TVS Apache Velocity 160 Review

                               
TVS Apache Velocity is an enhanced version of APACHE RTR 160 and has been designed to be a street fighter bike. From the moment it was unveiled at the Jakarta Motorcycle Show, the bike has been highly talked about. Here’s a detailed look at its features and specifications.

Engine – The bike is powered by a 160 cc four stroke engine, which promises a maximum power of 15.2 bhp at 8500 rpm and a torque of 13.1 Nm at 6000 rpm (expected). The engine is coupled with a 5 speed type gear and the clutch is the wet multi-plate type. Velocity is expected to reach the speed of 60 kmph in a record break 4.6 seconds.

Performance and Comfort – Handling and performance with the bike has been reported to be efficient and with a number of addons like the air-cooled engine and the wet multi-plate clutch, the bike gives a good fuel efficiency of almost 42 km/l when riding in the city. The fuel storing capacity of Velocity is impressive at 15 liters.

While designing Velocity every intricate detail has been adhered to, be it to enhance the appearance, the performance or the comfort factor. Velocity has Upside down forks as the front suspension and the YSS Monoshock unit for the rear suspension that promises a jolt free ride. The ergonomics of Velocity is better than its cousin TVS Apache’s. The broad wheelbase and wide tires offers unparalleled stability and control to the user.

Appearance – In terms of looks as well, Velocity scores brownie points with an aerodynamic body and chrome finished headlights. The broad Bridgestone Battlax tyres do not just add to the stability and comfort factor but also to the overall appeal of the bike. The pillion seat is highly raised which gives the bike a macho appeal. The graphics and the expected color combination (Midnight Black and Sunset Yellow) further add to the enticing display.

TVS Apache Velocity 160 Price – The prices for the bike is going to be somewhere around INR 80,000.

TVS Apache Velocity 160 Specifications :
Engine Type – Single Cylinder, 4 Stroke
Displacement – 159.7 cc
Starting – Self Start
Body Work – Custom Fiberglass
Tires – Bridgestone Battlax
Maximum Power – 15.2 Bhp @ 8500 rpm
Maximum Torque – 13.1 Nm @ 6000 rpm
Mileage – 55kmpl Petrol (Approximate)

Bajaj KTM Duke 200 Review

True to its name Bajaj KTM DUKE 200 screams good looks and performance. This eye-catching bike is bound to turn heads with its chiseled features, ranging from the graphic to the aerodynamic body; KTM DUKE 200 is a clear winner. The bike although, is not just about good looks, if we can tare our eyes away from the masculinity and suave appearance of the bike and concentrate on its features, we will witness that the DUKE 200 impeccably impresses in that domain too.

The engine is a 200 cc single cylinder and is liquid-cooled and fuel-injected. With such a powerful engine, KTM DUKE 200 is expected to churn out a power of 25Bhp at 10,000 rpm and a torque of 20Nm at 8000 rpm. The gear is a six speed one and it has a maintenance free battery. The best thing about the engine is that it feels smooth no matter what the speed is.

The bike does not weigh much at 137 kg which makes performing on it facile and effortless. The bike’s build-up of speed is remarkable and this monster is expected to go from o to 100 kmph in flat 6.5 seconds!

So far Duke did not fail to impress us on the style and performance front but how about comfort? The bike’s seat is comfortable enough to ride long distances and does not cause a strain on the rider’s spine. The handlebars apart from adding to the good looks are comfortable to hold and assist in effortlessly flicking the bike. The Duke comes with an under-slung exhaust system that maintains the bike’s center of gravity and enhances expert handling. The front headlights are bright enough to ensure safe riding at nights and the tyres being MRF offer excellent grip.

Bajaj KTM DUKE 200 has upped the ante as far as sporty bikes are concerned and with it being available in three mesmerizing colors (White and Orange, Black and Orange and Black and green) this bike is predicted to become a hot favorite soon.

Bajaj KTM Duke 200 Price, Bajaj KTM Duke 200 Mileage, Bajaj KTM Duke 200 Colors, Specifications

Price – On Road Price for the bike in Mumbai is Rs. 1,30,000

Engine Specifications
Displacement – 199.5 cc
Engine – 4 stroke, Single-cylinder,
Max Power – 25 Bhp @10000rpm
Max Torque: – 19.2 Nm @8000rpm
Gears - 6 Speed
0 to 60KM/Hr: 3.30 sec.

Other Specifications
Weight – 136kg
Ground Clearance – 165mm
Fuel Tank – 10.50L
Wheelbase – 1367mm
Colors – Black, White, Green

Bajaj Auto is now world’s third largest motorcycle manufacturer

Once known for its iconic scooter Chetak, Bajaj Auto has now transformed itself into a global motorcycle manufacturer.  In the financial year 2011-12 the company sold over 3.8 million units of motorcycles worldwide which makes it world’s third largest motorcycle manufacturer.  As far as motorcycles are concerned the company is only behind to global motorcycle leader Honda and India’s largest two wheeler company Hero Motocorp.  This isn’t enough, the company is also ranks amongst the world’s most profitable automobile manufacturer.


It’s truly remarkable for the company which was once known for its bad quality and operational inefficiency.  The company now owns strong brand portfolio of motorcycles across the world.  The brand Pulsar and Discover’s cumulative sales have already crossed five million units. Discover is estimated to be the second largest selling motorcycle brand in India.  It sold nearly 1.5 million units during the financial year 2011-2012. The company exported 1.27 million units of motorcycle worldwide during the financial year 2011-2012.  Boxer is the largest selling brand in Africa and Pulsar 135 LS ranks amongst the top selling motorcycle model in various Latin American markets.


It is to be noted that Boxer competes with several Japanese and Chinese motorcycle brand in the African market.  One of the examples is Honda ACE CB125 (Honda’s $600 motorcycle).  Pulsar competes in the Latin American and South Asian market where Japanese brands are ruling the market. The company enjoys leadership position in 12 countries out of 35 countries in which it exports. Beside this, the company owns 47% stake in KTM Power Sports AG of Austria.  The company currently enjoys 10% market share of global motorcycle market and it aims to increase it up to 30% mark. The company aims to sell 4.5 million motorcycles worldwide in the financial year 2012-2013.

Most fuel efficient bikes of India across all segments

The burgeoning motorcycle segment of India is filled with a number of vehicles that are sporty, stylish and yet surprisingly fuel efficient. This focus of two wheeler manufacturers on the mileage of their bikes is due to the cost consciousness of the buyers as well as the ever-increasing prices of petrol in the country. However, in all four segments, namely 100 to 110 cc, 150 cc, 180 cc and 200+ cc, there are so many choices that consumers may not be able to select the most fuel efficient bike that fulfils their requirements.

In the entry level 100 to 110 cc segment, the latest entrant is the Honda Dream Yuga, which is said to deliver mileage of 72 kmpl under ideal testing conditions, as per the company. Its closest competitor will be the Bajaj Discover 100 cc, which is said to deliver an average of 70 kmpl. Likewise, the mileage of segment-leader Hero MotoCorp's Splendor, which comes in variants like Splendor+, Splendor NXG, Super Splendor and Splendor PRO, also hovers around 70 kmpl. Bajaj Platina is said to have class-leading mileage of 108 kmpl, which may appease those who consider fuel efficiency to the most important factor while buying a bike. Honda CB Twister may also appeal to them due to its mileage of 85.7 kmpl and attractive looks.

Next comes the 125 cc bracket, which is ruled by the likes of Hero Glamour, Bajaj Discover and Honda Stunner when sales volumes are considered. Hero's bike in this segment leads the charts in terms of fuel efficiency by running 69 kmpl, while Bajaj's offering follows closely at 68 kmpl. On the other hand, Japanese manufacturer's Stunner, which boasts of better looks than the two rivals, delivers mileage of 68.3 kmpl. Other Japanese bike makers are not far behind either, with Suzuki's Slingshot offering an average of 66 kmpl, while Yamaha's Gladiator travelling 65 km on a full tank. However, the leader in terms of mileage is the Bajaj XCD, which is said to deliver mileage of 125 kmpl under ideal conditions. The 135 cc version of Pulsar is known to offer fuel efficiency of 68.1 kmpl.

For a more powerful bike that offers decent fuel economy, consumers move towards the 150 cc segment. Yamaha SZ-R, Bajaj Discover 150, Honda Unicorn and Suzuki GS150 offer an average of 50, 55, 55 and 48 kmpl, respectively. On the other hand, mileages of Bajaj Pulsar 150 (68.1 kmpl), Hero CBZ Xtreme (65.1 kmpl), Honda Unicorn CB Dazzler (60 kmpl) and Hero Hunk (65.1 kmpl) are considerably higher. The fuel efficiency of the stylish and attractive Yamaha Fazer is close to 50 kmpl, which is similar to that of the recently upgraded TVS Apache 160. Pulsar 180 and new Apache 180 offer fuel efficiency of close to 58 kmpl and 50 kmpl, respectively.

The truly powerful bikes available in the mass market of the country are powered by 200 to 250 cc engine. Bajaj Pulsar 220 and Hero Karizma ZMR are the best known bikes in this segment and deliver mileages of 54.2 and 51 kmpl, under ideal conditions. Honda CBR 250R, on the other hand, offers paltry fuel efficiency of 30 kmpl. The cruiser bike in this market, Bajaj Avenger provides average of close to 50 kmpl, which is registered under testing conditions. All eyes will be set on the mileage of the upcoming Pulsar 200 NS, which is due to hit showrooms in Maharashtra next week, to determine the most fuel-friendly bike in this segment.

Honda Launches Dream Yuga in India

Honda Motor Co. ( HMC ) has launched the 110cc Dream Yuga in India, its cheapest motorbike ever. The move is trigged by the company's goal to double the revenues generated from motorcycles in India and to compete with the Hero MotoCorp. Limited.
The company will focus on the Indian market for the next 10 years with an expected increase in export to 150,000 motorbikes by 2013 from 111,000 bikes last year. The company expects 30% of revenues from motorcycles to be generated from India by 2020 compared with the current level of 13%.
The new bike has been priced at INR 44,642 (US$819) in the New Delhi showrooms. The company expects to sell 300,000 units of Dream Yuga in 2012.
Motor bikes are most preferred in India due to its fuel efficiency and low cost. Two-wheeler sales shot up 14% to 13.44 million units in the last fiscal year in India.
Other motorcycle makers are also expanding into the lucrative emerging markets including India. Yamaha Motor Co., for example, will start the construction of new motorcycle factory in Tamil Nadu. With this new factory, which will be operational in 2014, Yamaha will have a production capacity of 2.8 million units by 2018 in India.
Suzuki Motorcycle has also recorded an improvement in sales to 30,635 units in April 2012 compared to 29,362 units in April 2011. The company has further plans for setting up new factories which will increase the capacity of bikes in India to 1 million by 2014.
Honda Motor Company is a leading manufacturer of automobiles and the largest manufacturer of motorcycles in the world. Honda is recognized internationally for its expertise and leadership in developing and manufacturing a wide variety of products that incorporate its efficient internal combustion engine technologies ranging from small general-purpose engines to specialty sports cars. It is the second largest automaker in Japan, following Toyota Motor Corp. ( TM ).
Honda Motor currently retains a Zacks #2 Rank, which translates into a short-term (1 to 3 months) "Buy" rating. The automaker expects a revival in sales and profits in fiscal 2013, based on higher revenues, favorable model mix and effective cost reduction measures. However, it continues to face difficulties in obtaining parts from suppliers due to disaster in Japan as well as flood in Thailand. Taking these factors into account, we currently have a long-term (more than 6 months) Neutral recommendation on the stock.

TVS 2012 New Apache RTR

Overview

TVS Motor Company today (30th April, 2012) announced the launch of its new 2012 Apache Series RTR with an all new beast themed styling. The new design, with all lines pulled back, all excesses eliminated and all curves chiseled to perfection, synergizes seamlessly with a high performance powertrain to look dynamic, even when stationary. The new design and styling has been incorporated in all TVS Apachemodels namely TVS Apache RTR 160, TVS Apache RTR 180 and TVS Apache RTR 180 ABS.

New Apache RTR 180 & new Apache RTR 160 is a cosmetic upgrade, no changes has been made to the engine and other technical specifications of the bike.  The New Apache RTR 160 and RTR 180 now features bigger tank scoops, new sticker/decals all around, all-new headlamps featuring day-time running pilot lamps plus new shades will be introduced. The RTR 180 now comes with extruded Apache emblem like the Pulsar 220 range. The new Apache RTR range also features redesigned seat, side panel, crash guard, saree guard, mudguard and footpegs.

Official Statement About 2012 New TVS Apache RTR Series

“We have taken the Apache RTR to the next level with obsessive engineering and menacing design. The priority in every step of the Apache brand’s development has been race bred performance. Every system, detail and component has been tuned to maximize performance. Apache as a brand has been very well received,” H S Goindi, President-Marketing, TVS Motor Company said.

Quick List of What’s New in 2012 New TVS Apache RTR Series

- Faux carbon fiber insert on the fuel tank and around the instrumentation console
- New fuel tank scoops/faux air intakes plus new graphics
- All-new redesigned seat
- New all-metal footpegs for the pillion plus pillion footpeg mounts
- Redesigned side panels and new crash guard design
- New rear mudguard and redesigned saree guard
- Blue back-lit digital plus analogue instrument cluster

Variants of 2012 New TVS Apache RTR Series

- 2012 New TVS Apache RTR 160 (Hyoer Edge)
- 2012 New TVS Apache RTR 180
- 2012 New TVS Apache RTR 180 ABS

Engine of 2012 New TVS Apache RTR Series

- 2012 New TVS Apache RTR 160 – 15.2 bhp – 13.1 nm
- 2012 New TVS Apache RTR 180 – 17.03 bhp – 15.5 nm
- 2012 New TVS Apache RTR 180 ABS – 17.03 bhp – 15.5 nm

The engine of New TVS Apache RTR 160 (Hyper Edge) generates maxaimum power of 15.2 bhp with maximum torque of 13.1 nm. The New TVS Apache RTR 180 and 180 ABS generates maximum power of 17.03 bhp with maximum torque of 15.5 nm.

Performance Figures of 2012 New TVS Apache RTR Series (Top Speed)

- 2012 New TVS Apache RTR 160 – 118 kmph
- 2012 New TVS Apache RTR 180 – 124 kmph

Instrument Cluster of 2012 New TVS Apache RTR Series

The instrument cluster of 2012 New TVS Apache RTR 180 & Apache RTR 160 is also untouched and is same digital plus analogue combination, the only change is that it features carbon-fiber finish around the instrument console. The digital screen is blue back-lit in shade and looks awesome.

Shades Available in 2012 New TVS Apache RTR Series

- Green, Red, Yellow, Grey (Apache RTR 160 Hyper Edge)
- White, Yellow, Grey, Black (Apache RTR 180)
- White, Black (Apache RTR 180 ABS)

The new TVS Apache RTR 160 (Hyper Edge) comes in four dual tone colours, namely Green, Red, Yellow and Grey with black being the base. The new TVS Apache RTR 180 also comes in four colours of White, Yellow, Grey and Black while the ABS version is available in White and Black.

Price of 2012 New TVS Apache RTR Series

- 2012 New TVS Apache RTR 160 (Hyper Edge) – Rs. 67,500.00
- 2012 New TVS Apache RTR 180 – Rs. 72,000.00
- 2012 New TVS Apache RTR 180 ABS – Rs. 82,800.00

TVS Apache Series RTR is immediately available in TVS dealerships across the country. While the TVS Apache RTR 160 will cost Rs. 67,500 (Ex showroom Delhi), TVS Apache RTR 180 will be Rs. 72,000 (Ex showroom Delhi) and TVS Apache RTR 180 ABS will cost Rs. 82,800 (Ex showroom Delhi).

Technical Highlights of 2012 New TVS Apache RTR 180 ABS

Anti-lock Braking System technology is an integration of a HECU (Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit) and Independent Wheel Speed Sensors which help determine when a wheel is likely to get locked. When the brakes are applied hard, the wheel tends to lock. At this point, the HECU takes over instantaneously and modulates the brake pressure continuously to keep the Apache RTR 180 ABS in the most effective braking zone while ensuring precise maneuvers.

Sensors on the front and rear wheels independently monitor the speed of rotation at all times and can sense the risk of wheel lock whenever the brakes are applied. If the sensors communicate an impending wheel lock, the HECU modulates the braking pressure and prevents it, therefore reducing the risk of the rider losing control of his Apache. When the ignition is turned ‘ON’, the Apache RTR 180 ABS does an automatic self-check, which is indicated by the blinking of an LED on the console and the speed sensors monitor the wheel speed and send signals continuously to the HECU.

The Apache RTR ABS is also equipped with Rear Wheel Lift-off Protection (RLP) system which regulates deceleration when the bike is likely to lift off during emergency braking situations and takes over control, with no loss of stopping distance. With the RLP system continuously monitoring and controlling the braking, the bike gives the best stopping performance. The bike comes with an ‘ABS-Off’ switch, which disables the ABS technology, enabling the rider to showcase his capabilities on the Apache RTR, in controlled conditions. In an effort to enhance the ‘thrill of biking’ in the TVS Apache RTR 180, the company has fitted the bike with an all-new 3 phase Full DC lighting system and an efficient energy management system.

Which is best Bajaj Pulsar 150 or Hero Hunk? 2011-2012

Dear friends, here a tough battle is set to the two most powerful 150cc bikes in India. This is going to be the direct fight between Bajaj Pulsar 150 v/s Hero Hunk. So, let’s start the competition by comparing various parameters of both bikes.

Popularity

Pulsar 150 is one of the most liked bikes in India. It is almost 20 times more popular than Hunk. Every person of any age group likes Pulsar. Even girls can recognize Pulsars on road. Now you can consider this as also a negative point of Pulsar because now a days Pulsars became too common on roads. If you can see one Hunk on any Indian road, you can see twenty Pulsars on the same road.

Looks

Pulsar 150: Super sportive looks. Great work by styling department of Pulsar. Though Pulsar’s design is a decade older, it looks very sportive with so many minor treatments on its design. Its style perfectly suits for young riders. However Pulsar is very suitable for people of any age.

Hunk: Has decent looks with muscle body but not looks great when compared to Pulsar 150.

Power

Pulsar 150 delivers 14.9 bhp while Hunk delivers 14.2 bhp. So, Pulsar 150 is little bit more powerful than Hunk but there is no much difference in terms of power. Both bike has great pickup and good top speed.

Main Features

Pulsar 150 provides self start as well as kick start, Hunk provides self start only. Pulsar 150 provides only front disc brake option, Hunk provides front and rear disc brake option. Overall features are rich in Hunk than Pulsar 150.

Handling and Comfort

Even though Pulsar 150 engine is smooth, this bike becomes noisy and heated up at the top speed. Hunk does not become noisy or there is no problem of heating up even in the speed of 80 kmph. Both bikes has gas charged shocks which provides more comfort but Pulsar 150 shocks are too soft which is not good for aggressive riding. Hunk provides front and rear disc brake option and disc brakes are well equipped for more safety while Pulsar 150 provides only front disc brake option and you have to be little careful when applying it because disc brakes of Pulsar 150 is more sensitive and results in loosing balance if applied suddenly. Riding on Pulsar 150 is comfortable but pinion rider may feel little uncomfortable especially in long rides but Hunk provides maximum comfort for both rider and pinion with cushioned seats even in the long rides.

Durability and Brand Image

Hunk needs less maintenance and has more durability. Pulsar 150 has to be maintained well for using long life. Hunk has good brand image and a very good resale value.

Mileage

Hunk beats Pulsar 150 in terms of mileage also. You can expect average mileage from Hunk is 55-60 kmpl while Pulsar gives average 52-55 kmpl. So, Hunk is more fuel efficient than Pulsar 150.

So, I can say that competition ends here with the victory of Hero Hunk. Even the competition wasn’t become much fight. Hunk scores better in all aspects like handling, comfort, features, low maintenance, durability, brand name, mileage etc. Hunk looses to Pulsar 150 only in looks. If looks only matters, go for Pulsar 150 otherwise go for Hunk. Go for Hunk, if you are looking for more factors which a modern street bike must have. After all Hunk also looks great with decent looks and muscle body. Please comment your opinion.

Best Indian Bike for Looks and Mileage

Guys, here we are going to compare five most eligible and popular Indian bikes for looks and mileage. The competition is in between Yamaha FZ-S v/s Honda CB Unicorn Dazzler v/s Hero Honda 2012 New CBZ X-Treme v/s Bajaj Pulsar 150 v/s TVS Apache RTR Hyper Edge. I have rate these bikes on its various parameters like looks, mileage, power, comfort, handling, maintenance, engine smoothness, brand etc. All bikes I mentioned here are well balanced with style, power and fuel efficiency. So this is going to be the review of Best Indian Bike of 2011-2012.

Yamaha FZ-S

For: Great styling, No.1 bike for looks in this segment. Excellent pickup, fattest front and rear tires which provides further charm and awesome road grip, monoshock suspension, great handling and comfort.

Against: Very less mileage of average 40 kmpl, pinion seat is uncomfortable for long rides, sometimes splatters mud on pinion rider’s leg.

Honda CB Unicorn Dazzler

For: The main advantage of this bike is its butter smooth engine. Great handling and comfort, very well for long rides. Some other main features are monoshock suspension, rear disc brake etc. Great mileage of average 55 kmpl.

Against: This bike has designed to look sportive but failed to get the best looks, unattractive head light doom.

Hero Honda 2012 New CBZ X-Treme

For: Gas charged shocks gives more comfort on riding, great handling, great pickup, high durable, good resale value.

Against: Lesser mileage compared to Pulsar-150 and Unicorn. Average mileage is 45 kmpl.

Bajaj Pulsar 150

For: Great sportive looks. May be the design is almost a decade older but bajaj managed to make minor upgrades for its looks. Great mileage, gas charged shocks, great handling and comfort.

Against: Too common on roads.

TVS Apache RTR Hyper Edge

For: After FZ-S, the second place goes to TVS Apache for looks, awesome pickup, weight forward seating for aggressive street riding.

Against: Poor mileage of average 45 kmpl, causes back pain and wrist pain in long rides, very harsh and vibrates at high speed.

So, here we have seen many positives and negatives of five most popular bikes in India. If you further compare from the negative sides of them, Dazzler looses the competition because it lacks best looks, Pulsar looses because its too common on roads and also has some quality issues, Apache looses because of poor mileage and uncomfortable in long rides.

Now, the competition is in between FZ-S and 2012 New CBZ X-Treme. 2012 New CBZ X-Treme has got a mind blowing looks and styling, but in terms of looks and styling, no bike can beat FZ-S. The mileage of FZ-S is little bit lesser than CBZ X-Treme but this reduction of mileage is because of its fatter tires which provides excellent road grip and the best looks. So, FZ-S is going to be the Best Indian Bike for Looks and Mileage. However, every person may have their own view and dream about their bikes, I hope this article helps you to select the right bike for you.