The Discover series is essential in Bajaj Auto’s lineup and the company has planned new models for 2014. The company now plans to compete in the 150cc commuter segment with the upmarket flagship Discover that could be called the Discover F150 as we see in these spy shots. The Discover F150 gets a quarter fairing similar to the Pulsar 220F, and the likes of Honda Stunner and Hero Ignitor it will be competing with.
Bajaj will be using the Discover’s new platform with parts for the F150 coming from the Discover and Pulsar parts bin. The frame and cycle parts are said to come from the Discover 125 ST which include a front disc brake, wide and comfortable seating and a monoshock rear suspension setup. The Discover F150 will get electric as well as a standard kick starter as well as a black glossy finish for the exhaust and web-spoked alloy wheels.
The upcoming Discover F150 will be powered by a 150cc, single-cylinder, 4-valve, DTS-i engine that will be capable of producing around 14 PS of power. The motorcycle is largely aimed at the 150cc premium commuter segment and will not be a sport performer. The bike will be positioned below the Pulsar 150 in the segment to compete with the commuter range, while the Pulsar takes on the TVS Apache RTR 160, Yamaha FZ-S and Hero Xtreme. This would be the Discover’s second innings in the 150cc segment. The 135 and 150 Discovers were discontinued earlier by the company. We have actually lost count on how many Discovers have come and gone!
Bajaj will mostly price the Discover F150 at a marginal premium than the Honda Stunner when launched. A naked version, probably called N150 is also said to be on the cards. The launch of the Discover F150 is expected sometime around the festive season this year. We could see a bit of cannibalisation in sales with the Discover and the Pulsar being in the same 150cc segment. However, both the products will be catering to a different target audience.
Source – Overdrive.in