MT Bureau

As India will be moving to the new emission regime from April this year, the two-wheeler manufacturing companies have fielded new models of new variants with BS-VI engines.

Suzuki Motorcycle

Suzuki Motorcycle India Private Limited (SMIPL), a subsidiary of two-wheeler manufacturer, Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan, has moved from BS-IV to BS-VI vehicles with its top-selling scooter, Access 125. It is endowed with new features including Eco Assist illumination, Fuel Injection engine, External fuel filling lid and LED headlamp. Powered by Suzuki Eco Performance Technology, the updated BS-VI engine delivers 8.7ps@6,750rpm, 10Nm@5,500rpm offering top-class power performance at low fuel consumption.

The Eco Assist illumination helps the rider to get optimum throttle usage. Green light indicates that the riding patterns are compatible with fuel-efficient riding. The advanced Fuel Injection engine technology provides smooth power delivery, thus offering optimum combustion efficiency in different riding conditions. It also helps in easy starting even in cold condition. External fuel filling lid provides the ease of refueling without opening the seat. The new super bright LED headlamp will help enhance night visibility for a stress-free ride. Offering a good balance on the road, the scooter is also equipped with Combined Brake System (CBS), which enables to operate both brakes only by left lever.

Koichiro Hirao, Managing Director, Suzuki Motorcycle India, said, “We have our first BS-VI product ahead of the regulation enforcement deadline of April 1. For more than a decade now, Suzuki Access 125 has been among the segment’s top-selling scooter known for its performance and popular tagline as ‘Kam Peeta Hai,’ and has enjoyed immense love and support from the customers in the country. We are confident that the BS-VI-compliant Access 125 will be adored even more by Indian consumers. The All-New Access 125 comes loaded with new features which will further enhance the over-all riding experience for the customers.”

Offering comfort as a necessity, Suzuki Access 125 has long seat, enlarged floorboard larger under-seat storage and easy start system. It is designed to offer premium look with its rich bodywork, stylish edgy lines, LED tail lamp and chrome plate finish. The new Special Edition model offers standard USB DC socket for charging mobile phones on the go.

Piaggio India

Piaggio India has introduced Fuel Injection technology in its entire Vespa and Aprilia scooter range to comply with BS-VI emission standard. This technological change enhances the consumer riding experience and enables Piaggio to deliver its range of 2-wheelers manufactured in India complying with the green objectives.

Aprilia SR Range gets a new high performance 160cc engine with 11 PS peak power at its disposal and delivers extraordinary fun to its riders. In line with the Aprilia brand ethos ‘Designed for Racers, Built for Riders,’ the SR range continuously reinvents itself to reflect the high performance DNA of the brand. This high-performance couples, with the high compliance to greener technology and the Aprilia Storm on other end, deliver the Aprilia philosophy to their Gen Z customers by complying with greener standards.

Diego Graffi, Managing Director and CEO, Piaggio India, said, “We are pleased to transition effectively into BS-VI emission norms for our Vespa and Aprilia range of scooters, ahead of the deadline. We have achieved significant reduction in emission through our advanced combustion system. As a global brand, we understand the need to innovate and evolve, in order to build the mobility for future.”

Honda

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt Ltd (HMSI) has launched its first BS-VI motorcycle, the next generation 125cc advanced and stylish SP 125 BS-VI, with a starting price of INR 72,900 (ex-showroom, Delhi).

Minoru Kato, President, CEO and Managing Director, HMSI, said, “We are overwhelmed with the love India has given to the country’s first BS-VI 2-wheeler, Activa 125 BS-VI. Taking forward the journey of #AQuietRevolution, we have introduced yet another radical product. The SP125 BS-VI would raise the bar for technology, style and performance in the 125cc motorcycle segment.’’

Yadvinder Singh Guleria, Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing, HMSI, said, “With Honda’s superior technology and many first-in-segment features, SP 125 BS-VI provides the best riding performance with 16 percent more fuel efficiency.”

The SP 125 BS-VI is designed and built for the next era of transformation with first-in-class features and offering the best value for money. At the heart of SP 125 ticks BS-VI-compliant Honda’s trusted 125cc PGM-FI HET (Honda Eco Technology) engine, boosted by Enhanced Smart Power (eSP). The Sophisticated, Precise and Sensitive eSP optimizes performance by reducing friction, enables silent start, and provides a smooth eco-friendly ride.

eSP technology is an integration of Honda ACG starter, programmed fuel injection, friction reduction, mileage-up, full digital meter, fuel efficiency details, ECO Indicator, HET tubeless tyre, and five-speed Transmission.

The impressive style definition with aggressive tank design and edgy graphics make the SP 125 BS-VI a complete head turner. The modern headlamp design and 5 spoke split alloy wheels add to its sporty character. The chrome finish muffler enhances the premium appeal. An integrated engine start/stop switch adds to convenience.

TVS Motor Company

TVS Motor Company has introduced the 2020 range of TVS Apache RTR 200 4V, which has Bluetooth-enabled SmartXonnect mobile application technology, and TVS Apache RTR 160 4V BS-VI motorcycles. It has also launched the new BS-VI TVS Jupiter equipped with ET-Fi (Ecothrust Fuel injection) technology.

TVS Apache RTR 4V motorcycles come equipped with attractive race graphics along with new LED headlamp with claw styled position lamps that offers best-in-class long range light penetration and enhanced widespread. The 2020 range of Apache series is enabled with Race Tuned-Fuel injection ‘RT-Fi’ technology.

Meghashyam Dighole, Head, (Marketing) Premium Motorcycles, TVS Motor Company,  said, “We are delighted to introduce the 2020 range of TVS Apache RTR 200 4V and TVS Apache RTR 160 4V BS-VI motorcycles. These motorcycles are testaments of our commitment to delighting Apache customers with a true racing experience. The 2020 range of Apache RTR series offers an array of premium features enabled by cutting edge technology and will transform performance biking. This marks the commencement of the transition of our vehicles to the BS-VI norms.”

Bajaj Auto is expected to launch its BS-VI versions including new brands in April 2020.

NB: Featured photo is representational.

Japanese two-wheeler maker Suzuki Motorcycle India has introduced its OBD-2B compliant scooters – Suzuki Avenis and Suzuki Burgman series (Burgman Street and Burgman Street EX) at prices starting INR 93,200 and INR 95,800 respectively (ex-showroom Delhi).

With this, the company’s entire two-wheeler line-up including scooters and motorcycles is now OBD-2B compliant. Mechanically the two-wheelers remain unchanged, the Avenis continues to be powered by the all-aluminium 4-stroke, single cylinder 124.3cc engine, which produces 10 Nm of peak torque at 5,500 rpm. It is equipped with Suzuki Eco Performance (SEP) technology and advanced fuel injection that provides a balance of performance and fuel efficiency. It also now gets a new option –  Metallic Matte Black No. 2 / Matte Titanium Silver.

The Burgman Street is powered by all-aluminium 4 stroke, single cylinder 124cc engine and SEP tech. It produces 10 Nm of torque at 5,500 rpm, while the Burgman Street EX comes uses Suzuki Eco Performance Alpha (SEP-α) engine technology, which comes with Engine Auto Stop-Start (EASS) and Silent Starter System. It also gets 12-inch rear wheel.

Kenichi Umeda, Managing Director, Suzuki Motorcycle India, said, “At Suzuki Motorcycle India, we focus on meeting the evolving needs of our customers while ensuring compliance with the latest regulations. The transition of our entire product range to OBD-2B compliance is a step towards providing a cleaner and more sustainable riding experience. With the introduction of new colour options for the Avenis and Burgman Street EX, we hope to bring more value and choice to our customers. We sincerely appreciate the support and trust of our customers which inspires us to keep innovating.”

Chennai-based two-wheeler and three-wheeler manufacturer TVS Motor Company has appointed Peyman Kargar as its new Head of International Business. Based out of Dubai Kargar will report to K N Radhakrishnan, Director & CEO, TVS Motor Company.

Prior to joining TVS Motor Co, Kargar was the Global Chairman & President of INFINITI, the premium brand of Nissan Company. Before that he held the role of Chairman and Senior Vice-President of Africa Middle East India Region CEO for the Datsun brand. He was responsible for Nissan Group in over 80 countries. He also held the role of VP Sales & Marketing for Renault Group for 50 countries in Africa, Middle East, Iran and India.

With over three decades of experience, Kargar has held leadership roles in the automotive industry across Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

K N Radhakrishnan, said, “Peyman’s prolific global leadership experience and expertise will add significant value to the company. The Company has been strengthening its position in international markets and has plans to expand further in advanced economies. We are confident that under his leadership, we will further strengthen our market position and continue to set benchmarks. We wish him the very best and welcome him to the TVSM family.”

Chennai-headquartered mid-size motorcycle major Royal Enfield has introduced Project Delta, a custom-built ‘Super Meteor 650’ by Australian design firm Purpose Built Moto.

The Australian design house shared that the custom-built Super Meteor 650 is inspired from the 1940-50s era of motorcycling and has been redrawn from the Super Meteor 700 and Flying Flea from World War II.

A closer look at Project Delta reveals an extensively reworked frame, which encompasses vintage styling along with modern engineering refinements. The oil cooler is incorporated in-frame, the hand-fabricated Girder Fork is a blend of artistry and engineering. It features custom spoked wheels (23-inch front & 19-inch rear), slim peanut tank, reworked chassis.

Furthermore, it uses hand-shifted gears that demand rider engagement. In terms of aesthetics, it sports the Art Nouveau-inspired paintwork featuring – black, gold and cherry red.

Anuj Dua, Head - International Business - APAC, Royal Enfield, said, “Royal Enfield motorcycles are truly global while being handcrafted with passion which makes us a true rider’s ally in every sense. As a rider’s ally, we thrive on every facet of riding be it - exploration, customization or motorcycling ecosystem. While our motorcycles inspire builders across the globe, in turn we are also stimulated by their creativity, vision and zeal. Australia is one such country which has given us an amazing community of customisers who constantly challenge and enthuse us at the same time. Apart from uniquely interpreting the design language to make beautiful builds, Royal Enfield has been pushing the envelope with its custom builds in terms of capabilities in Australia. We are confident that in the coming years too, our motorcycles will continue to enable builders in uniquely expressing themselves.”

Tom Gilroy, Founder, Purpose Built Moto, said, “The process for Project Delta is both a culmination of the design DNA I've developed over the last 8 years building motorcycles, and a stake in the ground for Purpose Built Moto moving forward. Shaping our design around the Royal Enfield 650 Twin as our blank canvas - a simple, beautiful motor.  A lot of manufacturers have stopped making their engines beautiful, instead covering them in plastic fairings, and hiding them away. Classic motorcycles always made the engine the star, and that's why I love the Royal Enfield 650 Twin engines. We've delivered a no compromise vision that blends the modern power plant of the Royal Enfield 650 twin, with inspiration drawn from the original Super Meteor 700, and antique models like the Flying flea of the 1940's.”

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) has launched the updated OBD2B-compliant Shine 100 motorcycle.

The 98.98 cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled, fuel-injected engine that powers this motorbike is now OBD2B certified to satisfy the most recent emission standards. This engine provides 5.43 kW of power at 7,500 RPM and 8.04 Nm of torque at 5,000 RPM, delivering a smooth and economical ride. A 4-speed gearbox is included with it. The Honda emblem and updated body panel artwork are highlights of the new Shine 100.  Its sleek muffler, long and comfy single-piece seat, blacked-out alloy wheels, handy aluminium grabrail and attractive front cowl all add to the motorcycle's clean appearance and make daily commuting more convenient.

Black with Red, Black with Blue, Black with Orange, Black with Gray and Black with Green are the five vibrant colour options available for the Shine 100. It is constructed on a diamond-shaped frame that is both lightweight and sturdy, and it has dual rear shock absorbers and telescopic front forks. The Shine 100 has CBS (Combined Braking System) drum brakes on both ends for increased safety. All HMSI dealerships in India are currently selling the new 2025 Honda Shine 100 at INR 68,767 (ex-showroom Delhi).

Tsutsumu Otani, Managing Director, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “We are happy to introduce the new OBD2B-compliant Shine 100 to our customers in India. Since its launch in March 2023, Shine 100 has established itself as one of the fastest-growing brands in HMSI’s motorcycle portfolio. This entry-level motorcycle has been well received for its superior reliability, fuel efficiency and overall value. With the latest update, we continue our commitment to providing environmentally responsible and high-quality mobility solutions.”

Yogesh Mathur, Director – Sales and Marketing, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “The Shine 100 has been a strong player in the entry-level motorcycle segment, offering exceptional quality and comfort at an affordable price. With this latest upgrade, we are further enhancing its appeal and ensuring compliance with the latest emission norms while maintaining its renowned fuel efficiency and reliability. The Shine 100 has played a key role in strengthening Honda’s presence in the entry-level commuter segment, and we are confident that this new version of Naye India ki Amazing Shine will continue to attract more customers across India.”