INS Vikrant lives on as Bajaj uses metal from naval ship in new motorcycle

Bajaj Auto has named its upcoming brand of motorcycle as “V” to honour India’s first and most celebrated aircraft carrier INS Vikrant. Bajaj’s new brand is set to be unveiled on Monday, February 1.

The INS Vikrant was commissioned as the first aircraft carrier of Indian Navy in 1961. After years of service, she was decommissioned in January 1997 and served as a museum till 2012. In November 2014, the aircraft carrier was dismantled and sold as scrap metal. Bajaj Auto purchased the Vikrant metal and processed it to be a part of its new brand. The new bike will therefore preserve a significant piece of Indian Military history. 

Bajaj has released a teaser that reveals a silhouette of a sporty motorcycle. The bikes are set to receive a muscular design, which includes a sculpted tank and a sporty rear. However, the bike is aimed at a more consevative audience as is evident from the details. It is equipped with an air-cooled engine and packs a kick starter as well. Suspension duties will be handled by telescopic forks up front, and twin shocks at the rear. Equipped with disc brakes, the range also promises to have a convenient low saddle height, which will make it easy for shorter riders.

Eric Vas, president (motorcycle business), Bajaj Auto, said “For decades, the INS Vikrant has been celebrated as the pride of our country and is synonymous with Indian military capabilities and power projection. We are proud that Bajaj Auto is playing a role in keeping the legacy of India’s first aircraft carrier alive.”

He further added, “For the warship, the name Vikrant was taken from the Sanskrit word Vikrānta meaning "stepping beyond", i.e. "courageous" or "bold".  These qualities also form the essence of our new brand. We are confident that the bike will carry the spirit and legacy of INS Vikrant forward and become one of the most path-breaking motorcycles,  that customers will witness this year.”