Mahindra Centuro
Bike Tested: 2013 Mahindra Centuro
Price OTR Mumbai: Rs. 57,600/-
The Mahindra Centuro comes with features which are out of the box.
Mahindra is best known for producing big, diesel powered utility vehicles that have earned them the title of the third largest four-wheeler manufacturer in the country today. However, they do not produce a single four-wheeler that runs on petrol (except the Verito). Mahindra wants to make every drop of petrol count by entering the two-wheeler market. The Mumbai based manufacturer’s foray into the two-wheelers continues. It started with scooters then came the new Pantero that replaced the Stallio and now, the Centuro. A feature-loaded motorcycle that doesn’t have segment first but industry first features which are set to make its way into the Indian market. The Mahindra Centuro has a similar name to a series of comic heroes (Centurions) who were loaded to gills with advanced technologies to fight crime. So how does this Centuro fare? We ride in the hills of Chandigarh to find out!
Styling – The Mahindra Centuro uses the same panels as the Pantero. Albeit, there are significant changes to the Centuro which distinguishes it apart. The headlight is a lot bolder and bigger in comparison and comes with LED parking lights. People with sharp memory would know that the headlight cowl and LED pilot lamps resemble the previously launched TVS Phoenix. The twin-molded bars, which connect one side to the other, was first seen on the concept Mojo and adds a distinct flavor to the motorcycle. The tank, tailpiece, LED tail lights and the grab handle are the same cycle parts used on the Pantero. If you look closely, you will find the indicators on the Mahindra Centuro are slightly bolder than the one on the Pantero to compliment the front fascia of the bike. There are no fancy foot rests here but there is a small engine belly fairing to make things better. Fit-finish, build quality and paint job are excellent.
Instrument Cluster and Switch Gear – The three-pod digital instrument cluster looks refreshing and centrally placed analog tachometer is always welcome. A segment first feature on the Mahindra Centuro includes a complete digital speedometer, two trip meters, service reminder, clock and distance to empty feature. The usual shift light, high beam and solitary indicators are placed above the meters. Switchgear on the Centuro is top notch and comes with a pass switch too. The Centuro also comes with a unique key fob that is loaded to the gills. The key fob has a LED torch and has three unique features such as guide me home headlight (stays on for 30 seconds), a buzzing sound with indicators flashing to find your motorcycles in parking spots and an engine immobilizer which works when the onboard system detects a false key is being used to start the engine and it sounds the alarm.
[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/9372812326/[/flickr]
Ergonomics – The seating position is upright and not very wide making it very comfortable. The foot pegs are placed rear set for a comfortable ride. The rear view mirrors do the job very well and give a good view of what is behind. Seat base is long, wide the cushioning is excellent. The tank has been well scooped out for thigh support. Overall, long journeys are comfortable enough on the Mahindra Centuro.
[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/9372816114/[/flickr]
Performance and Gearbox – The Mahindra Centuro is powered by an all new single-cylinder, over-square, 106cc, 2-valve engine which produces 8.5 BHP of peak power at 7500 RPM and 8.5 Nm of torque at 5500 RPM. The engine is revv happy, smooth and NVH levels are excellent. The engine has sufficient low end grunt. The motor strongly pulls in the mid range and it has a top speed of 90 km/hr. The 4-speed gearbox is smooth but after all day abuse you do find it a bit clunky at times. Gear ratios are on the taller side but there is adequate low end grunt to navigate in the city. The engine cleanly revs up to 9000 RPM. The Mahindra Centuro shares the same engine and same output figures as the Pantero but there are subtle changes. The Centruo has an all new CDI with revised intake and exhaust timing for better driveability. The Centuro also comes with a patent lubrication system which is termed as “jet flow” by Mahindra which ensures oil circulation at any RPM speed, low or high RPM. Mahindra claims the Centuro has the highest mileage in the segment which is an astonishing 85.4 km/l. One can expect 68 km/l in real world riding.
[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/9370034789/[/flickr]
Riding Dynamics – The Mahindra Centuro comes equipped with the same chassis as the Pantero. A double cradle frame with telescopic suspension at the front and five-step adjustable rear shocks, which are backed by 18-inch wheels and have grippy MRF tyres slapped on to them. Factor in the light kerb weight of 110 kgs and a short wheelbase of 1265 mm and you get a very agile motorcycle. It stays planted in the sweepers and turns quickly into corners. A major credit goes to the tyres for the superb dynamics, excellent grip in wet and dry conditions. Ride quality is fantastic, the bike glides over potholes and broken roads and even the biggest bumps do not upset the balance of the motorcycle. The 130 mm drum brakes at the front are not that great and one expects to have disc brake as an option on this feature-laden bike, which Mahindra says is in pipeline. However the rear brakes do the job well. High speed stability is excellent and there is minimal windblast.
[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/9370035787/[/flickr]
Verdict – The Mahindra Centuro enters the premium 100-110 cc segment that is fast growing and is being recently tapped by mainstream manufacturers as well. The Centuro is an excellent motorcycle for point A to point B commuting offering class leading equipment, comfort and value to the prospective customer. However, the lack of awareness, shortage of after sales service network and long-term reliability remains a question. The Mahindra Centuro does come with a generous 5-year warranty that should bring some peace of mind to the customer. The real battle will commence once niche brands like Hyosung enter the market with a competitive product range. If you have a Mahindra dealership around you and you strive for something out of the box then the Centuro is worth a glance.
The Mahindra Centuro is a premium commuter motorcycle for those who want something different.
[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/9370039643/[/flickr]
What’s Cool
* Mileage
* Features
* Dynamics
What’s Not So Cool
* Low service network
* Unproven reliability
[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/9370042119/[/flickr]
Mahindra Centuro Specifications
* Engine: 106.7cc, air-cooled, 4-stroke engine, MCI-5
* Power: 8.5 PS @ 7500 RPM
* Torque: 8.5 Nm @ 5500 RPM
* Transmission: 4-speed manual
* Top Speed: 91 km/h
* Fuel Consumption: 60 km/l
* Fuel Type: Petrol
* Frame Type: Double cradle steel tubular structure
* Suspension: Telescopic Fork (Front), Coiled 5-step adjustable (Rear)
* Tyres: 2.75/18 (Front), 3.0/18 (Rear)
* Brakes: 130 mm drum (Front), 110 mm drum (Rear)
* Headlamp: 12 V – 35W/35W
Mahindra Centuro Dimensions
* Overall length x width x height: 2031 mm X 780 mm X 1110 mm
* Wheelbase: 1265 mm
* Seat Height: 805 mm
* Ground Clearance: 173 mm
* Fuel Tank Capacity: 12.7-litres
* Kerb weight: 120 kgs
