I was losing hope in indian Auto Journalism with the usual Motovlogger masala channels, and then comes these two behemoths of my childhood, a childhood spent reading Indian Auto, Auto India, BS motoring, and they completely induce so much moto-dopamine in my system, yet again, after 20 years!
For me, FZ16 was the benchmark when it came to 150cc bikes. It was game changer for Yamaha, and i remember lusting after it for years. I actually had to buy it secretly without telling my father because he wanted me to be more conservative and buy a splendor. And tell u what, now I have owned it for 10 years, and still don't want to get rid of it.
Driving like splendor is best way to hide from father 😂 . I did same with Gs150r when my father wanted to me to drive bajaj boxer or cd dawn . Thankfully GS 150r drove like 100 cc most of times 😂 .
@@vikasshelke5544 it was good one smiley 😌. My father actually sat only once as pillion on my fz and immediately started complaining that if he sat any longer, he will get piles, that much he hated it.
@@Rzshaikh88gmai agreed … I was a class apart … of all the bikes I used to borrow from friends and batchmates during college … the FZ16 was the most thrilling, most comfortable ever… for me …
It's so nice to hear someone else other than me talk about the LML Freedom. My dad used to work for LML and so we got the Freedom 110. And it was a fantastic bike. It feels effortless to drive in the city, feels engaging, and even after numerous long rides on highways, extremely sporty riding in the city, and driving it to the absolute limit, it has never let me down once. It's the bike I learnt to ride on and will always have a soft spot in my heart. I still have it alongside my new Hunter 350 but have no plans of selling it just yet. I just made it to the next part of the podcast where Kartikeya talks about the Figo, our first car. My dad has made some excellent choices with cars and bikes.
Still remember doing a wheelie on the Graptor during the test ride and the sales advisor sitting behind was like "Yenu sirrr".... LML bikes were super fun. This was in 2004 or early 2005 when Bajaj was harping about 13 horses in the Pulsar and LML was like "We have 15"
Another masterpiece podcast. I'll buy a Hero Splendor with my salary. It'll be my first dream bike to own because of the emotion & the feeling it provides me whenever I look at that bike. I automatically feel happy just by looking at that simple classic bike. It's a true legend for me.
The moment the R15 conversation started I had tears , the v2 was my first bike complete black and as you guys said I had no issues with it , not even a single puncture ever. In case if you could crack how to position yourself on the bike you could go miles on it . Thanks for reminding me of my beautiful memories.
R15 was only bike that made FZ sales . It was indeed game changer to Yamaha who were struggling with stupid 100 -125 bikes , people literally ignored Yamaha altogether until FZ and R15 made showrooms shining till today . R15 also reminded us of Yamaha the company that left the legacy of RX 100 Rd350 behind . Yamaha now needs another mass market bike .
Hey Shumi and Kartikeya, Being a hardcore bike enthusiast, My daily ride is still a '97 Suzuki Shogun. Owned multiple of them at one point in time. I discovered the Shogun in 2014 when I was about 20. I own the Second gen Shaolin(Gear indicator meter model) as well. I restore Motorcycles for a living and keep saving them one at a time. Being a Shogun fanboy, I so wanted you guys to talk about it. This made my day!!! If you guys ever need a bone stock shogun for the channel, would be more than happy to help.
I just appreciate the way they talk about NOT JUST the SUPERBIKES Or CARS, but they talk about the real deal. ❤ thank you so much for these podcasts, they are a bliss to the ears 💯💯
My dad bought a new Swift in 2005 for our family. Every summer we used to go from Pune to Mumbai, I used to be like wow this car is no nice(we had 3 second hand cars before the swift). By the time I started to drive it, it already had 1.2lakh kms on the odo but it still felt so good to drive. The compactness, gearbox,visibility and the 1.3l engine(first generation) just made it so exciting.Since then I am fond of hatchbacks that can give a bit of fun too.A swift sport in the market like u guys said could be a very nice addition. My first bike was an Apache 160 4v, I bought it for the sole purpose of going to good mileage with a decent ability to ride at highways. I was taken aback when my friend let me ride his 2018 Duke 390 and then I had completely made up my mind that I want this. So I bought a second hand Duke 390(6 months ago) and I am absolutely enjoying it. Thanks to Shumi,he made me realise the fun aspect of riding and having an emotional relation with a vehicle I had after we had to sell the Swift. (PD podcast)
10:04 as a shine owner i got goosebumps when you took the name, My mom bought me that bike when i was in college in 2014 now it's been 10 years 90k kms, i used to go for trips with my friends later with my colleagues, they used to ride 350s 411s 250s but my 125 never failed to keep up with those biggies. Now i can afford big bikes but after taking my shine for a spin that urge fades away.
Personally I think the first generation Hero Honda CBZ was ahead of its time - It was a dream bike for all the 90s kids like me to be able to ride one which I eventually did as the first motorcycle I ever rode... I was star-struck.
CBZ started the 150 cc performance trend but failed to gain masses due to issues from where Bajaj launched Pulsars that took market by strome . Hero literally lost the 150 cc maket there on.
It has not failed because of issues. Other one gained market (maybe due to easy Bajaj finance making it affordable for someone who doesn't have good own place to stay). 1st gen CBZ without sporty sticker was the best performance bike. Thanks to Honda collaboration
The way their faces lit up when they mentioned R-15, brought an immense sense of pride in me as a proud owner of the V3. Glad I feel the same about my Yammy the way the experts feel. 😊
This is what is called pure knowledge and experience; very few can connect the dots. What I think is missing is inserting a reference image or video in between the conversation . Great work, by the way.
Despite being a new entrant in the 125cc segment, TVS raider has managed to grab eyeballs with how fun and youthful a 125cc commuter can be without missing out on practicality too much.
1. 1st Gen Figo (owned petrol). That hydraulic steering made me a good listener because it spoke so much! 2. Polo GT TSI. That engine and dsg mating was a match made in heaven 3. Palio 1.4 multijet, one which had god of cricket in its advertisement 4. Fiesta 1.6 s, only if they offered this same engine with chassis upgrades in the 1st Gen Figo 5. Linea Tjet 6. 2nd Gen Figo S ( The PD video about Figo S and Abarth still sends shivers down my spine) 7. Fiat Punto Abarth 1. 1st exp with Duke 390 was just manic. Being an inexperienced rider it was like riding an angry bull. But own Svartpillen 401 now😊 2. Dream is to own Street Triple R
Stability and build quality: Fiat Palio. That joy of overtaking heavy vehicles, w.o. having to 'swirl away' when next to them. A tank in literal sense. Had a leakage in coolant hose right next to a clamp in my (then) 7 yr old 2nd hand Palio. The original 'made in Italy' clamp had to be cut as it refused to budge, half an inch of hose was cut out and put back again with a new clamp. Its stability was my benchmark for a new car, and i landed up with Classic /Fiesta in 2014. The handling, nimble driving, steering feedback - absolute pleasure!! 1.25L on odometer, still going strong.
Great work! The benchmark for me would be the MG Hector. The car that started the internet inside hype. The hype created so much with the app, the gizmos, the creature comfort, body quality and the quality of materials used inside was literally a start for a healthy competition from the other brands. I know people call it Chinese and stuff due to the parent company's nationality. But if you look in dept, the car was actually based on Audi Q7 and the floating indicators directly from the VAG again. So are many parts that literally make it feel European. The engine from GM ( developed by Daewoo and Suzuki) is thirsty and is slow but if you consider the weight of the car, it is respectable. The suspension was developed jointly with Multimatic - a good brand known for exceptional suspension tuning for comfort . It may not be a driver's car but a car to be driven in comfort and appreciated.
The OG hero honda splendor.. my friend inherited one from his father, and almost all of my friends learnt to ride a bike on that. he still has the bike, it's quite well maintained. hope to ride it again some time.
We had a zen in the family for 12 years ...in the end had to sell it off due to rattling issues. But that thing still ran. Crazy to think such a small car could happily fit a family of 4. PS- I remember it also came with a sports mode, which was switching off the AC 😂
It felt so so good to hear about the shogans, freedoms and adrenos. These were the bikes I saw in my childhood and they did instil a love for them. According to me Yamaha placed a benchmark in Indian biking with r15 and fz 16. As a teen I got to know how to differentiate bikes on character there was a sport bike and then there was a naked bike. Before this, there were just commuters.
Here's me - started learning riding a 2 wheeler on Hero Honda Splendor. Got my first motorcycle in college - Bajaj CT 100. Have fond memories riding it in and out of college at Balewadi, Pune. First job - got myself Yamaha FZ16. That fat tyres was love at first sight. I loved its braking ability. Second job - got classic 350 during its first launch in 2011. Rode it cross country. Got married, bought myself a Suzuki Access 125. Loved its acceleration. Now contemplating a new purchase. The motorcyclist in you never dies! By the way - I have kept all of them, I am a keeper and have an emotional attachment with my rides! Thanks Shumi, Kartikeya for these sweet lovely conversations. I am a big fan!
Shumi actually recommended me the impulse (with a jc moto brace😅) when I reached out to him 5-6 years ago. The bike is still as eager and not tiring away any time soon❤️
8:29 LML Adreno was my Dad's First Bike. Childhood memories get refreshed when I used to get a 2 rounds of ride everytime he went for office. Great Bike Loved it
This was the Gold Episode ❤ Coming to the milestones for me its going to be a Karizma (was a powerhorse for its time, reliable & comfy, a complete package)
1 bike and 1 car I wanna highlight is the Suzuki Gixxer 150 which I got in 2015. Smooth AF. And Wagon R. My mother and sister did a 9000km India tour in our 8year old Wagon R and had smooth sailing throughout. Fantastic headroom for tall guys.. great space..
I still have my 2013 Yamaha Ray Z. It's just so fun to drive and extremely reliable. 10 years later it's as exciting, as thrilling as it was and hasn't gotten any issues whatsoever.
Not gonna lie, podcast is amazing. I have a Honda CBR 150R 2013 version. I have not seen a single competitor being so reliable for more than 10 years now. Having ridden so many bikes now, that one is still my fav. Soft comfortable commuter. Can do 140+ on good days still. Drive safe everyone.
In my honest opinion, 1. Splendor. 2. Stunner 125. 3. FZ 4. Apache RTR 160 5. CBR 250 6. Hunk 7. Thunderbird 8. Apache RR 310 (2019) 9. Karizma In cars, 1. Polo 2. Duster 3. Civic 4. Jazz 5. Scorpio 6. Thar 7. Nano (In no particular order). Set a benchmark in their respective class. I remember watching Shumi do a video on Stunner 125, Pulsar 135 and FZ. Shumi says (comparing the stunner and FZ), "what if you want something in the middle?" rider enters the fram right in the middle with a wheelie on a pulsar 135. I think Auto Journalism peaked at that very moment. Bless you man. Keep up the good work.
I felt about the KB Boxer 100 the same way like Kartikeya sir felt about LML CRD100. Man it is a fun bike to ride and can act great both as a commuter and an exciting machine when you want to! My friend's dad owns it and whenever the bike is free, I'm always eager to get a ride on it..
My benchmark: Yamaha SS125 (Gladiator), the last variant before Yamaha decided that they'll focus on selling scooters. It had a five-speed gearbox, an engine kill switch, dream-like handling, comfortable seating and rock steady even at above 100 km/h. The Honda Shine and SP could learn a thing or two from it.
The Gladiator was truly a good machine. Could have been slightly more exciting to ride but Shumi says he remembers his long term test Gladiator very fondly indeed.
A bike worthy for discussion was the benchmark set by herohonda splendor a staple work horse of India. I think another benchmark set by ktm Duke 390 man what a machine the handling the braking the confidence it gives on corners literally gives goosebumps. And I really hope there comes a worthy competitor in the 350cc category because we deserve more than these.
Simple answer. For Scooters, it's the Dio. It was the first time riding a scooter where I felt that a scooter could be fun. It's why I actually agreed to a scooter being bought as a teenager. And now, it's my current bike, the Adv 390. I'd been test riding bikes left right and centre, and though so many were good bikes, I never felt the sense I was buying something powerful, or special. The Gixxer SF 250, Vstrom SX, Himalyan, FZ 250 and G310 GS all felt like nice comfortable bikes to ride. But they were disppointing the 15 year old me who had vowed to buy an amazing fast bike. One test drive if the 390 Adv sealed the decision that I couldn't take in almost 2 years. It's good to use your mind when buying a thing, but the heart is where the bike is finalised.
The Hero Xpulse 200 4v has become a benchmark for me as it allows me to accomplish things on the bike that I once could only imagine, such as riding on both on-road and off-road terrains with ease. It has truly enhanced my riding experience.
The content that you guys are making just keeps me getting hooked to your channel. Even though I'm having very little knowledge about bikes and I don't own a car/bike and don't know how to drive a car, it still attracts me to listen to the conversations of enthusiasts, it's just phenomenal! Kudos to all the efforts put by you all and I will definitely be considering of buying a better machine for myself and feel the connection with it, rather than going with the market trends like sheep :)
For me its fz v2 , i was struggling a lot to learn and master two wheeler riding untill i got a chnace to ride my friends v2 the moment i put second gear and throttle it was a bliss there after i gained lot of confidence. Then after few years owned yamaha r15 v3 clocked 35 kms. Needless to say how amazing was that machine. Since we are talking about benchmark this channel is a bench mark for automotive journalism.🎉🎉
Watching this a month later. I can't explain how happy I am to see such a professional, high quality and yet passionate indian podcast talking about Indian vehicles and stories... Please don't stop. Please keep these going.
Have noticed your conversation never misses Duke 390. I fell in love with it and own one now Shumi your conversation gave me assurance that I will not go wrong in choosing the right bike for me The Duke 390 is fun. Multistrad never had a chance to ride one but my dream benchmark is Africa Twin.Omg you spoke about Showgun that was awesome bike it was capable of doing whelee in second gear. You guys truly connect.
I've enjoyed this thoroughly. What I would appreciate more is what are the bikes you are looking forward to in the years 2023-24. And I am saddened that not even once the TVS apache RR310 came into conversation, after being praised so many times by you two to be the perfect balance to have fun and practicality.
I learnt to drive on my dad's second hand Freedom. I also had the opportunity to drive first gen Apache, Pulsar, XCD etc. There was no engine, and I mean no engine that felt as smooth. It wasn't a very punchy engine but just the fact that when you were cruising on it at ≈ 50kmph, there was almost non existent NVH. Man do I love and miss that bike so so much. Our family had gotten an Aviator around that time (we are all 6ft+) and that became the default driver. The Freedom was almost never serviced and had a faulty clutch. But man, it never did die on me. It didn't look very aspirational, yes but just for the engine, I am very happy to see someone discuss this long forgotten machine.
I have an unusual kind of benchmark : the visual benchmark. For me it’s the Continental GT 535. I first saw it at a petrol pump in Goa and immediately went “good lord that bike looks incredible!”. Clip-on handlebars, single seat, bright yellow shocks, this motorcycle looked like a massive middle finger to practicality, and it blew my mind away. So ahead of its time. So classy, so beautiful. This motorcycle for me was motorised art.
I used to own a gt 535 and yes visually it was a piece of art but as a bike it was a piece of crap. That bike showed me all the possible ways a bike could break down. Just a pain through and though
Sir the podcast was awesome and I believe a few minutes about Volkswagen Polo would have increased the magnitude of that awesomeness. Thank you. -Aranga
In 2006 I got a Hero Honda Karizma and that was a game-changer motorcycle for me. Butter smooth engine and cruising at 100kmph felt effortless. Rode it for 7 years & later bought Bullet Electra in 2014 & then realised that i did big mistake going with Enfield.
Nice episode. Fiat Punto and VW Polo were missed- these cars redefined and set standards to what driving dynamics in basic daily drivers should look like.
My Benchmark would be Yamaha FZ 16 v1 bs3. I own it since 2020(pre-worshipped). It has a grunt in its engine that put smile on my face every time i open the throttle. I absolutely loved it❤
I was extremely enthusiastic and excited about automobiles from as young as 5 year old. I was born in Arunachal Pradesh so obviously I did not see a lot of variety on roads except for gypsy and Maruti 1000 but there was once my parents took me for a vacation in Trivandrum and I saw this car called the standard 2000. My father literally had to pull me away from the car, I would have been 7 year old or something. I was flabbergasted. I remember it so clearly. The next time this happened was when I saw the CBZ in flesh for the first time when I was in 10th standard. I just wanted the bike. Though by this time I already had posters and knew about cagiva v raptor, Benneli tornado, the fire blade and the R1s, seeing the CBZ in flesh blew my mind. These are the two instances I will never ever forget in my life. Today I have a tiger 800, new Thar and a creta but I never had that excitement ever again. You guys reminded me of those days.
My benchmark coming from a first time car buyer: Ford Figo TDCI 1st gen! we have done 2 Lakh plus kms as our family car and it is still a great pleasure to drive. And for bikes, Honda Unicorn 1st gen was a benchmark back in mid 2000s doing those long commutes to college!
Appreciate you for including the Shogun, it was a very special motorcycle, derived from the rally spec Supra SS, a fully TVS-developed bike. The Shogun had a megaphonic black chrome (not black paint) exhaust that worked like an expansion chamber, something I believe was the first and last 2 stroke motorcycle in India to have them, the handlebar & front mudguard were of black chrome as well. TVS actually gave the Samurai meter console in 1993, where they started taking customer requests & added the electronic tachometer which had a habit of frying itself when your battery got weak lol, damn fun bike! Very rare to spot one, but some people still have them, parts are very hard to get. It's a damn shame to what happened to TVS Suzuki, the Shogun that they showcase at Motosoul, has no Suzuki badges, it is maintained so badly, TVS themselves couldn't source parts like RVMs, headlight bikini.etc
A late commer of course but couldnt resist this video. Royal Enfield Classic 350 Reborn has set a benchmark for how you feel that a retro bike can talk back to you. As Shumi said, I felt here ❤ and i bought it. I never regretted even once for about 2 years.
Guys, Mahindra Rodeo 125. It's been 12yrs , I am still riding it. Peppy performance, front fueling system, comfy suspension, good amount of boot space . Only minus point is digital meter. It stop working whenever it comes in contact of water. Specially monsoon season is a Big No. Mahindra staff never solved this issue. I ended up switching to analog meter of Flyte scooter. Special request from my side to you guys - Pls make podcast on Mahindra 2 wheeler experience. Mojo 300- Rodeo 125 - Duro - Gusto - Flyte - Centuro - Pantero.
Wow.. Hearing those LML bike names brings nostalgia. Had the chance to sit on the petrol tanks of Adreno and Freedom as a child 😂 Sharukh khan posing with the Freedom Poster. For me Pulsar 200 had the same feel as Adreno.. Stick half fairing to the front 😂 And Graptor and Glamour/Hunk had the same looks for me.. Inshort this episode was like ROAD TO PAST ❤ I really wish we could get some Uncut episode where you guys can go all out 😂 would love to see that sometimes.
I'm so happy that I share a similar mindset to these two wise men. My Garage: 1995 Suzuki Shogun 2011 Ford Figo (1st gen) 2016 Ford Ecosport 2019 Yamaha R3 Scooters: TVS Wego TVS Jupiter 125
Chevrolet Optra Magnum 2.0 Diesel changed my outlook about cars. The surge of power was scary at times, atleast for the 14 yr old me sitting in the backseat.
Benchmarks for me Moped - Kinetic Luna Commuters - Hero Honda CD100SS and Hero Glamour Off-roading - Hero Impulse Do it all bike - Ducati Multistrada Hatchback - Abarth Punto Sedan - Fiat Linea SUV - Mercedes G-wagon
I've owned two vehicles, the Chevy beat and a Ford figo (latest gen) Both of them left the country but ford's service is still spot on. "the family wali feeling" They're still maintaining unlike Chevy. Kudos to ford. The service experience is phenomenal.
Since you recommend R15, Can I go for MT 15 v2? I am on the taller side. I want a fun, reliable and efficient machine primarily for city purposes without a committed riding position . Thanks in advance Great podcast once again 👌
Totally agree with you on suzuki access 125. I own one and whenever I take it for a ride it brings a smile on my face. The way it accelerates is fun. Only problem I faced is the worst service centers. Apart from that access is a great scooter.
For me it is the fz16. Underpowered yes. Always felt needed more power. The best part to me about this bike is the way it handles. It's like dancing with your partner. Getting in sync. And she syncs well. The way the bike goes into the corners, that sense of stability and corner it carries. Amazing. I have memories of overtaking bikes, cars, Rickshaws in corners. Where they went slow, I could just overtake them. It was a budget Mt 15 before the real Mt 15🤣 love it.
For me, my benchmark bike will be KTM 390 - 2022 Slippers clutch, Ride by wire, wheel base, and the sharp stunning look... Oh my gawdd.... She is the one I see you talk about your 390 passionately makes me glad about my choice
I've been riding bikes for a few years but started with cars only recently. And given that our family car is a harrier, my benchmark was set high. All changed when I drove my cousins Nexon. I love diesel engines and really appreciate the effortless power that harrier provides but that clutch is straight from hell. Experiencing a light clutch, sharp handling and more than adequate power of the Nexon gave me a new found respect for compact SUVs. So much so given the choice i would personally choose Nexon over harrier(family's opinions aside) Edit: I'm living in Europe currently and don't have the freedom of my own vehicle. I always enjoyed taking test rides of new bikes i was excited by, love the series of yt shorts you guys make. Keeps me connected to the desi gadis.
very reliable i can. i own the v2 and 1 lakh kms done till date and changed clutch plates at 85000 kms for rupees 400. nothing else. routine maintainance chain, brakes etc comes very cheap. changed battery only once this year after 6 years never had battery issue. great experience with it now waiting for the r3. not gonna sell the r15 though.
The Polo/Vento and their DSG and the beautiful 1.6/1.5 TDI. Daily drivers that became madness. Man that 1.2L TSI + DQ200 7 speed DSG had people hooked to tuning cars which initiated a revolution and a car culture! the City and the Octavia did have its moments in the 2000s but this was a full blown change!
You guys are simply awesome.. The calm discussions and very meaningful conversations about vehicles is brilliant.. I have stopped watching individual review videos of vehicles and watch your videos only.. Keep it coming.. 😀
I watched this episode closer to when it came out. I am watching it again now because despite all of the mammoth knowledge these guys have accumelated over the years, it feels like a conversation, I , a non techincal guy can relate to. I just hope this channel doesn't fade away and you folks continue on the path you began on. Cheers bro 🍻
Amazing episode. I generally don’t watch a RUclips video nowadays for more than 2 mins. But watching you episodes without a break. I think one great benchmark is the Chevy Cruze which was quite affordable and amazing bang for the buck as it just blew the C segment cars out of the water.
To me, the R15 V2 represents the ultimate benchmark, not only because of its performance but also because of the memories it holds. It was back in 2015, during my first year of university, when my best friend and I moved to the city together. He owned a CBR250, and I remember feeling excited about this new chapter in our lives. It was a time of joy and new beginnings, like a song that when you hear it again, takes you back to that special moment. Thinking about it now makes me feel so happy.
same here , but I have 09 v1. still rules the streets. still goes on rides and hold on with bigger bikes. but when twisties come the boss music starts.
We bought the 1st gen Figo diesel just before the launch of 2nd gen. Clocked 1.6 lac km in 8 years and still counting. It is the second car in our family and the one on which I learned to drive. It’s only after driving other cars from the same segment I realised what a quality car we have. Ford left India just a month after my father told me “Ab next Ecosports hi lenge”. Such a sore scar we have there.
Great podcast as always loved it ❤ mine my dad's OG vespa 2 stroke, CBZ, R15V2, and now speed twin 1200 (2022). In cars always fan of vtec first gen honda city (i actually have a poster), ford Mondeo, and lastly lancer. I have memories of my neighbour owning RX100 and suzuki samurai when i was a kid and god the sound, it always made me peek the bike through the window. Thank you for bringing some memories back.❤
Opel Vectra needs a special mention in terms of creating a benchmark for tech in cars. It was way ahead of its time, and threw real good punches at the C-series, A4 & 3-series available at that time
I may sound like an abarth fanboy but man that scorpion abarth punto was just phenomenal. Surely gearbox was not light and took a while to get used to that heavy and clunky gearbox but when you get the hang of it, even the mighty polo gti would had a tough time against that scorpion. Also the figo s and Baleno rs were those serious enthusiastic car sadly no one bought it then and now we can only remember those. Rightly said by shumi sir that now when the people are quite mature and there are more young enthusiasts these projects will make more sense and if brands stick by those projects it will be an amazing thing. Introduction of things like an option for short throw shifter in the models would be amazing.
I feel the shogun as benchmark for fun, raw power motorcycle in it's segment. Everytime I think it can't do this, it surprises how easily it does. The yezdi roadking changed my perception when I took it on a mountain trail with above medium track where himalayan, xpulse, 390 adventure struggling to keep a pace, falling down and getting stuck. But this old machine easily made up the 2.5 km mountain without even stopping, falling or even bottoming out. That day it opened a whole new world what this beauty can do. Suzuki fiero with it torquey power if fitted with right tires was a competitor for Impulse. The first generation of Karizma showed me how a simple 220cc engine can be so smooth, reliable, bulletproof and exiting every single day. Hats off to those motorcycles, scooters and cars which moved Indian automobile industry and few who were literally awesome but couldn't get the recognition. Had real fun watching this podcast. Cheers!!!
Another great podcast episode. Completely agree with Swift, Figo D, and R15. I missed Linea Tjet. Great looks, great handling and powerful engine. and Rtr 160/200 is the fun bike for masses. R15 spares are expensive and yamaha service is really bad. Consumables like brake pads, disks don't last long. Ive 1st gen r15 with 1.5+L kms. All great, but the service in my city is very poor. Hence decided to never recommend yamaha to anyone. On the other hand RTR gives almost 90% of the fun at cheaper price and with much better headlight. And that exhaust note.. wow Another surprise for me was the R15 Stock tyres. The 100/80 R17 rear tyre had way more grip than every 120/80 R17 tyre at that time. Sadly MRF doesn't make them now.
Seems all good but my take on the same topic: Some of the category-creating beauties Scooters: Honda Dio / Kinetic Blaze - Showed us that scooters can be fun Bikes: RX 100 -Two-stroke rocket which puts a smile on your face till today. CBZ - Journey of Indian bikes from commuter to enthusiast Pulsar 220 - the fastest India and best value for a buck for an enthusiast (First in the segment above 20hp) R15 - Showed us what cornering fun is! and entry to all small displacement sports RE Thunderbird - Even if the classic opened it up but Thunderbird made it a perfect cruiser (Touring was born in India) KTM Duke 390 - Fist ever mid-size pure naked sport, paved the way for all mid-large size bikes in India Cars: Zen - Undoubtedly Mumbaidrift casting contender Lord Alto - It can take everything and it's proof that you don't need to sell your house to do an all-India road trip Mitsubishi Lancer/ Cedia - India never experienced a balanced chassis and sweet-sounding engine like this Chevrolet Cruze - The turbo diesel Monster which gave birth to turbo lag-loving Indians Ford Ecosport - The real sub-4 category creator and I think best in class tourer Ford Fiesta - Already covered Tata Safari - Real SUV category creator Toyota Qualis/Innova - MPV like never before which can take it all and a pure miles hogger Mahindra Bolero - Official SUV of rural India VW Polo - Swift did the groundwork but this beauty just set the hot hatch market for us Skoda Octavia - Introduction to DSG/Dual clutch to India and with that 2 ltr diesel it was a tank
I owned a Pulsar 180 and I felt it was a such a fun and forgiving bike. During my college days when money was tight I used to not put that bike for service for 8-9 months. I remember I once serviced the bike after a year and it never gave me a major problem. Many mechanics told me to change the piston and the piston block back in those days all the mechanics used to say that for Bajaj bikes, be it Pulsar, Discover or XCD, I never changed it and after 12yrs with that bike I did not complaint. Infact sold it at a decent cost. During that time my friend had an Apache RTR, to be honest I found it's handling much more sportier, the pegs were high, it was nimble and handling was better but that bike was not so good at higher RPMs. My benchmark from the Pulsar became a forgiving bike that could do all things with me and not just few things. And so currently I own a Bullet Std 500, believe it or not even that is almost the same 😊
Ecosport (and also Vitara Brezza): Created the sub 4 mtr mid size SUV segment in India which now flourishes elegantly.....Secondly, we talk about Motorcycles changing the game but miss out on any of the Enfields? Bullet 350? Classic 350? Thunderbird? RE taught the Desi crowd that "Not all cool bikes are sports bikes"
These are our reference points - the ones we use to measure what’s possible as we test new vehicles. Maybe we should do a history-focusssed podcast episode that talks about the industry too!
I was losing hope in indian Auto Journalism with the usual Motovlogger masala channels, and then comes these two behemoths of my childhood, a childhood spent reading Indian Auto, Auto India, BS motoring, and they completely induce so much moto-dopamine in my system, yet again, after 20 years!
I love you guys for giving us time stamps, you don't know how cool you have to be to do that!
Haha! You're welcome!
Exxxxactly!!
This channel is paving a path to next gen automobile content
Literally a blessing to enthusiastic ppl
♥️ Thanks Sriram!
For me, FZ16 was the benchmark when it came to 150cc bikes. It was game changer for Yamaha, and i remember lusting after it for years. I actually had to buy it secretly without telling my father because he wanted me to be more conservative and buy a splendor. And tell u what, now I have owned it for 10 years, and still don't want to get rid of it.
Oh wow! Hiding a bike from a parent is not easy!
Driving like splendor is best way to hide from father 😂 . I did same with Gs150r when my father wanted to me to drive bajaj boxer or cd dawn . Thankfully GS 150r drove like 100 cc most of times 😂 .
@@vikasshelke5544 it was good one smiley 😌. My father actually sat only once as pillion on my fz and immediately started complaining that if he sat any longer, he will get piles, that much he hated it.
@@Rzshaikh88gmai agreed … I was a class apart … of all the bikes I used to borrow from friends and batchmates during college … the FZ16 was the most thrilling, most comfortable ever… for me …
It's so nice to hear someone else other than me talk about the LML Freedom. My dad used to work for LML and so we got the Freedom 110. And it was a fantastic bike. It feels effortless to drive in the city, feels engaging, and even after numerous long rides on highways, extremely sporty riding in the city, and driving it to the absolute limit, it has never let me down once. It's the bike I learnt to ride on and will always have a soft spot in my heart. I still have it alongside my new Hunter 350 but have no plans of selling it just yet.
I just made it to the next part of the podcast where Kartikeya talks about the Figo, our first car. My dad has made some excellent choices with cars and bikes.
He has! Kudos Dad!
Still remember doing a wheelie on the Graptor during the test ride and the sales advisor sitting behind was like "Yenu sirrr".... LML bikes were super fun. This was in 2004 or early 2005 when Bajaj was harping about 13 horses in the Pulsar and LML was like "We have 15"
Another masterpiece podcast. I'll buy a Hero Splendor with my salary. It'll be my first dream bike to own because of the emotion & the feeling it provides me whenever I look at that bike. I automatically feel happy just by looking at that simple classic bike. It's a true legend for me.
♥️ All the best Deepak!
Off course something bought with our hard earned money is too precious for our heart .
The moment the R15 conversation started I had tears , the v2 was my first bike complete black and as you guys said I had no issues with it , not even a single puncture ever.
In case if you could crack how to position yourself on the bike you could go miles on it .
Thanks for reminding me of my beautiful memories.
900% It's such a great bike because of it!
R15 was only bike that made FZ sales . It was indeed game changer to Yamaha who were struggling with stupid 100 -125 bikes , people literally ignored Yamaha altogether until FZ and R15 made showrooms shining till today . R15 also reminded us of Yamaha the company that left the legacy of RX 100 Rd350 behind . Yamaha now needs another mass market bike .
Same with me brother.
I got tears when they talked about the r15...
Really tremendous bike
Hey Shumi and Kartikeya, Being a hardcore bike enthusiast, My daily ride is still a '97 Suzuki Shogun. Owned multiple of them at one point in time. I discovered the Shogun in 2014 when I was about 20. I own the Second gen Shaolin(Gear indicator meter model) as well. I restore Motorcycles for a living and keep saving them one at a time. Being a Shogun fanboy, I so wanted you guys to talk about it. This made my day!!!
If you guys ever need a bone stock shogun for the channel, would be more than happy to help.
Lucky lucky lucky! We're envious Darshan! Thanks for the offer! That is super kind! If you don't mind us asking... where is the bike physically?
@@motorinc The bike is in Bhiwandi, Thane. Got 2 at the moment. One is a factory paint black Shogun and one is a recently restored Silver gun.
Oh wow! We're definitely going to plan something special!
@@motorinc Looking forward to hearing back from you.
Please do this.. we are waiting for an episode on Shogun
I just appreciate the way they talk about NOT JUST the SUPERBIKES Or CARS, but they talk about the real deal. ❤ thank you so much for these podcasts, they are a bliss to the ears 💯💯
It’s what moves you! They all do!
My dad bought a new Swift in 2005 for our family. Every summer we used to go from Pune to Mumbai, I used to be like wow this car is no nice(we had 3 second hand cars before the swift). By the time I started to drive it, it already had 1.2lakh kms on the odo but it still felt so good to drive. The compactness, gearbox,visibility and the 1.3l engine(first generation) just made it so exciting.Since then I am fond of hatchbacks that can give a bit of fun too.A swift sport in the market like u guys said could be a very nice addition.
My first bike was an Apache 160 4v, I bought it for the sole purpose of going to good mileage with a decent ability to ride at highways. I was taken aback when my friend let me ride his 2018 Duke 390 and then I had completely made up my mind that I want this. So I bought a second hand Duke 390(6 months ago) and I am absolutely enjoying it.
Thanks to Shumi,he made me realise the fun aspect of riding and having an emotional relation with a vehicle I had after we had to sell the Swift. (PD podcast)
Ohhhh sweet! That’s an awesome read! Stay safe and have fun!
10:04 as a shine owner i got goosebumps when you took the name, My mom bought me that bike when i was in college in 2014 now it's been 10 years 90k kms, i used to go for trips with my friends later with my colleagues, they used to ride 350s 411s 250s but my 125 never failed to keep up with those biggies. Now i can afford big bikes but after taking my shine for a spin that urge fades away.
It's a wonderful motorcycle @yashaswis3529! Thanks for sharing.
Its lovely❤
Personally I think the first generation Hero Honda CBZ was ahead of its time - It was a dream bike for all the 90s kids like me to be able to ride one which I eventually did as the first motorcycle I ever rode... I was star-struck.
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CBZ started the 150 cc performance trend but failed to gain masses due to issues from where Bajaj launched Pulsars that took market by strome . Hero literally lost the 150 cc maket there on.
It has not failed because of issues. Other one gained market (maybe due to easy Bajaj finance making it affordable for someone who doesn't have good own place to stay). 1st gen CBZ without sporty sticker was the best performance bike. Thanks to Honda collaboration
The way their faces lit up when they mentioned R-15, brought an immense sense of pride in me as a proud owner of the V3.
Glad I feel the same about my Yammy the way the experts feel. 😊
Couldn't agree more!
This is what is called pure knowledge and experience; very few can connect the dots.
What I think is missing is inserting a reference image or video in between the conversation .
Great work, by the way.
exactly and the approx price as well
Despite being a new entrant in the 125cc segment, TVS raider has managed to grab eyeballs with how fun and youthful a 125cc commuter can be without missing out on practicality too much.
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1. 1st Gen Figo (owned petrol). That hydraulic steering made me a good listener because it spoke so much!
2. Polo GT TSI. That engine and dsg mating was a match made in heaven
3. Palio 1.4 multijet, one which had god of cricket in its advertisement
4. Fiesta 1.6 s, only if they offered this same engine with chassis upgrades in the 1st Gen Figo
5. Linea Tjet
6. 2nd Gen Figo S ( The PD video about Figo S and Abarth still sends shivers down my spine)
7. Fiat Punto Abarth
1. 1st exp with Duke 390 was just manic. Being an inexperienced rider it was like riding an angry bull. But own Svartpillen 401 now😊
2. Dream is to own Street Triple R
What a great list!
Stability and build quality: Fiat Palio. That joy of overtaking heavy vehicles, w.o. having to 'swirl away' when next to them. A tank in literal sense. Had a leakage in coolant hose right next to a clamp in my (then) 7 yr old 2nd hand Palio. The original 'made in Italy' clamp had to be cut as it refused to budge, half an inch of hose was cut out and put back again with a new clamp.
Its stability was my benchmark for a new car, and i landed up with Classic /Fiesta in 2014. The handling, nimble driving, steering feedback - absolute pleasure!! 1.25L on odometer, still going strong.
Thanks for reminding us of the Palio, Ankur! ❤️
Great work!
The benchmark for me would be the MG Hector. The car that started the internet inside hype. The hype created so much with the app, the gizmos, the creature comfort, body quality and the quality of materials used inside was literally a start for a healthy competition from the other brands. I know people call it Chinese and stuff due to the parent company's nationality. But if you look in dept, the car was actually based on Audi Q7 and the floating indicators directly from the VAG again. So are many parts that literally make it feel European. The engine from GM ( developed by Daewoo and Suzuki) is thirsty and is slow but if you consider the weight of the car, it is respectable. The suspension was developed jointly with Multimatic - a good brand known for exceptional suspension tuning for comfort . It may not be a driver's car but a car to be driven in comfort and appreciated.
The OG hero honda splendor..
my friend inherited one from his father, and almost all of my friends learnt to ride a bike on that. he still has the bike, it's quite well maintained. hope to ride it again some time.
That would be special! All the best!
We had a zen in the family for 12 years ...in the end had to sell it off due to rattling issues. But that thing still ran.
Crazy to think such a small car could happily fit a family of 4.
PS- I remember it also came with a sports mode, which was switching off the AC 😂
It felt so so good to hear about the shogans, freedoms and adrenos. These were the bikes I saw in my childhood and they did instil a love for them. According to me Yamaha placed a benchmark in Indian biking with r15 and fz 16. As a teen I got to know how to differentiate bikes on character there was a sport bike and then there was a naked bike. Before this, there were just commuters.
🤜🏽🤛🏽
Here's me - started learning riding a 2 wheeler on Hero Honda Splendor. Got my first motorcycle in college - Bajaj CT 100. Have fond memories riding it in and out of college at Balewadi, Pune. First job - got myself Yamaha FZ16. That fat tyres was love at first sight. I loved its braking ability. Second job - got classic 350 during its first launch in 2011. Rode it cross country. Got married, bought myself a Suzuki Access 125. Loved its acceleration. Now contemplating a new purchase. The motorcyclist in you never dies! By the way - I have kept all of them, I am a keeper and have an emotional attachment with my rides! Thanks Shumi, Kartikeya for these sweet lovely conversations. I am a big fan!
What a sweet garage SP! That's awesome! Let us know what you get next!
Shumi actually recommended me the impulse (with a jc moto brace😅) when I reached out to him 5-6 years ago. The bike is still as eager and not tiring away any time soon❤️
Glad we helped! ♥️
8:29 LML Adreno was my Dad's First Bike. Childhood memories get refreshed when I used to get a 2 rounds of ride everytime he went for office. Great Bike Loved it
Figo❤ so underrated but the best or one among top 03 hatchbacks that was ever available for sale in India..! #TDCi was a 💎
Agree. Agree. And agree. ❤️
This was the Gold Episode ❤
Coming to the milestones for me its going to be a Karizma (was a powerhorse for its time, reliable & comfy, a complete package)
Indeed! Unmatched at launch too!
Still Driving My Dad's 2011 Ford Fiesta 1.6 Petrol🔥 it' s a GEM💎
💯♥️
1 bike and 1 car I wanna highlight is the Suzuki Gixxer 150 which I got in 2015. Smooth AF.
And Wagon R. My mother and sister did a 9000km India tour in our 8year old Wagon R and had smooth sailing throughout. Fantastic headroom for tall guys.. great space..
Wow! That roadtrip sounds fantastic Vivaswan!
I still have my 2013 Yamaha Ray Z. It's just so fun to drive and extremely reliable. 10 years later it's as exciting, as thrilling as it was and hasn't gotten any issues whatsoever.
💯🤜🏽🤛🏽
Not gonna lie, podcast is amazing. I have a Honda CBR 150R 2013 version. I have not seen a single competitor being so reliable for more than 10 years now. Having ridden so many bikes now, that one is still my fav. Soft comfortable commuter. Can do 140+ on good days still. Drive safe everyone.
You drive and ride safe too!
The R15 can smoke it easily 🤣
Excellent discussion…For me my Polo GT TSI (1.2), been 6 years, a benchmark in ride & handling
Thanks for sharing Pranav! Good choices there!
I am watching this just for the conversation. You guys are amazing. So good to see just two people talk. No rush. No yelling. CalmenSense :)
Thanks for joining us @manage-better
In my honest opinion,
1. Splendor.
2. Stunner 125.
3. FZ
4. Apache RTR 160
5. CBR 250
6. Hunk
7. Thunderbird
8. Apache RR 310 (2019)
9. Karizma
In cars,
1. Polo
2. Duster
3. Civic
4. Jazz
5. Scorpio
6. Thar
7. Nano
(In no particular order).
Set a benchmark in their respective class. I remember watching Shumi do a video on Stunner 125, Pulsar 135 and FZ. Shumi says (comparing the stunner and FZ), "what if you want something in the middle?" rider enters the fram right in the middle with a wheelie on a pulsar 135.
I think Auto Journalism peaked at that very moment. Bless you man.
Keep up the good work.
Great list Rudra!
I felt about the KB Boxer 100 the same way like Kartikeya sir felt about LML CRD100. Man it is a fun bike to ride and can act great both as a commuter and an exciting machine when you want to! My friend's dad owns it and whenever the bike is free, I'm always eager to get a ride on it..
My benchmark: Yamaha SS125 (Gladiator), the last variant before Yamaha decided that they'll focus on selling scooters.
It had a five-speed gearbox, an engine kill switch, dream-like handling, comfortable seating and rock steady even at above 100 km/h. The Honda Shine and SP could learn a thing or two from it.
The Gladiator was truly a good machine. Could have been slightly more exciting to ride but Shumi says he remembers his long term test Gladiator very fondly indeed.
@@motorinc thanks for that reply guys, you just made my weekend.
Kinetic Luna - Yamaha rx135 1998 - Maruti 800 - Ford Fiesta 2007, - RE cast iron electra 350 - Street 750 - ktm 390- XUV 2013 -Skoda Octavia 2017. (My garage)
Nice garage!
One vehicle i would have wanted in India is Ford explorer
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A bike worthy for discussion was the benchmark set by herohonda splendor a staple work horse of India. I think another benchmark set by ktm Duke 390 man what a machine the handling the braking the confidence it gives on corners literally gives goosebumps. And I really hope there comes a worthy competitor in the 350cc category because we deserve more than these.
💯♥️
Simple answer. For Scooters, it's the Dio. It was the first time riding a scooter where I felt that a scooter could be fun. It's why I actually agreed to a scooter being bought as a teenager.
And now, it's my current bike, the Adv 390. I'd been test riding bikes left right and centre, and though so many were good bikes, I never felt the sense I was buying something powerful, or special. The Gixxer SF 250, Vstrom SX, Himalyan, FZ 250 and G310 GS all felt like nice comfortable bikes to ride. But they were disppointing the 15 year old me who had vowed to buy an amazing fast bike. One test drive if the 390 Adv sealed the decision that I couldn't take in almost 2 years. It's good to use your mind when buying a thing, but the heart is where the bike is finalised.
Truly smitten with the ADV then!? And the Dio is a classic.
The Hero Xpulse 200 4v has become a benchmark for me as it allows me to accomplish things on the bike that I once could only imagine, such as riding on both on-road and off-road terrains with ease. It has truly enhanced my riding experience.
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For me it was the Pulsar 135 ls... For a 60k motorcycle it was just awsm
These podcasts from the series have now become the best companion for my daily evening walks.
Awesome work Shumi sir and Kartikeya Sir!
Thanks Vikrant! Glad you're enjoying the 'cast!
The content that you guys are making just keeps me getting hooked to your channel. Even though I'm having very little knowledge about bikes and I don't own a car/bike and don't know how to drive a car, it still attracts me to listen to the conversations of enthusiasts, it's just phenomenal! Kudos to all the efforts put by you all and I will definitely be considering of buying a better machine for myself and feel the connection with it, rather than going with the market trends like sheep :)
i still remember the starting of the ad for the LML Freedom and we had an LML vespa for almost 30 years. the best memories were on that scooter.
same, vespa and then freedom we had
Good old days!
For me its fz v2 , i was struggling a lot to learn and master two wheeler riding untill i got a chnace to ride my friends v2 the moment i put second gear and throttle it was a bliss there after i gained lot of confidence. Then after few years owned yamaha r15 v3 clocked 35 kms. Needless to say how amazing was that machine.
Since we are talking about benchmark this channel is a bench mark for automotive journalism.🎉🎉
Watching this a month later. I can't explain how happy I am to see such a professional, high quality and yet passionate indian podcast talking about Indian vehicles and stories... Please don't stop. Please keep these going.
Season 02 is coming soon! Glad you love ThisConnect!
Have noticed your conversation never misses Duke 390. I fell in love with it and own one now Shumi your conversation gave me assurance that I will not go wrong in choosing the right bike for me The Duke 390 is fun. Multistrad never had a chance to ride one but my dream benchmark is Africa Twin.Omg you spoke about Showgun that was awesome bike it was capable of doing whelee in second gear. You guys truly connect.
The 390 will be a milestone for decades and decades for sure!
I've enjoyed this thoroughly. What I would appreciate more is what are the bikes you are looking forward to in the years 2023-24. And I am saddened that not even once the TVS apache RR310 came into conversation, after being praised so many times by you two to be the perfect balance to have fun and practicality.
It still is a good bike in many ways. But did it set a benchmark? No, not really, TKS.
I learnt to drive on my dad's second hand Freedom. I also had the opportunity to drive first gen Apache, Pulsar, XCD etc.
There was no engine, and I mean no engine that felt as smooth. It wasn't a very punchy engine but just the fact that when you were cruising on it at ≈ 50kmph, there was almost non existent NVH.
Man do I love and miss that bike so so much. Our family had gotten an Aviator around that time (we are all 6ft+) and that became the default driver. The Freedom was almost never serviced and had a faulty clutch. But man, it never did die on me.
It didn't look very aspirational, yes but just for the engine, I am very happy to see someone discuss this long forgotten machine.
I loved 2 scooters named bajaj legend and kinetic blaze. Those were so cool scooters, powerful, stylish. Probably overshadowed by activa.
Ahh!
Enthusiastic people speaking about automobiles, that's how i would like to spend my evening everyday, talking passionately about these stuff.
I have an unusual kind of benchmark : the visual benchmark. For me it’s the Continental GT 535. I first saw it at a petrol pump in Goa and immediately went “good lord that bike looks incredible!”. Clip-on handlebars, single seat, bright yellow shocks, this motorcycle looked like a massive middle finger to practicality, and it blew my mind away. So ahead of its time. So classy, so beautiful. This motorcycle for me was motorised art.
True! The 535 and now the 650GT are both insanely good looking machines
Bought me a Yellow 2015 GT 535 just this January (First job savings kinda purchase) and man oh man! the attention she grabs is just maddd!
That is the Jawa 42 Bobber for me! Middle finger to practicality as you said.
Nice!
I used to own a gt 535 and yes visually it was a piece of art but as a bike it was a piece of crap. That bike showed me all the possible ways a bike could break down. Just a pain through and though
My benchmark moment was first ride of RE J series min vibration engine of Meteor 350. Could not belive it is built by RE.
Sir the podcast was awesome and I believe a few minutes about Volkswagen Polo would have increased the magnitude of that awesomeness. Thank you.
-Aranga
Haha! Noted!
In 2006 I got a Hero Honda Karizma and that was a game-changer motorcycle for me. Butter smooth engine and cruising at 100kmph felt effortless. Rode it for 7 years & later bought Bullet Electra in 2014 & then realised that i did big mistake going with Enfield.
The Karizma did indeed change people's mind about what bikes could do a lot!
Nice episode. Fiat Punto and VW Polo were missed- these cars redefined and set standards to what driving dynamics in basic daily drivers should look like.
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My Benchmark would be Yamaha FZ 16 v1 bs3. I own it since 2020(pre-worshipped). It has a grunt in its engine that put smile on my face every time i open the throttle. I absolutely loved it❤
Super! FZ’s chassis and suspension are stunning!
I was extremely enthusiastic and excited about automobiles from as young as 5 year old. I was born in Arunachal Pradesh so obviously I did not see a lot of variety on roads except for gypsy and Maruti 1000 but there was once my parents took me for a vacation in Trivandrum and I saw this car called the standard 2000. My father literally had to pull me away from the car, I would have been 7 year old or something. I was flabbergasted. I remember it so clearly. The next time this happened was when I saw the CBZ in flesh for the first time when I was in 10th standard. I just wanted the bike. Though by this time I already had posters and knew about cagiva v raptor, Benneli tornado, the fire blade and the R1s, seeing the CBZ in flesh blew my mind. These are the two instances I will never ever forget in my life. Today I have a tiger 800, new Thar and a creta but I never had that excitement ever again.
You guys reminded me of those days.
Nice garage though, Rajesh!
My benchmark coming from a first time car buyer: Ford Figo TDCI 1st gen! we have done 2 Lakh plus kms as our family car and it is still a great pleasure to drive. And for bikes, Honda Unicorn 1st gen was a benchmark back in mid 2000s doing those long commutes to college!
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Appreciate you for including the Shogun, it was a very special motorcycle, derived from the rally spec Supra SS, a fully TVS-developed bike. The Shogun had a megaphonic black chrome (not black paint) exhaust that worked like an expansion chamber, something I believe was the first and last 2 stroke motorcycle in India to have them, the handlebar & front mudguard were of black chrome as well. TVS actually gave the Samurai meter console in 1993, where they started taking customer requests & added the electronic tachometer which had a habit of frying itself when your battery got weak lol, damn fun bike! Very rare to spot one, but some people still have them, parts are very hard to get.
It's a damn shame to what happened to TVS Suzuki, the Shogun that they showcase at Motosoul, has no Suzuki badges, it is maintained so badly, TVS themselves couldn't source parts like RVMs, headlight bikini.etc
What a neat history lesson BB! We know that TVS-Suzuki days' bikes maintenance isn't easy... not even for TVS themselves!
This is longest auto video I have seen completely without getting drifted out of the conversation even for a minute
Awesome! Thanks Mallik!
Love your conversations, I would not mind this going on for more than an hour.
Thanks Prasad!
A late commer of course but couldnt resist this video.
Royal Enfield Classic 350 Reborn has set a benchmark for how you feel that a retro bike can talk back to you.
As Shumi said, I felt here ❤ and i bought it. I never regretted even once for about 2 years.
Each episode is a master class, hats off guys!, i really wish you guys more subscribers
Thanks Abhishek!
Guys,
Mahindra Rodeo 125.
It's been 12yrs , I am still riding it. Peppy performance, front fueling system, comfy suspension, good amount of boot space . Only minus point is digital meter. It stop working whenever it comes in contact of water. Specially monsoon season is a Big No.
Mahindra staff never solved this issue.
I ended up switching to analog meter of Flyte scooter.
Special request from my side to you guys - Pls make podcast on Mahindra 2 wheeler experience.
Mojo 300- Rodeo 125 - Duro - Gusto - Flyte - Centuro - Pantero.
One of the very few people who got a Gusto 125 before it (and the company, come to think of it) disappeared!
Wow.. Hearing those LML bike names brings nostalgia. Had the chance to sit on the petrol tanks of Adreno and Freedom as a child 😂 Sharukh khan posing with the Freedom Poster. For me Pulsar 200 had the same feel as Adreno.. Stick half fairing to the front 😂 And Graptor and Glamour/Hunk had the same looks for me..
Inshort this episode was like ROAD TO PAST ❤
I really wish we could get some Uncut episode where you guys can go all out 😂 would love to see that sometimes.
These are uncut! They're not edited down and nothing's been cut out!
I'm so happy that I share a similar mindset to these two wise men. My Garage:
1995 Suzuki Shogun
2011 Ford Figo (1st gen)
2016 Ford Ecosport
2019 Yamaha R3
Scooters:
TVS Wego
TVS Jupiter 125
Thanks for sharing! And, awesooomme!
Top quality content..!
When we are talking about benchmarks, I think S Cross 1.6 DDiS should have a mention. 😊
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Chevrolet Optra Magnum 2.0 Diesel changed my outlook about cars. The surge of power was scary at times, atleast for the 14 yr old me sitting in the backseat.
Diesel rocket! You soaked up the sensations right!
2 very underrated yet powerful cars according to me are Tata Nano and Ford Freestyle. Sadly both of them are no longer available.
Thanks for sharing Dhanesh!
Would like to hear from you guys about these 2.
Benchmarks for me
Moped - Kinetic Luna
Commuters - Hero Honda CD100SS and Hero Glamour
Off-roading - Hero Impulse
Do it all bike - Ducati Multistrada
Hatchback - Abarth Punto
Sedan - Fiat Linea
SUV - Mercedes G-wagon
Great list!
@@motorinc ❤
I've owned two vehicles, the Chevy beat and a Ford figo (latest gen)
Both of them left the country but ford's service is still spot on. "the family wali feeling" They're still maintaining unlike Chevy.
Kudos to ford. The service experience is phenomenal.
🤜🏽🤛🏽
We still own the first gen Figo from 2011. What a gem of a car, the VFM it was just for 5L back in the day. The highway stability was just ♥
💯🤜🏽🤛🏽
Since you recommend R15, Can I go for MT 15 v2? I am on the taller side. I want a fun, reliable and efficient machine primarily for city purposes without a committed riding position . Thanks in advance
Great podcast once again 👌
Yes you can! Got get a test ride and let us know what you thought!
Totally agree with you on suzuki access 125. I own one and whenever I take it for a ride it brings a smile on my face. The way it accelerates is fun. Only problem I faced is the worst service centers. Apart from that access is a great scooter.
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For me it is the fz16. Underpowered yes. Always felt needed more power. The best part to me about this bike is the way it handles. It's like dancing with your partner. Getting in sync. And she syncs well.
The way the bike goes into the corners, that sense of stability and corner it carries. Amazing. I have memories of overtaking bikes, cars, Rickshaws in corners.
Where they went slow, I could just overtake them. It was a budget Mt 15 before the real Mt 15🤣 love it.
True! Yamaha should have given the FZ(16) more performance by now because the basis of a sweet commuter is there!
For me, my benchmark bike will be KTM 390 - 2022
Slippers clutch, Ride by wire, wheel base, and the sharp stunning look... Oh my gawdd.... She is the one
I see you talk about your 390 passionately makes me glad about my choice
Now that's need to go on a t shirt, "Practicality! Buy a car man. If you want to live get a 390."
Haha! Great idea!
I've been riding bikes for a few years but started with cars only recently. And given that our family car is a harrier, my benchmark was set high. All changed when I drove my cousins Nexon. I love diesel engines and really appreciate the effortless power that harrier provides but that clutch is straight from hell. Experiencing a light clutch, sharp handling and more than adequate power of the Nexon gave me a new found respect for compact SUVs. So much so given the choice i would personally choose Nexon over harrier(family's opinions aside)
Edit: I'm living in Europe currently and don't have the freedom of my own vehicle. I always enjoyed taking test rides of new bikes i was excited by, love the series of yt shorts you guys make. Keeps me connected to the desi gadis.
Thanks for sharing Tejas! Glad you're taking test rides! Hopefully you'll have your own machine soon!
Vehicles spelling needs change in the thumbnail
Done! Thanks for pointing it out!
@@motorinc well done team 👍
very reliable i can. i own the v2 and 1 lakh kms done till date and changed clutch plates at 85000 kms for rupees 400. nothing else. routine maintainance chain, brakes etc comes very cheap. changed battery only once this year after 6 years never had battery issue. great experience with it now waiting for the r3. not gonna sell the r15 though.
Exactly! ♥️
RX100 & POLO GT - without mentioning these LOVES, this conversation is incomplete, who all think so?
Over rated stuff these two don’t talk about. Polo gt ❌ abarth punto ✅
@@akashpalani216 In India, Polo GT had more cultural impact than Abarth Punto. This video is about that impact, right?
The Polo/Vento and their DSG and the beautiful 1.6/1.5 TDI. Daily drivers that became madness. Man that 1.2L TSI + DQ200 7 speed DSG had people hooked to tuning cars which initiated a revolution and a car culture! the City and the Octavia did have its moments in the 2000s but this was a full blown change!
Karthikeya’s English is so much better to understand.. the other guy needs to slow down and stop talking English like Hindi😂
Thanks for the feedback @YOURS1
Shumi, you are a morden day legend of Indian automobile journalism, you don't have to reply to such jerks.
You guys are simply awesome.. The calm discussions and very meaningful conversations about vehicles is brilliant.. I have stopped watching individual review videos of vehicles and watch your videos only.. Keep it coming.. 😀
Thank you so much!
I watched this episode closer to when it came out. I am watching it again now because despite all of the mammoth knowledge these guys have accumelated over the years, it feels like a conversation, I , a non techincal guy can relate to. I just hope this channel doesn't fade away and you folks continue on the path you began on. Cheers bro 🍻
Thank you so much @ਰੋਹਿਤਸ਼ਰਮਾ-ਭ8ਰ
Amazing episode. I generally don’t watch a RUclips video nowadays for more than 2 mins. But watching you episodes without a break. I think one great benchmark is the Chevy Cruze which was quite affordable and amazing bang for the buck as it just blew the C segment cars out of the water.
Thanks Suraj! The Cruze’ turbo diesel engine was wonderful! ❤️
To me, the R15 V2 represents the ultimate benchmark, not only because of its performance but also because of the memories it holds. It was back in 2015, during my first year of university, when my best friend and I moved to the city together. He owned a CBR250, and I remember feeling excited about this new chapter in our lives. It was a time of joy and new beginnings, like a song that when you hear it again, takes you back to that special moment. Thinking about it now makes me feel so happy.
You and so many youngsters all over the country!
both are legends I used to own a v2 and rode twice my friends 250r .... Man I relate to you so much ... more or less the same story and same bikes
@@chinmaytikhe1643 memories to cherish forever and be nostalgic.
Damn that's nice to hear.
same here , but I have 09 v1. still rules the streets. still goes on rides and hold on with bigger bikes. but when twisties come the boss music starts.
We bought the 1st gen Figo diesel just before the launch of 2nd gen. Clocked 1.6 lac km in 8 years and still counting. It is the second car in our family and the one on which I learned to drive. It’s only after driving other cars from the same segment I realised what a quality car we have.
Ford left India just a month after my father told me “Ab next Ecosports hi lenge”. Such a sore scar we have there.
Oh no! What timing! On the flip side, glad you're enjoying your car!
Great podcast as always loved it ❤ mine my dad's OG vespa 2 stroke, CBZ, R15V2, and now speed twin 1200 (2022). In cars always fan of vtec first gen honda city (i actually have a poster), ford Mondeo, and lastly lancer. I have memories of my neighbour owning RX100 and suzuki samurai when i was a kid and god the sound, it always made me peek the bike through the window. Thank you for bringing some memories back.❤
No worries! Glad we woke up memories for your Vijay!
Opel Vectra needs a special mention in terms of creating a benchmark for tech in cars. It was way ahead of its time, and threw real good punches at the C-series, A4 & 3-series available at that time
I may sound like an abarth fanboy but man that scorpion abarth punto was just phenomenal. Surely gearbox was not light and took a while to get used to that heavy and clunky gearbox but when you get the hang of it, even the mighty polo gti would had a tough time against that scorpion. Also the figo s and Baleno rs were those serious enthusiastic car sadly no one bought it then and now we can only remember those. Rightly said by shumi sir that now when the people are quite mature and there are more young enthusiasts these projects will make more sense and if brands stick by those projects it will be an amazing thing. Introduction of things like an option for short throw shifter in the models would be amazing.
Spot on Manthen!
I feel the shogun as benchmark for fun, raw power motorcycle in it's segment. Everytime I think it can't do this, it surprises how easily it does. The yezdi roadking changed my perception when I took it on a mountain trail with above medium track where himalayan, xpulse, 390 adventure struggling to keep a pace, falling down and getting stuck. But this old machine easily made up the 2.5 km mountain without even stopping, falling or even bottoming out. That day it opened a whole new world what this beauty can do. Suzuki fiero with it torquey power if fitted with right tires was a competitor for Impulse. The first generation of Karizma showed me how a simple 220cc engine can be so smooth, reliable, bulletproof and exiting every single day. Hats off to those motorcycles, scooters and cars which moved Indian automobile industry and few who were literally awesome but couldn't get the recognition. Had real fun watching this podcast. Cheers!!!
Great to read your message! Thanks a ton!
Another great podcast episode. Completely agree with Swift, Figo D, and R15. I missed Linea Tjet. Great looks, great handling and powerful engine.
and Rtr 160/200 is the fun bike for masses. R15 spares are expensive and yamaha service is really bad. Consumables like brake pads, disks don't last long. Ive 1st gen r15 with 1.5+L kms. All great, but the service in my city is very poor. Hence decided to never recommend yamaha to anyone.
On the other hand RTR gives almost 90% of the fun at cheaper price and with much better headlight. And that exhaust note.. wow
Another surprise for me was the R15 Stock tyres. The 100/80 R17 rear tyre had way more grip than every 120/80 R17 tyre at that time. Sadly MRF doesn't make them now.
Thanks for letting us know Ashish! Helps us recommend/dissuade people too!
need a podcast on accidents and how to deal with them, basic first aid, what medical supplies to pack, etc
Great suggestion!
My first bike was FZs battle green. It was ICONIC. It was the most reliable machine I ever had!
Seems all good but my take on the same topic:
Some of the category-creating beauties
Scooters:
Honda Dio / Kinetic Blaze - Showed us that scooters can be fun
Bikes:
RX 100 -Two-stroke rocket which puts a smile on your face till today.
CBZ - Journey of Indian bikes from commuter to enthusiast
Pulsar 220 - the fastest India and best value for a buck for an enthusiast (First in the segment above 20hp)
R15 - Showed us what cornering fun is! and entry to all small displacement sports
RE Thunderbird - Even if the classic opened it up but Thunderbird made it a perfect cruiser (Touring was born in India)
KTM Duke 390 - Fist ever mid-size pure naked sport, paved the way for all mid-large size bikes in India
Cars:
Zen - Undoubtedly Mumbaidrift casting contender
Lord Alto - It can take everything and it's proof that you don't need to sell your house to do an all-India road trip
Mitsubishi Lancer/ Cedia - India never experienced a balanced chassis and sweet-sounding engine like this
Chevrolet Cruze - The turbo diesel Monster which gave birth to turbo lag-loving Indians
Ford Ecosport - The real sub-4 category creator and I think best in class tourer
Ford Fiesta - Already covered
Tata Safari - Real SUV category creator
Toyota Qualis/Innova - MPV like never before which can take it all and a pure miles hogger
Mahindra Bolero - Official SUV of rural India
VW Polo - Swift did the groundwork but this beauty just set the hot hatch market for us
Skoda Octavia - Introduction to DSG/Dual clutch to India and with that 2 ltr diesel it was a tank
That's a great list, Prasanna! Very comprehensive! ♥️
I owned a Pulsar 180 and I felt it was a such a fun and forgiving bike. During my college days when money was tight I used to not put that bike for service for 8-9 months. I remember I once serviced the bike after a year and it never gave me a major problem. Many mechanics told me to change the piston and the piston block back in those days all the mechanics used to say that for Bajaj bikes, be it Pulsar, Discover or XCD, I never changed it and after 12yrs with that bike I did not complaint. Infact sold it at a decent cost. During that time my friend had an Apache RTR, to be honest I found it's handling much more sportier, the pegs were high, it was nimble and handling was better but that bike was not so good at higher RPMs. My benchmark from the Pulsar became a forgiving bike that could do all things with me and not just few things. And so currently I own a Bullet Std 500, believe it or not even that is almost the same 😊
Wow! Nice garage Bumpy Stories!
I loved this episode allot , I think this subject(Cars & Motorcycles That Changed the Game) deserves whole season not just one episode.
Hmmm... maybe a revisit is needed in the next season of the podcast!
Ecosport (and also Vitara Brezza): Created the sub 4 mtr mid size SUV segment in India which now flourishes elegantly.....Secondly, we talk about Motorcycles changing the game but miss out on any of the Enfields? Bullet 350? Classic 350? Thunderbird? RE taught the Desi crowd that "Not all cool bikes are sports bikes"
These are our reference points - the ones we use to measure what’s possible as we test new vehicles. Maybe we should do a history-focusssed podcast episode that talks about the industry too!
@@motorinc That'd be great!
Glad you talked about Pulsar. I have owned the 150,200 and 220fi. And all 3 were amazing machines