Bajaj Auto has launched the Discover 125 ST motorcycle in Tamil Nadu. The automaker seems to be following a phased launch strategy with its new offerings. The Pulsar 200 NS was initially offered in Maharashtra and just last week the Pulsar 200 NS was launched in Delhi. Bajaj aims to offer the Pulsar 200 NS across India by August and is following a similar strategy with the Discover 125 ST which will first be offered in the South. The Bajaj Discover 125 ST is priced at Rs. 55,740/- (ex-showroom, Tamil Nadu), while the regular Discover 125 has not been discontinued and retails at a price of Rs. 51,127/-.
The Bajaj Discover 125 ST is powered by a 125cc, 4-valve, DTS-i engine which produces 13 BHP of peak power and 10.8 Nm of peak torque. The company claims the Discover ST will return atleast 65 km/l in normal riding conditions. It will compete with Honda’s CB Shine, while Honda is also developing a low cost 125cc bike, which will be positioned in the Dream series. The Discover ST is the next generation of the Discover and also features first in the segment monoshock rear suspension. It has also received an all new digital instrument cluster, petal disc brakes at the front and a new alloy wheel design.
Bajaj Auto and Honda’s battle for number two will see an interesting turn as both manufacturers continue to bring new products in the market to woo customers to their stable. Honda benefits vastly from scooter sales (where it has a 44% market share), while Bajaj Auto benefits from high localization of parts and a good dealership network. Honda will be opening up dealership inquiries later this month and plans to open more outlets, including 10 zonal offices in the country.
