2wheels
Community Manager
Readers' choice motorcycle of the year - 373cc, 43 HP, 35 Nm, ABS, Metzeler tyres, trellis frame et all at just Rs. 2.14 lakhs (on-road, Mumbai). 0-100 km/hr takes just 5.6 seconds while 0-130 km/hr comes up in a shade under 11 seconds, top speed is 170 km/hr. Little doubt than why the Duke 390 emerged as the clear winner in this category. It's not only a rocket in a straight-line but very well balanced in the corners with excellent brakes to boot.
Motorcycle of the year - We all have pre-conceived notions about Royal Enfields but the Continental GT will change that. While it's not a very quick bike, it's surprisingly sure-footed around corners and can make you have fun without getting intimated. An all new platform with only the engine not being all new shows the effort by the company in developing this cafe racer. Not to forget, the styling is drop dead gorgeous and there is top drawer hardware with Pirelli tyres, Paioli shocks and Brembo brakes.
Scooter of the year - The TVS Jupiter is no doubt the best 110cc scooter in the Indian market and the company has done a very good job in developing it. The Jupiter offers very good dynamics and is loaded with features. It also looks modern and rides well. While it retains the engine from the Wego, TVS has modified the 110cc powertrain to offer smoother performance and the Jupiter delivers. It thus outclasses the market leader making it look a clear generation old.
Premium motorcycle of the year - Kawasaki has been on a roll in 2013. It has launched 5 new products in the Indian market and the ZX-10R is easily a bike you will fall in love with on first ride. The performance is ballistic but that's expected from a 1000cc in-line four powered motorcycle. What isn't expected though is the ease with which anyone can take to this motorcycle. The compact dimensions and fantastic ride quality makes the ZX-10R one of the easiest superbikes to live with.
Bike Manufacturer of the year - Hero has come out all guns blazing in 2013. Not only did the company acquire a significant stake in EBR, it also tied up with Magneti Marelli and made significant progress on its R&D efforts. Hero launched bikes in the US, Central America and South Africa while also firing three of its own engines. The company showcased 15 updated bikes and announced its plans to launch 50 new products in the next three years. The automaker also introduced 5-year warranty on its bikes.
Read more at MotorBeam Awards 2013 Winners | MotorBeam ? Indian Car Bike News & Reviews
