Volume 7 Issue 2

July 2018 Vol 7 Issue 2 NRs. 175

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FOR THE INNER ADVENTURER IN YOU

CF MOTO 650MT TEST RIDE

CROSS OVER TO DUALITY MY AUTOLIFE

PRANAY KANSAKAR

TEST DRIVE

RENAULT CAPTUR

Ready to Capture THE Roads FEATURE: CHECKERED FLAGS IN NEPAL, MOTORCYCLE TOURING TIPS, HOW GREEN CAN YOU BE? | EVOLUTION: ROYAL HERITAGE OF THE ENFIELD IN CONVERSATION WITH: AKASH GOLCHHA (GO AUTOMOBILES PVT. LTD.) INSURANCE TALK WITH: BISSWO RAM TIMILA (NECO INSURANCE LTD.) facebook.com/AutolifeNepal LAUNCHPAD: HONDA X-BLADE, MG ZS | RIDING GEARS: JACKETS

AUTOLIFE JULY 2018 1

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ALL-NEW

GSL LX

KIA.COM.NP

2.0L PETROL ENGINE WITH 155PS XENON HEADLAMPS WITH LED DRL POWER & 192NM TORQUE

BULB-TYPE REAR COMBINATION LAMPS

5-INCH COLOUR TFT-LCD TOUCHSCREEN

3.5-INCH MONOCHROME TFT- LCD

TRUE ATTENTION TO DETAIL REAL CRASH PAD STITCHING

60:40 SPLIT FOLDING SEAT. DUAL-LEVEL LUGGAGE BOARD

JBL SOUND SYSTEM WITH CLARI-FIâ„¢ TECHNOLOGY

REAR VENTILATED A/ C

DUAL AIRBAGS ON FRONT SEATS

REAR CAMERA WITH PARKING GUIDE SYSTEM

* CONDITIONS APPLY

HEATED FRONT SEATS

EX HIGH-GLOSS BLACK PAINT

CALL US AT SALES HOTLINE FOR SPECIAL PRICE AND TEST DRIVE 9801232453

FREE ROAD TAX FOR 1 YEAR

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18 INCHES ALLOY WHEELS WITH SILVER MACHINE FINISH

TEST DRIVE AND GET ATTRACTIVE GIFT

Please visit your nearest KIA Showroom: Gairidhara: 9851094630 / 9801232454 Dhumbarahi: 9860754355 / 9851092308 Narayanghat: Aviyan Motors Pvt. Ltd 9855058750 / 9851114726, Butwal: Auto Station Pvt. Ltd 9857038949/ 9857059568 Biratnagar: Kesharichand Bhanwarlall 9802705642 / 021-461950

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“

I recently bought the Hyundai Creta just 2 or 3 months back and so far, I am loving it. Before this I used to own a smaller car and it’s my first time owning an SUV. For an SUV, Creta has amazing looks and good ground clearance but the thing that excited me the most was the sound system in this car which I enjoyed the most. The exterior and interior of the new one has a lot of improvement. Since, I am a cosmetic surgeon and recreating beauty is what I am specialized in, I can say that this car is a beauty.

Hyundai has put in a lot of effort to give the car owners a luxurious and tempting feel. For example, this car has good amounts of leg space for both the driver and passengers which I think all car should have. Another interior aspect that I love are the AC vents which flow throughout the car, even for the people at the back seat.

Since my car is new, I haven’t driven it for a long distance and it hasn’t had the need for servicing yet. But still I get calls from Hyundai now and then asking me about how the car is performing and how I feel about the car. I believe this really shows how much the company cares about its customers.

Dr. Sanju Babu Shrestha Dermatologist and Hair Transplant Surgeon, Swasti Laser and Skin Care

I have been planning to take the Creta for a long drive to Biratnagar but due to the current weather conditions and flood, I am not being able to do so. However, inside the city, the driving experience has been really pleasurable because of its ground clearance and power. Because of what the Hyundai Creta has to offer, I am pretty confident that I can take this car anywhere I want to. Also, with a higher ground clearance, I haven’t had the need to worry about the car getting into pot holes. I have not calculated the exact mileage yet but I guess it’s about 12 KM per liter which is pretty decent for an SUV. I have been really satisfied with what Hyundai has offered with the Creta and I would definitely recommend it to others as well.

ENGINE

Petrol 1.6L VTVT 4 cylinder

Displacment (CC)

1591 CC

Maximum Power (PS/RPM)

122 Bhp @ 6400 RPM

Maximum Torque (NM/RPM)

154 NM @ 4850 RPM

Clearance (MM)

190mm

Fuel Tank Capacity (L)

55

BOOT SPACE (L) 5

400

SUSPENSION (FRONT/REAR) M

MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring/Coupled Torsion Beam Axle with Coil Spring

Power assisted (Electric)

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EDITORIAL J U LY 2 01 8 VOLU M E 7 I S S U E 2

H

ey there, Buckle up cause this issue we’re feeling a little adventurous especially when CF Moto’s 650 MT is taking the limelight. We had the pleasure of riding this beast! CF Moto’s Adventure bike is packed with a punchy engine, which made it to be a ride to remember. Guess what? The fun doesn’t stop there, we also had the chance to test ride the Tekken 250. And from the test ride we can absolutely say that Motorhead’s dual sport motorcycle definitely brings a different experience to the Nepali commuter and this was one of those test rides which went totally different from what we expected. Now, going from riding to driving we have the Renault Captur which is also an exciting drive that we’ve had this issue. Spoilers: the handling of this compact SUV will surely capture you. We also have some tips to get you started on your journey into the unknown.

Alright, with the adventures aside, we bring you an exclusive interview with the Managing Director of Ford, Akash Golchha, who has hinted exciting news for Ford in the near future. And we also take a stroll down memory lane amongst the rich heritage of the longest running motorcycle company, Royal Enfield and trust us; it won’t be a history class rather it’s going be an epic story.

We also have a topic of discussion for what any motor enthusiasts have always been wondering in Nepal that being the prospects of Race tracks in Nepal. You might also want to take a look at “How green can you be?”. It’s basically an article on how you’re possibly destroying the environment through emissions and how you can help alleviate it. The funny thing is despite the fact that this subject has been floating around various media platforms; it was this article that personally made us think twice about starting an engine. This time around we also continue our Riding Gear Series, where we talk about the essentials of why a rider should invest in a proper set of safety gears and this time we cover what you should know about motorcycle jackets.

With all that’s in this month’s issue, we hope that our content helps you broaden your auto IQ and keep you on your toes with all the details of the latest and finest machines. So with that being said, until we come out with our next exciting issue, Cheers!

HEAD OF BUSINESS & OPERATIONS EDITORIAL TEAM

Keyush Shrestha Ankit R. Tuladhar Prashant Manandhar Shaquille S. Ghotane Nishant Pradhan Shreeya Sangroula Nirveek PPJ Shah

CONTRIBUTORS

Kalash Tuladhar Ashish Sinha

PHOTOGRAPHY EDITORIAL DESIGNER INTERN BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Gaurav Sunuwar Sworup Shrestha Siddhant Rajbhandari Rupesh Shrestha Biraj Shrestha

FOUNDERS/ADVISORS

Ajay Dhoj Thapa Shraddha Rajbhandari

EDITORIAL ADVISOR

Ayush Dhaubanjar

CTP & PRINT Multigraphic Press Pvt. Ltd., Kalimati, Kathmandu Tel: 01-4274651

DISTRIBUTION Kasthamandap Distributors, Tel: 01-4247241

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Autolife is an automotive magazine (DAO Regd 213/067/068), published 12 times a year by Softrock Media. All rights reserved in respect of all articles, illustration, photographs, etc published in Autolife Magazine. The content of this publication may not be reproduced on whole or in any part in any electronics or print form, in any language, without the written consent of the publisher. The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher, who cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omission.

Autolife has a dedicated review team for all test drives and rides. We research, study, plan and execute our tests and publish our real experience without any influences. We have our loyalty towards our readership and are not biased or inclined towards any specific brands or services. All advertisement insertions are a part of our marketing campaign, due to their relevance with the magazines content; and published only after authorization from clients or their respective media agencies.

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AUTOLIFE JULY 2018 7

CONTENTS T H E H IGH LIGH TS

20 Launchpad

MG ZS, New in the Compact SUV Race

24 Feature

Checkered Flags in Nepal

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26

36

For the Inner Adventurer in You: CF Moto 650MT

36 Interview

26 Launchpad

Honda X-blade in town

42 Feature

30 Test Ride

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Tekken 250, Crossover to Duality

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In Conversation with Akash Golchha, Managin ing Director at GO Auto mobiles Pvt. Ltd.

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Motorcycle Touring Tips

44 Test Ride

CF Moto 650MT, For the Inner Adventurer in you

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CONTENTS T H E H IGH LIGH TS

54

54 My Autolife

Pranay Kansakar Managing Director at P.K. Kitchen Concern Pvt.Ltd.

58 Interview

Insurance Talk with Bisswo Ram Timila, CEO at NECO insurance Ltd.

60 Test Drive

Renault Captur; Ready to Capture the Roads

66 Feature

How Green can you be?

68 Evolution

Royal Heritage of the Enfield

76 Riding Gears

Series 4: Riding Jackets

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58 68

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AUTOLIFE NEWS

AFTEK MOTORcycles to enter in NEPAL

Aftek Motors India are soon to launch their motorcycles in Nepal.

The new motorcycle company offers a range of motorcycle from commuter to performance motorcycles. Max vision Ltd. is appointed as the sole distributor of Aftek Motorcycles all over Nepal. With this being said, Max Vision Ltd. are in search of dealers in major cities who are willing to invest in the venture.

For any enquiries contact: 01-4012777, 984124573, 9858022982.

Or, www.maxvision.com.np/dealership/

SHIRO HELMETS LAUNCHED IN NEPAL SHIRO Helmets finally makes its way to Nepal. The Spanish brand has a history of more than 25 years and is officially represented in 68 countries worldwide. Best known for its premium quality while maintaining affordability, the brand warranties all of its products for 5 years. All their products comply with the most recent and strictest approval regulations whilst connecting the latest technological advances and designs.

Aaju Motors Pvt. Ltd. (AMPL) were announced to be the authorized distributor for SHIRO HELMETS S.A. (Spain) in Nepal. Aaju Motors Pvt. Ltd. have been in motorcycle helmets and accessories business since 2015 and are confident that SHIRO’s products will take the market by storm and create a new generation of safety conscious riders.

The launch event was organized at Genesis Café, Panipokhari, where they featured helmets, gloves, goggles, hand-guards, Bluetooth systems and sunglasses. Mr. Ateet Shrestha and Ms. Ashmita Shah Thakuri, have been appointed as brand ambassadors to represent the SHIRO Helmets in Nepal.

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BMW G310R AND G310GS LAUNCH CONFiRMED IN INDIA

BMW India has announced the launch date for BMW’s much awaited mid-capacity twins, the G 310 R and the G 310 GS which will be launched on 18th July 2018. Bookings for both the mid-capacity twins had started from 8th June 2018.

The 313cc BMW has liquid-cooled, single-cylinder unit with four valves and a DOHC cylinder head which chunks out 34hp of power and 28Nm of torque on both bikes and is paired to a six-speed gearbox. The bike comes with a reversed-cylinder design that slopes towards the rear wheel, instead of the conventional engine layout as similar to Apache RR310.

Both the bikes ride on 41mm inverted front forks and a rear monoshock; the GS gets 180mm of travel up front, which is 40mm more than the 310 R. The GS’ rear monoshock, travel is also set at 180mm which also gets 49mm more travel than the 310 R. Both the motorcycles feature dual-channel ABS as standard, on 300mm front and 240mm rear discs.

Duke 790 launched in Malaysia

KTM has launched the Duke 790 in Malaysia. The new Duke 790 is a replacement for the single-cylinder Duke 690.

The KTM Duke 790, nicknamed “The Scalpel”, has a 799cc parallel twin with 270-degree crank engine that produces an impressive 105hp of maximum power and 85.4Nm of maximum torque.

The Duke 790 is built around a steel trellis frame with the engine as a stressed member. The engine is mated to a six-speed transmission with a slipper clutch. The 2018 KTM Duke 790 presents a very strong competition in which other competitors should take note off. While the overall package looks, sounds and feels promising, KTM has a monumental task of labeling the bike with the right price.The 2018 KTM Duke 790 will be launched in India around 2019. facebook.com/AutolifeNepal

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AUTOLIFE NEWS

AAN Visit to Nepal Lube Oil Limited Factory

HERO XTREME INDIA PRICE REVIELED

Nepal Lube Oil Limited organized field visit to their plant in Amlekhgunj for Automechanics Association of Nepal (AAN) on 18th Ashad. Gulf, one of the leading engine oil, has been performing such events which is beneficial for both the branding of the company as well as for the consumers of the product to help better understand why Gulf is one of the leading company in-terms of quality.

19 participants from AAN (AAN’s Karya Samiti ka Padhatikari) departured form Kathmandu to Amlekhgunj on 17th Ashad.

On 18th Ashad, the participants visited the Amlekhgunj factory from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM where the manufacturing process and quality control were demonstrated to the participants of AAN to show why Gulf is the number 1 company in its quality process and manufacturing in Nepal.

Hero Xtreme 150 was a successful bang when it was launched back in 2014. Now, fast forwarding to 2018 Hero Moto Corp has stepped up its prodigal Xtreme to 200cc. The first Hero Xtreme 200R was showcased in concept form at the 2016 Auto Expo. Hero Moto Corp India has announced the price to be IC Rs.88,000, which is way cheaper as compared to other 200cc in the Indian market.

The design and dimensions seem quite familiar that has been seen on the 150cc counterpart. The side panels are larger and flows downward, the tank is sportier and chunkier in looks.

Headlight cowl has been stripped of the existing motorcycle to give this bike a more naked appeal.

The new Xtreme has a 199cc single cylinder, air-cooled, 2-valve engine which chunks out max power of 18.4 PS @ 8500 RPM and max torque of 17.1 NM @ 5500 RPM. Mated with a 5-Speed Gearbox transmission, the bike is claimed to have a fuel efficiency of around 40-45 km per liter.

HONDA JAZZ 2018 LAUNCH IN INDIA

TATA MOTOR ANNOUNCES “THE HARRIER”

Tata Motors has formally announced the highly awaited production-spec H5X SUV and titled it Tata Harrier. The five-seat Tata Harrier will be launched in January, 2019 in India. This time around, Tata Motors has gone a step further and finalized Harrier as the H5X’s market name.

Honda is all set to introduce the updated Jazz in India on 19th July 2018. Jazz is expected to come with minor exterior tweaks that will make it look fresher. The new Jazz comes with features like ABS, EBD and reverse parking sensors are expected to be offered as standard across the range.

Harrier will be the name of the five-seat version of the SUV with a Fiat-sourced 2.0-litre diesel engine. However, a sevenseat version will follow a year later and will get a different name.

On the inside, the car is likely to come with all-black interiors, and get minor design changes to the seat and door pad fabric as well. The new Jazz will come with an updated infotainment system, likely to be Honda’s new Digipad 2.0 loaded with Apple Car Play and Android Auto that’ll be standard, at least on the top-spec model.

The Harrier made its debut as the stunning concept H5X at the Auto Expo earlier this year. The production version might stay true to the concept and we believe the car will retain the highset LED headlights. Other stylistic elements include a new, more defined interpretation of Tata’s trademark ‘humanity line’ that connects the headlights and grille.

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AUTOLIFE NEWS

GULF PRIDE SCOOTER OIL LAUNCHED IN NEPAL

Mahindra Organizes Adventurous Outing Programme for TUV 300 Customers

Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd. has launched a completely new packaging range for their flagship brand, MAK Lubricants on 16th June 2018 at Kathmandu. The launch was presided over by their Chairman & Managing Director, Mr. D. Rajkumar and other senior company officials. Siddhartha SJB Rana, Executive Chairman, Sipradi Trading Pvt.Ltd., BPCL’s exclusive lubricant distributor in Nepal, along with other senior Sipradi officials were also present along with dealers, customers and other business associates.

Inspired by Technology and Performance, the new pack of MAK Lubricants has a futuristic Gen-X profile which is sure to stand out on the shelf. The new design features tamper evident cap, two handle grip, unique texture around handle grips, curved profile in front for ergonomic gripping and anti-gurgle feature at the neck for a consistent and smooth flow of oil while pouring, ensuring a delightful experience.

The new MAK Lubricants is designed by M/s Tata Elxsi, one of the best industrial design agencies worldwide. The new packs have been launched after a series of field trials and comes in 4 contemporary colors which are categorized as follows : Red – For petrol engine segment Gold – For premium segment (petrol / diesel) Blue Grey – For diesel, gear oil, specialties segments Green – For Agri and Eco-Friendly segments In brief, keeping the customer in mind, the package design is user convenient and premium in terms of materials and build quality, assures authenticity, and comes with a distinct look, color and finish.

Mr. V. Anand, Executive Director at BPCL stated,“Our new pack truly represents the BPCL values of innovation, care and reliability. Providing value to our stakeholders in terms of innovative product and service offerings have always been of utmost importance to us, and we are committed to delivering only the best to our customers. The very first launch of our new pack in Nepal signifies our long and fulfilling association, both with this amazing country as well as our oldest overseas distributor, Sipradi Trading Pvt. Ltd.”

Keeping in line with Mahindra’s tradition of giving back to its customers, Agni Incorporated, the sole authorized distributors of Mahindra vehicles in Nepal took customers of their SUV Mahindra TUV 300 for an adventurous outing program to Sukute Beach on the 10th of July, 2018.

As adventure, thrill and fun is in the DNA of Mahindra, the company has been organizing adventure rallies and expeditions for its customers and enthusiasts, both in India and Nepal. This outing programme included a night stay at Sunkoshi Beach Camp at Sukute, followed by rafting the following morning.

The two-day expedition flagged off from Mahindra’s showroom in Naxal. Participants in their Mahindra TUV’s, officials from Agni Incorporated, camera crew and a service van for emergencies began their journey and arrived at the camp at dusk. Later in the evening Mahindra organized a small event where the participants could unwind from the tedious journey by playing games, sharing stories and enjoying the musical performances.

The next morning was a memorable experience for everyone present. Not only did it deliver an adrenaline rush but it was also an occasion for the participants to become one with nature. Rafting along the Bhote Koshi River was actionpacked, full of big waves and challenging rapids.

This expedition was a unique concept to showcase that those who drove a Mahindra shared the same tough and rugged DNA as the SUV itself. It was a great opportunity for them to test their endurance and overcome challenges. “I was scared at first, but slowly I started to enjoy the thrill of rafting. This was an unforgettable experience for me,” said Prabesh Upreti, one of the participants. Being a team oriented activity it was also great way to foster camaraderie and form an everlasting between the participants and Mahindra.

Since its inception, Mahindra has truly been perfecting the art of getting lost and giving people trips of a lifetime, be it a single-day off-road adventure or multi-day expeditions to the most beautiful places in Nepal or abroad.

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AUTOLIFE NEWS

Range Rover and Range Rover Sport 2018 If you are fond of the styling of Range Rover Velar, there’s a good chance that you will appreciate the 2018 Range Rover and Range Rover Sport. The 2018 Range Rover and Range Rover Sport have been launched in India today (28th June 2018). Let’s take a look at the details: The new Range Rovers’ foremost visual highlight is that their design inspiration comes from the Velar which now gives its customers a more upmarket and premium look on the new facelift models. The front end gets a new grille, new clamshell bonnet and fender vents.

CF MOTO 250NK Bookings Open

Apart from the Velar looking front end and the similar fascia, the new 2018 Range Rover and Range Rover Sport’s headlamps are made up of 144 units. These can put out up to 4 zones as they provide maximum illumination, the revised LED inserts in the tail lamp that makes it more stylish. The front grille is painted in glossy black paint.

The updates are not limited to the exteriors as the cabin has received some new elements too. The new Range Rover and Range Rover Sport will get some premium features that are designed for maximum luxury. For instance, the new models get an optional executive class type rear seats that provide the feel of an aircraft seat. These seats are being offered with a deployable center console, heated seats with massage function, panoramic sunroof with gesture sunblind that open and closes with the occupant’s hand movement. The new models also get adaptive cruise control with queue assist and four-zone climate control.

The new MY18 Range Rover comes with an all new Touch Pro duo infotainment system; the cabin gets 17 connecting points for multimedia uses and charging. Not only this, the cabin also gets 4G WI-FI connectivity with an option of connecting up to 8 devices.

The most awaited 250cc quarter liter beast is here. CF MOTO Nepal announces booking open for 250NK for a minimum booking amount of Rs.50,000. Currently the 250NK is available only in Silver color. Get this amazing machine at a price tag of only Rs. 4,99,000.

CF Moto have knocked the ball out of the park on the styling department of the 250NK. It looks good no matter which angle you look at it from. Starting from the front, the head light of the 250NK is slightly angled and it looks like it is tilted backwards.

The DRL splits the headlight around the middle section separating the High beam and the Low Beam. The extended tank panels give it a sharp look. The blue color on the rims and the trellis frame complement the grey color of the bike.

On, the side of performance, the NK 250 produces 27 BHP @ 9000 RPM and 22 NM of torque @ 7500 RPM. The NK 250 also features dual channel ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), LED headlights/ tail lights and DRLs (Daytime Running Lights).

For any enquiry please click: https://www.facebook.com/ CFMotoNepal/ or call: 01-4437970

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The new 2018 Range Rovers are being offered in a total of four engine options out of which two are petrol and two are diesel. The 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine produces a maximum power output of 255 bhp along with a peak torque of 600 Nm. The more powerful 4.4-litre V8 engine produces a maximum power of 335 bhp and peak torque of 740 Nm, the petrol option features a 3.0-litre Supercharged V6 that makes a maximum power of 335 bhp and a peak torque 450 Nm and lastly, the 5.0-litre supercharged V8 produces a maximum power of 517 bhp and a peak torque of 625 Nm. All engine options on the new MY18 Range Rover and Range Rover Sport come mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. This gearbox comes as standard on the new Range Rovers.

The new Range Rovers get performance features like electronic air suspension, terrain response 2 system, twin speed transfer box with electronic center differential and adaptive dynamics. These features make the new models more off-road capable and maintain a perfect balance between luxury and going dirty while off-roading.

The new Range Rover and Range Rover Sport will be up against the likes of Porsche Cayenne, Audi Q7 and Mercedes GLS in its segment.

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AUTOLIFE LAUNCHPAD

NEW IN THE COMPACT SUV RACE

MG ZS

MG (Morris Garage) motors has been slowly but steadily increasing its popularity in the automotive industry of Nepal.

The most recent car to be released before the introduction of the ZS was the MG GS which set the base for MG to take forward strides. With the ever-growing popularity of the Compact SUVs, MG’s decision to bring in the GS payed them very well. Now with the ZS ready to step into our market, will it be able to replicate the acceptance which the GS received? That we will find out when we get our hands on one.

The MG ZS has been given a very classy and elegant look which will definitely get some attention on the streets. The look on the MG ZS kind of resembles the Jaguar F pace in some areas like the front grille and the elongated front bonnet look. The headlight looks kind of similar to the Mazda CX-5but, don’t get us wrong here, we aren’t blaming MG of copying designs from other manufactures. There is just a little similarity in design, which we can’t put MG at fault because the ZS is a real eye candy. Moving to the sides, there isn’t much action there apart from a shoulder line carried out from the front to the back, while the back end gets a sleek looking design too.

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Unlike its elder sibling the GS, the ZS takes a different approach when it comes to the interior. Where the GS had a lot of control buttons laid out in the center console which looked good but was a little confusing at times. The center console on the ZS has a very clean and minimalistic look to it. The 8-inch infotainment system dominates the center console with control buttons laid out below the screen. The infotainment system is packed with Apple car play so for Apple users thats an added benefit.

The dash comprises of soft touch materials at most of the parts which definitely gives it a very nice feel but has some hard-plastic bits as well.

This was done to keep the price in check as manufacturers cannot provide the finest of materials and keep the price low as well. The three spoke steering wheel looks nice and sporty with all the function buttons like the audio controls and the cruise control neatly integrated into it. The top spec variant will have a leatherette upholstery to make it look and feel more upmarket.

Specifications Engine Description: 1.5 DOHC VTI-tech Aspiration type: Naturally aspirated Fuel delivery type: Port fuel Injection Cylinders: 4 cylinders Valves 16 Engine displacement (CC): 1498 Bore (mm): 75 Stroke (mm): 84.8 Compression ratio (Ratio): 10.5:1 Maximum engine power (PS @ rpm): 106PS @ 6000 RPM Maximum engine torque (Nm @ rpm): 141Nm @ 4500 RPM Overall length: 4314 mm Width: 1809 mm Height: 1611 mm Wheelbase (mm): 2585 mm Turning circle: 11.1 m Trunk capacity: 448 L Trunk capacity, seats down: 1375 L

The 1.5L four-cylinder engine produces 105 PS of power @ 6000 RPM and 141 Nm of torque @ 4500 RPM. The power is sent to the front wheels as there is no four-wheel drive option available for this vehicle.

It is justified as you would not expect potential buyers (targeted as a family SUV) to rip this compact SUV in the dirt. It is somewhat capable in the dirt but don’t expect big SUVs like performance.

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AUTOLIFE JULY 2018 23

AUTOLIFE FEATURE

CHECKEReD FLAGS IN NEPAL

I

nvented around the late 1800’s, the exact birthday of the motorcycle is a bit blurry. However, what we do know is that someone, somewhere decided to strap an internal combustion engine to an already fast (for the time) bicycle, put on a leather helmet, and test the laws of physics. By the early 1900’s, enthusiasts of this contraption, now called a motorcycle, began clearing land and building board tracks to push the limits of both man and machine; thus, the culture of motorcycle racing was born.

While countless fads have come and gone, the motorcycles, the racers, and the fans are here to stay. In fact, motorcycle racing survived both World War I and II; and over the past century, the motorcycle racing culture has given birth to various kinds of circuits. Whether we speak of the dirt tracks at NCM Motorsport Park in Kentucky, the magnificent Misano Circuit in Italy, or the pop-up Supercross race setups at temporary venues, racers and fans alike have evolved into various sub-segments of the culture. It has become a true testing ground for motorcycle manufacturers to showcase their engineering marvels in front of thousands of spectators. So why hasn’t this sport officially made its way into our country that claims to be full of adrenaline junkies?

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Contributed by Ashish Sinha, Founder at Iron Monk Works: In addition to being an avid motorcyclist, moto-journalist and track enthusiast, he also holds a degree in Marketing and Public Relations. He aims to bring exciting content to our readers issue after issue.

THE CURRENT SCENE With international brands like KTM and Ducati entering our market and our neighbors from India producing race inspired machines like the recently launched TVS Apache 310RR and RTR 200 4V, the Nepalese market has already seen a shift towards highlighting the would-be fans and hopeful racers.

Events such as Racemandu and Moto Flat Track have given a great platform for young riders and race enthusiasts to showcase their machines and riding abilities. Yet, there is a major void that needs to be filled. The lack of proper tracks, equipment, track officials and the overall knowledge alone has limited the potential of these events.

CHALLENGES While optimists might disagree, let’s face it, Nepal is poor!

Decades of governing instability and the political tug of war has held back the socio-economic growth and progress of this great nation. Considered one of the poorest in the world, our country has bigger things to worry about than paving circles in the middle of the forest on which weekend warriors can burn expensive fuel and rubber.

The social structure of our society is another major factor. With a big gap between the wealthy and poor, only a small percentage of the population can dream of dragging knee around a corner while the sun’s rays glisten off a Panigale’s immaculate paintjob. For the majority, two wheels and a motor are just an economical way to facebook.com/AutolifeNepal

get to work and make ends meet. Besides, Hajur-maa wouldn’t approve of your obnoxious Termignoni exhaust, would she? In short, our society, and even some local governments see most of these gorgeous machines as a public nuisance that must be highly taxed and muffled quiet.

Regardless of these challenges and many more that we don’t have column space to mention, Nepal has the potential to be the ideal playground for the most avid motorcycle racers and enthusiasts from around the world.

PROSPECT IN NEPAL Motor racing is rare among sports for the simple fact that each track or closed-off public road holds its own challenges and excitement. While other sports such as football and cricket boast their own challenges at various venues, they are built according to specific guidelines that meet regulation and bring a certain level of uniformity across the board. Race circuits on the other hand, contour to the surrounding landscape, evolving some of the best-known hairpin corners and backstretches that bring thousands of fans from across the world to venues each year.

Due to its geographical location and cultural diversity, Nepal certainly boasts an enormous level of attraction.

Each year hundreds of thousands of tourists flock to our tiny nation, whether in search of Zen in the mountains, or to indulge in our diverse culture preserved within the ancient cities and villages. Add an international level racetrack and related events to this equation, and the sport is bound to attract many more that might not have had Nepal on their travel bucket list.

ECONOMIC BENEFITS The pinnacle in motorcycle racing is MOTO GP. Each year fans bounce from one circuit to another across the world, following their favorite manufacturers and racers with hopes of bringing home trophies and titles, telling the world that they are the best in the business. It is estimated that, annually, just the stop at the three race locations in the United States generates over $25 million in economic impact for the country.

A recent study by the Statesman estimated that with over 1,50,000 fans expected at Austin, Texas, just one of the locations in the U.S.—the fans would book over 40 percent of the city’s hotel rooms to attend the race. While many attendees travel from other states, a considerable percentage even attend from neighboring countries. With millions of dollars coming in from all directions, this facebook.com/AutolifeNepal

money doesn’t simply go to the winners of the race, but is also spent on hotels, airfares, restaurants, tourist attractions and in the local markets. That means higher earnings for the whole state due to sales and related taxes. The study expects over 80 percent of the money spent by the fans will stay in the city of Austin at the end of the event.

Even if we consider a fraction of these numbers and calculations for Nepal, where 1 USD purchases 110 NPR, this would be a great boost to the struggling economy and the federal government.

CONCLUSION Nepal is in dire need of an economic boost, however small or large it may be. The ever-increasing taxes only put a small dent in the state’s struggle to create jobs and generate revenue with the limited wealth that is floating around within our nation’s borders. Perhaps a move to promoting and establishing proper circuits could not only help find the apex through the terrifying corner known as the ‘economic crisis’, but also give the future generation of Nepal-bred racers and engineers a glimpse of the finish line known as progress.

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AUTOLIFE LAUNCHPAD

HONDA X BLADE IN TOWN Honda, known for its reliable and efficient engine, has positioned itself as one of the top motorcycle brands in the world and of course Nepal as well. Honda has won the hearts of many and has loyal customers and fans. This time around, the industry’s giant is bringing yet another model into its lineup, the Honda X Blade. Let’s take a look at what the X Blade has to offer at a glance.

From the get go, you can definitely tell the X Blade is one of the most stylish commuters that Honda has come up with. The LED headlight has a sharp angular shape giving it a futuristic look in which the windscreen has managed to blend in so well. The sharp design cues are also carried over to the rear where the X Blade gets a razor edged LED taillight. Along the hull, the X Blade comes with an aggressively sculpted 12 liter fuel tank. Honda definitely took designing seriously as they’ve recently been providing some of the most stylish yet functional saree guards till date and we can see this again on the X Blade. We can expect comfort for both the rider and pillion from the long single seat and even the pillion grab rails have been well integrated as part of the X Blade’s design.

The X Blade comes with a 162.7cc engine mated to a 5 speed gearbox that produces a peak power of 13.93 bhp @8500rpm and a peak torque of 13.9 Nm @ 6000rpm. The engine is

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OWNER’S REVIEW

I have owned the Tata Tigor for almost a year now and I have been to many places in this car such as Birgunj, Biratnagar, Sindhuli and Dhankuta. I generally use the car for travelling outside valley. I usually go for exterior aesthetics and then only look for the features that the car has to offer when choosing a car. This was the same reason that I bought the car; I loved the way the Tigor looks and I didn’t expect Tata would make such good-looking vehicles. I must say I had been blown away by how the Tigor looked when I first saw it.

For a 1200cc car, I would have to say that it is the best in its class in terms of exterior and interior, which is the main reason why I bought this car when it was first launched. Before this I used to drive a different car which is no longer in production that is why I decided to buy a new car. And then I started searching for a new car and found the Tata Tigor to be the best in terms of look and features. Also, talking about its safety features, this car has anti-lock braking system and air bags, which were not available on most of the cars in its segment when I bought it.

Dushyant Lal Joshi

Executive Chairperson, Dushyant and Company Pvt. Ltd.

I have to say that driving inside the city in the Tigor is quite comfortable even when you have to deal with heavy traffic and brake every 5 seconds. Plus, being a compact sedan, it fits perfectly in the city and it isn’t much of a hassle to find a parking spot for the car as well. There is enough leg room for both the driver and passengers. This car has a good ground clearance for driving in Kathmandu and even on highways. As I mentioned earlier, I keep travelling quite a lot and the Tigor hasn’t given me any problems on my long drives and has always offered a pleasurable driving experience.

In terms of servicing and customer care, I am completely satisfied with Tata.

They kept calling me periodically for servicing and how the car is doing when I bought it and even until now I get calls from the company. Up until now, I have found the Tigor to be quite comfortable and have been completely satisfied with its performance, even my friends who have driven the car say so. I would happily recommend the Tata Tigor to my friends and family any chance that I would get.

CONTACT SIPRADI TRADING PVT. LTD. Teku, Kathmandu Tel. No. 01-4250610, 4250612 www.facebook.com/tatamotorsnepal

SPECIFICATIONS Engine Type: Revotron 1.2L, 3 Cylinder Displacement: 1199cc Cylinders: 3-Inline Max Power: 85 PS@6000 RPM Max Torque: 114 Nm@3500 RPM Gearbox: Manual Fuel Tank Capacity: 35 litres

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shared with the X Blades 160cc siblings, the Unicorn 160 and the CB Hornet. Coming down to the tires, the front tire is an 80/100 and 130/70 in the rear, both of which are 17-inch alloy wheels. The stopping power comes from a 276mm single disc in the front and a 130mm drum unit at the back. The X Blade gets a diamond shaped frame and comes with a telescopic suspension in front and a mono shock at the rear and the X Blade has a kerb weight of 140Kg. The instrument console comes with an array of features; it comes loaded with an all new digital console that includes a tachometer, odometer, 2 trip meters, trip F, and additional new features to Honda’s 160cc lineup, a gear position indicator, clock and more. The X blade gets a hazard light which is a great feature to add for safety. The Honda X Blade comes with both an electric starter and a kick starter, however, it lacks an engine kill switch.

All in all, Honda seems to have come up with an excellent commuter to which we have our expectations set on Honda’s new X Blade. We can’t wait to get our hands on the X Blade and give you our take on it. Stay tuned for more on the Honda X Blade.

Specifications Type: Air Cooled 4 Stroke SI Engine Displacement: 162.71 cc Fuel Tank Capacity: 12 L Max Net Power: 10.39 kW (13.93 bhp) @ 8500 RPM Max Net Torque: 13.9 Nm @ 6000 RPM Compression Ratio: 10:1 Length: 2013 mm Width: 786 mm Height: 1115 mm Wheel Base: 1347 mm Ground Clearance: 160 mm Kerb Weight: 140 kg

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AUTOLIFE JULY 2018 29

AUTOLIFE TEST RIDE

CROSS OVER TO DUALITY

TEKKEN 250 WORDS AND PHOTOS: AL TEAM

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W

hen it comes to motorcycles, we always want something that can do everything and try to get the best out of the bike for the price that we are paying for.

Motorcycles are something that needs to be purposeful and functional specially with the roads that we are graced with in Nepal. By saying that, we mean the unexpected broken trails up the hills and highways that are patched up with all sorts of potholes. This means that we need motorcycles that are equally capable to tackle all of such road conditions.

At the same time, people aren’t looking for something that’s too premium and want to go for something that’s easier on the pocket; something that’s as accessible and affordable as a basic commuter and something that is functional so to speak of. Basically, all of this means that people are looking for something that is the best of all that we just talked about, and SLR Techno and Trade Pvt. Ltd. have brought the perfect machine for the occasion, the all new crossover, Tekken 250.

The Tekken 250 by Motorhead is a completely new addition to the crossover market and a fresh new machine that’s yet to be fully exploited. Generally, crossover motorcycle is a combination of both an on-road and off-road bike with qualities and capabilities of both.

In this sense, crossovers are something that we believe are really practical. But does the Tekken has what it takes to be a functional crossover? We find out in this review where we pit the Tekken up against all the terrains that it claims to conquer.

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DESIGN AND FEATURES

At a first glance, the Tekken 250 has a menacing stance and has pulled off quite a nice dual sport design. With high front fenders and a tall rear section, the design cues on the motorcycle gives out an adventurous vibe. From a distance, the Tekken looks huge with the beefy tires, both at the front and rear. However, moving in closer, the motorcycle doesn’t seem to be as imposing as it looks and a few bits and parts misses out on the sturdiness that a crossover needs to have. By saying that, we don’t mean to say the bike isn’t a good looker but Motorhead has definitely produced a mean looking motorcycle. The Tekken has an appeal to itself that eventually grows on you. The tank shrouds coupled with the high fender gives the front an aggressive look and the headlight assembly with the LED DLRs just add more weight to the design. Even the rear section of the motorcycle looks quite impressive with the dual exhaust setup.

On the features end, the Tekken receives an all-digital console, that comes loaded with a speedometer, trip meter, odometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, time and even a gear position indicator. The overall console is on par with the quality of the bike but a few plastic holdings and the material could have been a little sturdier. The motorcycle receives upside down forks up front and comes equipped with a mainshock absorber at the rear. The Tekken is a very simplistic machine and not much has been done to overload the bike with tons of technology. However, it does miss out on ABS which we believe needs to be an essential on motorcycles these days.

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AT A FIRST GLANCE, THE TEKKEN 250 HAS A MENACING STANCE AND HAS PULLED OFF QUITE A NICE DUAL SPORT DESIGN

ENGINE AND PERFORMANCE

It seems that the 250cc segment for motorcycles has been really hot at the moment. We are seeing new and exciting offerings in the quarter liter segment and the Tekken is an all new addition to this market. However, the motorcycle is powered by a 223cc single cylinder, 4 stroke, air cooled engine that produces a maximum power of 16.7bhp @8000rpm and a maximum torque of 17Nm @6500rpm.

Even though, being a 223cc motorcycle, the Tekken does have the grunt to fair against others in the 250cc segment.

It might not be the fastest but still offers an impressive performance.

Mated to a 6-speed gearbox, the engine on the Tekken seems to have adequate amount of torque in the midrange and the power delivery is laid back. This means that the motorcycle has enough juice for the adrenaline junkies to have fun with and at the same time feeling tamed and controlled. Being a carbureted, air cooled engine, the bike did heat up every once in a while, during uphill trails and during high revs. It seemed like the bike was better off in mid-rev ranges and seemed to be really stressed in higher revs. Overall, the motorcycle had enough power and good torque to conquer off-roads and tackle corners efficiently.

BRAKING AND SUSPENSION

The Tekken gets hydraulic disc brakes both at the front and back. The rear brake had quite a nice initial bite to it and the response from the rear was quite impressive. However, the brakes at the front had more of a progressive feel to it but misses out on the initial bite.

But we feel that the stopping power on the motorcycle was just adequate. Moving on, the Tekken gets upside down forks up front and a monoshock absorber at the rear. The front suspensions weren’t too stiff nor were they too plush and handled undulations on the roads pretty well. However, the case in not the same with the rear suspension though. The rear monoshock seemed to be more on the stiffer side and wasn’t quite well with while going on bumpy roads, you could actually feel the thud from the back end. But it did help on roads for the motorcycle to carve into corners.

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MATED TO A 6-SPEED GEARBOX, THE ENGINE ON THE TEKKEN SEEMS TO HAVE ADEQUATE AMOUNT OF TORQUE IN THE MID-RANGE AND THE POWER DELIVERY IS LAID BACK

COMFORT AND HANDLING

At first, when you saddle the motorcycle, the seating position feels weird with the wide upright handles and somehow the seats feel low even at 820mm. But once you get used to the riding position, the motorcycle starts to feel more comfortable and seats are feel cushioned. We took the motorcycle to complete off-roads to test it to its fullest, and even on some of the most rugged terrains, the motorcycle was quite stable and handled pretty well. The bike seemed to be well balanced and it was even easy to up your foot down and bring the bike up with ease. Even on muddy roads, the beefy dual-purpose tires kept bike from losing its traction and held up pretty well up against almost anything that we threw at it. And not just that, but the bike even handled pretty well on pitched roads. Well, it doesn’t allow for all out race inspired cornering but certainly gets the job done.

Overall, there wasn’t much that the bike couldn’t handle. Only one sore thumb about the motorcycle was the stiff rear suspension but we are pretty sure that with a few tweaks here and there, playing around with the preload adjustment will get the job done.

VERDICT

The Tekken certainly proved to be a very functional and practical crossover motorcycle in our books. It was surprising how well the motorcycle performed and exceeded our expectations of the Tekken. We were thoroughly impressed how easy it was to handle the motorcycle and how it managed to keep itself balance. All in all, we believe that the Tekken is a capable new entry in the 250cc crossover segment. Not just that but SLR Techno and Trade have just hit the sweet spot by pricing the Tekken at Rs. 3,50,000/-. Overall, the Tekken seems to be a force to be reckoned with and will be a strong contender in the motorcycle industry.

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Specifications Displacement: 223cc Engine type: Single Cylinder, 4 Stroke, Air Cooled Transmission: 6 Gears Manual Transmission Configuration: Carburetor PZ30 Compression Ratio: 9.2:1 Maximum Power: 16.7bhp @8000rpm Maximum Torque: 17Nm @6500rpm Brakes: Front and Rear Hydraulic Disc Brakes Front Suspension: Inverted Front Shocks Rear Suspension: Mono Shock with Air Damper Fuel Tank: 14 liters Measurements (L*W*H): 2070mm*900mm*1110mm Seat Height: 820mm Wet Weight: 157Kg Price: Rs. 3,50,000/-

CONTACT: SLR Techno and Trade Pvt. Ltd. Dhobighat, Lalitpur Phone: 01-5542934, 01-5539592

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AUTOLIFE INTERVIEW

AKASH IN CONVERSATION WITH

GOLCHHA

MANAGING DIRECTOR AT GO AUTOMOBILES PVT. LTD.

WORDS: PRASHANT MANANDHAR PHOTOS: GAURAV XHOMPATE SUNUWAR

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Ford has been a household name in Nepal for quite some time now and it has been garnering more and more followers as time passes. Not just that, but the brand has taken a new step forward in creating a refreshed value for itself by bringing in the Mustang GT in Nepal. Certainly, Ford is trying to stir a storm in the Nepalese market with not only the Mustang but the fresh new CUV, the Ford Freestyle. Here, we have a conversation with Mr. Akash Golchha, the Managing Director at GO Automobiles Pvt. Ltd., to know more about where Ford stands in the industry and what more we can expect from them in the future.

HOW HAS THE MARKET SCENARIO BEEN FOR FORD PRESENTLY?

For Ford the market scenario has been good as of recently. We had a launch in November, 2017 for the new Ecosport, and since then the product has been doing amazing in the market. Apart from that, we recently launched the Ford Freestyle in May and it has had a good response from the market as well. So, as of now, we are the number one in the SUV segment with Ford Ecosport.

And slowly, the market share for the Freestyle is also increasing which means if this trend goes on the Freestyle will also do good in the smaller car vehicle segment.

WITH THE RECENT LAUNCH OF THE ICONIC MUSTANG, WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD FOR FORD IN THE PREMIUM FOUR-WHEELER SEGMENT?

There’s a performance division in Ford where they have three cars, one is the Mustang, another one is the Raptor and the last one being the Focus RS. We have already launched the Mustang here in Nepal and another performance vehicle that we are planning to launch from the performance division is the Raptor. The Mustang is a high capacity performance vehicle and due to the increase in duty for higher cc vehicles, it would be difficult to get another one. But we are looking to get another variant of the Mustang with a smaller engine, the 2.3 Ecoboost. We are working on bringing the 2.3 variant but the 5-liter variant would be difficult or impossible with the recent changes in the taxing policies. However, the Ford Raptor is in the pipeline and it will launch sometime this year.

HOW DO YOU THINK THAT HAVING THE MUSTANG IN YOUR ARSENAL WILL CHANGE THE BRAND VALUE OF FORD AND GO AUTOMOBILES AS A WHOLE?

One is the Mustang and the another one is the Raptor, I would say both of these vehicles in the performance segment will help people look at Ford in a different way. Many people haven’t seen the Mustang before and many might have just heard about it, but with the presence of the Mustang in Nepal, it will definitely uplift the brand image of Ford as whole in the Nepalese market. Also, that was the main idea behind bringing such performance vehicles; we never planned to sell the Mustang in large numbers and it was always about increasing the overall brand value by having it in our arsenal.

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ALSO, GO AUTOMOBILES HAVE RECENTLY LAUNCHED THE FORD FREESTYLE. HOW HAS THE MARKET BEEN TREATING THE ALL NEW CUV?

Although the Freestyle has been launched as a CUV which is a segment in between SUV and hatchback, the price of the vehicle is something like that of a hatchback which makes it very competitive. So, people are finding it to be affordable and a better option than a hatchback. We believe that due to these reasons we have had a good reception from the market and there has even been good number of bookings for the Freestyle. Due to the hosts of bookings coming in, we weren’t able to keep up with the supply but from this month onwards the delivery will definitely improve.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE PREDICTIONS AND SALES FORECAST FOR THE FREESTYLE?

If you look at the cross segment, Ford is already number one and we expect the Freestyle to be a top selling car in its segment. We will be competing in the hatchback segment with the Freestyle and it should be selling on par with the highest selling hatchbacks.

WOULD YOU SAY THAT FREESTYLE WOULD BEAT THE SALES TARGET OR NUMBERS OF THE ECOSPORT WHEN IT INITIALLY LAUNCHED?

Not only in the first year, but Ecosport has been selling like hot cakes through out the past couple of years and it has been our best seller till date, and we believe it will still be the same. I believe that the Ecosport will be our main selling car but for the Freestyle, we plan to make it the highest selling car in its segment. Although it’s a little different car than a conventional hatchback, but we believe that the Freestyle will give other cars in the segment a tough fight.

REGARDING THE AFTER SALES SERVICES, HOW ARE YOU GOING TO GO ABOUT IT FOR THE FREESTYLE?

For Ford, its all the same for all of the vehicles and all the vehicles are serviced in the same service center. We have a nationwide network of service stations, so it won’t be much of a hassle to get your vehicle serviced. Ever since the establishment of Ford in Nepal, we have been constantly keeping the cost of ownership in mind rather than just the price of the vehicle. So, even in the sense of after sales, we strive to keep it

competitive with affordable spare parts and accessible service facilities for easier and cheaper repairs.

WHAT DO YOU THINK IS THE BIGGEST SELLING POINT FOR THE FORD FREESTYLE APART FROM THE FACT THAT IT IS LIGHT ON YOUR POCKET?

Basically, I think that they have got everything right with the Freestyle.

Generally, small cars come with a 1.2-liter engine and the Freestyle is the most powerful vehicle in the 1.2 segment. It is packed with all the features such as infotainment system, six airbags, ABS, EBD and now they have even got ARP which means Anti Rollover Protection. Then the music system on the Freestyle is one of the best that Ford has to offer. Apart all of that, the ground clearance on the car is also on the higher side which makes the car even better for the roads of Nepal.

WHAT ARE YOUR COMMENTS ON THE RECENT CHANGE IN THE TAX SYSTEM AND BUDGET? WHAT KIND OF IMPACT DO YOU THINK WILL IT HAVE IN THE AUTOMOBILE INDUSTRY?

There was a deficit in the budget and the government wanted to cover that up by increasing the duty. It’s pretty evident that the duty in Nepal has always been high and with recent changes, there haven’t been much of an effect in smaller vehicles but vehicles in the higher capacity segment will definitely see a substantial change in the taxes that will be charged. Talking in the same context, these higher capacity vehicles which are already expensive will now only be more expensive making these vehicles almost unaffordable.

WHAT ARE THE UPCOMING LINE-UPS FOR FORD IN THIS FISCAL YEAR?

The Raptor is already in the pipelines and if possible, we are planning to bring in the Ford Focus Active. The Focus Active is something that people are stating to be a very high-tech car and we believe that it will be an amazing addition to what we have to offer to the market. The Focus Active will be a Cross segment vehicle which looks amazing and comes with really good options. Just like the Raptor, we are planning to launch the Focus Active this year. Also, Ford is planning to launch various variants of the Ecosport with different options in the coming years.

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AUTOLIFE PRODUCT WATCH

2018 Mahindra

XUV 500

The XUV 500 has been Mahindra’s flagship car since its first launch in 2011. This was Mahindra’s first step into the Luxury SUV market and the XUV 500 was an instant hit, with it gaining fame and many accolades early in its life. This year, Mahindra has decided to present the third iteration of the successful XUV 500. The update this time is more significant than the mere facelift it received years ago and there are a lot of things that have been updated this year. We take a sneak peek into what the changes are for the 2018 model.

The front fascia of the vehicle has gone through a subtle yet very noticeable update. The grille still has the signature 7 slots; however, they made it more prominent with the chrome studs. The grille is also bigger than what it used to be. The other change is in the headlight; the LED DRLs go back to begin a single straight stripe like the first generation XUV. But this time, rather than at the bottom of the headlight, it’s at the top portion.

Moving to the sides, there isn’t much change here apart from the optional 18 inch diamond cut alloy wheels. The rear is where the most significant change has taken place; gone are those long taillights which are replaced by triangular units. These do look a little out of place since we are so used to seeing those long taillights, but it slowly grows on you and looks attractive. The roof spoiler is also bigger than before to give it a much sportier look.

The interior has also been redone quite a bit; the tan leather seats now have quilted design to give it a more upmarket feel. The black dashboard also gets a lot

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of soft touch plastics to add to the premium feel. The infotainment system gets a small tweak and it is now integrated with smart watch connectivity. All these updates make it more desirable and provide more value to the customers.

The mHawk 2.2 engine has gone through quite some updates as well. The previous engine was producing 140 HP and 330 Nm of torque while the new updated engine pushes these figures to 155 HP @ 3750 RPM and 360 Nm of torque from 1750–2800 RPM. The increase in the performance shows that Mahindra is not only focused towards the aesthetics and is looking into developing the performance of their vehicles too.

Looking into the safety features, the XUV comes loaded with safety features such as 6 airbags, ABS (Antilock Brake System), EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution) and ESP (Electronic Stability Program). These safety features are focused towards making the driving experience safer. Other than those features, it also gets hill descent control which takes over the braking duties while going downhill so that you can focus solely on steering the vehicle over tough obstacles. The hill hold control makes sure that you don’t roll back when starting from a stop on an inclined road.

With the updates to the exterior, interior, performance and the inclusion of newer safety features, we can see that the 2018 XUV 500 will be intending to make a big splash when it enters the Nepalese market soon.

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Specifications Engine Description: mHawk155 Diesel Engine, 6th Generation Electronically Controlled Variable Geometry Turbocharger (eVGT) Engine Displacement: 2179 cc Transmission Type: Manual / Automatic Fuel Type: Petrol / Diesel Fuel Tank: 70 Liters Maximum Power: 155 HP @ 3750 rpm Maximum Torque: 360 Nm @1750-2800 rpm Gearbox: 6-Speed Automatic No. of Cylinders: 4 Overall Length: 4585 mm Overall Width: 1890 mm Overall Height 1785 mm Wheelbase: 2700 mm Gross Vehicle Weight: 2510 kg Front Brakes: Ventilated Discs Rear Brakes: Discs Front Suspension: Independent Suspension, McPherson Type with Anti-Roll Bar Rear Suspension: Independent Suspension, Multilink type with Anti-Roll Bar Drivetrain: 4x2 / 4x4

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AUTOLIFE FEATURE

MOTORCYCLE TOURING TIPS COMPILED BY: SHAQUILLEE S. GHOTANE

We assume that either you ride a motorcycle or have ridden one or at least you know someone who rides. Anyways, it’s pretty evident that the dynamics of commuting through the hustle and bustle of city traffic and riding on the highways are completely different and are worlds apart. We’re used to swerving and maneuvering around busy streets at relatively low speeds in the city but with the urban lifestyle that we are so used to, there’re only a handful of instances when we’ll be going through the highway, maybe for touring or you just hate taking the bus for long tours. But for the sake of this article, let’s just go with touring.

Like we said earlier, the scenario in the highway is very different. The roads there are open and vehicles will be travelling at their cruising speeds which usually average to 100 kmph. Slip at those speeds travelling on a two wheeler, you’ll be the human version of a bowling ball.

But of course, that shouldn’t deter you from going out there. We doubt we need to tell you that, so, let us just get to what you’re really here for which is how you can be best prepared to go the distance:

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RIDER’S VIGILANCE

First of all, turn on all your senses from the very start of the journey. You don’t want to be doing that when there’s a truck 10 feet in front of you, seriously that can happen.

Stay conscious of what’s going on around you and spot for hazards around you so you don’t get in a pickle. It doesn’t hurt to be alert.

PLUG ’EM UP

Did you know you can fatigue from all that air whistling around your helmet? Yep, not kidding, the thing is that your brain has to process all that noise while you’re on two wheels which can drastically drain you mentally.

So, what’s the solution then? We recommend to use ear buds or helmets that can reduce wind noise but since those usually aren’t cheap, we’d recommend ear plugs. Don’t worry about not missing out on the auditory experience of riding. There are ear plugs these days that are designed to block out low frequency sounds like loud exhaust and wind noises which are the energy vampires and just allow you to hear high frequency noise like sirens and horns. facebook.com/AutolifeNepal

PROTECTION

We don’t think we have to tell you to always wear protection or mention how important it is to have it on. Wait, just to make sure we’re on the same page; we’re talking about riding gears. But of course, the other protection is also equally important. If you want to know more about Riding Gears, we’ve got all the nitty gritty details on them in our Riding Gear Series, so don’t forget to give it a read.

H20 LEVELS

So you’re travelling at cruising speeds of 100 kmph and you’re enjoying that wind hitting your chest.

Well, those winds are actually affecting you in a way you wouldn’t normally expect; they tend to drain your body from its water and you get dehydrated quicker than usual. Also, you might sweat underneath your riding gear which means you’re losing water there as well. The dehydration will cause you to lose focus which can mean the difference between life and death out there, so drink water my friend.

GET COMFORTABLE

Now, you’re out there enjoying your tour and at the same time you’re alert so you won’t be facing a truck 10 feet in front of you but what if you’re shoes are laced too tight or your nether regions are itchy? It’s at those times when your focus can shift and you get distracted. So, you’ll want to take measures possible to keep yourself comfortable while you ride.

Having riding gear that fit snug and are appropriate for the kind of climate helps. If you have a problem with sweating then try wearing sports specific inner wear. They’re very good at wicking moisture and dry quickly which makes it easy to clean after a long day of touring.

sure it’s a pace that’s within your skill level. It’s usually over confidence that’ll take you to the highway to hell.

THE PLAN

Now, you’re probably thinking that you don’t need to plan cause you’re good at coming up with a solution on the spot. Yeah that’s great, but wouldn’t it be better to know that the coming fuel station will be last before a really long stretch while you’re low on gasoline?

THE MECHANIC IN YOU

A flat tire, a snapped accelerator cable or a blown fuse are pretty common hiccups during your ride but the good news is that they’re all really easy to fix. With the help of your owner’s manual and spare tool kit you’ll be back on the road in no time. We would recommend you to carry a tire plug kit for your tubeless tires, spare fuses, spare cables and spare spark plugs and worry not, they’re all very affordable.

THE RIDER’S CONDITION

You can have the ultimate two-wheeler to take you on your tour but ultimately, you are what’s controlling it so it’s important you’re in good shape health-wise when you’re going out there. You don’t want to be riding with loose motion or having a headache while you’re looking out for trucks.

GET FLASHY

The best form of protection is the one that prevents the situation in the first place so, make sure you’re always visible out there. Sometimes a truck driver might not be alert so he’ll accidentally be on course to being 10 feet in front of you. So, you’ll probably want to do whatever it takes to not blend into the background. Try using colors like fluorescent yellow, cherry red (like a Ducati), white etc.

CHECKUP

You can save yourself a lot of trouble by taking your ride to the mechanic a day or two before your tour starts. You just might find an accelerator cable that’s about to snap or realize it’s only a few kilometers before the brakes completely wear out. You can also take this opportunity to have some basic maintenance procedures done like lubing the chains or cleaning the air filter.

EAT LIGHT

We do not mean eat light as in eat a lightbulb but what we’re trying to say is that it’s a good idea to have light meals while you’re riding out there.

Having heavy meals before a ride may cause you to feel drowsy or lethargic since your body needs to increase your blood flow down there and ultimately affecting your defense against having a truck come 10 feet in front of you.

NO MOTOGP-ING

You are not going out there to win any races. We know, we know the open roads and those beautiful curves beckon at you but your priority is to reach your destination in one piece. Set a pace and make facebook.com/AutolifeNepal

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AUTOLIFE TEST RIDE

FOR THE INNER ADVENTURER IN YOU CF MOTO 650MT WORDS AND PHOTOS: AL TEAM

WORDS AND PHOTOS: AL TEAM

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W

e are pretty sure that all of you must have noticed the popularity of higher capacity bikes in Nepal. Most of the newest and the fastest bikes usually make its way to Nepal one way or the other. The high tax rate and the small pot hole filled roads don’t seem to deter the people from buying such exotics. This however is a very good thing for us auto enthusiasts as we will be getting the latest and the greatest in the auto industry here in Nepal. Like other brands, CF Moto have also followed this with the introduction of their 650 series of bikes, the NK650 and the 650MT. While the NK being a naked sport bike and the MT being an adventure tourer bike.

Recently the popularity of adventure touring bikes has increased, because some time back the only option available was the Ducati Multistrada and the Royal Enfield Himalayan. Now there are a lot more option for the potential buyers in the form of the newer Ducati Multistrada 1200/950, the Kawasaki Versys, Honda Africa twin and the CRF Rally, Benelli TRK 502, BMW GS 650/750/850/1200, etc. In this issue we got to swing our leg over the 650MT and put it through its paces to see how good of an adventure tourer this bike really is.

DESIGN AND FEATURES

We have gone over this fact before as well but let us over it once again, the designing of the bike is done by Kiska. Kiska is a renowned designer who does the designing for KTM as well. We must appreciate the talent of such an artist who keeps coming back with stunning designs one after the other.

The 650MT is no exception, the front end is very beautiful with the LED DRLs (Daytime Running Lights). It has the conventional look of an adventure tourer bike, which is a large front and a small tail section. The height of the windscreen can be adjusted according to requirement which is a very nice feature. As the rider might be tall/short and the stock position of the windscreen might not be the best position for the rider. With the ability to adjust the height of the windscreen the wind blast faced while doing long journey trips will be mitigated making the ride more comfortable. Being a tourer bike, it is necessary for the bike to be able to carry luggage of the rider and the passenger. So, the MT has a rack to mount the side and top cases on the motorcycle to pack your stuff into. The instrument cluster was an alldigital unit. It gave the basic information’s such as the engine RPM and speed, other than that it also had a gear indicator, clock, fuel efficiency meters, trip meters, riding modes, temperature gauge, etc. all of these were displayed on the instrument cluster. Though it looks like a lot it was neatly integrated and was easy to read even under direct sunlight. There were two riding modes available to choose from, the Touring mode and the Sport mode.

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ENGINE AND PERFORMANCE

The 650MT is powered by a 650cc parallel twin engine producing 71 HP @ 8750 RPM and 62 Nm of torque @ 7000 RPM. The power delivery of the 650MT is just like any other parallel twin engines, there isn’t much grunt in the low end but as you start to climb up the RPM meter the pull gets stronger with it. While testing the two modes available, we found that there wasn’t much of a difference in the two modes apart from the fact that in sport mode the throttle response got a little sharper than that in the touring mode.

The torque was punchy in the lower end so it made the MT easier to ride in stop and go traffic. The harder you accelerated the more exciting it would get and before you knew it would have reach three-digit figures. Even though this is a fairly heavy bike it had more than enough power and torque to make it an exciting bike to ride while it wasn’t an intimidating experience.

“

THE 650MT HAD THE INITIAL BITE TO ASSURE YOU THAT IT HAS THE POWER TO STOP THIS MACHINE AND THE FACT THAT IT HAS ABS JUST MAKES IT THAT MUCH SAFER

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BRAKING AND SUSPENSION

The brake setup on the 650MT is two petal disc upfront and single disc at the rear. All the brakes are hydraulic.

The brakes did a good job too, it had the initial bite to assure you that it has the power to stop this machine and the fact that it has ABS (Antilock Braking System) just makes it that much safer. The ABS, however, does rob some feel from the lever. The 650MT is equipped with an upsidedown suspension upfront and a side mounted mono shock at the rear.

COMFORT AND HANDLING The seating position on the 650MT was focused towards the comfort of the rider. Since this is a bike where you spend a lot of time on the saddle, the handle bars are high and wide, with the foot pegs pretty front set, giving it a very comfortable body position. The suspension on the front was balanced as it wasn’t very soft nor too hard, so it was decent over bumps and good through the corners. The rear suspension however is a different case, it was setup too soft since made for a plush ride. However, the suspensions being on the softer side did make it bouncy at times especially with no load at the back. The 650MT being a front weight biased bike due to the fairing upfront, felt spongy at bigger bumps with less weight at the rear.

The 650MT comes with Metzeler M5 Sportec tires as stock, as we

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have ridden on those tires before we know that they provide very good level of grips. The roundish profile of the tires meant that even if the bike weighed 213Kgs it was quick to turn in. The front suspension was ready to handle the turn but you could feel the weight of the bike through corners due to the soft sprung rear.

It made the bike a bit unstable at times when we went over bumps on a corner. However this issues isn’t a deal breaking since it comes with adjustable suspensions, meaning you can just get the suspension adjusted according to your liking. Note: Tuning your suspension is a very good way of improving the handling and characteristics of the bike, however we recommend that you do it only at the authorized service center or someone you can trust. Since the suspensions are a very crucial part of a bikes handling, a wrong setup can make the bike very risky to ride.

VERDICT

The 650MT has pretty much nailed down all the features required to make it a good adventure tourer bike. It has the look, the feel, the specifications, the dimensions and the heart of a tourer bike. The only gripe that we had with this bike is the rear suspension which can be easily rectified with professional help. And as we’ve mentioned before, if you do intend to make changes in the suspension setup make sure you get it done by someone who knows what he is doing.

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Specifications ENGINE TYPE: 2-cylinder inline, 4-stroke, Liquid cooled CAPACITY: 649.3 cc BORE & STROKE: 83×60 mm (3.3×2.4in) COMPRESSION RATIO: 11.3:1 FUEL SYSTEM: Bosch EFI MAX. POWER OUTPUT: 71 HP @ 8750 RPM MAX. TORQUE: 62.0 Nm @ 7000 RPM MAX. SPEED: 170 km/h FRONT SUSPENSION: Upside Down REAR SUSPENSION: Cantilever Type BRAKES: Hydraulic FRONT TYRES/RIMS: 3.50×17 MT aluminum alloy REAR TYRES/RIMS: 4.50×17 MT aluminum alloy FRONT: 120/70Z R17; REAR: 160/60Z R17 LxWxH:

2150×835×1332 mm WHEELBASE: 1415 mm SEAT HEIGHT: 840 mm GROUND CLEARANCE: 170 mm FUEL CAPACITY: 18L KERB WEIGHT: 213 kg PRICE: On Request

Contact Us: Anna International Pvt. Ltd. Narayan Chaur, Naxal Phone No. 01-4437970 Email: info@annaempire.com Website: www.cfmoto.com.np facebook.com/AutolifeNepal

AUTOLIFE JULY 2018 49

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CRAFTMAN

FURNITURE

“We always work with established & great designers.

Together we create beautiful products for every kind of

your needs.“

Craftman Furniture concerns with more than just visual or ambient enhancement of an interior space, it seeks to optimize and harmonize the uses to which the built environment will be put. It truly embodies and compliments a statement with grace.

The wide range of customized furniture from craftman truly compliments the statement with the finest craftsmanship not only in design, also are functional, enhance the quality of life and culture of the occupants, and are aesthetically attractive . It’s about the finest craftsmanship that can only tune in to the rhythm of wood and so it’s about the brand name and the slogan rhythm of wood.

Narayanhity Uttar Dokha, Kathmandu, Nepal Tel. : 4001007 Email : craftmankath@gmail.com

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AUTOLIFE PRODUCT WATCH

BMW

G310R& G310GS

BMW has always been regarded as an icon in the automobile world. From upmarket ever day cars to exotic luxury saloons or be it from super-sports motorcycles to adventure tourers, BMW have crafted a name for itself. Owning a BMW has been a dream for many and even more so for the motorcycle enthusiasts to get an S 1000 RR or the R 1200 GS for the adventurers. With the same heritage in mind, BMW have launched the G310R and G310GS. Both of these motorcycles are an interesting addition to their line up and are targeted towards people who don’t want to go all out with higher cc motorcycles. However, it might not be soon that we would be seeing these set of wheels in Nepal but we believe that these bikes are something to be on the look out for. If the day ever comes, we, ourselves would love to get our hands on the BMW G310R and G310GS, and take it out for a spin. But for now, we take a closer look to what these twins have to offer.

For the past three decades, BMW Motorrad had been manufacturing bikes with large engines only and have never entered the small engine market until now. With the recent tie up with TVS, the German Giants have started producing 300cc engines and have put it in the 310 twins. The G310R is a naked variant whereas, the G310GS is an adventure variant. However, both the motorcycles share the same liquid cooled 313cc four-valve single cylinder DOHC engine that produces a maximum power of 34 horsepower and a maximum torque of 28 Nm. Also, the engine is shared with the race counterpart from TVS, the Apache RR310 and are built on the same platform. Both the engines are leaned towards the rear of the motorcycles and the cylinder heads are turned 180 degrees. The fuel injected engines come mated to a 6-speed gearbox and achieves the aforementioned figures below 10,000RPM making these motorcycles perfect for the street and the highways.

Both the motorcycles come equipped with BMW Motorrad’s 2-channel ABS unit as standard but only the adventure variant has it switchable. The twins get a 300mm disc at the front and a 240mm disc at the rear.

As for the tires the G310GS comes with 110/80-R19 front and 150/70-R17 rear, compared to the G310R, which has 110/70-R17 front and 150/60-R17 rear. Both the motorcycles get 41mm upside down forks at the front and a monoshock setup at the rear. However, the GS variant gets 40mm more travel in its suspensions compared to its counterpart.

of the motorcycle. The G310GS measures 2075mm in length, 880mm in width and 1230mm in height and the G310R measures 2005mm in length, 849mm in breadth and 1080mm in height. Even the wheelbase for the bikes are different; the G310R gets a shorter wheelbase of 1374mm to make it more agile and flickable whereas the G310GS gets a wheelbase of 1420mm to tackle all sorts of terrain and provide more stability. Also, to differentiate in the riding characteristics, the ground clearance and seat height for both the motorcycles are different. The GS gets a high ground clearance of 220mm for all the adventure riding and the R variant gets 165mm ground clearance to have a lower center of gravity. The seat heights are also set differently at 835mm and 785mm for the GS and R variants, respectively.

While being almost identical and sharing the same powertrain, both the twins were built for different purposes and these motorcycles will definitely inspire completely different riding experiences. We believe both the motorcycles are interesting addition to the 300cc motorcycle market and will definitely create a following of its own.

At a first glance both the motorcycles seem similar to each other but there some changes in the dimensions

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Specifications BMW G310R BMW G310GS Displacement: 313cc 313cc Transmission: 6-Speed 6-Speed No. of Cylinders: 1-Cylinder 1-Cylinder Max. Power: 34 HP @ 9500 RPM 34 HP @ 9500 RPM Max. Torque: 28 Nm @ 7500 RPM 28 Nm @ 7500 RPM Fuel Supply: Fuel Injection Fuel Injection Engine Cooling: Liquid-Cooled Liquid-Cooled Top Speed: 143 KMPH 143 KMPH Length: 2005 mm 2075 mm Width: 849 mm 880 mm Height: 1080 mm 1230 mm Wheelbase: 1374 mm 1420 mm Ground Clearance: 165 mm 220 mm Seat Height: 785 mm 835 mm Kerb Weight: 158.5 kg 169.5 kg Fuel Tank 11 litres 11 litres

“

BMW has always been regarded as an icon in the automobile world. From upmarket ever day cars to exotic luxury saloons or be it from super-sports motorcycles to adventure tourers, BMW have crafted a name for itself

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AUTOLIFE MY AUTOLIFE

MY AUTOLIFE WITH

PRANAY KANSAKAR

Managing Director at P. K. Kitchen Concern Pvt. Ltd. WORDS: ANKIT R. TULADHAR PHOTOS: GAURAV XHOMPATE SUNUWAR

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Mr. Pranay Kansakar is the Managing Director at P. K. Kitchen Concern Pvt. Ltd. which deals with kitchen utensils, cutleries and other related products. He is a big auto enthusiast and is very much into cars and bikes. Currently, he owns a Hyundai Sonata and a Ducati Panigale 959. Read the story to know more about his passion for anything related to automobiles.

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HOW MUCH OF AN AUTO ENTHUSIAST ARE YOU?

There is no doubt about it, I am very passionate about automobile. My passion for automobiles started out from a very young age and I have never been able to let go of this passion.

Many things came and went but my passion for automobiles never changed. If I look back at it I can actually say that it is growing even more. But all of this was accomplished only after I was self-sufficient.

PREVIOUSLY, HOW MANY VEHICLES HAVE YOU OWNED?

Previously I have owned a lot of vehicles. Talking about cars I have had about 7 different cars and I am currently driving a Hyundai Sonata. While talking about bikes the Ducati Panigale 959 is my 5th superbike. Other than that, I have owned bikes such as the Honda CBR and the Yamaha R6.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST ENCOUNTER WITH DRIVING/ RIDING?

My first encounter with driving was back when I was 5 years old. I used to sit on the lap of my father as we drove back home.

While sitting on the lap he would let me hold the steering wheel and help me with the steering of the car. This is when it all started and found my love for automobiles.

DO YOU PREFER DRIVING BY YOURSELF OR DO YOU HAVE A DRIVER?

I prefer to drive by myself, being an enthusiast, I don’t get the point of having someone else drive your car for you. I like to get the feel of driving by myself. It is not wrong to have a driver and I have one who works part time. The only time I am not driving is while going to parties and such.

IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT ARE THE PROS AND CONS OF OWNING A PREMIUM SET OF WHEELS?

I think the pros definitely outweigh the cons of owning a premium set of wheels. First of all, the features and the performance that you get from these machines are one of the most important pros of one such a vehicle. Other than that, you meet a lot of different people with the same passion as you and get to create a bond together. This however, is a con in itself too as there are some people who will just ruin the whole experience so you must have the ability to filter out the wrong people from your life. The biggest pro has to be the fact that through riding I met with this group which has turned into more of a family than friends. The bond between us is so strong that even if we don’t have a bike, we will still be in contact.

As mentioned earlier the con is when you meet toxic people who will ruin all the fun of riding, other than that the fact that at times you get a lot of unwanted attention is a big con.

We superbike owners are given the image as very proud and arrogant people but when they get to know us then it’s the complete opposite.

TILL DATE, ON WHICH CAR HAVE YOU HAD THE BEST EXPERIENCE DRIVING?

Till date the best experience I have had on a car had to be on an old Toyota corolla that we owned. The car was tuned so it had more power and torque than the normal corolla. During those days the trend of changing exhausts hadn’t started but on our way to Pokhara we hit a bump which made a hole in the exhaust. The sound was unlike any other and we drove like that to Pokhara.

On a bike it’s a lot harder to choose, I really liked the Honda CBR 600 RR and I love the Ducati Panigale 959. Both are very different to each other. While one is very smooth in terms of performance and driving but very raw in terms of safety features and electronic riding aids. The other is raw on riding experience while it is packed with safety features and electronic riding aids. So it is very hard to choose between two very different machines.

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IF YOU HAD TO CHOOSE, WHICH CAR OR BIKE WOULD YOU WANT TO OWN AS A DREAM CAR OR BIKE?

My Dream car has to be the Nissan GTR, it is one of the most affordable supercars yet it can beat some of the top dogs in terms of outright performance. Talking about my dream bike it has to be the MV Agusta F4. It is a complete package and doesn’t lack in any sectors. It has all the riding aids, has a lot of power and it absolutely beautiful. I think the GTR will not make its way to Nepal anytime soon but I hope to own the F4 in the near future.

WHAT IS ONE OF THE CRAZIEST THINGS THAT YOU HAVE DONE BEHIND A STEERING WHEEL?

When we were hanging out with friends out late we would make spontaneous plans and reach places like Nagarkot and Dhulikel in the middle of the night. At that time the MA.PA.SE rule had not been introduced so we did drink at times, but I strongly advise not to. We were lucky that nothing happened during those time but we should not push our lucks too far.

WHERE DO YOU THINK IS THE BEST DESTINATION TO DRIVE/RIDE IN NEPAL?

One of the best destinations to drive to has to be mustang, although I did not drive personally on that trip but the route was very nice and fun to drive on. But my favorite has to be the way to Pokhara.

IF YOU WERE GIVEN COMPLETE CONTROL OF THE COUNTRY, WHAT CHANGES WOULD YOU BRING ABOUT IN THE AUTOMOTIVE SCENE?

I think we are moving in the right direction in terms of traffic rules and regulations but I think that the traffic police should be a little more knowledgeable and should be on the right side of the law and I am telling this for personal experience. I had a case where I was stopped on a MA.PA.SE check and they asked me to blow on the breathalyzer. I did without hesitation but once I did that I was stopped because it should a small amount of alcohol in my body and that alcohol was from the steak that I had for dinner. It was a very small amount, I tried to convince the police that it was just the steak. I was with my family at that time and my kids got very scared as they thought I was going to be arrested. After convincing him for a long time he finally let me go. So traffic police should understand the condition and deal with it accordingly. facebook.com/AutolifeNepal

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AUTOLIFE INTERVIEW

INSURANCE TALK WITH

BISSWO RAM TIMILA CEO at NECO Insurance Ltd. WORDS: PRASHANT MANANDHAR PHOTOS: GAURAV XHOMPATE SUNUWAR

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With recent regulation brought by the government in Nepal to make third party insurance mandatory for every vehicle, we are seeing more and more people getting their vehicles insured. However, many are still puzzled with the fact how a non-life insurance works and what benefits that they can get from such kinds of insurance. So, we decided to have a conversation with Mr. Bisswo Ram Timila, CEO at NECO Insurance to clear the confusion surrounding auto insurance and got to have insight on the insurance industry. Read on to find out what Mr. Timila has to say about the budding insurance industry in Nepal.

CAN YOU BRIEFLY EXPLAIN WHAT AN AUTO INSURANCE IS AND WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF AUTO INSURANCE?

When talking about auto insurance, there are various types of automobiles such as two wheelers, four wheelers, commercial and private which means there will be various kinds of insurance as well. When people go for insurance, there are comprehensive insurance and third-party insurance. As mentioned earlier there are various types of automobiles but specifically there are two types of insurance that I have just stated.

IT’S PRETTY EVIDENT THAT THE AUTO INDUSTRY AND THE INSURANCE INDUSTRY ARE CLOSELY RELATED. CAN YOU GIVE US A BRIEF INSIGHT ON THE CORRELATION BETWEEN THE TWO INDUSTRIES?

As of recently, we can see a growth in the insurance industry and much of it is from the auto insurance segment. This also due to the regulations brought by the government that requires mandatory third-party insurance for any kind of vehicle which why there seems to be a close relation between the two industries. We can even say that auto industry has been a major part of any insurance company’s premium income; the premium collected from the auto insurance is up to 50% of the total collection.

WITH THE GROWTH IN AUTO INDUSTRY, HOW WELL DO YOU THINK HAS IT HELPED IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF INSURANCE INDUSTRY?

Of course, the growth in auto industry has been affecting the insurance industry in a very positive way. As I have mentioned earlier, 50% of the premium collected is through the auto segment. We can say that auto industry is supporting the insurance market in a very substantial manner. Overall, auto sector has been some kind of a back bone to the insurance industry and we believe that the growth in the auto sector will definitely help in the growth of the insurance industry.

Its somehow like both the industries go hand in hand and complement each other.

CAN YOU STATE THE IMPORTANCE OF AUTO INSURANCE AND WHY EVERYONE NEEDS TO GET ONE?

I must say that auto insurance is very important, but here in Nepal, the government has only made third-party insurance mandatory, so, it hasn’t been in effect to its full extent. But still, it’s a good thing that at least the third-party insurance is mandatory. Let’s take a scenario for an instance, if someone riding a motorcycle gets hit and needs medical treatment, the insurance can over up to 8 lakhs and will save the rider from all these expenses. Also, you see premium 4 wheelers that cost crores and what if someone just hits the vehicle and damages it, they would be liable to immense expenses. But thankfully, four-wheeler insurance can cover up to 50 lakhs. By stating that we believe that insurance truly protects owners or drivers from such damages therefore, it is important for everyone to get an auto insurance.

WHERE DO YOU THINK NECO INSURANCE STANDS IN THE MARKET IN TERMS OF AUTO INSURANCE? In today’s date, NECO’s premium growth is thanks to the auto industry and as of right now we rank 4th in the insurance industry. This is in terms of non-life insurance segment of the industry by premium figures. Up till the last third quarter, we made a profit of 21 crores and our premium collection will also amount to 160 crores. In accordance to that, all the claims facebook.com/AutolifeNepal

have been settled from our side which has led us to have a substantial amount of growth in the industry. So, we believe that NECO is indeed building a status for itself in the insurance market.

WHAT ARE THE GOALS AND PLANS THAT NECO IS LOOKING FORWARD TO IN THE AUTO INSURANCE MARKET?

In the context of auto insurance, NECO is the first to introduce on the spot payment. It is normal in foreign countries, but it’s a first time that it has been implemented in Nepal. On the spot payments basically mean that if there is an accident, the scenario is taken into consideration and the settlement is done at the moment with the payment being made within 24 hours of the incident. This is the same philosophy that we are trying to bring in Nepal, so if there’s an accident, one of our personnel will reach the spot and investigate the incident and every thing will be settled on the spot and try to deliver the cheque on the spot. So, as of now, we plan to staple this initiative in the auto insurance market.

WHAT DO YOU THINK NEEDS TO CHANGE FOR THE AUTO INSURANCE INDUSTRY IN NEPAL TO GROW?

The present regulation brought in by the Nepal government to mandatorily get a third-party insurance while owners pay their taxes for their blue renewal hasn’t been fully effective. In my opinion, if this rule is implemented to its fullest, I believe that the growth in premium would be even higher compared to what it is right now. Also, we still can’t see a trend where owners go for comprehensive insurance for their vehicles. Comprehensive insurance is mostly only done when the vehicle is financed for but other than that there in only a minimal amount of people who go for this kind of insurance. In the present context, with all the premium vehicles, if there is a certain damage to the vehicle then they will have to pay a substantial amount for the repair, having a full insurance of the vehicle can save them from a lot of these expenses. So, basically people have to realize the importance of insurance and then only can we see a more substantial growth in the industry.

THE CONCEPT OF INSURANCE IS FAIRLY NEW IN THE CONTEXT OF NEPAL IN TERMS OF THE MANDATORY THIRD-PARTY INSURANCE, HOW DO YOU THINK THE GENERAL PUBLIC IS TAKING IT?

I believe that the general public has positively received the mandatory law of insurance. It’s a good initiative that the government has been indulged in making such regulations and they indeed have played a very important role in developing the present scenario of insurance industry. But still, the public needs to realize the importance of having insurance and shouldn’t take it lightly.

“

AS OF RECENTLY, WE CAN SEE A GROWTH IN THE INSURANCE INDUSTRY AND MUCH OF IT IS FROM THE AUTO INSURANCE SEGMENT AUTOLIFE JULY 2018 59

AUTOLIFE TEST DRIVE

RENAULT CAPTUR

Ready to CAPTURe The Roads WORDS AND PHOTOS: AL TEAM

We have been stressing the fact about

Crossovers and SUVs selling like hot cakes in the market, so much so that we feel like we are repeating the same thing over and over again. An evidence to this claim can be seen by the number of new vehicles entering our markets in such short time span. With the market hotter than ever, it’s just a matter of time until it erupts like a volcano, but all that will come out is all of the crossovers and the compact SUVs. Having said this, the reason why people are so in love with these segments of cars are because of its practicality. It’s bigger than a normal sized hatchback while being smaller than a full-sized SUV, making it hit the sweet spot in terms of size. These cars also have decent ground clearance making it more practical on rough terrains. So, since the market is so hotly contested with lots of top notch competitors, will the Renault Captur be able to create a stir in the competitive market and establish itself as a true contender for the top spot? Let us find out together.

EXTERIOR

The Captur, being a compact SUV, doesn’t quite have the shape or the stance of an SUV. But that is what Renault was trying to do, since they already have one in the form of the Duster. The Captur has more of a curvy look going on and carries the design

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cue from the front to the rear. If you look at the front of the car from dead center, you will see that it has a very noticeable curve making it look roundish. The hood also has a gentle curve to it to follow the flow. The lighting duties are taken care of by the LED headlights which they have termed as LED Pure Vision with LED DRLs (Daytime Running Lights) below the headlight unit in a C shape.

That is also where the Fog lamps are housed.

The side indicators are housed right above the headlight and they move in a sequential order and looks very cool in motion. The chrome Renault badge is accented by two chrome stripes on each sides. On the lip of the front bumper, there lives a sliver colored skid plate to add the off-road touch along with the black wheel arches above the tires. We got the top spec Platine Dual tone version so the A, B, C pillars and the roof was finished in black which was giving a good contrast to the orange of the body. The Platine variant also gets Crystal cut 10 spoke 17-inch rims that really makes the side profile of the car pop.

The high 210mm ground clearance is clearly seen when you look at it from the side angle.

Looking above that you will see a long strip of chrome running from the front door to the rear door. From the rear, the Captur looks more like a Hatchback than a Compact SUV with the very rounded and curvy look. There is a roof spoiler to add a touch of sportiness to the car. facebook.com/AutolifeNepal

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“

THE CAPTUR HAS MORE OF A CURVY LOOK GOING ON AND CARRIES THE DESIGN CUE FROM THE FRONT TO THE REAR

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INTERIOR

The interior of the Captur looks very welcoming with the gold accents on the leather seats, doors and the dash. The gold accents and the back interior work very well together, with hints of bronze on the A/C vents. Combined with quilted stitching on the seats make it look very elegant. The seats were very nice and comfortable with ample of support. The seating, however, is a bit tight on the rear seats, when we had three full sized adults sitting on the back they were rubbing shoulders and had a bit of a tough time with the leg room. It wasn’t very tight or cramped, but just a little on the tighter side. The 7-inch touch screen has been carried over from the Kwid and the climate controls from the Duster.

The interior would have been better if it comprised of soft touch material on the top of the dash where there is most contact. The Captur featured keyless entry and the key was different than the normal keys. It was more like a flat rectangular remote which you had to insert under the climate control, there was a slot dedicated for you to slide it inside. Only after you put it in, you could start the vehicle with the push of the start/ stop button. The instrument cluster looks nice with the rev counter on the left side, the digital speedometer on the middle and the fuel gauge on the right.

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PERFORMANCE

The model we tested had a K9K 1.5L diesel engine under the hood. The car produced 110 HP @ 3850 RPM and 245 Nm of torque @ 1750 RPM. The turbo charged engine lagged quite a bit at lower revs due to the turbo lag but once you get the RPM higher in the rev range then the Captur starts picking up speed fast. The 6-speed manual transmission was very smooth and easy to operate, with short throws and precise changing. This vehicle is a very capable off-road machine due to the high clearance and decent power figures but the fact that this vehicle is currently only available in front wheel drive option is what limits its capability. The suspension was setup in a very sweet spot; not too stiff, not too soft.

The suspension setup aided in making this car handle very sharp. The steering had a good weight to it which gave us more confidence to push the Captur to its limits.

And if you do tend to push it beyond its limits, there are safety features to make sure that it doesn’t end badly such as ABS (Antilock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution) and brake assist to make sure you stop safely. On top of that it has ESC (Electronic Stability Control) to make sure that you are stable at all times.

It also has two front airbags and side airbags just in case things go from bad to worse. On top of that it has other neat features such as automatic headlights, rain sensing wipers, parking sensors and rear-view camera to make parking safer.

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VERDICT

The Captur is a well-rounded car with ample of features, decent power, good looks and pretty good handling. It doesn’t have the boxy look of an SUV but it does have a heart of an SUV and that is what’s more important. Renault doesn’t need to have two boxy SUVs already having the Duster in its line up and with the fact that they share the same wheelbase. So, Renault wanted to have a compact SUV that had more of a European styling to it. The petrol variant of the Captur starts from NRs. 4,814,345/- to NRs. 5,532,814/- and the diesel variant starts from NRs. 5,163,704/- to 6,489,307/-. So, if your budget is right in that ball park and you want the practicality of an SUV but don’t want that bulk then this is the perfect vehicle for you. With its European styling it does standout from its competitors and makes a strong case for itself.

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Specifications 1.5 Petrol 1.5 Diesel Engine Type: H4K Petrol Engine K9K dCi Diesel Engine Engine Displacement: 1498 cc 1461 cc Fuel Type: Petrol Diesel Power: 106 PS @ 5600 RPM 110 PS @ 3850 RPM Torque: 142 Nm @ 4000 RPM 240 Nm @ 1750 RPM No Of Cylinders: 4 4 Transmission: Manual Manual Gear Box: 5 Speed 6 Speed Suspension Front: Mac Pherson strut with Lower Transverse link, coil spring suspension Rear:

Twist beam suspension with coil spring twin tube

telescopic shock-absorber Brakes Front: Disc Brakes Disc Brakes Rear: Drum Drum Steering Type: Power Power Minimum Turning Radius: 5.2meters 5.2meters Tyre Size: 215/65 R16-215/60/R17 215/65 R16-215/60/R17 Wheel Size: R16/R17 R16/R17 Tyre Type: Radial, Tubeless Radial, Tubeless Boot Space: 392 Litres 392 Litres Fuel Capacity: 50 Liters 50 Liters Ground Clearance: 210mm 210mm Length Width Height: 4329x1813x1619 4329x1813x1619 Wheelbase: 2673mm 2673mm Price: NRs. 4,814,345/- to NRs. 5,163,704/- to NRs. 5,532,814/- NRs.6,489,307

Contact Us: Advanced Automobiles Pvt. Ltd. Thapathali, Kathmandu Phone No. 9851229996, 9801027012

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AUTOLIFE FEATURE

How green can you be?

CO2

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f you haven’t heard folks, green is the new black. It’s been the buzz word for over a decade all over the world. People have invested trillions of dollars into it and have also created new industries out of it. It’s time we step up our game and get on the Green bandwagon. You might be thinking that your vehicle is pretty environment friendly and you’ve already gotten on the Green bandwagon, but trust me, I’ll change your opinion on how Green you are by the end of this article.

agencies across the globe working on making vehicles more efficient, reducing tailpipe emissions, and that has helped tremendously in controlling pollution all over the world. But the fact still remains that no matter how efficient your vehicle is, if you burn a litre of fuel you produce CO2. Multiply that by the number of people on the streets and you have a catastrophe in the making. We have been greatly neglecting the impact of fuel on our environment and its high time we change that.

All our life we’ve been using fuel efficiency and fuel economy (refer to previous issue) as a benchmark to gauge the economic and environmental impact of fuel consumption. Sure, it has helped us be a little conscious by thinking with our wallets and as a secondary benefit lowering the environmental impact by a little bit, but these days we’re talking about hundreds and thousands of vehicles plying the streets of our country.

Kilometers per liter is just not going to cut it anymore! We need to delve a little deeper and understand that no matter how efficient your vehicle might be, unless you don’t use it or don’t own one, you’re polluting the environment.

We as a country import 1,450,000,000 litres of fuel every year! All of that fuel is consumed by us on our daily commutes, from starting the day by going to the gym, going to work, hanging out with our buddies, going to the movies, etc.

This all add up to the amount of fuel we consume as commuters, be it directly or indirectly. Assuming a 50-50 use of petrol and diesel the average CO2 production comes to 2.45 kgs per litre of fuel consumed. Resulting in a total approximation of about 3.5 billion kgs of CO2 produced annually as a country.

The data provided by the International Energy Agency shows that per capita CO2 emissions is 200 kgs per person annually for the whole of Nepal. But the story is different for Kathmandu, where most of the fuel imported in to Nepal is consumed. In 2012, 46% of total petrol imported and 16% of total diesel imported was consumed in the valley amounting to 31% of total fuel imports of the country. The reduction in air quality of the valley can be directly linked to the fuel consumed in the valley with

Here’s a fact for you, a litre of diesel when burned produces 2.6 kgs of carbon dioxide (CO2) and a litre of petrol when burned produces 2.3 kgs of CO2. The reason behind getting more mass of CO2 than the mass of fuel consumed is because of the oxygen added to the combustion process. We see vehicle manufacturers and environmental

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increasing number of sales of vehicles.

38% of PM10 pollutants has been linked to tailpipe emissions in the valley which, if uncontrolled will only get worse by the day.

Kathmandu’s demand of 450 million litres of fuel annually to service the needs of about 3 million people living in the valley amounts to a per capita fuel consumption of 150 litres of fuel per year.

At a rate of 2.45 kgs per litre, Kathmandu valley produces 1.1 billion kgs of CO2 a year and a per capita CO2 emission of 367.5 kgs of CO2 a year per person. That is 83% more than the rest of the country; no wonder our air quality is suffering so much. There are other factors involved in the devastation of our air quality, but the power to change that is in our hands.

Clearly, we are on a path of self destruction, I may sound like a doomsday prophet shouting out loud that the end is near, but it definitely does sound like the end is near if we keep going at this rate. However, all is not lost, there are several options before us that we can adopt or implement right now that will help us save our valley, our country and our future generations, and maybe even get a chance to go on TED Talks and talk about how Green we are like Bhutan did a few years ago claiming that they were carbon negative. It’s a noble thought for us, and one that is not too late for us to implement.

The idea is to offset our carbon footprint and for our purposes we shall look at it on a personal level. As a resident of facebook.com/AutolifeNepal

“

Kathmandu produces about 1.1 billion kgs of CO2 a year, just to offset that we need to plant 50.6 million trees

Kathmandu, my average fuel consumption is 150 litres of petrol a year. I produce about 345 kgs of CO2 annually and I need to offset the amount of CO2 produced by me. I can offset my CO2 emission by either not using any fuel at all, by opting to ride a bicycle, or electric vehicles; or by planting trees to help in capturing the CO2 released by fuel. With various options in the market now-a-days like NIU Mobility, Terra motors, Mahindra Reva, Kia Soul EV, etc. available in the market (as mentioned in previous articles relating to the scope of electric vehicles) reducing our carbon footprint has become easier. Along with that if we plan on planting trees along the roads and in our backyards, it will help even more.

I say this because just planting trees is not going to help us reach our goal (of this article) to become carbon neutral and even carbon negative if we can. We can plan on planting trees, but how many trees do we plant? Where do we plant these trees? A typical tree can absorb about 22 kgs of CO2 a year; that’s another sad fact for you. As we established above that Kathmandu produces about 1.1 billion kgs of CO2 a year, just to offset that we need to plant 50.6 million trees. That comes out to around 17 trees per person living in the Valley. You might say that we have many trees surrounding the valley and surely that is enough to offset our tailpipe emissions, but we must understand that those trees have existed even before we started polluting. But that isn’t bad considering our neighbors to the north and south, where India needs to plant 54 trees per person and China needs to plant 208 trees per person.

Whereas, an average American need to plant 909 trees to be carbon neutral.

For our quest to be carbon neutral, it is not too late to act. If we are able to plant trees now which will reduce our carbon footprint once they start growing, and start using alternative sources of transport, carpooling when possible and using public transport when feasible, we can surely decrease our carbon footprint, but we should act now before the situation worsens. So, let us all find it in ourselves and make an effort to reach a milestone where we can also boast of being carbon neutral or even carbon negative in the very near future. facebook.com/AutolifeNepal

Contributed by Kalash Ratna Tuladhar, Founder at Iron Monk Works: Mr. Tuladhar is a graduate from the Minnesota State University in Automotive Engineering Technology. He formerly worked for MV Agusta and Bikers Nepal as the Head of after sales.

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AUTOLIFE EVOLUTION

ROYAL HERITAGE OF THE ENFIELD

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adakh holds the highest motorable road which has now come to be known as the Mecca for motor enthusiasts around the world. Many motorcycle riders have made the grueling journey into the great Himalayan road in all forms of two wheelers but we’re sure the one brand that came to your mind was Royal Enfield. Royal Enfield motorcycles have become a staple brand for riders to take them through the high passes of the lofty Himalayas. Whether it’s a whole battalion or a solo thumper, not a day goes by where you won’t see a Royal Enfield up in Ladakh. During the journey to Ladakh, an Enfield rider will wave at another Enfield rider when they meet in a journey despite being strangers. This unison and bond that Royal Enfield creates is what gives Royal Enfield a legendary cult following which only a few other brands can claim to share this feat.

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Royal Enfield proudly holds the title of the longest running motorcycle company and on the contrary, there’s only been minimal changes made to the original design of its motorcycles. Yet, the dinosaur still has people that dream of going to Ladakh on an Enfield, an incredible cult following and a powerful bond among its riders. Perhaps we can find answers as to why all this is possible as we walk through Royal Enfield’s rich heritage.

Albert Eadie and R.W. Smith formed a partnership and took over Townsend Cycle Company which was situated in Reddich to eventually have it constructed to Enfield Manufacturing Company Ltd. Enfield Manufacturing Company Ltd. started supplying precision rifle parts to the Royal Small Arms factory in Enfield, Middlesex in 1891. In 1893, the company, Royal Enfield was born. The word Royal was taken from Royal Small Arms Company thus they derived the trademark “Made Like a Gun”.

It was in 1901, Royal Enfield produced its first motorized bicycle where its engine was mounted to the front wheel and was belt driven. In 1913, Royal Enfield made a 2 stroke 225cc single cylinder engine and a 2 stroke 425cc V-twin engine on its own motorcycle. Then later in 1915 they used that 225cc engine in production model, Model 200 and launched it.

1916, during the first World War, Royal Enfield supplied the royal army with 6hp bikes equipped with Lewis machine guns and stretchers.

Then post World War 1, Royal Enfield resumed supplying bikes to civilians, this time, with an additional side car option.

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At time went on, Royal Enfield even saw success in the Isle of Man TT(IOMTT) – Steve Linsdell was a former motorcycle road racer who debuted in the IOMTT and stunned the opposition party winning second place. Over the next two seasons, he dominated the event while his second ride was the 700cc Royal Enfield Meteor.

1932 saw the first of Royal Enfield’s legendary series of the “Bullet”. The Bullet was then, given character with a 350cc, 4 valve inclined engine with an exposed valve gear. The Bullet was a testament of speed, versatility and endurance and this was the motorcycle that typified the Royal Enfield Culture.

In 1940, Royal Enfield provided the British army with the “Flying Flea” or the “Airbone” which was a light motorcycle that could be dropped in parachutes along with the troops during World War 2.

They also supplied the British army with 499cc WD/J2 motorcycles which played a vital role in transporting men, machines and medicines across the continent.

Royal Enfield in 1946, patented the iconic “neutral finder” which was used on their motorcycles. It consists of a small lever placed on the gearbox, which brings the motorcycle into neutral when tapped on it.

In 1950, Royal Enfield launched the 650cc Meteor twin. The Meteor twin is said to be the world’s first superbike by enthusiasts. Then later in 1953, Madras Motors bought bikes for Indian army from Royal Enfield, where 750 Bullets were brought. In 1955, Madras Motors launched the 350cc “Bullet” in India on account of acquiring a bulk order from the Indian Army. They launched Royal Enfield motorcycles in India and then in 1955, Madras Motors received the license

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to manufacture Royal Enfield motorcycles. Royal Enfield in the 1950s gave birth to some creative engineering, namely the Crusader and the Constellation.

In the 1960s, Royal Enfield introduced the 750cc bike, the “Interceptor” and the landmark Continental GT café racer. This introduction was a response to the change in attitude towards motorcycling for the youths that time. But sadly, we witneshed the downfall of Royal Enfield’s Redditch factory in 1966 as it shuts down. Despite the unfortunate turn of events, operations in India pushed forward.

The 70s and 80s greeted Royal Enfield with much optimism as Indian manufactured Royal Enfield motorcycles began selling in the UK and the international export began flourishing with European distributors supplying to a newer generation of enthusiasts.

The 90s saw a number of events with Royal Enfield; 1993: Royal Enfield launched the Bullet 500, the first 500cc Indian motorcycle.

1994: Eicher group acquires Enfield India Ltd. then changes name to Royal Enfield.

1997: 40 Royal Enfield motorcycles ride from Delhi to Khardhungla (The world’s highest motorable road) which then marked the birth of the Himalayan Odyssey 1998: Royal Enfield launched the Machismo 350 which possessed the signature lean burn aluminum engine.

By 2003, Royal Enfield had touched the heart of many which lead to the genesis of the Rider Mania. In 2005, Royal Enfield celebrated 50 years of production to which Royal Enfield officially made the Himalayan Odyssey an annual event in its celebration. Fast forward to November 24th, 2011 and it marked the beginning of a new era for the iconic brand as the foundations for its second plant were laid in Orragadam, the industrial heartland on the outskirts of Chennai.

The Royal Enfield Bullet is the longest running motorcycle model in continuous production. A testament to its design and character, however, it is the classic design of the 60s that the Royal Enfield is now visiting. Responding to another change in attitude towards life on two wheels, September 2013 brought the Continental GT back to become a part of the Royal Enfield product family.

By this time, Royal Enfield was ready for something new. Being the staple for a journey to the Himalayas, Royal Enfield set out to create a purpose built motorcycle that can traverse beautiful landscape of the high mountains. The concept behind the machine was something that can flow with the terrain rather

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than to dominate it. In early 2016, India finally saw Royal Enfield’s Himalayan which was built from the ground up and had an all new 411cc engine and a completely new design and the Himalayan was ready to venture into the Himalayas. Later in early 2018, Royal Enfield felt ready to set course to foreign shores as they began exporting their adventurer to various countries like the United States and Australia.

Royal Enfield didn’t stop there as they globally unveiled their plans to bring back the Interceptor which will be accompanied by the Continental GT in the 2017 EICMA auto show. Both models are to share a 650cc parallel twin engine. The new models herald another evolutionary step for Royal Enfield. Looking to its past, they have created a beautiful machine for the future.

One that’s classic and one that’s modern to continue Royal Enfield’s epic journey.

Like it was mentioned earlier, Royal Enfield is the longest running motorcycle company and has stood the testament of time and now holds a rich heritage which has sparked a new generation of enthusiast called the Bulleteers. The relationship that these riders have developed with their motorcycles and its heritage have become more than just a hobby, it’s become a way of life. And it is this beautiful bond that Royal Enfield can create with its product which is something one can only comprehend, not from words, but from experience.

Royal Enfield is the longest running motorcycle company and has stood the testament of time and now holds a rich heritage which has sparked a new generation of enthusiast called the Bulleteers

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AUTOLIFE GEARS

THE ESSENTIALS FOR THE RIDERS’ SAKE

Riding JACKETS Gears: COMPILED BY: PRASHANT MANANDHAR

Welcome back to our Riding Gears series where we talk about the essentials of why a rider should invest in proper set of safety gears. Back in our first issue, we mentioned the 5 most important pieces of safety gear that every rider should use and touched base on the importance of each one of them. We still cannot stress enough on how riding a two-wheeler means that you are exposed to so much potential accidents compared to a four-wheeled vehicle and how riding gears can save you from all the injuries and added hassle of medical treatments. We have already talked in depth about helmets and riding gloves, now, this time around we shall be going in depth about riding jackets.

Not only do riding jackets make you look badass, but they save you from a lot of unpredicted accidents and injuries. In addition to all safety that a riding jacket provides, they even protect you from adverse weather conditions as well, as compared to a casual day to day jacket. Normally, we can see people wearing just a simple windcheater in the summer to protect them from the sun and dust, but do you think that these would cause more harm while riding motorcycles or would a crash cause more damage? Well, it’s pretty oblivious that the latter would have substantial damage to your body, causing all sorts of bruises and road rashes, and no, just a simple windcheater or a hoodie is enough during rides. Riding jackets are specially crafted to protect the rider during an accident and to save yourself from spending hospital bills, we think that it’s a better idea to invest in a good quality riding jacket.

We have already stressed it many times before, and we can’t stress it enough, two wheelers can be really fun to ride around but sadly it just doesn’t provide the structural protection that a four-wheeler would. This basically means that a rider is much more susceptible to road damage than a driver would be. These are the reasons why you hear the term ‘ATGATT’ from riders which stands for ‘All the Gear All the Time’. Thus, every piece of riding gear is a must and there are reasons to back up the fact that you need protective gears to keep yourself from harms ways. So, what are the reasons that you need to own a quality riding jacket and why it is important? We have summed it up for you in the following points:

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FOR STARTERS, IT PROVIDES PROTECTION

Almost all riding jackets have impact protection and come with either a built-in or removable armor. The major crash prone areas come padded in a jacket. It includes the shoulders, elbows, back and sometimes the chest. There are many options of such padding and have different levels of protection; the lowest being foam layers and the highest being CE II rated armors. These armors need to be elastic enough to distribute the energy during a crash and at the same time, they shouldn’t restrict your movement or compromise comfort in any ways. The main purpose of such protectors is to keep your body safe during a crash. All the variable armors mean that riding jackets will have varying prices in relation to level of armor that it comes with. We recommend going in for something that comes with a certified armor instead of just looking at the price tag. facebook.com/AutolifeNepal

SAVES YOU FROM GETTING ROAD RASHES

Riding jackets are generally made out of two materials, one being leather and the other being textile. The performance of the jacket depends on the quality of materials used. The reason for using leather is because leather has amazing abrasion resistance and the thickness of the leather determines the quality. Textile jackets are usually made from high-quality nylon or Kevlar and are lighter in weight as compared to leather jackets. So, because of the materials used in the jacket, if you are to crash and slide on the asphalt, these jackets will protect you from burns and rashes that you might get from the crash.

OFFER WEATHER PROTECTION

Riding jackets comes with options which won’t stop you from riding in the rain or in cold weather. Some jackets come with materials that are waterproof and will save from the rain, others come with a waterproof liner which can be attached to the jacket during rain. Also, most riding jackets come with thermal liners as well for the brave ones who are willing to ride out in the freezing cold.

COMFORT TO THE RIDER

Apart from all the safety aspects of a jacket, it even offers the rider with comfort. Most jackets come with ventilation options so that you don’t suffocate yourself during summer rides. Also, riding jackets are designed to protect you from the oncoming wind blasts on a motorcycle. So, all these mean that jackets are constructed with comfort in mind as well and they are pretty good at protecting you from the sun, heat and the wind.

THE FEEL

If you ask any motorcyclist about riding a motorcycle, the first thing that all them would speak of is the feel and riding experience that they get from it. Riding gears are something that add to the riding feel. By wearing a riding jacket, it not only gives you the added safety and comfort, but it also gives more confident to the rider. Therefore, motorcycle jackets have been an iconic staple in a rider’s apparel and will definitely induce an amazing riding experience.

By far, we have mentioned all the relevant reasons for why you should invest on a riding jacket. But what are the things to consider while getting yourself a new riding jacket. First off, there are many options and you might just get confused to what you should buy, so you need to identify your riding style and get a jacket that suits your riding style and caters to your riding needs. Secondly, the fit of the jacket is a very important thing that you need to consider. In general, a riding jacket needs to be snug around your upper body but its always a good choice to get a jacket that is one size bigger so that you can fit in more clothes to keep yourself warm during winter. Lastly, the price is something to be considered, but don’t go cheap, you might just end up compromising on the safety. Go for jackets that are fairly priced for the level of protection they provide and the materials that they use. Look for jackets that have certified armor and use premium quality materials that are optimum for riding.

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SERIES

4

This time around, we have compiled on the aspects for why you need a riding jacket to enhance your riding experience even more.

Follow through to our next series of riding gears, where we shall be talking about another piece of riding gear for the sake of the rider.

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AUTOLIFE LIFESTYLE

AUTO-LIFESTYLE

VIRTUAL SIMULATOR:

FORZA HORIZON 3 AUTO READS:

TWIST OF THE WRIST VOL. 1 For over 20 years, Twist of the Wrist has been the high-performance rider’s bible. This book is more than just a bunch of key element of cornering but everything that you need to know about riding your motorcycle fast. Imagine any what and how about riding and you will find all your answers in here.

The Twist of the Wrist provides anyone with an unforgettable and simple form to shape their riding and it applies to all situations. This interactive book contains the text, drawings, diagrams, illustrations and photographs which will help to guide you and it literally puts all these vital information at your fingertips. Gain the same knowledge that countless street riders and scores of racing champions have used to identify their barriers and build a solid foundation for riding confidence.

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MOVIE TO WATCH:

GONE IN 60 SECONDS (2000) Fast cars, guns blazing, police chase and explosions, well who does not love to watch that on screen. Gone in 60 Seconds is a movie meant for all those who are into cars in action. Released back in 2000, the movie features the stunning Angelina Jolie and Nicholas Cage. This plot in the movie is about a retired car thief forced to steal 50 luxury cars in one night for the sake of saving his brother’s life. Now, if this doesn’t sound impossible then what is?

Nicolas Cage plays Memphis Raines, once the most successful car thief in California, reassemble his old band of car boosters to fulfill the almost impossible mission. Like 50 cars in one night was not enough, his task is further hampered by a rival band of thieves and none the less, the local police.

Forza Horizon 3 is one of the best open world environment racing game based on a fictional representation of Australia. The expansive gameplay is twice the size of its predecessor in the series Forza Horizon 2, and includes locales such as Surfers Paradise, Byron Bay, Yara Valley, Woods Point, Coober Pedy and the Outback.

Forza Horizon 3 transcends players into the realistic world of what a virtual world can be and it certainly does not miss out on any details of vehicles and physics. The best part of this game is the breath taking game environment which is hard to distinguish from reality. The game pushes players into an adrenaline rush of speed and thrill of racing in high definition.

Unlike other games, where you have to follow the constriction of the game, Forza allows player to roam around the open world and experience the feeling of driving off to horizon.

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GET FASHIONABLE:

DUCATI SCRAMBLER CROSS COUNTRY MEN’S TECHNICAL BOOTS

MOTORHEAD’S JUKEBOX:

FLEETWOOD MAC’S THE CHAIN You might have heard this song on many movies and yet never have known the title. “The Chain” is a song by the British-American rock band Fleetwood Mac, released on their best-selling album Rumors. If you listen to music while driving or riding, trust me, you want to listen to this.

The smooth and soothing music will turn your destination into a memorable journey. “The Chain” would be an excellent addition to your playlist during your long hours on the highway.

POWER ACCESSORIES:

HARLEY DAVIDSON BELTS

What do you look for in the shoes you buy? Design, style, comfort, safety and so on. One way or the other we have to skip and compromise on one or the other feature. Well, here’s a shoe which covers all you look for and so much more.

Designed with the Comfort Fit System, the Scrambler Cross Country boots are much more than just sneakers. A special construction system that faithfully reproduces the anatomy of the foot, Scrambler boots provide a high level of comfort. The upper layer is in full-grain leather with a vintage touch, the interior includes an advanced waterproof and breathable membrane while the sole is in anti-slip, abrasionresistant rubber. Protectors on the tip, heel and ankle bone complete the profile of these CE-certified sneakers.

INFLUENCING COLORS:

RACING RED

If this does not define cool and straight up bad ass, then what does?

“Always put on a belt that goes with what you are wearing”, we’ve heard this and read this countless time and yet when it’s time to buckle up, most of us go with simple square buckle on a good pair of denim which screams boring.

Now, these Harley Davidson belts are stylish, fashionable and more importantly, these belts go with any denim outfit, and perhaps we can guarantee that you will look great every time you put on these around your hips. If you are a moto enthusiast, especially a Harley fan, you would definitely want to have these in your wardrobe.

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Well who does not love the color red, specially when it signifies passion, determination, desire, love and power. The Italian car companies are known for manufacturing their fastest beauty in red and they call it “Rosso Corsa” aka Racing red. The tradition started since 1920s and it still follows. Every time you imagine a Ferrari, we bet you see a beautiful red car and it feels almost like a beautiful Senorita in a red gown. Well, if these reasons are not convincing enough for you to choose racing red this month then, what is? facebook.com/AutolifeNepal

(Group of Companies) P.O. BOX. NO. 3968, KAMALADI, KATHMANDU, NEPAL TEL. 977-01-4221585, 4263480, 4244651, FAX : 977-01-4220178 Email : temtig@mos.com.np, Web : www.templetigernepal.com

Green Jungle Resort Pvt. ltd.

Chitwan National Park, Westsector, Amaltari P.O.Box No. 3968, Kamaladi, Kathmandu, Nepal.

Tel. : 00977-01-4263480, 4244651 (Head Office) Fax : 00977-01-4220178 E-mail : marketing@templetigernepal.com

Deluxe Room With Free WiFi

Temple Tiger Apartment Tridevi Marg, Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal Tel: 01-4414843 E-mail: templetigerapartment@gmail.com

Airline Ticketing 01-4223070

DomestiC & international

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NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE

Updated July 2018 Disclaimer: All prices are subject to change without prior notice. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Model

Displacement

Price

Continental Associates Pvt Ltd,Dhumbarahi, Kathmandu Tel: 01-4650794 | 44015653

ISUZU D-Max V-Cross

2499 cc

64,99,000

D-Max S-Cab

2499 cc

39,90,000

MU-X

2999 cc

1,09,00,000

Model

1198 cc

Go

Redi-Go

25,99,000

799 cc

15,25,000 to 18,79,000 9,75,000 to 20,25,000

Punto Pure

1172 cc

22,89,000 to 24,25,000

Punto Evo

1172 cc

31,80,000

Avventura

1268cc (Diesel)

40,95,000

Punto Abarth

1368 cc

39,95,000

Avventura Abarth

1368 cc

1499 cc

Eco-Sport Ford Endeavour All New Figo

2198cc 3198cc 1196cc 1496 cc Petrol 1496 cc Diesel 1199cc Petrol 1499cc Diesel

Freestyle Ranger

3198cc 11961499cc

Aspire

(Petrol) 1495 cc (Diesel)

43,50,000

38,75,000 to

Cr-V RVSI

1997 cc

1,07,75,000

Mobilio

1497 cc

38,00,000 to 43,00,000

Civic

1598cc

68,00,000 to

WRV

1199 CC (Petrol) 1498 CC (Diesel)

JAZZ 1.2

1199 CC (Petrol)

34,00,000 to 42,25,000

BRV 1.5

1497 CC (Petrol)

42,00,000 to 54,75,000

75,00,000 41,25,000 to 49,50,000

Laxmi Intercontinental P.L Thapathali Tel: 4101556 | 4101557

Elantra

1591 cc

59,96,000

Eon

814 cc

18,96,000 to

Grand I10

1197 cc

Santa Fe

2199 cc

Tucson

1998 cc

Veloster

1591 cc

75,96,000

New Verna

1591 cc

42,96,000 46,96,000

Xcent

1197 cc

30,96,000 to 33,56,000

Elite i20

1197 cc

30,96,000 to 36,96,000

26,96,000 to 99,96,000 to 1,22,96,000 81,96,000 to 1,02,96,000

1,21,00,000 to 1,39,00,000 21,99,000 to 31,99,000 25,99,000 to 35,99,000 2799000 to 3699000

i20 Active

69,00,000 to 7,74,00,000 26,90,000 to 35,90,000

Creta

38,90,000

11,200,000

XV Crosstrek

2000cc

96,00,000 to 10,00,000

Syakar Trading Company P. L Dhobighat Tel: 5549741 | 4225490 |4253522

BR-V

1497 cc

33,96,000

48,90,000

2000cc

Jazz

City

34,40,000 to

Forester

HONDA

27,50,000 to 34,50,000

22,96,000

Vijay Motors Pvt. Ltd, Naxal, KTM Tel: 4414625 | 4425603

SUBARU

1198 cc

HYUNDAI

Go Automobiles Pvt. Ltd, Thapathali, KTM Tel: 4244254 | 4257001

FORD

Brio

32,75,000 to

52,75,000

Life Automobiles Pvt. Ltd. Gairidhara Tel: 4004644 | 4004645

FIAT

1198 cc

22,39,000 to

1198 cc

999cc

Amaze

35,75,000

23,99,000 Go+ (T)

Price

Syakar Trading Company P. L Dhobighat Tel: 5549741 | 4225490 |4253522

HONDA

Pioneer Motorcorp Pvt Ltd, Thapathali, Kathmandu Tel: 6203567

DATSUN

Displacement

New Grand i10

1197 cc (Petrol) 1396 cc (Diesel) 1591cc (Petrol) 1582 cc (Diesel)

1197cc

37,96,000 to 42,96,000 42,96,000 to 61,96,000

26,96,000 to 32,56,000

Continental Associates Pvt Ltd,Dhumbarahi, Kathmandu Tel: 01-4650794 | 44015653

KIA Picanto

998cc

24,99,000 to 30,49,000 41, 00,000 to

1199 cc

34,00,000 to 42,25,000

Rio (Hatchback & Sedan)

1396 cc

1497 cc

42,00,000 to 54,75,000

Sorento

2199 cc

48,00,000 1,25,00,000

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Model

Displacement

Price

Continental Associates Pvt Ltd,Dhumbarahi, Kathmandu Tel: 01-4650794 | 44015653

KIA

Model

MITSUBISHI

Displacement

Price

Leon Motors Pvt. Ltd, Shantinagar Tel: 4622074 | 4622485

Soul

1600 cc

55,95,000 to 59,95,000

Asx

1998 cc

Sportage

1998 cc

78,95,000 to

Outlander

2360 cc

1,14,00,000

Pajero

3200 cc

14,400,000 to

Pajero 3 Door

3200cc

95,75,000 to 99,50,000

96,95,000 Carnival

2092cc

75,00,000 to 80,00,000

Kia Soul EV

Electric Motor

56,00,000 to 58,00,000

MAHINDRA Bolero

Agni Incorporated Pvt. Ltd, Uttar Dhoka Tel: 4414626 | 4414628 2523 cc

1,62,50,000

MG MOTORS MG3

29,50,000 to

11,850,000

PARAMOUNT MOTORS PVT. LTD. Kathmandu, Nepal Tel: 01-4783841 1498 cc

3,600,000

1796 cc

49,50,000 to

NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE

Disclaimer: All prices are subject to change without prior notice. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

35,00,000 Bolero Camper

2523 cc

MG GS

19,25,000 to 23,90,000

Bolero Maxi Truck

2523 cc

69,90,000

16,25,000 to

Genio

2523 cc

17,95,000

Scorpio

2523 cc

38,60,000 to 59,95,000

Quanto

1493 cc

49,90,000

MG ZS

16,95,000

Pioneer Moto Corp Pvt. Ltd, Kamaladi, Kathmandu, 014427871

NISSAN

33,15,000 to

Micra Active

1198cc

25,99,000 to 28,99,000

Navara

2488 cc

74,49,000 to 80,99,000

37,55,000 Scorpio Pick-Up

2609 cc

31,45,000 to 36,65,000

Thar

2489 cc

37,85,000

Sunny

XUV500

2179 cc

52,50, 000 to

X-trail

72,95,000 Xylo

2489 cc

KUV100

1198cc (Petrol) 1198cc (Diesel)

35,35,000 to

Terrano

43,20,000

TUV300

1493cc (Diesel)

26,95,000 – 31,95,000 31,45,000 – 36,45,000

RAPID

36,95,000 –

Padma Shree Pvt. Ltd, Gyaneshwor Tel: 4435688 | 4435631 Cx-5

1998 cc

92,50,000 to 1,05,00,000

Mazda 3

1600 cc

67,50,000

Bt-50

2499 cc

55,00,000

Mazda 6

2000 cc

81,00,000

Mazda 2

1498 cc

48,00,000

1598cc (Petrol) 1461cc (Diesel)

39,69,000 to 40,99,000 1,22,00,000 to 1,27,50,000 42,99,000 to 53,99,000

M.A.W Enterprises Thapathali Tel: 4216835 | 4268788

SKODA

45,95,000

MAZDA

1498cc (Petrol) 1461cc (Diesel) 1997cc

OCTAVIA YETI Superb Kodiaq

PEUGEOT

1598 cc (Petrol) 1498cc (Diesel)

36,95,000 to

1968 cc

76,44,00O

1968 CC

72,95,000 to

1968cc 1968cc

51,45,000 41,45,000 to 57,45,000

79,95,000 1,16,00,000 13,650,000

Shangrila Motors Pvt. Ltd Thapathali, Kathmandu 01-4101655, 4101559

508

1598cc

95,00,000

2008

1199cc

74,99,000 to

3008

1598cc

82,00,000 11,3,000 to 11,900,000

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AUTOLIFE JULY 2018 85

NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE

Updated July 2018 Disclaimer: All prices are subject to change without prior notice. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Model

Displacement

Price

Model

IMS Motors Naxal (opposite to Police Headquarter) Tel: 01-4412055, 9802002750

SSANGYONG Tivoli

1597cc

XLV

1597cc

Safari Storme

68,99,000

2179 cc

Price 46,75,000 to 61,75,000

Nexon

56,99,000 to 65,99,000 58,99,000 to

Displacement

1198 cc Petrol

32,75,000 to

1498 cc Diesel

45,55,000

United Traders Syndicate, Dhumbarahi Tel: 4008801- 4008805

TOYOTA

79,99,000 to

Korando

1998cc

Actyon Sports

1998cc

61,99,000

Rexton

2157cc

11,199,000 to

95,99,000

Etios Cross

1496 cc Petrol

41,25,000

1364 cc Diesel

43,90,000

Fortuner

2755 cc

1,30,00,000 to 1,36,00,000

Hilux

2755 cc

80,50,000

11,999,000 CG|Motocorp, Jhamsikhel Tel: 5547165 | 5547166

SUZUKI

796 cc

Alto 800

15,99,000 to 17,99,000

Alto K10

998 cc

20,29,000

Land Cruiser

4461 cc

1,73,00,000 to 3,23,00,000

Celerio

998 cc

23,49,000 to

Land Cruiser Prado

2982 cc

1,84,00,000 -

Rav4

2494 cc

Hiace

2494 cc

Innova Crysta

2393cc 2755cc

26,99,000 1196 cc

Eeco

19,59,000 to

2,33,00,000

19,69,000 796 cc

Omni

10,49,000 to

1,30,00,000

14,29,000 1197 cc

Swift

27,49,000 to

1197 cc

Ciaz

1373 cc

New Wagon R VXi

998 cc

Baleno

1197cc

Vitara Brezza

1248cc

67,00,000 68,00,000

31,59,000 Swift Dzire

1,06,00,000 -

69,50,000 to 92,75,000

30,99,000 to 37,39,000 34,49,000 to

Pooja International Pvt. Ltd, Panipokhari Tel: 4006605 | 4006606

39,49,000

VOLKSWAGEN

22,69,000

Cross Polo

1598 cc

35,45,000

37,39,000

Amarok

1968 cc

82,00,000 to 92,00,000

37,29,000 to

Passat A/T Loaded

1798 cc

86,45,000

Polo

1198 cc

26,45,000 to

Tiguan

99,00,000 to

32,95,000 to

29,39,000 to

45,99,000 1197cc

Ignis

28,89,000 to 35,19,000

Sipradi Trading Pvt Ltd, Teku Tel: 4250610 | 4250612

TATA Strome

Nexon Hexa Tata Bolt

Tata Tiago

Sumo Gold Zest Tigor

86

AUTOLIFE JULY 2018

2179cc Diesel 1198cc Petrol 1497cc Diesel 2179 cc 1193 cc (Petrol) 1248 cc (Diesel) 1199cc 19482956 cc Diesel 1193 cc Petrol 1248cc Diesel 1199cc

39,45,000

57,95,000 to 73,55,000

Touareg

1395 cc Petrol 1968cc Diesel 2967 cc

34,95,000 to 46,85,000

Vento

1598 cc

Ameo

1198cc

91,55,000 28,75,000 to

34,55,000 to

38,55,000 27,25,000 to 33,55,000

31,95,000 to 35,45,000

Advanced Automobiles Pvt. Ltd, 9851229996 , 9801027012, Thapathali, Kathmandu

RENAULT Kwid

49,55,000 29,95,000 to

1,55,45,000

44,45,000

35,25,000

24,95,000 to 31,55,000

1,28,00,000

Duster Lodgy Stepaway

799cc to 999cc 1498cc Petrol 1461cc Diesel 1461cc

19,89,700 to 24,11,663 37,78,306 to 58,62,558 39,95,000*

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Model

ACE MOTORCYCLE Ace British Classic Ace British Scrambler

Displacement

Price

Classic Wheels Export Import Pani Pokhari, Kathmandu Tel: 9801024639

397cc

Model

397cc

SR150

6,10,000

154.4 cc

45,00,000 to

1299 Panigale

1285 cc

959 Panigale

955 cc

35,00,000

Diavel

1198.4 cc

41,00,000 to

Hypermotard

937 cc

28,50,000 to 35,50,000

Hyperstrada

937 cc

30,50,000

Monster 1200

1198.4 cc

32,50,000 to

Monster 696

696 cc

20,00,000

53,00,000

48,00,000

D-Lifestyles Pani Pokhari, Kathmandu 01-4423131/132

APRILIA

Price

Turbo Motors Pvt Ltd Naxal,Tel: 4435720

DUCATI

5,60,000

Displacement

2,54,946 to 2,64,946

42,00,000

Hansraj Hulaschand & Co. Ltd Teku, Tel: 4267759 | 4261200

BAJAJ Discover 150

144.8 cc

2,04,900

Monster 796

803 cc

22,00,000

Discover 100 M

94.38 cc

1,56,900

Monster 821

821 cc

29,00,000

Discover 125

124.6 cc

1,78,9001,87,900

Multistrada

1198.4 cc

40,00,000 to

Platina 100 E/S

99.27 cc

1,54,900

Scrambler Sixty2

399 cc

16,50,000

46,50,000

Pulsar 150 DTSI

149.01 cc

2,40,900

Scrambler

803cc

19,50,000 to 23,50,000

Pulsar 180 DTSI

178.6 cc

2,52,900

Panigale R

1198cc

70,00,000

Pulsar 200 NS

199.5 cc

2,93,900

Xdiavel

1262 cc

44,00,000 to 50,00,000

Pulsar 220F

220 cc

2,91,900

Pulsar RS200

199.5cc

3,99,900

AS 200

199.5cc

2,86,900

AS150

149.5cc

2,51,900

Avenger 150 Street

150cc

2,60,900

Avenger 220 Street

220cc

2,98,900

Avenger 220 Cruise

220cc

3,09,900

Bajaj V 15

149.5cc

2,15,900

Pulsar 160NS

160cc

2,86,900

Dominar 400

373.3cc

4,69,900

Turbo Motors Pvt Ltd Naxal,Tel: 4435720

DUCATI

Nepal General Marketing Pvt Ltd Jyoti Bhawan, Kantipath Tel: 4225377

HERO ACHIEVER

149 cc

1,92,000

GLAMOUR

124.7 cc

1,75,000 to

HF DELUXE

97.2 cc

1,45,000

Hunk

149.2 cc

2,11,000 to

Karizma R

223 cc

2,60,500

Karizma Zmr

223 cc

3,21,500

Passion Pro Tr

97 cc

1,68,000

Pleasure

102 cc

1,57,000

Splendor Ismart

97 cc

1,57,500

Dash

111 cc

1,67,500 to 1,71,500

1,80,000

2,16,500

Scrambler Cafe Racer

803cc

25,00,000

Splendor Pro

97.2 cc

1,56,500

Desert Sled

803cc

25,00,000

Splendor Pro Classic

97.2 cc

1,57,500

Monster 797

803cc

21,00,000

Super Splendor

124.7 cc

1,59,500

Multistrada 950

937cc

29,50,000

X-Treme

149.2 cc

2,19,500 to

SuperSport

937 cc

29,50,000

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NEW BIKE BUYER’S GUIDE

Disclaimer: All prices are subject to change without prior notice. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

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2,30,000

AUTOLIFE JULY 2018 87

NEW BIKE BUYER’S GUIDE

Updated July 2018 Disclaimer: All prices are subject to change without prior notice. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Model

Displacement

Price

Syakar Trading Company Pvt. Ltd, Kantipath, Tel: 4253522 | 4163501 | 4256199

HONDA

Model

Displacement

Price

Hansraj Hulaschand & Co. Ltd Naxal, Tel: 4415462

KTM

ACTIVA

109 cc

1,59,900

200 DUKE

200 cc

4,64,900

AVIATOR

109 cc

1,90,900

390 DUKE

373.2 cc

7,29,900

CB SHINE

124.7 cc

1,94,900 to

RC 200

199 cc

5,49,900

RC 390

373 cc

7,19,900

250 DUKE

248.8 cc

5,54,900

2,17,900

CB UNICORN

149.1 cc

2,49,900

RUNNER MOTORCYCLES CBR 250R

249 cc

5,29,900 to

Raman Motors Pvt. Ltd. Dhobighat, Kathmandu 01-5533054, 5538414

AD 80 Deluxe

80cc

1,44,999

5,99,000 (ABS) CRF 250L

250 cc

9,90,000 to 12,75,000

Cheeta

100cc

1,49,000

DREAM YUGA

109cc

1,64,900

Kite+

110cc

1,69,999

DIO

109cc

1,80,900

Knight Rider

150cc

2,14,999

CB Hornet 160R

162.71cc

2,65,900 to 2,89,900

Royal Plus

110cc

1,64,999

XR125L

124.7cc

3,90,000

Bullet 125

125cc

1,69,999

CB Unicorn 160

163cc

2,49,900

Bike RT

80cc

1,28,999

Activa-i

110 cc

1,59,900

Activa 125

125 cc

1,98,900 to 2,09,900

CB Shine SP

125 cc

2,17,900

CB 500F

500 cc

13,99,000

CRF 250M

250 cc

9,90,000

MSX

125 cc

5,99,000

XR 150L

150 cc

4,80,000

Navi

109.19cc

1,54,900

CBR 650 F

648.72

19,99,000

CB190R

184cc

5,99,000 to 6,14,000

KTM International Trading Pvt. Ltd. Naxal, Kathmandu 01-4411439

BENELLI

88

TRK 502

499.6cc

12,00,000

TNT300

300cc

7,00,000

TNT600i

600cc

16,50,000

302 R

300cc

7,50,000

TNT 135

134.7cc

2,50,000

AUTOLIFE JULY 2018

TNT 25

249 cc

4,50,000

Leoncino

499 cc

9,00,000

Anna International Pvt. Ltd. Naxal, Kathmandu

CFMOTO 250NK

CROSS-X

249.2 cc

4,99,000

Bikers Nepal Pvt. Ltd. Lazimpat, Kathmandu

Cross X 250 SE Motard

250cc

7,54,000

Cross X 250 SE Dirt

250cc

7,44,000

Cross X 250 R Dirt

250cc

5,84,000

TERRA MOTORS

Fair Auto Pvt. Ltd. Durbar Marg, Kathmandu

Eco

2000 Watt

1,38,000

Acuto

3000 Watt

2,35,000

ROYAL ENFIELD

Dugar Brothers & Sons Pvt. Ltd Balaju, Tel: 4362992

Classic 350

346 cc

4,49,000

Classic 500

499 cc

5,41,000

Classic Battle Green

499 cc

5,61,000

Classic Chrome

499 cc

5,81,000

Himalayan

411cc

5,61,000

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Model

Displacement

Price

Classic Desert Storm

499 cc

5,61,000

Continental Gt

535 cc

7,21,000

Electra

346 cc

Model

499 cc

7,21,000

Thunderbird 350

346 cc

5,77,000

Price

Import USA Pvt. Ltd. Gairidhara, Tel: 4004664

UM

3,70,000 to

Dsr 200

198.9 cc

Hypersport

199 cc

Renegade Commando

223 cc

3,75,000

Renegade Duty

124 cc

2,40,000

Renegade Sport

137.8 cc

2,50,000 to

Nitrox LS

124.1cc

1,85,000

3,99,000

4,32,000

Thunderbird 500

3,66,999 to 3,85,999

VG Suzuki Tripureshwor, Tel: 4233281

SUZUKI

Displacement

ACCESS 125

124 cc

1,89,900

Power Max

124.6 cc

1,85,000

GIXXER

154.9 cc

2,46,900

Renegrade Sport

180cc

2,85,000

GS 150R

149.5 cc

2,21,900

HAYATE

113 cc

1,69,900

LET’S

112 cc

1,75,900

SLINGSHOT

124 cc

1,84,900

SWISH

124 cc

1,79,900

Suzuki Gixxer SF

154.9 cc

2,76,900 to

D-Lifestyles Pani Pokhari, Kathmandu 01-4423131/132

VESPA Aprilia SR 150

150ccc

Vespa VXL

125cc

2,95, 946

Vespa SXL

125cc

3,10,946

SXL 150

150cc

3,35,946

SCOMADI

154.9 cc

VXL 150

150cc

3,20,946

Elegante

150cc

3,59,946

SXL Matte Red

150cc

2,51,900 to 2,59,900

Avasha International Narayan Gopal Chowk, Kathmandu Mob:9801067999

TL125 General

124.6 cc

2,80,000

3,40,946

TL125 Chrome

124.6 cc

3,50,000

LX 125

125CC

2,49,946

Jagdamba Motors Pvt. Ltd. Teku, Tel: 4237057

TVS RTR 160

160 cc

2,35,900

JUPITER

109 cc

1,72,900

PHOENIX 125

125 cc

1,83,900

STAR CITY 110

109.7 cc

1,62,900

SCOOTY ZEST

110 cc

1,64,900

WEGO REFRESH

110 cc

1,73,900 to 1,75,900

RTR 180

180 cc

2,45,900

STAR SOPRT

100 cc

1,56,900

VICTOR

109.7 cc

1,67,900

XL 100

99.7 cc

1,12,900

RTR 200 4V

197,75CC

2,83,900

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2,54,900 to 2,64,900

2,89,900 Gixxer Dual Tone

NEW BIKE BUYER’S GUIDE

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Morang Auto Works Teku, Tel: 4261160 | 4268252

YAMAHA FZ FI V2.0

149 cc

2,64,400

FZ-16 FI V2

149 cc

2,56,900

FZ-S FI V2 SE

149 cc

2,69,400

RAY Z-R

113 cc

1,89,900 to 1,96,900

SZ-RR

149 cc

2,17,900 to 2,19,900

YZF R15 V1.5

150 cc

3,55,900

FASCINO

113 cc

1,94,900

SALUTO

125cc

1,88,900

FZ25

249cc

3,49,900

CROSSFIRE XZ250RR

Classic Wheels Export Import Pvt. Ltd. Pani Pokhari, Kathmandu Tel: 980-1024639 250 cc 6,10,000

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AUTOLIFE JULY 2018 89

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