The dynamic and progressive F 900 R roadster conveys a sense of freedom while the adventure sports tourer F 900 XR offers a mix of sportiness and touring capabilities. The two new bikes are an amalgamation of sports-style design and dynamics coupled with awe-inspiring performance. 

Arlindo Teixeira, acting President, BMW Group India said, “BMW Motorrad has brought the world’s finest premium motorcycles to India and created a distinct place for itself among motorcycling enthusiasts. With the introduction of the dynamic duo – the all-new BMW F 900 R and the all-new BMW F 900 XR – BMW Motorrad is set to redefine and captivate the popular mid-range segment in India at a truly attractive value proposition. The dynamic roadster BMW F 900 R is a precise and intuitive bike offering purist riding fun at all times. The adventure sports tourer BMW F 900 XR’s unique performance combined with powerful design interprets long-distance riding in a distinctive and future-oriented style of a genuine XR. The sporty riding fun, straightforward handling and a unique range of equipment options on both these bikes will be a value-added package for the ultimate thrill-seekers.”

The 900 R is available in Black Storm Metallic and in Style Sport Hockenheim Silver metallic/Racing Red paintwork. The 900 XR is available in Light White and Style Sport Racing Red paintwork.

The all-new BMW F 900 R and the all-new BMW F 900 XR will be sold and serviced through the BMW Motorrad authorized dealer network, present across important centres in India including Delhi (Lutyens Motorrad), Mumbai (Navnit Motors), Pune (Bavaria Motors), Chennai (KUN Motorrad), Bengaluru (Tusker Motorrad), Ahmedabad (Gallops Autohaus), Kochi (EVM Autokraft), Hyderabad (JSP Motorrad), Indore (Munich Motors), Lucknow (Speed Motors), Chandigarh (Krishna Automobiles), Jaipur (Pratap Motorrad), Raipur (Munich Motors), Kolkata (OSL Prestige), Cuttack (OSL Prestige)  and Ranchi (Titanium Autos). Test rides and deliveries will be initiated in accordance to all government directives post the lockdown period.

The F 900 R roadster packs a powerful punch with its inimitable styling and performance. The LED headlamp, muscular fuel tank, attractive trim elements and characteristic roadster proportions of the front and rear give it a mature presence on the road. The compact underfloor silencer further supports this crisp look.

The F 900 XR’s design reflects pure performance and the promise of long-distance travelling comfort with a riding position that is active yet relaxed. The striking light guides of the newly developed LED headlight emphasise the commanding nature of the bike. The fairing along with precise edges define the bike’s aggressive design while the slim and short tail invokes its athletic nature.

Bothe the bikes are powered by a water-cooled 4-stroke in-line 2-cylinder 895 cc engine with four valves per cylinder, two overhead camshafts and dry-sump lubrication. With an output of 105 hp at 8,500 rpm and a maximum torque of 92 Nm at 6,500 rpm, the engine enhances sporty riding dynamics and pleasure. The high torque engine offers just the right speed range to get the most fun out of the power. The motorcycles sprint from 0–100 km/hr in just 3.6 seconds and achieve a top speed of over 200 km/hr.

In terms of the suspension, the motorcycles are based on a completely newly developed concept and set a technological benchmark in the mid-range segment. The bridge frame integrates the 2-cylinder in-line engine as a load-bearing element and is made of deep-drawn and welded sheet steel parts. Front wheel control is taken care of by an upside-down telescopic fork, while the rear wheel is guided by a double-sided swinging arm with central suspension strut. The bolt-on steel rear frame has also been newly developed in order to create a visually short and slim rear. The short underfloor silencer renders a typical athletic look with a free-standing rear wheel.

Both bikes offer ‘Rain’ and ‘Road’ riding modes as standard. In ‘Rain’ mode, throttle response is gentler and the control characteristics of ABS and traction control allow optimal grip on wet and slippery road surface. In ‘Road’ mode, the engine offers optimum throttle response, while ABS and traction control are set to achieve ideal performance. Both motorcycles feature a high-performance brake system for precise braking.

The two bikes feature a best-in-class large 6.5-inch colour TFT screen with BMW Motorrad connectivity as standard, wherein the variety of information, display quality and user-friendliness are unmatched. Riders can easily connect their smartphone, helmet equipped with BMW Motorrad Communication System with the bike and conveniently make phone calls, listen to music and navigate during their travel. In addition, the BMW Motorrad Connected App offers handy arrow-based navigation suitable for day-to-day use directly via the TFT screen. The multi-controller on the left-hand handlebar panel enables quick, safe and convenient screen operation.

The bikes offer high level of safety to riders with standard features such as anti-lock braking system (ABS), automatic stability control (ASC), anti-hopping clutch and cast aluminium wheels.

The F 900 XR Pro variant offers additional features such as the Cruise Control, Gear Shift Assist Pro and Dynamic ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment) which allows riders to switch between suspension settings while riding and further enhance riding experience and comfort. (MT)

Italian superbike maker Ducati has introduced the Formula 73 in India, a limited-series motorcycle restricted to 873 numbered units globally at INR 2 million (ex-showroom).

Interestingly, the entire allocation reserved for the Indian market has sold out.

The Formula 73 pays tribute to the 1973 750 Super Sport Desmo, incorporating a silver and aqua green livery, a vertical gold stripe on the fuel tank, clip-on handlebars with bar-end mirrors, a tapered tail, and billet aluminium components.

It is powered by an air-cooled 803 cc Desmodue L-twin engine with desmodromic distribution, the vehicle delivers 73 horsepower at 8,250 rpm and 65.2 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm. The powertrain is paired with a Termignoni silencer and a Ride-by-Wire throttle system. The chassis utilises a steel trellis frame finished in aqua green, 17-inch spoked wheels fitted with Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres and an electronic package featuring cornering braking systems, traction control, directional quick-shifting and dual riding modes.

Bipul Chandra, MD, Ducati India, said, "The Formula 73 is a rolling masterpiece that pays homage to one of the most significant motorcycles in our history, the 1973 750 Super Sport Desmo. We are incredibly proud to secure a highly exclusive allocation of these limited-edition motorcycles for our passionate Ducatisti in India. With only 873 units produced globally, the arrival of the Formula 73 offers a rare opportunity for Indian collectors to own a piece of timeless Italian heritage seamlessly blended with modern Ducati performance."

Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, has signed a strategic partnership with ERMAR Sociedad Anónima, operating as Distrito Moto, to manage its sales and service network across Guatemala.

The partnership links Hero MotoCorp's vehicle manufacturing with ERMAR's retail operations in Central America. The network spans over 220 distribution points, incorporating more than 60 Distrito Moto sales locations and over 140 Tecno Fácil outlets across the country.

The operations provide vehicle distribution, replacement parts, service support and customer financing through Solvensa. Hero MotoCorp will provide a five-year or 60,000-kilometre warranty across its product line, which includes plans to introduce models such as the Hunk 250R, Xpulse 210, Hunk 150 Xtec ABS and Xoom 125.

Sanjay Bhan, Executive Vice-President of Global Business, Global Product Planning and Global Market Insights, Hero MotoCorp, said, "Guatemala is a strategic market where over 100,000 customers have placed their trust in Hero. Our partnership with Distrito Moto, backed by the strength of ILP Group and Distelsa, reinforces our long-term commitment to these riders and our growth ambitions in Latin America. With a global legacy of engineering excellence, world-class products and a proven track record of delivering quality, reliability and customer-centric experiences, Hero is well positioned to create greater value for riders in Guatemala. With the planned introduction of the Hunk 250R, Xpulse 210, Hunk 150 Xtec ABS and Xoom 125, we look forward to meeting the evolving aspirations of Guatemalan customers."

Javier Lainez, Commercial Head, Distrito Moto, said, "Our ambition is to make Hero ownership accessible and rewarding for more Guatemalans. Through competitive pricing, financing options from Solvensa and dedicated customer support, we want riders to feel confident at every step - from choosing their motorcycle to keeping it running reliably."

Italian superbike manufacturer Ducati has launched the Hypermotard V2 and Hypermotard V2 SP motorcycles in India at prices starting INR 1.65 million and INR 2.07 million, respectively, with bookings open across its dealership network.

The fourth-generation model features a technical platform, powered by an 890 cc twin-cylinder engine that generates 120 horsepower at 10,750 rpm and 94 Nm of torque at 8,250 rpm. The engine incorporates variable intake valve timing and weighs 54.4 kg.

A monocoque frame using the engine as a structural element, combined with a double-sided aluminium swingarm, reduces total vehicle weight by 13 kg on the standard variant and 14 kg on the SP variant compared to the predecessor. The motorcycles feature a six-axis inertial measurement unit controlling cornering braking systems, traction control, wheelie control and directional quick-shifting functions.

The track-focused V2 SP includes Öhlins suspension components, Brembo M50 braking calipers, forged aluminium wheels, carbon fibre body panels and a lithium battery.

Bipul Chandra, Managing Director, Ducati India, said, "We are immensely proud to introduce the Hypermotard V2 and V2 SP to the Indian market. This motorcycle is a true testament to Ducati's commitment to pure riding emotion, bringing supermotard agility and thrilling performance directly to the streets. The new V2 engine, the incredibly light monocoque chassis and the advanced electronics are engineered for one purpose to offer an unparalleled, adrenaline-fueled experience. For the discerning Indian enthusiast who demands both dynamic urban agility and track-ready excitement, the Hypermotard V2 is not just a motorcycle; it's the ultimate fun bike.”

TVS Motor Compay-owned British marquee brand Norton Motorcycles has received the Red Dot: Best of the Best distinction at the 2026 Red Dot Award: Design Concept within the cars and motorcycles category.

The award recognises the Manx R model, reflecting the brand's design direction under its current resurgence strategy. The motorcycle features proportions, surface treatments, integrated components and detailing developed by the in-house design and engineering teams alongside Professor Gerry McGovern OBE, Chief Creative Advisor to Norton Motorcycles and Simon Skinner, Head of Design.

The recognition follows a previous award at the 2026 International Design Excellence Awards and accompanies a global retail concept developed in collaboration with Foster + Partners.

Simon Skinner, Head of Design at Norton Motorcycles, said, "Best of the Best is the strongest recognition Red Dot can give, and it belongs to every member of the team which brought the Manx R to life. What makes this win especially powerful is that the jury did not recognise design in the abstract. It recognised a fully resolved motorcycle that customers can now see, touch and ride. With the Manx R, we set out to create a motorcycle with unmistakable presence, where proportion, reductive design and every detail contribute to its desirability. This recognition celebrates the creativity and commitment of our team, and our ambition to bring a distinctive expression of modernity to motorcycling."