2-wheeler makers shift focus towards scooters

AUTO Expo 2014 revealed increasing competitive intensity in scooters, premium bikes and entry level sedans. While executive segment motorcycles lacked the zing, premium bike riders would be spoilt for choices from not only Hero and Bajaj Auto but also Harley, Triumph and Aprilia. Hero showcased 3 new scooters; Honda, TVS, Suzuki, Yamaha are all launching a scooter each to enhance their portfolio. The entry and executive segment motorcycles lacked the zing this season with no notable launches/showcases. The limelight was taken by scooters where Hero Motocorp surprised us with 3 launches - while the 110cc Dash was expected to be showcased, we did not expect the showcasing of the the 125cc Dare (we feel this could be a volume garnering product) and the 150cc Zir, both of which look quite good. Honda, TVS, Suzuki, Yamaha are all launching a scooter each to enhance their portfolio – Honda’s 125cc Activa and TVS 110cc Scooty could definitely add further volumes for the respective OEMs. Bajaj Auto as expected gave the segment a miss. Premium bike riders too are likely to be spoilt for choices with both Hero and Bajaj Auto further adding to their portfolios with Hero adding 220cc/250cc products and Bajaj Auto going further premium with 400cc products.