Showing posts with label bike. Show all posts
Showing posts with label bike. Show all posts
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Suzuki Launches Intruder M800 in India
The Intruder M1800R is already prevalent in India. But, its high performing engine was not suited for the Indian roads which is why the same model with a slightly lower powered engine is launched.
The M800 has been launched in 12 cities so far in the Indian sub continent including Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai, Pune and Ahmedabad. Regarding the launch of the bike, Mr Atul Gupta, Vice President (Sales & Marketing), Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt Ltd (SMIPL) said, “The Intruder M800 is more focused as an entry level cruiser which performs like its bigger brother giving a chance to the Indian youth to step in to the world of performance biking.”
The bike is powered by a 805 cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected V-Twin engine mated with a 5 speed constant mesh gearbox. The fuel injection system with Suzuki Dual Throttle Valve (SDTV) delivers smooth low to mid rpm throttle response and high torque output. The bike is also equipped with an automatic Idle Speed Control (ISC) system which eliminates the choke and shortens the engine’s warm up time. For precise control of the bike, the M800 is equipped with a Powerful 32-bit-prosessor Engine Control Module (ECM). In order to cut down the emission from the exhaust, a Pulsed AIR (PAIR) injection system is also fitted on to this bike.
Just like any other macho looking cruiser, the M800 is also visually pleasing with too much of chrome pinch all over the body of the bike. The chrome runs all along the engine as well. The bike is known for its one of the weirdest looking headlamp shape coupled with its fairing. The instrument cluster of the Intruder M800 is integrated with its distinctive headlight cowl to the purposeful tailsection. The instrument cluster boasts of a fuel gauge and a clock too. The silver finish extends to the wheels too. The dimensions of the wheels are 16 inch for the front and 15 inch rear wheels.
The 41mm inverted front forks add sporty looks and performance. The rear tail section is an all LED which looks gorgeous to look from the rear. Also, the rear light is housed within a casing so as to offer an entirely all new look.
Here is the brief spec list of the newly launched Suzuki Intruder M800
Engine Type : 4-stroke, 2-cylinder, Liquid-cooled, OHC, 45°V-twin
Bore x Stroke : 83.0 mm x 74.4 mm
Engine Displacement : 805 cc
Compression Ratio : 9.4 : 1
Carburetion : Fuel injection
Oil Capacity : 3.7L
Ignition : Electronic ignition (Transistorized)
Starter System : Electric
Lubrication System : Wet sump
Transmission : 5 speed constant mesh
Primary Drive Ratio : 1.690 (71 / 42)
Final Drive Ratio : 3.503 (17 / 15 x 34 / 11)
Frame Type : Double cradle (steel)
Rake / Trail : 33.15′ degrees / 141 mm (5.6 in.)
Suspension : Front Telescopic, coil spring, oil damped
Rear : Link type, coil spring, oil damped
Wheel Front :16 M/C x MT3.00
Wheel Rear : 15 M/C x MT4.00
Brake Front : 2 piston calipers, 300 mm disc
Brake Rear : Drum brake
Tyre Front : 130/90-16M/C 67H tubeles
Tyre Rear : 170/80-15M/C 77H tubeless
Fuel Tank : 15.5 L (4.1 US gal.)
Overall Length : 2,395 mm (94.3 in.)
Overall Width : 890 mm (35.0 in.)
Overall Height : 1,105 mm (43.5 in.)
Wheelbase: 1,655 mm (65.2 in.)
Seat Height : 700 mm (27.6 in.)
Curb Mass : 269 kg (593 lbs.)
The bike is available in 3 different colours Viz Metallic Oort Grey, Pearl Nebular Black and Candy Max Orange. Coming to the most important aspect of the bike which is the pricing, the cruiser is priced at INR 8,80,000 (8.8 lakh)
The M800 has been launched in 12 cities so far in the Indian sub continent including Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai, Pune and Ahmedabad. Regarding the launch of the bike, Mr Atul Gupta, Vice President (Sales & Marketing), Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt Ltd (SMIPL) said, “The Intruder M800 is more focused as an entry level cruiser which performs like its bigger brother giving a chance to the Indian youth to step in to the world of performance biking.”
The bike is powered by a 805 cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected V-Twin engine mated with a 5 speed constant mesh gearbox. The fuel injection system with Suzuki Dual Throttle Valve (SDTV) delivers smooth low to mid rpm throttle response and high torque output. The bike is also equipped with an automatic Idle Speed Control (ISC) system which eliminates the choke and shortens the engine’s warm up time. For precise control of the bike, the M800 is equipped with a Powerful 32-bit-prosessor Engine Control Module (ECM). In order to cut down the emission from the exhaust, a Pulsed AIR (PAIR) injection system is also fitted on to this bike.
Just like any other macho looking cruiser, the M800 is also visually pleasing with too much of chrome pinch all over the body of the bike. The chrome runs all along the engine as well. The bike is known for its one of the weirdest looking headlamp shape coupled with its fairing. The instrument cluster of the Intruder M800 is integrated with its distinctive headlight cowl to the purposeful tailsection. The instrument cluster boasts of a fuel gauge and a clock too. The silver finish extends to the wheels too. The dimensions of the wheels are 16 inch for the front and 15 inch rear wheels.
The 41mm inverted front forks add sporty looks and performance. The rear tail section is an all LED which looks gorgeous to look from the rear. Also, the rear light is housed within a casing so as to offer an entirely all new look.
Here is the brief spec list of the newly launched Suzuki Intruder M800
Engine Type : 4-stroke, 2-cylinder, Liquid-cooled, OHC, 45°V-twin
Bore x Stroke : 83.0 mm x 74.4 mm
Engine Displacement : 805 cc
Compression Ratio : 9.4 : 1
Carburetion : Fuel injection
Oil Capacity : 3.7L
Ignition : Electronic ignition (Transistorized)
Starter System : Electric
Lubrication System : Wet sump
Transmission : 5 speed constant mesh
Primary Drive Ratio : 1.690 (71 / 42)
Final Drive Ratio : 3.503 (17 / 15 x 34 / 11)
Frame Type : Double cradle (steel)
Rake / Trail : 33.15′ degrees / 141 mm (5.6 in.)
Suspension : Front Telescopic, coil spring, oil damped
Rear : Link type, coil spring, oil damped
Wheel Front :16 M/C x MT3.00
Wheel Rear : 15 M/C x MT4.00
Brake Front : 2 piston calipers, 300 mm disc
Brake Rear : Drum brake
Tyre Front : 130/90-16M/C 67H tubeles
Tyre Rear : 170/80-15M/C 77H tubeless
Fuel Tank : 15.5 L (4.1 US gal.)
Overall Length : 2,395 mm (94.3 in.)
Overall Width : 890 mm (35.0 in.)
Overall Height : 1,105 mm (43.5 in.)
Wheelbase: 1,655 mm (65.2 in.)
Seat Height : 700 mm (27.6 in.)
Curb Mass : 269 kg (593 lbs.)
The bike is available in 3 different colours Viz Metallic Oort Grey, Pearl Nebular Black and Candy Max Orange. Coming to the most important aspect of the bike which is the pricing, the cruiser is priced at INR 8,80,000 (8.8 lakh)
Monday, November 28, 2011
10 Tips on Being a Sensible Rider
This is for all those who forget the fact that all vehicles are equipped with turn indicators. They are after all meant to be used. Why can’t you indicate the other riders that you’re all set to go off the straight road. Make it clear that it’s your responsibility to do so.
Two wheelers are meant to carry only two people. I repeat so that it becomes more clear, two wheelers are meant to carry only two people. Where from do you get the idea of making four people sharing a single seat? Agreed that India is still in the clutches of poverty. But, this is a sign of high life risk which affects the other riders and commuters on the road as well.
Don’t ever ride your vehicle without Rear View Mirrors fitted. Only when you get a glimpse of what is happening behind you, you’ll be able to ride comfortably. I’ve noticed that all idiots who tend to turn immediately along a straight road are those who haven’t installed rear view mirrors.
People tend to ride off their senses in the traffic signals. Don’t try pushing yourself into every single gap resulting in dashing the other two wheelers from behind. Understand that you are also in a verge of getting the cars which are stuck with you in the signal getting scratched along its body.
Don’t jump traffic signals. I always wanted to ask a question to these guys and here it goes. Isn’t it a fact that you can only jump this signal and still be caught in the red light of the next one? What joy does that offer you? For God’s sake stop doing that cheap act.
It you’re forced to carry some baggage or luggage with you in your two wheeler, see to it that they are properly tied and are intact. Don’t ever proceed commuting thinking that it’ll stay perfectly in the place where you’ve kept it. What happens here is that the rider will start losing his/her balance in the mid of the road leading to a disastrous fall. The disaster mentioned here will not be just for you but for other ladies and gentlemen as well.
Guys, keep this is in your mind as a ‘Golden Rule’ whenever you ride your bike. Be to that side of the road where you are gonna make a turn. If you have to take a left turn along a main road, make sure that you start moving to the left side of the road a little earlier. I do observe a lotta people taking a left turn from the right end of the road. This creates confusion in the mind of the rider coming begin you. This is what is called ‘Senseless Driving.’
This rule is for riders using vehicles with Disc Brakes. It so happens that most of the time, a commuter is forced to brake hard and obviously uses the front discs. But, it so happens that most of the regular riders prefer using the discs over the rear brakes. The problem with this method of braking is something which you would have never observed. The person following you in his vehicle night not have discs in this bike/scooter. In such a case, when you tend to use your disc at instances where it’s not necessary, then there are more chances of your bike getting hit from the rear. This doesn’t mean that you don’t have to use where you have to.
Please don’t ride your vehicle in the night without turning on the headlamp. My pal sitting next to me asks who does it. But, the answer is that there are too many id**ts in the country who does this creating accidents everywhere irrespective of it being the city roads or the highways. Common sense again, right? I’ve faced issues because of such riders many a time.
There is nothing called ‘Negligence’ which comes into play when riding. Be alert and careful. Above that be Cautious on what is happening around you in the road.
Two wheelers are meant to carry only two people. I repeat so that it becomes more clear, two wheelers are meant to carry only two people. Where from do you get the idea of making four people sharing a single seat? Agreed that India is still in the clutches of poverty. But, this is a sign of high life risk which affects the other riders and commuters on the road as well.
Don’t ever ride your vehicle without Rear View Mirrors fitted. Only when you get a glimpse of what is happening behind you, you’ll be able to ride comfortably. I’ve noticed that all idiots who tend to turn immediately along a straight road are those who haven’t installed rear view mirrors.
People tend to ride off their senses in the traffic signals. Don’t try pushing yourself into every single gap resulting in dashing the other two wheelers from behind. Understand that you are also in a verge of getting the cars which are stuck with you in the signal getting scratched along its body.
Don’t jump traffic signals. I always wanted to ask a question to these guys and here it goes. Isn’t it a fact that you can only jump this signal and still be caught in the red light of the next one? What joy does that offer you? For God’s sake stop doing that cheap act.
It you’re forced to carry some baggage or luggage with you in your two wheeler, see to it that they are properly tied and are intact. Don’t ever proceed commuting thinking that it’ll stay perfectly in the place where you’ve kept it. What happens here is that the rider will start losing his/her balance in the mid of the road leading to a disastrous fall. The disaster mentioned here will not be just for you but for other ladies and gentlemen as well.
Guys, keep this is in your mind as a ‘Golden Rule’ whenever you ride your bike. Be to that side of the road where you are gonna make a turn. If you have to take a left turn along a main road, make sure that you start moving to the left side of the road a little earlier. I do observe a lotta people taking a left turn from the right end of the road. This creates confusion in the mind of the rider coming begin you. This is what is called ‘Senseless Driving.’
This rule is for riders using vehicles with Disc Brakes. It so happens that most of the time, a commuter is forced to brake hard and obviously uses the front discs. But, it so happens that most of the regular riders prefer using the discs over the rear brakes. The problem with this method of braking is something which you would have never observed. The person following you in his vehicle night not have discs in this bike/scooter. In such a case, when you tend to use your disc at instances where it’s not necessary, then there are more chances of your bike getting hit from the rear. This doesn’t mean that you don’t have to use where you have to.
Please don’t ride your vehicle in the night without turning on the headlamp. My pal sitting next to me asks who does it. But, the answer is that there are too many id**ts in the country who does this creating accidents everywhere irrespective of it being the city roads or the highways. Common sense again, right? I’ve faced issues because of such riders many a time.
There is nothing called ‘Negligence’ which comes into play when riding. Be alert and careful. Above that be Cautious on what is happening around you in the road.
Insights on the 2012 Bajaj Pulsar
The following are the insights we get to know about the 2012 Pulsar from the spy pics clicked somewhere near the Bajaj’s Chakan plant in Pune.
The rear tail light is similar to the traditional twin lamp design which still looks perfect on the bike.
The rear quarter of the bike will more or less compete with the Yamaha R15 V2.0 which has a sharp ending. The rear lamps are now more sharper and note the number plate holder. It is perfectly inspired from the Japanese bikes.
These bikes have no rear wheel hugger which we’ll find in the production models.
For all Monoshock suspension lever, it’s time for you to rejoice. Note the yellow colour mono-shocks on the rear. It looks damn sporty on this model.
The design of the alloy wheels is sure to rock. There is a ten spoke alloy which is fitted to the 2012 Pulsar which looks terribly hot and is even one of the best looking wheels on the Indian bikes.
The seating position is all set to see a change with this model. It is very clear that is resembles the KTM Dukes in this aspect. The KTM 125 Duke which I reviewed in Singapore in the month of August is what I got reminded right at the first sight. Kudos for that!
Note the biggest change in the 2012 Pulsar. The exhaust is not visible onto the right rear half nor it’s got an underseat exhaust. Then where is it? There are more chances that it houses a centralized exhaust which is very new for an Indian bike
The front disc appears to be pretty bigger than the one found in the present model. Implies improvised braking which gets to feel it’s need in a bike with improvised performance. So what is the change in engine now? Awesome question with absolutely no answer (unfortunately)!
The engine might now be liquid cooled to take the R15 V2.0 head on. There are more chances of this to happen.
There is a complete makeover with the headlamp fairing in the front as well. Let’s wait for some more time to know what is exactly is as it’s not clear with these images.
The platform on which the Pulsar was built on has also seen a complete change. Looks like Bajaj has made use of KTM’s platform to build this bike. Very evident from the pics.
For an all new visual upgrade, air scoops along the side of the fuel tank have now grown bigger and resembles the KTM Dukes once again. Bajaj’s 39 per cent stake in the Austrian maker KTM has not gone waste.
But, a major concern is that there are no discs at the rear. Will this see a change in the production model? Let’s see how it goes
The rear tail light is similar to the traditional twin lamp design which still looks perfect on the bike.
The rear quarter of the bike will more or less compete with the Yamaha R15 V2.0 which has a sharp ending. The rear lamps are now more sharper and note the number plate holder. It is perfectly inspired from the Japanese bikes.
These bikes have no rear wheel hugger which we’ll find in the production models.
For all Monoshock suspension lever, it’s time for you to rejoice. Note the yellow colour mono-shocks on the rear. It looks damn sporty on this model.
The design of the alloy wheels is sure to rock. There is a ten spoke alloy which is fitted to the 2012 Pulsar which looks terribly hot and is even one of the best looking wheels on the Indian bikes.
The seating position is all set to see a change with this model. It is very clear that is resembles the KTM Dukes in this aspect. The KTM 125 Duke which I reviewed in Singapore in the month of August is what I got reminded right at the first sight. Kudos for that!
Note the biggest change in the 2012 Pulsar. The exhaust is not visible onto the right rear half nor it’s got an underseat exhaust. Then where is it? There are more chances that it houses a centralized exhaust which is very new for an Indian bike
The front disc appears to be pretty bigger than the one found in the present model. Implies improvised braking which gets to feel it’s need in a bike with improvised performance. So what is the change in engine now? Awesome question with absolutely no answer (unfortunately)!
The engine might now be liquid cooled to take the R15 V2.0 head on. There are more chances of this to happen.
There is a complete makeover with the headlamp fairing in the front as well. Let’s wait for some more time to know what is exactly is as it’s not clear with these images.
The platform on which the Pulsar was built on has also seen a complete change. Looks like Bajaj has made use of KTM’s platform to build this bike. Very evident from the pics.
For an all new visual upgrade, air scoops along the side of the fuel tank have now grown bigger and resembles the KTM Dukes once again. Bajaj’s 39 per cent stake in the Austrian maker KTM has not gone waste.
But, a major concern is that there are no discs at the rear. Will this see a change in the production model? Let’s see how it goes
Honda to Launch Two New Products In 2012
Honda is a company that is been synonymous with refined engines and trusted bikes all across the globe. The company had proved its potential in India as well with few of its best sellers like the CB Unicorn in the bike segment and the Activa in the scooter segmentHMSI (Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India) had earlier set a target for itself of selling 2.1 Mn units in the Financial Year 2012. Now, the company is even more confident of achieving its target within the specified time.
According to one of the latest news article in Financial Chronicle, ‘While other two wheeler makers such as Hero MotoCorp, Bajaj and TVS reported fall in sales in the range of 5-15 per cent in October when compared with September this year, Honda Motorcycle managed to maintain its sales volumes with a marginal drop in sales. The company sold 178,181 two wheelers in October, against 178,146 units in September.’ This figure clearly reveals the potential of the company in the Indian market.
To take these figures forward during the FY 2012, HMSI has also planned to launch two new products in the next year out of which one will be a bike and the other a scooter. But, we’ve no clues on what category would these new products be falling under. It’s not to be forgotten that Honda Activa was indeed a game changer when coming to the scooter segment in the Indian two wheeler market.
Talking about the plans of the company, Mr. NK Rattan, Vice – President – Sales & Marketing told, “We expect this growth momentum to continue. We plan to sell 21 lakh units from our Manesar and Tapukara plant and end the fiscal FY’11-12 with an estimated 27 per cent growth over 16.56 lakh units sold in FY’10-11. We are on track to achieve this target.”
The reason for them to stay on track achieving their target is their new plant which started its operation from the month of July this year in Tapukara, Rajasthan. The first phase of this plant with an installed capacity of 0.6 million units production capacity has already been completed. With the second factory of HMSI in the same state of Rajasthan, the company intends to increase the total capacity of its production to a whooping 1.2 Mn units by the month of March 2012.
As a customer , this should rejoice every single customer of HMSI who is either waiting to het its product delivered after waiting for many long months besides satisfying the frequent customer issue of unavailability of spare parts for Honda products. Mr. Rattan said in the interview, “This shall ease out the waiting period to less than one month.”
Currently, almost all Honda products are facing a waiting period of 90 days to as much as 180 days and at times even more. This had only added woes to the customers in the recent past.
He also said the present order booking is around 60 days and the company is in a position to serve its customers faster. “Aviator and CBF Stunner are doing very well,” he added without providing any further details on the statement.
The company’s new scooter will most likely be showcased in Delhi Auto Expo which is scheduled to take place in the month of January 2011. One info we’ve got about the company’s yet to be launched bike is that it’s gonna be targeting the youth of the nation exclusively. This news makes us go crazy now. This simply means that the bike is gonna be worth the wait. But, unfortunately its only he scooter which will be showcased and not the bike. The bike will be launched only by the end of current fiscal year. The two launches is solely done with the intention of boosting the company’s sales further which enhance the HMSI in achieving their target specified above on time.
Further, to meet the growing demand o Honda’s products in theSouthern part of the country, the company has recently laid the foundation stone for its third manufacturing facility in the state of Karnataka. With its expansion from 16.5 lakh units in FY2010-11 to 40 lakh units in early half of the year 2013, HMSI hopes to reduce waiting periods for all its products in the portfolio.
Mr. Subrata Ray, Senior Vice-President, Corporate Ratings, Icra mentioned in one of his comments, “HMSI continues to maintain its leadership position in the scooters segment through its flagship brand Activa (besides Aviator and Dio) enjoying a market share of 45.4 per cent in Q2, 2011- 12.”
The figures seems really impressive for a company like Honda with ling waiting periods though its taking all necessary steps to reduce it. We just want our readers to stay with us at the time of Delhi Auto Expo as we’ll bring more insights onto these products. Do open up your discussion on the new products from Honda in the box below.
According to one of the latest news article in Financial Chronicle, ‘While other two wheeler makers such as Hero MotoCorp, Bajaj and TVS reported fall in sales in the range of 5-15 per cent in October when compared with September this year, Honda Motorcycle managed to maintain its sales volumes with a marginal drop in sales. The company sold 178,181 two wheelers in October, against 178,146 units in September.’ This figure clearly reveals the potential of the company in the Indian market.
To take these figures forward during the FY 2012, HMSI has also planned to launch two new products in the next year out of which one will be a bike and the other a scooter. But, we’ve no clues on what category would these new products be falling under. It’s not to be forgotten that Honda Activa was indeed a game changer when coming to the scooter segment in the Indian two wheeler market.
Talking about the plans of the company, Mr. NK Rattan, Vice – President – Sales & Marketing told, “We expect this growth momentum to continue. We plan to sell 21 lakh units from our Manesar and Tapukara plant and end the fiscal FY’11-12 with an estimated 27 per cent growth over 16.56 lakh units sold in FY’10-11. We are on track to achieve this target.”
The reason for them to stay on track achieving their target is their new plant which started its operation from the month of July this year in Tapukara, Rajasthan. The first phase of this plant with an installed capacity of 0.6 million units production capacity has already been completed. With the second factory of HMSI in the same state of Rajasthan, the company intends to increase the total capacity of its production to a whooping 1.2 Mn units by the month of March 2012.
As a customer , this should rejoice every single customer of HMSI who is either waiting to het its product delivered after waiting for many long months besides satisfying the frequent customer issue of unavailability of spare parts for Honda products. Mr. Rattan said in the interview, “This shall ease out the waiting period to less than one month.”
Currently, almost all Honda products are facing a waiting period of 90 days to as much as 180 days and at times even more. This had only added woes to the customers in the recent past.
He also said the present order booking is around 60 days and the company is in a position to serve its customers faster. “Aviator and CBF Stunner are doing very well,” he added without providing any further details on the statement.
The company’s new scooter will most likely be showcased in Delhi Auto Expo which is scheduled to take place in the month of January 2011. One info we’ve got about the company’s yet to be launched bike is that it’s gonna be targeting the youth of the nation exclusively. This news makes us go crazy now. This simply means that the bike is gonna be worth the wait. But, unfortunately its only he scooter which will be showcased and not the bike. The bike will be launched only by the end of current fiscal year. The two launches is solely done with the intention of boosting the company’s sales further which enhance the HMSI in achieving their target specified above on time.
Further, to meet the growing demand o Honda’s products in theSouthern part of the country, the company has recently laid the foundation stone for its third manufacturing facility in the state of Karnataka. With its expansion from 16.5 lakh units in FY2010-11 to 40 lakh units in early half of the year 2013, HMSI hopes to reduce waiting periods for all its products in the portfolio.
Mr. Subrata Ray, Senior Vice-President, Corporate Ratings, Icra mentioned in one of his comments, “HMSI continues to maintain its leadership position in the scooters segment through its flagship brand Activa (besides Aviator and Dio) enjoying a market share of 45.4 per cent in Q2, 2011- 12.”
The figures seems really impressive for a company like Honda with ling waiting periods though its taking all necessary steps to reduce it. We just want our readers to stay with us at the time of Delhi Auto Expo as we’ll bring more insights onto these products. Do open up your discussion on the new products from Honda in the box below.
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Fiat hires Italian veteran to take on Volkswagen in Indian automobile market
Italian car maker Fiat has roped in 53-year-old Enrico Atanasio to turn around the fortunes of its struggling Indian operations as rivals such as Volkswagen rapidly ramps up its market share in the world's fast-growing automobile market after China. Atanasio will take charge as Fiat India's senior vice-president (commercial) to spearhead an initiative to boost product pipeline and overhaul marketing functions .
Two top executives in the commercial operations, Ravi Bhatia and Tarun Khanna, will report to the new Italian head. While Bhatia will coordinate with the joint venture partner Tata Motors, Khanna will be in charge of spare parts sourcing. Rajeev Kapoor will continue to be the president & Chief Executive Officer of Fiat India. The move to bring an Italian to the top management stems from Fiat's desire to align the Indian operations to the global brand. "It was felt that an Italian would help in better global brand positioning and in aligning the Indian operations with the global operations soon.
Two top executives in the commercial operations, Ravi Bhatia and Tarun Khanna, will report to the new Italian head. While Bhatia will coordinate with the joint venture partner Tata Motors, Khanna will be in charge of spare parts sourcing. Rajeev Kapoor will continue to be the president & Chief Executive Officer of Fiat India. The move to bring an Italian to the top management stems from Fiat's desire to align the Indian operations to the global brand. "It was felt that an Italian would help in better global brand positioning and in aligning the Indian operations with the global operations soon.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Bike Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
Be it your new Lord of the Streets or your cute budget bike, they are such loyal buddies taking the lazy you to office, to grocer, carrying you and your monthly grocery through the crowded streets to home, after you’ve had enough of the rest-of-the-world experience. Don’t you think we need to pay back our 4-stroke bike at least giving it a once-in-a-while cleaning at house? So said, I would like you to read through the following lines.
You got all those bike accessories as because you liked the way they changed the look of your bike; whether it is the shiny chrome, or the dual tone graphics on it, or even extra beautiful paint. These could set your bike apart in a crowd and give it a special identity like you have in your work place. While you receive all that pampering do you pay back to your bike? In fact let me tell, even a 1lakh bike will be great on road if its dirty and an decade old bike can still be shining and attracting second looks- all in the maintenance.
I am going to give you a few tips in bike cleaning and hopefully with the pampering it receives it will never let you down:
If you have had a long drive the bike needs a cool down time period before you head for a washing episode. It allows the engine to cool down. If not there could be streaking, damage to chrome and spotting and at times even crack of the engine as well. Look for leaks if any and wear of the tyres, any loose bolts and even hoses, and give a thorough look at other areas which sometimes take your attention to otherwise neglected things.
Cleaning Equipment Required: The list of soaps, waxes and cleaning agents is almost endless and if you are a little careful you can do a hell lot with a good brush, clean rags, and some water. But so said, I would suggest that you pick a cleaning solution that is tailor made for bikes. Inappropriate cleaners will get on saddle, blue the chrome and get on the paint. Thus, use products that will not cause problems as regards to spoiling the finish or discoloring it. Remember cheap cleaning products will only harm your vehicle.
Once preparing the cleaning solution as per the mixing direction start cleaning your toy. Give heavy dirt settled on fenders and bugs a presoak treatment and then rinse with jet of water to clean off the loosened dirt. Use a clean sponge or cloth so it doesn’t scratch the chrome or the paint.
Give a thorough rinse to the bike, give a little rubbing, but an extra wash and rinse is any day better than rubbing for the reason that it will dull the shine of the paint or scratch the chrome. But so said, when water is scarce give a gentle rubbing to the heavily soiled areas. Clean the hidden areas as well to ensure it’s absolutely free of dirt. Ensure that the cleaning solution is washed off the bike. Give another rinse job and if there is run off of the water with no signs of beading your bike needs a thorough polishing; however, with the manufacturer recommended polishes.
Clean the wheels with separate rag and rinse the wheels again separately. Wipe the bike off the water with dry and soft cloth. Avoid doing this under direct exposure to sun to prevent any streaking.
Never use a dryer or air compressor to dry the vehicle as it might grit the finish and cause irreparable damage. Use a cloth to dry rather than a blower or a dryer. Clean the leather saddle (if) with the manufacturers recommendations.
Once the bike is clean you can pamper the tyres if you desire. Give some oil treatment to the chain with the recommended oil. With so much bike spa treatment your bike is ready to carry your lazy body again, but now with more shine and beauty.
You got all those bike accessories as because you liked the way they changed the look of your bike; whether it is the shiny chrome, or the dual tone graphics on it, or even extra beautiful paint. These could set your bike apart in a crowd and give it a special identity like you have in your work place. While you receive all that pampering do you pay back to your bike? In fact let me tell, even a 1lakh bike will be great on road if its dirty and an decade old bike can still be shining and attracting second looks- all in the maintenance.
I am going to give you a few tips in bike cleaning and hopefully with the pampering it receives it will never let you down:
If you have had a long drive the bike needs a cool down time period before you head for a washing episode. It allows the engine to cool down. If not there could be streaking, damage to chrome and spotting and at times even crack of the engine as well. Look for leaks if any and wear of the tyres, any loose bolts and even hoses, and give a thorough look at other areas which sometimes take your attention to otherwise neglected things.
Cleaning Equipment Required: The list of soaps, waxes and cleaning agents is almost endless and if you are a little careful you can do a hell lot with a good brush, clean rags, and some water. But so said, I would suggest that you pick a cleaning solution that is tailor made for bikes. Inappropriate cleaners will get on saddle, blue the chrome and get on the paint. Thus, use products that will not cause problems as regards to spoiling the finish or discoloring it. Remember cheap cleaning products will only harm your vehicle.
Once preparing the cleaning solution as per the mixing direction start cleaning your toy. Give heavy dirt settled on fenders and bugs a presoak treatment and then rinse with jet of water to clean off the loosened dirt. Use a clean sponge or cloth so it doesn’t scratch the chrome or the paint.
Give a thorough rinse to the bike, give a little rubbing, but an extra wash and rinse is any day better than rubbing for the reason that it will dull the shine of the paint or scratch the chrome. But so said, when water is scarce give a gentle rubbing to the heavily soiled areas. Clean the hidden areas as well to ensure it’s absolutely free of dirt. Ensure that the cleaning solution is washed off the bike. Give another rinse job and if there is run off of the water with no signs of beading your bike needs a thorough polishing; however, with the manufacturer recommended polishes.
Clean the wheels with separate rag and rinse the wheels again separately. Wipe the bike off the water with dry and soft cloth. Avoid doing this under direct exposure to sun to prevent any streaking.
Never use a dryer or air compressor to dry the vehicle as it might grit the finish and cause irreparable damage. Use a cloth to dry rather than a blower or a dryer. Clean the leather saddle (if) with the manufacturers recommendations.
Once the bike is clean you can pamper the tyres if you desire. Give some oil treatment to the chain with the recommended oil. With so much bike spa treatment your bike is ready to carry your lazy body again, but now with more shine and beauty.
tips to avoid scratches on bike
1. Whenever you are to park your bike in a tight parking lot, make sure you always park it on its main (centre) stand and not on its side stand. This is because, when you park with the side stand, your bike is easily prone to be touched by the neighbouring bike when the person takes his/her bike out thereby getting scratched.
2. Apply a coat of Teflon periodically so as to avoid the minor scratches (atleast).
3. Whenever possible, try avoiding very busy parking areas. When you are not busy, park it in some free area a little far away and walk the mile. (Good for health too..!!)
4. When the number of scratches is more, making the bike look really bad, there is nothing to panic. There are so many spray painters in almost all the cities. Try discussing with them on re-painting on that particular area alone. Out of my personal experience I tell you, it works out really well.
5. You also have spray paint in small cans at very affordable prices (mostly, it doesn’t exceed 300 bucks). If the scratched area is very small, this would prove to be an apt solution. But, be very careful in using them. The problem with these paints is that they don’t get adhered onto the body as you spray it. It usually clots downward, thereby creating a mark all along the body. So, use them on surfaces where clotting would be minimum..
6. There are more chances of your bike getting scratched during service. Might sound odd, but true. Careless handling and lack of space results in getting your bike scratched. So, tell them about this issue and give it for service.
7. In traffic signals, do not try to push yourself into every single gap. This is where most scratches happen. If it’s true that you love your bike a lot, don’t attempt to do it.
8. Riders having a R15, Fazer, Karizma, Pulsar 220 and other such bikes with side fairings need to drive carefully because it is this part that projects outside the body. Especially, when you get down from some other bikes and get on to this. This is when you don’t get the feel of extra projections. Don’t take this light, it’s happened to my pal.
9. Do not wipe your bikes with clothes other than soft ones. These days, you get separate soft cloth to wipe bikes. Hardly, costs you a hundred bucks. Worth the penny.
10. Last but not the least, Clean your bike regularly. Wipe it immediately when you find come bird-droppings. This may lead to scratches if not wiped off.
2. Apply a coat of Teflon periodically so as to avoid the minor scratches (atleast).
3. Whenever possible, try avoiding very busy parking areas. When you are not busy, park it in some free area a little far away and walk the mile. (Good for health too..!!)
4. When the number of scratches is more, making the bike look really bad, there is nothing to panic. There are so many spray painters in almost all the cities. Try discussing with them on re-painting on that particular area alone. Out of my personal experience I tell you, it works out really well.
5. You also have spray paint in small cans at very affordable prices (mostly, it doesn’t exceed 300 bucks). If the scratched area is very small, this would prove to be an apt solution. But, be very careful in using them. The problem with these paints is that they don’t get adhered onto the body as you spray it. It usually clots downward, thereby creating a mark all along the body. So, use them on surfaces where clotting would be minimum..
6. There are more chances of your bike getting scratched during service. Might sound odd, but true. Careless handling and lack of space results in getting your bike scratched. So, tell them about this issue and give it for service.
7. In traffic signals, do not try to push yourself into every single gap. This is where most scratches happen. If it’s true that you love your bike a lot, don’t attempt to do it.
8. Riders having a R15, Fazer, Karizma, Pulsar 220 and other such bikes with side fairings need to drive carefully because it is this part that projects outside the body. Especially, when you get down from some other bikes and get on to this. This is when you don’t get the feel of extra projections. Don’t take this light, it’s happened to my pal.
9. Do not wipe your bikes with clothes other than soft ones. These days, you get separate soft cloth to wipe bikes. Hardly, costs you a hundred bucks. Worth the penny.
10. Last but not the least, Clean your bike regularly. Wipe it immediately when you find come bird-droppings. This may lead to scratches if not wiped off.
10 Most Practical Tips On Protecting Your Bike Against Theft
Original Source: 10 Most Practical Tips On Protecting Your Bike Against Theft from BikeAdvice.in
There are exclusive expert teams all over the world which specialises the act of stealing motorcycles. There are many reasons for bikes to be stolen. “Any stolen vehicle is abandoned, sold or used for crimes later. In seventy five per cent of crimes, bikes are used as getaways by criminals. For example, recently in all the chain snatching incidents and angadia loots, thieves used bikes for the purpose,” said a senior city police official.
Here are a few facts on bike theft:
1. The rate of bike theft is almost twice the rate of car theft.
2. More or less half of the motorists have the habit of not locking their bikes.
3. Out of the total bikes stolen, hardly 26% is recovered.
4. As much as 60% of the bikes are dismantled into parts and are sold.
5. Believe me or not, a professional thief can steal a bike in less than just 15 seconds and it is a fact.
Do not panic. There are solutions to keep our bikes away from the hands of these culprits. Here are a few practical tips.
1. Anti-theft security system: Firstly, install a branded anti-theft security system to your bike. These as most of you know is remote controlled, which deducts vibrations on your bike when the ignition is turned off and starts producing noise to shoo away the thieves; it alerts you as well. You can get one such installed in the showroom itself. Almost all showrooms these days does it Cost varies between 800 to 1500 bucks. Xenos is a trustable brand when it comes to bike security systems.
2. Fork lock: Add a fork lock to the front wheel of your bike. It prevents your bike from moving along either direction. When parking, lock it and go. It doesn’t look odd too and adds up to the security as well.
3. Lock your bikes first: Check out the second fact that is mentioned above. More or less half of the motorists have the habit of not locking their bikes. You have to inculcate the habit of locking your bike when going elsewhere. There exist no alternative to this primary solution. Consider it your duty and execute them.
4. Install original locks: When a situation arises wherein you need to remove your lock assembly and go for a new one, have no second thought; Proceed straight to the showroom to get an original one installed.
5. Chain your bikes: Stock locks are the easiest to break and take away your bike. This is because, they are damn used to it that they can do it just like that. Keep this in mind. So, chain your bikes to some pillar or post nearby. Though might sound to be a cheap and on outdated idea, you still have to.
6. Demand a jobcard: When giving your bikes for customization or repairs wherein you will have to handover your bike to them do not forget for God’s sake to demand a jobcard or a receipt bearing your bike’s number and model. There are those small shops in every city which professionally steal your bike in this way. Beware!
7. Be within the visual reach of your bike: You will find particular areas in almost every big city which deals only with automobile spares and jobs. When you ought to park your bike in such areas, be within the visual reach of your bike. Else, within minutes it’ll be dismantled and taken away.
8. Park properly: Avoid parking your bikes on streets near your home. Try parking in a garage.
9. Avoid bike stands: Avoid leaving your bike in bike stands for a long instance. Pretty risky. If you frequently do it, develop a personal touch with the guy out there. The best thing you can do is this.
10. Insurance: Last but not least, have your bike insured up to date. Anything might happen anytime. It’s better that we stay on the safe side.
There are exclusive expert teams all over the world which specialises the act of stealing motorcycles. There are many reasons for bikes to be stolen. “Any stolen vehicle is abandoned, sold or used for crimes later. In seventy five per cent of crimes, bikes are used as getaways by criminals. For example, recently in all the chain snatching incidents and angadia loots, thieves used bikes for the purpose,” said a senior city police official.
Here are a few facts on bike theft:
1. The rate of bike theft is almost twice the rate of car theft.
2. More or less half of the motorists have the habit of not locking their bikes.
3. Out of the total bikes stolen, hardly 26% is recovered.
4. As much as 60% of the bikes are dismantled into parts and are sold.
5. Believe me or not, a professional thief can steal a bike in less than just 15 seconds and it is a fact.
Do not panic. There are solutions to keep our bikes away from the hands of these culprits. Here are a few practical tips.
1. Anti-theft security system: Firstly, install a branded anti-theft security system to your bike. These as most of you know is remote controlled, which deducts vibrations on your bike when the ignition is turned off and starts producing noise to shoo away the thieves; it alerts you as well. You can get one such installed in the showroom itself. Almost all showrooms these days does it Cost varies between 800 to 1500 bucks. Xenos is a trustable brand when it comes to bike security systems.
2. Fork lock: Add a fork lock to the front wheel of your bike. It prevents your bike from moving along either direction. When parking, lock it and go. It doesn’t look odd too and adds up to the security as well.
3. Lock your bikes first: Check out the second fact that is mentioned above. More or less half of the motorists have the habit of not locking their bikes. You have to inculcate the habit of locking your bike when going elsewhere. There exist no alternative to this primary solution. Consider it your duty and execute them.
4. Install original locks: When a situation arises wherein you need to remove your lock assembly and go for a new one, have no second thought; Proceed straight to the showroom to get an original one installed.
5. Chain your bikes: Stock locks are the easiest to break and take away your bike. This is because, they are damn used to it that they can do it just like that. Keep this in mind. So, chain your bikes to some pillar or post nearby. Though might sound to be a cheap and on outdated idea, you still have to.
6. Demand a jobcard: When giving your bikes for customization or repairs wherein you will have to handover your bike to them do not forget for God’s sake to demand a jobcard or a receipt bearing your bike’s number and model. There are those small shops in every city which professionally steal your bike in this way. Beware!
7. Be within the visual reach of your bike: You will find particular areas in almost every big city which deals only with automobile spares and jobs. When you ought to park your bike in such areas, be within the visual reach of your bike. Else, within minutes it’ll be dismantled and taken away.
8. Park properly: Avoid parking your bikes on streets near your home. Try parking in a garage.
9. Avoid bike stands: Avoid leaving your bike in bike stands for a long instance. Pretty risky. If you frequently do it, develop a personal touch with the guy out there. The best thing you can do is this.
10. Insurance: Last but not least, have your bike insured up to date. Anything might happen anytime. It’s better that we stay on the safe side.
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