In the late 90s, Bajaj Auto and Kawasaki joint venture had launched multiple entry-level commuter motorcycles including the Bajaj Caliber in the country. Launched in 1998, the Caliber was hugely popular among commuters. The JV promoted the motorcycle using TV and Print with a famous tagline “Hoodibaba”.
It is expected that the popular Bajaj Caliber name could be return as a modern motorcycle. In fact, Bajaj Auto has recently trademarked the Caliber name in India. This could further make competition interesting in the entry-level commuter motorcycle segment, which is currently dominated by Hero MotoCorp.
Back in 90s and early 20s, the Bajaj Caliber 115 was equipped with a 111.6cc air-cooled motor jointly developed by Bajaj and Kawasaki. This engine was good enough to produce 9.5bhp of power and 9.10Nm of torque. It was paired to a 4-speed gearbox. The motorcycle was claimed to hit a top speed of 102kmph, which is a big thing for a commuter. It had telescopic front forks and a swing arm hydraulic shock absorber at the rear. Also See – Bajaj Freerider name trademarked
According to the trademark application, the ‘Caliber’ nameplate could be used for two wheeler, three wheel or electric powered two-wheeler. It is expected that the Bajaj Caliber will return as an entry-level IC engine powered commuter motorcycle, which could use either 115cc engine from Platina 110 or a 125cc engine from Pulsar 125.
The 115cc, FI, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine is capable of producing 8.5bhp of power and 9.81Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Pulsar’s 124cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine churns out 12bhp of power and 11Nm of torque. These engines are paired to a 5-speed gearbox.
