Classic Legends has launched its third brand – an iconic British brand called as BSA, which at one time was also the biggest brand in the world – in India on the eve of the 78th Independence Day. 

The launch of BSA brand – that was born in Birmingham (England) and is also known as the Birmingham Small Arms Company – is accompanied by the launch of the Gold Star 650 cc classic looking motorcycle, the first units of which were shipped to the UK from the manufacturing plant at Pithampur (near Indore) in late 2022. 

Tasting success un markets of Europe, Turkey, New Zealand and Philippines, the Gold Star 650 motorcycle is a modern piece of engineering that reflects the DNA and brand recall of the iconic British motorcycle brand that BSA was until it went into oblivion.   

Of the opinion that bringing BSA to India is about sharing a piece of world motorcycling history with India, Anand Mahindra, Chairman, Mahindra Group, mentioned at the launch of the Golda Star 650, that the indomitable spirit of BSA, a brand built in the fires of battle is imbued in the new Gold Star. The motorcycle embodies the essence of motorcycling excellence," averred Anupam Thareja, Co-founder of Classic Legends Pvt Ltd. “Every detail, from the tank's iconic shape to the engine's big single character, has been meticulously crafted to capture the spirit of BSA's golden age while delivering the performance, reliability, and innovation that define a global brand. We've poured our hearts into ensuring it lives up to the storied legacy that has set the gold standard for generations worldwide,” he elaborated. 

Touted as India’s biggest single cylinder motorcycle with a bore of 100 mm, the BSA Gold Star is quite understated in its styling. The BSA museum in Birmingham was involved in getting the motorcycle to have the right DNA. A DNA that would resurrect the experience of what the iconic BSA motorcycles were to ride and cherish before the brand stalled.

The liquid-cooled engine with a displacement of 652 cc produces a peak power of 45.6 PS and a peak torque of 55 Nm. The single-cylinder unit was developed by the Technical University of Graz (Austria) while Rotax offered a starting point. It snuggly fits into a frame that was developed by Ricardo Motorcycles of UK. 

With Redline Studios of UK doing the design and styling of the motorcycle, the Classic Legends R&D centre in Pune (India) played a major role in integrating the motorcycle with deep localisation level.

The consideration from the start was to build a heritage motorcycle with British design that is modern yet of the single cylinder kind since that to be a Gold Star. To go with the idea, best-in-class components were sourced such as the Brembo brakes with dual channel ABS. 

Flaunting aluminium Excel rims and Pirelli tyres, the Gold Star 650 motorcycle can attain a top speed of over 160 kmph (100 miles). 

What is the biggest highlight is the NVH. It is far superior than anticipated, according to a company source, and was achieved through much engineering effort that would mean moving the engine oil sump away from under the crankcase. This, he explained, helped get the ergonomics right. To ensure that the tank, seat and other components fell into place the way they should have. 

Getting the ergonomics right facilitated low CG and in-turn a superior NVH, he quipped. Stating that a silent chain was used with three guides, he explained that a balancer shaft was also fitted to aid NVH. 
Particular attention was also given to get a flat torque curve so that it is at home in Indian riding conditions. 

With a five-speed transmission and a light action clutch, the Gold Star 650 is claimed to offer a consistent throttle response rather than be a bit jerky or bit unpredictable. With particular attention to ride and handling, the BSA Gold Star motorcycle was subjected to a series of virtual and field validations (and testing) to achieve the desired results. 

No less than 500,000 km of cumulative endurance testing was carried out in India and UK; 1000 cumulative hours of engine testing was carried out; 100,000 cumulative km of roller bed testing was carried out, and 200,000 km of road testing was carried out. 

Replete with features such as a 12-volt socket and USB charging port and adjustable rear shock absorbers, the BSA Gold Star is priced at INR 2,99,00 ex showroom. It will be available at select 40 dealerships out of the 400 dealerships that Classic Legends has as part of its retail channel network starting with immediate effect. 

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Suzuki Motorcycle India, the two-wheeler subsidiary of Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan, has launched a new edition for its flagship scooter the Suzuki Access ‘Ride Connect Edition.

The scooter now features a Bluetooth enabled multi-function coloured Thin-Film Transistor (TFT) digital instrument cluster, which not only adds aesthetic value but also provides a host of connected features for the user.

The digital instrument features a 4.2-inch coloured TFT display with a clean and intuitive layout that provides the information the rider requires. The Suzuki Access Ride Connect TFT Edition also debuts a new Pearl Mat Aqua Silver colour. The scooter can be had at INR 101,900 (ex-showroom Delhi). The scooter is offered in five colour options including the newly introduced Pearl Mat Aqua Silver along with the existing Metallic Mat Black No. 2, Metallic Mat Stellar Blue, Pearl Grace White and Solid Ice Green colours available in the Suzuki Access range.

Deepak Mutreja, Vice-President – Sales & Marketing, Suzuki Motorcycle India, said, “The Suzuki Access has long been a trusted companion for urban riders and with its latest upgrade, we are adding a new layer of modern functionality and flair. The coloured TFT digital display and the elegant new colour elevate the everyday riding experience while staying true to the scooter’s strength of reliability, comfort and efficiency.”

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Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters, has announced its financial results for FY2025.

The company reported revenue of INR 407 billion and net profit of INR 46 billion, its highest-ever in FY2025. The EBITDA margin came at 14.4 percent, on the back of favourable product mix, improved cost efficiencies and commodity costs. The company sold a total of 5.89 million two-wheelers in the last fiscal.

For Q4 FY2025, the revenue from operations came at IRN 99 billion, up 4 percent, while net profit came at INR 10 billion, up 6 percent YoY. The company sold 1.38 million two-wheelers during the quarter.

Vikram S Kasbekar, Executive Director & Acting Chief Executive Officer, Hero MotoCorp, said, “We achieved highest‐ever revenue and profit in the year, reinforcing our position as the market leader for the 24th consecutive year, closing both CY24 and FY25 at the top.  Our success during the year was underpinned by robust growth across the premium, scooter and EV segments, fuelled by several new product launches. Export volumes outpaced industry trends, and we further expanded our premium retail footprint across India while entering new global markets. We are observing strong retail traction, especially in our new premium and scooter offerings. Continued consolidation in the core segment, growth in the 125cc category, and the upcoming EV launch position us well for sustained momentum.”

Vivek Anand, Chief Financial Officer, Hero MotoCorp, said, “Hero MotoCorp delivered strong financial performance during the year, driven by disciplined fiscal management and focused strategic execution. Looking ahead, we remain optimistic about the near‐to‐mid‐term outlook, key macroeconomic indicators, including revised income tax slabs, repo rate cuts, a strengthening rural economy and a favourable monsoon forecast, are expected to support industry growth.”

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Triumph Motorcycles has launched the Scrambler 400 XC in India at INR 294,147 (ex-showroom Delhi), expanding its 400cc Modern Classic lineup. The model joins the existing Scrambler 400X and will be available at all authorised Triumph dealerships across the country.

The Scrambler 400 XC marks over 75 years of the Scrambler legacy and is influenced by previous models like the Scrambler 900 and 1200. The motorcycle features a design aligned with Triumph’s traditional styling, including a sculpted tank, upswept silencer and a liquid-cooled engine. It has been built for mixed-terrain use and off-road capabilities.

The bike includes a 19-inch front and 17-inch rear cross-spoke wheel setup with tubeless tyres. Standard equipment includes an engine guard, sump guard, high front fender, windshield and handguards. It is available in three colours: Racing Yellow, Storm Grey, and Vanilla White.

Key specifications include a 400cc TR-series engine tuned for the Scrambler with an output of 40 PS at 8,000 rpm and 37.5 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. The motorcycle features a stainless steel twin-skin header system and silencer.

It also gets ride-by-wire throttle, motorcycle traction control, off-road ABS, torque-assist clutch, all-LED lighting, USB charging socket and an immobiliser-equipped key. It also has an adjustable clutch and brake levers, a dual-format instrument cluster and a classic tear-shaped metal fuel tank.

The suspension comprises USD front forks and a rear monoshock, each with 150mm travel.

Triumph offers over 20 accessories for customisation. The motorcycle has a 16,000 km service interval and comes with a five-year standard warranty, including one year of roadside assistance. Extended warranty options are available up to 10 years, along with various maintenance contract packages.

Manik Nangia, President, Pro-Biking Business Unit, Bajaj Auto, said, “The Triumph Scrambler 400 XC enriches our Modern Classic family in India alongside the much-loved Scrambler & Speed range. This new machine is a potent blend of Triumph’s iconic Scrambler DNA, drawing inspiration from over 75 years of Triumph’s Scrambler heritage, and a commitment to category-leading performance and finish. From its rugged design cues echoing our Scrambler 900 and 1200 to its agile handling and genuine adventure capability, the Scrambler 400 XC is built to inspire riders of all backgrounds to embrace the open road and beyond. Our commitment extends far beyond crafting exceptional motorcycles. At Triumph, we are deeply focused on building a vibrant community of passionate riders. Through our unique programs, events, and rider experiences, we aim to foster connections and a shared love for the ride. The Scrambler 400 XC is more than just a ride; it's an invitation to a lifestyle, and we are thrilled to welcome more riders into the Triumph fold.”

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Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI), a leading two-wheeler manufacturer, has launched the 2025 CB650R and CBR650R with E-Clutch technology at INR 960,000 and INR 1.4 million, respectively (ex-showroom Delhi).

The E-Clutch system, developed by Honda globally in 2023, enables riders to shift gears and start smoothly without using the clutch lever. The tech enhances comfort during everyday riding and adds precision during spirited runs – blending convenience with performance.

Tsutsumu Otani, Managing Director, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “We are delighted to introduce the latest additions to our premium motorcycle line-up – the CB650R and CBR650R – now equipped with Honda’s revolutionary E-Clutch technology. The premium motorcycling space has been experiencing remarkable growth in India, and with world-class products like the CB650R and CBR650R, we are confident they will set new benchmarks for performance and riding innovation. The introduction of E-Clutch is a step into the future, giving riders a unique blend of control and comfort, reinforcing Honda’s leadership in technological advancement.”

Yogesh Mathur, Director, Sales and Marketing, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “We are excited to bring the new CB650R and CBR650R for our Indian riders, with the revolutionary E-Clutch technology. The standard variants of both these models were introduced earlier this year and they received a phenomenal response. With the introduction of the E-Clutch equipped variants, we believe this will further elevate the customer’s riding experience while strengthening Honda’s position in the premium motorcycle space. These motorcycles perfectly balance performance, ease, and innovation - qualities that today’s riders value more than ever.”

Both models are powered by a 649cc, liquid-cooled, inline four-cylinder engine delivering 70 kW at 12,000 RPM and 63 Nm of torque at 9,500 RPM. They feature a six-speed gearbox and high-end hardware, including Showa 41 mm SFF-BP front forks, rear monoshock and dual-channel ABS. A 5-inch full-colour TFT display with smartphone connectivity via the Honda RoadSync app adds a modern touch.

The CB650R sports a minimalist Neo Sports Café design and comes in Candy Chromosphere Red and Matte Gunpowder Black. The racier CBR650R features a faired design with Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) and is offered in Grand Prix Red and Matte Gunpowder Black.

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