The Saluto is expected to help Yamaha India increase sales in the 125cc segment which the YBR and SS 125 failed to achieve in the past.
Having shifted its focus towards scooters in recent times, Yamaha India is now coming back to the motorcycle segment and will launch the new Saluto 125 in the country on 17th April. With its current two offerings, the SS 125 and the YBR 125 having failed to make an impression in the market, the Saluto 125 commuter motorcycle is expected to succeed as it competes against the Honda Shine 125, TVS Phoenix and the likes. Expect a starting price of Rs. 50,000/- (ex-showroom) on the Saluto.
As seen in the spy shot, the Yamaha Saluto comes with a no-frills design language and gets a clean styling with an elongated single seat for added comfort. The bike comes equipped with alloy wheels, telescopic front forks and coil springs at the rear while stopping power will come from drum brakes at the front and rear. In terms of power, the 123cc single-cylinder, air-cooled motor from the SS 125 is likely to power the Saluto as well, producing 10.88 PS of power at 7500 RPM and 10.40 Nm of torque at 6500 RPM, paired to a 4-speed gearbox.
Going by the plain nature of the Saluto, Yamaha is likely to position it below the YBR 125 in its lineup. Emphasis will also be on enhanced fuel efficiency which is expected to surpass the 65 km/l mark on the Saluto. While Yamaha enjoys a strong brand value in the 150cc and above sports segment, the company is still trying to hold ground against the more established players that do impressive numbers in comparison in the mass market space.
