The experiential ride, set amidst natural terrain on the outskirts of Chennai, simulated challenging off-roading conditions including sharp turns, uneven surfaces, and high-degree tilts among others.

The new Himalayan retains the original versatility and vigour of the motorcycle, and makes the ride experience more engaging by adding a switchable ABS feature. Switching off the ABS allows the rear wheel to lock, and lets the rider drift when riding off-road. This makes adventure touring and trail riding experience more engaging and exciting for riding enthusiasts.

 With more focus on rider safety, the new Himalayan is equipped with a hazard switch that warns other riders in its proximity in case of a red flag. In addition to this, the enhanced brake mechanism ensures a smoother riding experience with less stopping distance. The new motorcycle will also come with an improved side-stand that will make parking on any kind of terrains easier.

The new bike will be available in Lake Blue and Rock Red in addition to the existing portfolio of Snow White, Granite Black, Sleet Grey and Gravel Grey. (MT)

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Bengaluru-based electric two-wheeler maker Simple Energy is strengthening its presence in the country with the appointments of Jitin Johnson as Head of Marketing and Kevin Thomas as Head of Brand.

To support its next phase of brand and business expansion, the company has expanded its marketing team to over 40 professionals. Simple Energy plans to accelerate its all-India footprint, with a target of establishing 150 retail stores and 200 service centres across the country by March 2026.

Jitin Johnson, Head of Marketing, Simple Energy, brings 14 years of marketing experience, having previously served as Assistant General Manager – Digital Marketing at River EV. He will lead the company’s omnichannel marketing strategy, covering brand development, go-to-market initiatives, digital transformation and customer engagement.

Kevin Thomas, Head of Brand, Simple Energy, brings over 13 years of expertise in Creative Direction and Visual Design. He most recently served as Principal Visual Designer at Ultraviolette Automotive. His career includes leadership roles at brands such as Amazon, Motorola and OnePlus.

Jitin Johnson, said, "Simple Energy is redefining how India moves - blending performance, design, and purpose in a way that truly resonates with the next generation of riders. I’m excited to build on this momentum, shaping a brand that’s as emotionally charged as it is.”

Kevin Thomas, said, “My creative philosophy is shaped by years spent at the intersection of design, machines, and art. I’ve always believed that great automotive brands are built not just through engineering, but through emotion and visual storytelling. At Simple Energy, I’m excited to craft a brand that’s artistically expressive, deeply rider-centric, and unmistakably rooted in the culture of movement.”

Smitha Rao, General Manager - Brand & Marketing, Simple Energy, added, “These appointments and the expansion of our marketing team mark an important step in strengthening Simple Energy’s brand and business ambitions. With Jitin and Kevin leading key functions, we’re better positioned to build meaningful connections with our customers, enhance brand consistency, and accelerate our mission to make electric mobility aspirational yet accessible.”

At present, Simple Energy’s offerings include the Simple ONE Gen 1.5 and Simple OneS two-wheelers, which deliver claimed IDC ranges of 248 km and 181 km, respectively. The company has also recently achieved milestones such as becoming India’s first OEM to commercially manufacture heavy rare-earth-free motors and the first to introduce an 8-year motor warranty.

With 61 retail outlets across key cities, the company is now preparing to expand into five new markets, including Delhi and Patna.

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Italian two-wheeler and three-wheeler manufacturer the Piaggio Group presented its new motorcycle and scooter lineup at EICMA 2025, reaffirming its status among the world’s two-wheeler manufacturers.

The company introduced the Aprilia SR GT 400, a mid-size GT scooter featuring a liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine producing 36 hp, long-travel suspension and tyres with a deeper tread pattern. Standard equipment includes a 5-inch TFT display, keyless system, traction control and ABS.

Aprilia also introduced the RS 457 GP Replica, a special edition of the RS 457 sports bike. It features upgraded equipment for sporting riding, including a quick shifter for clutchless shifts and higher-friction front brake pads. The motorcycle is powered by a liquid-cooled, forward-facing twin-cylinder engine delivering 35 kW.

The Aprilia Factory range (RSV4, Tuono V4, RS 660 and Tuono 660) gains new graphics for 2026, which feature aerodynamic flow as a common theme.

The Moto Guzzi range receives new colour options for 2026.

• The V7 Stone is available in the new Sabbia Camo finish, while the V7 Special is offered in Nero Smeraldo and Bianco 1969. The V7 Sport features the new Rosso Monza livery.
• The V85 travel enduro range gains new colours: Verde Legnano and Rosso Monza for the V85 Strada and Giallo Wadi and Grigio Yanar Dag for the V85 TT.
• The V85 TT Travel is available in a new Blu Zefiro finish.
• The Stelvio model debuts new graphics, Grigio Climbing and Verde Hiking, inspired by outdoor apparel.

Vespa and Piaggio Scooters

Piaggio presented the Beverly 25th Anniversary edition, celebrating 25 years since the model’s launch. Available with 310 hpe and 400 hpe engines, it features an exclusive design with a dedicated Grigio 25th Anniversary colour, a light grey graphic, and a smoked flyscreen.

Vespa launched the new Primavera and Sprint S models, which feature technical, functional and design updates, including new 12-inch wheels, a rear disc brake and full-LCD instrumentation. Keyless ignition is standard on 125 and 150 models.

In addition, Vespa is launching a special edition of the Primavera and GTS to mark its 80^th anniversary in 2026. The Vespa 80th series features a distinctive Verde Pastello colour, inspired by the earliest single-colour Vespa models and a commemorative ‘80^th’ badge.

As of June 2025, the group held 10 percent of the European two-wheeler market and maintained its leading position in the scooter segment with an 18 percent share.

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Hero MotoCorp unveiled its plans for electric mobility under the VIDA brand and revealed new internal combustion engine (ICE) models at EICMA 2025. The new products were engineered and developed by the company’s R&D centres in India and Germany.

The company's electric brand, VIDA, launched the VIDA Novus portfolio, which includes three mobility expressions:

• NEX 1: A mobility archetype that is portable and personal.
• NEX 2: A compact, self-balancing electric trike with three-wheel stability.
• NEX 3: An all-weather personal EV that offers the safety and comfort of four wheels.

VIDA also announced the European launch of the VIDA VX2 urban scooter. The VX2 offers a 125 km WMTC range, a top speed of 90 kmph and twin removable IP67-rated batteries.

Furthermore, VIDA unveiled two electric motorcycle concepts:

• VIDA Concept Ubex: A Neo-Naked Urban Explorer with multi-terrain capability, built on a modular platform.
• VIDA Project VxZ: Developed in collaboration with Zero Motorcycles USA, this e-motorcycle platform aims to strengthen the global electrification alliance.

The brand also introduced the VIDA DIRT.E Series of off-road electric motorcycles:

• DIRT.E K3: An electric motorcycle for children, featuring three adjustable sizes. The K3 received the Red Dot Design Concept Award 2025.
• DIRT.E MX7 Racing Concept: A high-performance electric off-road motorcycle built using Hero’s Dakar Rally engineering expertise.

New ICE Performance Models

Hero MotoCorp unveiled two ICE models, both Euro5+ compliant, developed with insights from the Hero MotoSports Team Rally:

• Xpulse 210 Dakar Edition: This rally-ready motorcycle is powered by a liquid-cooled 210cc DOHC engine. It is equipped with fully adjustable, rally-grade suspensions, offering 280mm of travel and 270mm ground clearance.
• Hunk 440 SX: A modern scrambler powered by a 440cc oil-cooled, long-stroke engine. It includes Ride-by-Wire technology, multiple ride modes and switchable ABS with traction control.

Dr. Pawan Munjal, Executive Chairman, Hero MotoCorp, said, “At Hero MotoCorp, we envision the Future of Mobility at the powerful intersection of technology, sustainability, and human ambition. As the world’s largest manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters, we are committed to creating smarter, cleaner and more connected mobility products, platforms and solutions. This year, as we proudly celebrate serving over 125 million customers across 52 countries, we continue to build on our legacy as a global mobility leader. Our showcase at EICMA 2025 brings our vision ‘Be the Future of Mobility’ to life, demonstrating how we converge our legacy & scale, manufacturing & engineering excellence and innovation & sustainability.”

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At the 2025 EICMA in Milan, Japanese automaker Honda unveiled a diverse lineup of motorcycles that underline its strategic focus on the European market.

The company introduced five key models – including both combustion-engine and electric motorcycles – that harmonise the brand’s heritage with emerging technology and rider demands, while addressing stringent European regulations and consumer expectations.

Honda’s presentation at EICMA reflected its intent to expand influence in Europe, a region that demands high compliance and sophistication. “Our product portfolio for Europe must balance performance, emissions and connected technologies,” said Honda’s executive leadership. The new models underscore a pragmatic approach aimed at catering to a broad spectrum of riders, from urban commuters to touring enthusiasts

The OEM introduced the CB1000GT, a sport tourer aimed at riders seeking a balance between power and comfort. Powered by a 1000cc inline-four engine derived from the Hornet family, it emphasises smooth and predictable throttle response, features multiple power modes, traction control and adjustable engine braking. The bike incorporates a revised chassis with ergonomics designed to improve rider and passenger comfort on long-distance rides, distinguishing itself from track-focused sportbikes.

V3R 900 E-Compressor Prototype

The V3R 900 revealed at EICMA represents a conceptual leap with its introduction of an electronically controlled compressor paired with a 900cc V3 engine layout, a Honda first in motorcycling. This combination enables enhanced low-end torque with performance comparable to larger-capacity engines while aligning with increasing environmental standards. The prototype’s “Non-Rail Roller Coaster” developmental concept suggests a ride experience designed to combine excitement with rider assurance.

WN7 Electric Motorcycle

The WN7 is Honda’s fully electric motorcycle tailored for urban mobility. Sporting a 9.3 kWh battery and a WLTC range of approximately 140 kilometres, it also features CCS2 fast charging and connectivity features. With its clean, smooth silhouette and ‘Be the Wind’ design philosophy, the WN7 aims to deliver a distinct riding experience that highlights the quietness and immediacy unique to electric propulsion.

CB1000F

Drawing inspiration from 1980s Honda race bikes, the CB1000F blends retro aesthetics with modern technology. Based on the Hornet 1000 platform, it delivers 124 hp and 103 Nm of torque. Ergonomic enhancements include an extended rear subframe for improved space, while rider aids such as multiple power modes, traction control and engine braking adjustability consolidate its appeal to both nostalgic and modern riders.

SH125i

Reimagined for 26YM, Europe’s most popular scooter, the SH125i introduces sharper looks, a new light signature and a five-inch TFT monitor, further enhancing its enduring appeal. The new front end takes inspiration from the established SH350i, unifying the range and providing a strong visual identity for the trio built at the Atessa factory in Italy. With a ‘one line’ design from front to rear, the 26YM SHs are instantly recognisable thanks to a simplicity that retains the SH essence while noticeably moving it on from the outgoing model. An SH150i version will also be available in certain countries.

New Embelem & Strategic Outlook

Honda is adjusting its product marks to differentiate its electric (EV) and internal combustion engine (ICE) motorcycles.

The company will unify the product mark for electric motorcycles to 'Honda' using a new font. Meanwhile, it will continue to use its traditional Wing mark for ICE motorcycles.

Additionally, the product emblem appearing on the body of some ICE products will see a design change. A new ‘Honda Flagship Wing’ emblem will be adopted for flagship models within product brands such as CBR, Gold Wing, and Rebel. Examples of models receiving this new emblem include the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade and the Rebel 1100.

Honda’s EICMA 2025 range highlights a clear roadmap focusing on reconciling traditional motorcycle engineering excellence with emerging trends in electrification and rider safety technologies. Over-the-air updates, smartphone integration and advanced digital displays were emphasised as standard expectations shaped by European consumers and regulations.

The five products unveiled target distinct segments to position Honda competitively amid tightening emissions rules and evolving rider lifestyles in Europe. This measured product strategy reflects Honda’s adaptive approach to global market dynamics, balancing experience with innovation.

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