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Showing posts from October, 2024

Royal Enfield Interceptor Bear 650: Why does it even exist?

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  The Royal Enfield Interceptor Bear 650 is a fascinating addition to the 650cc lineup, and it raises the question: why does it even exist? Let's delve into the reasons behind its creation and what sets it apart from its sibling, the Interceptor 650. A Nod to Scrambling Heritage The Bear 650 draws inspiration from the rugged world of scramblers and off-road riding. Named after Eddie Mulder, the youngest champion to conquer the challenging Big Bear run in the California desert in 1960, the Bear 650 is designed to handle light off-road adventures. This heritage is evident in its design and features, which are tailored for a more adventurous riding experience.   Distinctive Design and Aesthetics The Bear 650 stands out with its scrambler-style design. It features a two-into-one exhaust system, which not only gives it a unique look but also increases torque to 56.5 Nm at 5,150 rpm, compared to the Interceptor's 52 Nm. The bike comes in five vivid paint schemes Boardwalk Wh...

Citroen Basalt: Does it really lack in features?

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The Citroen Basalt has been making quite an impression in the compact SUV market since its launch. However, there's been some debate about whether it truly lacks in features compared to its competitors. Let's take a closer look at what the Basalt offers and see if it holds up to scrutiny. Design and Exterior Features The Citroen Basalt sports a bold and modern design, drawing inspiration from the C3 Aircross. It features LED headlights, LED DRLs, and a sleek tail light setup. The exterior is complemented by a body cladding that runs from the front to the rear bumper, giving it a rugged yet stylish appearance. The Plus variant even comes with front fog lamps and a silver skid plate for added flair. Interior and Comfort Inside, the Basalt offers a spacious and comfortable cabin. The white and black theme is both elegant and practical, with decent-quality materials used throughout. The Plus variant features a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android ...

2024 KTM 250 Duke: Why does it feel like a complete motorcycle?

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  Ah, the 2024 KTM 250 Duke—a bike that turns heads and quickens pulses, capturing the hearts of motorcycle enthusiasts everywhere. It's not just another bike; it's a complete package that ticks all the right boxes. Let's explore why the 2024 KTM 250 Duke feels like a complete motorcycle, blending performance, style, and practicality in an impressive manner. Striking Design: Aesthetic Excellence From the moment you lay eyes on the 2024 250 Duke, its aggressive and sharp design commands attention. The sleek bodywork, sculpted tank, and exposed trellis frame scream performance and style. The bike’s LED headlights with split-type LED DRLs from its elder sibling (390 Duke) and menacing looks, not only enhance visibility but also add to its modern appeal. The minimalist rear end with its compact tail light complements the sporty stance, making it a head-turner whether parked or in motion. Power-Packed Performance Underneath that eye-catching exterior lies a powerhouse. The 2024 ...

2025 Husqvarna Vitpilen 801: Is it KTM 790 Duke in new clothes?

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  The 2025 Husqvarna Vitpilen 801 has been making waves in the motorcycle world, and many enthusiasts are curious to see how it compares to its sibling, the KTM 790 Duke. Both bikes share much in common, but some key differences set them apart. Let's dive into a detailed comparison to see if the Vitpilen 801 is just the 790 Duke in new clothes or if it stands independently.   Design and Aesthetics The Vitpilen 801 takes design inspiration from Husqvarna's Swedish heritage, featuring a sleek and modern look. The LED projector lens headlight with a surrounding light ring gives it an unmistakable appearance. The bike's lines are clean and minimalistic, with a tapered seat for easy access and movement. The overall design is more understated than the aggressive and sporty look of the KTM 790 Duke.   Engine and Performance Both the Vitpilen 801 and the 790 Duke are powered by a 799cc parallel-twin engine. The Vitpilen 801 produces around 95 hp, while the 790 Duke delivers 101.8...

Should you tour on an Aprilia RS 457 in India?

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  The open road, a powerful machine beneath you, the wind whispering secrets of the route ahead—sounds like a dream, doesn’t it? This dream can be made a reality, and for many, it often is with a robust touring bike. But what if your steed is not an archetypal tourer but a sporty, adrenaline-pumping machine like the Aprilia RS 457? Can you embark on a long-distance tour in India riding this very bike? Buckle up—because the answer lies in exploring the capabilities, challenges, and sheer thrills of touring India on an Aprilia RS 457. The Heartbeat of the Beast: Aprilia RS 457 Before diving into the tour specifics, let's understand what the Aprilia RS 457 brings to the table. This sporty marvel embodies the essence of Italian engineering prowess, combining agility, power, and aesthetics. Equipped with a liquid-cooled, twin-cylinder engine delivering a potent 47 horsepower, the RS 457 promises to keep the adrenaline junkies sated. Its lightweight chassis, aerodynamic design, and top-n...

Renault Triber x Maruti Suzuki Ertiga x Kia Carens: Which MPV can rule the urban jungle?

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  Navigating the urban jungle requires a vehicle that seamlessly combines functionality, comfort, and style. The market for Multi-Purpose Vehicles (MPVs) in India is particularly vibrant, with numerous models vying for dominance. Among them, the Renault Triber, Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, and Kia Carens stand out as top contenders. But which one can truly rule the urban landscape? Let's dive into an in-depth comparison of these three MPVs to determine the best fit for city life.   Renault Triber: Compact Efficiency Design and Space The Renault Triber is a compact MPV designed with urban efficiency in mind. Its modular seating configuration allows for seven seats, making it versatile for different needs—whether you're shuttling kids to school or taking the family out for a weekend getaway. Despite its compact footprint, the Triber offers decent interior space, with smart storage solutions and adequate legroom.   Performance and Handling Under the hood, the Triber sports a 1.0-li...

2024 Nissan Magnite: Is it really a ‘Facelift?’

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The Nissan Magnite has been a popular choice in the subcompact SUV segment since its launch in late 2020. With the recent facelift, Nissan has introduced several updates to keep the Magnite competitive in the market. But how does the 2024 Nissan Magnite stack up against its pre-facelift model? Let's dive into a detailed comparison to find out.   Exterior Design: Fresh and Modern The 2024 Nissan Magnite features a refreshed exterior design, giving it a more modern and premium look. The front grille has been redesigned with gloss black detailing and prominent chrome trims, adding a touch of sophistication. The front bumper now includes a faux skid plate and larger fog lamp housing, enhancing its rugged appeal. Chrome elements nearly touch the headlamps, unlike its predecessor. Overall, the facelifted Magnite looks more stylish and contemporary.   Interior Upgrades: Enhanced Comfort and Technology The 2024 Magnite boasts a new theme with improved materials and finishe...

Should you consider the 2024 Kia Carnival over Luxury SUVs in India?

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When it comes to choosing a vehicle that combines luxury, practicality, and advanced features, the 2024 Kia Carnival stands out as a compelling option. A comprehensive test drive showcased several strengths of this full-size multi-purpose vehicle (MPV). It offers a unique blend of attributes that make it a superior choice compared to many luxury SUVs available in the Indian market. Here’s my in-depth look at what makes the 2024 Carnival a standout vehicle. 1. Spaciousness and Comfort One of the most significant advantages of the Kia Carnival over luxury SUVs is its spacious interior. The Carnival is designed to accommodate up to seven passengers comfortably, with ample legroom and headroom in all three rows. This is a stark contrast to many luxury SUVs, where the third row is often cramped and suitable only for children. The Carnival’s seats are designed for maximum comfort, with options for premium leather upholstery and ventilated seats. The second-row seats are configured as...