The dynamic and progressive F 900 R roadster conveys a sense of freedom while the adventure sports tourer F 900 XR offers a mix of sportiness and touring capabilities. The two new bikes are an amalgamation of sports-style design and dynamics coupled with awe-inspiring performance. 

Arlindo Teixeira, acting President, BMW Group India said, “BMW Motorrad has brought the world’s finest premium motorcycles to India and created a distinct place for itself among motorcycling enthusiasts. With the introduction of the dynamic duo – the all-new BMW F 900 R and the all-new BMW F 900 XR – BMW Motorrad is set to redefine and captivate the popular mid-range segment in India at a truly attractive value proposition. The dynamic roadster BMW F 900 R is a precise and intuitive bike offering purist riding fun at all times. The adventure sports tourer BMW F 900 XR’s unique performance combined with powerful design interprets long-distance riding in a distinctive and future-oriented style of a genuine XR. The sporty riding fun, straightforward handling and a unique range of equipment options on both these bikes will be a value-added package for the ultimate thrill-seekers.”

The 900 R is available in Black Storm Metallic and in Style Sport Hockenheim Silver metallic/Racing Red paintwork. The 900 XR is available in Light White and Style Sport Racing Red paintwork.

The all-new BMW F 900 R and the all-new BMW F 900 XR will be sold and serviced through the BMW Motorrad authorized dealer network, present across important centres in India including Delhi (Lutyens Motorrad), Mumbai (Navnit Motors), Pune (Bavaria Motors), Chennai (KUN Motorrad), Bengaluru (Tusker Motorrad), Ahmedabad (Gallops Autohaus), Kochi (EVM Autokraft), Hyderabad (JSP Motorrad), Indore (Munich Motors), Lucknow (Speed Motors), Chandigarh (Krishna Automobiles), Jaipur (Pratap Motorrad), Raipur (Munich Motors), Kolkata (OSL Prestige), Cuttack (OSL Prestige)  and Ranchi (Titanium Autos). Test rides and deliveries will be initiated in accordance to all government directives post the lockdown period.

The F 900 R roadster packs a powerful punch with its inimitable styling and performance. The LED headlamp, muscular fuel tank, attractive trim elements and characteristic roadster proportions of the front and rear give it a mature presence on the road. The compact underfloor silencer further supports this crisp look.

The F 900 XR’s design reflects pure performance and the promise of long-distance travelling comfort with a riding position that is active yet relaxed. The striking light guides of the newly developed LED headlight emphasise the commanding nature of the bike. The fairing along with precise edges define the bike’s aggressive design while the slim and short tail invokes its athletic nature.

Bothe the bikes are powered by a water-cooled 4-stroke in-line 2-cylinder 895 cc engine with four valves per cylinder, two overhead camshafts and dry-sump lubrication. With an output of 105 hp at 8,500 rpm and a maximum torque of 92 Nm at 6,500 rpm, the engine enhances sporty riding dynamics and pleasure. The high torque engine offers just the right speed range to get the most fun out of the power. The motorcycles sprint from 0–100 km/hr in just 3.6 seconds and achieve a top speed of over 200 km/hr.

In terms of the suspension, the motorcycles are based on a completely newly developed concept and set a technological benchmark in the mid-range segment. The bridge frame integrates the 2-cylinder in-line engine as a load-bearing element and is made of deep-drawn and welded sheet steel parts. Front wheel control is taken care of by an upside-down telescopic fork, while the rear wheel is guided by a double-sided swinging arm with central suspension strut. The bolt-on steel rear frame has also been newly developed in order to create a visually short and slim rear. The short underfloor silencer renders a typical athletic look with a free-standing rear wheel.

Both bikes offer ‘Rain’ and ‘Road’ riding modes as standard. In ‘Rain’ mode, throttle response is gentler and the control characteristics of ABS and traction control allow optimal grip on wet and slippery road surface. In ‘Road’ mode, the engine offers optimum throttle response, while ABS and traction control are set to achieve ideal performance. Both motorcycles feature a high-performance brake system for precise braking.

The two bikes feature a best-in-class large 6.5-inch colour TFT screen with BMW Motorrad connectivity as standard, wherein the variety of information, display quality and user-friendliness are unmatched. Riders can easily connect their smartphone, helmet equipped with BMW Motorrad Communication System with the bike and conveniently make phone calls, listen to music and navigate during their travel. In addition, the BMW Motorrad Connected App offers handy arrow-based navigation suitable for day-to-day use directly via the TFT screen. The multi-controller on the left-hand handlebar panel enables quick, safe and convenient screen operation.

The bikes offer high level of safety to riders with standard features such as anti-lock braking system (ABS), automatic stability control (ASC), anti-hopping clutch and cast aluminium wheels.

The F 900 XR Pro variant offers additional features such as the Cruise Control, Gear Shift Assist Pro and Dynamic ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment) which allows riders to switch between suspension settings while riding and further enhance riding experience and comfort. (MT)

TVS Motor Company, a leading two- and three-wheeler manufacturer, has launched the updated TVS Apache RTR 160 4V at INR 139,000.

The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V is powered by a 159.7cc, oil-cooled, fuel-injected, 4-valve, which produces 17.55 PS at 9,250 rpm and 14.73 Nm of torque at 7,500 rpm.

It comes with a segment-first 37mm Upside Down (USD) suspension and three ride modes — Sport, Urban, and Rain, which the company claims enhance control, stability, and adaptability across diverse riding conditions.

Like with most of the new models from the TVS Motor Co’s stable, the Apache RTR 160 4V now comes with TVS SmartXonnect technology, which provides Bluetooth connectivity, providing turn-by-turn navigation, call & SMS alerts, and voice assist.

In terms of design, the refreshed TVS Apache RTR 160 4V’s can be had in three colour options – Granite Grey, Matte Black, and Pearl White, which are complemented by sporty, race-inspired graphics, golden-finish USD forks, and red alloy wheels. 

Vimal Sumbly, Head of Business – Premium, TVS Motor Company, said, “We are proud to lead the way in engineering and innovation in motorcycles. With that commitment, we are excited to announce the upgrade of the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V with cutting-edge features and advanced technology. Built on a rich racing legacy, the TVS Apache Series proudly serves over 5.5 million enthusiasts, making it one of the fastest-growing premium motorcycle brands globally. We are committed to meeting the evolving needs of our customers by integrating performance, technology, and style. By constantly evolving in our set of offerings, we have set new benchmarks for performance motorcycles in India.”

KAW Veloce Motors Pvt Ltd (KVMPL) has unveiled the Brixton brand of motorcycles (600 cc and 1200 cc) and an e-scooter of the Italian brand Velocifero (VLF) called Tennis in Kolhapur, Maharashtra.

The unveiling of both the machines – the motorcycle with an ICE and the e-scooter with a battery and motor – at the Highland Club on the outskirts of the city took place amid much fanfare.

The Brixton motorcycle and VLF e-scooter – with an angular bodywork overall that is synonymous with Italian design culture and featuring a 2.1kW hub motor, and a range of 130 km – will be offered through the MotoHaus retail channel, the first outlet of which is set to be commissioned in a few days from now in Kolhapur.

Both the two-wheelers – the e-scooter is priced at INR 1,30,000 ex-showroom – are being put together (from a CKD kit) at a plant that is about 12 km from the launch venue as part of the Phase I strategy. To be offered through MotoHaus outlets in cities Mumbai, Thane, Pune, Jaipur, Vapi, Goa, Bangalore, Chennai, Cochin, Nashik, Nagpur, Surat, Ahmedabad and Vadodara besides Kolhapur, the two vehicle brands are expected to be joined by a third Italian brand and an in-house electric two-wheeler brand at a later date.

Once the Phase I strategy plays out and the Bixton and VLF offerings find a footing in the Indian market, the company will embark on the Phase II strategy that will include a design and development centre at Kolhapur. The strategy will also include a manufacturing plant that can do 25,000 units and enable the engineering of a robust supply chain in terms of localisation.

It is at the Phase II level that investments from Brixton Motorcycles (Austria) and VLF are expected to come into the venture, which is initially supported by the parent company of KAW Veloce.

TVS Motor Company-owned British premium motorcycle brand Norton Motorcycles, has announced changes to its leadership structure.

The company has announced Dr. Robert Hentschel, currently CEO, will step back from his role effective immediately. He will transition to a non-executive director role within the company.

On the other hand, Nevijo Mance will join Norton Motorcycles as Executive Director, overseeing all upstream business operations, as part of the new leadership structure.

He will be responsible for product design, development and engineering, manufacturing, procurement, quality control, and supply chain management.

In addition, Richard Arnold, who was appointed Executive Director in June 2024, will be responsible for downstream business operations, including marketing, brand management, sales, distribution, customer relationship management, aftersales service, product management, and public relations.

He will also be responsible for enhancing customer experience, expanding Norton’s market reach, and strengthening the brand’s presence across global markets.

Dr Rober had been leading the company since 2021, and has been instrumental in strengthening Norton’s foundations, guiding the company through crucial stages of its growth plan and establishing a strong operational base. He had played a key role in synergistic relationship with parent TVS Motor Company, which has been pivotal in advancing Norton’s progress and setting the stage for future success.

TVS Motor Company (TVSM), a global manufacturer of two- and three-wheelers, has announced the date and venue for the fourth edition of its TVS MotoSoul festival. The two-day festival will be held at Vagator, Goa, on 6 and 7 December 2024 with a focus on eco-friendly branding and sustainable practices.

Riding on this year’s theme of ‘Feel the Adrenaline, Feel the Inspiration, Feel the Groove’, TVS MotoSoul 4.0 is expected to draw visitors not only from India but also from other countries where the company has a presence. The two-day event promises attractive sessions like culinary experiences, wellness and personal care sessions, bike trips and tricks sessions and community and bonding sessions, as well as live music performances by top artists. The festival will provide attendees with a chance to participate in motorsports including dirt track racing, stunt shows and flat track challenges. Additionally, the attendees will be able to interact with race champions, riding experts and motorcycling legends.

Vimal Sumbly, Head of Business – Premium, TVS Motor Company, said, “TVS MotoSoul is a mark of the motorcycling spirit. It celebrates the bond between man and machine. Each edition has not only grown in scale but has also deepened this connection among enthusiasts. Our commitment goes beyond just motorcycles; we are devoted to nurturing a thriving ecosystem of riders. As we gear up for TVS MotoSoul 4.0, we are excited to redefine the journey with extraordinary experiences, all wrapped in a vibrant and colourful theme that captures the free-spirited essence of our community. We are confident that our mission to democratise these experiences will lead to one of the most exhilarating celebrations of riders and their journeys at TVS MotoSoul 4.0.”