Motoring news from India and abroad

Hyundai i20 Era and i20 Sportz variants launched

2010-04-07T17:21:00.003+05:30

Following the success of the i20, Hyundai today launched its latest model – the all new i20, a premium compact car with two new variants - the Era and the Sportz.

In addition to the existing models, these variants come with several new technology rich features which enhance its styling and also improve the fuel consumption. The Era has been introduced with both the petrol and diesel engine as the price leading variant while the Sportz will bridge the price and feature gap between the Magna and Asta.

The new i20 is the first in its segment to have six-speed manual transmission gears in the diesel variant. The additional sixth gear will facilitate smooth and fuel efficient driving, making highway driving seem like a cruise. The sixth gear will also enable low rpm operation of the engine, making the i20 diesel more fuel-efficient and leading to a lower NVH (Noise, Vibration & Harshness) and lesser wear and tear of the engine.

PRICE (petrol model, ex-showroom Delhi)
i20 Era: Rs 4.5 lakh
i20 Sportz: Rs 5.3 lakh

Mercedes E350 coupe launched : price, specs, performance

2010-04-07T17:07:00.003+05:30

Mercedes Benz today launched the two-door coupe, the E350 in India. To be sold at a price of Rs 56.38 lakh (ex-showroom Mumbai), the E350 coupe comes with the same 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine that powers the E350 sedan. Two doors less, a slopping roofline and gorgeous 18-inch alloy wheels, the E350 coupe surely looks the part. Though a four seater, we strictly feel that the rear two seats are best for small sized adults.Interestingly, this E-Class Coupé is the most aerodynamic series production car in the world with a drag coefficient of 0.24 only. Brilliant!

Skoda launches Super 1.8 TSI with manual transmission

2010-04-02T08:43:00.003+05:30

The Skoda Superb has always reflected terrific value for money. And it just got better. The petrol variant, with the 1.8-litre TSI motor will now come with a 6-speed manual transmission. For some, especially enthusiasts, this will translate into peppier driving feel. Also, with the manual tranny, the Superb now runs 13.14 km to a litre as per ARAI's figures.
The Superb 1.8 TSI MT is available in an aesthetic array of colors – Black Magic, Rosso Brunello, Cappuccino Beige, Diamond Silver & Candy White
Price - Ex-showroom, Delhi: Rs 18.28lakh
Price - Ex-showroom, Maharashtra: Rs 17.81lakh

First Toyota Prius sold in India

2010-04-02T08:40:00.002+05:30

DSK Toyota Motors, dealers of Toyota vehicles in Pune, rolled out India's first hybrid car “Prius” on Wednesday. The car was sold to industrialist and Kirloskar Group Chief Atul Kirloskar making him the proud owner of this swanky environmental friendly car- Toyota ‘Prius’.
The Prius runs on both petrol and electricity and combines the power of an engine and a motor in the first mass produced hybrid car in the world. “Prius” comes with three driving modes- Power Mode, Eco Mode and Electric Vehicle (EV) Mode along with array of dynamic features that combine to give improved driving experience with superior environmental performances.
The model Prius-Z4, which Kirloskar has bought, comes with a price tag of cool Rs. 34.75 Lakhs. Its intelligent hybrid system allows it to realize the acceleration performance of a 2.4 L class car on its 1.8 L engine. Moreover, it gives exceptional fuel efficiency, evolving hybrid performances and extending hybrid capabilities.

Harley Davidson appoints five dealers in India

2010-04-01T06:16:00.003+05:30

The American giant has finally revealed information on five dealers across India. These are:
1.Tusker Harley-Davidson in Bengaluru, led by Srinivas Reddy
2.Himalayan Harley-Davidson in Chandigarh, led by Siddharth Garg
3.Banjara Harley-Davidson in Hyderabad, led by K Jairam
4.Seven Islands Harley-Davidson in Mumbai, led by Arjun Bafna
5.Capital Harley-Davidson in New Delhi, led by Atul Aggarwal

The Harley-Davidson India dealerships are being designed to the company's global standards and will reflect the essence of the brand, offering customers the opportunity to experience what riders across the world have experienced for over a century. Bookings begin on the 20th of April. For more information, log on to http://www.harley-davidson.in/

VW launches the Passat 1.8 TSI and Jetta 2.0 TDI

2010-03-31T17:23:00.005+05:30

The Passat now gets cheaper with the 1.8 TSI petrol mill

Volkswagen today officially confirmed the launch of two new variants, one each of the Jetta and the Passat. Here is a brief on the two cars

The smaller Jetta will now come with a new common rail 2.0-litre engine
Engine type: 4-Cylinder Common Rail Diesel Engine
Max. Power output: 81KW (110PS) @ 4200rpm
Max. Torque: 250 Nm @1500-2500 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed manual gearbox

Price: Rs 15.92 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

The bigger Passat on the other hand with come with a new 1.8-litre TSI petrol engine - the same one doing duty on the Skoda Laura as well as the Skoda Superb

Engine type 4-Cylinder TSI Petrol engine

Max. Power output 118 kW (160 PS) @ 4500- 6500 rpm

Max. Torque 250 Nm @ 1500- 4500 rpm

Transmission 6- Speed manual gearbox

Price: Rs 19.2 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)

Hero Honda Hunk performance, 0-60km/h, top speed

2010-03-31T10:21:00.001+05:30

Top speed : 107.16km/h
ACCELERATION
0-20km/h : 1.35 sec
0-40km/h : 3.05 sec
0-60km/h : 5.99 sec
0-400m : 20.35sec @101.4km/h
BRAKING PERFORMANCE
60-0km/h : 22.62m/2.76sec
FUEL EFFICIENCY
Overall : 51.0kmpl
In-town : 48.0kmpl
Highway : 60.0kmpl
Price(Top version, OTR, pune): Rs 63,738

Hero Honda HUNK vs Rivals

2010-03-31T10:13:00.001+05:30

The Hero Honda Hunk vs Bajaj Pulsar 150 vs Honda Unicorn vs TVS Apache RTR

The 150cc Hunk faces stiff competition from other 150cc bikes.
This is what BIKE India magazine has to say about the Hunk

It’s a Hero Honda and under the skin we know there’s a tuned version of the Unicorn engine. But with its brilliant looks, the Hunk scores above its other stable mate, the X-treme, though it isn’t quite as refined as the Unicorn. Excellent, aggressive styling and sharp features make it one of the most aesthetically appealing bikes in the country today. The pseudo air-scoops around the sculpted tank and the sharply styled bikini fairing give it a masculine look. On board, the huge tank makes it look and feel more substantial and bigger than some other bikes in the class, all of which works in favour of quenching the male ego. The Hunk also manages to be one nice handler around the bends. The knee fits in snugly into the well contoured recesses and that makes a lot of difference. The handlebar-seat-footpeg positioning is such that you don’t feel nervous when shifting that butt out and leaning off the seat, which again makes it an easy ride while hard-cornering. Even with the bike leaned over nicely and the rider leaning off it, the main-stand stays out of the proceedings. There’s no bottoming out of the rear suspension either thanks to the gas charged shock absorbers. The smooth power delivery of the bike aided with the strong mid-range torque further compliments the brilliant cornering abilities of the bike by bailing you out of wrong shifts on tightening corners. The engine cranks out 14.40 PS@8500 rpm and produces a peak torque of 12.80 Nm@6500rpm. Gearing is relatively short, which means good acceleration, meaty pulling power and great rideability in the city. The top end, however suffers because of that fact. The bike registers a top-speed of 107.16km/h, making the Hunk the slowest bike of the lot. The bike reaches 80-85km/h quite fast, but after that, the engine tends to loose steam. The gears show some resistance before slotting in and there is that unpleasant, notchy feel about the gearshift which is absent in the Honda. Also, the Hunk weighs 3kg more than the CBZ Extreme – at 146kg, the Hunk is a whole 10kg heavier than the RTR! With Honda Unicorn taking the position of the power commuter and the TVS Apache RTR taking perch as the top performer, the Hunk’s positioning seems to be a little less spot-on. The bike however, should appeal to fans of Hero Honda’s reliability and are looking for a bike that feels big. The Hunk is priced on par with the Pulsar and the Apache, though it still doesn’t feature goodies like a digital speedo, rear-sets, LED tail lamps etc. It may seem a little overpriced, but as we stated earlier, the Hero Honda logo on the tank more than makes up for the initial costs in the long term.

For the complete comparison, see BIKE website

Top speed, 0-100km/h of Bajaj Kawasaki Ninja 250R

2010-03-21T23:02:00.001+05:30

We all know this little 250cc bike is a rocket. However, we also know the fuel quality in India is below par as compared to international levels.

Here is what the Kawasaki Ninja 250R does in performance stakes in India, where it is sold by Bajaj

0-60km/h : 2.98seconds

0-100km/h : 7.9seconds

Top speed (5th gear) : 152km/h (genuine)

Kawasaki Ninja 250R road test review

2010-03-21T22:58:00.001+05:30

Bajaj Kawasaki Ninja 250R road test done by BIKE India magazine.

First thing first - a sticker price of Rs 2.69 (ex-showroom) or approximately USD5800 for a 250cc motorcycle might seem very expensive in India. But when the motorcycle in question is a legend in itself with dozens of accomplishments to its credit including being the world’s best selling 250cc bike, you ought to rethink the value it offers. Add to it a high revving 33PS fuel injection liquid-cooled engine that will allow even an amateur rider to fly past the 150km/h mark with ease and a good rider to kiss the 170km/h mark on the speedometer, and you suddenly feel the so called ‘steep’ sticker price is well justified.

Read the complete road test review of the Bajaj Kawasaki Ninja 250R HERE

Mahindra Rodeo: Test review, specs, price

2009-12-27T13:01:00.001+05:30

Mahindra Rodeo 125

Mahindra two wheelers is betting heavily on the Rodeo - essentially a slight cosmetic upgrade of the Flyte 125 scooter that started its life under the Kinetic banner. The mudguard for instance is changed and so is the speedometer console. We love the smooth revving 125cc motor that is quite punchy, though not as strong as the Suzuki Access 125. The backlight of the speedometer can be changed - adds to the bling factor. Telescopic forks aid in stability over bad roads. Overall, at Rs 41,000 (ex-showroom), the Rodeo is a good deal in our idea.

QUICK SPECS:
Engine capacity: 124.6cc
Engine power: 8 Bhp @ 7000rpm
Engine torque: 9Nm @ 5500rpm
Kerb weight: 106 kilos
Fuel tank: 4.5 litres
Price: Rs 41,000 (ex-showroom)
Our Rating: 8/10

Yamaha YZF-R125 in India: Test review, specs, price

2009-12-26T12:21:00.001+05:30

Yamaha YZF-R125

No. Yamaha has no plans to launch the YZF-R125 but as there are strong (though false) rumors on the internet, we thought about having this bike on our blog. Basically based on the bigger R6 and R1 superbikes on the styling front, Yamaha's main aim is to provide a big bike feel, latest technology features and razor sharp handling to the masses, or the youngsters of Europe. For India, the R125 obviously doesnt make sense - we already have the 150cc R15 here, dont we?

QUICK SPECS:
Engine capacity: 124.66cc
Engine power: 15Bhp @ 9000rpm
Engine torque: 12.24Nm @ 8000rpm
Kerb Weight: 138 kilos
Fuel tank capacity: 13.8 litres
Price (in UK): 2999 pounds / Rs 2.2 lakh
Our Rating: 9/10 (the price is too high!)

TVS Jive: Test review, specs, price

2009-12-25T21:53:00.001+05:30

TVS Jive

TVS is one company thats on a roll. With the new 110cc Jive motorcycle, they have redefined commuting in India. Well almost. What is the one thing we all hate about commuting daily? Traffic jams and the constant never ending gear shifts, right? The Jive makes riding through congestion a breeze. To simply, there is no clutch and hence you cant simply shift with your left foot. And even do to neutral from 4th directly. And even start off in any gear! TVS aint charging any extra premium for all this - Rs 41,000 (ex-showroom) is all you need to spent for the Electric start version. One of the best bikes in India today.

QUICK SPECS:
Engine capacity: 109.7cc
Engine power: 8.4Bhp @ 7500rpm
Engine torque: 8.3Nm @ 5500rpm
Dry (not kerb) Weight: 105 kilos
Fuel tank capacity: 15 litres
Price: Rs 41,000 (ex-showroom)
Our rating: 10/10

Hero Honda ZMR: Test review, specs, price

2009-12-25T14:25:00.001+05:30

Hero Honda ZMR

Is this just a modified Karizma? Not really. The engine gets fuel injection, a very minor hike in power and oil cooling. The body gets a full fairing, new tail etc and the instrumentation console is all digitial. The bike is much smoother to ride, quicker and more fuel efficient too. So, where does it lack? At an Ex-showroom price of Rs 97,000, there are other cheaper options in the market. But remember, this is a Hero Honda, and also India's best touring machine. Order one in white please! It might be the quickest, or the fastest locally produced bike, but we do have a soft corner for this bulky beast…

QUICK SPECS:
Engine capacity:223cc
Engine power:17.6bHP @ 7000rpm
Engine torque: 18.35Nm @ 6000rpm
Kerb weight: 159kilos
Tank capacity: 15.3litres
Price: Rs 97,000 (ex-showroom)
Our Rating: 8.5/10

All pictures: www.zigwheels.com

Yamaha Fazer 150: Test review, specs, price

2009-12-25T14:13:00.001+05:30

Yamaha Fazer 150

After the success of the Yamaha FZ-16 and FZ-S, comes the faired version of the same 150cc bike, the Fazer. True to its bigger 1000cc cousin, the Fazer 150 too looks, well, big. It is comfortable, a change in handle bar makes riding it for long distance easy. The horn is louder too, but the relatively smaller 150cc motor is a big limitation for serious long distance riding, until unless you want to stick to 80-85km/h on the highway. Another negative aspect is the non-metallic tank that won’t let magnetic tank bag fit! Further at Rs 72,000 (ex-showroom), the Fazer is quite expensive for a small bike. Buy it for the looks though!

QUICK SPECS:

Engine capacity: 153cc

Engine power: 14PS @ 7500rpm

Engine torque: 14Nm @ 6000rpm

Kerb weight: 141kilos

Tank capacity: 12 itres

Price: Rs 72,000 (ex-showroom)

Our rating: 7.5/10

All pictures: www.bsmotoring.com

Bajaj Pulsar 135LS : Test review, specs, price

2009-12-25T13:57:00.001+05:30

Bajaj Pulsar 135LS

Bajaj's smallest Pulsar variant, the new 135LS, or Light Sports seems good value for money. First ride impressions seem very positive. The bike is mainly aimed for today's congested city traffic and its ability to veer in and out of traffic seems very good. The 135cc engine makes use of 4-valves and DTS-i technology and is very punchy. With a low weight of just 122kilos, the bike can give bigger 150cc bikes a run for their money. The LS looks sporty too and comes with goodies like tubeless tyres, semi digital speedometer etc. At Rs 51,000 ex-showroom, we think this is one of the better buys in this segment today.

QUICK SPECS:
Engine capacity: 135cc
Engine power: 13.5PS @ 9000rpm
Engine torque: 11.4Nm @ 7500rpm
Kerb Weight: 122 kilos

Tank capacity: 8 litres
Price: Rs 51,000 (ex-showroom)
Our rating: 9/10

All pics: www.bikeindia.in

Royal Enfield to launch Bullet Classic 500 on 4th November

2009-10-28T16:20:00.000+05:30

Royal Enfield has often been criticized for launching newer and modern products outside India first. The same happened with the Classic 500. However, within a few days, 4th of November to be precise, the Chennai based manufacturer will roll out Classic in India as well.
The Classic sports a 500cc fuel injected engine that produces 29PS of power - this helps the bike attain a top speed of around 145km/h on the speedometer. But the Royal Enfield Classic 500 is not about performance - its all about the old world charm, the nostalgic feel, the Bullet thump..

Expect to pay around Rs 1.5lakh for this one!

Honda launches Aviator 110cc

2009-10-28T16:16:00.000+05:30

Wasn't Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) plagued with issues with its labor strike at the manufacturing facility? In the midst of all these, showing its commitment towards the Indian market, Honda has launched a new version of the Aviator scooter, which now gets the same 110cc that powers the new Activa. The Aviator 110 is around 15% more fuel efficient than its predecessor and goes on sale with a sticker price of Rs 42,000 (standard model) and Rs 47,000 (deluxe model, with front disc brake), ex-showroom Delhi.

Pictures from : www.vicky.in

Updated Maruti SX4 launched with automatic gearbox

2009-10-28T08:26:00.000+05:30

Maruti Suzuki yesterday launched an updated refreshed variant of its mid-size sedan, the SX4. The launch also included a new automatic gearbox variant that will only be available on the top end ZXI version.

Apart from this, the SX4 also gets the following changes.
1. The engine gets a power boost to 104.7PS, up from 103.4PS on the older car. The torque however remains the same.
2. Its gets a new sporty honeycomb grille
3. New sexy 10 spoke 16-inch alloy wheels
4. New dual tone interiors
5. USB connectivity for the music system

The new SX4 range starts at Rs 6.68 lakh for the base version, going upto Rs 8.36 lakh for the top ZXI automatic version with ABS, EBD and airbags. The SX4 hasn't been doing very well for Maruti and this move could change the whole story here. There isnt any other good automatic car around this kind of money - the Honda City for example sells for almost Rs 2 lakh extra for a similarly equipped top-end model.

Kawasaki Ninja 250R launched in India : official prices including OTR

2009-10-10T23:44:00.001+05:30

Bajaj has finally (and finally) launched the much (much much) awaited Ninja 250R in the Indian market. The bike is the UK model with FI which means Indians get to play around with 33bhp - this should give the bike a 0-100km/h timing of around 8seconds with a top speed of 155-160km/h (true / genuine)

The Kawasaki Ninja 250R goes on sale in India at an ex-showroom price of around Rs 2,69,000 lakh or around US$5600. The on-road price or OTR price for various cities is as follows

1. Bangalore - Rs 3,07,878

2. Pune - Rs 2,96,150

3. Hyderabad - Rs 2,99,941

4. New Mumbai - Rs 2,92,560

5. Mumbai - Over Rs 3,00,000

6 Chennai - Rs 3,05,000

7. New Delhi - Rs 2,80,175

More details on Limited Edition White and Blue FZ-S, FZ16 and Fazer

2009-09-16T18:13:00.001+05:30

These are high resolution wallpaper material pictures of the new Limited Edition White and Blue Yamaha FZ16, FZ-S and Yamaha Fazer. Click on pictures to expand and download.

Yamaha launched the limited edition of popular Fazer & FZ series bikes intended to make the customers feel exclusive and special while creating a pride of ownership in them. Only 3,000 units of White color Limited edition FZ16, FZ-S and Fazer models will be produced and will be priced at Rs. 66,500/-,Rs. 68,500/- and Rs. 73,500/- respectively.

Kawasaki Ninja 250R with Indian number plate

2009-09-15T23:10:00.001+05:30

Lolz.. This is how the Ninja 250R looks with number plate at the front. We are told that this is a compulsory regulation as per the Indian government laws.

It is learnt that Bajaj is all set to launch the Ninja 250R in India next month at an approximate price of around US$ 5000-5500

Kawasaki Bajaj Ninia 250 caught in India : about to be launched

2009-09-15T23:06:00.001+05:30

We have been telling you about the baby Ninja heading to India. Bajaj is getting this bike in a months time and we came across this video on youtube which shows the Ninja 250R in one of the Bajaj Pro-biking showrooms in Pune.

The Ninja 250R gets a new exhaust for India among other small changes.

Custom paint job and modified Yamaha R15

2009-09-15T22:16:00.001+05:30

Here is a video with custom paint job and modified Yamaha R15

Yamaha racing kit for the Yamaha R15

2009-09-15T21:55:00.001+05:30

ZIGWHEELS have reviewed the racing kit for the Yamaha R15. Read their version..

Yamaha ups the power ante for the track and spirited riding with a range of specialized performance enhancers. ZigWheels Varad More got to sample these go-faster goodies at the Chennai race track and here is his first hand report. CLICK HERE

Yamaha R15 first service cost

2009-09-15T21:51:00.001+05:30

Who says it is easy to own this little super-sport machine. According to friends, the first service of the Yamaha R15 at the 1000km mark can set you back by close to Rs 1500! During the first service, you are required to change not only the engine oil but parts like the various filters including the oil filter. This is ok but what surprises me is that most workshops pester the owners to go in for the semi-synthetic oil for the engine, which in itself costs a bomb! Phew...

Yamaha Fazer review

2009-09-15T21:47:00.001+05:30

BIKE India has carried a review of the new Yamaha Fazer.
Here is what they have to say...

The new Yamaha Fazer is available in four colours: Electric Blue, Midnight Black, Lava Red and Flaming Orange and is priced at an ex-showroom price of Rs 72,000. The bike might seem expensive for a 150cc machine but the company is betting heavily on it and is pushing the model aggressively with their new ‘touring spirit’ campaign. We would have loved to judge the bike over a weekend ride but time constraints forced us to cut down our plans to a small evening stint. Nevertheless, the first impression seems positive.

Read the whole review of the Yamaha Fazer on the BIKE INDIA WEBSITE

New white and blue color for the Yamaha Fazer

2009-09-15T21:45:00.001+05:30

Along with the new white and blue color for the Yamaha FZ16, Yamaha will also be launching a new color option, the same white and blue for the Fazer as well. Here are a few pictures taken from www.orkut.com

New color for the Yamaha FZ-S

2009-09-15T21:42:00.001+05:30

Here are a few pictures of the new color option for the Yamaha FZ-S

According to www.orkut.com from where these pictures were taken, this new white and blue color for the Yamaha FZ-S will go on sale in a weeks time. I think this is the best ever color for this bike!

Yamaha FZ16 with rear disc

2009-09-15T21:39:00.001+05:30

The fashion of putting a rear disc has not really caught up with Indians. However, we came across this modification done by a Yamaha FZ16 owner who has put a disc brake at the rear too. Take a look:

IMAGE: ORKUT.COM

Yamaha Fazer 150 ? The new faired Yamaha FZ-16

2009-05-16T16:37:00.001+05:30

There has been news of Yamaha testing a faired version of the FZ-16. Some one was said to have caught the bike on test as well. So, here are the pictures, as seen on bhp-india.blogspot.com !

See the cool stoppie video on the FZ16

Yamaha India is official INDIA YAMAHA PVT LTD now

2009-04-29T00:12:00.001+05:30

Just saw this news on the R15 Blog. The Indian Govt has approved the name change of Yamaha Motors in India to : INDIA YAMAHA PVT LTD. See the BLOG for more

In other news, we also came across a new leg guard for the Yamaha FZ16 at www.xbhp.com.

A member (Chinmay from Pune) on the site has fitted a leg guard on the bike. Here is how it looks

Quite a neat job in our opinion. In the meantime, also cast your vote in the poll (on the right side on this web page). We have already had 257 votes. If you havent made your choice, do it NOW!!!

See the cool stoppie video on the FZ16

Indian Govt approves Yamaha's proposal

2009-04-28T08:30:00.001+05:30

Things have been moving at a fast pace for Yamaha in India. After the recent success of the R15 / FZ16 and FZS, the Indian Government recently approved Yamaha's proposal to transfer its Indian sales business to a new entity -- India Yamaha Motor Pvt Ltd.

Yamaha Motor India Sales Pvt Ltd (YMISPL) had sought approval to transfer its business to India Yamaha Motor Pvt Ltd (IYMPL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Yamaha Motor Co, Japan.

The proposal, which does not involve fresh investments, has been approved, an official statement said.

Yamaha's proposal had been deferred earlier by the FIPB following objections raised by industry ministry saying that allowing import would lead to retail trading.
The board later cleared it after Yamaha said there would be no retail trading.

In its application, YMISPL had sought to transfer its business, including sales of two-wheelers not only manufactured in India but also imported from Yamaha group companies outside, along with other products such as all terrain vehicles, generators, golf carts and unmanned helicopters.

Does this mean Yamaha will foray into ATV in the coming future? Unmanned helicopters too? Bring it on guys!

Also Read

- Yamaha R15 tank video
- Yamaha R15 new colors
- Yamaha R15 stoppies

Yamaha R15 tank video

2009-04-24T11:05:00.001+05:30

Killer from xbhp.com recently put up a video of the R15. In this, he has attached the tank cam onto the tank and has a brief riding stint inside the city.

Also Read
- Yamaha R15 new colors
- Yamaha R15 stoppies

Kawasaki Ninja 250R vs Honda VTR250

2009-04-22T20:01:00.001+05:30

Honda has recently come out with a new VTR250 for the European market. The 250cc segment is already being headed by our Kawasaki Ninja 250R.
So, does the Honda VTR250 has the dope to out run the Ninja 250R?

MCN has carried a comparison test of both the bikes. This is what they have to say:

"Although the new Honda responds better low down, from the mid-range up the DOHJC, parallel twin motor of the Kawasaki revs quickly and smoothly and its power increases more and more and its suspension has enough stroke to enjoy sport riding.”

See their comparion HERE

R15's nightmare : the new TVS Apache RTR 180 Menace is here

2009-04-19T01:44:00.001+05:30

The long awaited TVS Apache RTR 180 Menace is here. According to www.bhp-india.blogspot.com, TVS has leaked the TV commercial for the 180cc RTR Menace and oh boy, does she look hot!
Though there are just a few changes to the body, the white color really looks hot. What however is more important is the engine - 180cc and 17.3PS of power.

The RTR 160 already ran close to the R15 in terms of performance, and well, we think, the new 180 Menace will easily out perform the R15 in acceleration and yes, on the track too.

See this video of the new TVS Apache RTR 180 Menace, and yes, enjoy!!

Stoppie stunts on the Yamaha FZ16

2009-04-17T23:21:00.001+05:30

Here is a cool video of a biker playing with the heavy Yamaha FZ16 and rolling this sexy 180 degree stoppie!

Click HERE to see the new Yamaha FZS
Clikc HERE to see some wheelie and stoppie pics on the Yamaha FZ16

Hero Honda Hunk special edition

2009-04-17T19:03:00.001+05:30

The Hero Honda has now been cosmetically upgraded and christened Special Edition. Apart from some snazzy graphics and new paint scheme there are no mechanical changes. The Hunk now sports a racing bull insignia across the tank accompanied by a Special Edition badge on it's tank extensions.

The Hero Honda Hunk Special Edition will also sport red alloy wheels, dual-tone seat with red colored rider's seat, along with a sports red finish for the front forks and rear shock absorbers. Even the spark plug cap and the cylinder head get to sport the overall red theme.

The Hunk Special Edition seems to have been adequately garnished in the looks department. The bike still retains it's single cylinder, air-cooled 149.2cc engine pushing out 14.4 PS and churning out 12.8 Nm of torque.

SOURCE: WWW.BIKEINDIA.IN

Yamaha launches the FZS

2009-03-13T21:33:00.001+05:30

Wasnt the FZ-16 already a sexy looking bike?
Well, Yamaha went a step ahead and launched the new Yamaha FZS. The FZS is a sexier version with changes to the visor, headlamp, meter, new color graphics and an alloy wheel strip.

Here is the press release
Riding the grand success of its muscular and hottest-looking bike FZ16 while shattering all clichés in biking, India Yamaha Motor Pvt. Ltd. has introduced the Stylish Macho Street Fighter - Yamaha FZ-S. FZ-S highlights the style quotient and has more flesh to flaunt with purely European international design like new colours & graphics, aerodynamic chiseled windshield, stylish & sporty carbon pattern meter consol, and more aggressive looking headlight. The new FZ-S is for stylish and attention seeking Macho man. FZ-S scores high in looks not only in its segment but beyond and is designed to satiate the need for style and fashion by riders. Etched with style and geared to today’s fashion conscious customers, FZ-S is a fusion of machismo and fashion. Speaking about Yamaha’s focus and the new launch, Mr. Y. Tsuji, CEO & Managing Director, India Yamaha Motor Pvt. Ltd. said, "Yamaha has set forward on a journey where each and every product of ours will set a benchmark in the market with its technological superiority, quality & manufacturing excellence and style quotient. The arrival of this new variant FZ-S is a clear illustration of how the market has responded to FZ 16. Our strategic intent is to provide customers with stylish variant to suite his fashion statement and personality.” The FZ-S will be offered in two colours - Yellow Streak and Silver Tech. The bike will be priced at Rs.67000. Both the colours are trendsetters, being cool, magnetic and hip-hop. The colours give the FZ-S the X-factor which enhances the fashion statement of the rider.

click to enlarge : the old and the new

The FZ-S from Yamaha

2009-03-04T10:02:00.001+05:30

The FZ16 has proven to be a fantastic product for Yamaha India. It has surely turned the tables for the company and now, running high on the success of the bike, the company recently launched a new variant of the FZ16 called as the FZ-S.

More details from the press release:
Riding the grand success of its muscular and hottest-looking bike FZ16 while shattering all clichés in biking, India Yamaha Motor Pvt. Ltd. has introduced the Stylish Macho Street Fighter - Yamaha FZ-S. FZ-S highlights the style quotient and has more flesh to flaunt with purely European international design like new colours & graphics, aerodynamic chiseled windshield, stylish & sporty carbon pattern meter consol, and more aggressive looking headlight. The new FZ-S is for stylish and attention seeking Macho man. FZ-S scores high in looks not only in its segment but beyond and is designed to satiate the need for style and fashion by riders. Etched with style and geared to today’s fashion conscious customers, FZ-S is a fusion of machismo and fashion. Standing head and shoulders above the bikes in 150cc segment, FZ 16 has revolutionized the biking scene in India in a short span of its launch. It has bagged the prestigious Bike of the Year Award from UTVi / Autocar, Zigwheels and Business Standard Motoring and Viewers Choice award at UTVi & Autocar India Awards 2009. FZ-S overflows with dynamism and originality. The running performance brims with thrust that overpowers all others with its unprecedented torque. Dubbed as “Lord of the Streets,” FZ-S is designed and engineered with the potential for active and even aggressive enjoyment of around-town street riding and styling that brings pride of ownership and makes any rider look like they own the road. With the Triple Macho concept projecting the Muscular silhouette, muscular body parts and muscular chassis, FZ -S is an object de’art on the street and reflects visual expression of performance.

Another cool video of the Ninja 250R

2009-02-04T16:41:00.001+05:30

Here is another cool video of the 2008 Kawasaki Ninja 250R

Tsukigi racing exhaust for the Ninja 250R

2009-02-03T16:58:00.001+05:30

Selecting a Motorcycle Exhaust-System was never been so difficult, most riders see the Exhaust-System as the easiest way to increase the power of their motorcycle. A survey under riders revealed that most motorcyclists planned to buy an alternative exhaust system for their bike in the next year.

One company Tsukigi Racing has been designing and building aftermarket performance motorcycle exhaust-systems. Tsukigi Racing founded 37-years ago, and now for 10-years active in the Thai motorcycle market has introduced a complete performance exhaust-system for the in Thailand popular Kawasaki Ninja 250R.

The Tsukigi Racing Exhaust-System for the Kawasaki Ninja 250R is probably the easiest aftermarket pipe to install bolting on in a mere 10 minutes. When viewing the end can from the side, people either loved or hated the pipe. The lack of a heat shield can be unpleasant for a pillion-rider especially if not wearing closed shoes.

The Tsukigi Racing Kawasaki Ninja 250R Exhaust-System is loud, aggressive but strangely the sound was not irritating, the exhaust note never felt as extreme.

The mechanics from Tsukigi Racing claimed that the aftermarket system would provide a 2 to 3 horsepower performance gain. We where not able to confirm this, riding the bike let us believe that the power gain was more, especially in the lower rev segment.

Overall we where very impressed by, what could be, the first Thai aftermarket product for the Kawasaki Ninja 250R.

Text source: motorcycle.in.th

Read this - 5 bhp increase for the Ninja 250R

Yamaha R15 : new colors?

2008-11-06T17:20:00.001+05:30

The Yamaha R15 always has looked very good in black and red colors. Here are some pictures of how the bike will look in a combination of both

Also Read:
Yamaha R15 burn-out pictures
Yamaha R15 stoppie pictures
Repsol colored Yamaha R15

Yamaha R15 stunting : burn-out pictures

2008-11-05T10:56:00.001+05:30

The Yamaha R15 has got everything. Including lots of power. Here are some shots of a biker performing burn-out on his R15.

The R15 burn-outs!

The tyre after the burn-out

PICTURES : WWW.XBHP.COM

Also Read
Yamaha R15 superb stoppies!
Yellow Yamaha R15
Yamaha R15 screen modification
Repsol colored Yamaha R15

Video : The 2008 250R at Barcellona

2008-11-03T10:41:00.001+05:30

Here is a video of the 2008 Kawasaki Ninja 250R at the Barcellona track. Enjoy!

Yamaha FZ16 videos

2008-10-24T14:12:00.001+05:30

Here are some videos of the Yamaha FZ16.

The official Yamaha FZ16 commercial ad

Yamaha FZ16 at a Bangalore dealership

Stunting on the Yamaha FZ16 : Burnout

Also Read
-Yamaha FZ16 First impression
-TVS Apache RTR Vs Yamaha FZ16
-Yamaha FZ16 wheelie, stoppie pics
-Yamaha FZ16 wallpapers

Yamaha FZ16 : First impression

2008-10-23T03:07:00.000+05:30

xbhp.com, a leading two-wheeler forum recently had a photo-shoot of the Yamaha FZ16. Here are some pictures taken by the website

Even the handle bars are painted black

The Yamaha FZ16 has sexy looks from rear three quarter

Even at standstill, the FZ means business!

The half exposed chain looks cool

The best console in India? We agree..almost!

The mid-ship exhaust is a la FZ1

Won't the FZ look awesome with the mud-guard chopped off?

It might be a dummy tank, but looks awesome

FZ1 inspired lamp, R1 inspired indicators..Yamaha has left no stone unturned

India's first radial. India's fattest rear. FZ16 is India's best looking bike

Pictures : xbhp.com

Also read:
-TVS Apache RTR Vs Yamaha FZ16
-Yamaha FZ16 wheelie, stoppie pics
-Yamaha FZ16 wallpapers

TVS Apache RTR VS Yamaha FZ 16

2008-10-22T20:08:00.000+05:30

TVS APACHE RTR VS YAMAHA FZ16

Without a doubt, the bike that Yamaha's FZ16 will be competiting against will be the TVS Apache RTR. We try to pit these two bikes against each other to see which has a potential to be the winner

RTR FZ16
ENGINE 159.7CC 153CC
POWER(PS) 15.4 @ 8500 14.0 @ 7500
TORQUE(NM) 13.1 @ 6000 13.6 @ 6000
TOP SPEED 118.7 KM/H 110.9 KM/H
0-60KM/H 5.04 SEC 5.51 SEC
MILEAGE 50 KMPL 43.5 KMPL

The TVS Apache RTR seems to have a powerful engine, but the FZ16 strikes back with more torque. Performance wise, the RTR again has the lead, hitting a true 118.7km/h which is around 125km/h on the speedometer. The Yamaha FZ16 on the other hand manages around 110.9km/h on the test equipment or around 120km/h on the speedometer.

Where the Yamaha FZ16 shines, in our opinion, is in the city. The comfortable riding position, the torquey engine etc.

On the looks front, the FZ16 is the clear winner. The ultra sexy fat 140mm rear tyre, wide forks, awesome tank etc, all make the bike look the best in India, by a far margain.

Stunts wise, we think, both the bikes are equally good. However, the RTR is a track bike, and will make the Yamaha FZ16 eat dust on the track.

Coming to the last, the pricing

On the road cost, Pune
TVS Apache RTR : Rs 67,151
Yamaha FZ16 : Rs 72,500

The FZ16 is expensive by Rs more than five thousand! Thats a lot of money.
But you get the looks, the quality and nimble handing. The looks alone tempt you into going for the FZ16.... We want to hear what you think - participate in the poll (see right side of this blog page). Let us know what you think by commenting on this post too!

Also Read
Yamaha FZ16 wheelie, stoppie pics
Yamaha FZ16: First impression
Yamaha FZ16 wallpapers

Yamaha FZ16 wheelie and stoppie pics

2008-10-22T19:03:00.000+05:30

We found this link from the touring site www.bcmtouring.com
Bike India magazine had carried a road test of the Yamaha FZ16 in the October issue and here is the picture of the cover.

Bunny Punia, of Bike India magazine was on the bike, stunting in Goa. He sure can lift the bike well, as seen on the cover, or is it just that the bike is very much capable of doing this?

We also found more stunting pictures, stoppies, on the Yamaha FZ16 from Bike India magazine's website. Have a look, click on the pictures to enlarge them, and enjoy!

Also read..
Yamaha FZ16: First Impression
TVS Apache RTR Vs Yamaha FZ16
Yamaha FZ16 wallpapers
Yamaha FZ16 power, engine, details
The new Yamaha FZ16

Yamaha FZ16 pictures and wallpapers

2008-10-22T18:49:00.000+05:30

The Yamaha FZ16 looks best in this color. Click on these pictures to open the high-resolution wallpapers for your desktop!

Also Read
TVS Apache RTR Vs Yamaha FZ16
Yamaha FZ16 wheelie, stoppie pics

Yamaha FZ16 details

2008-10-22T18:35:00.000+05:30

Here is an indepth look into what goes into making the Yamaha FZ16 the best naked street-fighter in India

Engine

"Air-cooled, 4-stroke, single-cylinder 153cc engine"

A newly designed 153cc air-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, single-cylinder, 2-valve engine with a max.output of 14 Ps and a max. torque of 14 N.m., characterized by its breathtaking pick up and featuring an electric starter.

Muffler

"Exhaust efficiency, sound and concentration of mass"

To give a sense of volume to the machine, an external diameter of 35mm is adopted in a two-layer type exhaust to minimize the effect of heat on the pipe. The layout features a large-volume primary character on the underside of the crankcase. The muffler is an irregular shaped tapered type mid-ship muffler.

Front Suspension

The inner tubes on the front fork are the first large Ø41mm units adopted on a motorcycle made in India and the stroke is a generous 130mm. With the front assembly dimensions, they provide good shock absorption. The good damping characteristics during acceleration and braking contribute to increasing stability.

Rear Suspension

"Monocross suspension adopted"

A Monocross rear suspension unit provides 120 mm of wheel travel, while optimized oil and damping valve specs help ensure agile running performance and handling. It inhibits bottoming while riding with a tandem passenger as well as providing a very comfortable ride.

Tyre

"India’s first “140/60-17” size radial tyre (rear)"

The rear tyre is India’s first radial tyre with a 60% aspect ratio. Both the front and rear tyres on this model are tubeless type that are less susceptible to sudden flattening should the tyre be punctured.

Disc

"Large-diameter front disc brake adopted"

At the front, a large Ø267mm disc brake is adopted. The two-pot caliper makes full use of the outer perimeter of the disc to provide strong stopping power. The optimized specs of the operational parts provide a high-level of balance, excellent initial braking performance and good operational touch.

Headlight

"Multi-reflector headlight adopted"

The bulb’s illumination and the type of light unit employed gives greater freedom of design. This creates an aggressive-looking front view and the transparent lens gives this unit a highly stylish image that accentuates the character of the model’s ride.

Fuel tank

"12-liter fuel tank with uniquely styled plastic resin cover"

The steel fuel tank with a plastic resin outer cover takes advantage of the freedom of shaping that plastic provides, giving the tank cover a powerful shape with modulations suggestive of the muscular body of an athlete.

LCD

"Full LCD meter"

The meters on the FZ16 are installed in a Full Liquid Crystal Display. The speedometer, tachometer, trip meter, fuel gauge and other indicators are set in optimum position to keep the field of vision clear. Also, the engine starting signal is an example of the spirit of innovation.

Also Read
Yamaha FZ16 wheelie, stoppie pics
Yamaha FZ16 wallpapers

Welcome to the world of Yamaha FZ16

2008-10-22T17:53:00.000+05:30

LORD OF THE STREETS

In this country’s motorcycle history a new chapter begins. A masterpiece is born. While inheriting the quality of the famous brand, the Yamaha FZ16 was also born to revolutionize the era and carry out a mission. Its appearance more than any other, overflows with dynamism and originality. The running performance is brimming with thrust that overpowers all others. This quality solely belongs to YAMAHA’s advanced technologies. The Yamaha FZ16 takes attention away from others on the road as it makes its personality felt. Lord of the Streets -FZ16- You will be drawn to this machine that in the next era will become the king of the streets.

"LORD MAKES NEW RULES"
The rider’s will is spread to the handle, the body and then the engine giving birth to unprecedented torque. This force is truly dynamic. Due to minute calculations and overcoming major challenges, an ultimate body balance has been produced. The agile running performance is extremely exciting. The superior performance brings riding feel, which when you ride provides you an emotional high. Thus this is unique not only for the rider but also a source of great fascination to the onlooker. With the FZ16 you have the sensation of ruling the streets to your heart’s content.

"LORD TAKES OVER"
Each and every part of FZ16 has been designed with a lot of detailed attention and careful thought. This ultimate degree of perfection means even the slightest feature has not been overlooked. Only YAMAHA ensures this kind of craftsmanship. The rider and the machine share a feeling of oneness, and from different angles the impression is different. This is particularly because the finest components have been used in its precise manufacturing. The FZ16 possesses both a rough and brutish expression as well as a certain subtlety. This high quality masterpiece will without doubt become a rage for the next generation.

Kawasaki Ninja 250R for India : changes being made

2008-10-21T10:21:00.000+05:30

We told you about the Kawasaki Ninja 250R for the Indian market here.
The news is very much confirmed. Infact, after Yamaha launched a baby R1, named the YZF-R15 for around USD $2400, Bajaj (the company who wants to get the Ninja 250R to India), is now working on localizing some of the components to reduce the cost of the Ninja 250R to around Rs 1.6 lakh or USd $ 3500.
It will be interested to see if this can happen!

Worth reading:
Yamaha's naked 160cc for India
India gets GP edition 150cc from Honda
TVS, an Indian manufacturer launches FI 160cc bike

Kawasaki Ninja 250R for the Interstate / highway?

2008-10-18T08:46:00.000+05:30

Lot of prospective owners / current owners of the little Kawasaki Ninja 250R have this question - can the bike be good on the interstate or highways?

Well, i came across this forum where a guy wanted to know if it was ok to ride his Ninja 250R on the interstate which had a limit of 65mph / 104km/h.

The little Ninja can surely do around 90mph or 144km/h (true speed) any day. I reckon, this bike can easily keep up with the traffic and stay at 65-70mph easily.

Read the forum for more.

In the meantime, have a look at the 2009 Kawasaki Ninja 250R and the performance figures for the Ninja 250R

2009 Kawasaki Ninja 250R

2008-10-16T12:06:00.000+05:30

Here is the official picture of the 2009 Kawasaki Ninja 250R. Nothing much has changed, but the new color combination looks quite good.

Pricing as per the website remains between USD $3999 - USD $4099.

Colors are now: Metallic Diablo Black, Sunbeam Red, Candy Thunder Blue, Special Edition Lime Green / Metallic Diablo Black

There is a special edition version ( Lime Green / Metallic Diablo Black) Which also looks to get wheel stripes.

Also read
Get 5 more bhp from the 250R
Performance figures for the 250R
Tyre upgrades for the Ninja 250R
Ninja 250R first ride report

2009 Kawasaki Ninja 250R

2008-09-11T17:17:00.000+05:30

Deliveries of the 2009 model of Kawasaki Ninja 250R have begun.
To start with Australia now gets the Lime Green color option.

Fresh Ninja 250Rs also hitting the US showrooms. We dont know yet if they are re badged old ones or new ones.. Watch this space for more

5 bhp increase on the 250R!

2008-08-19T13:12:00.000+05:30

Got this link on the net. Roaring Toyz have this special exhaust for the Ninja 250R and claim to increase the max power by 5bhp!!

Available for 600 USD... Follow this LINK

Repsol colored Yamaha R15? We got it...

2008-08-19T12:18:00.000+05:30

Here is yet another colored Yamaha R15. In a Honda Repsol paint job
The bike does look cool in this color.. But the paint job does cost a bomb we are said

Pics : Ken from xbhp.com

Yamaha R15 : Screen modification

2008-08-11T17:34:00.001+05:30

One of the owners has done a small modification to his original screen. Here is a look!

Yamaha R15 : Screen modification

2008-08-11T17:34:00.000+05:30

One of the owners has done a small modification to his original screen. Here is a look!

We had told you about the new color combination for the Yamaha R15. Here are more pictures taken from another blog on the same:

Yamaha YZF-R125 : Have a look

2008-08-11T17:29:00.000+05:30

When Yamaha got the YZF-R125 abroad, some of thought this would be the bike coming to India. But it was for sure too extreme for us. Read more about the bike HERE

In the meantime, have a look at the heated comments going on HERE

Scoop : New Red and Black color scheme for R15

2008-08-09T14:55:00.001+05:30

Believe it or not, Yamaha is coming out with a new Red and Black color scheme for the R15. Here is a scoop on how the bike is (this is a real pic, not a photoshop)

More details coming up

Scoop : New Red and Black color scheme for R15

2008-08-09T14:55:00.000+05:30

Believe it or not, Yamaha is coming out with a new Red and Black color scheme for the R15. Here is a scoop on how the bike is (this is a real pic, not a photoshop)

More details coming up

Yamaha R15 vs Bajaj Pulsar 220 vs Hero Honda Karizma vs TVS Apache RTR

2008-08-09T10:34:00.000+05:30

As told by us some days back (SEE), the August issue of Bike India magazine has a track test of the Yamaha YZF-R15 vs its rivals - the Bajaj Pulsar 220, Hero Honda Karizma and the TVS Apache RTR FI

Here is a quick summary of what Bike India had to say

Aspi (Editor)
It gives you tons of confidence. You can do what you want around corners. Stiffer front and rear will make it even faster

Raju (ex-racer)
The R15 will do what you want it to. Bottom and mid range power isnt impressive. Center stand is a bother around the racetrack

Amit
Allows the smoothest entry into and exit from corners. Keep the engine on the boil and you can always be sure that you're faster than the rest

Bunny
Small can be fast too! I had my apprehensions but the R15 surprised with its agility and punch. Definitely smokes others where it matters most

Lap timings of each bike coming up - stay tuned!!

ALSO READ THIS
The R15 goes stunting
Yellow colored R15
The FZ15 caught testing

Performance figures for Yamaha R15

2008-07-30T14:07:00.000+05:30

According to Bike India magazine, here are the acceleration and top speed figures for the Yamaha R15

0-20km/h: 1.15s
0-40km/h: 2.90s
0-60km/h: 5.12s
0-80km/h: 8.56s
0-100km/h: 14.17s

Top Speed: 130.2km/h (speedo - 139km/h)
0-400m: 18.95s@113.23km/h

This means that the Yamaha R15 is just a tad slower than the Karizma (0-60 in 4.7s) and the Pulsar 220 (0-60km/h in 4.8s). But the difference doesnt increase by the time the R15 gets too 100km/h.
The Karizma reaches 100km/h in 14.05sec and the Pulsar 220 in 13odd secs. The R15 takes just 14.17s

It might not beat the Pulsar 220 and Karizma, but for a 150cc bike, these figures are mindblowing!

On the Top Speed stakes though, the R15 with the sixth gear beats both Karizma and Pulsar 220 with a better top speed of 130.2km/h (true), with the speedometer showing 139km/h. A run-in bike should be doing 140km/h on the speedo i guesss

The Yamaha R15 goes touring as well!!

2008-07-29T15:09:00.000+05:30

I shared with you some super stunts of the Yamaha R15 Yesterday and now going through this another blog, it seems the Yamaha R15 can tour as well.

Have a look here

The Yamaha YZF-R15 goes stunting!

2008-07-28T15:08:00.000+05:30

Unbelievable stuff by Sahil Anand from from Ranchi.
This guy is just too good. So good, that we have included his pictures in the header of this blog as well. The Yamaha R15 sure can stunt - this guy proves it. Kudos to MRF tyres - even in standing water, this guy is just carrying the R15 along....

CLICK ON IMAGES TO ENLARGE

Also enjoy this stoppied video : He claims to have picked up the bike at 75km/h!

IMAGES : WWW.XBHP.COM

Yamaha R15 yellow color!

2008-07-28T13:11:00.000+05:30

Pacer Automobiles, Yamaha dealership in Bangalore has a special yellow color Yamaha R15 on display. According to the showroom guys, it costs 20k more!

Yamaha R15 in BIKE INDIA August 2008

2008-07-28T10:38:00.000+05:30

The Yamaha R15 was on the cover of the July issue of Bike India and now in the Aug issue, Bike India magazine has tested the bike (on track and on road)

Some of those who have read the magazine are surprised with the performance. Hold on Hold on, i will pick up my copy tonight and shall post the figures right here!

Image: xbhp.com

2008 Kawasaki Ninja 250R performance figures

2008-07-27T16:35:00.000+05:30

Here are a few figures from www.cycleworld.com

Price $3499
Dry weight 352 lb.
Wheelbase 54.9 in.
Seat height 31.0 in.
Fuel mileage 60 mpg (this is US mpg - means 25.5km per litre!)
0-60 mph 7.6 sec.
1/4-mile 15.54 sec. @ 82.70 mph
Horsepower 27.2 hp @ 10,770 rpm (again, diff power figs will be there for Europe model)
Torque 14.3 ft.-lb. @ 9650 rpm
Top speed 96 mph (or 154km/h)

Tyre upgrades for the 2008 Ninja 250R

2008-07-17T18:07:00.000+05:30

The stock 110mm front

replaced with this 120mm

The stock 130mm of the rear...

replaced with this 150mm

While randomly surfing, i came across this article about tyre upsizing for the Kawasaki Ninja 250R. The guy at 2fiddy had posted this

The stock tyre is a 130/70 on 17inch alloy.
One can up size it to 150/70 on the same 17inch alloy

Also, this guy has upsized the front from a 110 to a 120.
Looks cool or not, you decide!!

In the meantime, have a look at the new 150cc bike from Yamaha for India. Yes, India again it is!
Click HERE to see the new 16bhp 150cc bike called the Yamaha YZF-R15

Yamaha R15 : Engine seize and burn pics!!!`

2008-07-07T17:02:00.000+05:30

OMG : We cant believe this.
Yesterday there was news of a Yamaha R15 getting seized up (Click) and today there is this pic on xbhp about a bike catching fire!

We are waiting for updates for what actually happened. Stay tuned for more

UPDATE : It seems the rider of the bike had kept a cleaning cloth somewhere near the engine of the bike. Come on - that is not the place to keep the cloth. Something or the other happened. It seems while filling fuel, it seeped out, flowed next to the fairing and got into the cloth. On the run, the engine heated up and the fuelled cloth caught fire. But I would also want a Yamaha official to testify the same here.

Yamaha FZ15 caught again

2008-07-07T15:13:00.000+05:30

Thanks to Manoj from xbhp, here are few more pictures of the Yamaha FZ15 bike being tested around Delhi.

Note : the rider is not wearing any jackets or boots. Seems that the bike is his daily commute to the Yamaha factory and back!

Yamaha R15 riders meet in Bangalore

2008-07-07T14:14:00.000+05:30

According to xbhp some R15 owners met up in Bangalore on the 6th of July.

Here is a link to the meet up - CLICK

Picture taken from xbhp

Yamaha R15 in BIKE INDIA JULY 2008 issue

2008-06-19T10:19:00.000+05:30

This is the cover of BIKE INDIA magazine, July 2008 issue. It was uploaded on xbhp yesterday. According to the cover, the mag carries a full track report of the bike. Cant wait to get my hands on the magazine!!!

Yamaha YZF-R15 : Chennai's test ride updates

2008-06-12T19:01:00.000+05:30

Yamaha had today invited automotive journalists to come and test ride the new YZF-R15 on the Sriperumbudur racing circuit in Chennai.

Highlights:

1. The bike feels like a 19-20bhp machine.
2. Very good gearing
3. Excellent handling
4. Riders hit 120km/h easily. Later, one of the journalists confirmed that the bike hit around 126km/h in 5th gear, with one more to go!
5. Lot of accidents. One major, one minor, one off-roading!

Will keep you guys updated for more. But in short, it seems, the riders fell in love with the bike

Yamaha R15 : Vs Rivals

2008-06-12T10:02:00.000+05:30

First of all, you can see the official specifications HERE

Now, coming to the rivals.
Rival No 1:

The Hero Honda Karizma has been around for over five years.
Price : it has an advantage over the R15. It is 25,000 cheaper than the Karizma and thats a lot!
Power : 16.9ps @ 7000 - Develops same power, but at lower rpm
Torque : 18.3Nm @ 6000 - The R15 is no match
Power to weight ratio : 112.6 ps per tonne
This is where the Karizma looses out

Rival no 2
The Pulsar 220

Price : it has an advantage, selling for around Rs 84,000 ex-showroom, around 13,000 less than the R15
Power : Advantage P220. Develops 20.06ps @ 8500
Torque : Advantage P220 again. Develops 19.12Nm @ 6500
Power to weight ratio : The P220 has an edge here with a 133.7 ps per tonne ratio

So, where the R15 stand? Wil paying Rs 25,000 extra over a Karizma be worth it? Yamaha says it will 140km/h with a 60kg rider. A Karizma does 125km/h true. Now, we dont know if Yamaha is talking about a 140km/h true or 140km/h speedo indicated.

We all expected a 19-20ps engine, but they have given us a 17ps one.
Only a test ride will confirm if the R15 is worth the dough...Watch out

Yamaha R15 : Official specs

2008-06-12T09:46:00.000+05:30

Yamaha R15 - SPECS

LENGTH : 1995mm
WIDTH : 670mm
HEIGHT : 1070mm
WHEELBASE : 1290
WEIGHT (DRY): 120kg
WEIGHT (WET) : 131kg
ENGINE CAPACITY : 149.8cc
COMPRESSION RATIO : 10.4:1
MAX POWER : 17ps @ 8500rpm
MAX TORQUE : 15nm @ 7500rpm
CLAIMED TOP SPEED : 140km/h (with a 60kg rider)
VALVE : Liquid cooled, 4 valve set up
FUEL TANK : 12L
FUEL ECONOMY : 40kmpl (city)
GEAR BOX : 6-speed
FRAME : Steel Deltaxbox frame
FRONT TYRE : 80/90 R17 Tubeless
REAR TYRE : 100/80 R17 Tubeless
SUSPENSION REAR : Monoshock
PRICE : Rs 97,500 Ex-showroom (all over India)

NOTE: TO DOWNLOAD WALLPAPER FOR THE ABOVE IMAGE, CLICK HERE

Yamaha R15 : Pricing

2008-06-03T10:42:00.001+05:30

The bike will be priced around Rs 97,000 ex-showroom all over India.

One more thing, the disc brake system of the bike is from Nissan!!!

Yamaha R15 : Pricing

2008-06-03T10:42:00.000+05:30

The bike will be priced around Rs 97,000 ex-showroom all over India.

One more thing, the disc brake system of the bike is from Nissan!!!

Yamaha R15 : Performance

2008-05-29T17:54:00.000+05:30

This is as close as it gets to the real thing.
The Yamaha R15 will be around 139kgs, kerb weight.
The engine will put around 19bhp which gives it a power to weight ratio of 136bhp per tonne.

The Karizma: 112bhp/tonne
The P220: 133bhp/tonne

So, the R15 will surely have a better power to weight ratio. Some may feel that it only has a 150cc. So what! Bajaj Pulsar 220 may have a 133bhp/tonne power to weight ratio, but thats on paper. On dyno, a Pulsar usually shows 25-30% less power. Plus, the R15 has a lot of modern gizmos thrown in (engine wise) and also a 6 speed 'box.

All this means this
Top Speed : A true 140km/h
0-60km/h : 3.5secs
0-100km/h : 10/5sec

These figs easily make it the fastest in India. Plus a fab fuel economy of 40kmpl. So still feel the bike is expensive at 1.08lakhs! Come on, when we can have water pumps selling for 1.1 lakh (the RE 500LB), then this awesome looking bike with all the goodies in the world seems sexy value at 1.08lakhs...

Scoop News : Yamaha R15 price

2008-05-29T12:46:00.000+05:30

2008 Yamaha R15

Pricing : Rs 1,08,000 on the road, Pune
Launching : 14th June
Special news : The bike will be showcased and given for test rides to the media on the 11th and 12th of June at the Sriperumbudur racing track at Chennai

In the meantime, enjoy this video of the bike

Yamaha R15 pics : different colors

2008-05-29T09:50:00.000+05:30

Just two weeks left before the Yamaha R15 will be officially launched.

Here are some pictures of the bike in different colors (thanks to zzKaTaLyStzz)

Yamaha R15 : coming our way soon

2008-05-28T14:34:00.000+05:30

Some dealer, across India, have started taking bookings for the bike. The Yamaha R15 is all set to debut on Indian roads on the 14th of June, ie, next month. 300 R15s will be delivered at the Chennai race track on the 14th of June

The expected price of the bike is set to be around Rs 1,00,000 ex-showroom!

Here is a little video for the bike in the meantime

Commercial Advertisement : tv ad for the Yamaha R15

2008-03-15T14:45:00.000+05:30

here is the ad for the Yamaha R15 which will start doing the rounds of the tv soon

2008 Kawasaki Ninja 250R : First Ride Report

2008-02-22T15:58:00.000+05:30

Here is the official first ride report of the 2008 Kawasaki Ninja 250R by www.motorcycledaily.com

I'll bet you can't guess which Kawasaki is the best selling model. Is it the popular middle weight supersport ZX-6R? How about the recently redesigned dual purpose KLR650? If you guessed either of these bikes, you are wrong.

The top seller for Kawasaki has been the Ninja 250R . . . a bike that has been largely unchanged since 1988. That is, until the introduction of the all new 2008 250R....

See First Ride Report for the full read

Bike India Feb issue has a lot of stuff

2008-02-08T14:56:00.001+05:30

Just saw the cover of the Bike India Feb 2008 issue at www.xbhp.com

This is the pic of the cover page picked up from xbhp.com
They say they have a lot of information on the Yamaha R15. Well, I will be getting my copy today. Lets see what the experts have to say about the bike!

Kawasaki Ninja 250R to enter India

2008-02-08T14:56:00.000+05:30

Here is a link to the news 2008 Ninja 250R for India
Kawasaki seems to have tied up with an Indian manufacturer, Bajaj.
Bajaj will import the Ninja250R in CKD form from Thailand to save on custom duties. The bike should go on sale in a few months time.
India is the land of the worlds largest selling motorcycle brand. There are two-wheelers just about everywhere. We are sure the Ninja 250R will sell like hot cakes specially because the fastest bike India currently makes is a 220cc 20bhp one! Phew...

We are sure Indian bikers must be a happy lot now

Yamaha R15 picture

2008-01-16T16:16:00.000+05:30

Another picture of the Yamaha R15

Aftermarket pipes for Ninja 250R

2008-01-16T12:29:00.000+05:30

Kawasaki's Ninja 250R is set to be one of the stand-out bikes for 2008, and if you're still umming-and-ahhing about getting one, these two new pipes could seal the deal.

Log on to Yoshimura and Two Brothers for a look.

The Yoshimura Dual TRC is available in carbon-fibre, stainless steel or titanium finish.

The second pipe is the Two Brothers M2 slip-on also available in a selection of finishes.

Between, in the recently concluded Auto Expo show in India, Bajaj, an Indian Manufacturer, has announced that it will be selling the Ninja 250R (locally assembled) in the next few months. Good news for this power starved country!

Lovely pics of the Yamaha R15

2008-01-14T17:52:00.000+05:30

Thank you to Nisarg and Aryan of www.xbhp.com for these pictures

The Yamaha R15 looks lovely from all angles. Seen here is the rear-three angle of the bike. Note the mean exhaust

The rear disc brake is standard...

They are both lovely!!!

Tired haan?

More info on the Yamaha R15 : Official release

2008-01-14T17:16:00.000+05:30

In the winter of 2008, a new force strikes in the sports bike world, the Yamaha YZF-R15. A unique ’no compromise’ machine for road riders ready to accept the challenge of the racetrack. A machine, like all other Yamaha R series , that comes with racing DNA and the spirit of competition living in every component.

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. announces the debut of the new “YZF-R15,” a new supersport model mounting a newly designed 150cc liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC single-cylinder, 4-valve fuel-injected engine on a Deltabox frame. It will be displayed for the first time at “9th Auto Expo – 2008” (Organizer: Confederation of Indian Industry; Venue: Pragati Maidan) in New Delhi from January 10 (Thursday.) to 17 (Thursday.).

Packed full of state-of-the-art technologies, the new YZF-R15 boasts performance worthy of a supersport model and a body design that evokes the image of the YZF-R series and gives visual expression to the quality of its ride. It is truly an embodiment of Yamaha’s desire to bring customers a model to help them “Enjoy riding”.

In Yamaha’s new medium term (3-year) management plan that begins this year and runs through 2010, rebuilding the Yamaha motorcycle business in India has been designated as one of top priorities.

The new YZF-R15 now being unveiled is an example of the objective of “introducing attractive new products” called for in Yamaha’s high value-added marketing strategy for India business, and plans call for it to be released on the market in the middle of this year.
Market background and product summary

Motorcycle demand in India has grown steadily about 8 million units. This makes it the second largest market in the world. Based on the country’s demographics and progress in development of the road system, it is expected that stable growth will continue from now on. Most of the demand (about 80%) is in the 100cc to 200cc motorcycle category, and a large part of the remainder is in the 125cc and under scooter category.

The motorcycle demand in India is driven mainly by young people in their 20s and there is an increasing trend toward European style tastes as seen in the preference for luxury products and stepping up to higher quality goods, which is reflected in growing demand in the trade-in market. Also, among the users in their 20s there is a group that say their dream bike is a 1000cc supersport model, indicating a growing interest in sport bikes.

The new YZF-R15 makes full use of the MotoGP race experience and YZF-R series supersport bike development technology and know-how acquired by Yamaha Motor over the years to create a 150cc supersport bike that offers users to truly “Enjoy riding” in a full range of situations, from around-town riding to touring on winding roads and even aggressive riding on the circuit.

A development concept was to build “a new 150cc supersport” that is the first model for the Indian market designed in the true supersport image and featuring a high-level balance of enjoyable running performance on winding roads, enjoyable performance and riding comfort with a tandem passenger and agile handling through crowded city traffic. The body has been designed to show at a glance that this is a “R series bike” and to give visual expression to technology feedback from the 10 years of YZF-R series development since the series debut in 1998. In this way, it is a direct expression of Yamaha’s motorcycle development ideal of “Exciting Performance & Stylish Design” in the 150cc class.
Main Features

* A newly developed 150cc liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, single-cylinder fuel-injected engine
* An all-aluminum “DiASil Cylinder” produced by an exclusive Yamaha casting technology
* Eco-friendly performance that clears the next-phase Bharat 4 emissions standard
* The “Deltabox frame” known for excellent rigidity balance
* Impressive “2-eye” multi-reflector headlight design in the YZF-R series image

Two lovely pics of the R15

2008-01-14T16:56:00.000+05:30

Taken at the Auto Expo 2008.

The girls do look good, but in the end, our eyes are on the R15. Bring it on Yamaha

Source : bunnypunia.blogspot.com

Pictures of the R15

2008-01-11T12:11:00.002+05:30

Sorry guys, was busy at the Auto Expo and hence could not update this blog. Here is the bike : on sale soon

Power figs are 21-22bhp. Cost is around 80-85000 bucks. yamaha rocks

The FZ15 for India

2008-01-11T12:11:00.001+05:30

The story doesnt end at the R15 alone.

Yamaha will also be coming out with the mini FZ1000 (Fazer 1000) with a watercooled 150cc engine (the same as on the R15)

Here are the pictues of the bike :

The FZ15 for India

2008-01-11T12:11:00.000+05:30

The story doesnt end at the R15 alone.

Yamaha will also be coming out with the mini FZ1000 (Fazer 1000) with a watercooled 150cc engine (the same as on the R15)

Here are the pictues of the bike :

Scoop pics of the Yamaha R15

2008-01-08T11:46:00.001+05:30

Some one managed to see the bike being tested in Delhi and clicked pictures of this bike.

Scoop pics of the Yamaha R15

2008-01-08T11:46:00.000+05:30

Some one from www.cubiccapacity.com managed to see the bike being tested in Delhi and clicked pictures of this bike.

I am sure Yamaha officials will be very angry over this. I think, they are doing a great job by getting such a wonderful bike to India but some people just want their blog to run and have posted this pic.
Still, we cant make much out of the bike. The exhaust looks good and we can see the split grab rails (as mentioned by me on the previous post)

I just hope that no one else manages to take pics and post them till Yamaha show the bike. Let Yamaha show us the bike guys, they deserve it :)

Yamaha R15 : The bike

2007-12-13T11:44:00.000+05:30

Here are some details on the new Yamaha R15 bike

-The bike has a 150cc engine and hence called the R15
-The engine will be water-cooled, fuel injected, with 4 valves per cylinder
-The engine will make around 20bhp of power
-With a lightweight of just 120-125kg, the bike will do around 140-145km/h and out-accelerate the likes of the Pulsar 220 and the Karizma
-The bike will have a full fairing with old Yamaha Fazer 1000 type headlamps
-The bike will have rear-set pegs, split grab rails and even a rear disc brake
-The bike will be priced at Rs 80000-85000

Yamaha India : Thumps up to you guys. Waiting for you to show the bike at the upcoming Auto Expo

Yamaha is all set to re-write rules

2007-12-03T11:37:00.000+05:30

Yes, the new has been floating around for a long time now.
Come Auto Expo 2008 and Yamaha will change the way we Indians look up at them.

Their 100cc and 125cc offerings have not being good at all, but what all of us do remember are two bikes from them - the RX100 and the RD350. While the tight emission norms killed these two bikes, we waited waited and waited! FINALLY..... they are back with something