I am going to be speaking at the upcoming blogging workshop at 91 Springboard, Bandra Kurla Complex in Mumbai on 27th of April, 2018. It was an impromptu session organized thanks to a lot questions being exchanged in our driving group from RTC (RoadTrippersClub). As I was answering questions along with Neeraj dada (Yayawar), someone suggested that we should meet once so that we all can learn. This was on Monday morning.
Divyakshi Gupta blogs at http://www.quirkywanderer.com/
Vishnu works with and manages the site https://scoutmytrip.com
Neeraj is the CTO of ScoutMyTrip.com and is a tech giant in his right
Hemal curates content on Indianomics and Indianomics.tv
Flash forward to the evening, we have the event creative ready and a place to meet arranged thanks to 91 Springboard. They were generous enough to help host the event, helping us to keep the session at zero cost! Nothing is better than lending a hand to spearhead learning and I wholeheartedly appreciate the 91 Springboard team at Bandra-Kurla Complex!
Agenda for Blogging Workshop
So here is the agenda for the workshop, where we have speakers like Divyakshi Gupta and Parampara, mights in their own right in travel and social media respectively. And then there is your’s truly, where I am going to talk about Content, Design and Video in the blogging world.
Agenda at The blogger on the run Blogging Workshop
How to register for this Workshop?
The workshop is being organized by Road Trippers Club and there is no fee! Yes, it is free of cost to attend. If you are interested, then login in to RoadTrippesClub.com and register yourself today. Hurry, we only have limited seats left.
I have been posting videos on Indianomics TV since October last year. Starting with Tata Hexa review (very armature), I have now added 34 videos on various topics, predominantly Cars & Bikes.
Here is a playlist I have created with all of the best performing videos. Do not forget to like, share and subscribe to my YouTube channel.
Here is an overview of videos!
1. Tata Hexa Sound and Music System Review
Tata Hexa’s much touted audio system is awesome and among the best in a class even higher than where Hexa is positioned. The 10 JBL speakers produce clean sound that makes your ride enjoyable.
Song played in the video is Dada Dasse Re from movie Udta Punjab.
2. Tata Hexa Off Roading capabilities
Tata Hexa is an upcoming car from Tata Motors. The video here captures its off-roading capabilities using various drive mode and hill assist.
At invitation of Tata Motors, ~60 bloggers met in Delhi to review the all new Tata Tigor, the styleback car. Based on Tiago, Tigor is a compact sedan that looks absolutely great. The car looks stunning and had a lot of passerby interested in it! We even had a review on the fly from one of them!
‘This is not your normal review but an experience of Tigor Styleback event!
In this video, we drive from Aerocity in Delhi to Gurgaon in Tata Tigor Petrol and Diesel engined cars – en route visiting the Heritage Museum. My co-partners at the media drive were the gorgeous Dimpi Sanghvi and Venkatramana Manoharan
4. TATA TIGOR Acceleration – Indianomics
Tata Motor’s new Tigor will be launched on 29th of March. This video captures the acceleration of the Tigor petrol engine car that I drove from Delhi to Haryana.
5. A Day In Park with my die cast car models
I took out my small collection of die cast models of marquee cars and here is the result. Few nice pictures and videos that is fun. Though the video has not clocked as much views, I personally get a great satisfaction watching my die cast cars jumping and getting crazy at a children’s park near my place.
6. Why you should wear a helmet! Bhandardhara Accident live recording
PS: The date was not set on the cam, hence 2016. Incident happened on 24 June 2017.
Video taken by Shiv Vishwakarma, my friend who rode with us to Bhandardhara. We had stopped at a location where I had shot video previously, exactly when we saw this accident happen on the curve ahead.
A Hero Honda CD 100 was hit by Red Maruti WagonR who took a long turn. Both were to blame, primary though was the Wagon R who took the wrong side. The biker was not wearing a helmet (common across in the rural side, like this one) and had his headphone on.
It did not appear that his outer injuries were life-threatening, with no way we could identify inner impact. We stopped a few vehicles but no one was interested in helping. After about 4-5 mins, a small pick up truck came by and agreed to help take him to the nearest hospital. We ensured the driver of WagonR, an old man, accompany him to the hospital as well.
The video was shot last year by Tata Hexa team! All credits to Tata Motors to get out all the blogger videos out on their YouTube Channel. I do not know WHY I NEVER SAW THIS! They uploaded them two months after the event, may be that is why? Haha… here is uploading it on my channel for all my subscribers to see.
They got my blog name wrong! The URL shown in the video is pre-2009 domain blog and I wonder from where they got it.
8. Mumbai to Kerala on Himalayan and Dominar – Road trip to God’s Own Country
So my fellow TGW wolf, Tyjo Thomas got 7 days off on a short notice. He decided to go on a solo ride to Kerala and back. When he shared it with us, I was quick to decide that I should go along. Thus, with 3 days to go, I started my prep for the ride.
Subscribe to the channel, click on the bell button so you are among the first ones to watch them!
Write up of this part of the video, Mumbai to Kerala, is now available at my blog. It has in very detail, the entire route plan and our experiences. Music Credits: https://www.bensound.com
9. Mumbai – Kerala – Mumbai: A Photo Journey
Pictures from our recent road trip to Kerala by Hemal and Tyjo on Himalayan and Dominar. Route map and other details are in the follow up video, including the epic Wayanad Choram
I always wanted to go to Kerala on a bike and never thought I will ever do it, though I still wished I could. I had created many plans for a ride but was always quick enough to drop it. It always seemed like a distant dream that I felt I lacked enough guts to achieve. The last year has been challenging one for me in many ways, and my current situation only accentuates the impossibility of me undertaking such a ride.
My friend and a fellow wolf from Throttle Gun Wolves, Tyjo decided to go on a solo trip to Kerala on his Dominar. It was a quick decision on his part, and he was leaving on the third day, from the day he informed me. I decided to join him in his plan and make a lemonade of the lemons life threw at me. More the merrier!
Is there a video of this ride?
Yes, there is one you can watch. Head over to Indianomics TV channel on YouTube. Also, do not forget to subscribe to the channel so that YouTube can inform you of my next video.
There is another video of our pictures from the ride, which I had compiled and posted on the Indianomics YouTube channel if you would like to see some of these photos.
Preparing for the ride to Kerala
The next day both Himalayan and Dominar visited the service center and the day after I pimped up my Yeti. The typical, aux lights, a rear strobe light, and a phone holder with UBS charging port. I also got an SMK Twister helmet, replacing my aging LS2, and included a Bluetooth headset so that I can be in touch with my 3-year-old daughter and listen to the maps aunty barking directions.
Route from Mumbai to Kerala
Both Tyjo Thomas and I had different destinations – I wanted to go to Alleppey, my hometown and Tyjo wanted to go up to Kanyakumari. However, we always doubted if his family in Chalakudy will let him go there. Tyjo ended up touring places around Chalakudy, including the famous Athirapally waterfalls.
Our rides – motor bikes
Tyjo Thomas owns a Bajaj Dominar 400 that he got some months ago. Dominar 400, based on the KTM390, heavily modified for cursing comfort and mild on-road manners by Bajaj. It is a bike that has potential to challenge Royal Enfield’s rule in this 350+ CC segment.
I own a Royal Enfield Himalayan. If you are regular here, then I am sure you will know about it. I call the Himalayan as Yeti, and there are tons of things I have already spoken about my bike.
Riding rules
We were clear on a few things before the ride started.
We will not be riding in the night, though start as early as possible in the mornings.
Do approximately 600 to 650 kilometers a day at the max, which ensured we are not too tired and have enough flexibility to take longer breaks.
Ride consistent speeds averaging around 80-90 KMPH
Spend money on only absolute necessity.
PS: We did break one law though, by riding on the Mumbai Pune expressway.
Capturing the beauty
We met another wolf Nikhil Deshmukh who helped arrange for two SJCAMs on loan, for us to record our trip, which was a huge favor that he did for us – for you can see in the video, we managed to capture a few clips that left us in awe. After the ride, my daughter has seen these videos again and again, and I love it every time it throws a smile on her face.
Two SJCAMs – thanks to Nikhil
One Sunco Cam – thanks to Shiv, though I could not use it as a backup camera throughout my trip due to a faulty memory card
My beloved iPhone 6s, Lumia 950XL
Prepping our bikes
Given that this is the longest ride I have done, it was imperative that I take Yeti to the service center for a thorough check-up. I was close to my 4th service anyways, so decided to go ahead and do it as well. Royal Enfield’s Pooja Motors service center immediately prioritized my servicing request, since the ride was just two days away.
Likewise, Tyjo also got his Dominar serviced the previous day. Given his tight work schedule, he did not have the liberty to get things done as I did.
After the servicing was done, armed with a new magneto coil replaced voluntarily by the SC, I took the bike to pimp it up a bit the next day. I needed fog lamps installed on Yeti, just in case we need to ride in the dark. My focus was to ensure that I am not distracting the drivers/riders from the opposite side, but make sure I am visible enough.
Thankfully, I got a fog lamp and led white light combination (which I had secretly wished) because the store did not have two fog lamp units readily available. I also upgraded my helmet to an SMK Twister (with a Bluetooth headset) from my existing LS2 (I lost my brand new SOL Infiniti a few months ago in an impossible way) and got a knee guard, something I never had before. I will shortly write up a review of my brand new helmet and how much it helped me during this ride.
Bluetooth headset served two purposes; one, since we relied on maps massively, it was easy to ignore looking into the screen all the time to check if we need to change direction. And two, it helped me be in touch with my daughter without removing my helmet.
What we packed?
Tyjo had got a tail bag, and I got my Wildcraft trekking bag, and a backpack. Both of us carried sleeping bags as we had anticipated sleeping in places that would cost us almost nothing. Even though, we never used them as we managed to find places to stay within our affordable reach.
We carried underwears for seven days and enough tee-shirts, jeans, and shorts to last us three days. We knew we had the opportunity to wash them once we reach our respective destinations.
Both bikes did not have saddle stays, and hence no saddle bags. I packed my backpack with essentials I would need, including my laptop and a backup phone. Based on Tyjo’s experience, we also picked up two dozen of Snikkers for quick bite if required (ended up sharing and eating it with families)
And for the bikes?
For the bikes, I had carried an entire set of Allen key, screwdrivers, and spanners. Tyjo did likewise, though he got his set of Allen keys from Nikhil. We also got a breakdown rope in bright orange from Nikhil, just in case we face some difficulty.
Tyjo also carried a chain spray, and both of us used it. I inadvertently forgot to take RE Chain spray can I had at home. They say at every 500 kms, we should spray the chain and clean it, which we did. I did face issues with the Himalayan, but that will be an individual article, the link you will find here in future.
Day one – Mumbai to Hubbali (Hubli)
We set to ride early in the morning from our respective places at 5.30 am. The bad patches towards Panvel, and the traffic + chaos it caused delayed us a lot. We also did something spectacular though, something we should not have done. We took the Mumbai Pune Expressway after Lonavala. I know, we should not have. Primarily due to map directions (forgot to switch off tolls) and then neither of us ever rode to Pune on a bike before.
Breakfast
We stopped at Pune for a healthy Puneri meal. TGW Wolf Nikhil Deshmukh rode down to meet us and hand over two SJCAMs. Very crucial for our trip, we guessed. As the video shows, it sure was a brilliant idea.
I did carry cam from my friend Shiv, a Sunoco. However, it was my backup in case the SJCAM lost steam or if Nikhil could not manage it for me. After having our breakfast and a quick camera set on Yeti, we were ready to ride. Tyjo forgot to get 3M tape for his helmet mount (again, something that Nikhil got for him), and hence we decided to proceed hoping to buy one at Hubbali.
Kerala Ride to the god’s own country
Kerala Ride to the god’s own country
Kerala Ride to the god’s own country
Kerala Ride to the god’s own country
Kerala Ride to the god’s own country
We rode towards Hubli via Kolhapur. After the initial hiccup in the traffic at Pune, we were soon riding the empty roads. The best section this side of our route was the Satara Ghats. The three-lane ghat roads were super comfortable with traffic, and I could almost corner my Yeti with my knees almost touching the tarmac.
Unfortunately, for a reason unknown, the SJCAM stopped working after I took the first corner – and hence, could not see how I took the rest of them.
Lunch at Jai Hind
We were on time as per our route plan and reached Kolhapur around 1.30 pm and stopped for lunch. And here is where we encountered one of our exceptional hospitality experience in this whole trip at the hotel named Jai Hind, which is off the highway.
Honestly, we were tired. And, yes I forgot to do a lot of things – like asking the guy his name or taking a picture. We were too focused on riding and getting to our destination for the day in time.
As soon as we entered the hotel, this guy (must be around 45, sports an orange beard) escorts us to a place where we can keep all our unmounted luggage. He directs us to the washroom, then to the handwashing area and then asks us to take a breath and think of what we want to eat.
This guy goes about suggesting what is the best that he can offer considering we are riders. He hints on little rice and more of vegetables and egg. We stick to the later, as rice tends to make us sleepy in our routine lives.
Food was nothing to write home about and was average at best. However, the best was yet to come. Tyjo candidly asked if we can rest on our backs on the chairs – and immediately the answer; sleep till evening if you so wish.
The masala tea story
With our backs on the chair and looking up at the ceiling, Tyjo wonders if we should drink tea. I inquire about it. This guy (I seriously am feeling sad not to have asked his name) is quick to say that you will not get the tea as we get in Mumbai.
I prod him for masala tea, instead. Or ginger tea. Of course, they do not serve it there. Not one of the regular requests in this part of the country. After a while of resting when we were about to make our move (oh yes, we forgot about the tea) is when the tea comes in.
And yes, it is masala tea with ginger! We could not believe it, and that brew was fantastic. From expecting a plain tea to forgetting all about it, and then to have this guy deliver what we hoped for – that never was available at first place. The bill was a total of Rs. 260/- for a service that was close to a 7-star treatment for us in pure Hindi!
Do not have words to explain. I will leave it at that.
Stay at Hubbali
We moved ahead towards Hubli. The roads were pretty neat, and we could make it to Hubli in time as per our schedule. 6.30 pm, touch the city. Looking for the place turned out to be tricky, as Maps kept redirecting us. And finally, we made it to Kutchi Bhavan.
Thanks to my friend Jiggu whom I met after 13 long years, we had room to put our heads down. Jignesh also helped us get 3M tapes from Hubli market, and played host to an excellent dinner along with his wife, Darshana. It was my first time meeting her, perhaps not the best impression I could cast!
Day two – Hubbali to Wayanad
Next day, we left early in the morning at 6.00 am, instead of planned 4.30 am! Here on, unfortunately, we did stick to this routine and made it worse. More about that in the text about coming days. The exit was easy from Hubli, and soon we were doing 120 kmph on the empty stretches of highway. Around 8.30 am, we stopped to fill our bellies.
The breakfast cheat
On this ride to Kerala, we forgot we were in Karnataka till we asked for the bill for our meal. Breakfast at a roadside shop next to the second toll booth on our way ended up paying Rs. 280. A meal that should not have cost us more than 100 rupees at a premium. We paid less for an excellent service plus lunch at Kolhapur the previous day. The shopkeeper realized that we weren’t from here, and may have thought that we were riding expensive bikes (well, in a way) so why not ask for the money he wished?
Our mistake? Yes, a big one at that. We did not ask for the price of what we were ordering – so the shopkeeper was free to quote whatever he felt (80 rupees for two liters of bottled water). This place is not a proper hotel, and I am talking about just a roadside shanty shop.
When in Karnataka, always ask for the price first. We decided not to engage in a war of words in a place we did not know the local language to speak. It was not that much worth a risk, given that the area was mostly empty.
Lunch at a Sisidi!
We stopped for lunch at Cafe Coffee Day outlet near a petrol bunk, and that is when I checked my WhatsApp which left a jolt. We need to make it to the entrance of Bandipur National Park before 6 pm. The entry time was not part of our plan – and something that we should not have missed! Darn, if we knew, we would have been a bit less relaxed.
Again, thanks to Nikhil who was informed by Rahil, as he had passed through the area couple of days ago – else we will not be let through the forest area. Suddenly, there was a panic, and we were drifting through plans of what to do in case we don’t make it.
The best option to consider, was to divert to Ooty, though this will mean we will be riding through the mountain in pitch dark. Also, an expensive proposition.
However, soon I realized that we can still make the entrance and we were calculating the estimated time to reach Wayanad as beyond 7 pm, and hence confusing it with entry time at Bandipur which we can approach one and half hour prior.
Bandipur National Park
We gunned the bikes given that the roads and highways were smooth in Karnataka, and were relatively empty. Hardly we faced any traffic on N.H. 48 or other diversions we undertook. We made it to the entry gate to Bandipur National Park by 5.30 pm!!! Hallelujah.
A sigh of relief, both of us stopped to switch on our cameras so we can capture the ride through the jungle. It is in the evenings that elephant herds move across the roads. In the night, the numbers shoot up like crazy, and it is practically impossible to drive or ride through. Let alone; you encounter their wilder side.
It is fascinating to ride through the jungle, with smooth roads. Speed breakers help you slow down. No, not for animals to make you their easy dinner (or play toy if its an elephant), but to stop you from killing them.
As we progressed through, I was lucky enough to miss an elephant crossing by a whisker. I mean like if there was a 2-3 seconds delay and I would have hit an elephant or vice versa. You can see in the video, how close I was! That was perhaps my first encounter with wild animals in the jungle. Of course, I have seen and touched and ridden atop an elephant, all of them were domesticated. So this did send chills down my spine for a few minutes.
Entering the lustfully green Wayanad
In a little while, we knew we were in Kerala – as it started raining heavily (pun intended). From then on, it is a drenched ride! While in the middle of the forest, it started raining. We stopped at the end of the woods, completely drenched, to get our hands on a hot glass of Kerala tea and wait for the storm to pass. It also played its part in delaying us further, as we could not speed up in the twitchy roads (ghats) of Wayand. With no luck on our hopes, we started riding towards my friend Dijosh’s house in Wayanad.
By the time we reached our destination, it was already 7.30 in the evening. It took us another 30-40 mins to unload the bags and remove our safety jackets and knee guards. A hot bath helped refresh us a lot, and the steamy dinner just added to our delight.
Day three – ride to our final destinations in Kerala
I cannot thank Dijosh and his family enough for taking care of us like we are kids. Dijosh and I have been good friends since 2005, and our families know each other well. Tyjo and I ate to our heart’s content the homemade delicacies that both of us always yearned!
The dinner and the early morning breakfast were a feast. The morning meal reveals a ritual unknown to both of us (I am brought up in Kerala, Tyjo is a born Malayali) of eating Puttum Kadalayum with the fabulous Kerala Papadom. I never imagined it before and will ensure I do it every time I am eating Puttum Kadalayum. Loved it that much!
Dijosh and his father escorted us through Wayanad in his brand new Skoda Rapid and visited the Pookode lake. Since we left at 7.30 am, the access gate to the lake was not open yet. We roamed around the roads on the lake bank and turned around to move from Wayanad. Got our luggage from the car, and off we went, saying our goodbyes to our wonderful hosts!
Thamarasherry Churam, Wayanad Dist., Kerala
The moment of madness was to ride via the Thamarasherry Choram – the nine hairpin scenic beauty. During the plan for this ride, Tyjo made it clear that we travel through Wayanad to enter Kerala. Unaware of the extravaganza, our experience at the Churam was wholly impressive. Tyjo had his fill of the beauty of Wayanad, and it is pretty evident from his expression captured with the camera. Hear it in the video posted above. It was perhaps our best ride experience in Kerala.
Wayanad is beautiful, and if you ever get a chance, do visit. Ride from Wayanad to Alleppey was about 300 kms; however, the dangerous condition of roads and the disobedient traffic made it difficult for us to travel. We struggled through Mallapuram and the outskirts of Calicut (Kozhikode) to ride through.
60KMPH Limits
Kerala has the stricter speed limit implementation with speed cameras installed across many of the highway spots. They take a picture of you speeding and courier you a ticket at home. I would not know it anytime soon if the authorities decided to send me one as well, as this takes typically anywhere between one to four months.
We did exceed limits, however not by much. With 5th gear engaged at 60kmph on my RE Himalayan, I could not continuously ride at that speed. It caused unwanted (because I was exhausted) vibrations, which are standard.
Especially after Tyjo and I parted ways, I tried to keep it between 65 and 70 kmph. And at times when I overtake vehicles (many cars too are driven at 60-70 most of the times), I touch 80 kmph. I saw a couple of manned speed guns while doing those speeds but no one stopped me (well, through our entire ride no one stopped us!).
Here is hoping that the guys behind the screens have ignored my peevishly exceeded speed limits.
The traditional Kerala Sadhya for lunch
By noon, we stopped for lunch somewhere in the Thrissur district. It is hard to spot a restaurant that was operating in this area – which did surprise us. The rare one’s we was too crowded for us. Also, the fact that we had to decide whether or not to unload our bags from the bikes mattered in the decision. So hungry as hell, we decided to chance upon the next available place that sold food.
Thus we reached a small, roadside hotel. Eating excellent food, both I and Tyjo were having a blast enjoying the traditional recipes. Tyjo preferred to gorge on the beef dishes, which he missed since the beef ban in Maharashtra. I stuck to my vegetarian stuff – the famous Kerala Sadhya.
The food was delicious, and cheap, as we only spent Rs. 120 for a fulfilling lunch.
The ruined surprise!
My parents and family back in Kerala did not know I was coming! Yes, I did successfully hide that fact. Up until Thrissur, that is. I called up my aunt (dad’s younger sister) to let her know that I was coming and asked her to reach home as well. While I did tell her that it was a surprise, but I guess she didn’t get the right memo. My short-tempered father received me with his anger later!!!
Riding ahead and parting ways
Tyjo and I parted our ways at Thrissur bypass for our respective destinations. We stopped, bid adieu to each other with the promise that we will be in touch soon. Tyjo had already gulped the fact that his family in Chalakuddy is not going to let him ride further south to Varkala and Kanyakumari given the limited time he will be spending with them.
Solo ride to Alleppey
There on, I was riding solo, perhaps the longest solo ride I ever did. Riding through Ernakulam and Aluva was a nightmare due to traffic. The metro seems to have made the traffic situation worse, though I saw little traffic aggression at the lights. Almost everyone was halting before the white line. No cramming of cars and bikes into any space available – it is a departure from what we see in Mumbai-Thane belt. Roads in this part of Kerala are clean and pothole free and enjoyable otherwise.
Soon, I was in familiar territory. I was riding through Aroor and Chertala, the roads that I have seen growing up. I did not need a map through this route, but the continued rain had drained me a lot. Exhausted, I took a break after Pathirapally to tank up and make a few calls.
Reaching my hometown!
As I approach my home, which is just five kms away, I face one of the worst traffic on this route. Cars and trucks hardly moved, and this when I decided to use my Himalayan’s off-road abilities. Riding through knee-deep, filled-with-mud potholes on the side of the road to get rid of the traffic and rush home.
Finally, I reached the place where I grew up, the place that is still living in the 20th century. I passed by my alma mater, Leo XIII H.S.S. and suddenly the fond memories of childhood flashed through, occasionally interrupted by the speed bumps and potholes.
Sure enough, my father was waiting for me – wondering where I was and why I decided to ride a bike all the way to Alleppey. Of course, for family, safety and security of their kids are paramount. Of course, the most substantial portion of the older generation will never understand this stupidity (for them, at least).
Finally, I was home!
Further reading
The write up to the return leg is in the works, so is the ride experience on Himalayan and Dominar. Be sure to visit again in a week’s time to see more of our adventurous ride to Kerala.
Royal Enfield Himalayan BS IV is now available to buy at your nearest show room. I am here to help you ascertain, is it worth the buy and all the hype? Welcome to Indianomics!
Many of the regular readers here do know that I own an RE Himalayan, named Yeti and also the list of issues I have had with it. So it is natural for me to be skeptical about the new Himalayan avatar.
Is there a quick way I can get through this article?
Of course yes, head over to Indianomics TV YouTube channel and subscribe, like, comment and share it with your friends. You can view the video here as well if that helps!
Along with my friend Shiv, I paid a visit to the Royal Enfield Showroom recently to test the new BS IV Version of Himalayan. BS IV or Bharat Stage IV (4 in roman numbers) is the latest emission norm adopted by India to keep a check on the pollution levels. The next stage is BS VI (BS 6) because India has decided to accelerate the emission norms to curb the ever increasing pollution levels in India. It sure is a welcome step.
So what is new with Himalayan BS IV Avatar?
For starters, the BS3 version that launched last year came with the carburetor; the BS IV version comes with Fuel Injection. FI, as it is often abbreviated, helps channel the fuel flow into engine much better thus producing better performance.
Royal Enfield already uses FI system on its Classic and Thunderbird bikes, Himalayan gets it for the first time. Using FI system was the best possible approach for a motorcycle that was launched last year since this would mean the manufacturer does not have to redo the entire engine, while still conforming to the BS IV norms.
So apart from the FI system, there are many changes under the hood but hardly noticeable (for me at least). Almost all of the components have seen an upgrade. Most of them are on my BSIII bike due to various issues that I faced, and Service Center has replaced (updated) them. Of course not the Fuel Injection.
The company claims to have sorted the quality niggles that the first lot of Himalayans saw. One of the reasons the company delayed the launch of this BS IV avatar. Apart from these, the choke moves to handlebar on the left-hand side and the head lamp switches no longer exist thanks to the AHO norms. Read more about AHO (Always Head Lamp On).
On the snow white (color) Himalayan that I test rode, few panels saw a color change to Black. This shift has made them more visible. However, the subtle gray that we saw earlier looked better. Visible appearance is subjective, and I am sure many will love the new black accent tones.
Anything I wish my Yeti had from Himalayan BS IV Model?
Of all things, I will love to have the breaks from BS IV model. The breaks are not the best but are an improvement over the previous model. So, yes I would like to upgrade to the new breaks.
Apart from that, the FI system helps the bike in perform better overall. I am not sure if I wish for the FI system, except for the top end range – you can freely rev upwards of 6k rpm. I am also not sure if it is only the FI system that helps or is there a change in the engine as well? Well, I will wait to figure out.
If the parts on the BS IV are of much better quality, I will hope that Royal Enfield gets them to my bike as well. For the owners of BS3 version, they felt like guinea pigs, who paid to own a product only to find out about the issues it possessed. No better way to pay forward for those suffering than to help upgrade the parts.
This review was primarily comparing the Himalayan BS III v/s Himalayan BS IV model. Hence it omits a few prominent areas like the ride quality and suspension. The shocks on Himalayan are purpose built, and they work to perfection. They do their job brilliantly that the pathetic roads of Indian subcontinent can be a piece of cake, as you can see in the video above.
Another noticeable change is the exhaust note and saree guard. Saree guard has been a joke with Himalayan – pathetic quality. Hope the new design provides a better finish and works well with existing BS3 Himalayans. The exhaust note, on the other hand, sounds much better. Personal choice though this one, but I like it.
As I visited the show room, saw that Himalayan BS IV is the busiest test bike. I happened to meet Vikram, who returned from his test of the BS IV to discuss his experience and out of the blue, asked him if he could get me a review byte, and that he did.
For me, it was important to get another perspective from a non-Himalayan rider. It is easy to get to love the bike if you own it. I felt it will be right to share with you, my dear readers and viewers, a perspective that is unbiased just because I own a Himalayan myself.
Vikram felt the bike was much smoother than the earlier version of the motorcycle he tested. I also offered him to ride the Yeti, and he came back impressed. He wondered if BS IV was better than BS3 model I own! Of course, it is, but the margin is small. Is it worth? Of course yes.
How much for the Himalayan BS IV Version then?
BS IV version costs Rs. 1,98,000 on-road, Kalyan. Now the cost varies across the country, but in the city as well. That is because the dealers sometimes offer three years insurance as part of the deal instead of the standard one. So Rs. 1,91,000 as on-road is correct as well – because it includes only one-year insurance.
Verdict: How good is Himalayan BS IV version?
It is as good as the BSIII version, but better in many departments. Breaks, Fuel Injection, and overall better quality help a great deal in narrowing down the choices. Honestly, there are no choices to be made. If you are looking for an adventure tourer in the sub-two lacs market, look no further. Himalayan is the best option.
Alternatively, if you are looking for more of a tourer and a faster bike, then Dominar may just fit the bill. It is not as sure footed and has the same appeal as the Himalayan, but it will do the job pretty well.
For those who know me, also know that I ended up marrying a stranger I met during the floods of 2005 in Mumbai. It was a dark day, for many who lost lives of loved ones and a livelihood. Some passed away in extremely precarious circumstances, completely avoidable. I have often wondered why Mumbai has this strange connection with floods and rain?
Sure, floods or any other natural or human-made calamity has always brought the citizens together. The bond of a Mumbaikar is seen, often during such unfortunate circumstances. The never dying, ever famous Spirit of Mumbai!
Does Mumbai hate rain because of floods?
For starters, no Mumbaikar’s do not hate rain. Not because of anything to do with rain itself. It is, because of how city transforms itself into after a heavy rain. Choc-a-block traffic snarls, back breaking potholes, speed breakers and general public tendency to skip following rules. The last bit is people’s making, and that gets amplified when they need to get home as soon as possible given the situation. Rather, unfortunate.
Mumbai attracts rain, and it is often bad and sometimes ends up in floods. The sub-urban railway system or the local train is always under stress during rains. Huge delays in train services are common place when it rains heavily. Every year, BMC and other agencies that are supposed to do good work for the city, fail to do so. The most common excuse is the rain itself.
What it looked like?
A collection of videos and pictures shared over WhatsApp is compiled as under, to show you how a few hours of rain wrecks a havoc. Subscribe to my YouTube channel, Indianomics.
So why is Mumbai failing every time?
This year, Radio Jockey Malishka, released a song in a format that has been trending – “Mumbai tula BMC var bharosa nahi ka.” It invoked the ire of BMC’s ruling party members who came up with a response in the same format. It was pathetic, to say the least. It included slur, a threat and it came from a senior leader of the party. BMC also served Malishka’s mother a notice for breeding Mosquitoes at her apartment, as a result.
Mumbaikar’s spirit it unfathomable. They have come up to help themselves right in every instance there has been a natural or human made calamity. So in that sense, Mumbai has never failed. The people who are supposed to be managing Mumbai, the Brahin Municipal Corporation (BMC), India Meteorological Department (IMD) and many other have collectively failed over many times.
One of the things many of us who watched the movie Home Alone 3 have noticed how the little boy Alex lies to his mother about the terrible weather she is about to encounter so that he can drive her away from home. The American counterpart of IMD has always predicted the weather right. Well, at least in movies. Hence, the expectations that IMD comes up right are always up.
Is IMD responsible?
IMD has failed to predict the very heavy rains. They never were able to predict the floods in 2005, and not in 2017. Or anytime in between. The joke often goes like “If IMD says carry your Umbrella today, then you don’t need to because it rained yesterday.” The same thing happened on 29th of August, 2017. They issued an emergency alert for 30th of August, 2017 and stated that heavy to very heavy rains can be expected. It was largely a sunny day.
But they can only predict, not avert the disaster themselves and prepare us to expect weather conditions so we could decide to avoid it.
Floods can be avoided, should it not?
Of course. Else, why will a few of us be up in arms against this pathetic situation? If Mumbai roads can fail, ideally all of the highways near Mumbai should also meet the same fate. But they don’t. Potholes have made the roads miserable. The drive/ride is pathetic and bumpy. But hghways are smooth enough even after terrible monsoon season.
Garbage
Garbage collection is still worst at its best. The very Mumbaikar also contributes by throwing waste at all possible places including the sewage lines which clogs the exit of water into the sea. Prime Minister Modi’s Swacch Bharat Abhiyan has some effect, not significant enough to help Mumbaikar’s from themselves.
BMC makes a lot of money
Being the richest Civic body in India, BMC generates annual income in taxes and others fees to the tune of Rs. 37,000 crore. Seriously though, it’s hard to see where it went. Rs. 37,000 crore should have ensured futuristic mode of transportation for its citizens. Plus, Mumbai’s contribution to the direct tax (income tax) is also the highest in India by any city.
So where does the money go?
It is an interesting question; isn’t it? I have often been wondering the same thing. Most of it goes in corruption. There is an ambitious project to clean Mithi River (if you can call it a river indeed) every year, and we see hardly an impact. Well, there are encroachments alongside the bank of the rivers in many places which make it difficult to clean, the river also carries a lot of waste from all areas it flows.
The other problem is an issue that cannot be improved. Mumbai is originally 7 islands connected to each other by reclaiming lands on the sea in the mid-18th century. The Hornby Vellard project reshaped Bombay into its current form.
Add to that, lack of garbage dumping grounds does not make BMC efficient in its methods. The nexus is so strong that it is often difficult to fight them and sustain your life. If a Radio Jockey can get a notice served for breeding malaria causing mosquitoes at her house, anything can happen.
It is appalling that Mumbai gets this step motherly treatment then? Share this page with your friends and family! Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
A year has gone by, 365 days around the sun for my Royal Enfield Himalayan. Yeti, as I had named him, has been full of life in this one year. Though, it has seen more downs than ups than I would have liked, I am fond of this machine. It is piece de resistance for me.
My last update on Himalayan was when we had crossed 3000kms. And I really did not have the right frame of mind to send another update from then till now. Today we crossed 14,000 kms and felt it was the right time to do this. The anniversary update – Royal Enfield Himalayan and me having spent a year.
Is there a quick way for me to go through your post?
Oh you lazy bum, go to Indianomics TV and subscribe! Let me make it easier for you, see the video for yourself here then! However, you will miss the details you can read about on the post!
So how is Yeti doing?
Yeti is doing fine now, but the road up till now was not an easy task. There were tons of issues, including the biggest scare I could not have imagined! Losing rear suspension when you are guzzing past vehicles on a busy highway.
It was not only the quality of parts, but also the time he spent in the service center. Yeti also made friends with the mechanic and fellow bikes in the service center – so well you can imagine! I stopped the mighty Himalayan from creating his own facebook account. Indiaomics‘s own facebook page sufficed.
And what were the Himalayan issues?
I know, you are in a hurry. We all are, but hear this first. I love the bike. Period.
The list is long, and it will make you wonder why I made the above statement. So lets get to it.
Engine Head replaced (three times because second change only made things worse)
Rear Mudguard broken all three units changed (at Ishna during the camp in February)
Rear mudguard broken again, changed it two weeks ago
Lock set changed due to faulty lock (change Tank lid as well, coz of it)
Now, tank lid was changed coz of fuel leak (changed lock set coz of it as well, again) after I insisted that be checked
Changed to new Oil Cooler suggested by SC for heating issues
Rear tires replaced under warranty (at Ishna during the camp)
Broken Center stand replaced (this was perhaps really weird, and I do not trust the new center stand yet fully to last longer)
T Stem changed due to rusting (after I pestered SC to take a look into it)
Clutch Center changed due to hard (I mean really hard) gear shift changes (at Ishna during the camp)
Changed to Avenger mirrors coz of poor quality RE ones at my own expense
Saree Guard broke got it changed
Saree Guard broke again after 4 months, pending to be changed
Clutch Cable started melting, got that one changed (rode with a melting clutch cable for 2000kms because SC did not have one in stock to replace)
Headlight went dim, got a new one and now is showing signs of going dim again!
New Headlight started to rust now in the rains
Exhaust nut came loose (and lost), rattled all the way to SC to get that fixed
Rear Break pad changed twice in 9000 kms
Oil changes every 3000-4000 kms in spite of RE claim of 10K Kms (got oil changed at Ishna during camp under warranty because it had turned too bad in only 1200~ kms since last oil change)
Exhaust started rusting, changed to a whole new unit
Oil leakage from Engine – fixed 4 times, finally worked after servicing at 9.4k
Heavy vibrations from the vehicle at 3rd, 4th and 5th above 70-80 (was fixed in the last SC visit but persisted after last service done at 9500~ kms, and finally fixed after 11k kms)
Rear suspension broke, got a new one installed after the bike was transported from Sakinaka service center – took the bike 10 days in service center to come out with new suspension
Wind shield replaced as old one had started being rickety. The problem has not gone with the new one either!
Switch gear changed, voluntarily from the service center
Tank pannier stands changed, as they were misaligned from the day I took delivery
Magneto changed, even though existing one was working fine – as precaution
Gear shift indicator sensor changed twice, now living with whatever it still shows and manages to get it wrong all the time
Rims and hubs on both front and rear wheel changed as paint peeled off them in a month’s ownership
False neutrals are still a reality, even after the best efforts from service center
And you say you love it still?
See, I now understand why the brand is able to lure people towards itself even though the quality that one should get and expect is not there. I rode the KTMs and Dominars of the world and trust me, I never felt as good riding as I did on the Himalayan.
Sure it lacks power, sure it is not the fastest or burns rubber like others do. Sure, it aint a mean machine made to have fun on a race track. It does its job beautifully, only whenever it does not have issues. Even then, you have a smile on your face plastered from left to right or right to left, depending on how you read it.
Having said that, this does not mean that Royal Enfield should continue to make products that do not meet the quality expected from a bike that costs upwards of Rs. 1 lac! They have to come around.
So, what do you think? Let me know about your thoughts in the comments section below.
So YouTube introduced a new advertiser friendly guidelines, based on which an algorithm reviews all videos and tags these videos automatically to a new set of monetization category. Earlier, YouTube only had either Monetized or Non-Monetized option. Now we also have limited or no ads. I noticed this on my YouTube channel, Indianomics TV recently and was surprised by the move.
What is Limited or no ads?
The newly introduced “Limited or no advertisement“, may mean that either there will be no advertisement at all or very few adverts. The lack of advertisement under this category is not restricted by YouTube, but given the categorization, advertisers may be wary of pushing their ads on these videos.
And even if the adverts do make their way, chances are that money they will be charged would be very less than other comparable fully monetized adverts, and then by keywords. Demand for such advert slots will be more popular with new small scale advertisers as well, then? I sure can guess that it will. And hopefully keep up with the current revenue stream? YouTube has listed their Advertiser friendly guidelines, which every YouTuber should be familiar about.
What does this mean to me as a YouTuber?
As some of you may already know that I operate a small YouTube channel by my blog name, Indianomics. I am using Google AdSense for close to 12 years now on this blog, but never made enough money to get a cheque of $100! Yes, I have not been using AdSense right enough. Then there were many years that I did not publish adverts at all.
It so happened that I pushed my latest video of Yeti, my Royal Enfield Himalayan, completing a year with me. The video got about 300 hits before Google’s new Limited or no advertisement icon showed up. And I wondered, what was wrong with the video immediately. This Limited or no ads thing is surely an area of concern for me, as this does have the possibility of reducing my ad income, even though minuscule, further.
I guess many other YouTuber’s videos were hit by this new status and panic is surely to set in. What if I stop making money on these videos? It does not impact me, but those who make money from YouTube’s advertisement are hoping they do not get impacted.
So what not to do? Is there a cheat list?
Well there is no definite cheat list, for starters, go about complying fully to Google’s YouTube content guidelines. guidelines like Community, Monetization and Basic Polices, and advertiser friendly guideline. More importantly our topic, the last one – advertisers are at the core of YouTube’s revenue generation for itself and content creators. Hence, ensure you are following all of the guidelines.
Second, ensure your content or content description does not have the following.
Terrorism, drugs, other general controversies prevalent at that time, alcohol, abuse, rape,
Inappropriate or Hateful language
Swear words (all of the most common) like fuck, shit, damn, crap, jerk, ugly. Hateful content like homophobia, negative tones on god, faith, or any other current issues at the time.
Harmful or dangerous activity
hacking, passwords, crack, selling dangerous goods like drugs and other explosive content,
A partial lunar eclipse was visible over Mumbai on 7th of August, 2017 which I managed to catch on my camera. Though the quality was not that great, I still enjoyed my first time going live on my YouTube Channel, Indianomics.
I read in the news that the full moon will move into Earth’s shadow, which makes for a spectacle in the sky – which we call as Lunar Eclipse. These happen often (by celestial standards), however probably is one of most visible. In the video below, I have tied to shoot in negative so that the partial eclipse can been see, given the amount of clouds and dust in the sky surrounding Mumbai.
If you enjoyed the video, give a thumbs up and provide your feedback in the comments section below.
What is a Lunar Eclipse?
An extract from Wikipedia: A lunar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes directly behind the Earth into its umbra (shadow). This can occur only when the sun, Earth, and moon are aligned (in “syzygy”) exactly, or very closely so, with the Earth in the middle. Hence, a lunar eclipse can occur only the night of a full moon. The type and length of an eclipse depend upon the Moon’s location relative to its orbital nodes.
Tools used to shoot eclipse?
I used my iPhone to shoot the eclipse, live using the YouTube app. So far, I have not fully ventured into shooting serious videos and hence, have not invested in a great camera myself yet. I hope in future, and with money I get from advertisements (if at all I make that much), I will surely upgrade to a full fledged camera.
Streaming Networks?
I used my recently acquired Jio connection to stream live, which cost me about 450MB of my daily limits. Of course, I was live streaming via YouTube. Jio of late has really proved all its hype, especially after the free period ended. I am extremely happy with Jio so far, and I hope to get similar performance in future as well.
I have been writing about some bits here and there on the subject for road safety and road ethics. I have argued with many and some of these are obvious and basic but still do not get followed. Forget about getting a best4 quality jacket and helmet, a bare bones basic ones are rarely found. Road ethics are a matter of life and death.
Here I will be talking about road manners and abiding by the law as Road Ethics and many points are true for car drivers as well. Well, this is a long, long post. Sit back, read, enjoy and be responsible for yourself! Do not forget to subscribe to my YouTube Channel!
1. Road Ethics: Indicators are given to be used, but not always!
Your bike and car have turn indicators. They are to be used when you want to make a turn. But it is not limited to turns only – and that is a fact easily forgotten by many. Y (more…)
Ever since I first heard and watched the advertisement of Rajasthan Tourism, I fell in love with it immediately. It is perhaps one of the most captivating advertisement I have seen in a while. So smitten by it that I actually had to extract the background score and song out of these videos and add these as ring tones on both of my phones. These Rajasthan tourism ringtones are conversation starters, I must tell you! I have compiled two set of ring tones for iOS (.m4r) and other (.mp3) devices, download them from below.
Here is a compiliation of all of the famous Rajasthan Tourism Ads.
[/vc_column_text][vc_cta h2=”Download Rajasthan Tourism Ringtones for Android/Windows Phones for Free MP3 in ZIP”]Downloading ring tones for Android and Windows Phones is far easier than for iOS devices like iPhone. All you need to do is, download the ZIP file attached here on your Mac/PC or Mobile. Use an UNZip Utility like WinZip or 7Zip (preferred) to extract the MP3 files into a folder.
Android Phones
Once the files extracted, connect your phone to the Mac/PC and transfer the newly extracted ring tones into your phone. I personally would create a custom Ringtone folder for all custom ring tones, but you can decide where you need to place them. Remember, not all android phones work alike so you will need to figure out how it works for your device.
On your PC/Mac
Download the ZIP file and store it an accessible folder that you remember or you can just copy the files already.
Connect your Android phone with the USB cable to your PC
Open my computer and then click open the “Phone” icon.
You will find a folder named “Ringtones”, go ahead and open it. If not, you can create a new folder named “Tones” or “Ringtones”.
Paste the copied songs in to this folder.
Setting ring tones on your phone
Go to setting > Tones (or respective option on your phones) and you will see the list of options.
Tap on the “Ringtone” and it opens a list of ring tones.
If you already do not see your new tones on the list, then click on custom ringtone and navigate to the folder where you stored the MP3 files.
Go to the song you want to use as your new ringtone and select / touch / tap on it.
Then go to Settings > and select the Rajasthan Tourism Advert ring tone of your choice.
Windows Phones
Much like the process for Android phones, with exception of where to place your ring tones. Below are the how-to-steps for setting these tones and your ring tones.
On your PC/Mac
Download the ZIP file and store it an accessible folder that you remember or you can just copy the files already.
Connect your Windows 8/10 Mobile smart phone with the USB cable to your PC
Open “Windows Phone” on your computer and then click open the “Phone” icon
You will find a folder named “Ringtones”, go ahead and open it.
Paste the copied songs in to this folder.
Setting ring tone on your phone
Go to setting > personalization and touch select the “sounds” option.
Tap on the “ringtone” and it opens a list of ring tones.
If you already do not see your new tones on the list, then click on custom ringtone and navigate to the folder where you stored the MP3 files.
Go to the song you want to use as your new ringtone and select / touch / tap on it.
Shot by Ogilvy and Mather, the advertisement itself is a piece of art. Showcasing everything that Rajasthan is famous for, and showing things that you and I never imagined existed in Rajasthan. A classic example of this is “Huansthan”, where a Chinese tourist is shown breathing (more…)
It has been 6 months since I drove the Tata Hexa, and it was awesome experience. And this time around I got called for Tata Tigor. Timing of it cannot have been any better, with my birthday around!
I never traveled north of India, with northest I been to was Kutch. Still largely between the equator and Tropic of Cancer. So, this was the first real time I crossed the Tropic of Cancer over India. Flying to Delhi then!
It was the Saturday, week before the event, I got a call from Nihal. He asked if I was interested in driving Tata Tigor? I only had one word to say. You guessed it. A quick word with wife and I had already sent him my details to proceed with booking flights and hotel arrangements.
I did not know who were my fellow passengers to the event. It was only the day before my flight that I knew that gang from Hexa event was there. I felt happier, knowing the people who will be spending the weekend with me.
I leave for Airport before time so that I can enjoy my breakfast at Carnations, courtesy Ola Priority Membership. Yesteryear’s star Zeenat Aman was sitting across my table having breakfast. All I could think of is to remind myself – “do not go asking for a selfie – she is having breakfast!”
Soon I am joined by Sanjay Thampy, Ankit Jain, Sangeeta Yadav and many new faces as we wait for our GoAir flight. After a delay of an hour, I was finally on my way to Delhi, the Kejri-land that I had never been to…
Tigor Styleback, everywhere!
As soon as we arrived at the arrival terminal, we were directed to the Styleback counter that Tata Motors had set up at the Airport. Everyone got to pick up their route map, luggage badges and ID cards – all custom branded to Tata Tigor Styleback with a sketch design of the car.
Tata’s nailed it this time around – with a lot of general public getting much curious and started even asking around what this stall is all about. Tigor will see more fan following as I figure out later.
From Airport, we were escorted to 1AQ, where the styleback experience was in full swing. I fed myself there, with a tasty pasta and salad for lunch. I am veggie, so had limited options. There were sea food and meat, and I hear they were excellent. And the deserts, I cannot say enough off! Lovely! Look at the pictures.
I left 1AQ in disappointment. Qutub Minar is just a 5-minute walk away, if time permitted. We have very tight schedule, thanks to the congestion in Mumbai Airport that delayed landing in Delhi, by approx. two hours. So, disheartened, I move to the hotel.
Day 1 of Tata Motors’ Hospitality
Andaz by Hyatt, Delhi Aerocity
I am absolutely surprised as we reach Andaz. It is different. Different than any other hotels I have been to. It was surprising how difficult it is to differentiate among other hotels, but easy if you knew how to do it.
In a true essence Tata Tigor and Andaz Delhi are high on Style! From little things to the ambiance, design and grandeur, Andaz just filled me up. A look at the staff, and no one missed to smile. It makes a huge difference. The crockery is colorful, so is the food. Array of options, the best of what Chefs could make.
I doubted it is called Andaz and not And AZ – since Andaz literally completes everything A to Z! Even got the staff to give me a bite! I would love to go back again. Question is – how soon?
Tata Tigor Launch Presentation
With a room like the one I got, it did not feel good to leave it for the presentation but that is what I am here for – the car, Tata Tigor. The compact sedan that does not look like one, the hatch back that is not a hatchback.
The way the car has been designed, it has created a new category itself. And Tata Motors got to name it, Styleback. A name not in the dictionary. Unique, and creative.
Then I saw Pratap Bose. He is the guy behind the team that designed Hexa and Tiago. He is the man behind the IMPACT philosophy that makes Tata cars look great! Something that Tata’s sorely missed of-late.
On to the presentation then!
Tata Tigor features in a jiffy!
Tata Tigor has many a jaw drop with the looks. And features will just add to the weight. Tigor is Tata’s freshest entry into the competitive Compact Sedan arena. Compact Sedans as a category was created by Tata Motors with Indigo CS – taking full advantage of the Govt. tax soaps for cars below 1.4-liter engine and 4 meters in length.
Tigor Design and Style
Let me tell you that Tigor is the best-looking car around! Period. It is unlike anything in the market today and there is no denying the fact that it beats the competition hands down. It does carry forward the Tiago look and feels through B-pillar, however after that things change for better. This is not your hatchback with a boot.
Head-on, there is not much to differentiate between Tigor and Tiago – the car on which the former is based. Radiator grill and smoked headlight unit with projector headlamps being the difference. Among other things, the diesel variant of the car gets 14-inch tires, and petrol one comes with 15-incher. There is just required amount of chrome, sleek led tail lamps and the nice bumper provide this car the name Styleback!
Tigor gets Harman designed infotainment system with touchscreen. The screen also doubles up as the rear parking camera view – which may not be very efficient. I would have preferred it to show up on the center review view mirror but I am not complaining.
Tigor standout features for your heart!
Apart from the obvious styling differences, Tigor sets a few benchmarks in this segment. Several small things add up to this huge positive vibe I feel about Tata Tigor. The boot lid uses beams instead of hinges which helps in an increase in usage space of total 419 liters of boot space.
6 speaker Harman speakers do a fantastic job, and will ensure you are totally happy even if you are playing Justin Biber! The Infotainment system can connect with your phone and use applications. You get steering mounted controls and voice activation. Tigor comes with Climate Control and that is a segment first. Aircon is strong and quick in cooling the cabin. There are 28 Cubby holes per Tata’s. The rear seat has an arm rest with two cup holders, again a segment first.
The allow rims also come in dual tone which are very nice to look at, so does the color inserts around the aircon vents on the dash matching with the color of the car. Tigor is available in Copper Dazzle, Platinum Silver, Pearlescent White, Espresso Brown, Berry Red.
For your brain: Engine and performance
Tigor is is powered by 1.2-liter Revotron 3-cylinder petrol engine and by 1.05-liter Revotorq diesel engine. Revotron displaces a maximum power & torque of 85ps and 114Nm torque which Revotroq variant is churns out a power output of 70ps and 140Nm of torque.
Both engines come with multiple drive modes, viz. City for peppier performance and Eco for more mileage conscious. Power is transmitted via a 5-speed gearbox. AMT version is not being launched for now, though Tata Motor’s Pratap Bose suggested their target niche for Tigor are women.
Well that is what is on the paper. So how does it drive on the road? Well, Tigor drives nicely and that is a combination of a lot of things. Tigor petrol car’s suspension felt a bit supple which diesel one’s felt a bit stiff. Both cars absorb bumps brilliantly and that is a testament of Tata’s efforts.
For sure, the NVH levels in diesel car were evident and something that is an area of improvement. It is not bad, but something that Tata needs to work on to improve in upcoming versions of the car. Petrol engine is an aluminum block, and lighter of the two by 100kgs, is peppier than diesel. Diesel one needs to push past 2500 rpm, after which it works nicely.
The car handles well, though the route we drove was pretty much highway. It is a comfortable car do begin with and takes potholes with aplomb. It is no Hexa, and not an off-roader. Handling is also neat, there is no body roll and the car feels planted on the road.
Tata Tigor Unique Review
This is not your normal YouTube review, but a review that is non-journalistic. Do not forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel, Indianomics TV!
Kitna deti hai?
Though the mileage was not revealed by Tata Motors, but it is evident when we drove the car that petrol returned an average of 15 while the diesel got us 17 kmpl. Keep in mind that these are readings on the dash screen which are not very accurate. At the same time, we all drove the car to test its features and performance and not mileage given the time we had in our hands.
So what is my take on it?
Tigor is a lovely car to come from the stable of Tata. One of the criticisms with Tata cars was always that they are not desirable, but no longer. Tiago, Hexa, Tigor all follow the IMPACT design language that has successfully put Tata back into the game.
It will deliver you goods you are looking for at a budget but will not make you feel compromised. The quality levels are next to the best if not the best, and two engine options are refined too. I will pick up the petrol for its super performance, 15-inch tires and overall ride.
I have uploaded a new video on my Indianomics channel on Youtube. Three fellow THTians (The Himalayan Tribe’s men) went for a off-road ride to Morbe Dam. Morbe Dam is a gravity dam on the Dhavari river near Khalapur, Raigad district. They came back with a few videos.
I loved the ones where they create a dust-burnout and decided to create a video! Turns out, they had a few more pictures and I used them. A learning from making the video is to ensure to obtain landscape video shots. My friends shot many a video in portrait mode. Not all videos make for a fit on a video which is almost always in a landscape mode.
So guys, remember. Next time you are out to shoot a video, please ensure you are shooting it on landscape more. More importantly, if you are going to take a close up as you may miss a large portion of it when the video goes under the knife.
About The Himalayan Tribe
The Himalayan Tribe has been an active community full of energetic people. Recently, we did a Service Camp in partnership with Royal Enfield (RE). RE gained a lot of feedback from bikers in a preceding meeting and decided to organize the camp. THT has active WhatsApp and Band.us forums where members connect with each other.
This camp was helped by THT Volunteers and was hugely successful. If you own a Himalayan, then you should definitely join THT chapter nearest to your location. In case you need, you can find us on Facebook and Twitter or drop in a comment below.
The video is created using iMovie on iPhone, and have used Beast of the Burden song by Rolling Stones in the background. Let me know if you like the video in the comments below.
