Bajaj Pulsars are machines that have reached more of a national iconic status in India, having surged ahead of the average two-wheeler.
The pulsar officially sealed the fate of Bajaj as a competent bike manufacturer which does more than just cater to the two-wheeler transportation needs of the people – with the highly spirited bikes plastering broad smiles on the faces of their owners. As soon as the bike was launched, Pulsar manufacturing factories went into overdrive with production. To date, Pulsars with their twin-spark plug-equipped engine provide fuel economy figures that satisfy the daily commuting bill, as well as levels of performance that quench the thirst of Indian motorcycle enthusiasts. Though the number of on road Pulsar 150’s is significantly more than its bigger brother the 180, the 180 DTS-i has always been an important Pulsar. Being part of a line-up that consists of the 200 DTS-i and flagship 220 DTS-Fi, the 150 DTS-I and the 180-DTS-I is an attractively priced Pulsar that Bajaj hopes you will turn to when you’re bored of the previous brands that the company manufactures. And the 150 DTS-i and the 180DTS-i has just taken its game a few steps forward. On laying eyes on the trendy looking new Pulsar 150 DTS-i and 180 DTS-i, you could mistake this new face for the older 200, as these sporty bike has a raft of features from its bigger sibling, including its mini-tank extensions, beefy front forks, split seat and grab bar as well as a nicer-looking exposed O’ring sealed drive chain. What’s more is that the new Pulsar also features sporty clip-on bars as first found on only the 220. The new Pulsar sports smarter raised letter decals and a tank-protecting pad atop the fuel tank. Other eye catching features on the new bike are the illuminated, contact-less switches, as is its four-stroke, single-cylinder, air-cooled, 178.6cc power plant. Despite the new bike putting on a few extra kilos, the engine takes a marginally higher step-up developing 17.02bhp at 8500rpm and provides virtually identical performance to the outgoing model. The new Pulsar models uses a 1-down, 4-up shift pattern for its relatively smoother five-speed gearbox, and shifts via a light action toe shift lever as before.
On the launch, Manjeet Singh, the Regional Manager said, “These sporty bikes have more power and style and are an all generation bike”.
The Price Tag:
150 DTS-i – Rs 60000 to 61,000
158 DTS-i – Rs 64,000 to 65,000
Specifications:
158 DTS-i
More Power with a maximum of 17.02 Ps @ 8500 rpm.
5 speed toe gear shifter
A 12V DC system for quicker engine start ups
A thicker 37 mm front fork and tubeless tyres for a superior ride
Showing posts with label AUTOMOBILES. Show all posts
Showing posts with label AUTOMOBILES. Show all posts
Friday, June 12, 2009
After A-Star, it;s Maruti RITZ
After the recently launched A-Star, Maruti Suzuki India Limited unveiled the much awaited, Maruti Ritz.
Overview
Maruti Ritz, an already well known brand know as Splash in the European markets. The name was changed because of registration problem as Splash has been already registered by some other manufacturer.
Ritz, which is available in both diesel and petrol engine is another new model for the Maruti Suzuki after the launch of Swift, Grand Vitara ,SX4 and A Star. Based on an all-new platform, the production version has some hints of the Swift and SX4, interspersed with a C-pillar design that harks back to the concept.
Design
Unlike traditional hatchbacks, the rear end has allowed for a thicker C-pillar and made provision for a smaller quarter glass that is not very different from the Swift. With an overall width of 1.68 metres, the Ritz is 8cm wider than the Wagon R+. Smartly shaped headlights give it a friendly appearance, and they combine with a trapezoidal grille to form a “face” that reflects the new Suzuki family identity.
The Ritz is streamlined rather than boxy, but it is uncompromised in terms of interior roominess, functionality, and configurability. Its profile displays a gently rising nose, A-pillars that blend into the roof and a roofline that gently slopes toward the back, culminating in an almost vertical tailgate. Short overhangs create a compact and neat appearance.
The tailgate has an inward obtuse angle to it, something seen more often on French hatchbacks. On the inside, the Ritz continues the raid on Suzuki's parts bin with the steering wheel, gear knob, door handles, indicator switches, etc first seen on the Swift/SX4. Though, that is where the raid ends.
Engine Options
The Ritz is launched with two engine options - petrol and one diesel. The petrol one has 1197cc, 4 Cylinders, K12M engine which generates 85 Bhp at 5500 rpm and maximum torque of 117 Nm at 4200 rpm.
The common-rail diesel is 1248cc engine which develops maximum power of 75 bhp. All these engines will be mated to a 5-speed gearbox.
The gear lever is mounted high up and the driving seat is, like the steering wheel, adjustable for height. It controls an electric power steering system with about the right amount of weight but no true feel of the road. Its suspension is quite firm, in an effort to keep it agile despite the height, so it feels accurate enough in corners.
Interiors
Discussing the features RS Kalsi, Chief General Manager (Sales ) said ,” For a small car the Ritz has a lot of room, with headroom especially good. The rear seat is set higher than the front seats so all occupants get a good view out, and all seats are comfortable enough. It's a proper four-seater, and big enough for five at a squeeze. There's plenty of storage space including a flip-lid box on top of the dashboard, a fair glove box and a tray ahead of the front passenger, but non-slip surfaces would make them more usable.
The boot looks small, especially front-to-rear, but there's a big compartment hidden under the false floor with the space saver spare wheel hidden in another layer below that. The rear seats fold down in one movement per side; the cushion cranking forward to make space for the descending backrest. The new flexible compact car combines the sportiness of Suzuki's successful model Swift with the technologies and immense know-how of the Japanese world market leader in the mini car segment.
Coloured surfaces for the dashboard create a youthful, casual look in the area of the passenger airbag and the upper part of the instrument cluster. Together with high-quality materials and a metallic-silver border on the centre console, they treat occupants to a pleasingly fresh ambience. The cockpit reflects a “less is more” approach, forming a stylish, functional space without superfluous flourishes or gimmicks. A large speedometer positioned centrally behind the steering wheel is easy to read.
A digital liquid crystal display (LCD) is positioned in the lower half of the speedometer and gives the driver additional information. In certain grades, a tachometer is separately mounted on the dashboard. The number of buttons is minimal, allowing for fewer distractions and thus raising safety. The shift lever is ergonomically shaped and is positioned relatively high in the centre console to minimise its distance from the steering wheel and permit extra storage space.
Variants & Price
The Ritz is not the successor of any specific former Suzuki model, but a brand-new concept to satisfy the needs of customers in terms of roominess, compactness, modern design, aerodynamics, quality, driveability, performance and environmental friendliness.
Ritz is available in a choice of 8 fresh colours, eight of which have a metallic finish.The Ritz is aimed mainly at urban, practical people with modern lifestyles, and it reflects the ideals of the second phase of Suzuki’s world strategy - a phase in which Suzuki is focusing not just on sportiness but also on the needs of families.
Couples and young families in the market for compact cars want a sporty, fresh design coupled with practical attributes such as roominess, flexibility and economy.
Now, Let's see how Maruti manages to sell 7 hatchbacks - 800, Alto, Zen Estilo, Wagon R, Swift, recently launched A-Star and Ritz - all in same showroom.
Price: The introductory prices of the Maruti Ritz in Chandigarh are:
LXi Petrol Rs 3, 93, 233
VXi Petrol Rs 4, 23,624
ZXi Petrol Rs 4, 85877
LDi Diesel Rs 4, 68258
VDi Diesel Rs 5, 02347
Overview
Maruti Ritz, an already well known brand know as Splash in the European markets. The name was changed because of registration problem as Splash has been already registered by some other manufacturer.
Ritz, which is available in both diesel and petrol engine is another new model for the Maruti Suzuki after the launch of Swift, Grand Vitara ,SX4 and A Star. Based on an all-new platform, the production version has some hints of the Swift and SX4, interspersed with a C-pillar design that harks back to the concept.
Design
Unlike traditional hatchbacks, the rear end has allowed for a thicker C-pillar and made provision for a smaller quarter glass that is not very different from the Swift. With an overall width of 1.68 metres, the Ritz is 8cm wider than the Wagon R+. Smartly shaped headlights give it a friendly appearance, and they combine with a trapezoidal grille to form a “face” that reflects the new Suzuki family identity.
The Ritz is streamlined rather than boxy, but it is uncompromised in terms of interior roominess, functionality, and configurability. Its profile displays a gently rising nose, A-pillars that blend into the roof and a roofline that gently slopes toward the back, culminating in an almost vertical tailgate. Short overhangs create a compact and neat appearance.
The tailgate has an inward obtuse angle to it, something seen more often on French hatchbacks. On the inside, the Ritz continues the raid on Suzuki's parts bin with the steering wheel, gear knob, door handles, indicator switches, etc first seen on the Swift/SX4. Though, that is where the raid ends.
Engine Options
The Ritz is launched with two engine options - petrol and one diesel. The petrol one has 1197cc, 4 Cylinders, K12M engine which generates 85 Bhp at 5500 rpm and maximum torque of 117 Nm at 4200 rpm.
The common-rail diesel is 1248cc engine which develops maximum power of 75 bhp. All these engines will be mated to a 5-speed gearbox.
The gear lever is mounted high up and the driving seat is, like the steering wheel, adjustable for height. It controls an electric power steering system with about the right amount of weight but no true feel of the road. Its suspension is quite firm, in an effort to keep it agile despite the height, so it feels accurate enough in corners.
Interiors
Discussing the features RS Kalsi, Chief General Manager (Sales ) said ,” For a small car the Ritz has a lot of room, with headroom especially good. The rear seat is set higher than the front seats so all occupants get a good view out, and all seats are comfortable enough. It's a proper four-seater, and big enough for five at a squeeze. There's plenty of storage space including a flip-lid box on top of the dashboard, a fair glove box and a tray ahead of the front passenger, but non-slip surfaces would make them more usable.
The boot looks small, especially front-to-rear, but there's a big compartment hidden under the false floor with the space saver spare wheel hidden in another layer below that. The rear seats fold down in one movement per side; the cushion cranking forward to make space for the descending backrest. The new flexible compact car combines the sportiness of Suzuki's successful model Swift with the technologies and immense know-how of the Japanese world market leader in the mini car segment.
Coloured surfaces for the dashboard create a youthful, casual look in the area of the passenger airbag and the upper part of the instrument cluster. Together with high-quality materials and a metallic-silver border on the centre console, they treat occupants to a pleasingly fresh ambience. The cockpit reflects a “less is more” approach, forming a stylish, functional space without superfluous flourishes or gimmicks. A large speedometer positioned centrally behind the steering wheel is easy to read.
A digital liquid crystal display (LCD) is positioned in the lower half of the speedometer and gives the driver additional information. In certain grades, a tachometer is separately mounted on the dashboard. The number of buttons is minimal, allowing for fewer distractions and thus raising safety. The shift lever is ergonomically shaped and is positioned relatively high in the centre console to minimise its distance from the steering wheel and permit extra storage space.
Variants & Price
The Ritz is not the successor of any specific former Suzuki model, but a brand-new concept to satisfy the needs of customers in terms of roominess, compactness, modern design, aerodynamics, quality, driveability, performance and environmental friendliness.
Ritz is available in a choice of 8 fresh colours, eight of which have a metallic finish.The Ritz is aimed mainly at urban, practical people with modern lifestyles, and it reflects the ideals of the second phase of Suzuki’s world strategy - a phase in which Suzuki is focusing not just on sportiness but also on the needs of families.
Couples and young families in the market for compact cars want a sporty, fresh design coupled with practical attributes such as roominess, flexibility and economy.
Now, Let's see how Maruti manages to sell 7 hatchbacks - 800, Alto, Zen Estilo, Wagon R, Swift, recently launched A-Star and Ritz - all in same showroom.
Price: The introductory prices of the Maruti Ritz in Chandigarh are:
LXi Petrol Rs 3, 93, 233
VXi Petrol Rs 4, 23,624
ZXi Petrol Rs 4, 85877
LDi Diesel Rs 4, 68258
VDi Diesel Rs 5, 02347
Audi Q5 Hits Indian Roads
With the success of its various models in India, Audi launched its latest model Audi Q5 in India. The Audi Q5 is a Crossover Utility Vehicle that hit the Indian roads in the first week of June 2009.
Unveiled at the 2008 Beijing Auto Show, the Audi Q5 is expected to be globally launched by the year end. The Audi Q5 has sporty looks as it is just 1.65 meters (5.41 feet) tall. Additionally, it is 4.63 meters (15.19 feet) long and 1.88 meters (6.17 feet) wide. With a low drag coefficient of 0.33, it lays down another benchmark in its class.
Audi intends to take the competition to a new level by competing head on with these two rivals. The Audi Q5 is a direct competitor of the BMW X3 in India. Expected to be cheaper by a few lakhs to compete with this model, it is expected to draw away customers from luxury saloons like the Mercedes E-Class and the BMW 5-Series.Audi Q5 was launched on June 4th in Mumbai, Maharashtra and the base model will be priced at Rs. 37.5 lakh. The top end model will cost up to Rs. 45 lakh that will come loaded with extra options. The car features extra styling at the rear, taking cues from the Audi Q7, which has emerged as a popular option with buyers and designers. Audi expects big volume orders from emerging markets such as China, India, and Russia. Deliveries will initiate in Europe and will initially ship as Completely Built Units (CBU's), though the company could begin assembling the Audi Q5 in the country later.The Audi Q5 is expected to have three engine options for its European debut – 170 BHP 2.0L turbo diesel, and a top of the range 240 BHP 3.0 turbo diesel. Of these engines, the Audi Q5 destined for India will feature the 2.0 turbo petrol and 3.0 turbo diesel engines. These will be mated to a seven speed dual clutch gearbox. Audi has committed an investment of 30 million Euros in India till 2015.The Audi Q5 for India will be a 5 seater, targeting a customer segment lower than that for the Audi Q7. According to company officials, Audi Q5 is slightly different from the international version as it is designed in view of the present infrastructure in India. Like other Audi models, the Q5 focuses more on emotion than rationality. The present Audi Q5 reflects the style, luxuriance, and sportiness of the Q5 series. Presently, the company will launch only 2 models of the Q5 in the country, which will be exported as CBUs from the company's Ingolstadt manufacturing facility. The company has plans to launch the Audi Q5 globally by the end of the present year.
Unveiled at the 2008 Beijing Auto Show, the Audi Q5 is expected to be globally launched by the year end. The Audi Q5 has sporty looks as it is just 1.65 meters (5.41 feet) tall. Additionally, it is 4.63 meters (15.19 feet) long and 1.88 meters (6.17 feet) wide. With a low drag coefficient of 0.33, it lays down another benchmark in its class.
Audi intends to take the competition to a new level by competing head on with these two rivals. The Audi Q5 is a direct competitor of the BMW X3 in India. Expected to be cheaper by a few lakhs to compete with this model, it is expected to draw away customers from luxury saloons like the Mercedes E-Class and the BMW 5-Series.Audi Q5 was launched on June 4th in Mumbai, Maharashtra and the base model will be priced at Rs. 37.5 lakh. The top end model will cost up to Rs. 45 lakh that will come loaded with extra options. The car features extra styling at the rear, taking cues from the Audi Q7, which has emerged as a popular option with buyers and designers. Audi expects big volume orders from emerging markets such as China, India, and Russia. Deliveries will initiate in Europe and will initially ship as Completely Built Units (CBU's), though the company could begin assembling the Audi Q5 in the country later.The Audi Q5 is expected to have three engine options for its European debut – 170 BHP 2.0L turbo diesel, and a top of the range 240 BHP 3.0 turbo diesel. Of these engines, the Audi Q5 destined for India will feature the 2.0 turbo petrol and 3.0 turbo diesel engines. These will be mated to a seven speed dual clutch gearbox. Audi has committed an investment of 30 million Euros in India till 2015.The Audi Q5 for India will be a 5 seater, targeting a customer segment lower than that for the Audi Q7. According to company officials, Audi Q5 is slightly different from the international version as it is designed in view of the present infrastructure in India. Like other Audi models, the Q5 focuses more on emotion than rationality. The present Audi Q5 reflects the style, luxuriance, and sportiness of the Q5 series. Presently, the company will launch only 2 models of the Q5 in the country, which will be exported as CBUs from the company's Ingolstadt manufacturing facility. The company has plans to launch the Audi Q5 globally by the end of the present year.
Saturday, May 30, 2009
A time for a two-wheeler check-up
It is often seen that people are seeking newer vehicles that would give them ultimate comfortable ride and would serve the purposes needed. It is quite a common sight that a significant number of two wheeler owners neglect proper maintenance of their vehicles resulting in their longevity getting affected. No wonder almost all the two wheeler companies in India have come up with their automobile service centers throughout the country. These service centers play a vital role in the effective servicing of your two wheeler.
With proper maintenance of your vehicle you can certainly reduce the servicing cost that you might have to incur at a later stage. For a trouble-free ride on your favorite two-wheeler, it is imperative that you maintain it properly and inspected it regularly for minor wear and tear. Proper maintenance is important for optimum and trouble-free performance from your vehicle. Before your bike ditches you in the middle of a street, it is time you took it for a check-up.Cleaning your vehicle - a few ways to clean your vehicle effectively and keep it sparkingly bright. Lubricating your vehicle - take care to lubricate these parts at regular intervals, otherwise they might just. To keep your vehicles in a very good shape it is quite necessary that you regularly keep changing the oil.First aid tips - try these before you take your bike to the dealer...Tyres, wheels and windshields - tyres, wheel and windshields are constantly bombarded with road grease, brake dust. Make sure that you check your tyre treads once a week. Have the wheels balanced and the alignment checked if the wear is uneven.Check your tyres for cuts and scrapes on your tires, which could cause a blowout. Add air pressure as required. Many blowouts are the result of low air pressure.Examine both of your wheels for missing or loose spokes. Check the rims for cracks or dents.After the initial 500 miles... - your bike needs to be recharged after the first 500 miles that you’ve used it...
Ways to brake properly on your two-wheeler:
Two-wheelers have two brakes - the front is operated by the right hand, the rear by the right foot - and both are needed to stop effectively. Some important guidelines for braking safely and effectively on a two-wheeler are given below. Use both brakes each time you slow down or stop. If you use only the rear brake, you may never learn how to use the front brake properly when you need it. Squeeze the front brake and press down the rear brake smoothly, gradually increasing pressure as needed. Jerking the front brake or hitting the rear brake hard can cause the brakes to lock up, resulting in skids and control problems. Apply both brakes simultaneously. Many riders believe the rear brake should be applied first. On the contrary, the sooner you apply the front brake, the sooner you slow down.
With proper maintenance of your vehicle you can certainly reduce the servicing cost that you might have to incur at a later stage. For a trouble-free ride on your favorite two-wheeler, it is imperative that you maintain it properly and inspected it regularly for minor wear and tear. Proper maintenance is important for optimum and trouble-free performance from your vehicle. Before your bike ditches you in the middle of a street, it is time you took it for a check-up.Cleaning your vehicle - a few ways to clean your vehicle effectively and keep it sparkingly bright. Lubricating your vehicle - take care to lubricate these parts at regular intervals, otherwise they might just. To keep your vehicles in a very good shape it is quite necessary that you regularly keep changing the oil.First aid tips - try these before you take your bike to the dealer...Tyres, wheels and windshields - tyres, wheel and windshields are constantly bombarded with road grease, brake dust. Make sure that you check your tyre treads once a week. Have the wheels balanced and the alignment checked if the wear is uneven.Check your tyres for cuts and scrapes on your tires, which could cause a blowout. Add air pressure as required. Many blowouts are the result of low air pressure.Examine both of your wheels for missing or loose spokes. Check the rims for cracks or dents.After the initial 500 miles... - your bike needs to be recharged after the first 500 miles that you’ve used it...
Ways to brake properly on your two-wheeler:
Two-wheelers have two brakes - the front is operated by the right hand, the rear by the right foot - and both are needed to stop effectively. Some important guidelines for braking safely and effectively on a two-wheeler are given below. Use both brakes each time you slow down or stop. If you use only the rear brake, you may never learn how to use the front brake properly when you need it. Squeeze the front brake and press down the rear brake smoothly, gradually increasing pressure as needed. Jerking the front brake or hitting the rear brake hard can cause the brakes to lock up, resulting in skids and control problems. Apply both brakes simultaneously. Many riders believe the rear brake should be applied first. On the contrary, the sooner you apply the front brake, the sooner you slow down.
Dare you challenge him…
As the Formula-1(2009) recently kicked off, it is certainly impossible to predict where the season will be won - and lost, but as and when it comes to cycling, it is nobody, who could challenge cyclist Jagdeep Singh’s record of clocking 3 minute 45 seconds in the 3 km individual pursuit.
Currently, he has struck a new record of clocking 5 minute 9 seconds in the 4 km individual pursuit during the recently concluded All-India Inter-University Cycling Championship in Ludhiana.
The 22 year old cyclist, who has been awarded with the best sportsperson of the year by SGGS College, Sector 26i, is now aiming a gold for his country in the upcoming Commonwealth Games to be help in New Delhi, next year.
“I am aiming at cracking the world record of England’s Brad Migor who timed 4 minute 11 seconds in the 4 km individual pursuit,” says the ace cyclist who got his berth in the camp of the Commonwealth Games 2010 to be held in Delhi. “Winning a gold will be a dream come true for me”, opines the national champion.
Jagdeep, a BA final student of SGGS College, Sector 26, has been training in NIS, Patiala, under the centre of excellence (CoE) programme since 2003. “During the NIS training programme, I have been working on my stamina and have improved my timings in the individual pursuit event now,” says the All-India Inter-University gold medallist.
Jagdeep can be termed as gold of the individual pursuit event, as he has won gold (24) in the national cycling championships in which he had to satisfy with 6 silver and a bronze.
It will be the second time that Jagdeep will be donning the national colour. Earlier, he played for India in the Sultan Ajlan Shah Asia Cup where Indian team attained the sixth place.
“We can do better and could have done better, if we are provided with the equipment. Due to the less number of velodrome in India and lack of other facilities in the sports, a player has to shuffle from one place to another just for practice. And some even participate in the national championships without the required practice,” acknowledges 21-year-old cyclist.
Being awarded as the best sportsperson for three consecutive years in the All India Inter-college championships, Jagdeep terms himself as a specialist in individual pursuit. The national champions, who started his cycling career in 2003, had won his first gold in year 2004.
Being inspired from the local cyclists, Japdeep backs his coach Mahesh Kumar Ranga for his success. The local lad is under the Centre of Excellence scheme started by the Sports Authority of India (SAI) for the last six years.
Currently, he has struck a new record of clocking 5 minute 9 seconds in the 4 km individual pursuit during the recently concluded All-India Inter-University Cycling Championship in Ludhiana.
The 22 year old cyclist, who has been awarded with the best sportsperson of the year by SGGS College, Sector 26i, is now aiming a gold for his country in the upcoming Commonwealth Games to be help in New Delhi, next year.
“I am aiming at cracking the world record of England’s Brad Migor who timed 4 minute 11 seconds in the 4 km individual pursuit,” says the ace cyclist who got his berth in the camp of the Commonwealth Games 2010 to be held in Delhi. “Winning a gold will be a dream come true for me”, opines the national champion.
Jagdeep, a BA final student of SGGS College, Sector 26, has been training in NIS, Patiala, under the centre of excellence (CoE) programme since 2003. “During the NIS training programme, I have been working on my stamina and have improved my timings in the individual pursuit event now,” says the All-India Inter-University gold medallist.
Jagdeep can be termed as gold of the individual pursuit event, as he has won gold (24) in the national cycling championships in which he had to satisfy with 6 silver and a bronze.
It will be the second time that Jagdeep will be donning the national colour. Earlier, he played for India in the Sultan Ajlan Shah Asia Cup where Indian team attained the sixth place.
“We can do better and could have done better, if we are provided with the equipment. Due to the less number of velodrome in India and lack of other facilities in the sports, a player has to shuffle from one place to another just for practice. And some even participate in the national championships without the required practice,” acknowledges 21-year-old cyclist.
Being awarded as the best sportsperson for three consecutive years in the All India Inter-college championships, Jagdeep terms himself as a specialist in individual pursuit. The national champions, who started his cycling career in 2003, had won his first gold in year 2004.
Being inspired from the local cyclists, Japdeep backs his coach Mahesh Kumar Ranga for his success. The local lad is under the Centre of Excellence scheme started by the Sports Authority of India (SAI) for the last six years.
Choosing a Style of Alloy Wheel
When someone decides to purchase a set of alloy wheels for their vehicle it is generally for two particular reasons. First of all, because alloy wheels are lighter than the traditional steel wheel, they reduce the ’unsprung weight’ of the wheel. This is the weight of the wheel, tyre, brake (if mounted within the tyre), spindles, bearings and a portion of the half shafts, springs and suspension links. By reducing these weight things like acceleration, braking and fuel economy can be improved.But by far and away the main reason that people choose to upgrade their wheels, is because they look so much better than a steel wheel, even if it has a fancy hub cap on it.There are some technical issues that need to be considered when buying new wheels. These include the pitch circle diameter, number of bolts, offset, spigot size and the overall width of wheel and tyre together. So you may find that you options are limited to certain styles and sizes straight away.What follows is by no means a definitive guide to what you should and should not go for, but it is based on what is generally popular to go for based on your type of vehicle.The most popular styles of alloy wheels are the five and six spoke designs and are probably the most common style you will see when browsing for wheels. They are very versatile and can suit almost any type of vehicle, but it is probably best to select wider styled spokes on a wheel with a larger diameter. And it’s probably a good idea to go for a smoother, more rounded design on your standard family saloon, because the fancier patterns can look a little over the top on these types of vehicle.If you have a larger, sports or executive vehicle, you might like to consider a twin of multi-spoke design. These sorts of vehicles have a lot more character and are able to take these types of wheels without having their look dominated by them.Other styles are available, including ones that have the bolts exposed; these are usually multi-spoke wheels and can look like they came from a rally car. In the past there have even been three spoke alloy wheels, but these are few and far between and are probably best left in the past along with mullet haircuts and platform shoes. You will also need to make a decision on the type of finish you want. Alloy wheels come in three main finishes or coatings:PAINT , most commonly used coating alloy wheels. It usually consists of three layers. The first layer is a primer coat to cover the bare base metal of the alloy. The primer also provides a perfect layer for the second layer of base or colour coat. The third layer consists of a clear coat or lacquer, for shine and protection, over the whole wheel.
Painted alloy wheels can come in any colours. The main colours are silver, white, gold and anthracite grey.
STAINLESS STEEL, sometimes now used to coat the outer lip on alloy wheels. Stainless Steel is stronger than alloy which means that the outer lip is tougher and can with stand more abuse than normal alloy. The Stainless Steel also keeps its shine longer and can be cleaned more easily.CHROME, which tends to be cheaper, and offers a brighter shine. Another consideration is whether the brakes are going to be visible. The less spokes there are, or the thinner they are, the more you are going to able to see the brakes behind the wheel. If you have a nice set of sports brakes, this may even be a desirable situation, however if your brakes are a bit old and worn out, you might want to consider upgrading them at the same time. Ultimately the decision is yours what style you go for, but if you put a set of 3 spoke wheels on your Jag, don’t expect me to get in your car!
Painted alloy wheels can come in any colours. The main colours are silver, white, gold and anthracite grey.
STAINLESS STEEL, sometimes now used to coat the outer lip on alloy wheels. Stainless Steel is stronger than alloy which means that the outer lip is tougher and can with stand more abuse than normal alloy. The Stainless Steel also keeps its shine longer and can be cleaned more easily.CHROME, which tends to be cheaper, and offers a brighter shine. Another consideration is whether the brakes are going to be visible. The less spokes there are, or the thinner they are, the more you are going to able to see the brakes behind the wheel. If you have a nice set of sports brakes, this may even be a desirable situation, however if your brakes are a bit old and worn out, you might want to consider upgrading them at the same time. Ultimately the decision is yours what style you go for, but if you put a set of 3 spoke wheels on your Jag, don’t expect me to get in your car!
Monday, April 6, 2009
CITY AUTO INDUSTRY
A place to walk in and drive outChandigarh Car Bazaar
Car buyers never had it so good, especially those on the lookout for second hand models. With the economy showing no sign of improvement and the price war between the key players in the car segment intensifying, it is finally the consumer who is having a small laugh.
Sudarshan Singh of Yamunagar, who had come to the Sector 7 car bazaar in a bus, was hoping to drive back in Maruti 800, 1991 model, for a mere Rs 60,000. “This is the time the second hand car buyers have their catch. The prices of almost all makes have come down by one-third,” he says. “I have already taken test drives in a couple of cars and will soon decide which one to buy.”
A majority of the 25 dealers in the car bazaar which operates only on Sundays are of the view that the cut in the prices of new cars has had a direct effect on the second hand car market. Every Sunday this market is abuzz with activity when the showrooms are closed. Over 500 spruced up cars of various makes and models are lined up in the parking lot, vying for the attention of prospective buyers who, egged on by the urge for social recognition and restrained by financial constraints, flock around them.
Chiranji Lal who has a business in Shimla had come hoping to buy a Ford Fiesta for less then Rs 2,00,000. “I can’t afford a new one and am looking for a Fiesta in good condition. Cars in this market can be bought for affordable prices.”
The dealers in the market, which has been in place since 1978, play the middleman between the seller and the buyer and are responsible for the whole transaction including the transfer of papers. “We charge two per cent commission from both the parties,” says a prominent dealer in the market. The dealers had to pay a weekly rent of Rs 200 to the Estate Office before it came under the Municipal Corporation. “The Corporation has now exempted us from paying the rent,” says another dealer.
According to the dealers, the ‘small Segment Cars’ is the most sought after brand. However, the others in demand are the Esteem, Ford Ikon, Tata Safari, Honda City-Civic, Lancer and the Skoda. Whereas the Maruti 800, 1996 and 2001 models, are priced between Rs 50,000 to 1 lakh , the Esteem 1996 VX model can be had for Rs 80,000, Skoda 2005 is available for anything between 5 to 5.75 lakh.
Sanjay Sharma and Ajay Sharma — both businessmen — were looking for a Skoda 2007 model. “We are willing to pay Rs 6 lakh provided the car is in good condition,” they said, adding that they would only buy a car with Chandigarh registration. “You can’t be sure of cars from outside the city.”
The seller is the worst affected by the slash in the prices of second hand cars. Sellers say that the resale value of cars is low. “People want to buy them cheap. Otherwise they normally prefer to buy new models,” says Ravinder Singh, a Panchkula-based businessmen.
Harvinder Singh was in the car bazaar to sell his Esteem but had not found a buyer willing to pay Rs 2 lakh. “Last Sunday also I had brought my car to the market but nobody offered the amount. I think the only way to sell it will be to further reduce the price,” he said adding, that he had booked a Mitsubishi Lancer and required money to buy it.
Car dealers point out that the drop in prices has actually caused a slump in the market. Few sellers are willing to sell their cars at throwaway prices. “People prefer to keep the cars with them rather than sell them for a mere, say Rs 60,000. Similarly, the buyers are reluctant to pay more for they feel buying a new car is a better deal than spending a fortune on a second hand car,” explains Mr Rajesh , a dealer.
One of the oldest dealers in the market, says he is able to make around 10 deals every Sunday. He says the method of the transactions in the bazaar is foolproof. To ensure that the car being sold is not a stolen one, the dealers explain that they only deal with sellers who are either known to them personally or whose identity is established. “If the seller is from outside the city we ask them to bring somebody who can stand surety for them and after verifying all the facts we make the deal,” he adds.
Buyers come from far off places like Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana and even Rajasthan. The reason cited by the dealers is that since most of the cars sold here are from Chandigarh itself, these are generally in good condition because the roads in the city are good.
How does a buyer ensure that the car he is buying is in good condition? Bahadur Singh, a driver, who had come to the car bazaar along with his boss says, “I have come here because my boss doesn’t know much about cars. The best way is to inspect the car properly. See that its pickup is good. The engine is in proper working order and also find out whether the car has been repaired or not.
Some buyers bring mechanics with them to ensure that they are not cheated. The transactions in the market are done very fast. The buyer gets delivery of the vehicle the same day. However, the complete transfer of papers and other formalities may take up to 10 days. If the car being sold is from outside the city, then the seller is required to get a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the registration authority concerned.
Some dealers, apart from playing the middleman, also buy cars through newspaper advertisements and then display these in the bazaar. “This involves a lot of risk since the prices of these cars are generally high and it becomes difficult to get buyers for them,” says a dealer. “Moreover, we have to spend money on doing up the car before it can be sold,” he adds.
The dealers issue to the buyer a delivery letter on the day of the transaction which means that from that day onwards the dealer is accountable for any fraud detected thereafter.
The dealers opine that business is never good in the months of March and April. “Buyers of second hand cars include farmers and employees. Where as the former are busy with the crops, the latter have to spend money on the admission of their children during these months”.
Dealers also attribute the slump in the market to the easy financing schemes available. People prefer to buy new cars since credit is easily available. The dealers have formed this association to ensure their credibility. The transactions in the bazaar are generally fair but whenever there is any fraud it is the dealer who suffers.
Car buyers never had it so good, especially those on the lookout for second hand models. With the economy showing no sign of improvement and the price war between the key players in the car segment intensifying, it is finally the consumer who is having a small laugh.
Sudarshan Singh of Yamunagar, who had come to the Sector 7 car bazaar in a bus, was hoping to drive back in Maruti 800, 1991 model, for a mere Rs 60,000. “This is the time the second hand car buyers have their catch. The prices of almost all makes have come down by one-third,” he says. “I have already taken test drives in a couple of cars and will soon decide which one to buy.”
A majority of the 25 dealers in the car bazaar which operates only on Sundays are of the view that the cut in the prices of new cars has had a direct effect on the second hand car market. Every Sunday this market is abuzz with activity when the showrooms are closed. Over 500 spruced up cars of various makes and models are lined up in the parking lot, vying for the attention of prospective buyers who, egged on by the urge for social recognition and restrained by financial constraints, flock around them.
Chiranji Lal who has a business in Shimla had come hoping to buy a Ford Fiesta for less then Rs 2,00,000. “I can’t afford a new one and am looking for a Fiesta in good condition. Cars in this market can be bought for affordable prices.”
The dealers in the market, which has been in place since 1978, play the middleman between the seller and the buyer and are responsible for the whole transaction including the transfer of papers. “We charge two per cent commission from both the parties,” says a prominent dealer in the market. The dealers had to pay a weekly rent of Rs 200 to the Estate Office before it came under the Municipal Corporation. “The Corporation has now exempted us from paying the rent,” says another dealer.
According to the dealers, the ‘small Segment Cars’ is the most sought after brand. However, the others in demand are the Esteem, Ford Ikon, Tata Safari, Honda City-Civic, Lancer and the Skoda. Whereas the Maruti 800, 1996 and 2001 models, are priced between Rs 50,000 to 1 lakh , the Esteem 1996 VX model can be had for Rs 80,000, Skoda 2005 is available for anything between 5 to 5.75 lakh.
Sanjay Sharma and Ajay Sharma — both businessmen — were looking for a Skoda 2007 model. “We are willing to pay Rs 6 lakh provided the car is in good condition,” they said, adding that they would only buy a car with Chandigarh registration. “You can’t be sure of cars from outside the city.”
The seller is the worst affected by the slash in the prices of second hand cars. Sellers say that the resale value of cars is low. “People want to buy them cheap. Otherwise they normally prefer to buy new models,” says Ravinder Singh, a Panchkula-based businessmen.
Harvinder Singh was in the car bazaar to sell his Esteem but had not found a buyer willing to pay Rs 2 lakh. “Last Sunday also I had brought my car to the market but nobody offered the amount. I think the only way to sell it will be to further reduce the price,” he said adding, that he had booked a Mitsubishi Lancer and required money to buy it.
Car dealers point out that the drop in prices has actually caused a slump in the market. Few sellers are willing to sell their cars at throwaway prices. “People prefer to keep the cars with them rather than sell them for a mere, say Rs 60,000. Similarly, the buyers are reluctant to pay more for they feel buying a new car is a better deal than spending a fortune on a second hand car,” explains Mr Rajesh , a dealer.
One of the oldest dealers in the market, says he is able to make around 10 deals every Sunday. He says the method of the transactions in the bazaar is foolproof. To ensure that the car being sold is not a stolen one, the dealers explain that they only deal with sellers who are either known to them personally or whose identity is established. “If the seller is from outside the city we ask them to bring somebody who can stand surety for them and after verifying all the facts we make the deal,” he adds.
Buyers come from far off places like Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana and even Rajasthan. The reason cited by the dealers is that since most of the cars sold here are from Chandigarh itself, these are generally in good condition because the roads in the city are good.
How does a buyer ensure that the car he is buying is in good condition? Bahadur Singh, a driver, who had come to the car bazaar along with his boss says, “I have come here because my boss doesn’t know much about cars. The best way is to inspect the car properly. See that its pickup is good. The engine is in proper working order and also find out whether the car has been repaired or not.
Some buyers bring mechanics with them to ensure that they are not cheated. The transactions in the market are done very fast. The buyer gets delivery of the vehicle the same day. However, the complete transfer of papers and other formalities may take up to 10 days. If the car being sold is from outside the city, then the seller is required to get a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the registration authority concerned.
Some dealers, apart from playing the middleman, also buy cars through newspaper advertisements and then display these in the bazaar. “This involves a lot of risk since the prices of these cars are generally high and it becomes difficult to get buyers for them,” says a dealer. “Moreover, we have to spend money on doing up the car before it can be sold,” he adds.
The dealers issue to the buyer a delivery letter on the day of the transaction which means that from that day onwards the dealer is accountable for any fraud detected thereafter.
The dealers opine that business is never good in the months of March and April. “Buyers of second hand cars include farmers and employees. Where as the former are busy with the crops, the latter have to spend money on the admission of their children during these months”.
Dealers also attribute the slump in the market to the easy financing schemes available. People prefer to buy new cars since credit is easily available. The dealers have formed this association to ensure their credibility. The transactions in the bazaar are generally fair but whenever there is any fraud it is the dealer who suffers.
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