Delhi Auto Expo 2012 : Mahindra 2 Wheeler showcase plans

Mahindra 2 Wheelers India may want to put memories of 2011 behind them as quickly as possible. After all, this wasn't the greatest year for them in terms of sales (more on that later). At the upcoming Auto Expo, Mahindra may look to play to its strengths, showcasing its racing prowess and raising awareness about its two-wheelers. So, aside from showing its Mojo (pun intended) and the Stallio from the existing line-up, Mahindra will also showcase the 2012 MotoM3 bike called the MGP30 (pronounced three oh) and the just-launched 125 cc Mahindra Duro DX. Adding to the wow factor would be another race bike, the Mahindra MotoGP 125 cc.

Developed jointly with specialist two-wheeler design firm Engines Engineering, the Mahindra MGP30 features a tubular steel frame and aluminium swing arm. The engine is a Mahindra-homologated 250cc, single-cylinder unit that has been developed with assistance from Oral Engineering. Mahindra is the first Indian company to enter MotoGP. It ended its 2011 debut season by claiming pole position at the last race of the season (125 cc class) in Valencia while emerging third in the Constructors' Championship. It was in Valencia that Mahindra first showcased the Moto3 bike.

The other important two-wheeler to watch out for at the Mahindra stand is the recently launched 125 cc Duro DZ. The model has already been launched in some southern Indian states at a price of Rs. 45,235 (ex-showroom, Karnataka) and is set to make its debut in Delhi at the Expo. The Duro DZ sports the same 125 cc engine as the older Duro (which will continue to sell along with the DZ). Enhancements include a digital ignition system, rear brake lock lever, halogen headlamp for a wider beam and telescopic forks for a more stable ride.

Mahindra will look to the Duro DX and the rest of its fleet to lift its dismal sales record in the coming year. The company reported sales of 1,00,268 units during the April to November 2011 period, down 7.06% compared to 1,07,888 units in the same month last year.

Two Wheeler                                                                                                             Competitor

Mahindra Stallio: Rs. 44,650*                                            Hero Motocorp Glamour: Rs. 50,500*

Mahindra Duro: Rs. 41,842                                          Hero MotoCorp Pleasure: Rs. Rs. 40,250*