India-specific Launches At EICMA 2023

The Royal Enfield Himalayan 452 was definitely the standout of the lot

• Royal Enfield unveiled its most modern bike ever, the Himalayan 452. 
• Ultraviolette was next, who put on display the F99, its most extreme bike ever. 
• And then it was Hero who showcased an adventure scooter and even a dirt bike! 

Among all the EICMA 2023 action, if you’re confused as to which bikes will be coming to India, fret not! Here’s a quick list of all the bikes and scooters that will eventually make their way to India: 

Royal Enfield Himalayan 452

Royal Enfield stole the spotlight at EICMA 2023 with the grand unveiling of their latest adventure motorcycle, the Royal Enfield Himalayan 452. Following its recent debut in India and the subsequent release of specifications, global pre-bookings have officially begun. According to B. Govindarajan, CEO of Royal Enfield, the bike is set to hit European markets in early spring 2024, with an anticipated Indian launch during the Rider Mania 2023 (now known as Motoverse 2023) in Goa, starting November 24.

This ground-breaking model marks Royal Enfield's foray into liquid-cooled engines, representing a significant advancement in both design and performance over its predecessor, the Himalayan 411. Boasting a robust output of 40PS and 40Nm, the Himalayan 452 surpasses its predecessor by 14PS and 8Nm, respectively. Indian enthusiasts can secure their piece of adventure with pre-bookings open at an initial token amount of Rs 10,000.

Ultraviolette F99

Ultraviolette Automotive, a testament to India's prowess in electric motorcycle manufacturing, unveiled the latest iteration of the F99 Factory Racing Program at EICMA 2023. Surpassing expectations set by its predecessor at the Auto Expo 2023, the race-spec F99 introduces a liquid-cooled powertrain, delivering an impressive peak power output of 90kW and claiming the title of India's fastest electric superbike. Manufactured in India, this electric marvel accelerates from 0-100kmph in a mere 3 seconds, attaining a top speed of 265kmph.

Equipped with innovative features such as winglets and ducts for active aerodynamics, the F99 sets new standards. 'Air Blades,' the electronically actuated winglets on the side panels, dynamically adjust to lean angles, enhancing downforce during cornering. With these cutting-edge elements, Ultraviolette cements its position at the forefront of electric bike technology.

Hero MotoCorp

Hero MotoCorp made waves at EICMA 2023, revealing a plethora of exciting announcements. That included the Xoom 125R and the Xoom 160 adventure scooter. In fact, there was even a stunt bike concept and even dirt bikes! 

Among the unveiled concepts, the 2.5R Xtunt concept took center stage, designed specifically for stunt riding enthusiasts. Featuring a liquid-cooled engine, likely a 250cc unit inspired by the Hero Karizma XMR, this concept signals Hero's commitment to innovation. Noteworthy elements include active aerodynamic technology and a unique 'Follow me drone' functionality. The concept boasts a trellis frame, inverted fork, gas-charged mono-shock at the rear, and disc brakes at both ends, promising an exhilarating riding experience.

Vida

Under the Vida brand, Hero MotoCorp showcased two compelling electric concepts - Lynx and Acro. 

Vida Lynx: This electric dirt bike stands out with a sharp and sleek design, reminiscent of true-blue dirt bikes. The collaboration with Zero Motorcycles is apparent in its design. The highlight of the Lynx concept is its feather-light weight, tipping the scales at just 82kg.

Vida Acro: Designed as an electric off-roader for kids, the Acro concept features a three-point adjustable frame, ensuring a perfect fit for young riders aged 3-9 years. This electric off-roader reflects Hero's commitment to providing exciting and accessible options for the next generation of riders.

Honda NX500

Talking about the Japanese brands, Honda was the first to announce a couple of bikes. Now while it did bring back an icon like the CBR600RR, the India-relevant bike was definitely the NX500, the bike that will be replacing the Honda CB500X. We rode the CB500X in 2021 and found it to be a very likable motorcycle indeed. So we expect it to be the same with the NX500 too, given that the engine hasn’t been altered.

Other changes include styling changes, making it look more like a sports tourer along with a TFT console. As lovely as the CB500X was, its LCD console looked very dated, so this new TFT should serve as a fresh upgrade that the bike badly needed. That said, we wish the bike came with 17-inch wheels to further boost its handling capabilities. 

Kawasaki 500cc Bikes

Kawasaki, alongside Honda, showcased its prowess at EICMA 2023 with the introduction of the Ninja 500 and Z500. Replacing their predecessors, the Ninja 400 and Z400, both bikes boast a new 499cc parallel-twin engine. Although specific power figures are yet to be disclosed, Kawasaki assures compliance with A2 license restrictions, limiting power to 35kW (47.6PS).

Highlight features of these bikes include LED lighting, keyless ignition, and a TFT console akin to the one found on the Ninja 650 and Z650. Building on the versatility of the Ninja 400, the new 499cc engine promises to uphold its predecessor's excellence. As anticipation grows, potential Indian enthusiasts can expect a premium price tag over the Ninja 400 when and if these models hit the Indian market.