Suzuki Unveils 2021 GSX-S1000, India Entry Unlikely

Suzuki Unveils 2021 GSX-S1000, India Entry Unlikely

Suzuki has unveiled the specifications of the 2021 GSX-S1000 naked motorcycle that is set to be launched internationally in June.

Visually, the new GSX-S1000 is subject to new bodywork and lighting, with a focus on sharp, angular and aggressive lines. The super naked is available in traditional metallic triton blue, a new mechanical matt grey, and stealthy gloss black colour options.

Further complementing the looks are textured radiator shrouds, MotoGP-inspired winglets, and side panels that feature an urban camo-inspired design. The vertically-stacked LED headlight, apart from setting an intimidating posture, also provides great visibility. There’s a new LED taillight, too, flanked by LED indicators on both sides.

Mechanically, the inline four-cylinder engine produces more power and a broader spread of torque in the lower rev ranges to deliver ideal naked sports bike performance. Fundamental changes include a new intake, exhaust camshaft, valve springs, clutch, and an exhaust. An additional catalytic converter ensures the Japanese superbike meets Euro 5 emissions requirements; this, paired with the new electronic throttle body kit, results in unparalleled refinement through the rev range.

  • 2021 GSX-S1000 gets a new look, with sharp, aggressive bodywork and futuristic LED lighting design.
  • An updated, Euro 5 compliant 152PS inline four-cylinder engine with enhanced mechanical changes.
  • Gets new electronics, including a quick-shifter and auto-blipper, selectable engine maps and more levels of traction control.
  • Gets a larger fuel tank and wider-set handlebars.

Suzuki’s Clutch Assist System partially disengages to reduce negative engine torque and mitigate the effect of engine braking when downshifting from high RPM. This helps prevent the rear wheel from locking up or hopping and provides smoother deceleration, enabling the rider to shift down with greater confidence and maintain better control when downshifting into corners.

The GSX-S1000 comes with an updated ride-by-wire throttle making it possible for riders to more accurately and finely control the relationship between throttle actuation and engine response. The Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS) allows riders to choose from one of three engine maps, all of which deliver the same peak power, but at varying aggression, depending on the riding conditions or personal preferences.

Performance is enhanced thanks to a bi-directional quick-shifter, which reduces the need to operate the clutch during gear changes or close the throttle on upshifts or blip it on downshifts. A new traction control system comprises five modes that can also be switched off. All the information is displayed on an updated and easy-to-read LCD dash.

The skeleton of the highly capable motorcycle is a twin-spar aluminium chassis mated to a rigid, GSX-R-derived swingarm for agile, sporty performance and handling. The new 23mm wide tapered bars are set 20mm closer to the rider to improve comfort without compromising handling.

Fully adjustable KYB front forks and a preload and rebound damping adjustable rear shock take care of suspension duties, while 310mm front discs are paired with Brembo monobloc callipers to ensure confident braking. A larger, 19-litre fuel tank returns a range of close to 194 miles and the tyres are custom-engineered Dunlop Roadsport 2 models. (MT)

 

Ather Energy Targets To Double Experience Centres To 700 Touchpoints

Ather Energy

Bengaluru-based electric two-wheeler manufacturer Ather Energy has announced its ambitious plans to double its retail network to 700 experience centres by FY2026.

For context, Ather Energy currently operates 351 experience centres in India and 24 centres in Nepal and Sri Lanka. Furthermore, 46 percent of the retail touchpoints are in South India alone. The expansion is part of the EV maker’s strategy to provide first-hand experience of the product, quality and peace of mind to customers.

The company with the recent launch of Rizta e-scooter targeted for families, is now looking to scale up its presence across the country, including tripling its store count in north markets. The Rizta, Ather’s first family scooter had recently crossed 100,000 units retail sales milestone within a year of its launch. The e-scooter has become popular in key states including Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha and Chhattisgarh. Rizta alone now contributes to nearly 60 percent of Ather’s total sales, unlocking new cities and bringing in a wider base of family buyers, setting the stage for a much stronger retail presence in the coming months.

Ravneet Singh Phokela, Chief Business Officer, Ather Energy, said, “Rizta’s phenomenal success has opened up new markets and brought a much larger set of family buyers into the Ather ecosystem. We’re seeing demand coming in from cities where our footprint was previously limited, and that gives us the confidence to scale faster. Expanding to 700 Experience Centres is about staying ahead of this demand curve and ensuring that wherever our customers are, they have easy access to the full Ather experience.”

At present, the company operates over 3,578 fast-charging points across India through the Ather Grid. The EV maker is also expanding its service footprint along with the expansion of its retail network across India, including Gold Service Centres in key cities.

Ather Energy currently has two manufacturing plants in Hosur, Tamil Nadu, one each for vehicle assembly and battery manufacturing and an upcoming third manufacturing facility in Bidkin, AURIC, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, Maharashtra, which will scale up its manufacturing capacity to 1.42 million electric two-wheeler per annum.

Triumph Speed T4 Gets New Baja Orange Colour Scheme

Triumph Speed T4

Triumph Motorcycles India has launched a brand-new colour ‘Baja Orange’ for its best-selling Speed T4 motorcycle, which it said is inspired by the glow of desert dawns and the vibrancy of golden hour rides.

The Baja Orange Speed T4 400cc will be available at INR 205,000 (ex-showroom) and will continue to be powered by 400cc engine producing 31 PS @ 7,000 rpm and 36 Nm @ 5,000 rpm. Mechanically, it remains unchanged and continues to have a low-end torque in the range of 3,500 – 5,500 rpm. It features a slipper clutch for easy downshift, dual-channel ABS and 43 mm telescopic forks.

The Speed T4 sports a 3D badge, new frame colour and tyre stripe pattern.

The British motorcycle brand is experiencing significant momentum, posting an impressive 30 percent YoY growth from FY2024 to FY2025 for the Speed T4.

TVS Launches 2025 Apache RTR 200 4V With Racing-Inspired Upgrades

TVS Apache RTR 200 4V

TVS Motor Company has launched the 2025 Apache RTR 200 4V, marking two decades of the brand’s racing legacy and celebrating a 6 million-strong global community of riders.

The new Apache RTR 200 4V features key mechanical and aesthetic upgrades, including OBD2B compliance, a 37mm Upside Down (USD) front suspension for improved control and a hydroformed handlebar that enhances handling stability. The motorcycle also sports refreshed graphics and bold red alloy wheels, offered in three colour options – Glossy Black, Matte Black, and Granite Grey.

Under the hood, the bike continues to deliver 20.8 PS at 9,000 rpm and 17.25 Nm of torque at 7,250 rpm. It’s equipped with dual-channel ABS, three ride modes (Urban, Sport, and Rain), a slipper clutch, adjustable brake and clutch levers, TVS SmartXonnect with Bluetooth and voice assist and a fully digital display with LED headlamps and DRLs.

First launched in 2016, the Apache RTR 200 4V has consistently introduced segment-first innovations, setting benchmarks in performance and safety.

Vimal Sumbly, Head Business – Premium, TVS Motor Company, said, “The upgraded 2025 TVS Apache RTR 200 4V continues this legacy – pushing the limits of design and engineering to offer next-generation riders a thrilling, track-bred experience on every ride.”

The 2025 TVS Apache RTR 200 4V is now available at dealerships across India, with prices starting at INR 153,990 (ex-showroom, Delhi).

Suzuki 2025 GSX-8R Motorcycle Is Now OBD-2B Compliant

Suzuki GSX-8R

Suzuki Motorcycle India (SMIPL), the two-wheeler subsidiary of Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan, has introduced the OBD-2B compliant 2025 Suzuki GSX-8R motorcycle at INR 925,000 (ex-showroom Delhi).

The motorcycle continues to be powered by a 776cc parallel twin DOHC 4-valve-per-cylinder engine paired with a 270-degree crankshaft. It gets Suzuki’s patented Cross Balancer, which reduces vibration during the ride.

It also gets Suzuki Intelligent Ride System, Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS), the Suzuki Traction Control System (STCS), Ride-by-wire Electronic Throttle System, Bi-directional Quick Shift System, Suzuki Easy Start System and Low RPM Assist. The Suzuki GSX-8R is equipped with a six-speed transmission and Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS).

Deepak Mutreja, Vice President – Sales & Marketing, Suzuki Motorcycle India, said, “The OBD-2B update on the GSX-8R enhances its performance with improved emission monitoring, keeping it aligned with the latest regulatory requirements. This ensures that customers continue to enjoy a refined and responsive riding experience that also meets evolving environmental standards.”

It comes equipped with Hitachi Astemo (SHOWA) SFF-BP inverted front forks, paired with a Hitachi Astemo (SHOWA) link-type mono-shock rear suspension with preload adjuster. For braking, the motorcycle gets dual four-piston radial-mount front brake callipers with 310 mm outer diameter dual discs. It rides on lightweight cast aluminium wheels with Dunlop RoadSport 2 radial tyres.