Another action-packed week went by and we witnessed several interesting happenings in the two-wheeler industry. From the launch of Benelli’s first BS6 model to the Suzuki Gixxer series becoming more expensive, there was a lot to keep a track of. But in case you missed out any of these stories, here’s a quick round-up of the top five two-wheeler updates from the last week.
The BS6 model of Honda’s sporty commuter, the X-Blade, has been introduced at a starting price of Rs 1,06,786 for the single disc model. This is a hefty premium Rs 17,000 over its BS4 counterpart. It has also been introduced in a dual disc variant which costs Rs 1,10,968. While the styling and cycle parts of the bike have remained unaltered, its 162.7cc mill now features fuel-injection and makes 13.5bhp and 14.7Nm. Honda has also added a new feature in the form of an engine start/stop switch.
Benelli Imperiale 400 BS6 launched
Benelli rode in its first BS6-compliant offering, the Imperiale 400 BS6, in India at Rs 1.99 lakh. That’s a premium of Rs 20,000 over its BS4 version which appears unjustifiable as the changes are limited to the engine only. The revised 374cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled motor churns out 20.7bhp and 29Nm which is the same as before. The new pricing has widened the gap between the Imperiale and its closest rival, the Royal Enfield Classic 350, which is available at a starting price of Rs 1.60 lakh.
Suzuki Gixxer models prices hiked
Suzuki’s entire Gixxer line-up including the 155cc and 250cc models received a price hike in the last week. All the models have become more expensive by around Rs 2,000. While the Gixxer BS6 naked offering costs Rs 1.14 lakh, its fully-faired SF trim has been pegged at Rs 1.21 lakh. Meanwhile, the Gixxer 250 BS6 and the SF 250 BS6 are now priced at Rs 1.65 lakh and Rs 1.76 lakh, respectively. Rest of the aspects of the bikes remain unchanged.
Hero Xpulse 200 BS6 new accessories revealed
Hero has introduced four new seat cover options for its adventure motorcycle, the Xpulse 200 BS6. To be available in Modern, Tourer, Adventure and Dual Tone options, the seat covers differ in terms of design and colour. The company has also revealed a dedicated Xpulse-branded helmet which boasts of a motocross styling. Prices of the accessories haven't been revealed yet. In fact, Hero is yet to announce the prices of the Xpulse 200 BS6 in India.
Opinion: Yamaha Tenere 700 perfect for India
The entry-level adventure motorcycle buyers are deprived of many options to move up slightly in the displacement ladder in India. And we think this is where the Yamaha Tenere 700 would make the most sense if the Japanese bike maker brings it to our country. In fact, we believe it would be the perfect middle-weight adventure bike for the Indian market. To read the elaborated reason for the same, click on the story link.
(All prices are ex-showroom)
