Suzuki Intruder M1800R Review

A cruiser, a high-end sports bike, a superbike, newbie trying to compete with the Harley Davidson, is few phrases to describe the Suzuki Intruder M1800R. The sports cruiser is born from superior technology so it has advanced features to deliver the much desired high-end performance on any kind of terrain. Bikers say that M1800R is a gixer that received tweaks to be made into a cruiser.

When it comes to looks Suzuki Intruder M1800R sports a unique style statement and that ignites fire in the heart and mind of bike lovers the very first sight. Pretty looking bike, the metal and flesh on Intruder M1800R lures anyone for a test ride for sure. The back tyre is just so huge and it looks raised to the point that it can support the seating posture of the rider. The seat saddle looks dipped and is exclusively for single rider and doesn’t accommodate a pillion (who wants to take a pillion anyway on a bike like this?). The weight of the bike is almost twice that of a GSX R1000.

The pipes are dual cut and they are curved beautifully towards the rear tyre and the side stand of bike is something that’s so artistically designed and conceived. No wonder the machine has become quite popular during its first year of the launch.

Suzuki has thus been successful with the Intruder M1800R, a massive cruiser with height of 1185mm. width 875mm and the length is no less than 2480mm. The exquisite look of this raw mass of metal is accentuated with not only the stylish side stand, but also LED taillight assembly and headlight cover, streamlined. Then the fuel tank looks so stretched out with a capacity of 19.5 liters.

Looks are not all. So said do you know the unique feature of Suzuki Intruder M1800R? The strength of the bike comes as it runs on new, V-twin, 1783cc engine equipped with revolutionary SDTV (Suzuki Dual Throttle Valve) digital fuel injection system, liquid cooled, DOHC and four valves per cylinder. Each cylinder is coated with SCEM (Suzuki Composite Electrochemical Material which makes them hardy and heat resistant). Suzuki Intruder has the largest engine pistons than any other motorcycle on this planet. You better believe this. The huge 112mm aluminum-alloy piston is a product of race-proven design to give you an envious performance on the road and the track.

The engine performance of Suzuki Intruder could be compared to Triumph’s Rocket III and not in fact the HD cruiser. The bike weight is mostly taken down beneath its huge fuel tank and also to the front of the rider. So what you might wonder. It implies an easy maneuverability because the seat height becomes lower than the Triumph’s. It also means that the bike is easily manageable. That is quite appealing and the more one rides the bike the better one feels. The bike adjusts so well for comfortable U turns and it should become a child play once a rider gets used to the bike.

Being a very powerful cruiser Suzuki Intruder M1800R comes with a hefty price tag as well. The hyper cruiser, M1800R reflects a perfect blend of styling, extraordinary torque and raw power. Suzuki Intruder M1800R is simply huge and the Japanese company Suzuki intended to make it different from all the other cruisers.

Available in two colors such as Pearl Dark Cherry Red and Pearl Nebular Black, Suzuki Intruder M1800R, boasts of some great brakes too but in an undulating terrain, as you shift gears, the ride can get bumpy occasionally. However, in normal road conditions, riding a Suzuki Intruder M1800R is an exciting opportunity to feel the difference. It has a separate seat for the pillion rider making it all the more comfortable.

The front suspension of Suzuki Intruder M1800R is inverted telescopic, oil damped and coil spring while the rear suspension is the link type. The power is awesome (127 Bhp @ 6200 rpm) and Suzuki Intruder M1800R commands an incredible torque of 160 Nm @ 3200 rpm with electronic ignition and compression ratio of 10.5: 1. The wheelbase of Suzuki Intruder M1800R is 1710mm and come with tubeless tyres for greater stability and gripping on the roads. A big bike but then it comes with remarkable balance. The rear tyre of Suzuki Intruder M1800R comes with tech specification of 240mm in width.

Check the awesome speed of this massive sports bike. The kerb weight of Suzuki Intruder M1800R is 347 kg and it can speed up to 240kmph. The mileage of this massive bike is 10 km per liter. From its style and look, power and performance, safety measures to pollution complaint norms, Suzuki Intruder M1800R can give one and all a promising and exciting cruising experience with a price.

Suzuki Hayabusa (GSX-R1000) Review

Suzuki bikes have been living to expectations of bike lovers by application of the latest in biking technology and coming up with new variants of racing bikes with that hard fought experience in racing to give the edge on racing tracks especially. For sure the racing bike Suzuki GSX-R1000 deserves a mention here. It’s one from the GSX-R series from Suzuki’s portfolio. It was launched in 2001 and almost established its niche market and fanfare across the world because of loads of new technology incorporated. Suzuki GSX-R1000 is also dubbed to be a machine made for street cruising but also strong to race on the tracks.

It is the ability to meet the requirements of riders such as acceleration, braking, and cornering and repeat that makes the Suzuki technology rightfully one of the best in the biking world. It’s because their bikes are designed to give much needed comfort to the rider which is ignored by other bike makers. Suzuki’s racing bikes have incredible lap time on the tracks, and so become a driving bliss for rider to drive them on the highways.

Should looks be sufficient for a bike lover the Suzuki Hayabusa can lure you away with its looks. The beast like machine has lots of muscle on the fuel tank and the big rear tyre gives the monster like looks to this street-smart machine. Seat saddle dips and the rear tyre assembly rises, so the seating is ergonomically supported. Again, the super bike is designed to take only the rider. His companion will be the machine itself and seat doesn’t accommodate one more. Trendy dual-toned side and front cowls appeal the youth and the side stand looks somewhat flimsy (don’t doubt its strength though as there have been no instances of its breakage while supporting the weight of the bike).

Note: This bike is not the same one as the Hayabusa which was launched in India recently. A review of that bike will be published soon.

Suzuki GSX-R1000 is more popular as Suzuki Hayabusa and it has more power compared to its forerunners; that of 7bhp-185bhp variants. This one is for sure a rider-friendly bike and it sports a 3-way power switch so one can opt for whatever power one desires which obviously depend on the road/track conditions. However, the maximum derivable speed of Hayabusa is a galloping 190kmph.

The GSX-R1000 K7 runs on a 999cc 4-stroke, 4-cylinder liquid-cooled engine for increased power, torque and acceleration. The engine uses, what is called as, forged pistons technology in aluminum alloy with chrome-molybdenum connecting rods and hollow camshafts in addition to the secondary balance shaft to reduce the vibration.

The power execution as well as throttle twist are absolute smoothie in the Hayabusa and will transfer an incredible experience for the driver. It indeed takes a little time to get used to throttle of this machine if you are a HD rider for long.

Additionally, Suzuki Hayabusa features ISC (Idle Speed Control) system which means better starting even during cold times and a stable idle quality eventually emitting low wastes into atmosphere. Large oil pump cools the oil and; the rear shock has high and low compression damping. The long wheelbase makes the ride and balance absolute easy for the racetrack purists. GSX-1000R K7 has loads of electronic gadgetry should looks and engine are not sufficient to attract you. It has an electronic controlled steering damper, a slipper clutch as well as adjustable suspension. The radial brakes and the adjustable pegs make it better with those master cylinders

Suzuki Hayabusa sports a new auto-adjusting clutch that operates hydraulically. Sounds Greek and Latin? Well, it simply implies that a rider will not experience changes in the clutch on a long drive, as smooth as you are riding an auto-geared bike. Hayabusa also features a cool instrument assembly which is easy to read and also a motor-controlled analog. Besides, there are other gadgets such as digital and LCD speedometer, LCD indicator for telling engine mode, tachometer, dual trip meter, clock, as well as gear position sensor, a light to indicate rpm. Now at least these things will be up to the expectations of a technology-friendly racer of the modern day.

Coming to the performance of Hayabusa, it never lets a biker down and is considered as one very dependable fellow. The bike is built for rough usage and so runs for several miles without demanding your attention at all. If there is a flip side of this super bike, it would be the finish and paint work on the panels that let an international biker down. All said and done, the high-end technology besides electronic gadgetry and the world class performance you can count on should be enough to call you and lay hands on its throttle and you are off on the track like a horse and you will agree that the Suzuki GSX-1000R K7 Hayabusa is rightfully given the tagline, “own the racetrack!”

Suzuki Hayabusa (GSX-R1000) Review

Suzuki bikes have been living to expectations of bike lovers by application of the latest in biking technology and coming up with new variants of racing bikes with that hard fought experience in racing to give the edge on racing tracks especially. For sure the racing bike Suzuki GSX-R1000 deserves a mention here. It’s one from the GSX-R series from Suzuki’s portfolio. It was launched in 2001 and almost established its niche market and fanfare across the world because of loads of new technology incorporated. Suzuki GSX-R1000 is also dubbed to be a machine made for street cruising but also strong to race on the tracks.

It is the ability to meet the requirements of riders such as acceleration, braking, and cornering and repeat that makes the Suzuki technology rightfully one of the best in the biking world. It’s because their bikes are designed to give much needed comfort to the rider which is ignored by other bike makers. Suzuki’s racing bikes have incredible lap time on the tracks, and so become a driving bliss for rider to drive them on the highways.

Should looks be sufficient for a bike lover the Suzuki Hayabusa can lure you away with its looks. The beast like machine has lots of muscle on the fuel tank and the big rear tyre gives the monster like looks to this street-smart machine. Seat saddle dips and the rear tyre assembly rises, so the seating is ergonomically supported. Again, the super bike is designed to take only the rider. His companion will be the machine itself and seat doesn’t accommodate one more. Trendy dual-toned side and front cowls appeal the youth and the side stand looks somewhat flimsy (don’t doubt its strength though as there have been no instances of its breakage while supporting the weight of the bike).

Note: This bike is not the same one as the Hayabusa which was launched in India recently. A review of that bike will be published soon.

Suzuki GSX-R1000 is more popular as Suzuki Hayabusa and it has more power compared to its forerunners; that of 7bhp-185bhp variants. This one is for sure a rider-friendly bike and it sports a 3-way power switch so one can opt for whatever power one desires which obviously depend on the road/track conditions. However, the maximum derivable speed of Hayabusa is a galloping 190kmph.

The GSX-R1000 K7 runs on a 999cc 4-stroke, 4-cylinder liquid-cooled engine for increased power, torque and acceleration. The engine uses, what is called as, forged pistons technology in aluminum alloy with chrome-molybdenum connecting rods and hollow camshafts in addition to the secondary balance shaft to reduce the vibration.

The power execution as well as throttle twist are absolute smoothie in the Hayabusa and will transfer an incredible experience for the driver. It indeed takes a little time to get used to throttle of this machine if you are a HD rider for long.

Additionally, Suzuki Hayabusa features ISC (Idle Speed Control) system which means better starting even during cold times and a stable idle quality eventually emitting low wastes into atmosphere. Large oil pump cools the oil and; the rear shock has high and low compression damping. The long wheelbase makes the ride and balance absolute easy for the racetrack purists. GSX-1000R K7 has loads of electronic gadgetry should looks and engine are not sufficient to attract you. It has an electronic controlled steering damper, a slipper clutch as well as adjustable suspension. The radial brakes and the adjustable pegs make it better with those master cylinders

Suzuki Hayabusa sports a new auto-adjusting clutch that operates hydraulically. Sounds Greek and Latin? Well, it simply implies that a rider will not experience changes in the clutch on a long drive, as smooth as you are riding an auto-geared bike. Hayabusa also features a cool instrument assembly which is easy to read and also a motor-controlled analog. Besides, there are other gadgets such as digital and LCD speedometer, LCD indicator for telling engine mode, tachometer, dual trip meter, clock, as well as gear position sensor, a light to indicate rpm. Now at least these things will be up to the expectations of a technology-friendly racer of the modern day.

Coming to the performance of Hayabusa, it never lets a biker down and is considered as one very dependable fellow. The bike is built for rough usage and so runs for several miles without demanding your attention at all. If there is a flip side of this super bike, it would be the finish and paint work on the panels that let an international biker down. All said and done, the high-end technology besides electronic gadgetry and the world class performance you can count on should be enough to call you and lay hands on its throttle and you are off on the track like a horse and you will agree that the Suzuki GSX-1000R K7 Hayabusa is rightfully given the tagline, “own the racetrack!”

Suzuki Hayabusa (GSX-R1000) Review

Suzuki bikes have been living to expectations of bike lovers by application of the latest in biking technology and coming up with new variants of racing bikes with that hard fought experience in racing to give the edge on racing tracks especially. For sure the racing bike Suzuki GSX-R1000 deserves a mention here. It’s one from the GSX-R series from Suzuki’s portfolio. It was launched in 2001 and almost established its niche market and fanfare across the world because of loads of new technology incorporated. Suzuki GSX-R1000 is also dubbed to be a machine made for street cruising but also strong to race on the tracks.

It is the ability to meet the requirements of riders such as acceleration, braking, and cornering and repeat that makes the Suzuki technology rightfully one of the best in the biking world. It’s because their bikes are designed to give much needed comfort to the rider which is ignored by other bike makers. Suzuki’s racing bikes have incredible lap time on the tracks, and so become a driving bliss for rider to drive them on the highways.

Should looks be sufficient for a bike lover the Suzuki Hayabusa can lure you away with its looks. The beast like machine has lots of muscle on the fuel tank and the big rear tyre gives the monster like looks to this street-smart machine. Seat saddle dips and the rear tyre assembly rises, so the seating is ergonomically supported. Again, the super bike is designed to take only the rider. His companion will be the machine itself and seat doesn’t accommodate one more. Trendy dual-toned side and front cowls appeal the youth and the side stand looks somewhat flimsy (don’t doubt its strength though as there have been no instances of its breakage while supporting the weight of the bike).

Note: This bike is not the same one as the Hayabusa which was launched in India recently. A review of that bike will be published soon.

Suzuki GSX-R1000 is more popular as Suzuki Hayabusa and it has more power compared to its forerunners; that of 7bhp-185bhp variants. This one is for sure a rider-friendly bike and it sports a 3-way power switch so one can opt for whatever power one desires which obviously depend on the road/track conditions. However, the maximum derivable speed of Hayabusa is a galloping 190kmph.

The GSX-R1000 K7 runs on a 999cc 4-stroke, 4-cylinder liquid-cooled engine for increased power, torque and acceleration. The engine uses, what is called as, forged pistons technology in aluminum alloy with chrome-molybdenum connecting rods and hollow camshafts in addition to the secondary balance shaft to reduce the vibration.

The power execution as well as throttle twist are absolute smoothie in the Hayabusa and will transfer an incredible experience for the driver. It indeed takes a little time to get used to throttle of this machine if you are a HD rider for long.

Additionally, Suzuki Hayabusa features ISC (Idle Speed Control) system which means better starting even during cold times and a stable idle quality eventually emitting low wastes into atmosphere. Large oil pump cools the oil and; the rear shock has high and low compression damping. The long wheelbase makes the ride and balance absolute easy for the racetrack purists. GSX-1000R K7 has loads of electronic gadgetry should looks and engine are not sufficient to attract you. It has an electronic controlled steering damper, a slipper clutch as well as adjustable suspension. The radial brakes and the adjustable pegs make it better with those master cylinders

Suzuki Hayabusa sports a new auto-adjusting clutch that operates hydraulically. Sounds Greek and Latin? Well, it simply implies that a rider will not experience changes in the clutch on a long drive, as smooth as you are riding an auto-geared bike. Hayabusa also features a cool instrument assembly which is easy to read and also a motor-controlled analog. Besides, there are other gadgets such as digital and LCD speedometer, LCD indicator for telling engine mode, tachometer, dual trip meter, clock, as well as gear position sensor, a light to indicate rpm. Now at least these things will be up to the expectations of a technology-friendly racer of the modern day.

Coming to the performance of Hayabusa, it never lets a biker down and is considered as one very dependable fellow. The bike is built for rough usage and so runs for several miles without demanding your attention at all. If there is a flip side of this super bike, it would be the finish and paint work on the panels that let an international biker down. All said and done, the high-end technology besides electronic gadgetry and the world class performance you can count on should be enough to call you and lay hands on its throttle and you are off on the track like a horse and you will agree that the Suzuki GSX-1000R K7 Hayabusa is rightfully given the tagline, “own the racetrack!”

Honda CB1000R Review

Honda, as a company is class apart in bike manufacturing, and it has proved its mettle lately with path breaking innovation and modern technology engineered and designed to cater to all segments of bike lovers. The most recent launches of Honda in India namely, CBR1000RR and Honda CB1000R designed for Indian terrain are priced at Rs. 12.5 lacs and Rs. 9.5 lacs, respectively. Needless to say the price tag cuts majority of bike lovers and these will strictly be high-end appealing the upwardly bike enthusiasts. The motorbikes no wonder made bold new statements in the superbike category in India. In this review we shall talk about the relatively cheaper one, Honda CB1000R bike. Certainly, the all new Honda CB1000R is all set to unfold a new chapter in style, performance and safety; however, this time for some surprise on the Indian roads.

If Only Looks Are Enough: The Honda CB1000R reflects power, masculinity with a distinctive style and appeal. From the designing board to manufacturing, Honda team of engineers conceptualized CB1000R as a naked beauty to convey powerful impression of performance even when it rests on the stand. Looks monstrous and aggressive though, but one can really enjoy the ride on a CB1000R machine as its fun-filled accentuated with sheer magic of thrill and excitement.

The Honda CB1000R further grabs attention of every onlooker with the unmistakable metal as muscle to add to its look and its unstoppable power-packed performance can woo bike enthusiasts. The rear seat rises and the rear tyre is huge with seat saddle pitting a little. These looks of the bike are further enhanced with slim and short tail cowl and a forward-tilted fuel tank. The compact bikini cowl of the Honda CB1000R makes it look brilliant with its close to triangle-shaped multi-reflector headlight (I never had so much love for the wolf-eyed headlight, but this one hit me with a monster head like looks) and distinctive LED position lamp. Honda CB1000R looks big but it doesn’t look unmanageable unlike some super bikes. I find that CB1000R has more of steel than some other super bikes in the same engine segment and it does blend well with chrome. The four-spoked wheels add to the beauty

Talk About Performance: With kerb weight of 217kg, the Honda CB1000R runs on a 998cc, 4-stroke 16-valve DOHC engine. It means with each and every twist of the throttle, the super bike powers exhilarating acceleration. The mass-forward orientation of the super bike positions the rider slightly forward and it does help the rider to have a control on the bike in the windy roads and twisted turns that any sports bike rider will love.

In the segment of liter-class performers, this super street machine CB1000R delivers breathtaking power and awesome torque. It’s the torque that pulls the motorcycle in the race or to climb an uphill with tremendous ease. With a 6-speed gearbox transmission, the engine delivers maximum power output of 92kW @ 10000rpm and torque is about 1000 Nm @8000 rpm. The technical specifications of the Honda CB1000R include fully-adjustable radial front brakes, forks, single-backbone frame and all digital dashboards.

The LCD meter panel features multi-segment LCD tachometer. Other features of the Honda CB1000R include dual piston caliper, mono shock rear suspension coupled with adjustable HMAS damper in addition to 310mm floating front-disc brakes.

You Gotta Be Kidding… Super Bike On Indian Roads?

Honda CB1000R will set the heart of most bike lovers on fire as it pulsates with speed and vibrates with power be it metal road or asphalted road. It’s the acceleration that is sets it apart and with the new version of its braking system, the super bike can well be kept under control without the slightest displacement. Cartridge-type fork suspension system doesn’t fail and delivers smooth stop. The Z rate sports bike standard tyres withstand high speeds and the wider rear tyre provides the bike stability and awesome pull on the corners and turns.

Honda CB1000R is equipped with ABS or Antilock brake system which functions on bumpy and uneven road surfaces. The system reacts when there is even small change in the speed of 2 wheels and applies brake pressure for smooth and steady deceleration/stopping of the bike. So it should suit Indian roads as well.

Besides, tubeless tyres add on to the lighter weight while still gripping the road surface. With competition from Yamaha and Suzuki, Honda is poised for greater challenges in the super bike segment even in India

Final Verdict: Although Honda CB1000R super bike comes with a hefty price tag, yet the market for super bikes in India has open up well and people are now not hesitant to spend on the 1000cc metal machines and even in times of recession Honda boasts of selling its units. The Fireblade engine is redesigned for midrange performance and therefore, Honda CB1000R is expected to pump in greater demand, more for its torque than for its power.

TVS Apache RTR Fi – The Fast Just Got Faster

India’s third largest two-wheeler making company TVS Motors launched its new advanced bike last year: the new Apache RTR Fi, to hold its foot stronger in this bike segment; well, maybe so for the bike company. But Apache fans dub that the new bike adds to the wagon of Apache stunners on the road and after so many months it turns out to be so true.

The bike features fuel injection technology that adds to greater fuel efficiency. The bike is designed to look more solid and masculine with shrouds on both sides of the tank. Indeed Apache RTR Fi looks larger than its forerunner but surprisingly TVS Motors designers didn’t alter the weight of the machine. The bike sports stylish stickers on the panels as well as on the shrouds to truly give it a racing machine looks. The disc brake at the rear gives a lot more control and comfort to the rider. The new Apache RTR Fi has new scoops to draw air which assist the engine to cool faster. Additionally, just like we see in race bikes it has a data logging facility, which gives a 0-60 second lap time and also the maximum speed indicators.

What’s New As Regards To Looks Of The New Apache RTR Fi?

Apache RTR Fi bike has split grab rails that are a mix of design and performance. The aerodynamic air scoopers help the engine to cool off quickly and the alloy black wheels are not just lightweight but will appeal all and can ride through the rough surfaces. The fuel tank is not only huge but also sharp lined so to make it look very much aerodynamic and rightly proportioned muscle, just enough for adding the beastly looks.

The new Apache RTR Fi features a microprocessor which has an Electronic Control Unit made of sensors, fuel pump and an injector, which are designed to give optimum fuel metering and ignition timing.. It has got forged brake lever that makes the bike stylish. The clip on the handle bar for different positions is an added feature.

Engine and Performance: It’s the new power mill of the new Apache RTR Fi that makes it more worthwhile. It runs on a 159.7cc fuel injected engine that reaches a maximum power of 15.7 bhp at 8500 rpm and a peak torque of 13.1Nm at 6000 rpm. The top speed achievable is 120 kmph and can cross 60 kmph in just 4.8 seconds and 100 kmph in17.7 seconds. The new power mills gives Apache RTR Fi bike a fuel economy of 50-55 kmpl. The power release is gentle that motivates smoother acceleration and shifting of gears consumes less power and fuel. The fuel injection technology enables the bike to give enormous speed level.

Final Words: The Apache RTR Fi is indeed a latecomer, Hero Honda Glamour Fi and Pulsar 220cc Fi have already featured the fuel injection technology. So the competition already existed for TVS! The bike does not look any new; it is short just like its previous models. The bike seems to have spent a lot of time in the garage and the witness is the faded paint of the bike.

The LCD speedometer is new but the colour contrast makes it real hard for anyone to figure the numbers! The bike starts jarring once it touches the 60 kmph mark and the pick up is just fine but not too appealing. It almost feels that except for the new stickers all over the bike, there is nothing more unique in the bike. The LED lamps at the rear continue to be the same and the silencer is re-designed. The tachometer remains in the analogue form. But for engine upgrading there is nothing really great one can expect from the new Apache RTR Fi bike; in fact, the mileage seems to have dropped with the new fuel injected engine.

The bike is available in orange, metallic grey and sporty yellow colours. And it is priced on a higher end at Rs 78.000. The TVS Apache RTR Fi would definitely have an edge had it come a little earlier. Although it features many qualities of a race bike it does not stand out among other bikes that possess more or less same characteristics. I doubt if it truly stands to its tagline of race unleashed.

Yamaha Alba – Just Another 100cc Bike

Yamaha’s another 100 cc bike is Alba: it’s the new bike from Yamaha during the last year. The bike looks very much an extension of Libero G5 but it stands apart with some novel features though. The bike has an electric start and sports some cool graphics. Alba has all potential to fit into a middle class family picture.

Yamaha Alba may not have become quite popular with biking purists, but the bike is light on pocket when it comes to cost as well as in terms of maintenance and fuel efficiency. The new Yamaha Alba promises to be ideal for daily commuting and targets the young Indian and middle class consumers. The bike emphasizes on comfortable riding and to give a pleasurable experience for the riders.

Features in Yamaha Alba

Yamaha Alba features newly designed aerodynamic body cowl and flashes out stylish headlights and indicators. The specially designed gear ratio combats congested driving. The seats are broad and comfortable for both the rider and the pillion (didn’t I tell you Alba is for a small family?). The five spoked alloy wheels are also a highlight of this bike and the adjustable shock absorbers come with some noisy mufflers. The well-designed tank and handle bars makes the driving comfortable.

Yamaha Alba does not have an optional self-start or pilot lamps and the rider literally has to look out for the horn button! The fairing makes it hard to locate the speedometer, fuel indicator as well as the warning lights.

Engine: Yamaha Alba is power packed with 106cc engine similar to its predecessor Yamaha Libero G5 and Crux and it can generate a power of 7.6 bhp @7,500 rpm and at high torque it provides 80Nm at 6000 rpm. Alba has four-speed gearbox, which is connected to the engine. The gear system is similar to the Yamaha’s regular shift pattern. However, the perfect engineering of gear ratio helps in controlling the torque levels even at lower rpm bands. But the downside in Alba here is gear shift quality which isn’t that good. The bike could go up to 20 kmph on the 4th gear.

Yamaha Alba bike covers a decent 65 km per every liter of petrol although Yamaha Motors claims that Alba can run 85 kmpl (well, we all know what test conditions are, don’t we?). It’s this mileage that helps Yamaha Alba to stand apart from its competitor Bajaj Platina. The speed limit of the vehicle can touch 95 kmph absolutely with no vibrations but engine cries and tends to make cranking noise with increasing speeds.

Handling: As the seats are spacious, it does promote a very comfortable ride on Alba. The hydraulic shock absorbers at the rear end of the bike offers bumpy-free ride. However, you need to bend a little forward while riding because of the long wheelbase, which is 1300mm. And a 173mm ground clearance is maintained make it perfect for city riding.

Keeping the family bike image in mind the pillion seat is made a little lower when compared to the other Yamaha bikes. The bike can pose a challenge while riding through the corners. It also features drum brakes of 130 mm that is same for both the front and rear.

Pricing: The price range of Yamaha Alba varies, for the alloy wheels model it would cost you about Rs. 45,500 on road and the spoke wheeled bike would be coming for Rs. 43.500. One will wonder if he has to buy a higher priced vehicle when there are many bikes available in the market with similar features and that too for a cheaper price. But Yamaha seems to have publicized the family bike concept quite well and it sells well in B class and C class towns rather than metros. To impress all Yamaha Alba comes in 4 colors: Red, Silver, Blue and Black.

Final Words: Finally, if I am not too harsh, Yamaha will surely leave many of its customers somewhat cold for their great expectations from its bikes with an almost Libero like Yamaha Alba. It looks as if it was made to have one brand in every segment and will not appeal to upper middle class youth certainly and Yamaha Alba is also certainly not for bike enthusiasts.