It is with great fervour that Bajaj Auto has re-launched its legendary CT100 motorcycle in the Indian motorcycle market. It’s not just any comeback — it’s a savvy play to reclaim the affections of economy-minded commuter riders who don’t want to compromise style. The new-look CT100 comes in an aggressive design and claims an impressive fuel economy of 92 KMPL reiterating its claim to being the most fuel-efficient motorcycle in its segment.
The Resurrection of a Legend
The Bajaj CT100 was, for long, THE common man’s commuter in India, a workhorse that a few million persons relied upon for their daily commute. Showrooms with no BS, we mean. Now, as it emerges again into the spotlight, there’s nostalgia in the air, as well as curiosity about what’s changed and what of the original bike’s DNA remains.
“This is what we were waiting for,” says Sanjay Kumar, who has been a Bajaj customer for long in Pune. “My first bike was a CT100, në asgjë nuk e kam gasitur të besueshme dhe të kursyeshëm sa ajo kohë.
The time of this relaunch couldn’t be more auspicious. Given today’s constant wobble in fuel prices and increased awareness of the environmental impact of gas consumption, it sounds like the market is ready for a car that caters to both the pocketbook and the planet. Bajaj appears to have read the room perfectly.
A Head-Turning Design Evolution
No more ho-hum looking budget bikes here. The new CT100 is smashing this typecast with its edgy restyle that adds a sporting dimension to the bike while still keeping the iconic CT100 style.
The new-look model gets crisper lines, edgier graphics, and a color palette that will resonate with younger riders without turning off the bike’s established constituency. The seat has a new contour and has been repositioned for more comfortable long-range two-up and solo rides, while the handlebar is a touch lower and closer to the seat for improved ergonomics.
“We wanted to make something that had presence when parked near a university or office,” says Rajiv Bajaj, the managing director of Bajaj Auto. “Economy doesn’t necessarily have to look economical.”
The headlamp cluster is now LED, providing the bike a premium feel which was not there in the previous model. The instrumentation is still analog to keep costs down, but it’s a new design that promises better readablitity in different light conditions.
What’s even more impressive, is how these aesthetic refinements haven’t detracted from the utilitarian nature of the bike. The rubberised grab rail for those at the back remains and that luggage carrier at the back is strong enough for your groceries or rucksack.
Engine Configuration: A Stunner in Engineering: 92 Kmpl, yes you read it right – A Stunning Milestone
That CT100 does indeed get a couple of styling spruce-ups to make it more eye-catching, but it’s the under-the-skin changes that really make this relaunch special. The 92 km/l fuel-efficiency claim is not just a marketing doctor-up, but a fine effort at engineering.
The 99.27cc single-cylinder, air-cooled motor has been specifically tuned to perform well at low and mid-range RPMs, which is where the majority of city riding takes place. For emphasizing on usage cycles rather than max figures, it seems, Bajaj have a clear idea of its target customer’s convenience requirement.
Power is at a minimal 7.9 bhp and 8.1 Nm of twist – numbers which might not impress enthusiasts looking to quench their need for speed but perfectly fine for darting through the crowded confines of city streets while engaging in the occasional highway run. The 4-speed transmission is responsive and easy to use for entry riders.
What is truly admirable is how the engineers at Bajaj have been able to achieve this stellar mileage figure without using complicated technology that would have escalated the costs. The gains are realized from making the current designs work better – cutting internal losses, making better use of the combustion, fettling the carbs.
“We’ve simply taken what has worked and made it work better,” says Amit Nandi, the president of Bajaj Auto’s motorcycle business. “Our R&D team spent months to experiment with different layouts to reach the golden ratio of performance and economy.
The bike also has a new SNS (Spring in Spring) rear suspension set-up that does a better job of soaking up the road than the previous generation’s setup. At the same time, this makes for a more comfortable ride for the rider without compromising the tire’s contact with the road, which helps to keep fuel economy high by reducing energy loss.
Market Positioning and Target Market
The CT100 is a calculated re-entry into the motorycle industry. In an age where power numbers take centrestage along with technological breakthroughs with every other premium motorcycle launch, there’s nothing that can beat the dominion of the volume segment – which also includes the mass-market commuting bikes who value their running cost more than their numbers, yet alone the technology.
The idea is to cater to a mass market still dependent on a two-wheeler for daily commute, chiefly folks from the working class. The refreshed look and enhanced specs also makes it ideal for students and new bike riders who might be swayed by more expensive offerings.
“For someone who does 30-40 km daily commute, this bike makes a lot of sense,” says automotive analyst Priya Sharma. “The startup cost is very reasonable, and ongoing costs are very low due to major fuel economy.
Bajaj has aligned its pricing policy to this positioning. The CT100 is offered at a price in the reach of a broad spectrum of people, and with finance facilities for monthly costs, which would be similar to what many spend on public transport.
What’s intriguing though is that Bajaj isn’t promoting the CT100 just as a cheap option, but as the smart one. The marketing copy leans heavily on value, not affordability alone, indicating that selecting the CT100 is a financially sound investment, no matter your spending limits.
Competition and Differentiation
India’s entry-level motorcycle segment is a heavily contested and fought fought with giants like Hero MotoCorp, TVS and Honda, which offer potent products. What differentiates the CT100 in this jam-packed marketplace is its singular focus on delivering tremendous mileage without skimping excessively on the basics.
Hero’s Splendor which has been the typical benchmark in this segment delivers a little more power but cannot beat CT100’s efficiency numbers. TVS Sport is stylish, but more expensive. Honda’s CD110 Dream is better refined and smoother, but it lacks the ruggedness the CT100 is synonymous with.
“Every contender has its merits, but nobody else comes with this combined package of budget, efficiency, and now looks, like the CT100 does,” motorcycle journalist Rahul Desai says. Bajaj has pinpointed the pain points of the penny-pinching rider and gone about it in a methodical manner.
Two, after-sales service is another leg where Bajaj hopes to stand out. The country has over 4,000 service centers spread across its terrain (including the countryside), therefore, CT100 customers do not have to travel miles, to get their bikes serviced or fixed. The components are intended to be both affordable and easily-found, to ensure that the T-90 remains affordable over the life of the bike.
Performance and user experience
Theory and specs are only part of the picture. To get a sense of how the CT100 stacks up in typical day-to-day riding, I caught up with a few riders who are recent new CT100 owners.
Mahesh Patil, a postman from Mumbai, commuting around 70km a day, says, “I have been using the new CT100 for three weeks now and I get around 85-90 kmpl in real conditions – with traffic and an occasional pillion. It’s about 15% higher than my old bike.”
This real world figure is, of course, slightly less than the claim of 92 kmpl and is very good when you getting it in such city situations. Owners love the bike’s stability with a full load and that it can slip through tight spaces in traffic.
“The engine is a lot smoother than I’d figured for the price,” says college student Ankit Shah. “We get very little vibration while cruising at about 60-70 kmph on highways, and long rides feel absolutely easy.
Most common compliments attributed to the improved suspension system, most particularly from riders who frequently ride over rough roads. The seat comfort, though better than with previous generations, continues to receive mixed reviews for a ride that lasts longer than an hour, which is perhaps an unavoidable trade-off (given the bike’s price point).
Specs and Features
Moving to the technical side of things however, the CT100 successfully strikes that balance between simplicity and functionality. Its 99.27cc engine is air cooled and equipped with the CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) system which means a quick and easy start-up in all weather. The 10.5-litre fuel tank gives it a possible theoretical range of more than 900km per fill, but in practical terms you’re looking at more like 800km.
Wheels are 17 inch, with tubeless tires — a good update that makes flat tires far less problematic. Braking is handled by 110mm drum brakes on both ends which are sufficient considering the weight and the speed ability of the bike. Disc brakes would have been a nice touch but their exclusion helps keep the price down.
100mm of ground clearance is plenty for dealing with most of Indian roads, including speed breakers and running through ankle deep water during monsoons. Add that the weight of the bike is only 115 kilograms, so, also physically smaller riders will be able to handle or push the bike easily.
One of the interesting functions set to smooth the ride is the SNS (Spring in Spring) rear suspension, which is supposed to offer a good trade-off between comfort and carrying capability. This system uses two springs, of different rates, that work in tandem: one, softer spring to handle “light” loads, and a second stiffer spring for “heavy” loads on the bike.
Value Additions and Ecosystem
Apart from the bike itself, Bajaj has created an ecosystem around CT100 which makes it more attractive for the potential buyer. That includes a mobile app which allows owners to manage maintenance reminders, locate service centers near them and track fuel economy.
In addition, the company has a loyalty program that allows CT100 owners to accumulate points for regular servicing that can be claimed for accessories or service discounts. This approach fosters brand loyalty and promotes proper maintenance, which extends the life of the bike.
The insurance costs for the CT100 are the cheapest in the segment, adding to the low cost of ownership. Bajaj has collaborated with various insurance companies to provide customized options, which not only gives you the mandatory third-party insurance but also comprehensive insurance at affordable rates.
The CT100 has a strong accessories market, including official Bajaj offerings and also bike accessories of third party manufacturers. From common-sense add-ons like luggage boxes and mobile phone straps to aesthetic extras like custom seat covers and decal kits, you can make your new scooter reflect your personality without spending the earth.
Impacts on the Environment and Society
Performance and energy efficiencyNot only is the CT100 technically not an eco-friendly vehicle, but it is also no advertised as such, however its incredible fuel efficiency does leave less of a carbon footprint than other less efficient machines. In a nation with increasing urban air pollution, the mainstreaming of more fuel-efficient vehicles can have an impact.
The affordability of the bike also has social consequences. Using a private automobile is to many people a quantum jump in mobility, in their ability to manage time, and in their ability to go out and get a good job. With relatively low entry barrier, bajaj gives the means for social mobility, both physical and metaphorically speaking.
“A decent bike like the CT100 and it’s pretty easy to change lives,” says social researcher Dr. Ananya Singh. “It could cut a commute of hours to a matter of minutes, help people get to jobs faster and open up the underserved parts of our cities to economic opportunity for everyone,” she continued, “even all those young horse-playin’, basketball bouncin’ kids I love so much,” a reference to gangs of children who play basketball in her neighborhood.
Future developments and prospects
In the above clip, you will hear what A J Ravindran of TVS had to say about the CT100B and the CT100, but the factually the CT100 represents much improvement beyond them, but in a quickly evolving world of motorcycles, fuelled by electrification of motorcycles as well, where does it stand? Asked about future plans, Bajaj officials remain tight-lipped but indicate that the company is researching alternative powertrains that will continue to deliver the CT100’s core attributes—economy and reliability.
“We are doing a lot of work on future concepts vis-à-vis electric vehicles, both in motorcycle and scooter segments,” said Roy.Kothari adds that the coming five years could see hybrid or electric versions of bikes like the CT100 being launched.“The problems of charging infrastructure and cost of acquisition continue to be the main hindrances in India,” he adds.
Let’s block ads! (Why?)Or you may want to hop on over and take a quick cool down withTrendingCars: For now, however, the conventional internal combustion engine still makes sense for the CT100’s target customer, especially in rural and semi-urban markets where electricity supply can be erratic and service networks for electric vehicles are still not mature.
A Returning Companion Just in the Nick of Time
The Bajaj CT100 is re-launched at the right time, with a sporty new look combined with segment-best fuel efficiency. With the way the economy is and people becoming more and more concious about how we are exploiting our enviroment, the market is becoming more open to the basics (value) regardless of extras.
The thing that’s most impressive about this relaunch is how Bajaj has been able to develop the product without losing the character of the original. The CT100 is still the same old (and good) affordable commuter bike, but one that is now fixed to solve the latest woes of city commuters.
The 92 kmpl fuel mileage figure will most definitely be the highlighter and why not. In an environment with fluctuating fuel prices, that kind of efficiency is not just a monetary savings, but peace of mind. Together with the updated looks that inject a bit of pride to do-the-job, this new CT100 is hard to pass up.
Because for the millions of Indians who’re using two-wheelers not as a luxury but as part of a daily grind, the CT100’s return is not just another product launch, but the reincarnation of a trusted friend, only this time it’s better prepared to face the rigours of their daily commute.
Aha! Relaunched The CT100 AND AS THE DUST CLEARS… The dust has at last SETTLED on THE ARRIVAL OF SUCH A SILLY REBRAND and one thing can now be plainly seen: Bajaj could not have revived the old warhorse without a darned good reason for Bajaj’s revival of said mothballed mule reflects not so much a desire to write the CV of history itself but rather the discovery that the need for affordable, efficient mobility in the developing world both remains and – tragically – flies in the face of the liberal:Plural dream of traffic-free urban enclaves and ice-cold lakes on baking highways. There’s plenty of progress to come for this humble but ambitious commuter.
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