Hero MotoCorp Launches 125cc Ignitor in India

Hero MotoCorp has launched the Ignitor, a 125cc premium model based on the CBF Stunner from former partner turned rival Honda. The Ignitor is one of the final models Hero will produce with technology licensed from Honda, and it is expected to bridge the gap before Hero introduces its own new models (with help from a gentleman named Erik Buell.)

Like the Stunner, the Hero Ignitor is powered by a 125cc single-cylinder engine. Both models claim 11hp and 8 ft-lb., but the Ignitor reaches its peak torque at 5000 rpm while the Stunner has to spin up to 6500 rpm. Honda produces both a carbureted and a fuel injected version of the Stunner but the Ignitor will only be available with carbs. Power is delivered through a five-speed constant mesh transmission.

Suspension is comprised of a telescopic fork and adjustable twin rear shocks. Hero will produce two versions of the Ignitor, one with front and rear drum brakes for 55,900 Indian rupees (US$1030) and another with a disc brake up front for 57,900 rupees (US$1068).

Other features include a digital-analog display, split seat, body-colored rear grips and dual-tone mirrors. The Hero MotoCorp Ignitor will be available in Pearl White, Sports Red, Vibrant Blue and Panther Black Metallic.

“Every new launch of Hero MotoCorp flows from a clear strategy to further consolidate its leadership position across segments,” says Anil Dua, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Hero MotoCorp. “With ‘Ignitor’, we aim to bolster our presence in the growing deluxe segment. It combines sturdiness and superior technology with contemporary style and yet comes with an attractive price tag. We are confident that with such an irresistible package, Ignitor would definitely appeal across the young adult segments.”

The Ignitor launches just as Hero reports its most successful quarter of all time, with 1.64 million units sold from April 1 to June 30. With 534,091 units sold in June alone, Hero reported its fifth consecutive month with sales over 500,000 units. By contrast, the Motorcycle Industry Council reported Americans purchased 440,899 for all of 2011.

“With this quarterly performance, Hero MotoCorp has yet again set a new benchmark in the industry,” says Dua. “It is all the more heartening as these numbers have come against the backdrop of an overall dampened sentiment in the industry and the economy. We have been growing consistently and going forward, we are confident of keeping up this momentum. With new product launches and foray into new international markets, we are looking forward to a lot of exciting action in the coming months.”

[Source: Hero MotoCorp]

By Dennis Chung