Vol 2 Issue 5 by AutoLife (Nepal)

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April 2013 Vol 2 Issue 5 NRs. 100

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AUTOLIFE April 2013 1

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April 2013

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AUTOLIFE April 2013 3

www.fishtail-lodge.com Pokhara, Nepal

www.annapurna-hotel.com

Editorial budget runners

ll of us dream about ultimately getting ourselves a high end Ferrari, Mercedes Benz, BMW, Range Rover, etc. But sadly, the probability that most of us will never be able to afford one, are much higher than the chances of affording one someday down the line. Now that’s exactly why budget vehicles exist, to cater to the needs of most people for an affordable drive. A cheaper set of wheels is much easier on the pockets of most automobile buyers and hence cater to a mass set of buyers. If most of us will remember, the Maruti 800 was the first car that made it possible for most families to have a car parked outside their homes. Decades have passed and surprisingly, the Maruti 800, along with its sibling Alto, is still the budget buyer’s favourite. Not that it was really needed, but Maruti Suzuki has finally come up with a major upgrade to its people car. Phasing out the Suzuki Alto and highly aiming to replace its legacy, the all new Suzuki Alto 800 is finally here in Nepal. As this issue’s cover story, we drive it around Kathmandu, to test whether this car too is capable of starting its life at the top of the sales chart. We hope our complete review helps you in briefly making out how the new Suzuki Alto 800 fits the bill for our roads. Then, there is the new German underbone motorcycle in town - Sachs MadAss 125. The eccentric motorcycle has already created a cult following in many countries worldwide, and is expecting to replicate the same here in Nepal. We, for one, truly loved it and hope to see lots more of these extraordinary motorcycles scooting around town. However, if practicality is what you seek first, then it might not be your cup of tea. Other great deals in the two wheeler side include the Honda XR125L and the Bajaj Discover 100T. Since both of these have been only recently launched, read more about their special features in our ‘Launch Pad’ section. And contradicting our ‘Budget Runners’ theme, there’s more information on the Peugeot 308CC convertible, Peugeot 3008 crossover SUV and Mahindra XUV500, for people who are willing to spend some more on their choice of wheels. And if you still don’t see yourself purchasing a ride anytime soon, fret not. The much loved and popular Sajha Yatayat is coming back into service and should definitely make your daily commute much better with their technologically advanced bus service. If all works well and good as per their plan, it will definitely change the current face of public transportation system in the country. Of course, there’s something in store for the pedal heads too. We bring you a synopsis of the 2013 Yak Attack with stunning photographs of the race to boot and a complete detail about the successful completion of the Third National Downhill Championship. Other bits include a feature on Racemandu, Nepal Automobile Sports Association, Ford’s After Sales Service, RS Taichi Riding Gears, Geneva Auto Show and a crazy Track Day experience of one of our team members. Go ahead, flip through! And yeah, a Happy Nepali New Year to all our valued readers.

AUTOLIFE TEAM 10 AUTOLIFE

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VOL 2 ISSUE 5 APRIL 2013 SOFTROCK MEDIA PVT LTD PANIPOKHARI, KATHMANDU, NEPAL TEL: 977-01-4428504 REGD: 84553/068/069

Founder/Managing Editor Ajay Dhoj Thapa

Sub-Editor

Ayush Dhaubanjar

Editorial & Photography Ankit Shakya Niren Tuladhar Saurav Nepal

Contributors: Yonten Yonzon Sagar Thapa Sushanta Khanal Raneej Pradhan

Creative Head Ajay Dhoj Thapa

Designer

Niren Tuladhar

Executive Director Shraddha Rajbhandari

Business Development

Ankit Shakya Aditya Malla Ayusha Shrestha Hisi Shrestha

CTP & Process ScanPrint Pulchowk Tel: 01-5010801

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General Enquiries hello@autolife.com.np

Editorial Enquiries

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Ads and Marketing Enquiries marketing@autolife.com.np

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. www.autolife.com.np

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AUTOLIFE April 2013 11

Volume 2 Issue 5

CONTENTS

April 2013

REFINED ALTORNATIVE FEATURES 22

RACEMANDU

36 NATIONAL DOWNHILL CHAMPIONSHIP 12 AUTOLIFE

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launchpad Peugeot 308CC & 3008, Honda XR125L, Mahindra XUV500, Bajaj Discover 100T

event watch

events

Yak Attack 2013

test drive

test ride

events

Racemandu

promotes

buying guide

5th Enfield Poker Run

National Downhill Championship

Suzuki Alto 800

Sachs Madass 125

NASA

everything about bikes and cars in Nepal

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Volume 2 Issue 5

CONTENTS

April 2013

56 BADASS MADASS FEATURES

SAJHA YATAYAT RELOADED

auto show

the crazy track day

sajha yatayat reloaded

after sales

Geneva Motor Show

ford

INTERACTIVE 16 readersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; submitted photos

RACING UP IN THE MOUNTAINS 14 AUTOLIFE

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gears and accessories

quiz

RS Taichi riding gears

play the quiz and win qfx tickets

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AUTOLIFE April 2013 15

AUTOLIFE

readersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; photos

SEND YOUR PHOTOS AT hello@autolife.com.np

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AUTOLIFE April 2013 17

LOCAL NEWS

HONDA MULTIPLY YOUR HAPPINESS OFFER

Syakar Trading Company, the sole distributors for Honda Motorcycle and scooters here in Nepal, has announced their Nepali New Year scheme to benefit its customers. The scheme is basically targeted for the auspicious occasion of the Nepali New Year 2070. The exciting

feature about this offer is that the customers can multiply their happiness with the help of a scratch card. Each Honda motorcycle and scooter buyer is handed a unique scratch card where they can find numbers from 2-25, multiply the obtained number with the year 2070 customers and win cash prizes up to 51,750/-. Furthermore, 7 lucky customers will be getting a separate cash prize of 70,000/- on the purchase. This scheme shall be available for a limited time only and within Nepal.

2013 WORLD CAR OF THE YEAR

At a press conference hosted by the New York International Auto Show and Bridgestone Corporation, the Volkswagen Golf was declared the 2013 World Car of the Year. This is the second consecutive year that Volkswagen has won the prestigious World Car of the Year title and the

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fourth time since 2009. The Volkswagen Up! won in 2012, the Volkswagen Polo in 2010, and the Volkswagen Golf VI in 2009. The Volkswagen Golf was chosen from an initial entry list of forty-two new vehicles from all over the world that included the Mercedes-Benz A-Class, the Porsche Boxster/Cayman and the combined entry of Scion FR-S/Subaru BRZ/Toyota 86/GT 86 as the finalists. In Nepal, Pooja International Nepal is the authorized importer and distributor of Volkswagen passenger car. The company has been selling the Golf hatchback since 2010 in Nepal.

HYUNDAI’S NEW YEAR OFFER

Laxmi InterContinental the authorized sole distributor for Hyundai Vehicles for Nepal has launched its new scheme “Hyundai Naya Barsa 2070 Gazzzjab Ko Offer” to mark the Nepali New Year 2070. In the offer, the consumers will be entitled to get a cash discount plus special New Year Bonus. A New Year Bonus minimum of Rs. 20,000 and up to Rs. 70,000 will be given to consumers through scratch coupon. During the scheme, the consumers can also exchange their old vehicles of any brand and make with brand new Hyundai vehicles. Hyundai Motor Company is among the 5 largest automobile manufacturers in the world and manufactures superior quality vehicles those are trusted by millions.

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AUTOLIFE

EVENT WATCH

Giving continuity to their yearly tradition, Sacred Summits is yet again organizing the 5th edition of the Enfield Poker Run from the 13th April till 15th April, 2013. The Enfield Rendezvous & Poker Run is a non-competitive annual motorcycle riding event aimed at bringing together Royal Enfield and other classic vintage motorcycle riders for a ride through the Nepali countryside. Over the years, it has gained much popularity and has become a ‘must attend’ event for Enfielders to come together once a year to swap bike riding stories and share the road with fellow locals and international riders. This year the ride will kick off from Ghambhesi Thakali Kitchen, Basundhara where the first card for the poker hand will be dealt after a briefing and breakfast. The second card will be dealt at Naubise and the third at Mugling where everyone will have lunch. Once the group reaches Akala Highway Restaurant, the 4th card will be given out. The first day will end with everyone regrouping at Hotel Landmark, Pokhara where prizes will be distributed followed by a New Year’s Eve program and Dinner. A charity ride to Pame will take place in the second day after which the Best Enfield Award will be presented by the judging panel. The rest of the day will be free for other activities. Finally, riders will then return to Kathmandu the next day after breakfast. The participation fee to partake in this event is Rs.4800. CONTACT: 4426695 | 9803025108

While in

NEPAL All You

NEED is AND MUCH MORE!!

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M a n d a l a S t r e et , T h a m e l , Ka t h m a n d u, N e p a l www.autolife.com.np Tel: +977 1 4701422, info@nepalsutra.com, www.nepalsutra.com

April 2013

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launch pad

BAJAJ DISCOVER 100T HH Bajaj, the sole authorized distributors of Bajaj Motorcycles have launched the all-new ‘Bajaj Discover 100T’ in the Nepalese market. The new Discover looks to revolutionize the 100 cc segment with its ultimate combination of style, features and technology. The Discover 100T (Tourer) is the world’s first 100 cc commuter motorcycle with a four-valve DTS-i engine. The 4-stroke, 4-valve 100cc engine produces 10.2 bhp of power at 9000 RPM and 9.2 Nm of torque at 6500 RPM, which is 30% extra than any other 100cc currently available motorcycles. It is further mated to a 5-speed gearbox. According to the company, the Discover

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100T will deliver a fuel efficiency of 87kmpl and will hit a top speed of 100kmph. The bike comes packed with a long thick comfortable seat, semidouble cradle strong chassis and gasfilled Nitrox suspension for smooth rides. Styling wise, the bike looks similar to the Discover 125ST.The muscular bike tank is combined with pleasing two tone graphics, premium aluminium foot peg and a unique 10-spoke alloy wheel. Similarly, the bike gets a 10 litre fuel tank, Digital CDI ignition system, auto choke for easy starting in allweather conditions and flicker free DC headlamp for better road visibility at night. It features both electric and kick start. The suspension is telescopic and

there are drum brakes on both the ends. The Discover 100T is currently priced at Rs 155,900.The motorcycle will be available in four colour options — flame red, brilliant blue, black red and black blue. The bike will provide stiff competition to other 100 cc’s commuter bikes like Honda CB Twister, Honda Dream Yuga, TVS Star City and Hero Splendor+ to name a few.

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launch pad

HONDA XR 125L Syakar Trading Company has launched Honda XR125L. Built on a rugged, semidouble-cradle steel tube frame, theXR125L offers optimal strength, rigidity and lightweight for quick, assured handling over all kinds of road conditions. The all-new XR125L was specially designed to give young street riders a heady taste of the great outdoors while looking as super-smart on the street as it does on the trails. True to the XR125L’s aggressive dirt bike look, attention quickly focuses on its sharply styled tank-side shrouds, which project the dynamic off-road look of Honda’s most popular race-winning motocross machines while directing a cooling flow of air to its rugged single cylinder engine. Two-piece side covers feature a number plate design in keeping with established off-road racer tradition, while the large front fender bears a strong resemblance to the bright polypropylene unit mounted on Honda’s popular new CRF450R 4-stroke motocross champion. The XR125L is powered by a rugged and reliable air-cooled 4-stroke OHV 125cc engine that provides both strong performance and money-saving fuel economy. Powered with an

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11.4bhp single-cylinder engine, it is tuned for low-to-midrange performance. The 12-litre fuel tank allied to the XR125L’s fuel economy offers real long range riding. The ruggedly constructed chassis of the XR125L, features long-travel suspension systems for confident control on road and off, not to mention the fact that it will comfortably allow ease of reach to the ground for young riders of all sizes. A comfortable long seat also reduces rider fatigue and has sufficient space for a passenger. Braking duties for the XR 125L’s lightweight wirespoked wheels are handled by a wide, 240mm front disk brake stopped by a lightweight and responsive dual-piston calliper, and a reliable standard 110mm leading/trailing shoe rear drum brake. Tyres are rugged, wide-bodied dual-purpose treads designed to provide an easy, comfortable ride on the street and confident control when straying off the beaten path. Syakar has announced that the bike will be available throughout the nation through Syakar dealership networks and inside Kathmandu it will be sold exclusively from Honda Wing World Showroom at Teku, Budhabari and Bajra Auto Trading, Wing World Dealer at Boudha. The bike has been priced at Nrs. 3,50,000/-.

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launch pad

MAHINDRA XUV500 Agni Incorporated Pvt. Ltd. Has finally launched the much anticipated Mahindra XUV500 in Nepal. Designed and developed in-house by Mahindra, the XUV500 is Mahindra’s first global SUV platform, with significant inputs in styling and development from customers across the globe. Replete with cheetah-inspired styling, refinement like never before, enhanced technology and safety features along with luxurious interiors, the XUV500 makes an apt choice for sedan and SUV buyers. This award winning SUV is powered by a state-of-the-art 2.2 litre mHawk diesel engine which delivers a power-packed 140 bhp with 330 Nm torque. The 2.2 litre engine is mated to a 6-speed transmission and the 5th generation Variable Geometry Turbocharger can take the XUV500 from 0-60 kmph in a mere 5.4 seconds. Despite all this unadulterated power, the XUV500 claims to give up to 15.1 kms per litre (ARAI-certified). The highest W8 AWD variant offers All Wheel Drive system with Interactive Torque Management and supports an array of technological features such as 6 inch touch screen Infotainment System with DVD, CD, MP3, FM, USB, iPod connectivity, Driver Information System, Micro Hybrid technology, Fully Automatic Temperature Control with dual HVAC, Static-bending projector headlamps with LED parking lights, Voice Commands, Cruise & Audio Controls on steering wheel, Smart Rain & Light sensors,

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Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, Intellipark Reverse Parking Assist System, Power-foldable and adjustable ORVMs, etc. On the safety front, it gets Electronic Stability Program with Rollover Mitigation, 6 Airbags (front, side and curtain), ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Hill Hold Control & Hill Descent Control. For driver and passenger comfort and convenience, the XUV500 comes with leather seats, flat-folding 2nd and 3rd row seats, 8-way height-adjustable driver’s seat including full lumbar support, lounge-like mood lighting and tilt and telescopic steering. The new Mahindra XUV500 claims to provide customers a truly complete driving experience. A monocoque construct found only in the most modern SUVs around the world, is the very essence of the XUV500’s uncompromised driving dynamics. The result is an excellent power to weight ratio, unmatched handling and undiluted driving pleasure. Bold and glorious lines that trace the world’s most agile animal in action, the cheetah, contribute to the elegant styling and visual impact. Furthermore, the chiselled, aerodynamic body of the Mahindra XUV500 with racing-inspired twin exhausts, integrated bumpers and stylish, light-weight alloy wheels all add to the SUV’s stature, making the XUV500 a striking presence on road. The XUV500 is available in 3 exciting variants

and 7 attractive shades to suit a variety of tastes. These include Satin White, Tuscan Red, Opulent Purple, Neptune Blue, Moondust Silver, Volcano Black and Dolphin Grey. The XUV500 price range starts at NRs. 53 Lakhs for the W6 2WD model, NRs. 58.50 Lakhs for the W8 2WD model and NRs. 61.50 Lakhs for the W8 All Wheel Drive (AWD) model. The XUV500 is now open for bookings.

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launch pad

PEUGEOT

NOW IN NEPAL

The renowned French car manufacturer PEUGEOT AUTOMOBILES has now officially landed in Nepal with their showroom at Rara Marg, Dhumbarahi, Kathmandu. Kishore Gears Pvt. Ltd, who is also the sole dealer for Land Rover vehicles in Nepal, has been around in the auto industry for quite a

while. They are now the official authorized distributor of Peugeot vehicles in Nepal. The company has launched four different models of the Peugeot vehicles – 308CC, 308 Hatch back, 3008 Cross Over and 408 Sedan in the Nepalese market. Here we highlight the two of their first launches in the market.

PEUGEOT 3008 The Peugeot 3008 is a compact and spacious crossover. It is positioned at the crossroads between several existing vehicles - SUV, MPV and Hatchback. The car derives its strengths from the blend of various motoring concepts while at the same adopting a number of new and original technologies such as Dynamic Roll Control, Grip Control, etc. Thanks to Peugeot’s expertise and use of new technology, the Peugeot 3008 offers road holding qualities worthy of the best saloon cars; no mean feat for a ‘spacious and tall’ vehicle. Every effort has been made to ensure class leading levels of road holding on all versions of the Peugeot 3008, without in any way sacrificing passenger comfort. The architecture of the Peugeot 3008 successfully combines a single-compartment body shape with a forward-positioned front windscreen with elements borrowed from the world of the SUV, such as its lower tailgate, plunging side windows and raised driving position. At the front, the Peugeot styling genes have evolved to adapt to the car’s generous

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size, while at the rear the wide sculpted flanks help to visually attach the car to the road. Inside its spacious interior, the driver occupies an ergonomic and particularly luxurious driving position that calls to mind the world of the luxury coupé and has some similarity to the cockpit of an aircraft. Passengers can enjoy a generous and extremely comfortable passenger compartment (in terms of design, seats, acoustics, etc), where each occupant will feel naturally at ease. For even greater interior brightness and visibility, they can benefit from a large glass roof. The line-up of motors includes a 250Nm 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine and 340Nm 2.0-litre ‘HDi’ turbo diesel, both tied to a six-speed automatic transmission. The Peugeot 3008 is determined to become the new benchmark in the world of spacious, compact vehicles in terms of driving pleasure and active safety.

The car is currently available on order and has been priced at Nrs.85 Lakhs. www.autolife.com.np

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launch pad

PEUGEOT 308CC The Peugeot 308CC is the show stealer, as it is the only commercially available convertible in the market at the moment. As the pioneer of folding roof cars from the 1930s, Peugeot has never lost its desire to give motorists the freedom to drive in either the coupé or cabriolet configuration through the magic of a rigid roof that fold into the boot. The Peugeot 308CC stands out by the superb fluidity of its style, both in its coupé and cabriolet configurations. From the badge to the end of the roof, from the door to the lower rear panel, the graphic style of its profile is emphasised by light reflecting contours. Chrome detailing further enhances this elegant profile. Low slung and firmly planted on its wheels, the Peugeot 308 CC has a prominent shape and spectacular LED rear lights that use ‘red light curtain’ technology to create a unique signature for the car by day and by night. The sculpted front seats with their integral head restraints have inbuilt air vents which diffuse warm air around the occupants neck. The rear seats mirror this distinctive design and offer rear accommodation surprisingly generous for a cabriolet. The fully automatic retractable roof can be magically transformed in 20 seconds and the operation can be viewed on the colour display, turning the car into

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a dynamic coupé or an elegant cabriolet according to the mood of its occupants. Two dynamic and flexible engines power the Peugeot 308 CC through a six speed manual gearbox (unless an automatic gearbox is preferred). They are the 1.6 litre THP 150 bhp turbocharged direct injection petrol engine and the 2.0 litre HDi FAP Euro 5 140 bhp diesel engine; the latter being also particularly environmentally-friendly. Combined with the wide tracks, lowered ride height and high-performance suspension specially developed for this body style, gives the Peugeot 308 CC excellent potential, together with a real sense of security for the driver. The large 302 x 26 mm disc brakes are an equal match to the performance of the engines. This is combined with an ESP system that watches over the occupants at all times. The structure is robust and designed to withstand and dissipate front and side impact energy. It is also supplemented by innovative and intelligent means of restraint that the cabriolet body shape dictates. They include a chest/pelvis side air bag built into

the front seats and exclusively a side head air bag which is a world first, guaranteeing effective protection of all parts of the body regardless of seat position. The car is currently available on order in a variety of colours and has been priced at Nrs.99 Lakhs.

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AUTOLIFE

AUTO SHOWS: INTERNATIONAL

GENEVA MOTOR SHOW

Photos: Raneej Pradhan & www.autoblog.com

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The Geneva Motor Show (Salon International de l’Auto) is an annual auto show held in the Swiss city of Geneva. The show is hosted at the Geneva PalExpo and is organised by the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d’Automobil. Since Switzerland lacks an auto industry of its own, the show is regarded as a level playing field for the world’s automakers and is considered an important international auto show. This year’s show attracted a wide range of production and concept cars from the entire spectrum of companies in the business. Every exotic and mainstream automaker vied for attention as the 83rd edition of the show opened its doors to the public from March 7-17, 2013. From chic city cars to stylish and powerful sports cars, the new models also represented the latest technologies for the most ecological and economic motoring.

Though we yet again missed the show ourselves, this time we had one of our enthusiastic readers Raneej Pradhan personally visit the show in Geneva. So for your viewing pleasure, here is a pictorial compilation of the exotics witnessed by him first-hand.

1. 2013 Alfa Romeo 4C 2. 2013 Gumpert Apollo 3. 2014 Porsche 911 GT3 4. 2014 Rolls Royce Wraith 5. Aston Martin Vanquish Centenary 6. Bentley Flying Spur 7. Carlsson SLK 340 Judd 8. Wiesmann GT MF4-CS 9. Ferrari LaFerrari 10. Hamann Mystere 11. Toyota FT-86 Open Concept

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12. Kia Provo Concept 13. Koenigsegg Agera S Hundra 14. KTM X-Bow GT 15. Sbarro React EV 16. ItalDesign Guigiaro Parcour 17. McLaren F1 LM 18. Mitsubishi Concept GR-HEV 19. Pininfarina Sergio Concept 20. Lamborghini Veneno 21. Spania GTA Spano 22. Touring Superleggara Disco Volante

Raneej Pradhan

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AUTOLIFE

FEATURES

THE CRAZY TRACK DAY WORDS: AYUSH DHAUBANJAR This experience dates back to June of 2009. Morang Auto Works (MAW), the authorized distributor of Yamaha bikes in Nepal were sending four Nepalese participants to compete in the Yamaha R15 One Make Championship at the Madras Motor Sports Club Racing Circuit in Chennai. Professional Supersports Racer Mrs. Alisha Abdullah and her seven times national racing champion father Mr. Riyasat Ali Abdullah were flown in from India for selecting the four deserving candidates. The selection took place in the freshly laid road of an under construction housing colony and riders were chosen on the basis of their skilled judgement on various aspects like cornering techniques, riding strategy, etc. Luckily, I was one of the four riders who made it through the gruelling selection rounds. The championship was scheduled for the 28th of June and we left for Chennai on the 26th of June on an all expense paid trip from Yamaha, for our first ever racing track day opportunity. Being an avid motorcycling enthusiast, I had always wished to experience the thrill of racing on a race track. Off course, I was never your traditional street racer who would crazily zoom past every other vehicle on the road. However the prospect of an open stretch of tarmac built exclusively for competitive racing and void of public road hazards to boot had me raring to go. We arrived at Chennai on the midnight of 26th June. A practice run on the track was scheduled for the next day. But unfortunately, with the professional level practice run taking place on the 27th of June and rain pouring in later, our practice was cancelled. Anyways, seeing the professional racers zip past doing their high speed runs, had all of us energized and crazily excited to put our riding skills to test and see how each of us would fare with the throttle wide open.

Yamaha R15 bikes and after some briefing by the veteran Mr. Riyasat Abdullah, we were instructed to follow a professional Yamaha rider who would show us the appropriate racing line through the track. There I was, revving the bike on the pit lane with the rush of adrenaline gushing within, for my first ever track day run. I pulled in the clutch lever, shifted to gear, disengaged the clutch and set off to burn some rubber in the unbelievably butter smooth and inspirational tarmac. For around two laps we followed the Yamaha rider around the track, familiarizing ourselves with both the bike and the track. It was really an exhilarating experience diving into the hairpin bends with hardly any fear of unexpected surprises like pot holes, slippery components, animals, etc, unlike in everyday road riding. I even tried scraping the virgin knee guards in the corners for the first-hand experience of a blissful knee-down, but every try in vain. Perhaps that called for some practice. The Yamaha rider then signalled us to overtake him and ride at our own pace. After getting a proper feel of the track, I then decided to push myself to the extreme and test my potential. But less did I expect this very decision to be my biggest ever mistake. I overtook my friends and started speeding like there was no tomorrow. For two laps, I raced with all the skills and experiences I had garnered over all the years of my motorcycling.

Believe me, I had never ridden any faster before and probably never will. I was beginning to imagine myself as some Moto GP racer and had my mind completely focused on racing. I got so engrossed with the thrill of ripping through the track and making fast corner entries and exits, that I forgot it was a practice run. That was until this tight right hander came... I carried too much speed into the corner and immediately decelerated to avoid the gravel traps on the side lane. The next few seconds was the least I had expected. The bike did not take well to the rapid deceleration and I was literally thrown over the bike in a high slide at a speed of around 90kmph. That very moment of being airborne already had me predicting a worst case scenario for myself. I landed head first on the ground, tumbled three to four times and skid across the track before coming to a complete stop in the gravel trap. I was still alive! I immediately got up and shockingly had not broken anything on my body. The riding jacket was tattered and I could feel some major bruises on my abdomen and arms. But as I put the smashed bike up and got on it to ride it back to the pit, I felt a sudden muscular strain on the neck and chest. It was a painful experience and the race had not even begun. So after the emergency medical care, I decided to still register myself for the championship and Yamaha India co-

Race day finally came by on the 28th of June. We reached the track early in the morning and luckily the Indian Yamaha officials decided to grant us a half an hour practice run before the event. We were allotted our respective

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operatively offered another bike for me to take part in the competition. But now, the fear factor had caved in and I had blown away every bit of confidence that I had in me. After few hours of rest, the race event commenced. There was another practice run for three laps and I took it real slow this time, desperately trying to get over the crash trauma and increase my corner speeds. Soon enough my turn for the first round came by and I had to be it in the top eight to make it to the semi finals. As I lined up on the track waiting for the green signal, I wasn’t really expecting to do well. It was a four lap round and by the end of the first lap I was in the fourth position. I knew I wasn’t riding my bloody best, but was now confident of at least ending in the top eight. But just as I made a corner entry in the second lap, the least I had expected happened. I was suddenly sliding across the track. Yes again! This time though it was another rider who hit my rear wheel on the right hander and led to both of us kissing the tarmac. Luckily, the other riders were trailing behind and we were saved from being run over. I quickly picked up my bike and continued to race. But the right foot peg had given up on the fall and the

“Believe me, I had never ridden any faster before and probably never will.” front brakes had gone kaput. So the chances of making it back to the top eight looked very bleak. As a result, I was eliminated and had to accept that I couldn’t be competitive enough. A few more bruises had developed on my body and the muscular sprain on my neck only got worse from the back to back impact. Well, I sure brought no trophy back home. But it was an experience of a lifetime and a huge learning incident for me as a rider. And in spite of my bitter experiences, I would still

recommend every other die hard motorcyclists to experience riding in a race track at least once in their lifetime. The fact is, though I nearly ended up losing my life, this ride still remains the most cherished adrenaline filled moment in my life. And would I want to go back and race on the track ever again? Definitely yes! Of course though now it will be more about a learning experience rather than competing. Once bitten, always twice shy…

MORE ABOUT THE MMSC RACING CIRCUIT The Irungattukottai Race Track or MMSC Racing Circuit was officially inaugurated in 1990. The track is 11 meters wide and has 10 major curves, apart from a number of minor ones. The main track has three straights, with the longest one being 250 meters. The circuit conforms to the two international bodies the Federation Internationale De Automobile and the Federation Internationale Du Motocyliste, who lay down the norms for racing and racing circuits. This circuit is the nearest and possibly the cheapest race track for any Nepalese racing enthusiasts to fulfil their desire of speeding through an international quality race track.

ESSENTIAL TIPS: •

TRACK STATS:

Full Track Length: 3.74 kms (12 curves/turns) Short Club Track Length: 2.1 kms (7 curves/ turns) Width: 11 metres (12 metres at start line) Direction: Clockwise First Race: 1990 Fully Resurfaced: 2007 Vehicles Allowed: Cars up to F3 and all bikes allowed.

CONTACT:

Madras Motor Sports Club Chandhok Centre - Ground Floor 244, Anna Salai, (Behind old Anand Theatre) Chennai - 600006 Tel: 0091-44-24990998 | 0911-44-28520023 Fax: 0091-44-24993984 Website: www.madrasmotorsports.in

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• •

•

Make sure that you ride with more of your common sense and focus on accumulating experience gradually. Respect your personal skill level and your machine’s potential. Never try overdoing it. Remember that there are vital things like the perfect racing line, body positioning, cornering techniques, crash survival techniques, veteran mentoring, etc which a rider cannot really expect to build up in a day. Do not fall into the misconception that street racing and track racing are the same sides to a coin. The rules of the game are totally different. A street racer might do very well on the straights, but when it comes to the corner it is likely he will mess it up or lose the pace. Be a sensible rider and make the most of your track day experience.

HOW TO BOOK A TRACK DAY: •

• • •

Contact MMSC for booking a slot in PAY & PRACTICE. For an approx. 4 hour session, non MMSC members are charged IRs.1000 for bikes and IRs.2000 for cars, as of August 1, 2012. However, a separate surcharge is applicable on weekends. Travel to Chennai by flight, train or road. Hire an insured bike or car of your desired make from a local vendor. Go RACE! AUTOLIFE April 2013 35

AUTOLIFE

EVENTS

3rd National Downhill Championship WORDS AND PHOTOS: ANKIT SHAKYA

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The recent growing popularity of cycling in the capital is undeniable. Gravity aided riding at break neck speeds is not for your average adrenaline junkie. But downhill racing has an attraction of its own and Nepal has its own set of thrill seekers raring to rip through a 45-degree decline. Similarly, on the 30th of March 2013, the beautiful landscape of Hattiban Resort hosted the 3rd National Downhill Championship as proposed by the Mountain Sports Federation of Nepal. The event was organized by Nepal Cycling Association and hosted by Lalitpur Cycling Association under the authorization of National Sports Council. And once again, it was Epic Events that managed the event with the support of Epic Mountain Bike and Chain.

with orange tapes outlining the track and a sizeable crowd was waiting for the race to commence. This year, the race track had also been extended to 2.2kms from the previous 1.4km stretch, which basically there was more dirt to rip through for the riders. Qualifying rounds began at 1:00pm and the racers were tearing up the track to achieve their best time. Marshalls were cautioning bystanders as racers came in at an interval of a minute each. This year, we had Suraj Bahadur Panday, affectionately known as Buntay Dai, representing Team AutoLife in the race. Unfortunately, his tyres completely ripped open during the qualifying run. We believe that the tyre gave out because it could not handle the utter awesomeness on the bike, but critics say a rock was to blame; to each his own theories.

Come D-day, the Hattiban hill was adorned

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recommenced and the qualified riders seemed much more intense. The riders who were flying through the jumps in the first round decided on not being airborne this time so as to save on time. Despite the lack of high flying antics, the second leg of the race was exhilarating to watch too as the riders stormed through the track faster. Despite having qualified for the second round along with 22 other racers, it looked like it just wasn’t our day for Buntay Dai. A nasty whiplash left our rider battered and bruised, and we had to suffice with 20th place. So when it came down to the finish line, Onbrej Barta from Czech Republic had the best time of 3:14:41, but it was Shajjan Rajbanshi who was crowned the National Champion with a time of 3:17:06. Shajjan Rajbanshi, Shyam Limbu and Shakar Yakhtumba came in third and fourth respectively. As if the event wasn’t exciting enough, there was more good news in store for the top riders. The top four Nepali riders of the 3rd National Downhill Championship will have an opportunity to participate in the 1st Asian Championship that is going to be held at Chengdu, China. We wish them all the best and congratulations to the National Champion of 2013!

“This year, we had Suraj Bahadur Panday representing Team AutoLife in the race. But unfortunately, his tyres completely ripped open during the qualifying run.”

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AUTOLIFE

EVENTS

STORY & PHOTOS COURTESY: www.NepalSutra.com

his highest cycle race in the world began from Kathmandu on March 2, 2013. The riders, dressed for the hot sun sure to hit later on the race, were feeling the morning chill, but they could just as well be shivering from the anticipation of what they would be facing over the next 12 days over 11 stages across 400km of varying terrains. The race took the 33 riders from Shivapuri to Besi Sahar, and then on the Annapurna Circuit, all the way to Pokhara, traversing the highest point of the race, the Thorung La Pass, on the 10th day of the race. Riders were of all skill levels and varying experiences. Some were devils on the downhill, while others overtook everyone else whenever an uphill section came around. Some were proud of their hike-a-bike (bikecarrying) skills whereas others were built for speed. Some, like the Aussies, were used to the heat of the early days from Shivapuri to Besi Sahar, whereas some of the Americans and Europeans were really looking forward to the colder sections. In short, nobody could really be prepared for everything they would be up against. Add to that the strikes that this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Yak Attack had to deal with, and everybodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s adjustment pains to a new

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country and new food, there was a whole lot of uncertainty to deal with. But that is what every participants of the Yak Attack had come for, to tackle all the challenges thrown their way with courage and grace. The race finally ended in Tatopani and by the end there were 5 riders down. Two had to pull out because of road accidents, and two because of snow blindness. One of the riders pulled out because of viral stomach problems. Just like is has been happening every year since the attack’s inception in 2003, this year too was no exception. Narayan Gopal Maharjan from Nepal won this year’s Yak Attack, at a record time of 21 hours 24 minutes 51 seconds. Second was Ajaya Pandit Chhetri, last year’s champion, with a timing of 22 hours 2 minutes 49 seconds, and third came the young smiling Aayman Tamang with a timing of 24 hours 53 minutes 14 seconds. Yak Attack was not just your any normal run of the mill race. It was a rare experience with a combination of skilled cyclists, amazing food, incredible people, hardcore trails and incredible views of the Himalayas. The seventh Yak Attack 2013 definitely did not disappoint, on any of the counts.

LAXMI MAGAR - THE FIRST AND ONLY NEPALESE FEMALE RIDER IN THE 2013 YAK ATTACK RACE When we heard that Laxmi Magar from Nuwakot District was the only Nepali female rider in the coveted Yak Attack 2013, we had to sit down with her and hear out her experiences in the race. Our respect truly goes out to this brave lady, who endured it all and successfully made it through every stages of the race. Here below is a brief narration of her experience at the Yak Attack 2013: “I started cycle racing in 2008 with a few seniors who were into sports cycling. Right away from the start, I was immediately hooked to this aspect of cycling and now it’s become an addiction.

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In this year’s Yak Attack, I started off on my Cube. But in the midst of the race, Buddhi Bahadur Tamang started having trouble with his wheel hub. So since he was doing so well in the race and race regulations allowed to do so, I decided to lend him my bike so that he could continue the race; fair enough as he stood 4th in the end. So to continue the race, I rode his Kona after fixing it. The Kona was comparatively lighter and during the Thorong La pass, it was actually easier for me to carry it across as I had been practicing on a heavier bike. Overall, I’m happy that I was able to at least complete the race, especially because at

one point I was not feeling well. Thankfully I was able to rest in Manang and recuperate soon. At higher altitudes I was making up for lost the time, but once again there was a setback when one of the riders encountered a serious accident and the race was halted. All the riders’ timings were reset according to earlier ratios. Nevertheless, I’m proud to have been able to represent Nepal as the first Nepali female rider in the history of the race. And I hope to see more local female riders participating next year.”

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AUTOLIFE

TEST DRIVE

REFINED ALTORNATIVE WORDS AND PHOTOS: AL REVIEW TEAM

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t’s not that the Maruti 800 wasn’t a great car. In fact, it put Maruti Suzuki where it formidably stands today. But due to its reliable, efficient and very reasonable ownership factors, the Maruti 800 also happened to become a popular choice among our Taxi drivers. So honestly, it no longer made for a delightful or proud ownership experience to private owners, with most of them having to bear the occasional brunt of mistakenly being flagged down as Taxis. Yes, there was the Alto which stood as a more premium offering to avoid this disappointment. But with the comparatively higher price tag for a car that has virtually remained unchanged for over a decade, it didn’t really make the best cut for most modern budget buyers. So a better and updated alternate at nearly the same reasonable pricing was definitely long overdue. Gladly, the wait now seems over as the design from the drawing board has finally taken shape. Meet the all new Suzuki Alto 800.

EXTERIORS

The Alto 800 looks all grown up with the totally new styling elements. The car gets petal shaped headlamps and a huge black grille along with a thin chrome moustache on the grille. A slightly forward stooping stance further adds to the aero dynamic and sporty feel. The split-grille is mounted

on a body coloured bumper which flows towards the sides to meet the prominent wheel fenders. Move to the tail-end and there are fresh new details like the tail lamps with clear lens and some sculpting on the boot that add some much needed spice. While most of the design aspects are new, the car is still instantly recognisable as an Alto. But the Alto 800 does look confused and

very awkward from certain angles. With the small sized wheels on the high ground clearance, there is a sense of something missing in this compact design with a high stance. But again, this design has a purpose as it’s moreover designed to efficiently ride over our kind of roads. Suzuki has also deliberately styled the Alto 800 on the conservative side to cater to the taste of the traditional budget-car buyers. So in terms of style and designing, though it stands

“While most of the design aspects are new, the car is still instantly recognisable as an Alto.”

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;The new Maruti Alto 800 has been packed with a number of modern-day mechanisms which ensure that passengers travel in completely safe and sound condition.â&#x20AC;? somewhere in the middle, the Alto 800 does look smarter and sportier than the outgoing Alto.

INTERIORS

Suzuki has completely redesigned the interiors. Our LXi variant test car came with grey interiors and a colour theme which spans over the interior fabrics and even reaches out to the door pads, imparting a fresh feel to the ride. But as one would expect of an economy car, some of the plastics feels cheap and does less to further boost a robust feel to the interior. In the cockpit area, there is a newly-designed modern dashboard with a stylish V-shaped panel mounted in the centre. While the speedometer is an analogue, the rest of the gauges like the fuel indicator, trip meters and odometer are digital. This V-shaped panel holds large centre AC vents and houses the full HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) air-conditioning unit below that comes paired with dial-type climate control system. Shockingly, being an entry level car, the Alto 800 does not come fitted with an audio system, centre locking and passenger-side rear view mirrors

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as standard equipment from the factory in India. But CG Automobiles, the authorized distributor, will thoughtfully be providing both features at no extra premium price charged to the customer. The steering is in a fixed position and despite not having tilt adjustment, feels nice to hold with the right placement. The Alto 800 gets power windows only for the front and it takes some time getting used to the odd position of the switches placed near the gear lever. The Altoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s slim seats are placed on the lower side and this offers enough headroom and legroom for its segment. But the rear bench has a short seat-back that doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t offer much head support for taller passengers. For storage purposes, the car has a glove box in its dashboard, bottle holder, can holder, coin holder, driver side storage space and a utility pocket on the front passenger side. It has a decent boot capacity of 177 Litres and it can be further increased by folding the rear seats which have a 60:40 split facility.

SAFETY

In terms of safety, the new Maruti Alto 800 has been packed with a number of modern-day mechanisms which ensure that passengers travel in completely safe and sound conditions with minimum risk of harm even in case of an accident. For that, fitments like driver airbag in the high-end version, radial tubeless tyres, collapsible steering column, engine immobilizer, high-mounted stop lamp, headlight levelling system and a set of front and rear intermittent wipers with washing function have been added to this new Maruti hatch.

PERFORMANCE

The new Alto 800 uses an upgraded F8D three cylinder motor which now produces 47.5 BHP of power at 6000 RPM and 69 Nm of torque at 3500 RPM from its 796 cc engine. Push down the accelerator pedal and the Alto 800

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AUTOLIFE April 2013 45

sets off easily. There is a good response from the engine even at low revs and upshifts are an easy affair with the light clutch and smooth gear shifting mechanism. The Alto 800 feels quite peppy and eager for a small capacity motor. Driving in the bumper-to-bumper is further aided by its ability to easily fit inside tight spaces and good all around visibility. The light weight makes the car easily agile, and the car takes well to broken roads as well, with its high ground clearance. The new Alto shares its suspension system with the older Alto and most of the bumps are easily suppressed, but bigger potholes tend to provoke the small carâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cabin stability. In terms of braking, the Alto 800 offers good feel at the pedal and the system feels adequate enough to handle panic stops. Maruti has equipped this car with solid discs at its front and drum brakes at the back.

VERDICT

With the new Alto, Suzuki looks serious about continuing the legacy set by the Maruti 800 and does justice as a refined alternative. It may not appeal to the enthusiast, but it has everything that the budget-car buyer looks for in a car - a fuel efficient engine, affordable price tag, moderate design, etc. The Alto 800 sure might be lacking in some bells and whistles, but it is a very good leap over the old Alto and indeed looks very much like the car that will probably start life at the top of the sales charts.

Out on the highway too, the motor feels eager. But the engine tends to get thrashy near the top end of the rev range. Similarly, with an enthusiastic driver on board, the car feels way out of its zone especially when trying to speed through the corners. The new Alto is not really a performer, but it clearly does what it was meant to do - effortlessly fulfil its duty as an efficient commuter. So where the Alto 800 ultimately shines the most, is in city limits. Moreover, Maruti cars are known for their high fuel efficiency and the Alto 800 should definitely be somewhere in the top of that list.

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SPECIFICATIONS ENGINE Type: In-Line 3 Cylinder 12V F8D Displacement: 796cc Fuel Type: Petrol Maximum Power: 48 Bhp @ 6000 rpm Maximum Torque: 69 Nm @ 3500 rpm Transmission: 5 Speed MT

Brakes Rear: Drum Dry Weight: 720 kg Fuel Tank: 35L

DIMENSIONS & WEIGHT Length: 3395 mm Width: 1490 mm Height: 1475 mm Wheelbase: 2360 mm Ground Clearance: 160mm Tyre Size: 145/80 R12 Suspension Front: MacPherson Struts Suspension Rear: Coil Spring Gas Filled Shock Absorbers Brakes Front: Solid Discs

(An introductory discount of Rs. 60000/- is available for a limited period on all variants.)

PRICE: Non A/C: Rs.13,49,000/LX: Rs.14,99,000/LXi: Rs.16,29,000/-

COLOR OPTIONS: Blazing Red, Frost Blue, Granite Grey, Silky Silver, Superior White, Torque Blue ALTERNATIVE CHOICES: Chery QQ3, Chevrolet Spark, Geely LC Panda,Hyundai EON, Perodua Viva 850, Tata Indica V2

“The new Alto is not really a performer, but it clearly does what it was meant to do effortlessly fulfil its duty as an efficient commuter.”

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AUTOLIFE April 2013 49

FEATURES

WORDS: SAURAV NEPAL PHOTOS: SUSHANTA KHANAL

AUTOLIFE

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bet all of us, the post 90’s generation, remember the famous song - “Sajha Bus Ma Jo Pani Chaddacha”, that was made popular by comedian cum singer Mr.Haribansha Acharya. Staying true to the interesting lyrics of the song, Sajha Yatayat was indeed once a backbone of the public transportation system in Kathmandu Valley. Sajha Yatayat, a cooperative public transportation organization, was established back in 1961/1962 with a mission to provide affordable and efficient public transportation to the citizens of Kathmandu Valley as well as inter-district travellers. The trademark blue-coloured Isuzu and Mitsubishi buses could be seen running in almost every part of the country. Even my childhood memory is still afresh with the vivid memories of shuttling around in these blue buses. But sadly, over the course of decades, just like most companies run by the government, the massive fleet of 183 buses gradually got reduced to only a few, thanks to the excessive bureaucratic and administrative turbulence within the organization. However, in 2003, the company saw some light when the authorities decided to revive it. Sajha Yatayat sprung back into action. Inter-district public transportation was started under the banner of Sajha Yatayat. In the Kathmandu Valley, 50 buses traversed the route around the Ring-Road. Similarly, 20 inter-district micro-buses also came into operation.

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In the same time, Sajha Yatayat started bus service from Kathmandu to Lhasa (China) and New Delhi (India) too. But, the company could not continue for a long time yet again and ultimately faced a closedown. Come 2011, the Board of Sajha Yatayat along with Nepal Government’s Ministry of Labour and Transport made a strategy to resurrect this dysfunctional public transportation organization once again. The main reason to revive this organization was to make public transport more affordable and accessible in the context of rapid population growth and urbanization. In the same year, the organization was revived to its genuine cooperative status, with the election of the majority of the Board Members (five out of seven) by election from the general body and two ex-officials from Nepal government’s Department of Road Transportation and Department of Cooperatives. Both long-term and short-term plans based on sustainability and profit-maximisation has already been put into place. The shortterm strategy of the newly revived Sajha Yatayat is to start public transportation service in Kathmandu Valley. This service is expected to start anytime soon because the company is only waiting for route approval from the Department of Transport Management (DOTM). This service will be available in two different routes of the capital. Out of the 50 ordered buses, 16 have already arrived in the capital. Similarly, its medium strategy AUTOLIFE April 2013 51

is to start inter-district services and expand urban services in other parts of Nepal. It will also start carrier services to neighbouring countries. The long-term strategy of Sajha Yatayat is ambitious as it seeks to provide multimodal (efficient diesel buses, electric trains and rails, tramways, ropeways, etc.) transportation services and operate from various regions/provinces of Nepal in the near future. No doubt, due to rapid and unplanned urbanization, the traffic system of Kathmandu Valley is slowly coming to a standstill. Urbanization has led to a rapid population increase in the capital city. The public means of transportation is not adequate enough to serve the everyday commuters and due to the lack of coordinated and efficient public transportation system, most commuters are switching to private means of transportation. Thus, if nothing is done to fill this void, vehicle ownerships in the twowheelers and four-wheelers segments are projected to grow massively in the coming years. So to relieve the traffic congestion in Kathmandu Valley, Sajha Yatayat has major challenges ahead of them. But if work is done genuinely and efficiently, then there really is no stopping them from providing an exemplary and affordable public transportation service for the urban as well as the inter-district travellers. We highly hope that Sajha Yatayat truly succeeds in standing out as a fine example of an efficient public transportation and wish the team all the best in their endeavours.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;To relieve the traffic congestion in Kathmandu Valley, Sajha Yatayat has a major challenge ahead of them.â&#x20AC;? www.autolife.com.np

Airport. In this phase, we will operate 16 buses. The buses will run from 5am till 11 pm. In the peak hour, we’ll operate more buses in around 15 minute’s time-frame. All the buses have 55 seats with extra supporting hand straps available for 15 standing passengers. AL: How prepared are these new buses to handle the daily hustle and bustle of the city in the long-run?

In the meantime, Team Autolife also caught up with Mr Padam Lal Maharjan, the Executive Officer of the newly-revived Sajha Yatayat to elaborate more on their upcoming services. Below are the excerpts: AL: Congratulations for reviving Sajha Yatayat once again. Tell us more about the service. Padam Lal Maharjan: In the first phase, we will provide public-bus service alongside two routes of the Kathmandu Valley. The first route will be from Lagankhel- Maharajgunj/ Gongabu and the second route will be from Kalanki-

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Padam Lal Maharjan: We have invested nearly NRs.60 million for the new buses and there have been other investments from various donor agencies too. These are all TATA buses and everyone is familiar with the reliability of this manufacturer. Furthermore, every single detail was taken care of while making the body. The body of the bus was made at Automobile Corporation of Goa Limited (AGCL) and higher emphasis has been put on quality, safety, productivity and reliability. AL: Since this is a public transport vehicle service, what kind of efforts are being made to make this service safe and secure for all? Padam Lal Maharjan: All buses are equipped with two CCTV cameras for the safety of the passengers and there’s a fire extinguisher at the back. There are two separate doors for entry and exit with an added emergency back-up door in case of emergencies. Likewise, there are seatbelts in every seat. Similarly, they are also fitted with flat LCD televisions which will display safety

messages and advertisements. AL: Apart from these features, what other areas have Sajha Yatayat focused on? Padam Lal Maharjan: All our staffs have been outsourced by a private recruitment agency through a very competitive and transparent enrolment procedure. Our mechanics have been specially trained at Sipradi Trading Private Limited, Kathmandu to ensure proper and regular maintenance of the entire fleet. A service station is based in Pulchowk and in the case of vehicle breakdowns, there is also an on the move Tata Mobil Pickup which will cater to emergency maintenances on the road. All the selected drives too have a minimum of five-years of driving experience. Similarly, the bus conductor will all be SLC graduates. Since we believe ourselves to be an equal opportunity provider, we have also hired female bus conductors. Likewise, all the employees of the bus service have been provided with personality training to behave properly with the passengers of the bus. AL: Finally, how different will the bus fares be from other various services in the country? Padam Lal Maharjan: Well, we are yet to fix the exact fare figures as we are still waiting for response from the Department of Transport Management. But, the citizens can be assured that it won’t be expensive at all. Our main focus is to keep the fares as low as possible.

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AUTOLIFE

TEST RIDE

BadAss MadAss

All

WORDS: AL REVIEW TEAM PHOTOS: SAURAV NEPAL

of us have heard of automotive designers regularly taking inspiration from various species of fishes, cats, birds, dragons, etc in the process of sketching out the exotic designs for various cars and bikes. But have you ever heard of a ‘wild donkey’ serving as an inspiration for a set of wheels? Now this is where the Sach MadAss 125 begs to differ. Sach is a German motorcycle manufacturer who has already been in the business for over a 100 years. One quick look at the MadAss 125cc and the source of inspiration doesn’t really seem to be a bad idea at all. It is being introduced in Nepal by Eco Auto, a new subsidiary of Saakha Group.

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“The MadAss incorporates a radical and truly revolutionary design unlike any other motorcycle.”

STYLING Is it a motorcycle, moped, scooter, electric bike or a cycle? These are the first questions that immediately strike your mind after a quick look at this naked to the core step-through or underbone motorcycle. There is no fuel tank, no centre stand, no storage compartments, no windshield and hardly any plastic body parts. It’s a motorcycle stripped to its purest form. The MadAss incorporates a radical and truly revolutionary design unlike any other motorcycle, which is a fresh change from the barrage of the usual motorcycles and scooters running rampantly in the market. Up front, a 55w vertically stacked twin projector beam headlights helps power the MadAss through the dark nights and a small digital instrumentation panel provides readouts for speed, tripmeter, odometer and time. The front suspension is a standard hydraulic fork set up and the 5.1 litre fuel tank in cleverly incorporated within the frame. The bike is held together by a unique steel tube frame that runs parallel with a banana swing arm and a preload adjustable rear mono shock is connected to the frame. The MadAss rides on a soft set of tubeless tires mounted on 16 inch alloy rims and a set of front and rear hydraulic discs does the stopping duties. Interestingly, the MadAss breathes out through a stainless steel exhaust that has been strategically placed under the seat. Overall, the build quality looks solid with a commendable fit and finish quality. The MadAss is definitely an attention grabber with its compact and wildly aggressive looks. Wherever you go, this alien looking motorcycle invites a lot of inquiries and glances.

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PERFORMANCE The engine on the MadAss is based on the popular horizontal one cylinder that was originally used in Honda mopeds and small motorcycles from the late 1960s. As you get aboard to ride the MadAss, most riders are bound to land in a confusion regarding finding the key slot, as there is one on the right of the headlight assembly for locking the handle and the ignition slot is unexpectedly on the left. Surprisingly, the saddle of the MadAss sits quite high and the rider feels perched high off the ground. The carburetted single-cylinder 125cc engine, capable of 8bhp of power at 8400rpm and 9Nm of torque at an early 5400rpm, fires up immediately and you easily get going once you slot the bike into gear and release the clutch. But the gear shifts were less than what you would call smooth and the engine does not feel like the best in terms of refinement. However, there is enough initial thrust to enjoy stoplight scenarios with similar capacity bikes. Over the three days of our extensive

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riding, the MadAss proved to be a pleasure to ride in the city and nearby outskirts of the valley as well. The bike was very flickable and the tall stance of the bike provided enough visibility to easily navigate through the sea of traffic, with other road users usually trying to make out what just zipped past. It was also quite a satisfying revelation when the MadAss could easily muster around 95kmph at full throttle in the fourth gear and felt composed when charging through the corners. With the presence of disc brakes both front and back, the brakes too were powerful enough to control the bike. We tried a bit of offroading as well and the MadAss proved to be a pleasure with the suspensions nicely soaking in the bumps. However there were some nose diving issues in the front suspension due to the softer set-up. And as far as ride comfort is concerned, the seat could have been better padded and wider for carrying the pillion rider more easily. On the practical side, the MadAss should return an efficient mileage of 40-45kmpl.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was quite a satisfying revelation when the MadAss could easily muster around 95kmph at full throttle in the fourth gear and felt composed when charging through the corners.â&#x20AC;?

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VERDICT The MadAss is definitely weird looking, but eccentric and eye catching at the same time. One thing that was obvious during our ride experience is that this barebones bike is definitely a head turner. Everywhere there was traffic, we could make out drivers and riders eye-balling us. Even pedestrians would literally turn their heads in amazement. It not just looks oddly great, but should be simple to maintain as well. Since its introduction in 2004, The MadAss has already managed to build a feverish following with MadAss Riders Club

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scattered around the globe, and there is a plethora of interesting aftermarket tune-up options like racy engine addons, sporty exhausts, luggage racks, cafĂŠ handlebars, etc available for the tuning enthusiast. So, is the Sachs MadAss 125 really worth the money? It certainly is a bit overpriced when compared to other similar capacity bikes which highly deliver much more on a practical note. But if you are the kind who would rather stick to the herd mentality and are more inclined towards the practical side of things, then you are probably

looking at the wrong product. The MadAss is rather a brilliant option to break away from the usual crowd, and considering that it costs nearly $2700 in the US markets, the current price tag of Nrs.1,85,000/- is definitely a steal. Even if reliability is your question, we really donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see why the MadAss will ever fail to deliver a first-rate service, as long as the company provides an excellent after sales service and you are doing the regular maintenance â&#x20AC;Ś

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“If you are the kind who would rather stick to the herd mentality and are more inclined towards the practical side of things, then you are probably looking at the wrong product.” SPECIFICATIONS ENGINE

Engine Type: 4-Stroke Cylinder Layout: Horizontal Single Cooling System: Air Cooled Displacement: 119.7cc Maximum Power: 8 Bhp @ 8400 RPM Maximum Torque: 9 Nm @ 5400 RPM Starting Method: Electric/Kick Fuel System: Carburettor Transmission: 4 Speed

FEATURES

Frame Type: Steel Tubes Wheelbase: 1235mm Seat Height: 835mm Ground Clearance: 130mm Front Suspension: 43mm Hydraulic Shock Rear Suspension: Coil Over Monoshock Front Tire: 90/80 - 16 Rear Tire: 120/70 - 16 Front Brake: 260mm Disc Rear Brake: 215mm Disc Dry Weight: 100 kg Fuel Tank: 5.1 Litres PRICE: Rs. 1,85,000/COLOR OPTIONS: Flat Black, Red, Yellow, Graphite, Silver CONTACT: Eco Auto 9851025061 | 5011500 www.autolife.com.np

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EVENTS

WORDS: AYUSH DHAUBANJAR PHOTOS: SAGAR THAPA & SIDDHARTHA MAN SHAKYA

The last time I tried my hands in competitive racing was back in 2009 at Chennai and the results were less than promising (Read more about it in page no 34). Sure enough quite a lot of time has passed since then and frankly my need for adrenalin too has reduced by a significant margin. I am no more the hot shot young biker willing to give it all and now care much less about bruising my biker ego. So when Nepal Automobile Sports Association (NASA) organized Nepal’s first ever open make-shift track racing competition ‘Racemandu’ at the Satdobato Complex on 2nd of March, 2013, I was initially a bit apprehensive about participating as a competitor. Nevertheless, I was quite anxious to see for myself how I would presently fare in a competitive race. There were two categories (100-198cc Class and 199-250cc Class) set by the organizers and the applicable registration charge for each rider was set at Rs.2000/-. I enrolled myself into the latter category with my KTM 200 Duke and eagerly anticipated the race day. The main sponsor for the event was Honda CBR250R and it was indeed a very much appreciable gesture from Syakar Trading Company for having kept the participation open to motorcycles of all makes. There were a couple of other partner sponsors too like Red Bull, Divine Wines, Hitco Nepal, Studds Helmets and Savsol Lubricants. The event was a part of NASA’s ongoing 1st Mountain Sports Festival and jointly managed by the Adventure Riders Group. The best part of the event was that

62 AUTOLIFE

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“Our turn in the 199-250cc class followed next and things sure looked crazy with bikers competing aggressively even in the practice laps.”

it officially affiliated with FIM (Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme), which is the global governing/sanctioning body of motorcycle racing. Participants were briefed a day earlier in the open air of the Satdobato Complex and with a glimpse of the track, things looked exciting. I was though probably expecting too much with a professional orientation that covered everything from the track details to some racing techniques. Anyways, we were asked to report by 9am the next day in order to avoid disqualification. But come race day, things were beginning to look less than promising. Though all the participants were present by 9am, the organizers were just getting started. The track was getting its final touches, sponsor banners and boards were being set up and the organizers were just beginning to sort out the riders’ numbers and stickers. Shouldn’t all this have been completed on the orientation day itself? An event starting an hour late is understandable to be in compliance with the usual ‘Nepali Time’. But how do you justify something that does not begin even three hours

www.autolife.com.np

past the set time? Finally after witnessing the organizers scrambling around to get things in place and some wanna-be posers crazily racing outside the complex area, the event began to fall in place after 12pm only. We were allotted our numbers and the competition began with the first round of practice for the 100198cc class participants, after National Sports Council Member Secretary Yubraj Lama and other officials waved the chequered flag to open the Racemandu event. Our turn in the 199-250cc class followed next and things sure looked crazy with bikers competing aggressively even in the practice laps. The event was turning out to be an exciting affair with the organizers having set up a

proper team for managing the track. There were enough volunteers and medical team scattered around the race track to monitor and prevent any untoward incident from happening. Of course, crashes were inevitable and a couple of riders kept sliding around the track in some of the rounds. But thankfully, there were no serious injuries to any rider. I however could not make it past the first round itself, as I just could not push myself to give my all against the more competitive and aggressive younger riders. And comically enough, it was worth looking at the ashamed faces of some of those poser street racers who got their piece of mind with a bruised biker ego, after discovering the difficult side to racing on a

AUTOLIFE April 2013 63

track layout. Nevertheless, the competition gathered heat with the best and capable bikers proceeding to the final stages. A short refreshment break for the riders was in order in between the event and there was also an exciting stunt show put up by the riders from KTM Street Riders and Ryderz of Bhaktapur. The stunt show was well coordinated and provided a relief from the monotony of the racing event. There were also other entertaining performances like the B-Boying and supposedly Cheer Leader dances. Finally, the competition was set for the decisive round in both the

category and things looked thrilling with the best racers having proceeded to the top. Ultimately, Nikhil Thakuri clinched the top title in the 100-199cc category on his Yamaha R15 with Swarna Khadka and Bipluv Shrestha too on the Yamaha R15 respectively close behind. The 199-250cc category final race was however more exciting as it seemed more competitive. Crowd favourite Bikram Thapa on his KTM 200 Duke was initially looking like the potential winner. But there was a sudden twist in the expected result when Samar Manandhar on the Honda CBR250R gained lead in the middle of the race after a competitive and aggressive overtake on a tight corner, leaving Bikram Thapa on the ground. Samar Manandhar then fittingly put an end to the Honda sponsored championship leading the race with his Honda CBR250R and Shane Moktan trailing close behind on his KTM 200 Duke followed by Sujit Tamrakar on the Honda CBR250R. The winners walked away with Rs.20000 each while the first and second runners up we awarded Rs.10000 and Rs.5000 respectively. All in all, it was a well executed event in spite of the initial technical glitches. Every supporter and organizer of this event deserves a huge round of applause for having pulled off such an exciting event, in spite of our country lacking in a proper race track. We hope that more initiatives likes these will further pave way for a prospective future in motorsports activities in Nepal. Events like these should definitely take place on a regular basis and be promoted through the media more professionally.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Crowd favourite Bikram Thapa on his KTM 200 Duke was initially looking like the potential winner. But there was a sudden twist in the expected result when...â&#x20AC;? www.autolife.com.np

www.autolife.com.np

AUTOLIFE April 2013 65

AUTOLIFE

RIDING GEARS

NXT046 GP EVO RACING GLOVE

RS TAICHI is the brainchild of popular Japanese factory racer Taichi Yoshimura. Taichiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vision was to collect all of his knowledge and experience from racing and transform this into RS TAICHI products. His experience as a racer is thus apparent in all RS TAICHI products. Riders with the same sense of values will appreciate the quality of the RS TAICHI brand. The company has been developing racing leather suits and apparel for over 30 years, with their head office based in Osaka, Japan. RS TAICHI gears and merchandise are now also available here in Nepal through Prapti International Pvt. Ltd. Here below is a selection of some of their riding gears and accessories. ** Please do note that there is a provision for a certain percent of discount in some of the items listed here.

- TPU knuckle protection with ventilation and wrist protection - TPU protection on fingers and floating system - Aramid knit on back of hand and KNOX Scaphoid Protection System on palm - Genuine Kangaroo leather on palm - Original wrist closure system secures the fitting around thumb

COLOR: WHITE | RED | BLUE | BLACK SIZE: S | M | L | XL | XXL | 3XL MRP: Rs.18500/-

** The listed MRPs are subject to change without notice.

RSB263 BELT POUCH

RSS005 WP BOA RIDING SHOE - Innovative BOA lacing system allows quick and easy adjustments - Synthetic leather construction - Genuine cow leather in toes area for durability - Polyurethane booty insert lining COLOR: SILVER/BLACK | BLACK SIZE: 24 to 28 cm MRP: Rs.17970/-

- Multi use pouch for minimal belongings - External pocket for quick storages - Belt loop, holster strap and shoulder strap equipped - Reflector piping for increased visibility in night time

COLOR: WHITE | MAGENTA | GREEN | BROWN | GRAY CAPACITY: 1.5L MRP: Rs.3350/-

RST391 ARMED MESH GLOVE - Nylon mesh outer shell construction for superior airflow. - Technofine Mesh used in back of the hand for extreme hygroscopic and quick dry. - RS TAICHI original molded carbon hard knuckle protection and EVA foam protection. - Velcro wrist closure for secure fit. - Navigation touch pointer on index finger tip COLOR: WHITE | RED | BLUE | SILVER | BLACK | BLACK/RED SIZE: S | M | L | XL | XXL | 3XL MRP: Rs.6990/-

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RSB302 BASIC TANK BAG

- Clear top for map and mesh pocket in top of expandable main compartment - EVA foam padding on bottom - D-ring for attaching on seat - Rain cover equipped and anti-slip fabric on bottom - Revolving magnet flap and Sucker available for plastic tank.

COLOR: BLACK SIZE: 25cm x 19cm x 10cm (18cm) CAPACITY: 4-6 Litres | MRP: Rs.9855/www.autolife.com.np

RSRR01 RAINBUSTER RAIN SUIT

RSB304 LARGE SEAT BAG

- External pocket on back side - Large size internal pocket and mesh pocket on top - Easy setting by buckle on seat harness and D-ring for additional setting harness - Anti-slip fabric on bottom - Shoulder strap and rain cover equipped

COLOR: BLACK SIZE: 32cm x 37cm (57cm) x 20cm CAPACITY: 20-30 Litres MRP: Rs.14550/-

- Additional leather layer on side of little finger for abrasion resistance - Adjuster on forearm for better fit and manoeuvrability - Waist adjuster for better fit - Durable reflective material offers superior performance in wet weather conditions - Seamless hip construction offers high durability and waterproofing COLOR: RED | NEON YELLOW | SILVER | BLACK SIZE: S | M | L | XL | XXL | 3XL | 4XL MRP: Rs.7350/-

RSB259 HIP BAG - Mesh panel on back for air flow and good fit - Soft touch fabric used for inner pocket of main compartment - EVA foam padded pocket for digital camera and others and stowable bottle holder - Reflector print for high visibility in night time - Shoulder strap for stability.

RSB306 SPORT SLIM SIDE BAG

COLOR: RED | GRAY | BLACK CAPACITY: 6 Litres MRP: 6795/-

8. RSB261 WAIST BAG

- EVA molded side panel and expandable main compartment - Dual zipper opening on main compartment and mesh internal pocket - Easy setting by Velcro and buckle - Tandem ride possible - Rain cover and 3M Scotchlite reflector equipped

COLOR: BLACK - Mesh padding on back for air flow SIZE: 44cm x 30cm x 14cm - Visor for full face helmet can be stowed in CAPACITY: 13-20 Litres x 2 main compartment - Lighting system available as option MRP: Rs.16860/ - Refector piping for increased visibility in night time - Detachable external pocket for position arrangement PLACE YOUR ORDERS AT: PRAPTI INTERNATIONAL PVT. LTD TEL: 5555216/9851137947 COLOR: BLACK WEBSITE: www.autodynamicsnepal.com CAPACITY: 5 Litres FOR MORE PRODUCTS: MRP: 7650/www.rs-taichi.com www.autolife.com.np

AUTOLIFE April 2013 67

QUIZ

AUTOLIFE

WIN QFX

cinemas tickets POWERED BY

www.qfxcinemas.com

1 WHAT IS THE ‘SACHS MADASS 125’? a. The Donkey from Winnie the Pooh b. Rajnikanth’s Dog c. An Underbone Motorcycle d. Shrek’s Best Friend 2 WHICH IS THE LATEST CONVERTIBLE CAR TO HAVE BEEN IN THE NEPALESE MARKET? a. Peugeot 308CC b. Toyota Fortuner c. Range Rover Evoque d. Suzuki Alto 3 WHO IS THE WINNER OF THE 2013 YAK ATTACK? a. Narayan Gopal Maharjan b. Valentino Rossi c. Chulbul Pandey d. Chuck Norris 4 WHO IS THE MAIN ORGANIZER OF THE 5TH ENFIELD POKER RUN? a. Fit Rite Shoes b. Hakku Kale c. The Blue Diamond Society d. Sacred Summits Pvt. Ltd 5 WHAT IS THE FULL FORM OF ‘NASA’ FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE OF AUTOLIFE? a. Nepal Automobile Sports Association b. Nepalese Are Superb Association c. National Aeronautics and Space Administration d. National Amateur Superstars Association HINT: ALL ANSWERS TO THIS QUIZ CAN BE EASILY FOUND SPREAD ACROSS THIS ISSUE ITSELF. EVEN GOOGLE WILL NOT FIND YOU SOME OF THE ANSWERS! SO UNLESS YOU HAVE RAJNIKANTH’S PERSONAL NUMBER OR YOU CLAIM YOURSELF AS CHUCK NORRIS, THERE’S NO ANY OTHER OPTION THAN TO MAKE SURE YOU READ THROUGH THE MAGAZINE BEFORE ATTEMPTING THIS QUIZ. BEST OF LUCK.

LAST MONTH’S WINNER Dikendra Kashajoo Samanta Acharya Bipana Shrestha 3 WINNERS will receive 2 TICKETS each from QFX CINEMAS SEND US YOUR ANSWERS AT hello@autolife.com.np 68 AUTOLIFE

April 2013

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AUTOLIFE April 2013 69

for Demo & Trade enquiry 977-1-5555021 info@epicmountainbike.com

mo c i p .e

.co e k i b tain

2013

www.facebook.com/epicmountainbike www.facebook.com/EsNestBikePark

KALI PROTECTIVES

AUTOLIFE

PROMOTES

NEPAL AUTOMOBILE SPORTS ASSOCIATION Info & Photo Courtesy: Sushil Tandukar

oday motorsports activities are widely popular in many parts of the world and various kinds of popular championships are organized on a regular basis. Similarly, there has been a growing craze for various kinds of motorsports activities among Nepalese people too and given the opportunity, they are more than eager to participate in these kinds of events. So keeping in mind this growing interest, Nepal Automobile Sports Association (NASA) is currently the only organization that has been solely organizing various local motorsports events in the country and ultimately aims to host internationally recognized competitions. Established with the slogan “Dedicated to Adventurous & Tourism Promoting Sports”, Nepal Automobile Sports Association (NASA) is dedicated in the development & management of Automobile related sports and promotion of internal as well as international tourism through their initiatives. NASA is currently the only automobile sports related organization registered with the National Sports Council in Nepal with the registration number 70. A more notable mention is their recent official affiliation with the FEDERATION INTERNATIONALE DEL’ AUTOMOBILE (FIA) and FEDERATION INTERNATIONALE DE MOTORCYCLISME (FIM) since January 2012. As the governing body

NASA KTM-Pokhara 70 AUTOLIFE April 2013 Rally Sincere Citizens

of motorsport worldwide and the representative of 60 million road and track users from over 230 member clubs in 130 countries worldwide, the FIA is the global motoring organization that represents the interests of motoring organisations and motor car users, while FIM is the global governing/sanctioning body of motorcycle racing. NASA has been organizing yearly motor sports events ever since they were established five years ago. Over the course of their existence they have already successfully organized nearly ten TSD competition rallies in both the two-wheeler and four-wheeler segment. Most recently, they also organized the first ever open track racing competition for motorcycles in Nepal - ‘Racemandu’. All this revelation could really be shocking to most of us motorsports enthusiasts who always had the impression that our government was not supportive towards motorsports activities in Nepal. Today, NASA is the only committed organization in the country that has been striving to introduce motor sports in the country as a form of adventure sport and as well as a basis for promotion of domestic tourism. They highly believe that motorsports can be a major agent for boosting the prospect of adventure tourism promotion in Nepal. Along with their initiatives for motorsports activities in Nepal, NASA also highly emphasizes on the importance of road safety. NASA has initiated a campaign named ‘Youth for Road Safety in Nepal’ with support from

FIA President Jean Todt handing over the Safety Helmet to NASA

FIA Foundation. Through this programme with their trained ‘Road Safety Motivators’, NASA aims to change the behaviour of the road users all over Nepal and thus reduce the fatalities and losses due to road accidents. Motor Sporting is going to be the most adventurous, competitive and popular game in the near decade and most countries in the world are making it a means of revenue generation through tourism promotion. Thus, NASA really deserves a standing ovation for pulling off motorsport events successfully and being the only organization in the country committed towards promoting automotive events in our country. It is indeed justifiable to develop motorsports in Nepal as an adventurous and tourism promoting game due to the geography, nature and enchanting beauty of Nepal.

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RALLY COMPETITION FORMAT OF NASA Since Nepal currently lacks the closed circuits for true competition racing, most of NASA’s events are organized on public roads. Now since road safety is a major issue when it comes to organizing Motorsports on public road, NASA’s competition rallies are based as per the international TSD (time-speed-distance) format. A TSD race format could be an unheard concept for most of us since we are only aware of track or off-road racing where thoroughly trained drivers in extreme machines take high risks for high stakes. TSD Rallying is very different from our usual concept of motor sports. Each vehicle is allowed a driver/rider and a navigator and given a set of written instructions before being sent off at intervals on public roads. Every team has to follow the course as well as maintain the given average speed. Sprinkled around the course are checkpoints, of which exact distances could be given beforehand or be a surprise. The teams are timed by a crew at the checkpoints and their time is compared against a perfect time which is computed from the assigned speeds and exact distances measured before the event. For each fraction of a minute early or late, the team is given penalty points. An end result score is generated based on how close the participant came to arriving perfectly on time as per the organizers requirement. Then the team with the lowest overall penalty wins. So it’s basically not based on the amount of muscle in your car, but on the sharpness of your minds and driving/ riding skill. A TSD rally is a competition of precision driving and not a race. The best part is that with almost no risk to the vehicle or human life one gets to drive the scenic roads and compete on the basis of precision driving and navigation.

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NASA AT A GLANCE: Registered Number: 70 in National Sports council Established Date: January 29, 2008 Registered Date: June 4, 2008 Number of District Associations: 17 Current President: Mr. Dasharath Risal

AFFILIATED CLUBS & GROUPS:

FIA President Jean Todt Visit to Nepal

NASA - Adventure Riders Group NASA - Bullet Club NASA - Corporate Riders Group NASA - Safe Riders Group NASA - Women Bikers Group

PAST MOTORSPORTS EVENTS ORGANIZED: Women Bikers Championship Rally: 3 Kathmandu-Jiri Bike Rally: 1 Kathmandu-Hetauda Motorcycle Rally: 1 Sincere Citizens Motor Rally: 4 Kathmandu-Taplejung Bullet Bike Tour: 1 Bikers On The Himalayas (KTM to Pokhara to Jomsom Rally): 1 Racemandu (Motorcycle Track Racing Event): 1

NASA Bullet Club NASA’s participation in FIM Asia General Assembly

CONTACT: E-Mail: info@nasanepal.org | nasanepal08@gmail.com Website: www.nasanepal.org Govinda Prasad Bhattarai (General Secretary): 00977- 9841289329 Meghraj Poudel (Advisor): 00977-9851048049 Sushil Tandukar (Secretary): 00977-9841476825 Participants of KTM-Pokhara Rally

AUTOLIFE April 2013 71

AUTOLIFE

AFTERSALES

When out on the hunt for a new vehicle, all it takes for most of us is the combination of an attractive showroom, excellent deal and exciting product to seal the deal. In between all this, we forget to evaluate the after sales

services of the company. And by the time one realizes that these services are disappointing, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s already too late. Since the life of a vehicle actually begins post purchase, it is the efficiency of after sales services which further

justify the satisfaction of ownership. Hence, as a monthly feature, we will be bringing out to you the after sales approach of every major automobile distributor in the country. Of course one at a time!

AFTERSALES SERVICES OF IN NEPAL

INFO COURTESY: Mr. Rajeev Tamrakar (Service Manager at GO Ford) PHOTOS: GO Ford

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April 2013

INTRODUCTION GO Automobiles Pvt. Ltd. (GO Ford) is the automotive division of Golchha Organisation, which has a business legacy of 8 decades of dedicated service to the country. GO Ford is the exclusive dealer of Ford Products in Nepal. The partnership between auto sector leader Ford, with their experience and great products, and GO Automobile, with its local market knowledge and reach, has made it possible for a global brand with more than 100 years of history to be made accessible in Nepal. GO Ford is committed to bringing world-class service to its customers and both its showroom and service station are equipped with highly trained staff and the latest tools to ensure a better service experience. In addition to its 4,600 squarefoot showroom area at Thapathali, GO Ford boasts of an 18,000 square-foot workshop area with state of the art service facilities at Sitapaila. The USPs of owning a Ford vehicle in Nepal is that customers enjoy low cost of ownership, high end reliability, easy availability of spare parts and get a good value for money.

www.autolife.com.np

SERVICE & NETWORK HIGHLIGHTS •

GO Ford maintains a state-of-the-art service facility with all the required modern garage equipments and special tools. The GO Ford Service Centre is the main authorized service centre for all Ford vehicles in Nepal and is located at Sitapaila, Swoyambhu near APF Headquarters. They specialize in all kinds of repairs and maintenance services of Ford vehicles, including dent and paint services within the same premises.

•

The main service centre is equipped with modern equipments and tools such as scissors lift, two-post lift, wheel alignment machine, digital balancing machine, tyre changers, jib cranes, hydraulic press, spot welder, MIG welder, plasma cutter, 7.1 metre paint booth etc and universal diagnostic testers with integrated diagnostic softwares.

•

A special air conditioned Customer Lounge and Driver Lounge with visual and print entertainment aids such as TV, magazines and newspapers are available for customers/drivers to relax, while the vehicle is being serviced. GO Ford sub-dealer network is spread throughout Nepal with 7 sales showrooms and their authorized service centres. All dealers have to strictly adhere to the service guidelines and procedures as set by Ford India.

www.autolife.com.np

“GO FORD IS COMMITTED TO BRINGING WORLDCLASS SERVICE TO ITS CUSTOMERS.”

CUSTOMER FOCUS •

Service and Free Check-Up camps for customers such as summer, monsoon and winter camps are organized at the main service centre on a regular basis. GO Ford also organizes frequent service camps at various dealer locations outside Kathmandu.

•

Vehicle pickup and drop facility with a very nominal charge is also available for those customers who are unable to visit service centre due to time constrains.

•

They provide a 24 X 7 breakdown service to all their customers. An emergency breakdown repair service van and a specialized vehicle for towing are available whenever required.

•

Service reminder calls are regularly made to customer from DCRC (Dealer Customer Relation Centre). First reminder is made 15 days prior to service due date, second reminder on 7 days prior to due date and last reminder on due date.

•

PSF (Post Service Follow-Up) calls to customers are made 72 hours after vehicle repair, maintenance or service to take their feedback on quality of repair and overall service experience. Concerns and complaints are registered and forwarded to the concerned department.

•

Strong focus is laid on FIRFT (Fix It Right First Time) to ensure that problems in the vehicle are resolved at the first time itself so as to avoid repeated repairs, thereby saving customers time and money.

•

The parent company Ford India themselves ensures the level of customer satisfaction after a vehicle is serviced or repaired through the CVP (Customer View Point) initiative, which directly surveys customers through telephone calls and emails. The feedback is reported to GO Ford if there are areas that the distributor needs to improve on. AUTOLIFE April 2013 73

“GO FORD HIGHLY FOCUSES IN SELLING ONLY GENUINE FORD SPARE PARTS AND IN MONITORING UNIFORMITY OF MRP THROUGHOUT ALL DEALERSHIPS AND COUNTRY.” MECHANIC QUALIFICATION & TRAINING •

An in-house training for technicians is conducted every week end.

•

Technicians enrolled for Technical Level 1, 2 and 3 are sent to Ford Training Centres in India. Technicians are also sent to India for Special Field Service Training and Integrated Diagnostic Software Trainings.

•

Besides Technical Trainings, there are several soft skill trainings for Customer Care Executives and Managers, Service Advisors, Floor Supervisors, Quality Inspectors, Warranty Analysts, Parts Managers and Service Managers who are sent to Ford India for training.

•

GO Ford assures that technicians from all the sub- dealers are trained to specialize in repairing Ford Vehicles.

SPARE PARTS AVAILABILITY •

•

S pare parts are specially stocked in a 650 square metre facility maintained by the company.

parts is ensured within 5 to 10 days.

GO Ford maintains a stock inventory worth more than Nrs.2 Crores and a Safety Stock is maintained for at least 100 cars.

•

Regular stock order and maximum estimated time of delivery of unavailable

•

74 AUTOLIFE

April 2013

ere is daily delivery of parts to service Th networks. The company has made it mandatory for all sub-dealers to maintain minimum spare stock. O Ford highly focuses in selling G only genuine Ford spare parts and

in monitoring uniformity of MRP throughout all dealerships and country.

WARRANTY & SERVICING DETAILS •

General terms of Manufacturer warranty is 2 years or 100,000kms (whichever occurs earlier) for every variant of Ford India vehicles against manufacturing defects. www.autolife.com.np

NEPAL’S FIRST MEN’S MAGAZINE fashion > fitness > food > lifestyle culture > tech > sports > finance the nepali man Vol 1 Issue 1 March / April 2013 NRs.100

FEATURES meN SHOuLd kNOw

HOw tO LISteN

wHy dO meN

rApe

LUCKY THIRTEEN

13 WAYS TO WOO A WOMAN

sports >in conversation> with the nepalese football coaches futsal: recreational revolution

tecHNOLOgy> bAttLe OF tHe tAbLetS INterIOr> mOderN bAcHeLOr-pAd Nepal’s First Complete Men’s Magazine

ICON

MARLON BRANDO THE GODFATHER

career INTERVIEW ETIQUETTE WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY

food 5-min. recipes

LEADERSHIP INSPIRATIONS:

FROM

new wheels for

300THE MOVIE

2013 music

Vol 1 Issue 1

rAJeSH

March/April 2013

HAmAL > Like never before

acoustic maya

FASHION

TIMELESS TRENDS >SUIT UP! Classic Styles, New Blends

SPRING

BRINGING BACK THE DENIMS! FRAGRANCES COLORS FOR MEN SPRING KICKS: A Collection of Spring Footwear

FACEBOOK

TO SUBSCRIBE Buzz us at 4428504 facebook.com/TNM.Magazine www.autolife.com.np

AUTOLIFE April 2013 75

76 AUTOLIFE

April 2013

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AUTOLIFE April 2013 77

TECHNICAL

Sunroof

Bluetooth

Fog Lamps

Leather Seats

Steering Adjust

Climate Control

Remote Locking

ABS

Airbags

Top Speed (KMPH)

Torque (NM)

Power (BHP)

Gearbox

Cubic Capacity (CC)

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Price (NRs)

NEW CAR BUYERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S GUIDE

Updated March 2013

EXTRA FEATURES AND SAFETY Bama Motors Pvt. Ltd, Thapathali, KTM Tel: 4226655 | 4223022

CHERY Models A1 1.3L

17,99,000 1297 5M 82 114 155 N Y N N Y N Y N N

QQ3 Full Option

17,90,000

Tiggo 2.0 A/T

36,75,000 1971 A 123 168 160 Y Y Y N Y N Y N Y

812

130

Vijay Motors Pvt. Ltd, Naxal, KTM Tel: 4414158

CHEVROLET Models Optra Magnum

29,75,000 to 32,00,000

1991

119

314

190

Aveo

24,99,000 to 29,90,000

1399

127

165

Beat 1.2

20,80,000 to 25,25,000

1199

108

150

Spark 1.0

18,60,000 to 19,90,000

995

145

Captiva 2.0 Automatic LTZ

75,00,000 1991 5A 148 320 175 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Aveo UVA1.2 LT

21,70,000 to 24,70,000

Cruze 2.0 LTZ VCDI Tavera

N/A 29,50,000 to 40,70,000

1150

110

160

1991 5A 148 327 200 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y 2499

186

125

Hansraj Hulaschand & Co Pvt. Ltd, Maitighar Tel: 4239641 | 4231985

DAIHATSU Models Terios

48,99,000 to 55,00,000

1495

103

140

BATAS Brothers Pvt. Ltd, Gairidhara Tel: 4004644 | 4004645

FIAT Models Linea 2012 Model (Diesel)

35,89,000 to 40,79,999

1368

115

168

Punto 2012 Model (Petrol)

23,71,999 25,89,999

1172

175

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

FORD Models Everest

69,99,000 to 2953 5A 153 380 165 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 75,00,000

All New Fiesta (Petrol)

34,00,000 to 1499 5M 107 140 NA Y Y Y Y Y N Y Y N 38,99,000

Fiesta Classic (Petrol)

24,50,000 to 1596 5M 99 146 175 Y Y Y Y Y N Y N N 29,90,000

Figo Petrol

Ranger Diesel All New Fiesta (AT) Petrol

78 AUTOLIFE

April 2013

18,49,000 to 23,74,000

1399

160

150

42,00,000

2499

266

38,99,000 to 41,50,000

1499 5M 107 140 NA Y Y Y Y Y N Y Y N

www.autolife.com.np

Sunroof

Bluetooth

Fog Lamps

Leather Seats

Steering Adjust

Climate Control

Remote Locking

ABS

Airbags

Top Speed (KMPH)

Torque (NM)

Power (BHP)

Gearbox

Cubic Capacity (CC)

TECHNICAL

EXTRA FEATURES AND SAFETY Saakha and Universal Automobiles, Kupondole Tel: 5011500

GEELY Models LC Panda LC Cross 1.3

16,75,000 1342 5M 85 110 NA Y Y Y N Y N N N N NA

1342 5M 85 110 165 Y Y Y N Y N Y N N Himchuli Auto International, Kupundole Tel: 5521730

GREAT WALL Models Florid 1.5L Elite

16,00,000 1497 5M 103 138 160 Y Y Y N Y N Y N N

Wingle 5 2.5TCI SLX

30,95,000 2499 5M 107 300 140 Y N Y N Y Y Y N N

Hover SLX

N/A

NEW CAR BUYERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S GUIDE

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Price (NRs)

Updated March 2013

2400 5M 135 200 N/A Y Y Y N Y N Y N Y

Syakar Trading Company Pvt. Ltd, Kantipath Tel: 5549741 | 4225490 |4253522

HONDA Models Accord 2.4 MT

78,50,000 2354 5M 180 222 225 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

City SMT

38,50,000 1497 5M 118 146 175 Y Y Y N Y N Y N N

Civic 1.8 SMT

58,00,000

CR-V 2.0L

99,00,000 1997 6M 167 218 180 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Jazz Select

32,25,000 1198 5M 89 110 175 Y Y Y Y Y N Y N Y

Brio VMT

26,70,000 1198 5M 88 109 N/A Y Y Y N Y N Y N N

1799

130

172

205

Laxmi Intercontinental, Thapathali Tel: 4101556 | 4101557

HYUNDAI Models Verna 1.4

32,96,000 1396 5M 107 135 NA Y Y Y N Y Y Y N Y

Accent GL

29,96,000 1399 5M 94 124 170 N N N N Y N Y N N

i10 Magna 1.2

21,56,000 1197 5M 66 99 140 N N Y N N N Y N N

i20 Era

22,56,000 1197 6A 90 220 160 Y Y Y Y Y N Y N Y

Santa Fe GL Diesel

70,96,000

Santro GL+

18,56,000 1086 5M 62 96 NA N N N N Y N Y N N

Sonata GL

51,96,000 1998 6M 165 198 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Tucson GL Petrol

53,96,000 1998 6M 177 382 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Elantra GLS

46,96,000 1591 6M 130 157 NA Y Y Y Y Y N Y N N

Eon Dlite+

15,76,000 814 5M 56 NA NA Y N Y N N N Y N N

www.autolife.com.np

2199

194

420

210

AUTOLIFE April 2013 79

JONWAY

TECHNICAL

EXTRA FEATURES AND SAFETY

TECHNICAL

Choice Motors, Lazimpat EXTRA FEATURES AND SAFETY Tel: 4441080 | 4441081

Sunroof

Bluetooth

Fog Lamps

Leather Seats

Steering Adjust

Climate Control

Remote Locking

ABS

Airbags

Top Speed (KMPH)

Torque (NM)

Power (BHP)

Gearbox

Cubic Capacity (CC)

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Price (NRs)

NEW CAR BUYERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S GUIDE

Updated March 2013

Models UFO

28,25,000 1584 5M 100 135 150 Y Y Y N Y N Y N Y Continental Associates Pvt. Ltd, Tinkune Tel: 2054003 | 2054004

KIA Models Cerato 1.6L

42,49,000 1591 5M 123 156 NA Y Y Y N Y Y Y N N

Picanto 1.2 EX I

24,49,000

1086

Rio N/B 1.4L

28,49,000

1399

125

Sorento 2.2L Diesel

76,49,000 2199 6M 197 421 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y

Soul 1.6L

43,49,000 1591 5M 124 156 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Sportage 2.0 L Diesel

58,49,000 - 63,49,000

1998

177

392

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

MAHINDRA Models

Bolero LX MDi 4WD

27,95,000

2523

180

Scorpio VLX 4WD

51,50,000

2179

120

290

150

XYLO

32,65,000 to 40,15,000

2498

112

240

135

Thar

21,20,000 to 29,60,000

2498

112

235

140

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

MAZDA Models BT-50

47,50,000 2499 5M 140 330 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N

Mazda 3 Full Opt

66,50,000

1598

103

145

Mazda 2 Full Opt

46,00,000

1498

102

135

Mazda 6 Full Opt

76,50,000

2489

170

226

CX-7

82,00,000 to 2488 5M 161 218 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y 85,00,000 Leon Motors Pvt. Ltd, Shantinagar Tel: 4622074 | 4622485

MITSUBISHI Models ASX 4WD GLX

79,00,000 1998 6CVT 150 197 190 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Lancer EX GLX

66,00,000 1998 6CVT 150 197 200 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

L200 Sportero 4WD 48,00,000 2477 NA 135 NA 175 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Double Cab Outlander

80 AUTOLIFE

April 2013

84,00,000

2360 6CVT 170 226 190 NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA

www.autolife.com.np

Pajero Sport GLX

1,30,00,000

Sunroof

Bluetooth

Fog Lamps

Leather Seats

Steering Adjust

Climate Control

Remote Locking

ABS

Airbags

Top Speed (KMPH)

Torque (NM)

Power (BHP)

Gearbox

Cubic Capacity (CC)

TECHNICAL Pajero GLS 3.0 V6

EXTRA FEATURES AND SAFETY

2972 5M 185 267 175 Y NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA

85,00,000 2477 5M 175 400 N/A Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Dugar Automobiles Pvt. Ltd, Balaju Tel: 4362992 | 4350912

NISSAN Models Navara LE

45,90,000 2488 6M 175 403 170 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

New Sunny 1.5

37,50,000

110

148

Tiida Sedan M

1598

110

153

170

X-Trail

NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Price (NRs)

Updated March 2013

88,00,000 1995 6A 150 320 185 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Nemlink Int’l Traders Pvt. Ltd, Panipokhari Tel: 4006528 | 4410323

PERODUA Models MYVI SX

27,00,000 1298 5M 86 116 NA N N Y N Y N Y N N

Viva 850

19,45,000

847 5M 53 76 NA Y N N N Y N Y N N Constant Business Group Pvt. Ltd, Naxal Tel: 2297455

PROTON Models Models Savvy

20,75,000 1149 5M 74 NA NA N N Y N N N Y N N

Persona 1.6

30,75,000 1597 5M 110 148 NA Y Y Y N Y Y Y N N

Gen 2 - 1.6

30,50,000

1597

125

150

Skoda M.A.W, Thapathali Tel: 4216835 | 4268788

SKODA

Models

Superb

71,90,000 to 73,90,000

1968

140

320

206

Fabia

23,95,000 to 28,95,000

1200

110

Laura 1.8

53,49,000 to 56,49,000

1798

118

250

225

Yeti 2.0

61,90,000 to 63,90,000

1968

140

320

210

Rapid

31,25,000 to 1598 5M 105 153 NA Y Y Y Y Y N Y Y N 40,95,000

SSANGYONG

Constant Business Group Pvt. Ltd, Naxal Tel: 2297455

Models Korando Active

50,75,000 1998 5M 175 360 180 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y

Rexton

59,75,000 2696 5M 160 340 180 Y Y Y N Y Y Y N Y

Actyon Sports

34,75,000 1998 5M 140 310 NA Y Y Y N Y Y Y N Y

SUBARU

Vijay Motors Pvt. Ltd, Naxal, KTM Tel: 4414158

Models Forester

www.autolife.com.np

90,00,000 2498 5M 230 320 NA Y Y Y Y Y N Y N N 95,00,000 (A/T)

AUTOLIFE April 2013 81

TECHNICAL

Sunroof

Bluetooth

Fog Lamps

Leather Seats

Steering Adjust

Climate Control

Remote Locking

ABS

Airbags

Top Speed (KMPH)

Torque (NM)

Power (BHP)

Gearbox

Cubic Capacity (CC)

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Price (NRs)

NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE

Updated March 2013

EXTRA FEATURES AND SAFETY Arun Intercontinental Traders, Jhamsikhel Tel: 5547165 | 5547166

SUZUKI

Models Ertiga Lxi

31,00,000 1373 5M 94 130 170 Y Y Y N Y N Y N N

Alto K10 Vxi

16,99,000

A-Star Zxi

21,49,000 1000 5M 67 90 160 Y Y Y N Y N Y N N

EECO STD 7Seater

17,59,000

Grand Vitara MT

70,00,000 1995 5M 164 225 175 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y

Ritz VXI

22,35,000 1200 5M 75 190 NA N Y Y N Y Y Y N N

Swift Vxi

24,49,000 1200 5M 75 190 160 N Y Y N Y Y Y N N

Dzire Zxi

28,99,000 1200 5M 75 190 160 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

SX4 Zxi

33,19,000 1586 5M 102 145 175 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

1000

1200

1000

101

145

New Wagon R Vxi

19,55,000

Zen Estilo Vxi

18,95,010 1000 5M 64 84 150 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

800 Std

11,22,000

800 4M 37 59 NA N N N N Y N N N N Sipradi Trading Pvt Ltd, Teku Tel: 4250610 | 4250612

TATA Models Aria Prestige AWD

53,85,000 2179 5M 138 320 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y

Indica Refresh

14,45,000 1405 5M 64 100 145 N N N N N N N N N 17,95,000

Indica Vista Q-JET

22,25,000 to 26,95,000

1248

190

160

Indigo CS

19,45,000 to 23,95,000

1405

135

165

Manza Q-JET

28,45,000 to 31,45,000

1248

200

Nano

8,58,000 to 11,88,000

624

105

Safari Dicor

33,45,000 to 46,95,000

2179

138

320

Sumo Grande

29,85,000 to 34,85,000

2179

120

250

140

Sumo Gold

25,25,000 to 28,90,000

2956

223

175

United Traders Syndicate, Sinamangal Tel: 4478301-5, 4478003

TOYOTA Models Avanza

40,80,000

1298 5M 90 120 150 Y Y Y N Y Y Y N N

Corolla

72,50,000

1598 5M 104 145 170 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Fortuner

96,60,000

2928 5M 160 343 170 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y

Land Cruiser Prado 16,500,000 2982 5M 129 343 170 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y Dual AC Rav 4 Auto

97,80,000

2362 5M/4A 167 224 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y

THE WORLD’S

NO. 1

MULTIPURPOSE LUBRICANT 82 AUTOLIFE

April 2013

AUTOLAND PVT. LTD. 199 TEKU ROAD, KATHMANDU TEL: 4261433, 4212617 FAX: 4262069 EMAIL: INFO@AUTOLAND.COM.NP www.autolife.com.np

Yaris Sedan

54,50,000

Sunroof

Bluetooth

Fog Lamps

Leather Seats

Steering Adjust

Climate Control

Remote Locking

ABS

Airbags

Top Speed (KMPH)

Torque (NM)

Power (BHP)

Gearbox

Price (NRs)

TECHNICAL

Updated March 2013

EXTRA FEATURES AND SAFETY

1298 5M 86 120 NA Y Y Y N Y Y Y N N Pooja International Pvt. Ltd, Panipokhari Tel: 4006605 | 4006606

VOLKSWAGEN Models Passat CC

75,50,000 to 87,00,000

1798

158

250

223

Golf

48,00,000

1595 5M 103 148 120 Y Y Y Y Y N Y N N

NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Cubic Capacity (CC)

Updated April 2012

Passat A/T Loaded 87,00,000 1798 6A 158 250 220 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Polo

22,95,000 to 33,95,000

1198

103

153

185

Tiguan TDI

69,75,000 to 86,00,000

1964

138

320

Touareg 3.0D A/T (Full Option)

1,35,00,000 2967 8A 241 550 220 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Vento 1.6

31,95,000 to 42,95,000

1598

103

153

185

Constant Business Group Pvt. Ltd, Naxal Tel: 2297455

ZOTYE Models Zotye Nomad II 1.5L 24,75,000

1500 5M 105 135 145 N Y N N N N Y N N

Mileage (KMPL)

Fuel Tank (Litre)

Dry Weight (KG)

Ground Clearance (MM)

Wheelbase (MM)

Height (MM)

Length (MM)

Top Speed (KMPH)

Gears

Torque (NM)

Power (BHP)

Cubic Capacity (CC)

Models

SYM

Shrestha Company Pvt. Ltd, Teku, Tel: 4251202 MAGIC 110 RR

1,59,900 110

N/A 7.2/6000 4 80 1890 N/A 1205 N/A 102 3.5 N/A

ORBIT II

1,84,900 125

N/A 8.33/6500 CVT 91 1905 N/A 1325 N/A 109 5.2 N/A

JET4

2,09,900 125

N/A 8.6/7000 CVT 85 1900 N/A 1330 N/A 113 5.2 N/A

5,99,900

N/A

WOLF SB250Ni

250

23.1/6000

KTM DUKE

2005

N/A

1320

150

173

N/A

Hansraj Hulaschand & Co. Ltd Naxal, Tel: 4415462 200 DUKE

3,89,900 199.5 25/1000 19.2/800 6 135 N/A 810 1350 165 126

ANNA LIFAN

140

NEW BIKE BUYER’S GUIDE

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Price (NRS)

Updated March 2013

COOL BOY

DUE

Annapurna Lifan Company Pvt. Ltd Teku, Tel: 4241521 1,55,900 149.4 13.5/8500 8.5/7500 5 95 N/A 830 1680 250 120 10.5 50 99,900

97 5.5/7500 6.6/5000 4 N/A N/A 750 1208 140 95

APOLLO

4 70

Universal Super Impex Jyatha Tole, Tel: 4227337 ORION RX 250T

3,16,000 249.4 17.5/7500 18/5500 5 105 N/A 930 1420 280 118 8 35

ORION RX 250M

3,16,000 249.4 17.5/7500 18/5500 5 105 N/A 880 1420 280 118 8 35

THE WORLD’S

NO. 1

MULTIPURPOSE LUBRICANT www.autolife.com.np

AUTOLAND PVT. LTD. 199 TEKU ROAD, KATHMANDU TEL: 4261433, 4212617 FAX: 4262069 EMAIL: INFO@AUTOLAND.COM.NP AUTOLIFE April 2013 83

Fuel Tank (Litre)

Mileage (KMPL)

Ground Clearance (MM)

Wheelbase (MM)

Dry Weight (KG)

BAJAJ

Height (MM)

Length (MM)

Top Speed (KMPH)

Gears

Torque (NM)

Power (BHP)

Cubic Capacity (CC)

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Price (NRS)

NEW BIKE BUYER’S GUIDE

Updated March 2013

140

Hansraj Hulaschand & Co. Ltd Teku, Tel: 4220094 | 4261200 Models AVENGER 220

2,46,900

DISCOVER 100 DTS-SI

1,44,900 94.38 7.5/7500 7.85/5000 5 90 N/A 800 1305 165 108 8

DISCOVER 125 DTS-SI

1,63,900 (DISK) 124.6 11/8000 10.8/5500 5 N/A N/A 800 1305 165

110

DISCOVER 150

1,72,900

144.8

13/7500

12.75/5500

110

N/A

800

1305

115

PLATINA 100

1,22,900

99.27

8/7500

8/5500

N/A

805

1275

160

100

PLATINA 1,38,900 125 DTS-SI

124.58

9.5/7000

11/5000

100

N/A

785

1275

160

100

BOXER 150

1,39,900

144.8

12/7500

12/5000

100

N/A

803

1285

N/A

122

PULSAR 150 DTSI

2,09,900

149.01

15.06/9000

12.5/6500

115

N/A

785

1320

160

120

PULSAR 180 DTSI

2,26,900

178.60

17/8500

14/6000

120

N/A

785

1345

165

130

PULSAR 220F

2,49,900

220

21/8500

19/7000

135

N/A

795

1350

165

140

PULSAR 200 NS

2,64,900

200

23.2/9500

18.3/8000

135

2100

805

1363

167

145

219.89 19/8400 17.5/7000 5

120 N/A 710 1475

DAELIM

169

165

80 N/A

AKU Nepal Enterprises Kalimati, Tel: 4288339 | 4286018 Models ROADWIN 150R

2,88,500

150 15/10600 12.5/8400 5

5,00,000

249 23/9000 19/8000 5 140 N/A 780 1380 150 160

ROADWIN R250 FI

DEMAK

120 N/A 780 1380

150

135

N/A

15 N/A

Agni Incorporated Pvt. Ltd Uttar Dhoka, Tel: 4420964 Models COUGAR 250

3,95,000

249 19/7500 N/A 5 N/A N/A 760 1480 140 140 14 40

2,38,000

150 13/8500 10/7500 5 N/A N/A 840 1380 270 120 8.5 50

DMX-R

DUCATI

Turbo Motors Trading Naxal,Tel: 4435720 Models HYPERMOTARD 796

18,50,000

803 81/8000 74/6250 6 200 N/A 825 1455 N/A 155 12.5 N/A

MONSTER 696

16,80,000

696 80/9000 69/7750 6 N/A N/A 770 1450 N/A 160

N/A

MONSTER 796

18,90,000

803 87/8250 79/6250 6 220 N/A 800 1450 N/A 167

N/A

848 EVO

27,00,000

849.4 140/10500 98/9750 6 N/A N/A 830 1430 N/A

168

15.5 N/A

1198

N/A

1198.4 170/9750 131/8000 6 N/A N/A 820 1430 N/A

171

15.5 N/A

MULTISTRADA 1200 S

35,00,000

1198.4

150 / 9250

118 / 7500

N/A

850

1530

N/A

192

N/A

SPORTSCLASSIC GT1000

N/A

992

92 / 8000

90 / 6000

N/A

810

1425

N/A

185

N/A

GLOBAL

Jai Shambu Automotives Pvt. Ltd Ravi Bhawan, Tel: 4289933 | 4277049

Models

84 AUTOLIFE

April 2013

G-100

1,21,000

7.2/8000

6.5/6000

N/A

1280

150

100

N/A

UFO 150

1,56,500

149.6

8.5/7500

9.2/6000

AUTO

N/A

1275

135

100

N/A

XPRESSION+

1,48,994

124

10.5/8500

8.4/7500

N/A

1280

140

100

N/A

www.autolife.com.np

Dry Weight (KG)

Fuel Tank (Litre)

Ground Clearance (MM)

Wheelbase (MM)

103

N/A

860

1375

280

115

VR 200H

3,49,000

197

19/7500

15/6000

105

N/A

860

1375

290

130

HARTFORD

Height (MM)

Length (MM)

12.5/7500

Gears

13.5/8500

Torque (NM)

149

Power (BHP)

2,99,000

Cubic Capacity (CC)

VR 150H

Price (NRS)

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

International Motor Pvt. Ltd Teku, Tel: 4265336 | 4265337

Models

HERO

Nepal General Marketing Pvt Ltd Jyoti Bhawan, Kantipath, Tel: 4225377 Models CBZ X-TREME 2,11,000 (DDS) 149.2 14.2/8500 12.8/6500 5 110 N/A 800 1325 145 135 15 60.25 HF DELUXE DRK

97.2

7.2/8000

7.5/5000

N/A

790

1230

165

100

10.5

GLAMOUR 1,85,000(DSS FI)

1.24,500

124.8

9/7000

10.35/4000

N/A

775

1265

150

115

HUNK 2,05,000(DDS)

149.2

14.2/8500

12.8/6500

110

N/A

795

1325

145

135

12.5

1355

150

135

1350

160

145

KARIZMA DSS

2,42,500

223

16.5/7000

18.3/6000

125

N/A

KARIZMA ZMR

3,01,500

223

17.5/7000

18.3/6000

130

N/A

795 795

NEW BIKE BUYER’S GUIDE

Top Speed (KMPH)

Updated March 2013

PLEASURE 1,41,000 102 7/7000 7.8/5000 AUTO 80 N/A 750 1240 125 95 5.5 50

SPLENDOR NXG

1,44,500

97.2

SPLENDOR PLUS

1,41,000

97.2 7.4/8000 7.2/5000 4

85 N/A 775 1230 160

110 10.5

SPLENDOR PRO

1,46,000

97.2

SUPER SPLENDOR

1,57,000

124.7 9.13/7000 10.35/4000 4

7.7/7500

7.6/7500

7.6/6000

8.04/4500

100

N/A

100 N/A

HONDA

785

1230

160

100

775

1230

160

100

775

1235

150

110

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

ACTIVA

1,54,900

110

8/7500

8.8/5500

AUTO

N/A

765

1238

145

100

5.3

AVIATOR 1,64,900 110 8/8000 8.82/5500 AUTO 85 N/A 790 1256 145 95 6 52

CB SHINE 1,74,900(DRS)

125

10.3/7500

10.9/5500

100

N/A

790

1265

175

110

CB TWISTER

1,70,900(DSS)

110

9/8000

9/6500

N/A

800

1262

180

100

CB UNICORN

2,09,900 (DSS)

110

13.2/8000

12.8/5500

115

N/A

790

1340

180

135

CB UNICORN DAZZLER

2,12,900

150

14/8500

12.8/6500

120

N/A

780

1328

162

125

CBF STUNNER

1,89,900 (NEW)

125

11/8000

11/6500

100

N/A

790

1271

173

120

NEW DIO

1,60,900

110

7/7000

N/A

762

1235

145

100

CBR 250RA

5,24,900

250

25.3/8500

23 7000

155

N/A

780

1370

145

150

CBR 600

600

118/13500

66/11250

240

N/A

820

1369

135

156

CB 600F HORNET

600

102/12000

63.510500

210

N/A

800

1435

135

CB 1000R

CBR1000RR

www.autolife.com.np

183

22,00,000 1000 125/10000 100/8000 6 240 N/A 825 1445 130 213 17 15

26,00,000

NXR150 BROS 5,25,000

XR250

7.8/5500 AUTO

6,25,000

1000 175/12000 112/8500 6

N/A N/A 820

1410 N/A

200

17.7

150 14/8000 13.6/6000 5 N/A N/A 830 1353 245

120

N/A

250 23.3/7500 23.7/6000 6

135 11.5

N/A

140 N/A 880 1427 281

AUTOLIFE April 2013 85

Fuel Tank (Litre)

Mileage (KMPL)

160

N/A

647 72/9000 61/7250 6 190 N/A 790 1435 185 200

N/A

11,10,900

647

72/9000

61/7250

200

N/A

830

1435

165

200

N/A

RT 125D

4,68,900

124.5

13.5/10000

11/8000

N/A

790

1350

230

135

N/A

GV250

6,49,900

249 27/10500 22/7500 5 N/A N/A 710 1508 150 167

N/A

GV650P

13,50,000

249 80/9000 67/7250 5 N/A N/A 705 1700 160 220

N/A

Power (BHP)

HYOSUNG

Height (MM)

155

Length (MM)

Dry Weight (KG)

Ground Clearance (MM)

Wheelbase (MM)

Top Speed (KMPH)

N/A

Gears

Torque (NM)

160

Cubic Capacity (CC)

175

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Price (NRS)

NEW BIKE BUYER’S GUIDE

Updated March 2013

Batas Motors Pvt. Ltd Naxal, Tel: 4004626 | 4004627

Models

GT250N

6,20,900

249

GT250R

7,05,900

249 26.35/9000 21/6750 5

GT650N

10,65,900

GT650R

26.5/9000

21/6750

150

N/A

830

1435

150 N/A 830 1435

KAWASAKI

Hansraj Hulaschand & Co. Ltd Teku, Tel: 4220094 | 4261200

Models

NINJA 250R

NINJA 650R

7,49,900

249 32/11000 22/8200 6 160 N/A 790 1400 135

160

13,50,000 649 72/8500 64/7000 6 N/A 2110 805 1410 130 211 16 N/A

MAHINDRA 2 WHEELERS

SG Global Pvt. Ltd Teku, Tel: 4231057 | 4231058

Models

DURO RODEO

1,45,900

124.6

8/7500

9/5500

AUTO

N/A

770

1290

155

100

1,61,900 124.6 8/7000 9/5500 AUTO 85 N/A 760 1245 155 106 4.5 45

PIAGGIO

Anna Automobile Pvt. Ltd Teku, Tel: 4229855

Models

BYQ125

1,48,000

126.3

9.7/8500

8.6/7000

N/A

1295

180

115

CITYPARD 150

1,55,000

149

11.7/8000

11/6000

N/A

870

1400

150

115

1,49,000

6.5

ISHINE 100

96.21

N/A 6.81/6000 AUTO N/A N/A N/A 1340 130

RIEJU

Tunche Trans Himalayan Trading Concern Bhrikuti Mandap, Tel: 4268169 Models MARATHON 185 PRO

4,67,000

125

120 N/A 870 1395 N/A 115

6.5 N/A

MARATHON 450

11,00,000

449

N/A

N/A N/A 900 1485 N/A

8.5

4,70,000 230 N/A

TANGO 250

115

N/A

N/A 5 N/A N/A 840 N/A N/A 100 5.5 N/A

ROYAL ENFIELD

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

Models CLASSIC 350

4,31,000

346

20/5250

28/4000

N/A

800

1370

140

170

13.5

N/A

CLASSIC CHROME CLASSIC 500 DESERT STORM

5,55,000 5,15,000 5,35,000

499

27/5250

41.3/4000

130

N/A

800

1370

140

170

13.5

N/A

ELECTRA TWIN SPARK

4,15,000

346

20/5250

28/4000

115

N/A

800

1370

140

170

13.5

N/A

3,35,000

346

18/5000

32/3000

100

N/A

760

1370

140

150

14.5

4,11,000

346

20/5250

28/4000

115

N/A

770

1370

140

170

15.5

STD350 UCE

THUNDERBIRD TWIN SPARK

SUZUKI

Ganesh Enterprises Kamalpokhari, Tel: 4422818 | 4423444 Models ACCESS 125

86 AUTOLIFE

April 2013

1,59,888

124

8.5/7000

9.8/5000

AUTO

N/A

780

1250

160

110

www.autolife.com.np

N/A

www.autolife.com.np

AUTOLIFE April 2013 87

Power (BHP)

Torque (NM)

Gears

Top Speed (KMPH)

Length (MM)

Height (MM)

Wheelbase (MM)

Ground Clearance (MM)

Dry Weight (KG)

Fuel Tank (Litre)

Mileage (KMPL)

Cubic Capacity (CC)

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Price (NRS)

NEW BIKE BUYER’S GUIDE

Updated March 2013

10/8000

10/7500

AUTO

N/A

745

1255

120

110

7.8

N/A

Models

AN 125HK

N/A

124

GN125H

1,67,888 124 12/8000 10/7500 5 110 N/A 735 1280 175 107 10.3 35

GS150R

2,07,888 149.5 13.8/8500 13.4/6000 6 110 N/A 790 1340 160 135 15.5 60

SLINGSHOT

1,65,888 (DISK)

124

8.5/8500

10/6000

100

N/A

790

1265

160

115

B-KING

25,00,000

1340

181/9500

146/7200

240

N/A

805

1525

120

235

16.5

N/A

BURGMAN 400

16,50,000 400 34/7300 36.3/5800 AUTO 150 N/A 710 1585 125 210 13.5 N/A

GZ250

6,25,000

249

20/8000

18.7/7000

N/A

680

1450

125

140

N/A

DR200SE

6,00,000

199

15/8500

17.7/7000

N/A

810

1405

260

115

HAYABUSA

N/A

1340

197/9800

154/10200

296

N/A

805

1480

120

220

GSR600 16,00,000 (ABS)

599

93/12000

65/9600

215

N/A

785

1440

130

185

16.5

GSX650F

16,50,000

656

85/10500

62/8900

240

N/A

770

1470

125

220

GSX-R600

22,00,000

599

125/13500

68/11500

265

N/A

810

1400

130

180

TVS

AIT Pvt. Ltd Teku, Tel: 4253661 | 4261330 Models APACHE RTR 160

2,11,900

160

15.2/8500

13.1/6000

120

N/A

790

1300

180

120

APACHE RTR 180

2,26,900

180

17/8500

15.5/6500

125

N/A

790

1326

180

120

SCOOTY PEP+

1,29,900

5/6500

5.8/4000 AUTO

N/A

740

1230

135

SCOOTY STREAK

1,34,922

87.8

5/6500

5.8/4000

AUTO

N/A

740

1230

135

4.7

STAR CITY 110

1,43,900

110

8.2/7500

8.1/5000

N/A

790

1240

165

JIVE

1,52,889

109.7

8.4/7500

8.3/5500 AUTO

N/A

780

1260

165

WEGO

1,56,900

110

8/7500

N/A

770

1275

150

100

8/5500

AUTO

YAMAHA

Morang Auto Works Teku, Tel: 4261160 | 4268252 Models

ENTICER DLX

88 AUTOLIFE

April 2013

1,81,900

123.7

11/8000

10.4/6500

N/A

710

1375

140

105

13.5

N/A

FAZER

2,21,900

153

14/7500

14/6000

115

N/A

790

1335

160

130

13.5

FZ-16

1,99,900

153

14/7500

14/6000

115

N/A

790

1335

160

125

FZ-S

2,16,900

153 14/7500 14/6000 5 115 N/A 790 1335 160 125

SS 125

1,73,900

123

11/7500

10.4/6500

110

N/A

795

1295

155

110

SZ-R 1,88,900 (DISK)

153

12/7500

12.8/4500

105

N/A

802

1320

165

120

SZ-X

1,74,900

153

12/7500

12.8/4500

105

N/A

802

1320

165

120

YBR 110

1,42,900

106

7.5/7500

7.8/6000

100

N/A

795

1290

173

115

YBR 125 DX

1,60,900

123

10.8/7500

10.4/6500

105

N/A

795

1300

180

115

13.5

YZF R15 V2

3,22,900

149.8

17/8500

15/7500

135

N/A

790

1290

160

120

YZF-R6

20,47,900

599

122/14500 65.7/10500

N/A

850

1375

130

175

XJ6

15,17,900

600

78/10000

N/A

785

1440

140

190

17.3

60/6100

www.autolife.com.np

AUTOLIFE April 2013 89

90 AUTOLIFE

April 2013

www.autolife.com.np

AUTOLIFE April 2013 91

92 AUTOLIFE

April 2013