Classic Legends has launched its third brand – an iconic British brand called as BSA, which at one time was also the biggest brand in the world – in India on the eve of the 78th Independence Day. 

The launch of BSA brand – that was born in Birmingham (England) and is also known as the Birmingham Small Arms Company – is accompanied by the launch of the Gold Star 650 cc classic looking motorcycle, the first units of which were shipped to the UK from the manufacturing plant at Pithampur (near Indore) in late 2022. 

Tasting success un markets of Europe, Turkey, New Zealand and Philippines, the Gold Star 650 motorcycle is a modern piece of engineering that reflects the DNA and brand recall of the iconic British motorcycle brand that BSA was until it went into oblivion.   

Of the opinion that bringing BSA to India is about sharing a piece of world motorcycling history with India, Anand Mahindra, Chairman, Mahindra Group, mentioned at the launch of the Golda Star 650, that the indomitable spirit of BSA, a brand built in the fires of battle is imbued in the new Gold Star. The motorcycle embodies the essence of motorcycling excellence," averred Anupam Thareja, Co-founder of Classic Legends Pvt Ltd. “Every detail, from the tank's iconic shape to the engine's big single character, has been meticulously crafted to capture the spirit of BSA's golden age while delivering the performance, reliability, and innovation that define a global brand. We've poured our hearts into ensuring it lives up to the storied legacy that has set the gold standard for generations worldwide,” he elaborated. 

Touted as India’s biggest single cylinder motorcycle with a bore of 100 mm, the BSA Gold Star is quite understated in its styling. The BSA museum in Birmingham was involved in getting the motorcycle to have the right DNA. A DNA that would resurrect the experience of what the iconic BSA motorcycles were to ride and cherish before the brand stalled.

The liquid-cooled engine with a displacement of 652 cc produces a peak power of 45.6 PS and a peak torque of 55 Nm. The single-cylinder unit was developed by the Technical University of Graz (Austria) while Rotax offered a starting point. It snuggly fits into a frame that was developed by Ricardo Motorcycles of UK. 

With Redline Studios of UK doing the design and styling of the motorcycle, the Classic Legends R&D centre in Pune (India) played a major role in integrating the motorcycle with deep localisation level.

The consideration from the start was to build a heritage motorcycle with British design that is modern yet of the single cylinder kind since that to be a Gold Star. To go with the idea, best-in-class components were sourced such as the Brembo brakes with dual channel ABS. 

Flaunting aluminium Excel rims and Pirelli tyres, the Gold Star 650 motorcycle can attain a top speed of over 160 kmph (100 miles). 

What is the biggest highlight is the NVH. It is far superior than anticipated, according to a company source, and was achieved through much engineering effort that would mean moving the engine oil sump away from under the crankcase. This, he explained, helped get the ergonomics right. To ensure that the tank, seat and other components fell into place the way they should have. 

Getting the ergonomics right facilitated low CG and in-turn a superior NVH, he quipped. Stating that a silent chain was used with three guides, he explained that a balancer shaft was also fitted to aid NVH. 
Particular attention was also given to get a flat torque curve so that it is at home in Indian riding conditions. 

With a five-speed transmission and a light action clutch, the Gold Star 650 is claimed to offer a consistent throttle response rather than be a bit jerky or bit unpredictable. With particular attention to ride and handling, the BSA Gold Star motorcycle was subjected to a series of virtual and field validations (and testing) to achieve the desired results. 

No less than 500,000 km of cumulative endurance testing was carried out in India and UK; 1000 cumulative hours of engine testing was carried out; 100,000 cumulative km of roller bed testing was carried out, and 200,000 km of road testing was carried out. 

Replete with features such as a 12-volt socket and USB charging port and adjustable rear shock absorbers, the BSA Gold Star is priced at INR 2,99,00 ex showroom. It will be available at select 40 dealerships out of the 400 dealerships that Classic Legends has as part of its retail channel network starting with immediate effect. 

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Zelio E-Mobility has announced its first major sports partnership, joining Punjab Kings as the team’s Official EV Partner for the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The agreement includes branding rights, digital media integration and in-stadia activations throughout the tournament. The company intends to use the platform to increase brand awareness in Tier 2 markets and support its expansion across India.

As part of the association, the manufacturer will showcase its X Men 2.0 and the newly released X Men+ models. These electric two-wheelers will be featured across various team touchpoints, including jersey branding and social media campaigns. The partnership follows Zelio E-Mobility’s recent initial public offering, which raised INR 783.4 million to fund its growth operations.

The company currently maintains a network of over 350 dealer outlets across 20 states and union territories. Its portfolio includes electric two-wheelers under the Zelio brand and the Tanga line of e-rickshaws, serving a total customer base of more than 200,000 riders. The management indicated that the partnership aligns with a strategy to invest in brand equity alongside its manufacturing scaling.

Kunal Arya, Managing Director, Zelio E-Mobility, said, “Cricket continues to be one of the most powerful platforms to connect with audiences across India. Our association with Punjab Kings allows us to engage with a wide consumer base while strengthening Zelio’s brand presence in a culturally relevant environment. As we scale our operations, such partnerships play a role in aligning visibility with growth momentum.”

Saurabh Arora, Chief Commercial Officer, Punjab Kings, said, “We are delighted to welcome Zelio Electric Scooters as our Official EV Partner for the season. This partnership reflects the growing synergy between sport and sustainable innovation. As a franchise, we are committed to aligning with forward-looking brands that resonate with today’s consumers, and Zelio’s focus on electric mobility and accessibility makes them a strong strategic fit for Punjab Kings. Through this association, we aim to create meaningful fan engagement while contributing to the broader narrative around clean and responsible mobility.”

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Pune-headquartered two-wheeler and three-wheeler major Bajaj Auto has announced a price reduction for the Dominar 400, making the motorcycle more accessible at INR 203,214 (ex-showroom Delhi).

The updated model is equipped with a 350cc engine and is priced approximately INR 37,000 lower than the previous iteration. This adjustment results from a lower upfront cost and the passing of GST benefits to customers without altering the vehicle's touring capabilities.

The motorcycle is designed to function as an all-rounder, suitable for both daily commuting and long-distance travel.

By repositioning the Dominar 400, Bajaj Auto aims to increase the adoption of sports and touring motorcycling in India. The mechanical specifications are intended to maintain the power and endurance associated with the Dominar nameplate while lowering the total cost of ownership for enthusiasts.

This strategic shift follows the company's objective of democratising the touring segment. The new price point is expected to attract riders transitioning from lower-capacity segments who require a vehicle capable of sustained high-speed travel and comfort over distance.

Sarang Kanade, President - MCBU, Bajaj Auto, said, "Dominar has always stood for our touring DNA - powerful, capable, and built for the long road. With the new Dominar 400 with 350cc engine we are staying true to that promise while making it significantly more accessible. Riders get the same Dominar experience they love, but now with a much lower cost of ownership, including meaningful savings. This is a decisive step towards democratizing touring and sports motorcycling in India."

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Ducati India has initiated the brand's global 100-year anniversary celebrations with an exclusive DRE Track Day at the Buddh International Circuit (BIC). Founded in 1926, the Italian manufacturer is marking a century of operations with a series of events intended to engage its community of owners.

The gathering at BIC saw over 70 riders participate in track sessions, while 150 enthusiasts attended a concluding evening event.

The track day provided owners with open sessions and three levels of structured training comprising Intro, Evo, and Master categories.

These were conducted by certified instructors including Rishi Agarwal, Anand Dharmaraj and Dilip Lalwani, the latter of whom holds the lap record for a production superbike at the circuit. The event was further highlighted by the first Indian performance from official Ducati stunt rider Emilio Zamora, who conducted a showcase for the assembled participants and their families.

Ducati has operated in India for over a decade and currently maintains a network of nine dealerships alongside two exclusive service workshops in Goa and Ahmedabad. The Indian market is a component of the brand's broader growth strategy in Asia, focusing on the premium motorcycle segment.

Bipul Chandra, Managing Director of Ducati India, stated, “As Ducati commemorates 100 years globally, India stands as a crucial market where the brand’s passion continues to intensify year after year. The DRE Track Day at BIC, coupled with Emilio Zamora’s electrifying performance and our sundowner celebration, is more than an event; it represents a celebration of our community, our rich heritage, and the distinctive thrill that defines every Ducati. Our Ducatisti are central to all our endeavours, and this centenary year is dedicated to fostering their connection with the brand through unforgettable experiences.”

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Pune-headquartered two-wheeler and three-wheeler major Bajaj Auto has reintroduced the Pulsar 180 motorcycle in India, citing consistent demand from riders and social media interest.

The reintroduction coincides with the 25th anniversary of the Pulsar brand, which launched in 180cc and 150cc formats in 2001. The updated model now features new graphics and integrated technology to align with current market standards.

The updated motorcycle incorporates a light-emitting diode (LED) headlamp, LED blinkers and a digital console with Bluetooth connectivity. Bajaj Auto has positioned the vehicle as a transition for owners of 150cc to 160cc motorcycles, providing a shift in performance and design. The Pulsar 180 is intended to maintain the balance between sport-oriented riding and daily commuting that established the nameplate's presence in the segment.

Engineering updates for this iteration focus on refined performance and modernised electronics while retaining the styling characteristic of the original series. The inclusion of connected features via the digital console allows for smartphone integration, a feature increasingly common in the performance commuter category.

Sarang Kanade, President, MCBU, Bajaj Auto, said, “The Pulsar brand has always stood for pushing limits and redefining performance motorcycling in India. The return of the Pulsar 180 is a response to the strong and consistent demand, as well as a groundswell of love on social media. As we mark 25 years of Pulsar, bringing back this iconic nameplate feels especially meaningful. Reimagined for a new generation, it continues to embody our ‘Definitely Daring’ philosophy combining power, precision and contemporary design to deliver an experience that is both exhilarating and accessible.”

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