Upcoming two-wheeler launches in January 2024

As the new year unfolds, a mere three days have passed, and we've already experienced noteworthy launches in the two-wheeler segment, including the Kawasaki ZX-6R and Kawasaki Eliminator 450. Despite these recent unveilings, the excitement continues, with several highly anticipated motorcycle and scooter launches scheduled for this month. Here is a list of the upcoming two-wheeler debuts to watch out for.

Ather 450 Apex

Ather Energy has confirmed the launch of the new performance-focused 450 Apex in India on 6 January, 2024. The bookings for are already underway, with customer deliveries are scheduled to begin in March 2024.

The Ather 450 Apex will benefit from a new Warp+ riding mode, along with Eco, Ride, and Sport, modes. It is likely to get a more powerful electric motor exceeding the power output of the 450X, which stands at 6.4kW. As a result, expect a quicker 0-40kmph acceleration compared to the 3.3 seconds of the 450X. The 450 Apex may also boast a higher top speed of 100kmph as against 90kmph of its sibling. On the flip side, its performance-focussed character could affect the range. For example, the 450X has a certified range of 150km, while the true range is 110km. That said, the upcoming 450 Apex is anticipated to command a higher premium of Rs 15,000-25,000 over the 450X.

Royal Enfield Shotgun 650

While Royal Enfield has not announced the launch date for the new Shotgun 650, the newest member in its 650cc line-up is expected to arrive sometime later this month. The India-spec model could be available in four colours: Stencil White, Green Drill, Sheetmetal Grey, and Plasma Blue. The brand recently revealed a list of 31 accessories.

The Shotgun 650 stands out with its distinctive appearance, such as a new headlamp cowl, differet fuel tank, new exhaust, re-positioned footegs, and reworked fenders. Plus, it gets USD front forks, twin rear-shocks, dual-channel ABS, semi-digital cluster, and more. Its prices are expected to start at Rs 3.30-3.40 lakh.

Hero Xoom 125 R and Xoom 160

Unveiled at EICMA 2023, the Hero Xoom 160 and Xoom 125 R are the upcoming sporty scooters targeted at young buyers. To start with, the 125 R has a sporty bodywork, sharp cuts and creases, large 14-inch alloy wheels, and vivid dual-tone paint job. It comes with Bluetooth-enabled digital instrument console, all-LED lighting, and car-inspired dynamic indicators. The new Xoom 125 R is expected to be launched this month with prices ranging between Rs 85,000-95,000.

Another new offering from Hero's Xoom family will be the Xoom 160, featuring a maxi-scooter-style design with angular and sharp panels, split LED headlights, a tall windscreen, and 14-inch alloy wheels. It comes powered by a 156cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine with Hero's i3s engine idle start/stop system.

Hero's Xoom 160 boasts block-pattern tyres, telescopic front forks, dual rear shock absorbers, and a single-disc setup at the both ends. Plus, there are modern features, such as a smart key with keyless ignition, smart find, remote seat opening, and more. This sporty scooter could be priced Rs 1.40-1.60 lakh.

Hero's HD X440-based motorcycle

Not only the new Xoom 160 and Xoom 125 R, but Hero is also readying an all-new Harley-Davidson X440-based motorcycle. This new Hero motorcycle is likely to leverage the new 440cc, single-cylinder, air/oil-cooled two-valve engine mated to a six-speed gearbox from X440. In the Harley-Davidson's motorcycle, this motor makes 27.37PS at 6,000rpm and 38Nm of torque at 4,000rpm. Having said that, Hero is expected to re-tune the engine and gearbox to suit for its purpose.

Further, the new 440cc Hero could feature all-LED lighting, an all-digital display with Bluetooth connectivity, USD front forks, 17-inch wheels at both ends, and perhaps the same 320mm single front disc, and a 240mm single rear disc as the X440. The prices of the new motorcycle may range between Rs 2.30 lakh and Rs 2.60 lakh.

Honda NX500

Honda's new NX500, a renamed CB500X, gets a new design and updated engine. In fact, the CB500X was on sale in the country for a while. The new model is likely to make its way to the market this month with an expected price tag of around Rs 6 lakh. In terms of design, there is a new face with new lights and a large windscreen, a new taillamp, and angular fairing. In international markets, Honda offers the ADV in three colours: Grand Prix Red, Matt Gunpowder Black Metallic, and Pearl Horizon White.

The NX500 boasts a new five-inch display with Bluetooth connectivity, Honda Selectable Torque Control, Showa SFF-BP USD front forks, an updated rear monoshock, a slip-and-assist clutch, dual-channel ABS, 296mm dual front disc brakes, and a 240mm rear single disc brake. It comes powered by a 471cc, parallel-twin, liquid-cooled engine producing 48PS and 43Nm of torque. This motor is paired with a six-speed gearbox.

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