Bajaj launches new Discover; expects to meet growth targets

India's motorcycle leader Bajaj Auto said on Friday that it was close to achieving its sales target of 2.4 million units for the financial year that ends this month, and aims at 25 per cent growth in 2014-15.

"We hope to reach three million units nationally; and in the east specially, we will target higher growth for 2014-15," Bajaj general manager (east) Prasad Vaze told newspersons in Kolkata.

The company is close to its current fiscal target of 2.4 million units, he said at the launch of a new version of Discover 125, its popular commuting bike.

"With the new Discover 125, we completed our offering in the 125cc segment targeting the price-sensitive segment. We already have a full range in the 100cc [segment]. With a better market outlook, we hope to grow healthily," Vaze said.

In the 125cc segment, the demand in the market is about 1.6 lakh units per month and the new launch would cater to the larger pie in this segment, he added.

Powered by a DTS-i engine with 4-valve Pentroof combustion chamber, the new Discover delivers 11.5 Ps power. The manufacturer says the power is delivered without compromising on mileage.

The new bike also sports a chiselled, muscular tank. It has a raring-to-go stance with aggressive fairing and sharp-edged headlamps. It is also equipped with petal disc brake, alloy wheels and Nitrox suspension.

"Many consumers are tired of the regular 100cc commuter bikes, which offer only 8 Ps power. They want to upgrade to sportier, attractive bikes with superior technology and features. However, barriers such as price and mileage deter them from moving on to the 125cc segment. The new Discover 125 offers mileage equivalent to a 100cc bike, and comes with exciting performance and features at an attractive price," Vaze said.

The Discover 125 drum brake version will be priced at Rs50,693 (ex-showroom West Bengal) and the disc brake version at Rs 52,748.