March is the month two indigenously developed motorcycles are set to be launched - the Bajaj V and the Royal Enfield Himalayan. Both are expected to launch in the middle of the month, with deliveries of the former reportedly starting on the 23rd.
Bajaj V
The Bajaj V is an all-new motorcycle that is marketed as a premium 150 cc commuter. It is associated with the INS Vikrant, India's first Navy aircraft carrier, as the vessel's scrapped metal is used in the making of a part of the bike's fuel tank.
Also Read: Bajaj Avenger enters top 10 motorcycles in sales
The V15 is powered by the existing air-cooled 149.5 cc single-cylinder DTS-i engine, but is tuned to produce 11.8 bhp at 7,500 rpm and 13 Nm at 5,500 rpm, and is mated to a five-speed transmission. The motorcycle is reported to cost INR 63,160 (ex-showroom, Pune) and INR 72,260 (on-road, Pune). Bookings are open for INR 500.
Indirect Rivals: Yamaha SZ-RR V2.0, Honda Unicorn 150, Hero Hunk
Expected Price: INR 62,000 (ex-showroom, Delhi)
Release date: Mid-March 2016
Royal Enfield Himalayan
The Royal Enfield Himalayan is the company's first adventure tourer which will be launched as the most affordable of its kind in India. It is powered by a 411 cc air-cooled single-cylinder SOHC engine with an oil-cooler, that generates 24.5 PS at 6,500 rpm and 32 Nm at 4,000 – 4,500 rpm, and is paired with a five-speed gearbox.
Also Read: Royal Enfield Himalayan vs Mahindra Mojo – Comparo
The key characteristics of the Himalayan is its upright riding stance, raw styling, torquey engine with a low rev-range, spoke wheels, dual-purpose tyres, and provision for accessories related to touring.
Rivals: Mahindra Mojo, Benelli TNT25
Expected Price: INR 1.65-1.85 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi)
Release date: Mid-March 2016
