Bajaj Auto to rev up demand for commuter bikes, launches Platina 110 ABS at Rs 72,224

Platina 110 ABS first motorcycle in entry level 100-110cc category to get life-saving anti-lock braking system; with its sales in this mass-market segment down 23% YoY, Bajaj Auto keen to rev up demand.

20 Dec 2022 | 4746 Views | By Autocar Pro News Desk

Bajaj Auto has launched the new Platina 110 ABS with a segment-first Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Given the massive size of the entry level commuter segment of motorcycles, the introduction of ABS in this category is an important step in enhancing road safety in India.

The new ABS-equipped Platina 110 enhances safety by reducing braking distance and providing better handling and stability in any challenging condition and facilitates complete control in panic-braking situations.

Other product highlights include comfortable seats, longer front and rear suspension, headlights with DRLs and a new digital speedometer with ABS indicator, gear indicator and gear guidance features.

The Platina 110 ABS, priced at Rs 72,224 (ex-showroom Delhi), is powered by the proven 115.45cc engine that develops maximum power of 8.6hp at 7000rpm and torque of 9.81 Nm at 5000rpm. 

Sarang Kanade – President, Motorcycles – Bajaj Auto said, “India accounts for highest road deaths across the world with two-wheelers accounting for 45% of these accidents. Our understanding of the Indian consumer suggests that commuter riders face panic braking scenarios frequently. With the new Platina 110 ABS, we want to offer riders complete control in unforeseen braking scenarios. We are confident that two-wheeler riders who face difficult riding situations would consider the Platina 110 ABS to keep themselves and their loved ones safe with the best-in-segment braking technology.”

Entry-level bike sales down 23% YoY
In the first eight months of FY2023, Bajaj Auto has sold a total of 12,42,013 motorcycles, up 6.12% (April-November 2021: 11,70,316 units). Of this total, its entry-level bikes – CT110X, Platina 100 and Platina 110) account for 453,133 units or 36%; a year ago, their contribution was 50.41% – 590,056 out of 11,70,316 motorcycles, which indicates a slowdown in demand and also impacting overall motorcycle volume sales.

With its April-November 2022 sales of 453,133 units in the 100-110cc commuter bike segment down 23% year on year (April-November 2021: 590,056 units), Bajaj Auto would be looking to rev up demand in this affordable, mass-market bike category. An ABS-equipped Platina, which offers the twin benefits of safety and fuel economy, is one way of giving its entry-level motorcycle a new sales boost.

(Additional inputs by Ajit Dalvi)

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