Remembering The Kinetic Challenger | The First Indian Motorcycle With a Gearshift Indicator

The automotive industry in our country has come a really long way. From the famous two-stroke, Yamaha RX-100 to the still popular Hero Splendor all have made India what it is now. That said, in between the two bikes, many didn’t make a dent in the domestic market. One such motorcycle was the Kinetic Challenger.

Before we go further, let’s talk history. Kinetic Challenger was introduced in the Indian market in 2001. Sadly, because of the unexpected response, Kinetic decided to pull the plug on Challenger in 2003.

Rather, the bike enjoyed a sweet time in the domestic market before getting discontinued in 2009. But what was so unique about the motorcycle? Let’s drive back in past and see what the bike offered.

Source for all the images HERE

Kinetic Challenger | What made it Click?

To have a verdict, there were many aspects that made Kinetic Challenger a good pick. From the powertrain to the aesthetics and in the end features.

Engine and Transmission

One of the factors that made the motorcycle worth buying was it powertrain or the engine. For you to know, Kinetic Challenger came with a 100cc 4-stroke engine that was mated to a 4-speed transmission.

Fun Fact: Kinetic too had a collaboration with the Japanese two-wheeler giant, Honda. This reflects in the type of engine used as it came with a similar motor as the one is Hero Honda’s Splendor.

Like other 100cc engines, this too was very fuel-efficient. How much you may ask? Well, in 2001 this is one of the most fuel-efficient motorcycle delivering around 70kmpl. Also, Kinetic Challenger came with a 12-litre fuel tank giving it a range upwards of 800 kilometres.

To enjoy the history, here is Kinetic Challenger in action in a TVC.

Was the Kinetic Challenger Aesthetically Sound?

Talking about the looks, the motorcycle came with a round reflective type headlight with a halogen bulb. After all, what more can you ask from a motorcycle back in the early 2000s.

• Above the headlight sat a twin-pod instrument cluster. The left pod was the speedometer with an odometer. Well, the right one had fuel gauge battery indicator, and turn signal.
• There were a couple of USPs that made the motorcycle unique. Firstly, it was the first bike in the segment to get a gear position indicator at its price point. And surprisingly, the Challenger also came with a side stand warning light.
• Moving to the fuel tank, it had an all-metal fuel tank with recesses on either side to tuck the rider’s knees. This was needless in a 100cc motorcycle but it offered a really comfortable riding experience.
• The rear too was not at all boring. According to the trend, the mudguard was chrome and the taillights also housed halogen bulb.

How much did the Kinetic Challenger Cost?

Now comes the question that made the motorcycle a little expensive. Talking about the price, Challenger was priced at ₹42,000/- (ex-Showroom Delhi). Despite that, Kinetic was able to sell about 60,000 Challengers during the year-end in 2001. The motorcycle used to rival the class-leading Hero Honda Splendor, Bajaj CT100, Bajaj BYX and more.

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