Bajaj has recently relaunched the entry level CT100 from its stable which they had discontinued in 2006 for the domestic market. Though the bike was discontinued long time back from the domestic market, Bajaj continued to export the CT100 in the international markets; specially developing nations. The decision of relaunching the CT100 is as abrupt and unexpected as the decision of its discontinuation in 2006. The relaunch of new CT100 was easy for company as reason being its already ongoing production for international markets in fairly good numbers. Although, the new CT100 looks more of a cosmetic updation but there are few prominent changes like introduction of alloy wheels, broader rear tyre and maximum Torque that now comes 1000 Rpm early drawn us to take a Test Ride of relaunched CT100. BikesIndia brings to you First Test Ride Review of new CT100 yet again before the bike is officially launched.
Looks:Yes, the graphics can make a difference, though the new CT100 is moreover all the same as it used to be once but the new graphics and refreshed decal transformed it into a fresh bike. The hardware remains identical for the new CT100 except for few changes here and there, the bike is featured with same front headlight and the rear is also remained same, only difference apart from graphics comes as optional Alloy wheels and new exhaust, which has directly taken from Platina 100 (not new Platina 100 ES).
Instrument Console & Switchgears:The new CT100 has very basic Instrument cluster, but what else can you expect from an entry level motorcycle? The switchgears are also very basic in nature, as there is no auto return switch for the blinkers neither there is any provision of push button cancellation for the blinkers. Over all the fit and finish is also average, you can see the gap between the meter console and the body.
Engine & Transmission:The new CT100 is equipped with the same 99.27cc engine which it used to have and later which Platina 100 carried forward. The engine is simple 4-stroke without any complexity, it is not the DTS-i engine therefore it has only single sparkplug and it comes with 2 valves. The 99.27cc engine produces 8.2 Ps of power at 7500 Rpm but contrary to the old engine now it produces maximum Torque 8.05 Nm at early 4500 Rpm.
The engine is tuned to return maximum mileage hence the power is just about adequate. Bajaj has definitely worked on transmission as the transmission of CT100 also felt smooth as we experienced while testing the new Platina 100 ES.
Riding Dynamics & Handling:The bike has excellent agility due its lower weight and height, it is fun to ride in city traffic condition where the bike behaved in a planted manner, all credit goes to CEAT Secura tyres. Opposite to the new Platina 100 ES which had Metro Continental tyres when launched the new CT 100 comes with CEAT Secura tyres. The front set footpegs coupled with straight and high raised handlebar makes the riding stance very relaxed.
The suspension setup is also very plush and they soaked potholes efficiently, there is telescopic suspension upfront and at the rear the SNS dual spring suspensions doing the duty. Both ends received the 110mm drum brakes which does their job effectively.
Verdict:The new CT100 is virtually cheapest 100cc motorcycle available in the market which also makes it the cheapest entry level bike available in India. At a given price tag of Rs 35801 (Ex-Showroom, Delhi) the new CT100 is a fantastic value for money and it absolutely does what it is suppose to do. If you want just a commuter bike with no nonsense gadgets and a reliable two-wheeler which can take you from point "A" to point "B" then you take the new CT100 home and save your 10000 bucks while doing it all with peace of mind.
Motorcycle Courtesy: Sanghi Bajaj, Bhopal, M.P.By: Farhan Kashif
