UM to announce JV, India plans, on Sep 26

It’s a niche segment – the sub-2 lakh cruiser motorcycle segment – and one that has been held on to steadily by the likes of Bajaj Avenger and Royal Enfield Thunderbird 350. There are no high volumes here like the 100-125cc or even the 150cc segments, but cruisers have a market in India, and it’s only Bajaj and Royal Enfield who are holding the roost in this particular bracket. 

This is where UM Motorcycle wants to make an entry with its debut product in India – the Renegade Commando. Powered by a 225cc single cylinder, air cooled motor capable of churning out 18PS of peak power at 8,000 revs and 15.5 Nm torque at 5,500, the Renegade Commando has figures which are par for the course. 

But it’s the pricing which will be key to UM’s fortunes in India – and the Commando is expected to be priced around Rs 1.5 lakh – squarely pitting it against the Bajaj Avenger 220 and the Royal Enfield Thunderbird 350. Good news indeed for cruiser lovers in India and for those who want a cruiser with a slightly ‘different’ look than the ones already on offer in the market.

The Renegade Commando has traditional cruiser design cues – tear drop shaped tank, raised wide handlebars and a low seat with brake and gear controls spread out for a stretched, feet-front, relaxed riding position. The bike looks upmarket and for a 225cc cruiser, it actually looks bigger than what its engine displaces.

India is going to be a crucial market for UM. The Renegade cruisers generated a lot of interest when the bikes were showcased first at the 2014 Auto Expo. The company is upbeat about its prospects, particularly with its first few offerings the Renegade Commando and the Renegade Sport. And they have good reason to. Since the unveiling at the Auto Expo, the Renegade Cruisers still continue to generate a lot of interest among bike lovers here. 

And we have had numerous queries from readers about launch dates and prices of UM bikes. What will be crucial to the company’s success however, is more than just an attractive price tag. For the value conscious Indian consumer, a well spread out sales and service network, easy availability of spares and cost of ownership still remain foremost concerns while going in for a two wheeler purchase. And it is these areas where UM India will have to focus on to grab a solid foothold in the Indian two wheeler industry.