Bajaj Platina launched

Hi, all. This is the full text of the Bajaj Platina's release press release. The motorcycle is destined to fill the gap between the entry-level motorcycle CT100 and the 125cc commuter, Discover. Here goes:

All New Motorcycle redefines benchmarks
in the 100cc segment

Mumbai, 8th April 2006: Bajaj Auto Ltd, India's premier two-&-three-wheeler automobile company today introduced the "Platina" which is all set to redefine current benchmarks in the highly competitive 100cc motorcycle market.

At first glance, the most striking thing about the new Platina is its unique styling. The new Platina in gleaming Platinum silver colour comes with sleek chrome graphics, chrome streaked blade design side panels, matt finish black silencer with chrome heat shields to turn heads around. The Alloy wheels, the annular chrome rings housed in a sporty console with the graphite-tint engine and transmission complete the stylish package. The MFR lens and clear lens blinkers further makes the world glow. This is certainly an exclusive package that overshadows other options.

The Platina further has the best of technologies to ensure superior comfort and performance. The motorcycle comes with the unique SNS suspension and ExhausTEC engine, to deliver class leading 8.2 bhp power and extraordinary mileage of 108 kmpl (under standard test conditions).

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. S Sridhar, VP Marketing (Two Wheelers), Bajaj Auto Ltd said, "The launch of Platina will redefine current standards & will further strengthen Bajaj Auto's presence in the large 100-110cc segment. Our R&D team has ensured that Platina will delight our customers with superb style, excellent performance and exceptional mileage. This bike has the potential to redefine the consumer expectations and segment volumes for the company. This new launch will certainly help us to continue to outpace industry growth in 2006-07 "

The base version of the Platina is priced at Rs 34,000/- while the hi-end version with alloy wheels is available for Rs.36,000/- (both ex-showroom Delhi). This package of style, performance and value offers a unique combination to the 100 cc motorcycle customers.

Bajaj Auto is by far the market leader in 150cc+ 'Performance' segment of motorcycles with 61% Q4 market share contributed by the Pulsar DTS-i twins and Avenger DTS-i. The Discover DTS-i also leads the 125 cc segment with 45% market share in Q4 2005-06. The Platina joins the highly successful Discover and CT 100 in the 100-110cc class to aim for a dominant share in this segment as well. end

The press release did not have the full specs, so here they are:

Bajaj Platina

ENGINE
Type : 4 stroke, Air cooled, SOHC, Single cylinder, four-stroke
Displacement: 99.27 cc
Maximum Power: 8.2 bhp*/Ps (6.03 kW) @7500
Maximum Torque: 8.05 Nm (0.82 Kg-m) @4500
Bore x Stroke: 53 x 45
Compression Ratio: 9.5 : 1
Valve train: SOHC 2 Valves
Valves per cylinder: 2 Valves
Power to weight ratio: 73.21 bhp/tonne
Starting: Kick Start

CHASSIS
Type: Single down tube with cradle

SUSPENSION
Front: Telescopic Forks 125mm Stroke
Rear: 'SNS', 5-way adjustable, Hydraulic Shock
Absorbers, travel 100mm
Castor angle: 27 degrees

BRAKES
Front: 110mm/130mm Drum (Alloy wheel version)
Rear: 110mm/130mm Drum (Alloy wheel version)

WHEELS
Tyre size (Front): 2.75 X 17"
Tyre size (Rear): 3.00 X 17"

DIMENSIONS
Length: 1994 mm
Width: 751mm
Height: 1086mm
Wheelbase: 1277mm
Saddle height: 805 mm
Kerb weight: 112kg

WARRANTY
2 year/30,000 km with optional extendable warranty of 1 or 2 years

PRICE
Ex-showroom Pune: Rs 34 & 36,000 (spoke/drum and alloy/disc variants)