Bajaj BSVI Motorcycles such as Pulsar 150, Discover and CT100 were caught on test. They should be ready for launch before 2020
Homegrown 2-wheeler maker Bajaj Auto has started testing a slew of its models with BSVI-compliant fuel-injected engine. The new emission norms will come into effect from April 2020 and it seems Bajaj will be ready well in advance before the actual implementation date. The strategy will help the company to manage the affairs more systematically as there won’t be the last day rush to clear the old stocks on dealer front. We have got our hands on Bajaj CT 100, Discover 110 and 125, and Pulsar 150 which were caught testing with the new, cleaner fuel-injected engine. Don’t expect a triple spark as that is reserved for higher capacity bikes only.
Meeting the stringent BS-VI emission norms will mandate some fundamental changes in the engine architecture. The new engine is expected to use 4-valve architecture for accurate control of fuel-injection and output. We don’t expect any comprehensive change in the cylinder block although the piston material and frictional forces will be remapped for cleaner emissions. The ignition system will also get its share of improvements for better mileage and enhanced refinement. In sum, the overall riding experience will be benefited with the incorporation of the new engine and already high on the mileage, the models like Pulsar, Discover, and CT will further get a shot in the arm.
Bajaj’s arch-rival Hero MotoCorp has already announced its plans of launching BS-VI compliant bikes in the country ahead of the 2020 deadline. Hero is also looking to streamline the new launch to avoid hassle of clearing the older stock from the dealerships. It will be interesting to witness how the new engines affect the pricing of the models. While some minor revision is expected, any significant change in the cost is sure to wean away the customers. The challenge, therefore, is to keep price in check while incorporating upgraded technology at the same time.
