New Stylish Shine by Honda

Here's a bit of an odd official note on the new Honda Shine. It certainly is more forthright than most to-be-made-public company documents (like press releases), and yet, the English is beautiful. I'm still reeling more than a fair bit from the arbitrary hypens, capitalization and the staunch refusal to expand the ampersands into proper 'ands'

In the pics, like the new Unicorn, the Shine does look better. I have no way of knowing so far whether Honda changed the gearing or sprocketing on the Shine to remove the rather heavy initial-mid bias and give the bike some much needed top end. That aside, say hello to the latest cosmetic upgrade...

Oh and lest I forget, when you do click on the photos of the official brochure note the following:

• Now with added style
• The cheerleaders and the frisky brass band
• Pink flowers?

Official note:

New Stylish Shine by Honda

HMSI launched its second motorcycle Shine with Kick start in April-May 2006 and with Self start in October 2006. Its performance is very well appreciated by customers and is evident from the fact that, Shine received "Customers Voice Award" & "Best Bike in 125cc class".

Today, the Indian Motorcycle market is changing very fast. Existing Shine could not meet Customers' expectations on Style and hence HMSI decided to come-up with new variant of its Motorcycle-Shine.

There are 4 variants viz. 1) Self Disc Alloy 2) Self Drum Alloy 3) Kick Drum Alloy & 4) Kick Drum Spoke. Along-with the advanced Honda engine with Optimax technology, Primary Kick, puncture resistant Tuff-up Tube & Ergotec design, the New Stylish Shine has following features.

• Alloy Wheels
• Single Tone colours
• New Graphics

It is targeted towards younger customers who want more style; but do not compromise on performance. It fulfills need of the customers to do more in life & gives them recognition in their groups/families instead of just show-off.

The New Stylish Shine, undoubtedly delivers the best performance in terms of Pick-up & Mileage besides offering a very smooth & comfortable ride.

Currently, Shine sells at 13000 Nos. average per month. With the New Stylish Shine, HMSI plans to increase this volume to 15500 Nos.

Ex-Showroom prices of the New Stylish Shine are as below.

Town	Ex-showroom	Price (Rs)
	Self Disc Alloy	Self Drum Alloy	Kick Drum Alloy	Kick Drum Spoke
Mumbai	50523.59	48531.00	46025.71	43638.72
Pune	48253.27	46337.38	43927.10	41631.78
Bangalore	48538.53	46641.60	43633.24	40988.19
Chennai	48295.00	46385.00	43412.00	40598.40
Hyderabad	48017.43	46120.18	43116.51	40500.42
Culcutta	48949.00	47052.00	44047.00	41226.73
Delhi	48313.73	46417.65	43408.82	40268.63

More Shine images from the Honda India Shine Home page

Honda Shine local launch

Yesterday, I had the rare privilege of visiting the Mumbai launch of the Honda Shine. A relatively low-key, low-class event organised by a bunch of dealers it would seem. Or at least, it seemed that they paid for it, at the behest of Hondas's regional sales team. It was held at Lotus Suites, a 5-star hotel near the Mumbai International Airport. At the roof top. My, that sounds cool. But it isn't. Because Mumbai is never cool. And second because if does nay matter if you switch off the twelve tall neon sign that looms over the proceedings and screams darkly,'Lotus.' A floating password to some sinister event in the middle of the dark sky...

The event began with a dapper (sic) young (sic) compere opening the proceedings with the usual blast of be-still-your-beating-hearts, never-befores and the like. In a dash of personally added enthusiasm, our man strayed from the type written script and claimed that the Honda Shine would satisfy every need of a motorcyclist. Not even the R1 does that, if you know what I mean...

Then came a really classy Honda AV on the Shine. Showing lots of young riders, all with Bajaj or similar motorcycles, and all complaining of either backache, or poor ride quality, or poor fuel economy or some such. They all buy Shines and live happily ever after. Except that the thing was shot before the bike was called the Shine, so everyone refers to the bike as MC-2. Which, come to think of it, is actually a better name than the one they picked. Never did take a shine to that name, heh heh.


Then, inevitably, out came the dancing girls, followed shortly by the dancing boys. The speakers were turned up from ear-bleed to drum-explode, and the show was on. The photog they'd hired was having trouble, because the organisers were pumping enough smoke on to the stage to outdo one of our faded, old two-stroke rickshaws and sometimes, horror of horrors, the awestruck audience could not even see the girls. Big oops.

Then out out a box jumped the Shine, and after two confetti blasts (one of which nearly blew our compere apart), the girls did a jig around the bike. A few disappointed faces in the audience resulted, for the girls were now firmly behind the bike, rather than in front.

Then, all the dealers were called on stage to give away 'Sucker!' bags to customers who were the first to book the bike, some long before the final specs or news came out, even. Trust, is a thing of wonder, really.

A hilarious vote of thanks rounded off the ceremony, with the poor chap sporting a Deepak Malhotra like voice (remember? 'Pallo!') and an accent born in deepest Gujarat. Sweet.

Then, and this does not happen at press conferences, the girls were called out from three back-to-back non-stop item numbers. A whole bunch of people cheered. This time round, the speakers were so loud, I swear I saw the huge neon sign rock in rhythm to it.

I snuck out just before the official dinner call, which saw tumultuous mob of the recently suckered and other eminent guests head for the buffet, clutching the giveaway bag, which contained a six buck Honda baseball hat, a twenty buck t-shirt and a classy wooden key chain.

I gave the giveaway to office boys the next morning.

Other posts about
All the 125s: Table
Hero Honda Glamour FI: Release
Yamaha Gladiator: Images Launch Expo photos Expo text Compared to the Shine
Suzuki Heat: Expo text Expo photos Zeus Ride Report
Honda Shine: Mumbai launch TVC criticism Launch Compared to the Gladiator
TVS Victor Edge/GLX: Launch

Yamaha Gladiator versus Honda Shine

This is actually an interesting, complicated post to write. I've put more than 400 km on each bike so far, and I am a bit torn between the two. I am as surprised as you are, because I was expecting to vote for the Gladiator, and I might, but it isn't a straightforward decision.

Engine/Gearbox
The Shine has the better engine overall. The Shine's engine feels more refined, no, more engineered, more fresh and due to its early torque peak, more gutsy than the Yamaha. The Shine vibrates more than Yamaha, and it's a noticeable difference. Purely because, the Yamaha does not vibrate AT ALL. Yes, no matter what the revs, the Yamaha is more or less silent and vibe free. It is an achievement, but as you will see, not without its pitfalls.

But, the Yamaha has the classier gearbox. The Shine's four-speed box shifts all up, which is a bloody irritant. If Honda were to pay me a dollar (why bother with a Rupee in conjecture, eh?) for everytime I've found myself in neutral when I should have been in first, I'd be buying Bill Gates hi-tech house... about now. The shift quality is good, but the pattern sucks. The lever was scuffing my boots as well, so I had it hacked right off. Also, my bike seems to make a 'zero' shift now and then. The lever moves, but gets no work done. No false neutral... you're just still in the same gear. The one-down, four-up Yamaha box is just butter smooth, always sure, ever positive. Perfect.

Performance
I' m going to focus on the 'feel' of the performance, rather than the stopwatch okay? The Shine feels quicker to about 50 kph, and then the engine begins to hunt for something, anything that would give it more speed. Revving it is useless, and the quickest progress lies in shifting early and not bothering beyond, say, 65 kph. Top speed is, of course, in the 95-100 kph region, but as I said, not worth exploring. The Gladiator's power is not concentrated anywhere and so, while it feels slow, especially if you've come off the Shine, it isn't. There is always power to be had by twisting the throttle and riding it becomes pleasant because of it. However, the utterly spooky refinement makes the bike feel much slower than it is, so you're almost always going faster than you think/intend.

Braking
Both of my bikes are disc models, and between the two, there isn't much to choose. The Shine is sprung harder, but has more travel in the brake lever, while the Gladiator dives more, but the brake is sharp and alert. It's a personal choice. My choice? Gladiator, I think it feels more er... up to the task.

Ride quality
A colleague rode pillion with me to his house yesterday and the Shine felt perfect. The road was smoothed out, potholes disappeared, serenity reigned. But that was not the case when I took the same route today. Today, the road is bumpy, jittery and bordering on the harsh. Why? Because like with the Unicorn, Honda is fixated on the fact that most Indian wifes are fat. And that they follow their hubbies around all over the place, always sitting pillion. Always sideways. You know this isn't the case. But the ride quality suffers when you're alone. Travelling light on the Shine is not the smartest thing you could do.

On the other hand, Yamaha have (finally) sorted the ultra soft suspension of the Fazer, and made it hard enough to feel good, without letting the road become too intrusive. The result is a well-sprung bike that feels firm, absorbs most of the worst and still does not interfere with road feedback. This is how it's done. Even two up, the Gladiator more or less retains its stance, does not become front heavy or too firm/spongy.

Handling
The Shine's handling, expectedly, is as you would expect it to be. It goes around corner. Period. That means no drama, no excitement, total compliance, you cannot complain. But that isn't how it should be, right?

On the other hand, the Gladiator is quite possibly the best handler in the country. With most of the Fazer's chassis carried over intact, its eye-openingly good. It's friendly enough for novices but you can seriously play with it. As a colleague put it, 'this is the bike to get your knee down on. I'm sure of it. No matter how much tomfoolery I do with it in a corner, it won't bite.' And that's exactly how it is. I'd wager that falling off a Gladiator would require some serious stupidity. Or diesel in the corner (and that's not hard to come by...)

Comfort
The Fazer was the most comfortable bike in the country, so the Gladiator should be an automatic. But it isn't. The seat is good for short trips, but can prove too soft for two hours or more in the saddle. It does allow you to move around without a hitch, though. The Shine, on the other hand, is very comfortable even over longer spans, but the pillion perch sucks.

Headlight
Shine all the way. Super bright light. Gladiator is waaaay better than the insipid Fazer headlamp (a Yamaha chap actually told be two into 25W equals one 50W head lamp ).

Switches and meters
Okay, Gladiator and Shine are even. Super switches on the Shine offset the missing engine kill switch, and the engine kill on the Gladiator makes up for the flimsy, spongy feeling ex-YBX switch gear. Meters contain nearly the same info on both, so no winners here.

Fuel economy
I have not measured it, but I think the Gladiator has greater fuel economy. It also retains this property across a wider range of conditions and riding styles. The Shine responds very well to low-rev running, but raise the stakes and the numbers tumble.

Fun
Don't even mention it to the Shine. It'll blush. Gladiator all the way.

Style
Where? The Shine has no style. The Gladiator actually looks quite presentable when you see it in real life. But still, the Gladiator could have been even better looking...

After sales service/spares
Honda service used to be quite good when their sales volumes were lower. Now, they're busy... Yamaha's network has been going downhill for a while now...

Overall
If you're a regular at this blog, love motorcycles and need to choose between the two, you'd do well to test ride a Yamaha Gladiator and decide your next course of action. If you couldn't care less about motorcycles and just need a transport solution, take a bus. Or buy the Shine, whichever you prefer. Prices are almost even, though the Gladiator is cheaper by a notch.

Other posts about
All the 125s: Table
Hero Honda Glamour FI: Release
Yamaha Gladiator: Images Launch Expo photos Expo text Compared to the Shine
Suzuki Heat: Expo text Expo photos Zeus Ride Report
Honda Shine: Mumbai launch TVC criticism Launch Compared to the Gladiator
TVS Victor Edge/GLX: Launch

Honda Shine Ride Report

I finally spent a good deal of time on the Honda Shine yesterday. And I have good news, and I have bad news. What shall we start with?

The bad news? Okay.

• a) the heel-end of the gearshift nearly took a chunk off my shoe yesterday. Since I only use the toe-shifter, I got in hacked off. Anyone want the heel bit? Looks like an effective cosh.
• b) Like the Unicorn, ride quality is still on the stiff side. A journalist would say firmly suspended (what is that? A chap in traction?). It shoves fair spikes over concrete joints and only gets comfy when you load it up with a pillion.
  
• c) The motor is quiet but, when you get to 70-odd kph or higher, you keep wanting another gear, because the motor sounds just too busy. It's gonna suck on the highway big time.
  
• d) No electric start, yet.
  
• e) The bike I borrowed was maroon in colour. In that shade, the bike looks about as dull as most of today's TV programs.
  
• f) Mirrors don't have screw tighteners at the top-end of the stalks. So when they droop, they droop. My left one was flying half-mast throughout. On a 150 km example.
  
• g) No engine kill switch.
  
• h) No alloys. In the face of Bajaj's Discover, that's almost the equivalent of a slit wrist.
  
• i) Where is there a piece of pipe where my grab rail is supposed to be?
  
• j) The clincher for me. I'd never have an emotional connect with this machine.

The good news, then?

• a) The motor sounds very refined. But there's a fair bit of vibes in the grips at mid-range. I think a thirty-odd km city ride will numb/tingle your fingers. Oh shoot, that needs to go into the bad news section, right?
  
• b) The motor does sound quiet, and very effective.
  
• c) The motor makes lots of torque and feels very robust. So when you suddenly run out of puff at 65 kph, you feel frustrated and cheated. Below that, though, the Shine feels very, very happy.
  
• d) It feels okay as a handler. Not exceptional, but stable and friendly.
  
• e) The seat is comfortable for short hauls.
  
• f) Handlebar feels a bit wide, but is very comfortable.
  
• g) Love the new switches on the left side. Did keep messing with the high/low beam toggle switch a bit, though.
  
• h) Disc brake feels superb.
  
• i). Er... that's it.

Verdict
Doesn't look good for Honda yet. This products will, basically, fail to Shine. I'd zero in on a Disco or a Gladiator, I think.

Other posts about
All the 125s: Table
Hero Honda Glamour FI: Release
Yamaha Gladiator: Images Launch Expo photos Expo text Compared to the Shine
Suzuki Heat: Expo text Expo photos Zeus Ride Report
Honda Shine: Mumbai launch TVC criticism Launch Compared to the Gladiator
TVS Victor Edge/GLX: Launch

Corporate Con: Honda Shine TVC

Saw the new Honda Shine advertisement on television yesterday. Was blown away by the superb direction, awesome lighting, outstanding acting, great big horse and the nail-biting, completely fresh storyline. Made me feel humble. Who am I to judge ads?

Meanwhile, a few dozen miles away, Originality was finally laid to rest.

For those who haven't seen it, let me describe it. Non-sado-masochists, skip out here. Ad cuts to chap riding a dull purple Shiny new Honda down the road. Note orange/brown skies. In the distance, the romantic (dis)interest is trying to tame that all-surpassing king of phallic symbols, the black stallion. Obviously, the stallion escapes her wily and ineffectual tugs at the reins, and the chase is on.

Shinyman's filling fuel when he spots the escaping phallic er... horse. And he's off. The horse bolts, but the Shine chap is a speed nut. With the speedo needle in the green zone (40-50 kph), he overtakes the horse. Cut to skidding bike coming to a halt, and then cut (before logic kicks in) to horse being returned to grateful lady. Moments later, gratitude melts into love and the duo ride off, waving a cheery goodbye to the petrol pump attendant who looks quite pissed, since he didn't get paid. Blast.

Non-Sado-Maso-whatevers return here. Now replace the Shine with any (actually, make that every) Indian motorcycle ad, it still works. That's fantastic. A stand out advert, even.

Other posts about
All the 125s: Table
Hero Honda Glamour FI: Release
Yamaha Gladiator: Images Launch Expo photos Expo text Compared to the Shine
Suzuki Heat: Expo text Expo photos Zeus Ride Report
Honda Shine: Mumbai launch TVC criticism Launch Compared to the Gladiator
TVS Victor Edge/GLX: Launch

Honda launches CBF Stunner

A new Sporty Bike by Honda

Introduces first-of-its-kind features in the mass market segment -
Integrated front body cowl, Sporty split seats, Wider Tubeless tyres &
Sporty foot step holder

High performance Honda engine with 5 speed transmission

Bike to hit the market in third week of July

New Delhi, June 30, 2008: Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd.
(HMSI), the 100% owned 2-wheeler subsidiary of the Honda Motor Company,
Japan – the world's largest manufacturer of 2-wheelers, today unveiled
its latest offering "CBF Stunner" in the Indian motorcycle segment.
Targeted at youth, CBF Stunner's sharp and sporty look will
revolutionize the motorcycle market in the country.

HMSI, after the success of its 2 Motorcycles - Unicorn and Shine is all
set to charm the Indian youth with its high performance, sporty, stylish
motorcycle at an affordable price.

With increased choices, today's Indian youth is actively on a look out
for brands that have a high 'style & attitude' quotient. 'CBF Stunner'
inspired by CBR 1000 from Europe aptly fits into the category with its
design, high performance and style. The bike with its 'high-on-style'
features promises to provide its customers an ultimate experience of a
true Honda bike.

HMSI has since inception developed products that have set new benchmarks
in technology, performance, and styling to address the diversified needs
of its customers. Honda's all round quality has been a source of
enjoyment for its customers and the new offering CBF Stunner with its
style and performance is aimed at providing desired pleasure to young
Indian customer.

CBF Stunner will be available in three variants viz. Self Disc Alloy,
Self Drum Alloy & Kick Drum Alloy. Self Drum Alloy & Self Disc Alloy
will be available in four colours Sports Red, Pearl Sports Yellow, Space
Silver Metallic and Black while Kick Drum Alloy will be available in two
colours Sports Red & Black.

CBF Stunner would be available in the Indian market from third week of
July. The ex-showroom price of CBF Stunner in INR is as follows:

Cities || Kick Drum Alloy || Self Drum Alloy || Self Disc Alloy
Delhi || 47,070 || 49,820 || 51,655
Pune || 48,720 || 51,525 || 53,390
Bangalore || 48,395 || 51,545 || 52,980
Kolkata || 48,410 || 51,160 || 52,990

Salient features of CBF Stunner

Styling
Integrated Front Body Cowl:
An integrated front body cowl & voluminous fuel tank makes stunner look
muscular & sporty. It also enhances aero dynamism, thus providing an
unhindered moving stance to the rider.

Sporty Split Seat & Two Panel Sporty Rear Cowl
First of its kind in this category, sporty split seat not only adds to
the riding comfort but also enhances the overall appeal. Two panel sharp
rear cowl makes it look sporty.

Sporty Foot Step Holders
Sporty foot step holders reflecting Honda's racing bike DNA are
positioned in a way to give rider a sporty riding posture.

Performance

High Performance Honda Engine with 5 Speed Transmission
A new advanced and high performance 11 bhp Honda engine with 5 speed
transmission ensures an absolutely sensational ride. It gives an
excellent power at all speed ranges and provides superior initial
acceleration & overtaking pick up.

Wider Tubeless Tyres with Black Alloy Wheels.
First Time in its category, Tubeless tyres in front as well rear. This
enhances performance, better cornering & chances of sudden deflation of
tyres on punctures are reduced. 100/90 Wider tubeless tyre in rear adds
to the appeal. The 17" Black alloy wheels adds on to the sports
character of the bike.

Diamond Frame with Rectangular Box type Swing Arm
It adapts light weight diamond frame proven with high reliability on
Indian roads. The tough and flexible frame provides good stability in
harsh and daily use conditions. It is also equipped with harder and
stronger rectangular box type swing arm which helps in achieving high
stability, sporty performance and constant ground touch feeling.

240mm Front Disc Brake
Efficient Hydraulic 240mm front disc brake provides efficient braking
performance in all weather conditions and ensures stability at high speeds.

Sporty
The riding posture of the bike is sporty yet comfortable. The shoulders
and elbows are more inclined than the competition to give the rider a
perfect sporty posture. The folding step placed slightly backwards
provides sporty posture. Pillion's leg position is nearer to rider's
bottom which is more comfortable.

Convenience
The bike has small storage space under the seat which can be used for
storing small items such as gloves. The stylish console with trip meter
also provides convenience of keeping a track on the distance traveled
and mileage.

Present at launch were Mr. Kenji Kawaguchi, Operating Officer General
Manager, Planning Division Honda Motorcycle R&D Centre Japan, Mr. Shinji
Aoyama, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt Ltd, Mr.
Nobuhiko Takizawa, President, Honda R&D (India), Mr. Atsuhiko Takahashi,
Large Project Leader (CBF Stunner) Honda Motorcycle R&D Centre Japan,
Mr. Yuji Mizumoto, Assistant LPL, Honda Motorcycle R&D Centre, Japan
alongwith Mr. N K Rattan Head Sales & Marketing, Honda Motorcycle &
Scooter India Pvt. Ltd.

Excepts from Company officials-

Mr. S Aoyama, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt
Ltd., "Honda believes and practices the philosophy of 3 joys that is
being demonstrated through our "I enjoy" campaign to deliver utmost
customer satisfaction. HMSI is committed to provide unique experience
through its innovative products and quality in every aspect of business.
The new bike being unveiled today is one of the steps to provide
exciting products at an affordable price. The bike is a reflection of
Honda's worldwide sports bikes and we hope that Indian youngster can now
enjoy Honda's sports DNA. In India we will continue to bring exciting
products and be a full line company by 2010 starting with 100cc
motorcycles and fun bikes."

Mr. Kenji Kawaguchi, Operating Officer General Manager, Planning
Division Honda Motorcycle R&D centre, Japan, "Honda is today the world's
largest motorcycle manufacturer and one of the leading automakers. India
is an important market for Honda Motor Co. Honda is committed to the
Indian market and will go all out in providing exciting products to the
Indian market. Honda has always been in forefront in strengthening
technologies for environment conservation, safety riding and enhancing
product attributes. The newer technologies like Honda's Programmed Fuel
injection – PGM-F1 and ABS (Antilock Brake System) will soon be
installed on all Honda Motorcycles worldwide soon."

Mr. N.K Rattan, Head Sales & Marketing, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India
Pvt Ltd., "CBF Stunner is Honda's answer to Youngsters desire to own a
affordable sports bike. This new bike carries Honda's Sports DNA with
Sharp, Muscular style & high performance 11 bhp Honda engine that Indian
youth expect from Honda. This bike will be available at all dealers by
third week of July for sales. Along with this new bike, HMSI's all model
sales shall touch 10 lac units in 2008-09."

The Shining

This, ladies and gentlemen, is the new 125cc motorcycle from Honda for India. Named the Shine (Jesus, what's with the name?). Honda's press release says the motor is all-new and at the very least, it will be refined. It uses the 'Air Jacket' system like Unicorn for better cooling and has the extra long exhaust system as well. People who have seen the bike in the flesh say it is a mini-Unicorny sort of machine, quite substantial for a 125 but otherwise not even slightly anything to get excited about.

A dealer friend I spoke to said it's a non-starter. Honda intends to start sales with the kick/drum bottom version, which is bad news for dealers. They are going to have to turn away excited prospective buyers saying, 'no, it does not have electric start, disc brakes, or even alloy wheels.' To add insult to injury, the price announced appears to be in the top end of the 125cc segment.

Specs, then. The Shine displaces 124.6cc and makes a class-standard 10.3 bhp (@7500 rpm). It also makes 10.9 kgm (@5500 rpm) which is a fairly high number, no doubt the power delivery will be like the Unicorn, with a strong bottom end that comes with a slightly out of breath top end. It gets a four-speed gearbox, three-step adjustable twin shock rear suspension (What? No monoshock?). Ignition is via a multi-map digital CDI (they won't say how many maps yet). The bike is supposed to be quite quick, managing 60 kph in 5.3 seconds from standstill. It gets a puny 2.75-18 at the rear. I guess, there isn't much more to say. More after I get to ride it.

Other posts about
All the 125s: Table
Yamaha Gladiator: Images Launch Expo photos Expo text Compared to the Shine
Suzuki Heat: Expo text Expo photos Zeus Ride Report
Honda Shine: Mumbai launch TVC criticism Launch Compared to the Gladiator
TVS Victor Edge/GLX: Launch

Hero Honda Glamour FI Launch release

As usual, below I've pasted the full release. First opinions? Hideous. But then, the Glamour always was. I think the seriously messy area above the engine can't really add or take away from that (er... thank god?). The bike certainly looks silly. The rest when I swing a leg over...

Hero Honda reinforces technology leadership with India’s first
Fuel Injection motorcycle technology

Hero Honda Glamour FI will feature Honda’s first 125 cc
PGM-FI Engine (Programmed Fuel Injection)

• Programmed Electronic Fuel Injection (PGM – FI) for the best drivability & lesser gear changes in traffic
• Real time Mileage indicator (RTMI) for achieving optimum mileage
• Bank Angle Sensor – Cuts off fuel supply in case of a tip over - an industry first safety feature
• Lowest Emissions – will meet even the most stringent emission norms of the future
• No carburetor – less maintenance
• Starts easily in all weather conditions – even in very low temperatures

Mumbai, June 26th, 2006: Hero Honda Motors Ltd., the ‘World No.1’ two-wheeler company, today announced the launch of India’s first Fuel Injection technology for two-wheelers, with the 125 cc Glamour FI. The new technology eliminates the need for a carburetor, offers the most comfortable drive and the lowest emissions, in addition to a host of other features, which will be available for the first time to Indian two-wheeler riders. The Glamour FI will be launched in 2 variants – Drum Kick at Rs. 49,990/- and the fully loaded Disc Self at Rs. 53,990, ex-showroom Delhi. [roughly Rs 5500 more than the non-FI versions] and will be available in 60 towns at over 180 Hero Honda dealerships throughout the country. Hero Honda plans on extending the Fuel Injection technology to other models gradually.

Glamour FI, based on stylish 125cc motorcycle Glamour, has better fuel efficiency and ease of engine start, due to the effect of PGM-FI. Riders can view the digital real-time fuel economy indicator situated at meter face, to know the bike’s fuel efficiency at any given point of time. Its design is more refined, with its engine integrated with black color and its unique FI logo.

Speaking on this momentous occasion, Mr. Brijmohan Lall, Chairman, Hero Honda Motors said, “The Hero Honda family is elated to have set yet another precedent in the Indian two-wheeler industry. Fuel Injection Technology has till now been used in cars and is being introduced in two wheelers for the very first time in India by Hero Honda, with the help of Honda Motor Company. This is the technology of the future for all two-wheelers and we feel privileged to be the first company to offer this technology in India, with the launch of the Glamour FI.”

According to Mr. Pawan Munjal, Managing Director, Hero Honda Motors, “Today’s launch reiterates Hero Honda’s superior technological edge and pedigree of bringing world class technology to India. Through the years, we have successfully endeavored to deliver the best value proposition to our customers and we will continue to provide them with products that incorporate the most advanced technology, design and fuel-efficiency”.

The Glamour FI has a distinctive PGM - FI feature (Programmed Fuel Injection), a first in two-wheelers. This is an intelligent computer controlled electronic fuel injection system which scans critical engine operating conditions through sensors and provides input to the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) to inject the accurate amount of fuel as per the requirement. The sensors include - throttle position, engine operating temperature, intake air temperature, manifold absolute air pressure and crank angle.

The RTMI takes input on distance traveled and fuel consumed from the speed sensor and ECU and displays the average mileage for the preceding 10 seconds.

The Glamour FI has a Bank Angle Sensor, an industry first feature, is an important safety feature which cuts off the fuel supply & ignition if the bike tips over (falls). Apart from these the motorcycle has a FI Malfunction Indicator Lamp which diagnoses any malfunction of sensors and indicates the same to the rider and a LCD Fuel Gauge displays fuel level in the fuel tank which is easy to read and contemporary. Apart from the new FI technology, Hero Honda’s Glamour also showcases new body coloured grab rail and rear view mirrors.

The overall two-wheeler market in India has been growing rapidly, reaching approximately 7,300,000 units in 2005, a 15% increase from 2004. The market is expected to grow further in 2006, up to approximately 8,500,000 units, a 17% increase from 2005

[CLAIMED BENEFITS FOR PGM-FI]

• Offers improved fuel efficiency & better emission performance
• Excellent drivability owing to quick throttle response
• Excellent cold starting ability (no choke operation)
• Consistent engine performance at varying altitudes and ambience temperature
• Ability to run the bike at lower speeds on top gear without engine knocking that translates into less gear changes in congested traffic conditions.
• No starting problems after long storage periods.

[CLAIMED BENEFITS FOR RTMI (Real Time Mileage Indicator)]

• Enables the rider to know the "Real Time Mileage"
• Provides an opportunity to adjust riding style to get the optimum mileage

Full Glamour FI specs from Hero Honda:

Engine
Type
Single Cylinder Air Cooled, 4 Stroke Sohc
Valve Train
2 Valve
Displacement
124.8cc
Bore & Stroke
52.4 X 57.9 mm
Comp. Ratio
9.2:1
Starting
Kick Start / Electric Start

Performance
Max. Power
6.72 KW/9 bhp @ 7,000 RPM (no change)
Max. Torque
10.35 NM @ 4,000 RPM (no change)

Transmission
Gear Box
4 Speed Constant Mesh
Clutch
Multiplate Wet Type

Electricals
Battery
12V- 2.5AH(Kick) / 5AH(Self)
Head Light
35/35 W Halogen Bulb

Chassis
Type
Double cradle

Suspension
Front
Telescopic Hydraulic Type
Rear
Rectangular Swing Arm With Hydraulic Shock Absorber

Brakes
Front
240mm Drum Type/ 130mm Disc Type
Rear
130mm Drum Type

Tyres
Front
2.75 X 18" 42 P
Rear
3.00 X 18" 6pr, 52 P

Dimensions
Kerb Weight
Kerb Wt - 125kg (Standard)/ 129kg (Deluxe)
Wheel Base
1,265mm
Length
2,005mm
Width
735mm
Overall Height
1,070mm
Ground Clearance
150mm
Tank Capacity
12 Lts./1.5 reserve

Other posts about
All the 125s: Table
Yamaha Gladiator: Images Launch Expo photos Expo text Compared to the Shine
Suzuki Heat: Expo text Expo photos Zeus Ride Report
Honda Shine: Mumbai launch TVC criticism Launch Compared to the Gladiator
TVS Victor Edge/GLX: Launch

Not taking a Shine to it... Sorry

Rode the Honda Shine again after a really long time today. Had a big surprise. Especially since I've basically been riding a mooched Hero Honda CBZ X-Treme, and another even more mooched Bajaj Pulsar 220 DTS-Fi. Here's what I learnt

• What the...? This thing has quite a bit of vibration at city speeds. The corner cut by not adding vibe dampers wasn't a good one to cut
  
  
• It feels absolutely tiny and under-fleshed to ride. Almost malnourished. But I guess, compared to the girth of both of the other bikes I've been on, that's to be expected, right?
  
  
• The Shine's a first batch one, so I had to kick start it. I could not, for the life of me, remember the last time I kick started a motorcycle
  
  
• Brakes felt spongy too. The 220 and the XTreme both have sharper, stronger units.
  
  
• And what's with the ride quality? I thought I got bumped around a fair bit more than I remember from the last Shine ride
  
  
• I stick by what I said. I still wouldn't buy one

Copycat on carandbikeforum.com

Guess what, after the episode where one member for mouthshut.com posted my Honda Shine review (Copycat on MouthShut), my work has been plagiarised/stolen for the second time. For the record, the chaps at mouthshut were very prompt and while I don't know if a d_tanwar got a rap on the knuckles, the post disappeared within hours of my emailing them a note.

This time, my detailed Shine versus Gladiator has appeared verbatim at carandbikeforum. I have emailed the support id at carandbikeforum reporting the theft. If imitation is a form of flattery, please don't flatter me. I don't deserve it.

On the right is a screenshot from the copied post and here is the link to my original post (Yamaha Gladiator versus Honda Shine). I would like to believe that this was just a mistake and whoever posted the article fully intended to put a link to my blog but simply forgot – posting other people's work to the net is hard work. And I have told them that I'm essentially okay with them carrying this content as long as they give me a link and credit for the material.

Which is what I would have done if they had asked me if it was okay to carry that piece in the first place...

Anonymous, who told me about this in the first place. I am grateful. Thank you so much.

Et tu Zeus?

And this is the Suzuki Heat/Zeus duet, 125cc motorcycles due to be launched in India by the end of March 2006. Scroll down and look at the Honda Shine, do you spot a similarity? Yes, they're both extremely pedestrian to look at. The spec levels look low and value perceptions are going to be skewed against them by their natural bent towards premium pricing. What do these guys think? That they're in Vietnam? That Indian riders will swoon, fall on their knees and chant hail marys because the badge comes from Japan?

Two flops then?

Other posts about
All the 125s: Table
Yamaha Gladiator: Images Launch Expo photos Expo text Compared to the Shine
Suzuki Heat: Expo text Expo photos Zeus Ride Report
Honda Shine: Mumbai launch TVC criticism Launch Compared to the Gladiator
TVS Victor Edge/GLX: Launch

All the 125s compared

Here are all the new Indian 125cc motorcycles compared. They appear to be in alphabetical order, but the first two are the ones I like the most. The Bajaj Discover 125 and the Yamaha Gladiator, I think, are the ones to buy out of this lot

Parameter	Discover	Gladiator	Glamour	Heat	Shine	Victor
CC	124.52	123.7	124.7	124	124.6	124.8
Power (bhp)	11.51 @8K	10.8 @7.5K	9 @7K	8.74 @7K	10.3 @7.5K	9.2 @7K
Torque (Nm)	10.8 @6.5K	10.4 @6.5K	10.4 @4K	10.2 @3.4K	10.9 @5.5K	10 @4K
Weight (Kg)	125/129	123/127	121	110/114	119/118	117
Bhp/Litre	92.43	87.31	72.23	70.48	82.66	73.72
Bhp/Tonne	92.08	87.80	74.38	79.45	87.29	78.63
Bore (mm)	57	54	52.4	-	52.40	54.5
Stroke (mm)	48.8	54	57.8	-	57.86	53.5
Comp	9.5:1	10:1	9.1:1	9.6:1	9.2:1	9.3:1
Gears	4	5	4	5	4	4
Pattern	Down	1D4U	Up	1D4U	1D3U	Up
Starting	ES/KS	ES/KS	ES/KS	ES/KS	KS	ES/KS
Ignition	DTSi	Digital CDI	Digital CDI	Digital CDI	Digital CDI	Digi CDI
Chassis	Double Cradle	Single cradle	Double cradle	Single cradle	Diamond	Single cradle
Rake/Trail (deg/mm)	-	26/90	-	25/89	26/91.2	-
Swingarm	Box	Box	Box	-	Tubular	Box
F.Disc (mm)	No	240	240	240	240	240
F.Drum(mm)	130	150	130	130	130	130
Front tyre	2.75-17	2.75-18	2.75-18	2.75-18	2.75-18	2.75-18
Rear tyre	3.00-17	3.00-18	2.75-18	3.00-18	2.75-18	3.00-18
Length (mm)	2030	2065	1995	2040	2014	-
Width (mm)	760	730	735	770	730	-
Height (mm)	1065	1100	1095	1085	1070	-
WB (mm)	1305	1300	1265	1240	1266	1240
GC(mm)	179	160	150	-	-	-
Tank (litres)	10	13	12	-	10.5	11
Reserve	2.3	3	-	-	-	3
Price	-	41990	-	37990	-	-
Price	-	43990	-	42900	-	-

Other posts about

Hero Honda Glamour FI: Release
Yamaha Gladiator: Images Launch Expo photos Expo text Compared to the Shine
Suzuki Heat: Expo text Expo photos Zeus Ride Report
Honda Shine: Mumbai launch TVC criticism Launch Compared to the Gladiator
TVS Victor Edge/GLX: Launch

Suzuki Zeus Ride Report

I finally managed to snag a ride on the new Suzuki Zeus. In a word? Okay.

The good news

• The engine's a beaut in behaviour terms, between 2500 and 5500 rpm, it's
  a brilliant, creamy, effortless performer. Outside of that? Look in the bad news
• The powertrain is very refined. No vibes, no snatches, no snags, no jerks
  Just pure, liquid energy coursing its way to the rear wheel
  
• The gearbox shifts positively, and is very slick. Slightly notchy still, but my bike had just about 40 km on the clock when I rolled out of the showroom
  
• Grips and vibe dampers are both of exceptional quality
• Feels very stable on the brakes. Brakes well, with feel. Pricol master
  cylinder looks good too
• Mirrors are good, stay vibe free, more or less and are very adjustable for
  a superb rear view
• Seat appears to be comfy. My ride lasted a bit more than an hour. No aches
• Key is a nice one. Very similar to a Hayabusa key, they tell me
• Fairly 'thumpy' (likeable) exhaust note
• Meters looks very clean, very readable. Very er... businesslike
• Short, even stubby tank is a nice one to hug. Feels good. Tucking ankles all the way in along the leading edge of well-bulged sidepanels feels good
• Fairing looks good on it own. The four-screw fly screen looks great. Is a little lost on the black bike, though
• Decal quality is very high
• Street oriented quick turning sort of handling package. No comment on high speed stability and cornering ability yet
  

The bad news

• The engine seems to have little or no zest below 2500 and runs very obviously out of breath just past 7000 rpm. I understand that the torque peak is an unprecedented 4000 rpm and all, but running out of breath almost before stuff like the Bajaj Discover has even peaked!
• No alloys
• No electric starter model yet
• Front-end feels a bit bouncy when riding single (no comments on two up riding, none done)
• Switchgear, while comprehensive, feels below par. Especially detest, even abhor, the pass switch, feels spongy and unresponsive. Most of the time, I could not tell if the headlight came on or not. That sucks.
• The gear indicator looks gizmo-ey, and isn't of any use whatsoever. Especially with a gearbox this slick and well-tuned
• Neutral can be obstinate if you've already stopped. Very easy to get if you're still rolling, though
• Engine cowl is useless. In black, it's just too hidden to actually add/subtract from the Zeus' looks
• Sidepanels are screw type... slightly unsafe
• Indicators look a bit big, and too stodgy square. Could have been a sleeker shape
  
• Ride quality overall is a bit on the bouncy side. I'd say Disco and Gladiator definitely ride better than this. Shine is even, I think

Verdict
I'm not impressed. It isn't a poor bike by any standard, but the most attractive part of the Suzuki Zeus (and Heat) appears to be the engine. Especially in heavy to light traffic. On the open road, I can't help but think that the bike will be nowhere. Further, there are better overall packages on sale right now, and the Zeus, unlike the Heat does not even enjoy a price advantage. To make matters worse, while some parts are of noticeably higher quality than the competition, others feel below par (the chain tensioners at the end of the swingarm are HORRIFYINGLY shoddy). A bit of mish-mash really.

Outlook: I don't see Suzuki making a significant dent in the 125cc market with these motorcycles. The Heat looks very, very rural and not one city type will get caught dead on one. On the other hand, the Zeus is very anonymous to look at and I don't think quality (that too in fits and starts) alone will be enough. Er.. so sorry.

My picks in the 125? Still Disco and Gladiator.

Other posts about
All the 125s: Table
Hero Honda Glamour FI: Release
Yamaha Gladiator: Images Launch Expo photos Expo text Compared to the Shine
Suzuki Heat: Expo text Expo photos
Honda Shine: Mumbai launch TVC criticism Launch Compared to the Gladiator
TVS Victor Edge/GLX: Launch

Suzuki Heat

Well, ladies and gentlemen, I've managed to snag an entry pass to the press conference where Suzuki will officially launch the Heat and Zeus 125cc motorcycles today. So there will be pics, the full release text and stuff up here by afternoon, Indian time. Stay tuned. Meantime, you have seen my posts on the Gladiator and the headache of a table comparing the specs of all the 125cc bikes (Bajaj Discover, Hero Honda Glamour, Yamaha Gladiator, Suzuki Heat/Zeus and TVS Victor Edge/GLX), right?

Other posts about
All the 125s: Table
Hero Honda Glamour FI: Release
Yamaha Gladiator: Images Launch Expo photos Expo text Compared to the Shine
Suzuki Heat: Expo text Expo photos Zeus Ride Report
Honda Shine: Mumbai launch TVC criticism Launch Compared to the Gladiator
TVS Victor Edge/GLX: Launch

Suzuki Zeus Launch

As promised, I went. It was quite a laugh, actually. First of all, they'd already showed the Zeus at the Auto Expo 2006. So the bike under the white veil was not a new sight. Then they had a couple of Ukrainian/Caucasian chicks in skimpy non-Suzuki coloured lycra thingies come and do a fifteen minute ta-daa session for the Mumbai press photogs. That was too funny. Even despite both the girls being very nubile and all of that sort of thing.

Had a chance to speak with Takata San later. He said Suzuki intended to breach the 5,00,000 unit sales mark by... wait for it... as soon as possible. Right. Big bikes? Not anytime soon, said the man, very clear that Suzuki intends to consolidate market share before it does anything else. I think the bike will sell in small numbers but this is not going to be a commercial success that will threaten Bajaj or Hero Honda. Suzuki are claiming that the high torque engine (10 nm at just 3500 rpm) will deliver 70 kpl in real world conditions, give or take ten per cent, so that is in the ball park. Below is the full press release, verbatim.

Suzuki Unveils Zeus
~ 125 cc bike to be targeted at the youth ~

Mumbai, May 16 2006: Suzuki, the world's largest motorcycle manufacturer, today launched Suzuki Zeus, 125 cc single cylinder bike. Katsumi Takata, Joint MD, and Deepak Pandey, All India Head, Sales and Marketing, Suzuki Motorcycles India unveiled the bike in Mumbai today.

Zeus is introduced with the objective of providing the Indian consumers a refreshing new feel in the commuter market category (100-125cc) and is targeted towards young college students and executives, who want contemporary styling clubbed with excellent performance.

Speaking at the launch, Mr Katsumi Takata, Joint MD, Suzuki Motorcycles Indian Pvt Ltd said, 'Suzuki motorcycles have been indigenously developed and bear the stamp of quality and reliability that the brand is globally known for. These technological innovations are made available to our customers resulting in superior ride quality, with amazing fuel-efficiency at an affordable price. With this new generation of motorcycles, Suzuki promises to meet every expectation of consumers in terms of technology, styling and performance.'

'Zeus is an indicator of our efforts to offer world class technology adapted for the Indian conditions that offers maximum value to our discerning customers who can certainly look forward to more offerings in the future,' he added.

Zeus comes with with contemporary styling, exhilarating performance, great sensory appeal, trust, low operative cost and excellent fuel efficiency. The motorcycle will be available in 3 vibrant colours (Candy Antares Red, Pearl Nebular Black and Metallic Titanium Gold) and will have special features like round crank shaft, all aluminium engine, hi-tech spark plug, advanced transmission (5 gears), disc brake, de-compression valve, primary kick mechanism and gear shift indicators.
The futuristic air-cooled four-stroke engine, developed specially for the Indian customer, powers Suzuki's new offering. The contemporary styling, great finishing, plenty of quality chrome and thoughtful details touches like an engine guard which adds to the bike on styling front and rear foot guard for the pillion rider is going to position the new motorcycles as 'the preferred bikes.'

Zeus has been developed after extensive market research and it will reinforce the commitment and support from the parent company - Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan.

Zeus is priced competitively and provides better value by way of performance - fuel efficiency, reliability, durability etc. Zeus is available at an introductory price of Rs 46084 ex-showroom Mumbai [for the disc Zeus. Drum to be introduced later. Heat is Rs 40623 ex-Mumbai. As of May 16, 2006. Oh and that is the girl (below) who looked prettier of the two, for the record]

Other posts about
All the 125s: Table
Hero Honda Glamour FI: Release
Yamaha Gladiator: Images Launch Expo photos Expo text Compared to the Shine
Suzuki Heat: Expo text Expo photos Zeus Ride Report
Honda Shine: Mumbai launch TVC criticism Launch Compared to the Gladiator
TVS Victor Edge/GLX: Launch