Bajaj Auto, the Chakan based two-wheeler giant is fresh off a successful launch of its new Avenger range of leisure cruisers. Meanwhile, it's Discover range of executive commuter motorcycles seems to have undergone a product rationalization exercise. While the earlier Discover line-up consisted of six models, three of them, viz: Discover 100 & 100 M along with the Discover 125 M have been given a quiet burial. Thus, as present, only the Discover 125 along with the Discover 150 S and 150 Fcan be seen on the site.
Bajaj has made a name of sorts for coming out with incremental cubic-capacity engine variants with minor styling changes across its entire product and model range. However, not everything works and the manufacturer does give the sales duds a quite burial. The Discover range of executive commuters has been no different. Over the years, it has seen power-plants ranging from 92cc to 135cc and expanding to a 150cc in recent years.
The Discover range did get of to a strong start when first introduced to the masses back in 2003. However, the Chakan based manufacturers constant addition and chopping of models from the lineup have proved to be quite the challenge in getting accepted by customers and the after-sales support network. Multiple variants on the same platform too have led to considerable confusion and gaps in the supply of spares.
While Bajaj Auto may have their own rationale in the constant introduction and axing of models, it has played havoc in the minds of customers. Apart from struggling with spares, discontinued models fare poorly in the resale market. While things may have been alright with the premium, Pulsar range, in a price conscious segment where the Discover operates, it is going to be quite a touch challenge. Add to this an ever strengthening competition and Bajaj may very well be staring at a huge problem on its hands.
While change is good, a fair bit of stability too is desirable and in Bajaj's case, could be needed badly too.
Bajaj has made a name of sorts for coming out with incremental cubic-capacity engine variants with minor styling changes across its entire product and model range. However, not everything works and the manufacturer does give the sales duds a quite burial. The Discover range of executive commuters has been no different. Over the years, it has seen power-plants ranging from 92cc to 135cc and expanding to a 150cc in recent years.
The Discover range did get of to a strong start when first introduced to the masses back in 2003. However, the Chakan based manufacturers constant addition and chopping of models from the lineup have proved to be quite the challenge in getting accepted by customers and the after-sales support network. Multiple variants on the same platform too have led to considerable confusion and gaps in the supply of spares.
While Bajaj Auto may have their own rationale in the constant introduction and axing of models, it has played havoc in the minds of customers. Apart from struggling with spares, discontinued models fare poorly in the resale market. While things may have been alright with the premium, Pulsar range, in a price conscious segment where the Discover operates, it is going to be quite a touch challenge. Add to this an ever strengthening competition and Bajaj may very well be staring at a huge problem on its hands.
While change is good, a fair bit of stability too is desirable and in Bajaj's case, could be needed badly too.
Source : MotorOctane