The Bike Chronicles of India

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I meet Mr. Rajiv Bajaj (MD, Bajaj Auto) @ Auto Expo 2008..!!
I meet my idol, Mr. Rajiv Bajaj at the Auto Expo..!!
"I heard a voice behind me which said, "Excuse Me.." I turned around and saw a tall smiling guy.

The guy then said, "Are you Satadal Payeng..??"
I know this is late, but I wanted to post about the bikes showed at the Auto Expo 2008 first, and then post about a personal experience of mine.

Just look at the pic/photo posted below.. the guy on the right is yours truly "Satadal Payeng" (thats me) and the towering figure on the left is Bajaj Auto MD, Mr. Rajiv Bajaj..!!

The Author with Mr. Rajiv Bajaj

How did I meet my idol..??

It was the 10'th of January.. which was the first day of the 9'th Auto Expo. Since the first day was reserved for the press and persons with exhibitor passes, there wasn't much of a crowd in the morning.

I was loitering around at the Bajaj Auto Pavilion, clicking pictures of the displays. After a few minutes at the Bajaj Pavilion I heard a voice behind me which said, "Excuse Me.." I turned around and saw a tall smiling guy. The guy then said, "Are you Satadal Payeng..??

I was obviously surprised but told him, "Yes.. I am Satadal Payeng, but how do you know me..?? The smiling guy said, "Hi.. I am Manish Tandon, Sr. Manager from Bajaj Auto. I know you because I read your blog..!!"

Payeng (left) with Mr. Manish Tandon (right)

As I spoke with him, I realized that Mr. Tandon knew whatever I had so far posted on "The Bike Chronicles of India". He knew that I have a Pulsar 220. He also knew that I have quit my I.T job to join a company which is related to the Auto Sector.

Boy O Boy..!! I did not know what to say.. it was indeed very flattering to know that someone from Bajaj Auto reads my blog.. and that too someone in a senior position..!!

His job as a Sr. Manager "Product Planning" demands that he should know what our "desi" bikers "Want and Need".

But how many Sr. Managers do you know, who are ready to go out of their way to interact with bikers..??
Mr. Tandon is a Sr. Manager, "Product Planning" from the ** Ahead Team. And for those who don't know, the ** Ahead Team ("Stars Ahead") is the R&D Team of Bajaj Auto..!!

We spoke about the Auto Expo and bikes among other things. When I pointed my finger to the Kawasaki Ninja 250R, Mr. Tandon asked me to quote a price, which I think would be appropriate for the Ninja 250R in India. I told him that a price between Rs. 2.0-2.5 lakhs should be just right.. in fact the lower the price tag, the better. But not above Rs. 2.5 lakhs.

Just then I saw Mr. Rajiv Bajaj come out into the Bajaj Pavilion. I asked Mr. Tandon, if Mr. Rajiv Bajaj reads my blog.. to which he said that "probably not". I was a little bit disappointed but nevertheless I told Mr. Tandon that I would love to click a photo with him (Mr. Bajaj).

Mr. Tandon then introduced me with Mr. Bajaj. I said "Hi" to him, shook his hand and asked if I could click a photo with him. He said sure..

..and that's how I got my photo with Mr. Rajiv Bajaj

Mr. Tandon interacting with some other Bikers

I had read that Mr. Bajaj is reticent and quiet guy. I did not get to speak much with him.. I would have loved to speak more with him, but then I realized that there were other important things for him to attend to. But Man..!! Never in my life could I have imagined that I would meet, shake hands and get my photo clicked with one of my Idols..!!

Unlike Mr. Bajaj, Mr. Tandon loves to interact with bikers. Of course his job as a Sr. Manager "Product Planning" demands that he should know what our "desi" bikers want and need. But how many Sr. Managers do you know, who are ready to go out of their way to interact with bikers..?? Not to mention, also care to read what a biker/blogger next door like me doodles on his online diary.

Mr. Tandon gave me his card and asked me to stay in touch with him. Thanks a lot Mr. Manish Tandon.. You made my Day..!!

[After this post, there might be some loose tongues which will "again" accuse me of being on the rolls of Bajaj Auto..!!

But, I don't give a damm to what they say.]

Related Posts:

Auto Expo 2008 Coverage:
- Auto Expo 2008: Summary of the Most Important models for the Bike Makers
Yamaha India
Bajaj Auto
TVS Motors
- Fuel Injected Apache RTR 160 "Fi" @ Auto Expo 2008
- 125 cc TVS Flame and 125 cc Yamaha Gladiator SS/RS @ Auto Expo 2008
Royal Enfield, Honda, Hero Honda, Suzuki
Mon, 28 Jan 2008 15:55:00 +0000
Auto Expo 2008: Tata "Nano" the Superstar of the 9'th Auto Expo
The Tata "Nano" was the Superstar at the Auto Expo 2008.. What does it mean to a biker..??
One cannot deny that fact that the Star Attraction of the 9’th New Delhi Auto Expo (2008) was with out any doubt Tata’s much hyped 1 Lakh Car, the Tata Nano..!!

To be there on the 10’th of January 2008, to witness the world premier of the Nano was simply crazy. The whole hall (No.10) was jam packed with every inch of space occupied as if it was piece of real estate at a prime location. The world press was there, ready to beam the first ever pics/videos of the Best Kept Automotive Secret of India. The kind of attention that the Nano got will easily rival that of a Big international celebrity.

If you were not there at Auto Expo 2008 to witness the event, then you can see the unveiling of the Nano on YouTube. Click here..

Now, why am I writing about a 4 wheeler today..??

Isn’t "The Bike Chronicles of India" supposed to be a "desi" Bike Blog..??

Well, today I write on the Tata Nano because Mr. Ratan Tata has made be a proud Indian.

This is what people thought of Mr. Ratan Tata’s dream project before the AutoExpo 2008.

"What is it going to be? A three-wheeler with a stepney?’’ Suzuki’s Founder Chairman Osamu Suzuki had quipped when Tata announced the project. In February 2006, Suzuki again took a shot, saying that it was impossible to make a reliable car for Rs 1 lakh. *

And this is what Ford’s Executive Vice-President John Parker said after the launch of the Nano.

"It is a groundbreaking product. The Nano will cause people to think differently about the car. I have a lot of respect for Tata." *

* Souce: BusinessWorld

Mr. Ratan Tata is my new hero/idol/role model along with Mr. Rajiv Bajaj

In the Tata Nano story, I see a parallel to the story of the birth of the Bajaj Pulsar.

Even in the Pulsar, it was the dream and self belief of a visionary leader (Mr. Rajiv Bajaj) which made the then seemingly impossible dream turn into a reality. Many guys might have thought that Mr. Rajiv Bajaj was acting "foolish" to dream that Indians could make a Motorcycle all by themselves which would beat the Japanese Bikes in India.

Only another great visionary like Steve Jobs can believe in something like "Stay hungry, Stay Foolish"
Similarly, virtually the whole world thought that Mr. Ratan Tata was "foolish" enough to dream that Indian engineers could produce a car at this unbelievable and unthinkable price.

"Show the world what Indian engineering is truly capable of". Ratan Tata told his bunch of young engineers. "Make me also part of the team" *.

The Pulsars have revolutionized the Indian Biking Scene and vindicated the "foolish dream" of Mr. Rajiv Bajaj, similarly the Nano has silenced the critics of Mr. Ratan Tata for good. In the process Tata engineers have managed to rewrite conventional Automobile manufacturing/assembling techniques and have even applied for 34 patents so far.

Only another great visionary like Steve Jobs can believe in something like "Stay hungry, Stay Foolish".

Two wheelers have inspired the Tata Nano

Mr. Ratan Tata got the idea of making a car for around 1 Lakh after he saw a family of 4 on a scooter. Apart from this, the Nano also has learnt a thing or two from two wheelers.

Since the project was inspired by two-wheelers, people who had worked in the two-wheeler industry were roped in, especially in sourcing. Rakesh Mital, who came from Yamaha, came up with the idea of using instrument panels similar to those in motorcycles. The panel in Nano’s dashboard was inspired by the minimalism of the clusters on the heads of motorcycles.

Ideas for suspension, cables and lamps were inspired by scooters and motorcycles. The tall-design car has McPherson struts stabilising the front and uses a suspension similar to that of motorcycles at the back to balance for a higher centre of gravity and a rear-mounted engine. *

* Souce: BusinessWorld

Will the Tata Nano eat away sales from Two Wheelers in India..??

Some market Pundits have predicted that the Nano (which will priced from around 1.2 lakhs onwards), will wean away some customers from buying two wheelers.

According to me it’s a matter open to debate and only time will tell how much the two wheeler market is going to be affected by the Tata Nano. But I would also like to air my opinions on this.

"I do not think that the Nano will affect the above 150 cc bike segment.."
I have seen a few of my friends (mostly salaried IT professionals) buy a car so that they can take around their parents/families in it. However, at the same time they also keep a bike as well. Not because they are bike enthusiasts but because a car cannot match, fuel efficiency and low running costs of a bike. And it does not make sense for my friends to take their cars everytime just for a short trip to the nearby store, office or gym.

So even if the Nano might come at a price tag of around 1.2 Lakhs, or give 20 Kmpl (as claimed), the consumer might still would not like to depart with his bike.

But it will be definitely a good thing to see a family of 4 (maybe 5 in some cases) in a car instead of on a scooter or a 100/125/150 cc bike. Personally, I do not think that the Nano will affect the above 150 cc bike segment.

Would I buy the Nano..??

Oh yes definitely.. I’ll buy one.

Why..?? I’ll probably buy it not just because I am patriotic but probably because..
- The Nano looks Cute enough to be seen in
- In a traffic congested metro like Gurgaon/Delhi, the Nano will actually be a very good choice to get around (not to mention find easy parking)
- By the time I would have grandchildren, the Nano will be remembered as a milestone in the Automotive history of India
- Right now I cannot really afford to invest in a big car
- The Nano would actually give me an excuse to get the (hopefully soon to be launched..) Ninja 250R..!!
I think the last point is valid enough for me to be writing about the Nano (a 4 wheeler) in "The Bike Chronicles of India".

Here is an excerpt from an artice on the Tata Nano by BusinessWorld:
As Tata stood modestly enjoying his success on the stage, a foreign journalist was overheard saying to another: "We are lucky to be here". The other replied, "Yes, at least we can tell our grandchildren that we were there."

Now I also can tell my grandchildren that, "I was there too..!!"

Related Posts:

Auto Expo 2008 Coverage:
- Auto Expo 2008: Summary of the Most Important models for the Bike Makers
Yamaha India
Bajaj Auto
TVS Motors
- Fuel Injected TVS Apache RTR 160 "Fi" @ Auto Expo 2008
- 125 cc TVS Flame and 125 cc Yamaha Gladiator Variants @ AutoExpo 2008
Royal Enfield, Honda, Hero Honda, Suzuki
Thu, 24 Jan 2008 16:29:00 +0000
Auto Expo 2008: Summary of the Most Important models for the Bike Makers
Lets look at which are the models that our Bike Makers are putting their money on..
Talk about "Being in the right place at the right time..!!" I am referring to me being there in flesh for the Auto Expo 2008. The New Delhi Auto Expo, which is a biannual event, has virtually become a Pilgrimage of sorts for Auto Enthusiasts of the country. I must say that, it was an experience of a lifetime for me.

Moreover, thanks this exciting new medium called “blog”, I have been able to chronicle my experiences and share it with thousands of bike enthusiasts who visit this blog. I would also like to thank to all those who have chipped in with their comments and has kept the conversation alive.
"The most attractive specimens of the two-legged kind were also strategically positioned on the turntables.."

"Displays that were kept on the turntables can be taken to be the most important models for the bike makers.."
Now that the Auto Expo 2008 is finally over, let us analyze what each bike maker has planned for us. The strategy of each bike maker can roughly be deduced from the kind of display they had put up in the Pavilion.

Let me make it simple for you by saying that, those displays that were kept on (revolving) turntables can be taken to be the most important models for the bike makers, at least for the imediate future . These are the bikes which the Bike Makers do not want you to miss at the Auto Expo. This deduction gets credibility when you observe that the most attractive specimens of the two-legged kind were also strategically positioned on the turntables.

Lets rewind and try to figure out which bikes were kept on the turn tables (and next to... whatever) and then try to make out our own deductions from it..
- Yamaha: Yamaha had the YZF-R15 and the FZ-150 on two separate turn tables with two knockouts on them.
- TVS Motors: Even if the Apache RTR 160 “Fi” was present, TVS made sure that the 125 cc Flame got the most attention at their Pavilion. Two 125 cc "Flame" bikes were kept on the turntable along with female models (what else..!!)
- Bajaj Auto: Among the two new launches at the AutoExpo, i.e. the 150 cc Discover and the XCD Sprint (with 4 Valves), Bajaj had kept just one bike on a turn table i.e. the XCD Sprint . For a change, there was no one of the fairer sex to obstruct your view (which was perfectly fine with me). However, the absence of anything higher than 220 cc (from Bajaj Auto), was a disappointment.
- Honda / Suzuki / Hero Honda: No comments. Read this instead.
- Royal Enfield: No turn tables, no female models, no (new) bikes.
So which is the bike that you are looking forward the most in 2008..??
Thu, 24 Jan 2008 05:11:00 +0000
Whats so Special about the Yamaha YZF-R15..??
There is a lot more to the Yamaha R15 than its pretty Full Fairing..
It was around 10 AM on the 10'th of January when I entered the the Auto Expo 2008. Since it was the first day of the Expo (reserved for the press and guys with Exhibitor passes) almost all the Pavilions had sparse crowds. But when I entered the Yamaha Pavilion at round 11 AM, I noticed a small gathering around a turn-table on which a bike was kept. I went closer and saw a full faired bike revolving slowly on the turn table.

My first thought was that it was a display bike from Yamaha's foreign stables. A few seconds later, I realised to my sweet surprise that the bike I was staring at wasn't a foreign bike, but Yamaha's next bike for India. It was the 150cc YZF-R15..!!

Yamaha YZF-R15 @ AutoExpo 2008
"You should probably also know these exotic tech bits have already been incorporated in bikes like the Yamaha Vixion (150 cc bikes from Indonesia) and the Yamaha T135 and the Yamaha Spark RX135i (135 cc, Liquid Cooled, Fuel Injected Step Thru from Thailand)
My first thought on seeing the R15 was, "Awesome..!!" The crowd that had gathered there was also equally mesmerized by the R15. To my amusement many guys who were busy taking snaps of the bike didn't have a clue of things like the R15 had a liquid cooled engine or had 6 gears.. but nevertheless they were all mighty impressed with the R15.

However, I cannot put the blame on anyone, because now I realize that the crowd was kind of hypnotized by the "R1" inspired front fairing. Virtually nobody could see beyond the front fairing of the R15.. at least at first sight.

To tell the truth, it was only in the photos that I realized that the side panels and the rear of the R15 isn't as impressive as the front.

Actually, there is more to the R15 than just the front fairing.

So, what else makes the R15 so special.??

Yamaha R15 Engine Cutout
Liquid Cooled Engine: As an engine runs, the temperature of the engine also rises. If the temperature of the engine rises too much, then it affects the performance of the engine. Therefore engines have some sort of cooling system for its proper functioning. There are two types of cooling systems for engines. The "air-cooling system", that uses air to cool the engine and the "liquid-cooling system" in which liquid is circulated through a system of passages around the engine to cool the engine much more effectively than "air cooling".

The R15 is India's first bike to feature liquid cooling. So far all the bikes manufactured in India have had Air Cooled engines. A liquid cooled engine means that the engine will be capable of higher performance.

4 Valves per cylinder: 2 valves per cylinder have been the common format for the engines of our "desi" bikes (the now discontinued Kinetic GF series of bikes being the expection with 3 valves per cylinder format).

Correction by First_Synn: The Kinetic GF Series had 4 valves per cylinder. The 100 cc LML "Adreno"/"Energy" bikes had 3 valves per cylinder layout

The R15 will have 4 valves for its single cylinder engine. Can't exactly call it a first for India, because even Bajaj has shown the new 125 cc XCD "Sprint", which also has 4 valves. Since engines with 4 valves per cylinder usually produce most of their power at high RPM, we can expect a high revving engine in the R15.

Fuel Injection: This is also a feature that is not a first for India. The 125 cc Hero Honda Glamour "Fi", the Pulsar 220 DTS-Fi and the soon to be launched TVS Apache RTR 160 "Fi" already has fuel injection. However, Yamaha in its website says that the R15 will have a Fuel Injection with "6 hole injectors". So far, I have seen that "Fuel Injection" does not quite boost up the Power of a bike by a significant margin but it does improve the response of the engine. So expect good throttle response from the R15.

Forged Piston: The pistons made for most engines are cast pistons, it is made by melting aluminum at high temperatures and pouring it into molds. The other type of piston is this forged type, which is made by forcing aluminum that has been heated to a certain "sub-melting" temperature into a mold under pressure.

Because the aluminum alloy does not reach the melting point in this forged piston production method, it retains a stronger metallurgic quality. For this reason, forged pistons can be made with a thinner, lighter body.

But there are difficulties in maintaining precise temperature and other factors in the "forging" process. Due to which such pistons are expensive to produce. In 1997, Yamaha developed a "controlled forging technology" (CF technology) that enabled production of the forged pistons at a lower cost. These pistons are now used on Yamaha's R series supersport models.

DiASil Engine Cylinder: The Engine Cylinder is that part of the engine inside which the Piston moves. Air cooled engines have fins on the cylinder to increase the cooling process.

"DiASil" is an abbreviation for "Die-casting Aluminum-Silicon". In case of the R15 it is an all-aluminum cylinder which uses a 20% silicon aluminum alloy.

Conventional engine cylinders have a steel liner to reduce the friction resulting from the piston's movement. The "DiASil" cylinder is made by the exclusive Yamaha Aluminum Controlled Forging (CF) technology.

Because the "DiASil" Cylinder is all aluminum, it has excellent heat dissipation qualities and reduces engine weight at the same time. (Aluminum dissipates heat at 3.1 times the rate of steel.) The DiASil cylinder has 60% better cooling performance at 30% lower manufacturing cost and enables 30% lighter design.

Find more about DiASil Cylinder here..

"Link Type" Monoshock rear Suspension: The only motorcycle with a rear monoshock in India is the Honda Unicorn. But the monoshock of the Unicorn is the most basic of monoshock suspensions. The Yamaha R15 has a superior set up called the "Link Type" monoshock suspension.

Read more about Motorcycle Suspensions here..

"Delta" Frame: The R15 has a frame that is different from the normal single or twin downtube motorcycle frames seen in the present bikes in India. The "Delta Frame" of the R15 also can be found on the R series of Yamaha bikes. Apart from giving the bike the looks of a sports bike, the "Delta Frame" also has an excellent rigidity balance which should give the R15 a very sporty handling characteristic.

6 Gears: And Oh Yes.. the R15 also has 6 gears, a first for India (if you discount the legendary RD350 of course)

Front and Rear Disc Brakes: The R1 features disc brakes for both the front and rear.

According to Yamaha these features of the Yamaha R15 have been incorporated from the DNA of its high performance racing bikes like the R1. This is not exactly untrue since the R series of bikes from Yamaha actually do feature parts like these.

But what you should probably also know that exotic tech bits like these have already been incorporated in bikes like the Yamaha Vixion (150 cc bikes from Indonesia) and the Yamaha T135 and the Yamaha Spark RX135i (135 cc, Liquid Cooled, Fuel Injected Step Thru from Thailand).

So is the Yamaha R15 a harbinger of good things to come for "desi" bikers..??
I certainly think so..!! Things can only get better for the "desi" biker from here.

One have to applaud Yamaha India for trying to push the envelope of the "desi" biking scene. But with accumulating losses since 2001, Yamaha India did not have much of a choice. Its "Better late than never" for Yamaha Motors India

Related Posts:
Sun, 20 Jan 2008 16:40:00 +0000
Auto Expo 2008 Coverage: Royal Enfield
Royal Enfield Pavilion @ Auto Expo 2008..
Royal Enfield had no new motorcyle models to display at the Auto Expo 2008. Instead the R.E pavilion at the Auto Expo had two "real" bikes on display and a few "real" Royal Enfield riders who were there to interact with the crowd.

Initially I did not get what Royal Enfield was trying to promote at the Auto Expo 2008. I went closer and saw that apart from the two bikes, there were two tents set up which had sleeping bags in them.

I realized that they were trying to create the image of "The Trip". I also saw that the enfield riders were ready to talk to anyone about their real life experiences on their steel steeds.

A catalog was being distributed, which contained the details of the motorcycle models which Royal Enfield sells in India. They were also distributing a leaflet, which contained the road map of the places around delhi.. in case anyone wanted to join the "The Trip".

My friend Kenny (a Bullet Rider) @ the R.E pavilion

There were no models of the fairer sex clad in body hugging outfits, there were no dance routines, in fact there were no new bikes on display. Many guys would think "What the hell was Royal Enfield doing at the Auto Expo..??"

I asked one of the guys about the theme of their display, and the told me that they were there "to spread the spirit of Riding".

One of the things that prevent me from riding a bullet if my 5 ft 5 inch height. So when I saw that a petite lady (in the first photo) who is about 5 ft 2 inches ride a thunderbird with a slightly scooped seat, I was visibly impressed. When I spoke to her, she told me that if she could ride it, so could I.

Maybe after a few years I would like to settle down with a Royal Enfield Bullet.

Sat, 19 Jan 2008 09:34:00 +0000
Auto Expo 2008 Coverage: Yamaha YZF-R15 based on the Vixion from Indonesia. [Wallpaper]
Meet the Indonesian Yamaha Vixion, the model on which the Yamaha YZF-R15 is probably based..

Yamaha YZF-R15 Wallpaper
Size: 1280 X 1024
22 June, 2007: Economic Times carries the news that Yamaha India has plans of a 4 Valve, around 14 bhp, 150 cc with looks similar to the R1.

23 June, 2007: The Bike Chronicles of India posts that the proposed 150 cc from Yamaha India MIGHT be the 4 Valve, Liquid Cooled, 150 cc.. Yamaha Vixion from Indonesia

28 June, 2007: The Bike Chronicles of India posts a few pics of the Yamaha Vixion of Indonesia.

10 January, 2008: Yamaha India shows the YZF-R15 for India @ AutoExpo 2008.

Look closely at the pics of the Indonesian Vixion posted below and it will be clear that the YZF-R15 is based on the Vixion from Indonesia.

The R1 like full front fairing and the clip on handle bars have done wonders to the looks of the R15 giving it a mini R1 like look. The Delta Frame has been finished in black for the Indian R-15, also the design of the Exhaust can of the R15 is new. Observe carefully and you will notice that the Kick starter has also been done away on the R-15.

Yamaha Vixion

Yamaha YZF-R15

It is obvious from the above pics that the rear portion of the two bikes look very much similar. Accrding to me, a slight change in the rear, especially the tail lights should have been incorporated in the R-15.

About the Engine:

Economic Times had reported (in 22 June 2007) that the 150 cc from Yamaha was planned to have around 14 bhp.. and right now there is a buzz around that the bhp figures of the R-15 might be around 20-22 bhp..!!

Tech Specs of the 150 cc Yamaha Vixion: Source- Yamaha Motor Indonesia

149.7 C.C, 4 Stroke

Liquid Cooled

Single Cylinder

4 Valves

Power: 11.10 kw (14.88 HP or 15.09 PS) / 8,500 rpm

Torque: 13.10 nm (1.34 Kgf.m)/ 7,500 rpm

Compression Ratio: 10.4 : 1

The usual practice for India bound engines is to detune them from their international specs. This is done to boost the fuel efficiency and also to cope with the relatively poor quality of fuel sold in India.

Since it looks like Yamaha India guys are not looking at fuel efficiency, the question remains how much more (bhp) can the R-15 produce than the Vixion engine.

Auto Expo 2008 Coverage: High Resolution Pic/Photo of the Yamaha YZF-R15 [Wallpaper]
High Resolution Picture/Photo of the Yamaha YZF-R15 taken @ Auto Expo 2008
Yamaha YZF-R15

Will this bike make 20-22 bhp..??

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 12:26:00 +0000
Auto Expo 2008 Coverage: Kawasaki Ninja 250R in Bajaj Probiking Showrooms soon..!!
Kawasaki Ninja 250R coming to your Bajaj Probiking Showroom.. Soon..!!
A Baby Ninja (250R) was strategically placed in the center and ahead from all the other Kawasaki products displayed at the Bajaj Pavilion.

If that's not hint enough, then a senior Bajaj Official present in the Pavilion told me that chances of the 2008 Ninja 250R coming to India is pretty high..!!

Isn't she a sight for sore eyes..??

Of late everything has been falling into place for me..
In one sentence, "Life is beautiful..!!

Just take a peek at three of my posts made in October 2007.. "Nostradamus" couldn't have done a better job I'd say.
- 2008 Kawasaki Ninja 250R..!! Bring this one to India please [October 14, 2007]
- I’d rather ride a 250-400 cc slowly through a pothole, than “Day Dream” of riding the R1 on the Golden Quadrilateral..!! [Oct 27, 2007]
- 30 BHP, 250 cc, Twin Cylinder Bikes are for Ladies..!! [Oct 28, 2007]
I still maintain that 250 cc, twin cylinder bikes are for ladies.. but considering my financial constraints, I can't think of a better way to age gracefully and lose the rest of my hair.

The Price hasn't been decided yet but the Ninja 250R is expected to appear in India by Mid 2008.

By the way, the 2008 Ninja is manufactured in Thailand and sold for $ 3,500 in the U.S. So if Bajaj could get the the Ninja 250 in "CKD" (Completely Knocked Down) or "SKD" (Semi Knocked down) kits (to ease the custom duties), then we could probably get the Ninja 250R for anywhere between 2.0 - 2.5 lakhs.

Tech Specs of the 2008 Ninja 250R sold in the U.S.A:
- Engine: Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, parallel twin
- Displacement: 249cc
- Maximum power : 32PS (31.56 hp) at 11,000rpm
- Maximum torque: 21.7Nm at 10,000rpm
- Cooling: Liquid
- Carburetion: Keihin CVK30 x 2
  (The European 2008 Ninja 250R features "Fuel Injection" instead of Carburetion and produces slighty lesser peak power of 30 Ps)
- Transmission: Six-speed
- Final drive: O-ring chain
- Frame: Semi-double cradle, high-tensile steel
- Wheelbase: 1390mm(NA Model) - 54.72 in
- Front suspension / wheel travel: 37mm hydraulic telescopic fork
- Rear suspension / wheel travel: Uni-Trak with aluminum linkage / Preload Adjustable
- Front tire: 110/70-17
- Rear tire: 130/80-17
- Front brake: Single 290mm hydraulic petal disc with two-piston caliper
- Rear brake: Single 220mm petal disc with two-piston caliper
- Overall length: 2080mm
- Overall width: 710mm
- Overall height: 1115mm
- Seat height: 780mm
- Dry weight: 151kg
- Fuel capacity: 18 liters
- Color choices: Lime Green, Ebony, Passion Red, Candy Plasma Blue
- Price (for U.S): $3,499
Tue, 15 Jan 2008 08:38:00 +0000
Auto Expo 2008 Coverage: Bajaj to Bring in Kawasaki Ninja 250R and KTM Bikes..!!
Exotic Bikes from KTM and Kawasaki will soon grace the Bajaj Probiking Showrooms..!!
The Bajaj Auto Pavilion had three Zones: The Orange Zone for KTM Bikes, Blue and White Zone for Bajaj Bikes and Green Zone for Kawasaki bikes. Hey.. isn't that color combo quite similar to out National Flag..??

It is almost confirmed that Two Bikes from KTM (the Duke 690 and the RC8) and the one from Kawasaki (the 2008 Ninja 250R) has been culled out for an India launch..!!

Details to be covered in subsequent posts.. till then enjoy the Pics..!!

Bajaj Pavilion had an all Chrome Panels and Back Body Pulsar 220 on display

KTM Branded Biking Stuff will be available in Probiking Outlets..!!

Ninja 250 headed for India..!!

[To be Continued..!!]

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 15:34:00 +0000
Auto Expo 2008 Coverage: TVS Apache RTR 160 "Fi" & Of the Shelf Performance Kit for the RTR 160..!! [Wallpapers]
TVS shows its Fuel injected Apache RTR 160 Fi and an Apache RTR variant with Performance Enhancing Race Kit..!!
No TVS did not show the rumoured 180 cc/200 cc Apache RTR (never believed in rumours in the first place) at the Auto Expo.

TVS Apache RTR 160 "Fi":

But TVS did show the Fuel Injected Apache RTR 160 "Fi".. there were two Apache RTR "Fi"'s kept in the TVS Pavilion.

1024 X 768 Wallpaper Size
TVS Apache RTR 160 Fi
One was a Red and the other a Yellow Color. My first impression on the first day was that there were two variants of the Fuel Injected RTR that was being launched. But on the second visit to the Auto Expo, a TVS guy standing there told me that only one variant similar to the Red one will finally be produced (the Yellow RTR Fi did not have tank scoops/extensions and rear disc brakes).

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TVS Apache RTR 160 Fi

The Red Apache RTR 160 Fi had tank extensions and a rear disc brake to differentiate itself from the carburetted Apache RTR variant. The pattern of the stripe running down the bike is also slightly different from the non-Fi variant.

Expect the RTR "Fi" to come into TVS dealerships very soon. When inquired about the price of the RTR-"Fi", I was pleasantly surprised to hear that it will be just Rs. 5000 over the non-Fi variant. I don't know whether to believe that or not because apart from the Fuel Injection there is also a rear disc brake in the package.

The Fuel Injection hasn't really bumped up the power output of the Apache RTR, but I hope that it should bring down the disturbing vibrations which plauge the Apache RTR 160. The Tech specs of the TVS Apache RTR 160 Fi is posted below..

TVA Apache RTR 160 with "Race Performace Kit"..!!

Now if you already own the Apache RTR, this is definitely going to put a BIG smile on your face.

TVS will soon make available Performance Enhancing Kits which can be bought off the shelf from TVS dealers and fit on your existing Apahce RTR 160 bike.

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TVS Apache RTR 160 with Race Performance Kit

The "Race Performce Kit" as TVS likes to call it consists of a Free Flow Exhaust (shown here as Chrome tipped), and some changes in the valves, spark plugs (shown with yellow spark plug cover to differentiate) and the cylinder (according to the TVS guy present there). The modifications will result in an bhp increse from around 15 something to 18.5 BHP..!!

Update: (14'th Jan 08, 21:00 hrs) Just now I got the news from my Boss (he owns/rides an Apache RTR 160..!!) who has just returned from the Auto Expo 08 that the RACE PERFORMANCE KIT IS NOT STEET LEGAL..!!

According to my Boss, the TVS guy at the Expo told him that the Kit can be bought from the Showrooms and used at your own risk on the street. It seems the kit is mainly meant for races.

SIGH..!!

The premium for the Race Perfornmance Kit as told to me should be around Rs. 8,000 (I forgot to ask whether labor charges are included in it too).

If you have an Apache RTR 160 and ready to spend around Rs. 8K more on it, then you can probably ask some intresting questions to the Karizma and the Pulsar 200 and 220. But in the process you might also bring down he resale value of your Apache RTR..

So what do you say..??

[P.S: There was no news about any Race Performance Kit for the Fuel Injected RTR "Fi"]

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 11:30:00 +0000
Auto Expo 2008 Coverage: TVS Flame and 2008 Gladiator [Wallpaper]
125 cc bikes from TVS and Yamaha at the Auto Expo 2008..
TVS Flame: (Max Power: 10.5 bhp)

"Flame" the new 125 cc bike from TVS Motors was placed in the center of the TVS Motor Pavilion in the Auto Expo 2008. This goes to show how much attention TVS Motors is showering on their latest 125 cc bike.

There was a RED and a Yellow Flame displayed prominently at the TVS Pavilion. Posted below are two wallpaper sized pics of the Yellow TVS Flame.

125 cc TVS Flame
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Previously I had commented that the new 125 cc Bajaj XCD Sprint DTSi looks better than the Flame. But after you look at the Flame, you will find that the Flame now appears to be a better looker..

The looks and new design elements of the Flame was published in an earlier post. There is also a unique storage space on the tank of the Flame. In flesh the Flame looks bigger than a 125 cc bike and in the league of a 150 cc bike. The Flame should be able to accomodate 6 footer guys easily.

According the the TVS guys present at the Expo, the Flame should be available very soon at TVS dealers across the country.

125 cc TVS Flame
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Yamaha Gladiator SS/RS: (Max Power: 11 Ps)

Yamaha India has shown a few variants of its 125 cc Gladiator at the Auto Expo 2008. The Gladiator SS (Stylish & Sporty) and the Gladiator RS (Racing Sports).

Do not go by the fancy acronyms for they are just cosmetic upgrades with the tech specs remaining identical.

There was another variant of the Gladiator kept in the Auto Expo (Pic posted below). It did not have any special name/initial on it, so can't really say whether this particular variant will make it to the showrooms or not. But I kind of liked the color combination on this one more than the SS/RS variants.

125 cc Yamaha Gladiator
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The Bajaj XCD Sprint DTSi looks freaky with its sharp looks but I have to say that the XCD also looks smaller compared to the Flame or the Gladiator. The small size might have a positive effect on the Power to weight ratio but might put off someone looking for a generous sized 125 cc machine.

On the other hand, the TVS Flame and and the Yamaha Gladiator have generous propositions which give it a more mature look.

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 09:28:00 +0000
Auto Expo 2008 Coverage: Yamaha FZ-150 Sexy "Prototype" from Yamaha India
Yamaha India shows a Ultra Sexy Prototype called the FZ-150 in Auto Expo 2008.. Will this one make into production..??

The Yamaha FZ-150 "Prototype" shown @ the Auto Expo 2008

I have to apologize, since I am a bit late to cover this stunner called the FZ-150 which Yamaha India showed in Auto Expo 2008. This one is a "Prototype" which Yamaha India has conjured up by taking the DNA of the 1000 C.C FZ1...

But my lethargy was due to the fact that I wanted to cover those bikes first, which are production ready. The memory of the Yamaha Gladiator 150-165 cc "Prototype" is still fresh in my mind. The Gladiator 150-165 cc "Prototype" was another concept which was shown in Auto Expo 2006 but sadly never saw the light of the day. The other Yamaha product shown at the Auto Expo 2008, the YZF-R15 seems almost production ready and therefore I chose to cover that before the FZ-150.

The only change that Yamaha India needs to make in the FZ-150 is change the rear tyres from the impossibly fat (for a 150 cc) to normal ones for a 150 cc bike..
The FZ-150 "Prototype" shown in the Auto Expo 2008 has a 150 cc engine, carburettor (instead of fuel injection), fat rear tyres (about as big as Pulsar 200/220 rear tyres), air cooled engine (not liquid cooled like the YZF-R15), 5 speed gearbox (insted of a 6 speed one on the YZF-R15) and also the FZ-150 doesn't have the "delta" frame of the YZF-R15.

[Photo Credit for the last Pic: Ken Cool from XBHP.Com]

Maybe the only change that Yamaha India needs to make in the FZ-150 is change the rear tyres from the impossibly fat (for a 150 cc) to the ones found on the Pulsar 150's and the Apache's. Apart from the tyre change the looks of the FZ-150 should be left untouched.

The FZ-150 would look stunning even without that leggie "firangi" model on it. I don't see a reason as to why Yamaha India shouldn't launch it. The FZ-150 easily will easily overshadow the Pulsar, Apache RTR, CBZ Xtreme or the Hunk in the looks department.

And if performance if the name of the game, then the YZF-R15 should take care of it.

On inquiring about when can we expect the FZ 150 to appear in the market, the Yamaha Officials at the Auto Expo said that they had no clue. I just hope that the FZ-150 isn't just a "Prototype" but a mass production model to compete with the Pulsar 150, Apache RTR 150, CBZ X's and the Hunks.. and leave the YZF-R15 to take the niche position as the 150 cc performance king

Sun, 13 Jan 2008 14:59:00 +0000
Auto Expo 2008 Coverage: Bajaj Discover 150 DTSi [Pics/Photos/Images] + Wallpaper
Pics of the Bajaj Discover 150 DTSi..
Bajaj displays the Discover 150 DTSi at the Auto Expo 2008.. According to the Bajaj officials present there the new DTSi of the new 150 cc Discover will produce around 14.1 bhp maximum power. Launch of this new 150 cc Discover will most probably be in the 2'nd quarter of 2008 (i.e around June-July 2008). Price has yet not been decided.

Discover 150 DTSi Wallpaper
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Except for the tank the Discover has completely new body panels along with a new design of the headlamp. The Discover 150 also features integrated blinkers on the scoops/extensions on the tank. After the 125 cc TVS Flame, the Discover is the second bike to feature integrated turn indicators on the tank extensions.

Discover 150 DTSi Wallpaper
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The headlamp design is new and so is the LED Tail lamp. The Discover 150 also features a Digital Speedometer similar to the one seen on the XCD Sprint DTSi.

Although the bodywork is new, the 150 cc Discover looks very much similar to its present 135 cc cousin. It is because of the shape of the tank which hasn't been touched. Also unlike the Discover 135 which has an all black paint to its alloys and engine covers, the Discover 150 DTSi displayed at the Auto Expo features a silver paint scheme to its alloys and enigne. The exhaust is in matt back though and the chain guard also features an interesting black and silver design.

Sun, 13 Jan 2008 10:30:00 +0000
Auto Expo 2008 Coverage: Updates on these bikes coming soon..
The following bikes (displayed in the Auto Expo 2008) will be covered in detail in posts to come.. have a sneek peek
The odds of getting to see the 2008 Kawasaki Ninja 250R in Bajaj Probiking Showrooms is pretty high..!!

Two Variants for the TVS Apache RTR Fi

Bajaj Discover 150 DTSi

Yamaha Gladiator gets a facelift

Fri, 11 Jan 2008 08:30:00 +0000
Auto Expo 2008 Coverage: Bajaj Auto [New XCD DTSi Sprint + Wallpaper]
Bajaj Auto responds to the TVS Flame and how...!! The XCD DTSi Sprint will be the Most Powerful 125 cc in the Indian Two Wheeler Market..!!

Bajaj XCD Sprint DTSi
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Just as TVS gets ready to launch its three valve 125 cc Flame, Bajaj is preparing to launch a 4 Valve DTS-i (its Digital Twin Spark Plug technology) based 125 cc XCD Sprint DTS-i..!!

The sprint has been designed to excite the 100-125 cc customer who is also looking for some "Speed-Masti". I was lucky to speak to the Brand Manager of the XCD who was present there today. The Max Power of the XCD Sprint DTS-i as told to me by him would be 12.5 BHP..!!

Which means that the XCD Sprint will be the new Performance King in the 125 cc segment, overtaking the (11 BHP) Yamaha Gladiator..!!

The launch of this product according to the brand manager of the XCD would be in the first quarter of 2008. That means roughly by March-April 2008.

Not only the XCD would be the most powerful in its class, I found the new XCD Sprint to be better and more radical looking than its rival, the TVS Flame.

Except for the tank, the front mudguard and the turn blinkers, the XCD features a completely new bodywork.

The tank has attractive extensions which has a classy chrome strip running across its length. The top portion of the tank has a matt black plastic design element to it. The XCD Sprint DTSi has Gas Filled "Nitrox" shock absorbers, front disc brakes, a new digital speedometer and the back lit switches (with auto cancel turn indicators), which have also been taken from the bigger Pulsars.

The side and tail panels are new and the footrests now are on an aluminium subframe. The XCD Sprint DTSi also features split rear grab rails and an exposed chain with a half chain cover. The XCD Sprint DTSi also gets a new handlebar with weighted bar ends.

The "Freaky" LED Tail Lamp of the XCD Sprint DTSi

The Headlamp is a Work of Art and so is the "Sexy" looking LED Tail Light assembly. The whole package manages to give the XCD a "freaky" character.

The only sore thumb in the entire visual package according to me is the old-chrome fuel filler lid.

The complete specs of the 125 cc XCD Sprint DTSi will soon be published..

Keep Posted.

Thu, 10 Jan 2008 15:40:00 +0000

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