BMW Motorrad India launches the new S 1000 RR

BMW Group India President Vikram Pawah with the new BMW S 1000 RR

BMW Motorrad has officially launched the new BMW S 1000 RR in India on the second day of Auto Expo 2025. Known for its outstanding performance and cutting-edge engineering, the S 1000 RR will be available as a completely built-up unit. Bookings have begun across the BMW Motorrad dealership network and deliveries are expected to start in April 2025. The introductory ex-showroom price of the bike is INR 2,110,000.

Riders can personalise their experience further with two optional packages. The dynamic package focuses on enhancing racing performance and comfort, featuring dynamic damping control for optimal damping and road contact, along with electronic cruise control and heated grips. The M package, tailored for a sportier aesthetic includes exclusive light white or M motorsport paintwork, M carbon wheels, an M sport seat and a black fuel filler cap, among other enhancements.

Aerodynamically, the new S 1000 RR boasts a high windscreen and re-designed side winglets that generate increased downforce of 23.1 kg at 300 km/h, a significant improvement over the previous model. These features enhance rider confidence, cornering speeds and stability. The front wheel area now includes brake ducts integrated into the fender, optimising airflow and reducing brake temperatures during track use. The bike also features asymmetrical side panels with dynamic gill designs inspired by the original S 1000 RR.

Performance is powered by a 999cc inline-four engine with BMW ShiftCam Technology, delivering 210 hp at 13,750 rpm and a top engine speed of 14,600 rpm. The engine features variable intake funnels for improved power delivery at higher speeds. The race-tuned anti-hopping clutch increases safety during braking, while the gear shift assistant pro ensures seamless upshifting. The chassis incorporates an aluminium bridge frame, a height-adjustable suspension strut and an M Chassis Kit, allowing customisation of the swingarm pivot point and rear-end height for precision handling.

Riding modes have been expanded to suit both road and track conditions. In addition to rain, road, dynamic and race modes, the pro riding modes include race pro 1-3, which offer customisable settings for engine braking, ABS and traction control. Hill start control pro, launch control and pit lane limiter further enhance functionality, while dynamic traction control includes adjustable wheelie suppression for maximum acceleration.

Safety and technological features include M brakes, ABS pro with brake slide assist and a 6.5-inch TFT display with multiple screen configurations tailored for road or racetrack use. The lightweight M battery and USB charging socket are now standard, adding to the bike’s convenience and functionality.

To make ownership seamless, BMW Financial Services India provides flexible financing options including financing for accessories. Every BMW Motorrad bike comes with a three-year unlimited-kilometre warranty, extendable to five years, along with 24*7 roadside assistance for breakdowns or towing.

Commenting on the launch, BMW Group India President Vikram Pawah said, "The new BMW S 1000 RR continues with its endless strive for improvement and success securing its leading position. It is a favourite amongst racing enthusiasts looking out for the next thrill. The new BMW S 1000 RR with even higher track performance is the Superbike icon. BMW Motorrad has once again set emphasis on the sporty aspirations and the BMW DNA, making what’s good even better.”

Triumph Motorcycles’ Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride 2026 In India Sees Record 3,700 Participants

Triumph Gentleman's Ride

Triumph Motorcycles has concluded the 2026 edition of The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride (DGR) in India, marking its 13th year of partnership with the event. The ride, which supports prostate cancer research and men’s mental health initiatives, saw participation grow to over 3,700 riders across more than 70 cities in India, an increase from 46 cities in 2025.

Participants rode classic and modern classic motorcycles while dressed in formal attire to support the global movement, which saw riders from 109 countries take part.

The 2026 DGR milestone coincides with Triumph reaching 100,000 motorcycles on Indian roads. This target was achieved within 2.5 years of the launch of the Triumph 400 platform, developed in partnership with Bajaj Auto. The company states that the success of the 400 platform has facilitated the growth of modern classic motorcycling and expanded its rider community beyond metropolitan areas.

Manik Nangia, President, Probiking, Bajaj Auto, said, “The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride has grown into one of the most meaningful global movements in motorcycling, and Triumph is proud to have played a leading role in expanding its scale and participation in India over the years. This year’s edition across 70+ cities reflects the strength of our rider community, dealer network, and the passion that riders bring to the Triumph brand. It is especially encouraging to see the ride grow beyond metro markets into newer riding communities across the country. The milestone of crossing 1 lakh Triumph motorcycles on Indian roads within just 2.5 years of the launch of the Triumph 400 platform makes this edition even more special for us. More importantly, it reflects the rise of a new generation of riders who truly are ‘Those Who Know the Difference’.”

Classic Legends Announces 9-Day ‘Legends’ Care Camp’

Classic Legends - Jawa

Classic Legends, one of the leading mid-sized motorcycle manufacturers, has launched a nationwide service initiative titled the ‘Legends’ Care Camp’ across its authorised Jawa, Yezdi and BSA dealership network. The event is scheduled to run from 23 May to 31 May, 2026.

This initiative reflects the company’s commitment to improving the aftersales experience and customer satisfaction. The service camp will take place in various cities, providing owners with comprehensive vehicle health check-ups and benefits related to service, spare parts, labour and accessories.

During the camp, trained technicians will conduct a 72-point motorcycle inspection. This assessment focuses on key performance and safety areas, including: engine performance, braking systems, clutch operation, electrical systems, tyre condition, suspension, battery health and overall vehicle condition.

The initiative is designed to ensure optimal riding performance and safety, particularly as riders prepare for the monsoon season. Customers visiting dealerships can also access expert consultations on motorcycle upkeep and special offers on periodic maintenance.

Jayapradeep Vasudevan, Head of National Business Operations, Classic Legends, said, “At Classic Legends, customer experience and rider satisfaction remain at the core of our approach. Through the “Legends’ Care Camp”, we aim to offer riders expert service support and proactive vehicle care, ensuring their motorcycles continue to deliver the performance, reliability and riding experience that our brands are known for.”

Hero MotoCorp Introduces XPulse 200 Series In The United Kingdom

Hero Xpulse 200

Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, has launched its XPulse 200 4V and XPulse 200 Pro motorcycles in the United Kingdom, expanding its international adventure motorcycle line-up.

The rollout represents the next phase of the manufacturer's European expansion, following its initial entry into the UK market last year through a distribution partnership with MotoGB.

The motorcycles were introduced at the Inch Perfect Trials in the Ribble Valley, marking the brand's latest European expansion following recent market entries in Italy and Spain. Distribution and aftersales service will be managed via MotoGB’s network of 36 sales and service outlets across the UK, with all models backed by a two-year warranty.

Both models are powered by a 199.6cc, four-stroke, four-valve, single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine paired with a five-speed constant-mesh transmission. The engine produces 18.9 BHP at 8,500 RPM and 17.35 Nm of torque at 6,500 RPM. The motorcycles feature an LCD instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation, a Class-D LED projector headlamp and three anti-lock braking system (ABS) modes (Road, Off-Road and Rally).

Harshavardhan Chitale, CEO, Hero MotoCorp, said, “The launch of the XPulse 200 series marks an important step in strengthening Hero MotoCorp’s global adventure motorcycling portfolio in the UK. The XPulse has created a strong identity globally as an accessible yet highly capable adventure motorcycle that appeals to both - everyday riders and off-road enthusiasts. With its proven performance, versatility and adventure-focused DNA, we are confident that the XPulse range will strongly resonate with the riders. As we continue to expand across international markets, our focus remains on bringing globally benchmarked products and building deeper customer engagement worldwide.”

The XPulse 200 Pro includes hardware adaptations for off-road use, featuring handlebar risers to assist with standing positions and an extended gear shift lever designed to accommodate off-road riding boots. Both variants are equipped with protective bash plates, handguards, and a rear luggage plate with integrated cargo hooks as standard equipment.

TVS Motor Company Appoints Ravindran Shanmugam As Independent Director

Ravindran Shanmugam

Chennai-headquartered two-wheeler and three-wheeler major TVS Motor Company, a part of TVS Group, has appointed Ravindran Shanmugam as an independent director for a 5-year term, effective 13 May 2026, pending shareholder approval.

Shanmugam is a technology entrepreneur and business leader with experience in digital transformation and AI platforms. He currently serves as the Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of Mablle, an AI-based interior design platform in Singapore. He has previously worked as a management consultant at McKinsey & Company and is an alumnus of the University of Oxford.

Sudarshan Venu, Chairman, TVS Motor Company, said, “Ravindran Shanmugam brings deep expertise in digital & consumer-focused businesses, and AI-led transformation, along with strong experience in strategy, entrepreneurship and scaling businesses across global markets. His perspectives will add valuable depth to the TVS Motor board as we continue to strengthen our future-ready growth ambitions. We are delighted to welcome him and look forward to benefiting from his insights and guidance.”

Ravindran Shanmugam, said, “I am honoured to join the board of TVS Motor Company, an institution with a strong legacy of engineering excellence, customer trust and global ambition. Mobility is being reshaped by technology, digital ecosystems, AI and evolving consumer expectations, and TVS Motor is well positioned to play a meaningful role in this transformation. I look forward to contributing to the board’s deliberations and supporting the company’s long-term growth journey with perspectives from technology-led transformation, platform businesses and consumer-focused innovation.”