| It uses a high performance 37 kW AC induction motor powering the front wheels and Sodium Nickel Chloride batteries instead of the conventional lead acid batteries. |
| The concept also boasts four-wheel independent suspension and a regenerative, hydraulic braking system. It also has a touch screen display for dashboard functions and integrates GPS navigation, GPRS modem and MP3 music as well. Fantastic stuff, when do we get to drive it? |
| Avenging angel |
| They've finally done it. Rumours about Bajaj plonking the feisty engine from the Pulsar 180 DTSi into the Eliminator had been doing the rounds for a while, and we can now confirm that they're true. |
| The new bike, called the Avenger, looks virtually identical to the machine it replaces, with Eliminator-spec mirrors, meters, lights, chrome console, brakes and wheels. The Pulsar engine's the same in terms of power output, only it's been tuned for more bottom-end torque in keeping with the cruiser character. |
| Given that the Avenger is about 30 kg heavier than the Pulsar, there's a drop in outright performance, but the increased torque makes for relaxed riding. Wring the throttle open and you'll see 115 kph, but it's happiest cruising at 85 kph. |
| The swingarm has been extended by 15mm, ride height has been marginally raised and suspension travel has been increased at both ends. None of these changes have affected the bike's enjoyable handling and it will swing confidently into corners, holding its line well. |
| The exhaust note is a bit louder, but sounds quite business-like and isn't distracting. The most significant change is in its price, though "� at an estimated Rs 63,000 (ex-showroom) it's Rs 30,000 cheaper than the Elim, Rs 20,000 less than the Enfield Thunderbird and only Rs 4,000 more than the Yamaha Enticer. The best-value cruiser out there? You bet. |
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