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TVS launches MAX 4R the 110cc Utility Bike

Tuesday, July 27th, 2010

TVS motors came with re-launch of its MAX 4R the commuter segment utility motorbike on July 10, 2010 in Indore.

Max 4R comes after little tweaking from its predecessor MAX 100R which was actually a hit amongst the two-stroke motorbikes way back in the 90’s. Due to the stringent emission norms the bike under this segment had a natural death early this decade, but TVS will not want to lose its Max 100R fans.

The Chennai-based auto maker was smart enough to get the pulse that MAX 100R had caught the sense and the purpose of its rural customers. Its never-say-die attitude has given a fresh lease of life for the utility bike. The MAX 4R is obviously in its all-new avatar; the first big thing is that the TVS has adopted a 4-stroke, 110cc engine from its other hit model the TVS Star City which generates a maximum power of 8 bhp and 8.3 Nm of torque.

The MAX 4R is re-launched largely because of one vital reason- the demand in the rural areas for a simple yet cheeky bike that comes with an unbeatable price advantage. And based on the requirement of the rural customers, the bike definitely oozes simplicity. To testify the fact, the bike will not make it in the good-looking bikes category for sure, with absolutely no stylized features and the 4-speed gearbox is also another example to prove the fact.

Still surprising fact is that the new TVS Max4R bike is designed to carry a load of 200 kilos over long distances (perfect for small farmers to carry their small loads to market yards).

Although simple, the MAX 4R is practical by every sense of the word with comfortable seats, powerful headlamps, the shock absorbers enable to have a reasonably less uncomfortable ride in tough/no roads. The engine and the gearbox are supposed to give the rider ultimate fuel efficiency.
Besides the rear seat is detachable (to make room to carrying small loads) and four shock absorbers should make you at least not scream in pain for the bumpy ride that is expected in villages. The bike is fitted with 130mm drum brakes both at the front and the rear, and bike sports indicator and wheel guards; making it perfect VFM bike.

The TVS MAX 4R is priced about Rs. 37,590 (ex-showroom Indore) and will cost you roughly about 40,000 on road. So the MaxR is not an expensive vehicle when you consider its advantages and popularity.

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Highlights of TVS Motors products at the New Delhi Auto Expo Show 2010

Wednesday, January 20th, 2010

TVS Motors one of India’s leading two-wheeler companies introduced its new hybrid vehicles in the Auto Expo at New Delhi. It was eight hybrid two wheelers and five auto rickshaws from the TVS group. The display of vehicles from the TVS Motors was clearly evident of the companies’ serious efforts to provide technologies that are braced with cleaner, environment-friendly and highly efficient vehicles.

TVS’ product introduction also suggests that it is the company’s strong step towards promoting green technologies to achieve considerable reduction in the CO2 levels.

TVS Motors is also the company that has the credit of being the first automobile maker to have commercially produced the electric vehicles. The fundamental principle of these hybrid vehicles is to reduce emissions and improve the fuel efficiency.

Hybrid-TVS King
The Hybrid-TVS King is one of a kind in the 3-wheeler category; it is a plug-in 3 CNG vehicle and the unique feature of his 3-wheeler is the axial flux motor, which is connected with engine to enable power guidance while accelerating the vehicle. This technology helps the CNG engine and also lowers the emission levels to a great extent. The Hybrid King is supposed to bring down the CO2 emission level by 22% and the HC+NOX will be reduced by 20%. The power drive is supported with a smart micro controller, which serves in recuperating the energy that is generated while accelerating and braking with the process of regenerative charging. The micro controller is a powerful mechanism that also controls the energy produced by the battery & CNG so as to manage the CO2 emission efficiently. The micro controller serves as a battery SOC monitor and also preserves energy by deactivating the power points.

TVS Streak Hybrid
The Streak Hybrid in the two-wheeler category basically draws power from two sources- the 4-stroke engine and an electric motor and that means the vehicle will be available in electric as well as engine mode. The power sources will function at the choice of the rider and it will be operated based on the mode selected: Electric option alone (for those quickie trips and no fuel consumption); just the engine mode (when the battery charge is run out and/or low); hybrid electric option (using engine and battery) and the hybrid power mode (to generate good acceleration).

The other advantage in the TVS Streak Hybrid is the smart use of energy; the mechanism is devised in such a way that when the brakes are applied the battery gets charged and the power is utilized only if there is a requirement. The energy is conserved while the vehicle is static, especially when you halt in the traffic. The vehicle is user friendly too; if you choose to ride the vehicle over a short distance or for zero-fuel consumption then you can simply select the electric mode. If the battery SOC is considerably low then go for engine mode. In the hybrid electric mode the two power sources function in accordance to the programmed strategy and both the engine and electric sources work in tandem if you choose the hybrid engine mode that enables better acceleration.

TVS QUBE 2.0
The TVS 2.0 scooter will sure be a tough competitor in the days to come rather once it is officially launched. The same engine that is found in TVS Pep+ powers the QUBE 2.0 but this one comes with an electric motor and it is supposed to be on the similar lines of the award-winning concept-QUBE. The rumours doing the rounds regarding this new scooter is that it will be launched sometime in 2010. The look of the scooter is certainly a fresh breeze and is also very compact. And yes the scooter emphasizes on the green technology and represents the company’s move to produce eco-friendly vehicles. The technology employed for this vehicle ensures 30% reduction of CO2 emission, which in turn increases 30% fuel economy.

Other TVS vehicles showcased in the Auto Expo
TVS Motors also showcased their recently rolled out two-wheelers that included the auto-clutch bike TVS Jive, TVS WEGO, TVS Apache RTR 180, TVS Flame DS, TVS Scooty Streak and also the Apache RTR 180 with ABS technology were displayed. The other attractions of the Expo from TVS Motors were RTR 250 FX and TVS Hammerhead (an ATV quad bike), which were true representations of the company’s engineering expertise.

The green technologies adopted by TVS’ hybrid electric vehicles promise reduced emissions to the extent of 30% reduction in CO2 emissions as well as improved fuel economy.

The Chennai-based auto maker seems to be working hard to adopt the greener technologies to the maximum extent possible to benefit the mankind in the long run while not deviating off from the bike riders’ interests. No wonder the TVS stall at the recently concluded New Delhi Auto Expo received huge visitors and was a big hit.

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Bajaj Pulsar 180 DTSi or TVS Apache RTR 180 – which is better bike between the two?

Monday, January 18th, 2010

Bajaj Pulsar 180 DTSi or TVS Apache RTR 180 – which is better bike between the two?

The two biggies of the auto market and Bajaj and TVS are head-to-head to strengthen their position in the two-wheeler market and so do the two models; Bajaj Pulsar 180 DTSi and TVS Apache RTR 180, seem to go neck to neck when it comes market share and they seem to be going in the right direction of changing the perspective of bike riding.

In terms of sales Pulsar 180 DTSI is much ahead of the Apache RTR 180 but TVS has left no stone unturned and has been a strong competitor to Bajaj. One of the important differences between the machines is that Apache is a modified version of Apache 160 and Pulsar 180 has many similarities to Pulsar 200. The two manufacturers have been not been spoilsports despite the legal entanglement they have managed to sustain in the market with not much of a mud slinging. A comparative analysis of the Pulsar 180 DTSi and Apache RTR 180 will help the reader choose their hottie.

Engine
The TVS Apache RTR sports a 177.4 cc four-stroke air-cooled single cylinder engine along with a SOHC 2 valve mill. The power generation is close to 17.3 PS at 8500 rpm and the maximum torque is 15.5 NM at 6500 rpm. The engine is supported with the Mikuni BS-29 carburettor.

The Pulsar 180 DTSi is braced with 178.6cc 4-stroke air-cooled single cylinder with SOHC 2 valve mill, which is very similar to the Apache 180. The power output is 17.2 PS @ 8500 rpm and the torque is 14.2 NM. Pulsar goes with the UCD 29 carburettor.

The engine capacity of the two bikes is more or less the same but the difference lies with vibration effect; Pulsar is far more superior in this regard and in Apache 180 the vibrations is quite evident despite the fact that it is has been considerably reduced but this drawback gives a minus point to Apache RTR 180. But Apache compensates this disadvantage with the smooth performance of the clutch, which feels quite heavy in Pulsar and the brand has hardly learnt any lessons to improve the assembly of the clutch.

Handling and comfort
With regard to handling definitely Apache RTR 180 deserves thumbs up, and it is certainly ahead of the Bajaj Pulsar 180. Apache RTR 180’s new wheelbase of 1326mm makes it rather comfortable and stable while cornering. The Apache RTR 180 gives a smooth handling even at great speeds and steering the vehicle at steep turns is awesome and will motivate you to ride for a few more extra miles.

Do not worry about the potholes while you are riding Apache 180, as the bike is a smoothie in this regard and your ride will not be all that bumpy at all.

Pulsar DTSi 180 is not bad in terms of handling and of course they have improved tremendously as compared to its predecessors and it still finishes off as the last contender in the league. Pulsar though scores a brownie point here with its MRF nylogrip zappers and TVS Apache RTR sports the Srichakra tyres. Adorned with MRF tyres and the upgraded swing arm it makes a huge difference to the handling of the Pulsar 180….hmm.

Performance
Talking about performance Pulsar DTSi 180 is a heavier machine when compared to the previous version and that affects quite a lot to the performance of the vehicle. The heavy tyres at the rear and the decrease of torque by 1 Nm has certainly brought down the performance level. Despite these drawbacks Pulsar 180 is still ranked as one of the top performing bikes; it can touch up to 123 kmph speed, which is quite a feat by the manufacturers.

TVS RTR 180 is as light as feather when compared to Pulsar 180; the tyres are slimmer and the torque is simply amazing, which takes the bike a few steps ahead of Pulsar DTSi 180 in terms of performance. Apache touches a top speed of 124 kmph @ 12000 rpm and at that speed you can zip, zap and zoom.

Mileage
TVS Apache RTR 180 gives a mileage of 39-44 Kmpl for that city riding and a little higher around 43-48 kmpl on the long drive or highway ride. Pulsar on the other hand, consumes less fuel; it gives around 41-46 kmpl mileage in the city and up to 46-51 kmpl on the highway riding.

Color choice and price
The Bajaj Pulsar DTSi 180 is available in four colors; Black, Red, Blue and Silver and Apache comes in White, yellow, Gray and Black.

Bajaj Pulsar DTSi 180 is around Rs. 68,600 and the TVS Apache RTR 180 comes on little expensive side at Rs. 72,000. The price differences between the two bikes maybe just a few thousand rupees but in all honesty it is hard to say which one is the better bike to choose.

Both Bajaj Pulsar 180 DTSi and TVS Apache RTR 180 bikes almost equal and it is better to leave the decision to the reader; so choose the one that suits you needs and one that meets your requirements and budget.

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Posted in Bike Comparison | 90 Comments »

Best 125cc bikes in India

Monday, January 11th, 2010

Which is your choice from the 125cc bikes in India?

India is a big market for two-wheeler bikes segment. Ranked next only to china, Indian consumers are always on their look out for feature-packed bikes that give value for their money. To cash in on this ever growing sentiment and also the consumer behavior major bike making majors in India from Honda to Bajaj seem to have their focus set on designing, developing and launching models pitted against adversaries in the 125cc bike segment. The best thing about this segment is that the bike models that fall in this category guarantees the basic functionality of say speed, performance and also fuel efficiency at an affordable cost to those bike enthusiasts looking forward to buy a commuter bike for the first time.

In this segment Bajaj has incorporated a new technology in its engine. It is called DTS-Si Digital Twin Spark –Swirl Induction aiming for higher fuel efficiency for its customers-Bajaj Platina DTS-Si. Bajaj strategically focused on its R&D to launch newer models and upgrade already existent ones in this segment. This bikes performs effectively even in low RPMs. Bajaj Platina DTS-Si is best for city rides with soft suspension and drum brakes at both the front and rear ends. The bike is slim and short but it’s not as stunning as the Honda Stunner.

Then, there is Bajaj Discover 125cc. The bike model is quite trendy and stylish. It hit the market with electric start as well as a digital console. But the unique feature of 125 cc model is the digital twin spark ignition (DTS-i) technology. Bajaj Discover 125cc model guarantees better fuel efficiency than its competitors. One can enjoy good riding experience with the Bajaj 125 cc model; however amongst its adversaries in the 125cc segment, Bajaj Discover bike looks smaller.

Now leave the Discover and the Platina behind and get your hands on the new baby Pulsar; Bajaj Auto launched its Pulsar variant P135 LS on December 09, 2009 pitting it against the Honda Stunner. The styling looks good and the split seat and split grab rails with disc brakes in the front and the bikini faring of the headlight all make it quite a decent metal in the 125 cc segment. There are actually many uniques to Pulsar 135cc, and it certainly is a value for money from the looks (a Rs. 51,000 ex-showroom price in Delhi) and we will come out with a detailed review on the Pulsar 135 in the coming days.

Honda Stunner from the Honda stable has been an impressive bike in this segment wooing youth for sometime now. The bike’s engine generates 11 bhp at 8000 rpm and can accelerate to 60kmph in just 5.2 seconds. Now that makes the Honda Stunner the fastest bike in the 125cc segment. Besides stunner has killer looks with a stepped-up seat and fuel tank. The buzz with the Honda stunner is its gorgeous styling with also the extended cowl. Again, Honda stunner is better suited for rides on the city roads than cruising along the highways. Weight distribution in this bike is quite impressive. Stunner has been raved for its excellent brakes as well. This is the bike that oozes in style statement and definitely for the under-20 bike riders.

Another good blend of high-end sports bike and low-end bikes of the 100cc is the Hero Honda Glamour. Glamour is a 125cc. bike from Honda and the styling of this bike is quite unique with hood, and tweaked headlamp and tail lamp designs. It features 4-speed gear system and gives good riding experience to riders even at that high speeds.
The Honda bikes are great for the first-time bike enthusiasts and if you think of upgrading your bike in the later years, Hero Honda bikes also come with good resale value as the engines provide with great mileage even after that long-term use.

But if you are looking for a decent look and do not want to compromise on mileage Honda Shine is a sure good bet. It does not feature that sporty look thingy and appeal, but has an in-built comfort level that any office commuter would definitely like to enjoy on a day to day basis. At low speed one can enjoy excellent acceleration, however, you cannot expect a second glance as Honda Shine is not a bike with beauty; it’s the bike designed just for comfort. This bike is designed to cater to a different segment of population and college goers aren’t given a thought when it was designed and developed.

Then, from the TVS stable there is a new warhorse which is TVS Flame DS 125cc. The Flame DS 125 is a re-launch of already existent Flame; however it comes with new technology developed with TVS’ collaboration with Austria-based AVL. The 125cc engine with three valves is tweaked to give superior performance as well as improved fuel efficiency. TVS Flame DS125 is also the first and the only bike with 3-valve and the twin-spark plug technology (finally the legal feud between Bajaj and TVS ended and Flame DS125 is the first launch from TVS after that). The new TVS Flame DS 125 comes with a price tag of Rs. 49,200 and it just a little higher than the existent Flame. Available in the color options of red and black, this should be a deal for the money.

So, for the Indian roads, the 125cc segment is getting hotter and hotter with newer launches, upgrades and makeovers quite often. Grabbing the market share with innovative products has been the mantra adopted by most of the bike makers in India. However, the one that sells the most will depend on the particular population segment. If you are a college-goer and would love to sport a style it might be Honda Stunner, but if you are looking for a commuter bike that is a value for money you could probably settle in with the Bajaj bikes.

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Launch of TVS Apache RTR 180 Menace

Tuesday, April 14th, 2009

TVS Apache RTR 180 Menace– a menace to Bajaj Pulsars and Yamaha FZS?

The all new 180cc engine bike from TVS Company will kiss the Indian roads sometime the festive season of 2009. Christened as Menace, this sports bike has whole new looks with stepped-up performance.

Designed along similar lines of previous TVS Apache RTR models, TVS Apache Menace will steal an envying glance from the passers by for the no-front-scoop fairing. The bike gets a sportier look with part of exposed engine. The new TVS Apache RTR 180 Menace will be available in three colors of sporty yellow, flaming red and matt grey.


Running on 180cc engine TVS Apache Menace is expected to generate power of 18bhp and 16Nm torque with a top speed of 135kph. It comes with multi-plate clutch system, 5-speed gear transmission, and has an air-cooled, 4-stroke, mono cylinder 180cc engine. The engine will be powered by a fuel injection system and will have a greater compression ratio for enhanced combustion as well as fuel optimum utilization.

The all new dream bike TVS Apache Menace will come equipped with a double-cradle chassis and a mono shock suspension. The bike comes with disc brakes both front and rear ends and it is one enhanced safety feature. With Apache Menace one can also expect a longer wheelbase and even digital speedometer.

Expectations are that the engine will produce least vibration at high speed as TVS Apache Menace will be equipped with a single lever. This performance bike might surprise all with a new exhaust system to become more environment-friendly bike. You never know until it’s launched though.

The price of TVS Apache RTR 180 Menace is expected to be around Rs.80,000 and will compete with the likes of Yamaha R15, Pulsar 200cc and will boost up bike market share for TVS in the coming months with larger market capitalization.

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Patent To Bajaj Will Not Affect TVS

Tuesday, April 7th, 2009

We have posted earlier an article about Bajaj being granted a patent for its exhausTEC engine technology. The news sparked fear amongst bike lovers, especially about the fate of TVS Apache bikes. This had prompted TVS Motors to come with a clarification.


According to TVS Motor Company, it is not infringing on any patent of Bajaj Auto and that its business will not be affected as none of the TVS brands is using the aforesaid technology.

Furthermore on the confusion regarding exhausTEC and DTSi, TVS Motor Company clarified that exhausTEC and DTSi are totally two different technologies and the Bajaj Auto’s patent is for its “ExhausTEC”, and not DTSi.

TVS Motors requested media not to misled people into believing that they have infringed the Bajaj technologies. While reiterating that both exhausTEC and DTSi are different, TVS reaffirm that none of their bikes use either of these technologies. The company also remarks that there should be no reason for people to believe that TVS bikes will be in trouble.

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Bajaj Auto Granted with Engine Technology Patent

Sunday, April 5th, 2009

Bajaj Auto has finally been granted patent no 231498 by The Indian Patents’ Office dated March 5, 2009 after a legal tussle with TVS Motor Company on infringement over the use of ExhausTEC invention technology. The patent has been published in Patent Gazette dated March 27, 2009.

Inspired by DTSi (Digital Twin Spark Ignition) innovation, Bajaj did already set in to revolutionize the two-wheeler industry with fuel-efficient engine. Now this innovative ExhausTEC technology will help improve the mid/low range torque in mono-cylinder 4-stroke engine. Torque is basically the force used to rotate an object around an axis. The exhaust chamber is designed with pre-determined volume and is attached to the exhaust pipe. Improved ExhausTEC will ensure reduced emissions, better mileage and overall better performance of motorcycles.


Ever since its innovation in August 2004, Bajaj has used the technology in all its models. It was hereafter that Bajaj Auto applied for a patent on this innovation.

This patent for Bajaj could mean a problem to TVS motors as the Company had used this particular technology in all its Apache models and Bajaj is armed to fight it out on the basis of infringement. With Madras High Court’s rule in favor of the Bajaj Auto, TVS had earlier withdrawn launch of its models equipped with single-spark technology.

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TVS Scooty Streak Wallpapers

Tuesday, February 10th, 2009

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The All New TVS Scooty Streak

Saturday, January 31st, 2009

In keeping with its intention to lead innovation in the scooter segment for young girls and in an effort to take the very popular Scooty brand to the next level, TVS Motor Company has launched the all new Stylish and Futuristic TVS Scooty Streak. The Scooty Streak will be a no compromise option for young girls, providing the right mix of performance, style, convenience and comfort.

TVS Scooty Streak comes with a smart and sleek unisex styling. The sharp head lamps, LED tail-lamps and contemporary styling takes the Scooty Streak into a different league making it the most stylish scooter for young girls. The LiTech engine makes the Scooty Streak light, zippy and the most fuel efficient bike in its class.

Scooty Streak, which will be available in a range of five exciting colours including red, blue, black, pink and mauve is packed with many innovative features.

The bike offers superior ride quality with its high-comfort contoured seat and the all aluminum shock absorbers that provide stress free riding even on bad roads. It comes with broad anti-skid tyres that provide enhanced wet braking stability and is equipped with an external fuel fill at the rear for refueling. The eazy center stand allows one to put the bike on the stand almost effortlessly. The bike is fitted with a mobile charger and a lockable front glove box to store handy items.

Wallpapers of TVS Scooty Streak

Sania Mirza will be the brand ambassador for Scooty Streak. Scooty Streak is priced at Rs. 35,800 ex-showroom.

Scooty Streak is the fourth offering from Scooty after Pep+, Teenz and Teenz Electric.

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TVS launches Apache RTR 160 RD

Thursday, December 11th, 2008

December 11, 2008: TVS Motor today announced the launch of its premium segment motorcycle, the Apache RTR 160 RD. The Apache RTR 160 RD now comes with a factory fitted 200mm Rear Petal Disc Brake. Since its launch the Apache RTR has been a runaway success due to its superior power and performance derived from its Racing Throttle Response, which still is the benchmark in the above parameters.


With the introduction of 200mm Petal Rear Disc brake, the Apache RTR adds a new performance dimension offering Incomparable Braking Performance, thereby matching the aspirations of the youth of today for a fast, muscular, powerful and yet, latest on safety parameter, motorcycle designed to give vent to their desire of an unmatched and superior racing performance.

The Apache was the company’s first sporty motorcycle with chiseled looks, unmatched performance and superior engine technology which represented the new spirit of the company young, vibrant, aggressive and committed to create innovative motorcycles that employ the latest technology and design to match international standards.

“Apache is the result of TVS racing heritage and has been born on the racetrack and was built to redefine and set a benchmark in the Performance Segment, both in terms of leading edge technology and design styling. We took the Apache to the next level with the launch of the RTR or Racing Throttle Response, an integration of superior R&D efforts and application of lessons learnt on the vindictive racing tracks in India. We therefore created a premier street bike, high on performance by combining TVS Racing’s technology with R&D know how. This was followed by the introduction of fuel injection technology for the first time in the 160 cc category. We have now introduced the option of a rear disc at a nominal price. The priority in every step of the Apache brand’s development has been Performance. Every system, detail and component has been tuned to maximize Performance” said H S Goindi, President, Marketing TVS Motor Company.

The disc brake variant is available at a nominal premium of Rs. 2000/- over the existing rear drum brake version.

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