attributes that are uniquely suited to the country,” said Maruti MD Jagdish Khattar.

The car will be available in purple fusion, champagne beige, virgin blue and olive green.

Source:- The telegraph

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Motorcycle Land Speed Record pushed to 350 mph

Denis Manning’s motorcycles have been chasing world land speed records for over three decades and in September, the BUB 7 Streamliner he designed and built captured the ultimate goal when it set the new absolute motorcycle land speed record at Utah’s Bonneville Salt Flats. Rider Chris Carr piloted the BUB 7 streamliner to 354.832 mph on the down run and 346.939 mph on the return for an average speed of 350.885 mph, a new world record. Prior to the 2006 BUB Motorcycle Speed Trials the absolute motorcycle land speed record had not been broken since Dave Campos achieved his 322.149 mph world record run in 1990.
Of course, building the world's fastest motorcycle from the ground up is nothing new to Manning. In 1970 another Manning-built streamliner earned the title of world's fastest motorcycle. That machine was driven 265.492mph by legendary road racer Cal Rayborn.

In over 30 years of chasing land speed records Denis Manning, and his team, have overcome some unique challenges in order to reach success. In September 2007, they will once more return to the salt to defend their absolute motorcycle land speed title at the fourth annual gathering of the world’s fastest motorcycles, the BUB Motorcycle Speed Trials scheduled for September 2 – 6, 2007. Competitors from around the globe will again meet on the Utah’s legendary Bonneville Salt Flats. The FIM (Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme) and AMA (American Motorcyclist Association) sanctioned event is the only land speed racing meet solely dedicated to motorcycles, offering the world’s top builders and racers the opportunity to break world and national speed records.

Denis Manning, a 2006 inductee in the Motorcycle Hall of Fame, is the designer, builder, and owner of the BUB #7 streamliner – and no stranger to record-breaking speed. In 1970 another Manning-designed streamliner was the fastest motorcycle in the world. That year Cal Rayborn piloted Manning’s streamliner at the Bonneville Salt Flats to a two-way average of 265.492.

The current world-record setting BUB streamliner, the “#7” sponsored by Drag Specialties & Parts Unlimited, is so named because it is the seventh streamliner Denis Manning has designed and crafted. The streamliner features numerous engineering firsts, including a 3000cc, 425hp engine purpose-designed and built for land speed racing. Says Manning, “The goal is to continue developing and testing the #7 streamliner. We hope to retain the record at the next BUB Motorcycle Speed Trials. Our dedication and hard-work paid off this year. I have no doubt next year will be just as exciting.”

Source:- Gizmag

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Setting out on a dream mission

It has been a dream for Srinidhi L. Raghavendra and Kishore Patwardhan and now they can't wait to fulfil it. Avid bikers, they have been aiming to do a trans-country journey on two wheels and now they are off on a 25,000 km trip through South Asia. Although first comes their passion for riding, they hope to spread awareness on the importance of "quality education for all" and promote Karnataka as an untapped tourist destination.

Mr. Raghavendra, 32, is a journalist and Mr. Patwardhan, 34, is in the real estate business. They call themselves Borderlessbikers.

Their journey will take them through India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand and Sri Lanka. "We will be travelling through regions which have some of the largest illiterate populations in the world, so that's why we have chosen education as our mission motto," they say.

The two themselves are financing the trip but various sponsors have chipped in with materials, principally TVS which has given them two Apache motorcycles. Also Rotary International has offered support in all the countries they will visit.

The rally will be flagged off on December 3 at 10.30 a.m. from the Mahatma Gandhi statue, M.G. Road, by K.C. Ramamurthy, Commissioner of Youth Services and Sports and Director-General of Sports Authority of Karnataka and R. Chandramouli, Vice-President, Marketing, TVS. You can follow their journey online at www.borderlessbikers.com.

Source:- TheHindu

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60 new two-wheeler models in next one yr

Call it novelty value or the increasing appetite of the Indian customer. The two-wheeler industry is churning out new models at fast intervals to maintain the sales momentum with over 60 fresh launches scheduled in the next one year.

With every new launch, the automobile companies are able to leverage the dual benefit of beating the rising input costs, by upgrading their existing product line, and keeping their customer base intact by catering to the demand for diverse new products.

Pradeep Saxena, senior vice-president, TNS Automotive says: "It takes a lot of time and investment for a company to raise a new product. The main components -- engine and frame -- takes years to develop, so does a new production platform and all these consume huge investments. So the companies have taken the easy route of entering into a cyclic-product launch, which are basically an extension of showcasing their existing brands frequently."

Following the same trend, last Friday, Hero Honda brought out two of its current 100 cc models -- CD Deluxe and CD Dawn -- as new launches, by refining its engines and modifying looks.

Toeing the same line, TVS Motors added an electric-start option to its current entry level 100 cc brand, StaR City, and showcased it as a new launch.

"The consumers are very price conscious. They want newer products without any extra price tag. By adding a few cosmetic features, companies are able to offer a new product at the same price. A new launch has turned out to be the most cost-effective method of generating heat in the market and attracting potential customers, prompting companies to regularly branch out launches as new offerings," said a senior official of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers. Source:- Business-Standard

Automobiles are no longer seen only as a mode of transport. Customers perceive them as an extension of their personality and are demanding variety at regular intervals. To meet their tastes and demands, auto companies are betting at these frequent launches.

S Shridhar, vice-president, Bajaj Auto says: "People want change and we are offering it without adding any cost to it. For us, marketing expenditure is almost equal to the cost of developing a new product. We spend huge amounts on marketing products to customers. Re-launching of the same brand as different variants at regular intervals help us leverage these costs as well as satisfy customers� aspirations."

New features like fuel injection systems, real time mileage indicators, aerodynamic styling, and a dual disk brakes system will help companies keep their flags flying for the next one year at least.

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Hero Honda launches two "new" bikes

Hero Honda Motors Ltd. (HHML) on Friday announced the launch of its new CD Deluxe and CD Dawn in a bid to consolidate its position in the entry-level segment of motorcycles.

The CD Dawn comes with a completely new engine and improved performance, large multi-reflector light, new fuel tank and a host of other features.

The engine is based on Honda's `Econo' series engine.

While the CD Deluxe is priced at Rs. 34,900 (ex-showroom Delhi), the CD Dawn is priced at Rs. 31,900 (ex-showroom Delhi). HHL has had the CD brand for the last 21 years.

Addressing the media here, Pawan Munjal, Managing Director, HHML, said, "Our strategy is to strengthen our leadership position in the two-wheeler market as competition is following closely. To maintain our leadership and again increase the gap, we are energising our portfolio.''

HHML has lost the market share in the entry-level bikes from 42 per cent to 39 per cent.

However, in the premium segment, it has maintained its market share at 10 per cent and in the deluxe segment it has gone up from 48 per cent to 51 per cent.

In October, HHML despatched 3.60 lakh units and retailed 5.30 lakh units. "We sell between 60,000 and 70,000 units of the CD range a month — close to one million units annually.

The CD series accounts for about 20 per cent of our total bike sales and we are looking to grow the CD series by 20-25 per cent in the coming year,'' Mr. Munjal said.

With the latest launch, the company has introduced six new variants in the current financial year and it will launch two more variants before the year-end, according to Mr. Munjal. "The whole industry is growing and the 100 cc motorbike segment will continue to grow and remains an important segment for us.''

Source :- TheHindu

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Bikers` Harley Davidson dream may be for real

The decks could soon be cleared for the import of Harley Davidson motorbikes into the country. While the high-end bikes will not enjoy any cuts on import duty, the commerce ministry has now mooted capping the number of such bikes to be imported in a year.

It has also softened its stance on emission norms and indicated to the US that Euro norms were likely to be accepted.

However, the export of Indian mangoes continues to face hurdles, with the US now saying that Indian exporters could have to pay as much as half a dollar per mango towards �facility creation charge,� which includes costs on inspection and sanitary checks.

The two issues were discussed at a meeting of the India-US Trade Policy Forum here yesterday.

Officials said the commerce ministry indicated at the meeting that it would begin a dialogue with the surface transport ministry to recognise Euro emission norms for Harley Davidson motorcycles.

There was earlier a view to have separate emission norms for these bikes since current regulations in India do not prescribe any standards for high-end motorcycles.

However, the ministry has made it clear that it will not be able to offer any duty cuts on the import of bikes, which stand at over 60 per cent.

�The US side is also aware that any reduction in import duty is in the domain of the finance ministry,� an official said.

Officials said the US was not opposed to a quota since it had earlier said it was looking to sell around 10,000 motorbikes in 10 years.

Harley-Davidson is known for delivering �quality nostalgia,� and is loved for its �time warped� designs. Founded in 1903, the company reported global revenues of $5.34 billion in 2005, with a net income of $960 million.

Regarding mangoes, officials said a team of American officials would be visiting Indian orchards on December 18. �We are still hopeful that both sides will come to some understanding regarding mango exports,� an official said.

The US has not allowed import of Indian mangoes so far, citing its stringent sanitary and phyto-sanitary norms.

Source:- Business-Standard

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Motorcycle diaries

From the engineer next door to the hotelier down the street, the new biking culture is being spawned by guys-next-door. Nida Mariam finds out who is riding these mean machines on Mumbai streets

Only in that rare instance that a stretch of Marine Drive comes clear does a biker riding a 1000 cc bike dare to open up the throttle and blast across the horizon. His 167 bhp engine takes just six seconds to exceed 200 kmph and while he wants nothing else but to hold it there, he knows that maximum city cannot contain that sort of speed (just as he enters his element and his body begins to feel the rush of the ride, he has reached the end of the road). An odd sort of situation in that quintessential space crunch, it becomes imperative that he brake.

Super bikers in Mumbai, numbering around an estimated thousand, come from all walks of life—from the medical profession to the entertainment industry. While some of them ride alone, others enjoy riding together for confidence and camaraderie. Dealers in the city confirm that the past year has seen the sales of the Suzuki Hayabusa — John Abraham’s bike in Dhoom 1 — go up significantly. But these engineers, businessmen, producers, have no claims to Kabir — the badmash played by Abraham in the movie-and his gang. They are just a bunch of ordinary guys who revel in the sense of freedom that biking gives them. Riyaz Amlani, an hotelier in Mumbai who rides a Suzuki Intruder M 1800 R, said while explaining the thrill, “A bike and an open road is the closest thing that comes to flying.” The culture of biking and brotherhood has caught on, and groups like the Mocha Bikers Association (MBA), founded six months ago on the enthusiasm of Amit Jambotkar, are new and legitimate forums open to all super bikers from around Mumbai.

Kersi is part of that culture and in 2004 when he decided it was time to upgrade, he sold the Honda CBR 400 RR he had bought with his hard-earned savings and invested in some mutual funds. A few months ago he bought his dream bike, the Suzuki GSX-R1000, popularly know as the ‘GIXER’. Bike enthusiasts pay duties up to 120 per cent to import bikes which end up costing them anywhere from seven lakhs to 12 lakhs.

But sport bikes aren’t child’s play. Twenty-eight-year-old Kersi and his friend 24-year-old Afshad are mindful of the fact that the Suzuki Hayabusa — the king of bikes-is mighty dangerous; injury or death could be the slightest slip or fall. Kersi occasionally rides in a group of eight or nine passionate bikers in South Mumbai whose emphatic emphasis on safety and caution is telling of their family and professional backgrounds.

When 27-year-old Baman, an employee at an American multi-national company, moved up from his Yamaha 350 to a Honda CBR 600 and joined the group a year and a half ago, the first thing he recalls being told was, “Go get yourself a helmet, a jacket and some gloves.” “My bike weighs 370 kgs, and heats up quickly. If I were to fall it would be sure to burn my leg,” Amlani explains. "Whenever I decide to speed up, I make sure to drive up and down the road six or seven times and familiarise myself with the road for any bumps on the surface.”

With life at stake, these big boys can’t bother to be bad. “We’re all cautious riders and we wouldn't even bet small amounts on racing; it's too much of an unnecessary risk,” Kersi says.

“Plus our bikes are expensive and it costs a lot to replace the parts. What we enjoy is riding together and later discussing various issues related to our bikes or rides,” he explains in response to various notions about biking ‘gangs’ he’s heard floating around. In distinguishing the group from the road antics of the 100 CC bikers, Baman adds, “We're not trying to cause trouble. We're just in it for the adrenaline rush and the sheer love of the ride.”

But as these bikers negotiate with dawn or with darkness for a linearity of open space, the city invades them from all angles. If street traffic, potholes and stray dogs aren’t enough, the men of Mumbai bring their own nuisance value: young men zigzagging on their little Yamahas; policemen at nakabandis constantly suspect; old men on their morning walks reprimand. In return the bikers vie that they have nowhere else to go.

Source:- DNA India

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Bottom lines bleed as Hero Honda, Bajaj Auto play to the gallery

It's been a windfall for the customer but it has left analysts wincing. The Hero Honda-Bajaj price war for a larger share of the motorcycle market has hit margins and pinched bottom lines for both companies.

Both Hero Honda MD Pawan Kant Munjal and Bajaj Auto MD Rajiv Bajaj now admit the slugfest is a bit like riding the tiger. But no one wants to get off—at least not yet anyway.

Speaking to ET, Mr Munjal admitted the race for market-share was beginning to hurt. “Current competition in two-wheelers is beginning to affect the sector and with huge increases in global commodity prices the situation is only likely to get worse,” he said. “At some stage all of us will have to get wiser. We will have to sit down together and sort out a way to compete in a way that will work for the entire industry.”

Arch rival Rajiv Bajaj too agreed the price bleeding is getting cut throat. “The race between Bajaj Auto and Hero Honda for market-share is destroying margins for both companies and analysts aren't too happy about that,” he said. “But we are betting our entire company on the entry level market shifting to a different product platform in two years.”

So firm is the focus away from 100 cc-four stroke that Bajaj hasn’t lined up a Plan B fall back action. “We know that in the entry-level segment, it's a commuter positioning and I am betting we will be able to shift that consumer to something sexier,” Mr Bajaj explained.

“But I won't ask the consumer to invest more on commuting. We are in fact going to make it cheaper for them through better fuel efficiency and improved technology.” The Bajaj game-plan, he said, was to move a substantial part of the 4 lakh out of 5.5 lakh motorcycles in a month that are now 100cc/four stroke bikes.

“The 100cc/four stroke bikes are as out dated now as the 150cc/two stroke scooters were in the 90s so there's no reason why they shouldn't share the same fate,” Mr Bajaj added.

Understandably both companies say there has been no price cutting on their part. While Hero Honda marketing veep Anil Dua said that the company only ran promotional schemes during the Dussera-Diwali season and actually increased prices in August, Bajaj says it offered a “better price on the Platina and 0% financing schemes on Platina and Discover” during the festival season.

Bajaj, also says it has already tried to reverse the trend with small hikes on the Platina and Discover in November and upgrade hikes on the Pulsar 150 and 180 cc. “Come January we will take another round of Rs 500 hikes on the Platina and Discover,” said Mr Bajaj.

Source:- TheEconomicTImes

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Riot Reporter Blog up once agin

The Riot Reporter Blog is back in action again. I will be bringing u all HOT HOT HOT info from Indian Automobile world. Stick with Riot Reporter for Latest news.

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Hero Honda launches 2 new variants, the new Glamour and Passion Plus Limited Edition

Hero Honda Motors Ltd on October 25, 2006 has announced the launch of two new variants - the new Glamour and Passion Plus Limited Edition. The new launches were announced on the sidelines of the meeting of the Company's Board of Directors on October 25, 2006 for the financial results for the second quarter 2006-07.

Meanwhile, the Company was the only two-wheeler Company named amongst the top 10 Companies in India by the Asia 200 Leadership Report by the Wall Street Journal Asia, reinforcing the Company's market leadership. Judged on the parameters of reputation, financial soundness, innovation, long-term vision and quality of products and services, the Company has been placed overall 7th in the rankings by the prestigious report.

The Company has recently undertaken a slew of initiatives in various fronts to consolidate its market share, with new product launches, augmenting capacity and innovative consumer campaigns. The Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh last week laid the foundation stone of the Company's new manufacturing plant in Haridwar, Uttaranchal. The plant will be operational by the middle of 2007 with an initial capacity of 500,000 units. This will further augment the existing installed capacity of the Company.

Passion Plus is a very important model for the Company with significant sales contribution, next only to Splendor. The new Passion Plus Limited Edition restates its position as the original style bike, and the initiative has been backed by strong communication through a new TVC. Hero Honda Glamour is being refreshed with stylish 5-spoke alloy wheels. Both these new models will further enhance sales growth for the Company in the deluxe segment where it enjoys clear leadership position.

During the quarter, the Company launched CBZ X-treme, which was supported by innovative and high-visibility print and TV campaigns, along with on-ground activation. The pre-launch teasers on television built up the expectation for the new bike, and received a very enthusiastic response from the youth. The Company has witnessed an excellent market response during the festive season for all its models. The Glamour FI, which was launched in June, has exceeded sales expectations. The CBZ X-treme, with its unique combination of design and first time features will help the Company achieve strong growth in the premium segment. This takes the tally of new models launched so far by the Company this fiscal to four. These new models, coupled with the 4 new launches planned during this fiscal will help the Company achieve strong topline growth and aggressively consolidate its market leadership across all segments.

During the quarter, the Company sold 751,967 two-wheelers, including 21,703 scooters.

In Q2, the Company also signed on 2 new brand ambassadors, promising Indian cricketers Irfan Pathan and Suresh Raina to leverage their mass appeal with the Indian youth. These brand ambassadors stand for the brand attributes of the Company - performance, passion, commitment and winning, and the company will actively use their services to promote the brand and the exciting new models yet to be launched in the market. Both Irfan and Raina feature in the Company's ongoing campaign "Heroes for Heroes", as part of which the "Mobike Pe Mobile" initiative has been rolled out for customers.

Source: Equity Bulls

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Extreme caution

By: Shubhabrata Marmar Does the new Hero Honda CBZ X-Treme lighten up our lives?

From the time the tricolour bike was shown at the Auto Expo to the time when it finally breathed its last, the Hero Honda CBZ was an icon. Not only did it polarise opinion, it (re-)introduced us to what a bigger capacity commuter with sporty intent could be like. And now, the CBZ name is back, in X-Treme guise.

The talking point, undoubtedly, is going to be the looks. Hero Honda (and by extension Honda) have finally got alloys on a 150, which could mean the beginning of the end of spoked wheels on their line-ups (hey, one can hope, right?).

The CBZX gets 18-inch Karizma alloys in black as well as identical tyres. But while the blacked out bottom looks contemporary, the styling package is a formal tux, in pink.

The CBZX, unlike its predecessor, looks a bit awkward, especially front-on. It is substantial, mind you and feels it, but you do have to get past the bulging front indicators and the disproportionate pilot lamp. The seat is a cross between a motocrosser�s up to the filler cap type and a sportsbike�s stepped unit, but looks aside, it felt firm and comfortable.

Leading from the rear are the LED tail lamps, which Hero Honda claims are an India first. Not. The Pulsar 180 was on sale first, fair and square. However, it has successfully beaten Bajaj to the split grab rail.

Congratulations to all appropriate parties, I think. And finally, we have non-metallic bright colours on our bikes, hallelujah! The CBZX looks shattering in the flat, almost molten orange. Wonder how good it would have been had it been pretty.

The instrument console is a step forward too. The brushed metal finish looks classy. The large speedo, smaller tacho, fuel gauge and lights are a complete set, it�s clear, easy to read and complete. Among the other details, I love the dinky new brake pedal. It has a little toe guard for my big toe and a smart, all-chrome tab to press down on.

But fortunately, I discovered that my apprehension on the styling front is evened out by the rest of the package. The blacked-out motor (black is the new purple?) looks very much like the Unicorn�s and externally only a couple of the covers have different detailing.

Like the Unicorn, the 149.2cc engine�s bottom and middle bulge like a gravity-afflicted gourmet�s belly. Which, for the CBZX at least, is a great thing.

But once revs rise, I thought the top-end rush was good, but not on par with the CBZX�s brimming over low/mid grunt. And while the Unicorn shares these traits, the CBZX felt significantly more powerful.

While Hero Honda have not tweaked the Achiever-spec motor in basic configuration (bore, stroke, compression are identical), power rises to 14.2 bhp (first 150 to make more than 14 bhp, then), in the process moving the power and torque peaks up the rev range by a bit.

But, while all this was going on, the CBZX has also gained about six kg over the competition. Not that you�d notice it � open the throttle from idle, in as high as third gear, and the CBZX leaps forward like someone poked it in the hind with a fairly pointed stick. This also means easy wheelies, easy overtakes and low-rev, high-economy commuting.

Surprisingly, some of the preview bikes had spongy discs. I�m sure it won�t be the case with the on-sale models, the discs are the usual 240 mm jobs that all our bikes seem to have, so there isn�t any model-specific reason for the sponginess.

The Hero Honda CBZX is quite likeable once you get past the styling. It�s just that the visuals aren�t come-hither, something all of us were expecting thanks to the CBZ badge.

That apart, you have a very competent, torquey motorcycle, built well, with a good brand name on the cover. At Rs 56,500 ex-Delhi, the CBZX is one grand more expensive than the Bajaj Pulsar 150. Can the CBZX directly challenge the market leader? Styling apart, it seems to have the goods.

Source:- BusinessStandard

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2nd coming: Bajaj to ride scooters again

Hamara Bajaj is riding back in time, literally. Come January 2007, Bajaj Auto will step into the domestic scooter market, marking its re-entry into a segment it exited this April.

Bajaj will re-enter with an ungeared model Kristal that's targetted at the college crowd. This will be followed by Blade, a model positioned to attract the new-age male audience.

Bajaj, once the country's largest scooter maker, had discontinued its geared scooter brands this April after ringng dowen curtains on two of the oldest standing brand — Chetak and Super.

It had completely exited the scooter market around June by discontinuing production of its new-age non-geared model Wave.

"The new models have been designed with changing market dynamics and customer preferences in mind. These moels will mark Bajaj's re-entry into a segment where it was once a leader," a company official said.

"The market for non-geared scooters has been on a rise. With these models appealing to both the college-goer and the middle-aged executive, we will be able to target this high-growth market again," the official added.

Kristal and Blade ride on Bajaj's Digital Twin Spark Ignition (DTS-i) technology. The scooter market in India had witnessed an erosion in demand with the tightening of emission norms and a sudden shift in consumer preference towards more macho motorcycles.

This had forced Bajaj Auto to reinvent its product portfolio — which had a large concentration of scooters — and move into predominantly bike manufacturing.


Source:- Times Of India

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Hero group signs up UK's Ultra for electric bikes

Hero Group has struck a deal with British electric vehicle company Ultra Motors to introduce electric vehicles (EV) in the country.

Ultra Motors has signed a technical collaboration-cum-joint marketing deal with Hero Cycles for bringing out electric two-wheelers. Though at a nascent stage, the entry of a large 2-wheeler group like Hero could make the market for e-vehicles a vibrant one.

As a part of the deal, Ultra would provide the EV technology and kit, while Hero Cycles would manufacture the final product which would be launched in January next year.

Hero Cycles, the world’s largest bicycle manufacturer, would be assembling the vehicles in its existing facility at Ludhiana to begin with and is expected to set-up a new facility for the venture thereafter.

The vehicles themselves would be under Hero’s brand with a co branding arrangement wherein they would also sport the tag ‘Ultra Powered’. The USP of EVs revolves around minimal maintenance cost with zero emissions.

According to Vijay Munjal, managing director of Hero Cycles, “We look forward to this constructive partnership with Ultra Motor Company to launch our unique range of Light Electric Vehicles in India. It’s a collaboration of our manufacturing strength with their technology.”

VJ Prakash, managing director of Ultra Motor India, said, “This partnership is only for 2 wheelers and in the future we would be looking to strike similar venture with other partners for three wheelers.”

Giving details of the marketing strategy, Deba Ghoshal, director (marketing) at Ultra Motors said, “Though some of our retail partners could be an existing retailer of cycles, we will be creating a separate retail network for EVs. In the first six months we would be entering north and west India and over the first one year we would be a national player.”

Starting January ‘07 the venture would establish 50-75 exclusive showrooms across 16 cities over a period of one year.

As per the plans the venture will bring out 3 electric vehicles initially with an entry level e-bike which would retail for about Rs 12,000-Rs 15,000. This apart there would be a higher powered e-bike plus and an e-scooter.

The entry level product, which would not require vehicle registration, would be targeted at kids while the ebike plus would be for institutional sales where companies with a delivery fleet would be targeted.

Source:- EconomicTimes

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SAS to take on Bajaj with electric 3-wheele

A home-grown tractor maker from North India SAS Motors is preparing to take on the might of Hamara Bajaj in the three-wheeler market in India, with a little help from across the Great Wall. SAS Motors, which recently took over a state-owned automobile company in China's Shandong province, is planning to drive into India a range of Chinese load-carrying and passenger electric three-wheelers at a price that's less than half of what Bajaj charges today. The vehicles have been prototyped and SAS Motors is in the process of fine-tuning the models before seeking regulatory approvals and hmologation certificates for introducing them. "We will begin seeking approvals for the three-wheelers by year-end and hope to introduce them in by next fiscal," SAS Motors MD Ravindra Kumar told ToI. "The three-wheelers will be available in both cargo and passenger versions. We expect to price it under Rs 40,000 in the Indian market," Kumar said. In comparison, three-wheelers are today priced in the Rs 1.25-1.5 lakh range. The vehicles have been developed by Laiyang SAS Motors, a Chinese company that is now owned by SAS Motors. "These are electric three-wheelers, which will be powered by a rechargeable deep-discharge battery. To bring down costs, we are looking at building a battery manufacturing unit next year," Kumar said. The firm, he said, is in the process of identifying land and has zeroed in on Uttaranchal and Himachal Pradesh for setting up the plant. SAS Motors sells small Chinese tractors under the Angad brand. SAS had first made headlines when it introduced the country's cheapest tractor a product sourced from China at Rs 99,000. It is today the second Indian tractor maker, after M&M, to set up a base in China.

Source:- TimesOfIndia

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Power play: Bike makers go premium for profit

As margins in the entry-level commuter motorcycle segment shrink, bike makers in India are now riding full-throttle into the premium-end of the market in an effort to perk up the bottomline.

Hero Honda on Monday unveiled its latest offensive in the premium motorcycle segment CBZ X-Treme and announced plans to roll out another model soon to expand its footprint in this segment.

"Though the segment for premium bikes would still account for just 10% of the total six million bikes sold a year , their share is growing fast," says Hero Honda MD Pawan Munjal. "We are targetting this growth segment with our new offerings, which will help us achieve leadership position."

X-Treme is among the eight new models that the firm plans to roll-out this fiscal, a majority of which will include offerings in the deluxe and premium segment of the market.

And rival Bajaj Auto is not far behind. The firm, which has carved a niche for itself in the upper-end segment with the Pulsar variants, is in the process of giving this bike a bigger heart.

It plans to roll out a 220-cc fuel-injected Pulsar by January 2007, and company officials point out that another upgrade on the Pulsar platform is expected soon. And industry buzz says other players in the market, like TVS and Honda Motorcycles, are also attacking this segment will renewed vigour.

"This is a reflection of the changing customer preferences in the market," says an industry analyst.

"Customers are fast embracing 125cc and above bikes as mainstream models today, which is reflected in the declining marketshare for 100cc bikes.

It's also beneficial for manufacturers as the margins in the bigger bikes are higher than the entry-level models, where intense competition in the past had forced companies to cut tags and even suffer losses.

This shift in strategy is also an effort on part of the companies to drive up profits," says Anang Jena of Synovate Moto Research.

The 100cc motorcycle market which accounted for nearly 94% of all motorcycles sold in the country in 2001-02 has skid to 72% of the market in 2005-06. And industry insiders believe this segment will, over the next 2-3 years, end up at under 50% of the total bike market.

This, incidentally, is the second churn for the two-wheeler market in India in the past decade. Geared scooters, which once ruled the market, suddenly fell out of favour with the customer with Hero Honda introducing fuel-efficient bikes.

A sudden shift in customer preference for more macho bikes saw scooters being edged out of the market. Today, the entry-level 100c bikes seem to facing a similar fate with buyers now picking high-powered bikes.

It's this shifting customer preference that Hero Honda and other bike makers plan to capture with its renewed focus on the premium end of the market.

Hero Honda is working on a 250cc Fuel-Injected Karizma Upgrade with water-cooled engine and Hero Honda will launch this bike Feb 2007. Yamaha is working on a 150cc bike which will be launched January 2007 . Tvs will also launch its 180cc Bike somewhere around next fiscal. Honda plans to launch its 250cc CBR in INDIA next year. Looks like 2007 has lots of surprise for Indian Motorcycle Enthusiasts.

Keep your eyes on Riot-Reporter for more HOT news from Indian Auto Industry.

Source:- TimesOfIndia

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CBZ Xtreme .. LAUNCHED

Hero Honda has Launched there new "CBZ" variant called CBZ X-treme. The bike features the same 150cc Hero Honda Achiever Engine with 13.2Bhp power output. It has a TVS Centra look-alike front fairing with fairing mouted indicators, Alloy wheels, Black engine(le Pulsar 180), Yamaha Gladiator look-alike rear taipeice and All new speedo. The bike is priced at Rs 53000 and Rs 56000 ex-showroom.

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CBZ Xtreme .. COMING THIS DIWALI

Many of us will remember the Hero Honda CBZ as probably the bike that was a bit ahead of its times. It had the unmistakable mark of Hero Honda writ all over it — reliable, well made and relatively fuel-efficient.

But it was ahead of its times, as its design, build quality and its poorer fuel efficiency, compared to Hero Honda's hot selling economy model the Splendor, must have all been negative factors as far as prospective buyers of that time were concerned.

Now, after the launch and modest success of the Glamour and Achiever, Hero Honda's acceptance amongst the now burgeoning 150cc segment buyers has definitely improved. With increased buyer expectations in the executive segment of the bike market, both in the engine and build quality parameters, Hero Honda would obviously want to attempt capturing a larger share of this pie.

And so, the CBZ it seems is set for a second coming. After having been a loner at the top and then having been edged out of the market by freshers (then) — like the Bajaj Pulsar, the Honda Unicorn and more recently the TVS Apache — the CBZ will again hit the road.

Market rumour has it that Hero Honda has completely revamped, redesigned and re-engineered the old CBZ, so much so that it just could been renamed too as an all-new bike.

But the CBZ brand has good recall amongst prospective bike buyers in the segment and so Hero Honda seems to have decided to retain this name. As a result, what will soon roll out nationally is the new CBZ Xtreme, a more modern looking and performing 150cc plus segment bike, that sports an all new engine and chassis.

After the original was launched first in 1999, the CBZ was put through a marginal and ineffective cosmetic redesign exercise a couple of years ago. But the CBZ Starstill couldn't help it post more volumes on Hero Honda's sales charts. The new CBZ Xtreme be able to do better than that.

However, Hero Honda will still have to work on the bike buyer's mind space to move away from being identified as only a manufacturer of economy bikes. At least, the company will have a strong brand in CBZ working for it.

The old CBZ is off the company's Web site too, it will be replaced soon by the new model. According to our sources CBZ Xtreme will be on sale this Diwal. Wait for it. Because if u dont U`ll Miss it.

Source:- HinduBusinessLine

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Q7 joins Audi’s India stable

German luxury car maker Audi on Friday launched its premium SUV Q7. The Q7 joins Audi’s India stable which includes A6, A8 and A4. The company hopes the new launch will accelerate its growth in the country. The auto maker has not yet decided on setting up an assembly facility in India.

“We expect to triple our sales this year and sell about 300 units in India. Our target is to sell about 30,000 units by ’15,” said Andre Konsbruck, regional manager-overseas, Audi. The company sold about 105 units in India in ’05.

Q7 comes in two engine variants. While 3.0 TDI variant is priced at Rs 61 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), 4.2 FSI petrol variant costs over Rs 77 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). The company expects to sell about 50 units of the Q7 this year. The German automaker is also ramping up its dealership chain. From three showrooms in Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore, it’s planning to extend the network to eight dealerships in the next two years.

Source:- EconomicTimes

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JWT bags creative duties for revamped Hero Honda CBZ

New Delhi, September 18
Bike major
Hero Honda is in the midst of re-launching one of its old but popular brands, CBZ. The creative duties for the same have gone to JWT, Delhi. For the advertising for this brand, Hero Honda executives had called for a pitch among the company’s roster agencies – Percept H, JWT and FCB Ulka. The agencies had made their presentations last week.

For the record, Percept H was handling the advertising for CBZ so far.

According to certain reliable sources, it was decided to re-launch the CBZ because the current model suffers from a few setbacks, which Hero Honda plans to rectify in the new one. Further, a source says that as of now, the company does not wish to give any new name to this improved model, as the brand CBZ still commands a huge equity in the market.

Earlier this year, Hero Honda announced plans to launch eight models in the current fiscal. June 2006 saw the launch of Hero Honda Glamour FI.

Currently, Hero Honda has 10 models in the market. A majority of its brands are handled by JWT. These include Super Splendor, Glamour, Achiever, CD Dawn, CD Deluxe, Karizma and – the latest – CBZ. FCB Ulka looks after Pleasure.

Source:- http://www.agencyfaqs.com/news/stories/2006/09/18/15988.html

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Bajaj is working on a 150 cc-ungeared scooter

Two-wheeler major Bajaj Auto Ltd, which discontinued production of its only ungeared scooter Wave, will re-enter the segment with a set of ungeared scooters ranging from 75-125 cc in the first quarter of next fiscal.

Bajaj Auto managing director Rajiv Bajaj confirmed to FE the company's move to launch ungeared scooters. Analysts say Bajaj is also working on a 150 cc-ungeared scooter.

Over the last decade Bajaj has shifted gear from a primarily geared scooters producer to a largely motorcycle manufacturer. As a result, it had lesser focus on this segment since the consumer preference was also moving towards motorcycles.

However, in recent times, ungeared scooters have made a comeback, forcing Bajaj to rethink its strategy.

According to Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) data, during April-August 2006-07, the scooter (75-125cc) segment, dominated by ungeared variants, grew 22.80% to 3,14,459.

The segment is led by Japan's Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI), which registered a growth of 27.47% by selling 1,55,398 units during the period. HMSI has Activa (102 cc) as its flagship brand in this segment.

During the period, Hero Honda Motors sold 34,083 units of its new scooter model, Pleasure (102 cc). Another major player TVS Motor sold 1,03,025 units of scooterette, Scooty (75cc) recording a growth of 15.87%.

Bajaj Auto saw the sales of its lone offering, 110 cc Wave, decline 71% from 21,781 units in April-August, 2004-05.

Source:- www.financialexpress.com

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Big Auto links to chase H dream

Tata, Bajaj, M&M, Ashok Leyland will work on hydrogen fuel vehicles

It seems it’s not just politics that makes strange bedfellows. The quest for cheaper, environment-friendly fuel, too, does.

Four Indian automobile giants — Tata Motors, Bajaj Auto, Mahindra & Mahindra and Ashok Leyland — have joined hands under the aegis of Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM).

Their agenda? To find out how hydrogen can be used as an alternative fuel.

As a first step, the companies will experiment with a blend of hydrogen and CNG, called hithane.

Says K K Gandhi, executive director (technical), SIAM: “These four companies and the Indian Oil Corporation will conduct a pilot study on optimisation of hithane by blending 10-20% of hydrogen and CNG.”

The use of hydrogen as an alternative fuel will help reduce dependence on foreign oil. Besides, it will also reduce NOX (nitrous oxide) emissions and help achieve better fuel efficiency.

In a hydrogen engine, electricity generated from solar power is used to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. Oxygen is released into the atmosphere, while hydrogen is liquefied and stored at a very low temperature (-253 °C). During internal combustion, the hydrogen combines with oxygen. The resulting energy powers the vehicle, while the hydrogen is returned to the environment as water.

However, several issues have to be addressed before viable hydrogen engines can be developed indigenously.

Explains Arun Jaura, senior V-P (R&D and product development), M&M: “The use of hydrogen in vehicles poses several challenges such as its availability, distribution, on-board storage and safety. The SIAM project is the first step towards looking for a viable use of hydrogen in automobiles in the Indian context.”

M&M has already made a beginning with hydrogen — by showcasing a concept vehicle called HY-Alpha Champion in this year’s Auto Expo. HY-Alpha is a sub-one tonne category three-wheeler, which runs on compressed hydrogen gas so that there is zero carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide emission and a much cleaner tailpipe emission. Besides, it provides up to 25% better fuel efficiency compared with traditional fuels.

Bajaj Auto already possesses an entire fleet of CNG vehicles - three-wheeler passenger carriers as well as goods carriers. Pradeep Shrivastava, V-P (Engineering), says the company is interested in any alternative that offers fuels with lower emissions of NOX (nitrous oxide). “Whatever is needed to modify engines for trial purposes under this project will be done by Bajaj Auto,” he says.

Though all this is new in India, there has been attempts to develop hydrogen fuel cells and hydrogen engines in the United States and some parts of Europe.

Yet, even in their home countries, such technologies are still being confined largely to institutional transport fleets.

However, with German luxury car maker BMW having just declared its intention to roll in a vehicle which will run on liquid hydrogen, things sure look bright for the green brigade.

Source:- www.dnaindia.com

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Pulsar 180 V3 next week

Its official now

"Bajaj Auto is planning to launch an upgraded version of Pulsar 180cc next week. The bike is expected to be priced at around Rs 60000."

"Bajaj is commanding leadership in the premium 150cc segment of the market with continued success of Pulsar twins which is expected to strengthen further after the new launch."

"The company has also cut the price of its entry level 100cc model Platina by Rs 2000 in order to increase its market share from current 29-30% in the entry level segment."

"With continued growth of motorcycles, Bajaj has consistently outperformed the industry."

"The stock trades at 17.6x its FY08P earnings which offeres further upside from its core business as well as value un-locking from its insurance subsidiaries. We maintain our buy recommendation."

Source:- www.moneycontrol.com

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Suzuki RM-Z450

Suzuki Australia is preparing to unleash the ultimate four-stroke weapon - the latest incarnation of the all-conquering RM-Z450.

Featuring a number of notable updates, the supremely balanced RM-Z450 offers strong, controllable power and extremely lightweight handling for breathtaking acceleration and total rider confidence.

Remarkably easy to ride, the Suzuki RM-Z450 is loaded with advanced technology including the Suzuki Advanced Sump System, the Suzuki Active Vent System, lightweight and durable titanium valves, hollow billet camshafts and much more.

The updated 450cc, 4-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valve engine features a lightweight design with the emphasis on broad power delivery.

Re-shaped intake ports for optimal efficiency offer increased engine performance at low-to-mid rpm.

A durable forged-aluminium piston with oil-retaining grooves reduces friction and wear, while the aluminium cylinder bore and oil control rings are electro-plated for increased durability and heat transfer.

Equipped with an NGK iridium spark plug for better combustion, the RM-Z450's combustion chamber has been re-designed to provide increased engine output.

The Suzuki Active Vent System reduces crank chamber pressure and enhances piston ring seal performance, while the Suzuki Advanced Sump System permits low crankshaft placement for reduced engine height and low centre of gravity.

The RM-Z450's new scavenging pump provides increased lubrication and improved durability, combined with reduced mechanical losses at the crankshaft.

For easy maintenance, the RM-Z450's oil strainer is now easily overhauled without separating the crankcases.

Featuring a Keihin FCR40 carburetor with hot start system and throttle-position sensor, the RM-Z450 incorporates an automatic decompression system for easy kick starting.

Updated carburetor settings and a lightweight exhaust system with titanium head pipe, large-capacity stainless-steel secondary pipe and aluminium muffler also enhance the power of the new RM-Z450.

Retaining the four-speed transmission for weight reduction and compact engine size.

Re-designed radiator shrouds offer the RM-Z450 improved cooling efficiency and an aggressive new look, while the sidecovers are now vented for maximum airflow.

Designed for optimum strength, rigidity and weight the updated aluminium-alloy, twin-spar frame features thicker lower tubes and thinner tank rails for unmatched cornering performance.

Featuring a re-shaped pivot section and shorter main section, the new aluminium swingarm with tapered beam incorporates a cast-aluminium cross beam to improve straight-line performance.

Suspension settings have also been updated to match the all-new frame including Showa cartridge-style front forks with 47mm inner tube, offering 22-way compression damping, 20-way rebound damping and 310mm of wheel travel.

The Showa rear shock absorber with its large 50mm piston and 18mm inner rod provide increased oil flow and stable damping performance, while the RM-Z450 rear suspension linkage allows smooth movement for improved rear wheel traction.

Front and rear brake discs now feature a round-hole design for reduced weight, with the compact 240mm rear disc brake sporting a lightweight caliper body.

Specially-designed Bridgestone tyres with a large contact patch offer improved traction and acceleration while aluminium wheels, spokes and spoke nipples are designed for the best balance of weight, rigidity and overall wheel strength.

Renthal tapered aluminium handlebars with Renthal-labelled handlebar pad are included as standard.

An all-new seat with new textured side panels offers increased knee grip, plus lightweight titanium serrated footpegs are included for maximum strength and improved grip in all riding conditions.

Expected to arrive in Australia in September, the RM-Z450 will be available in Suzuki's Champion Yellow sporting updated aggressive graphics. The suggested retail price is to be announced.

SUZUKI RM-Z450K7 - Specifications

• Engine: 449cc, four-stroke, single-cylinder, liquid cooled, DOHC, 4-valve
• Bore Stroke: 95.5 x 62.8mm
• Compression Ratio: 11.9:1
• Fuel System: Keihin FCR40MX
• Lubrication: Semi-dry sump
• Ignition: Digital CDI
• Transmission: 4-speed
• Final Drive: #520 chain
• Overall Length: 2,185 mm
• Overall Width: 830 mm
• Overall Height: 1,260 mm
• Seat Height: 955 mm
• Ground Clearance: 350 mm
• Wheelbase: 1,480 mm
• Dry Weight: 100 kg
• Suspension Front: Telescopic, cartridge-type, 22 compression & 20 rebound settings, 310mm of wheel travel
• Suspension Rear: Link-type, spring preload fully-adjustable, 16 compression & 19 rebound settings, 310mm of wheel travel
• Brakes Front: Single hydraulic disc - Rear: Single hydraulic disc
• Tyres Front: 90/100-21 51M - Rear: 120/80-19 57M
• Fuel Capacity: 7.0 litre
• Colour: Yellow
• Price: TBA
• Available: September 2006

Source:- MCNews

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Virgin Mobile rep scooter

A limited edition Yamaha Mobile replica paintscheme is now available on the Aerox 50 scooter, and it doesn't cost any extra.

The price also includes free Third Party Insurance, a one year manufacturer unlimited mileage warranty, 12-months RAC breakdown cover, and a fitted Datatag anti-theft security marking system. Three named family members can also benefit from the TPO insurance, with Fire and Theft upgrades available.

In addition to the new Virgin Mobile livery, you can also pick Race Replica, Yellow 50th Anniversary Laguna Seca, Blue, Silver or Black paintschemes. The Yamaha Aerox costs £2199 on the road. Contact: 01932-358121.

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Haydon back for Suzuki

James Haydon will return to racing for the penultimate round of the British Superbike Championship at Silverstone on September 17.
Haydon has missed the previous four rounds due to serious injuries to his left side from a crash at the Snetterton round in June.
"I tested at Silverstone at the start of the month and it was a relief to be back on a Superbike again after such a long break," said Haydon. "I'm under no illusions. I will be bedding myself back into racing gently and hope I can challenge for the top 10 on my comeback ride. It's like the season is starting all over again for me."
Haydon rejoins Rizla Suzuki team-mate Shane Byrne, who is aiming to hold fourth place in the championship, and improve with race wins at the last two rounds.

Source:- MCN

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Govt plans to offer tax breaks, fiscal sops to spur R&D

It’s going to be a joy ride for the auto manufacturing sector in India, with the government mulling several incentives for the industry. To prepare a comprehensive manufacturing competitiveness plan and provide R&D incentives to the sector, the government has set up two committees — one on fiscal incentives and the second on duty structures. R Mashelkar will head the panel on fiscal incentives.

The panel will consider providing 100% grants for fundamental research, 75% for pre-competitive research and 50% grants for product development. It will also consider zero tax on technology transfer for products, features and alternate fuels, among others.

The committee will also look at the feasibility of increasing the weighted tax deduction for expenditure under R&D from 150% to 200%. It is also looking at extending the period of applicability of the tax set-off from 2007 to 2016. In addition, the committee may recommend duty concessions for auto products made in India. The proposal, put forth by the ministry of heavy industries, involves extending excise duty benefits to vehicles and components designed and developed by Indian companies with their own IPR, and even those which cannot be patented but can be registered under the design and copyright laws.

The panel will also consider a proposal to allow design registration in two other countries, other than India. If the committee accepts the recommendations of the ministry of heavy industries, the IPR for a product designed and developed in India will be held by the company registered in India, even if it is the subsidiary of a foreign company.

The Anwar ul Hoda Committee is working on a three-tier tariff structure along with rationalisation of taxes on inter-state and inter-city movement of vehicles and goods. The committee is also considering setting up a technology upgradation fund and virtual SEZs for the auto sector.

This apart, the Hoda committee will also consider the establishment of auto parks, which may be set up on a public-private partnership model.

Source:- EconomicTimes

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On the road to a hydrogen-fuelled future

THE latest developments in enviro-friendly fuel-cell technology could find their way into real-world applications within the next decade. DaimlerChrysler, one of the leaders in the research race, has more than 100 fuel-cell vehicles operating around the world, including three Mercedes-Benz Citaro buses in Perth.

A fleet of 30 of the fuel-cell buses — utilising technology that is already largely outdated — has covered more than 500,000km and carried more than 10 million passengers in countries from Europe to China since 2003.

Also circulating in a variety of urban environments is a collection of A-Class and B-Class based fuel-cell models.

Fuel-cell technology has been buzz development for many key manufacturers, with Honda, Nissan and General Motors all having models operating in day-to-day situations.

Honda's FCX is the first of the cars to go to private owners with very limited numbers utilising the "hydrogen highway" filling station infrastructure around Los Angeles.

However, it is the Mercedes-Benz F600 HYGenius that is providing the excitement and advances engineers hope will accelerate the flow to a commercial fuel cell future.

"We want to improve the robustness and service life of the entire system. And the best way to see if we're succeeding is to take the vehicle on test drives over long distances," says Andreas Docter, who was responsible for the construction of the fuel-cell system used in the HYGenius and also heads the fuel-cell systems engineering department at DaimlerChrysler Research.

Technology improvements and refinements give the HYGenius a fuel efficiency equivalent of 2.9 litres of diesel per 100kilometres. Packaging is one of the key areas demonstrated on the HYGenius with the vehicle's entire drive unit tucked away in the vehicle's sandwich floor.

er engineers say one of the most significant innovations on the HYGenius running model is a new fuel tank that can store hydrogen at 700bar, double the pressure of the previous model.

The pressure increase allows up to 4kg of hydrogen to be carried, enough for a 400km journey. Also causing excitement is a new membrane technology for the fuel cells and and a new humidification system consisting of hollow fibres.

Both innovations allow for precise heat and water management, which means water in liquid form no longer collects in the stack.

Water freezing in the stack during winter has previously been a serious stumbling block with severe difficulty in starting the engine.

The new technology allows the HYGenius to start easily at temperatures as low as minus 25 Celsius.

The test-bed HYGenius is also running a new smaller and more powerful electric-drive unit on the rear axle, a lithium ion battery that produces twice the output of the previous nickel metal hydride units, new bipolar plates that replaces graphite with .15mm-thick foil helping to reduce the size of the stack by almost 40 per cent, and a newly developed electric turbocharger, smaller and more efficient to supply oxygen to the cells.

Mercedes-Benz has a strong record of technology transfer from research vehicles to production models.

Since 1981, the company has displayed 11 research models with technologies such as Distronic cruise control, gas-discharge lamps (xenon), active body control, window airbags, corning lights and voice-activated systems making the leap to mainstream production.

Source :- CarGuide

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2006 Malaysian MotoGP - Race Results

Source :- SuperWheels

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Bajaj cuts Platina price by Rs 2000

Kicking off cut-throat competition before the festive season, number two bike maker Bajaj Auto Ltd on Monday slashed the price of its popular 100cc model "Platina" by as much as Rs 2,000 as it paces to catch on market leader Hero Honda.

"Effective today, we have reduced the price of the top- end Platina to Rs 35,000 from Rs 37,000," Bajaj Auto Vice-President Marketing and Sales S Sridhar told media here from Mumbai.

He said the price reduction was part of the festive season offer by Bajaj. The company has, however, not fixed any time-frame for the offer.

"It would depend on how it will be accepted by the customers," he said.

Sridhar also said as a part of the offer, the base model of Platina, which will not see any price cut, will come with added features like alloy wheels at the existing price of Rs 34,000.

The company does not plan to tinker with the prices of its other models like Pulsar and Discover.

Bajaj Auto has been giving a tough competition to market leader Hero Honda with increased sales of motorcycles.

During August, the company had sold 1,58,636 units as against 1,33,685 units in the same month last year thereby registering a growth of 18.66 per cent.

Hero Honda, on the other hand, registered a decline in sales during August by 15.91 per cent at 2,00,208 units as compared to 2,38,104 units in the same month last year.

The gap between the two motorcycle biggies stood at just 41,572 units in motorcycle sales during August.


Source:- EconomicTimes

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Rossi wins MotoGP class of Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix

The telling move: Valentino Rossi overtakes compatriot Loris Capirossi at the last corner to win the Malaysian Grand Prix yesterday.
Photo: AP

Photo: AP

MOTO GP world champion Valentino Rossi stayed in the hunt for another coveted championship yesterday with a battling victory in the Malaysian Grand Prix, raising the stakes for next weekend's contest at Phillip Island.

The Italian Yamaha rider, who started from the pole in dry conditions in the 21-lap race, fought off an intense challenge from his countryman Loris Capirossi on a Ducati at the wide and twisting 5.5-kilometre Sepang circuit.

Title contender Spain's Daniel Pedrosa on a Honda finished third, while championship leader Nicky Hayden of the US (Honda) was fourth. Australia's Casey Stoner twisted his back during the race and faded to finish eighth.

With the victory, Rossi claimed valuable points to narrow the gap with Hayden in his bid to claim a sixth world title.

The injured Pedrosa, who started fifth, snatched the lead from Rossi on the first lap but Rossi successfully regained the top spot. Then Capirossi, last year's winner here, became the new dangerman for Rossi.

On lap 17, Capirossi overtook Rossi in a tight corner and maintained his lead despite a stiff challenge from the Yamaha rider. It was a cat-and-mouse game between the two riders but Rossi managed to outsmart Capirossi in the final laps to win the race.

Rossi described the race as an "incredible battle", saying the win brought with it 25 valuable points for his championship title.

"This time I win. The battle was incredible. I think we overtook each other at least 10 times or more," he said. "I think it is one of my best races in my career."

Capirossi, meanwhile, described the race as one of the most exciting of the season. "We have four more races to go and I hope it will be like that," he said, adding that the "championship title remains open".

Hayden leads the championship with 214 points, followed by teammate Pedrosa with 192, while Rossi has 188 points.

Challenging Hayden for fourth yesterday, Stoner looked set to charge forward before twisting his back mid-race. He was hoping to snare vital points at his home track at this weekend's Australian Grand Prix but his campaign is now under a cloud. "I'm not feeling the best, to tell you the truth — feeling a bit gritty," Stoner said.

"I went into a corner, deep on the brakes, and the bike bottomed-out a bit and then wobbled and it seemed to jink my back. I was really struggling to go into corners under brakes. I had to use my upper body to change direction and it just wore me out."

Source:- TheAge

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Kawasaki Ninja 500R

Efficient performance for the everyday rider

The Kawasaki Ninja® 500R offers stable handling and friendly power delivery for new riders, coupled with Ninja styling and willing performance for the more experienced motorcyclist. Providing excellent fuel economy and an affordable purchase price, the 500R is also a great choice for those who are looking to ease the crunch of soaring gas prices and add some fun to their daily commute.

Expert and beginning riders will appreciate the Ninja 500R’s liquid-cooled, inline twin-cylinder four-stroke engine. With dual overhead cams actuating four valves per cylinder, the snappy motor is user-friendly and inspirational. Exploring the top end of this engine’s rev range is entertaining for even the most seasoned riders.

The high-performance engine isn't the only selling point for the Ninja 500R. On twisty back roads, the bike’s lightweight, compact design makes for a great-handling machine. This is complemented by Kawasaki’s UNI-TRAK® rear suspension system, with a progressive linkage similar to the larger-displacement Ninja models.

The Ninja 500R also has the same sporty styling, which contribute to both form and function—the aerodynamic half-fairing provides wind protection for the rider, and is stylishly complemented by a lower fairing.

2007 Kawasaki Ninja 500R Specifications

• Engine: Four-stroke, DOHC, parallel twin
• Displacement: 498cc
• Starting: Electric
• Bore x stroke: 74.0 x 58.0mm
• Compression ratio: 10.8:1
• Cooling: Liquid
• Carburetion: Keihin CVK34 x 2
• Ignition: TCBI with digital advance
• Transmission: Six-speed
• Final drive: Chain
• Frame: High-tensile steel, perimeter design
• Rake / trail: 27 degrees / 3.6 in.
• Front suspension / wheel travel: 37mm hydraulic telescopic fork / 5.1 in.
• Rear suspension / wheel travel: UNI-TRAK® system with single shock / 3.9 in.
• Front tire: 11/70x17 tubeless
• Rear tire: 130/70x17 tubeless
• Front brake / rear brake: Hydraulic disc / Disc
• Overall length: 82.5 in.
• Overall width: 27.6 in.
• Overall height: 45.7 in.
• Ground clearance: 4.7 in.
• Seat height: 30.5 in.
• Dry weight: 388 lbs.
• Fuel capacity: 4.8 gal.
• Wheelbase: 56.5 in.
• Color: Metallic Titanium or Solar Yellow
• MSRP: $5,049

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Features

Twin-cylinder 498cc Engine

• Compact parallel-twin design
• Superior engineering produces sport bike power with broad usable torque
• Good mass centralization for superior handling

Liquid Cooling

• Maintains consistent engine temperatures for long engine life and sustained power during hard use
• Allows closer engine tolerances for more horsepower
• Includes temperature gauge

Auxiliary Cooling Fan

• Maintains optimum temperature for best performance, fuel economy and reliability

Four Valves per Cylinder

• Better breathing for more power at high rpm
• Compact combustion chamber for increased compression ratio without detonation on today’s gasolines
• Boosts low-end torque
• Provides maximum valve area for optimum flow

34mm CVK Semi-flat Slide Carburetors

• Precise fuel metering provides uniform power delivery at all engine speeds
• Quick throttle response

Digital Ignition

• Microprocessor-controlled timing never needs adjustment
• Ultra-responsive to engine needs

Six-speed Transmission

• Provides excellent acceleration and relaxed highway cruising

Positive Neutral Finder

• Just lift the shift pedal from first at a stop to find neutral easily, every time
• A Kawasaki exclusive

Standard Half Fairing

• Offers rider wind protection for more comfort
• Incorporates large, easy-to-read instruments with twin resettable trip meters
• Stylish lower fairing completes the Ninja® image

Double-cradle Steel Box-section Frame

• High-tensile steel perimeter frame
• Lightweight, with superior rigidity for more precise handling and better control
• Centerstand included for convenience

37mm Front Fork

• Large-diameter fork tubes with thin walls for light weight and exceptional rigidity

Front Disc Brake with Dual-piston Caliper

• Disc is drilled for better cooling and reduced unsprung weight
• Dual-piston caliper increases braking effectiveness

Rear Disc Brake

• Powerful and controllable
• Single-piston caliper

Bottom-link UNI-TRAK® Rear Suspension

• Lowers the center of gravity for better handling
• Progressive rate provides a smoother, more controlled ride
• Lightweight aluminum components provide quick suspension response

17-inch Wheels

• Wide, modern 17-inch rims fit low-profile, high-performance tires

Source:- PowerSports network

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How safe is your bike?

Streamliner designer Mike Ackitiff and rider Rocky Robinson opened a new era in motorcycle land speed racing, knocking down a 16-year-old mark and setting a new world record of 342.797 mph at the AMA/FIM International Motorcycle Speed Trials Sunday on the famed Utah Bonneville Salt Flats. The mark bests the old record, set by Dave Campos in a dual-Harley-Davidson-engined Easyriders Streamliner, by nearly 20 mph.

Riding a dual-Suzuki-Hayabusa-engined streamliner conceived and built by Ackitiff and dubbed "Ack Attack," Robinson took off for his first run on the 11-mile course on the salt, spun the wheels a bit, and then cooly notched a speed through the measured 1-mile traps of 344.673 mph.

World records governed by the Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme require that a second run be completed in the opposite direction within two hours, with the average of both speeds standing as the record. The crew turned the motorcycle around in 55 minutes, aimed it down the course, and when the wind stopped, did a second run of 340.922 mph.

Source:- TopSpeed

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New Suzuki GSR600S

Suzuki has launched a new version of the popular GSR600 with a new headlight fairing cowl and a stylish radiator cover. The new GSR600S is available in matt black only, and comes at the same price as the standard GSR600 ($9700).

The engine is based on the GSX-R600S, but it has an output of only 98 hp.

Source:- TopSpeed

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Become $350000 (Rs 16,192,483) for a Batman Forever Batmobile

Being a rich lawyer allows you to buy all stuff you want. For example a $500000 for a "Celebrity Lamborghini Gallardo, but also a $350000 (Rs 16,192,483) Batman Forever Batmobile. And if you thought this is all, well then you are wrong, he also bought: a $250,000 1938 Cadillac Town Car used by Pope Pius XII and a $290,000 1941 Packard limousine used by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

John O’Quinn paid $690,000 at a Kruse auction in Las Vegas last year for a 1975 Ford Escort GL once owned by Pope John Paul II.

Source:- TopSpeed

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Speeding for a strange reason...

When you are being caught speeding and you are run out of excuses try this: "I was taking advantage of the ability to drive fast without hitting a goat". Is not a joke, this is what a guy from Canada told the police when he was caught traveling 100 mph in a 60 mph zone in eastern Ontario Sunday.

"A motorist from Switzerland, used to driving around hills and mountains, takes advantage of the ability to go faster without risking hitting a goat," read the traffic officer’s notes of the incident.

For the adventure he took he had to pay a speed ticket of $330.

Source:- Top Speed

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German biofuel tech for Indian cars

India and Germany are set to cooperate in engine technology for alternative fuels, given the rising fuel prices and pressure on fossil fuels. German companies have developed engines which can run on bio-fuel. Now, with a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) and Verband der Automobileindustrie (VDA) , technology transfer is set to become a reality.

India may also benefit by getting technology for more fuel-efficient engines, especially in case of Diesel. Speaking at an Indo-German symposium organized by the ministry of heavy industries on Saturday, VDA president Bernd Gottschalk said that India has the potential to produce 100m tonnes of bio-diesel. It is essential for the two countries to cooperate in the field of both biofuel compatible engines and use of biofuel, he added. The two countries should cooperate in the field of clean diesel, better propulsion technologies and harmonies technical regulations.

According to German Parliamentary state secretary Ulrich Kasparick, it is possible to convert 35% of all transport to biofuel. Germany will also help India to transfer technology that will substantially bring down the levels of sulphur in D. Germany has already started with a 6% biofuel mix to reduce dependency on fossil fuels.

Union heavy industries minister Santosh Mohan Dev said “India and Germany need to double bilateral trade from the current e5bn to e10bn by ’10 and for this, cooperation in the field of automobiles is welcome” .

India will also be exploring the possibilities of using hydrogen-powered fuels and other fuels as an alternative to fossil fuels given India’s rising oil import bill, he added.

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