Issue7

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June 2012

Issue 7

NRs. 100

NEPAL

Maruti Suzuki

Swift Subaru Forester

Like us on Autolife Nepal

Exclusive

MyShrestha Autolife Ashish

KTM Duke 200 Launch

AL Feature

Cycling in Mustang

swift pack

www.autolife.com.np EVENTS> > 4th Enfield Poker Run

The future of our roads i s s u e

FORD City Chase V3.0

tata Nano] [ OWNERS feedback June 2012 iN NUMBERS 1 STRENGTH

swift pack

i s s u e

s an upcoming publication team, the last sixth issue was a milestone achievement for us. No doubt about that! We are also very much glad that, with every other issue we are getting closer to our goals of emerging as a dominant and an inspirational force in the Nepalese auto industry. Well, this issue too is no different with our right mixture of automotive passion, lifestyle and obsession immaculately laid out for you. Ofcourse, things sure didn’t come easy especially with the political strikes back in action almost every other day. But with our by-default challenge to make each issue bigger and better, we however worked our way to the print under a hectic schedule. Had we hit the gym instead, we sure would have come out with muscular six packs. Nevertheless, this ‘SWIFT-PACK ISSUE’ with new swift contents did turn out to be no less!

Everybody sure love’s a bit of glamour and reading about the lifestyles of high profiled personalities. So in true AutoLife style we have introduced the ‘AL Personality’ section, wherein we get up close with a chosen local personality and bring forward to you everything you wanted to know about their passion for wheels. Please don’t tell us that you expected us to question them on their favourite designer brands or dream dates!

With our increasing ties in the auto industry, it was obvious that we had the posh and savvy Mr. Ashish Shrestha (Executive Director of Leon Motors) at the top of our list.

This month was also quite overflowing with motoring events. Now, automotive events are something that rarely happens in Nepal and we made sure that we didn’t miss any. We joined the thundering 4th Enfield Poker Run ride all the way to Pokhara to usher in the Nepali New Year in a true biker’s style. We raced our way around the capital solving a slew of clues, to claim the third slot in the Ford City Chase V3.0. We sat down at Moksh to catch up with the world premiere of ‘Strength in Numbers’, a captivating and sensational mountain biking documentary which was partly shot here in Nepal too. Finally rounding off the events, it was the one of its kind five star launch party of the KTM 200 Duke which saw a mix of action packed presentations, laser light shows, some lovely belly dancing sessions and the official unveiling of the stripped to the bare essentials – The KTM 200 Duke.

For the test drive, we had the new Maruti Suzuki Swift which not only looked hot but was also a hoot to drive. We must admit that it still does set up a sort of benchmark for hatchbacks. To make the test review more effective and for a diverse opinion, we also let loose three randomly selected guests for their feedbacks. The second test mule was the unsung hero - The Subaru Forester; which we always felt deserved more attention with the brand’s awesome rallying credibility. It was a thrilling experience and indeed a lot better than the usual soft roader crowd.

On the cyclist front, Mandil Pradhan from Himalayan Rides shares with us an inspirational and mind blowing photo story of his ride to Mustang.

Seriously, after watching their hit video on YouTube, we doubt if anybody wouldn’t be inspired to take up mountain biking. Hell, we were! Then rounding off these super swift contents is our not to be missed personal take on the “The Future of Our Roads”, amongst the other regular stuffs.

The Editorial Team PS: Don’t forget to play the exciting and fun Automotive Crossword which we have swapped for the regular quiz in this 7th Issue. So try your luck at the QFX movie tickets. They say seven is a lucky number!

vol 1 Issue 7 june 2012 PUBLISHER Softrock Media Pvt Ltd Baluwatar, Kathmandu, Nepal Tel: 977-01-4415746 Regd. 84553/068/069

Founder / Managing Editor Ajay Dhoj Thapa Executive Director Shraddha Rajbhandari Editorial Ankit Shakya Ayush Dhaubanjar Kushal Goyal Saurav Nepal Design Designer: Sushil Dhungana Supported by: Sworup Nhasiju Sampada Dwivedi (Adfinity) Photography Ankit Shakya Ayush Dhaubanjar Niraj Karki Sanat Dangol BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Alize Shrestha Piyush Neupane Printing Qualitech Pvt Ltd Tripureshwor T: 01-4261314 Distribution Kasthmandap Distributors T: 01-4247241 General enquiries hello@autolife.com.np Editorial enquiries: editorial@autolife.com.np Ads and marketing enquiries marketing@autolife.com.np Autolife is an automotive magazine (DAO Regd 213/067/068), published 12 times a year by Softrock Media. All rights reserved in respect of all articles, illustration, photographs, etc published in Autolife Magazine. The content of this publication may not be reproduced on whole or in any part in any electronics or print form, in any language, without the written consent of the publisher. The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher, who cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions.

Autolife has a dedicated review team for all test drives and rides. We research, study, plan and execute our tests and publish our real experience without any influences. We have our loyalty towards our readership and are not biased or inclined towards any specific brands or services. All advertisement insertions are a part of our marketing campaign, due to their relevance with the magazines content; and published only after authorization from clients or their respective media agencies.

contents vol 1 Issue 7 JUNE 2012

EXCLUSIVE tests 32

Maruti Suzuki All-new Swift

46

Subaru Forester

Small Car Big Ambitions The Forester

FEATURES & COVERAGE

46

the forester

26 30 52 40

Beijing Auto Show 2012 Ford City Chase V3.0 The Future of Our Roads or Is It? Ready to Race Naked?

Exclusive KTM Duke 200 Launch

60

Tata Nano Owners Feedback

Here it from the horse’s mouth

72

On the Bullet Train to Pokhara

Thundering 4th Enfield Poker Run

52 Future of our roads Regulars 16

64

4th enfield poker run

72

New Updates

News & Scoops from the Auto Industry

Automotive Game Review

Gran Turismo 1998 & SBK 2011

80 82

84

Subscriptions Car DIY for a spotless exterior Bike DIY guide - Tubeless Tyre

86

Puncture Repair

Complete Buying Guide

Listing of cars & bikes available in Nepal

contents vol 1 Issue 7 JUNE 2012

AL Personality: Ashish Shrestha

32

SMALL CAR BIG AMBITIONS

42

AL cyclist 66

Cycling in Mustang

70

Strength In Numbers

A Mind-blowing Photo Story Inspirational World Premiere at Moksh

interactive 14

Mailbox & Photos

28

Readers Write: Think about it!

Readers Letters & Pictures Prasanna KC

PLAY THE CROSSWORD

66

CYCLING IN MUSTANG

(PAGE - 62)

WIN

TICKETS

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Among different articles I really loved reading AL Wishlist: Hardley Davidson. It was quite interesting to know about the best motor cycle brand in world.... like u guyz I’m also wishing for Hardley Davidsons motorcycle brand to open in Nepal...........overall the magazine was great, but there is still space to improve. You are “The Autolife magazine”.

One more thing most of the price of vehicles were not listed so hope that in next issue the prices are listed ;) Rojazz Shakya

SEND US IMAGES OF YOUR AUTOLIFE at HELLO@AUTOLIFE.COM.NP AND SEE IT HERE

Autolife needs you.... to email us. Now. Send your words and pictures to editorial@autolife.com.np www.autolife.com.np 12

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news updates

LOCAL

NEW NISSAN SUNNY COMING SOON >> Dugar Brothers and Sons (DBS ),the authorized dealers of Nissan, are preparing to bring the new version of the popular Sunny in Nepal. DBS will introduce two variants of the Sunny with petrol engine at first.

The 4-cylinder 1.5 litre 16 valves petrol engine produces 97bhp of maximum power and 134 Nm of torque. The engine is affixed with a 5 speed manual gearbox. The exterior looks aggressive with larger headlamps, new chrome grille, separate fog lamp cluster and lower air intake. It also has a sports car like body color rear view mirrors, body color mud flaps, door handles and bumper. The rear side matches the sporty looks of the front with new style tail lamp cluster and designer slopes. It also has sufficient safety features like SRS dual front airbags, halogen headlamps, front fog lamps, front disc brakes, Anti-lock braking system with EBD and Brake assist, impact absorbing body, all seat belts, engine immobilizer, keyless entry, front and side impact beams, central locking, child safety locks, day and night inside rear view mirror, etc. The pricing will be tentatively around NPR Rs 4 million.

TOYOTA ETIOS SET TO HIT OUR ROADS >> United Traders Syndicate Pvt. Ltd (UTS), the authorised distributor of Toyota in Nepal will debut the much-awaited sedan, Etios by the end of June. Powered by a high-performance 16V DOHC engine it produces 90 bhp of power and a torque of 132 Nm. The highly fuel efficient and lightweight engine has electronic throttle control, lean engine construction design and improved anti-knocking performance. The exterior is sporty and sharp. It includes loads of features as per variants like Body Coloured Bumpers, Tubeless Tyres, Full Wheel Caps, AC with Heater & Clean Air Filter, Cooled Glove Box, Digital Tripmeter, Electric Power Steering, Body Coloured Door Handles, Body Coloured ORVMB Pillar Black-Out, Intermittent Wiper, Chrome Garnish on Boot, Power Windows, Electric Power Steering and Central Locking, Front Fog Lamps, Spoke Alloy Wheels, Roof Mounted Antenna, Rear Defogger, Tachometer, USB & Aux-in Ready Audio, Fabric Insert Door Trim and Chrome Accented Air Vents, Audio Controls on Steering Wheel, Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel and Chrome Accented Shift Knob etc. The price of Etios sedan is yet to be fixed.

UPGRADED VW TIGUAN UNVEILED >> Pooja International, the sole distributor of Volkswagen in Nepal has introduced the upgraded version of Tiguan in the Nepalese market after the success of the previous version which was launched back in September 2010. The new model offers tons of new features like redesigned exterior, panoramic sunroof, Bi-Xenon headlights with daytime running LED lights, Dual-zone automatic 14

June 2012

MAW TO ROLL OUT THE SKODA RAPID >> Skoda Rapid sedan is soon going to be launched in Nepal.

The distributor of Skoda Auto in Nepal, Morang Auto Works will roll out the Rapid sedan in the Nepalese auto market.

The sedan will be launched in three variants — Active, Ambition and Elegance, in both petrol and diesel versions. The petrol version is powered with a 1.6l petrol mill that generates 104 bhp of power at 5250 rpm along with 153 Nm of torque at 3800 rpm. The diesel variant is armed with a 1.6l powerplant that elevates 104 bhp of power at 4400 rpm and a robust torque of 250 Nm at 1500-2500 rpm. The sedan comes with an enticing new design, sufficient space, dependable safety equipments, and latest technology. The latest product from Skoda offers extreme levels of comfort and is capable of carrying a family with comfortable ease. Driver and front passenger airbags and anti-lock braking system (ABS) have found a place in the car that further proves its mettle in terms of safety. The company expects to sell around 100 units of the sedan in a year’s time.

SYM BIKES ON ITS WAY

>> Shrestha Company is all

geared to launch two-wheelers from SYM, a Taiwanese automobile company. The company is planning to launch two variants of scooters, a cub and a motorcycle. The Wolf SB250Ni motorcycle is equipped with 250cc 4V liquid engine; producing max power of 24.7 bhp. The gear transmission is 6 speed. It contains front and rear discs which makes the braking performance better. It also features a blue back-lit LCD dash and has functions normally

only seen on bigger bikes, such as an oil change reminder, gear position indicator, clock and fuel gauge. Similarly, the company will also be introducing two scooter variants - SYM Jet 4 and Orbit scooters, and a cub called Magic. Both these scooters feature a 4-stroke 125 cc engine. The magic is a 4-stroke 125 cc cub having a 4-speed manual transmission system. The Wolf SB250Ni will tentatively be priced between NPR Rs 5 Lakhs- 5.5 Lakhs, the scooters between Rs 170,000 to Rs 200,000 while the Magic cub will cost around Rs. 1.4 Lakhs. The company will be opening an exclusive outlet in Teku, Kathmandu and also plans to appoint dealers in various parts of the country.

climate control, 4-motion all wheel drive, electronic stability control, 6 airbags and premium touchscreen navigation among others. The 4 cylinder engine comes Rs 64,50,000 for basic 2.0L petrol 6 speed in Petrol and Diesel manual AWD and Rs 69,25,000 for the variants. The prices are likely to be around basic 2.0L petrol automatic 7-speed AWD. www.autolife.com.np

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news updates

THE BIG DEAL sale

>> Ford’s Big Deal - Mid Night Sale was a huge success with 37 vehicle bookings across Nepal and all the customers won several assured gifts apart from cash discounts and other offers. Some customers visited the Ford showroom and booked vehicle even as late as 11.30 p.m. In its effort to live up to the brand promise of Go Further, Ford brought the hugely successful and unique one day event ‘The Big Deal - Midnight Sale’ in all its showrooms nationwide on Sunday, May 13, 2012. This uniquely designed ‘The Big Deal - Midnight Sale’ is an initiative to make the car buying experience a more convenient and rewarding one for Ford customers while allowing them more flexibility.

‘The Big Deal - Midnight Sale’ provided customers who book a car with a chance to win assured gifts such as LED TVs, Camcorders, Touch-screen Mobile Phones and DVD Players.

‘ME AND MY DIO’ PHOTO CONTEST

>>Syakar Trading Company Pvt Ltd has

brought thrill to the market with unique

local

>> Ryderz of Bhaktapur (R.O.B) in collaboration with Bhaktapur Animal Welfare Society (BAWS) and Bhaktapur District Public Health Office had organized a Mass Anti Rabies Vaccination (MARV) Program on 12th May, 2012, to mark the World Veterinary Week 2012. This was the fourth successive social event conducted by the group, in their continued effort to prove that motorcycling clubs too can be a responsible lot for the welfare of society.

The program commenced with a motorcycle rally and the bikes were decorated with flags and banners to notify passers-by of the vaccination program. Mr. Bijay Ratna Bajracharya, president of R.O.B said that this event was mainly focused on creating awareness among the community regarding the dangers of Rabies, the management of uncontrolled stray dog population and

its hazard in the society. The event mainly focused around areas of Bhaktapur and a total of 205 street and community dogs were vaccinated during the program. The team led by Mr.Suresh Kawan (R.O.B. Social Event Manager), along with the members, also distributed some awareness documents (posters, stickers) to spread ideas on “Rabies Awareness”, “Dog Bite Prevention” and “Post Bite Management”.

Since their first awareness campaign, the team had always stressed that the government should fund such types of event related to vaccination and birth control rather than straight away poisoning the street dogs that are usually accepted in the society if their population and health is managed. So finally their appeal was heard and this event was supported as well by the related government agency. The vaccines and medical supplies were provided by the Bhaktapur District Public Health Office, technical support by BAWS and R.O.B supported the event with volunteers and transportation service.

youth oriented picture upload competition.

The picture upload competition is based upon a simple format which includes participants uploading their best snap posing with the Honda Dio along with a unique and creative capton about the feel they get when they glide on their Honda Dio and how Dio has changed their life style on to the facebook page www.faceboook.com/HondaNepal . The competition is not gender biased, meaning male and females can participate, even

non DIO owners can participate in this competition. According to Syakar the span of the competition shall be dated May 8th to June 8th 2012. To get the entry entertained, a participant must have the theme, caption and picture based upon the Honda DIO. 1 male and 1 Female with the maximum number of likes will be directly nominated for the grand prize and 10 male and 10 female will compete in a live show for a grand prize of Rs. 1,00,000.

RIDERS FOR ANIMAL WELFARE

TATA NANOS AT 0% FINANCE >> Sipradi Trading Pvt. Ltd. with an increase in sale of Nano over the recent months has launched the biggest and most lucrative scheme of the automobile industry as of yet. The scheme offers an unmatched 0 % finance with a lowest EMI of Nrs. 6990 and is applicable to all three variants of Nano: Standard, CX and LX. Furthermore, company stated that there is no hidden cost in this scheme in comparison to most schemes seen in the market. With 467 Nanos already plying the Nepalese road, the presence of Nano has become ever more prominent in Nepal. The company is also planning to bring the car even closer to its customers, by launching the second leg of Nano Yatra Nepal.

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local

REx ShowRoom now open >> For the first time in Nepal, Rex has officially opened its showroom for All Terrain Vehicles in Situ Plaza, Narayana Chaur, Naxal. The company is currently accepting bookings and has three types of adventure vehicles on display at its showroom. The three vehicles are- Utility vehicle (UTV), All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) and Go Kart, all powered by a 500cc engine.

4x4 and 2x4 switchable shaft drive, dualdisc brakes, digital LCD meter, and alloy rims. The REX Go Kart has a 500cc 37bhp automatic CVT liquid cooled engine with 4x4 and 2x4 switchable shaft drive, digital LCD meter, passenger seat and alloy rims.

These adventure vehicles have been stated to be fuel efficient and will be priced reasonably. The UTV 500cc is a 4-seater with automatic 34bhp CVT liquid cooled engine, 4x4 and 2x4 switchable shaft drive, dual-disc brakes, alloy rims, auto dump boot and comes with accessories like winch, cigarette lighter and Radio/ MP3 player. The REX ATV 500cc is powered by a 34bhp automatic CVT liquid cooled engine and comes with

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news updates

INDIA

SKODA FABIA SCOUT LAUNCHED

>> Skoda has added another variant to the Fabia model

line-up, the Fabia Scout. Available in both 1.2-litre petrol and diesel variants, the Scout is distinguished from the regular Fabia by the protective cladding on the sides and projector beam headlamps. The front bumper gets a chin spoiler while the rear bumper comes with a diffuser.

Interiors of the Scout feature door-sill trims and a sporty steel pedal set. The ride height of the car remains the same as the regular car. Equipment levels are quite good too and the Scout gets dual airbags, integrated music system, keyless entry and tinted glasses. The Scout is priced at IC Rs 6.79 lakhs ex-Delhi for the petrol version while the diesel variant costs IC Rs 8.10 lakhs.

PIAGGIO LAUNCH VESPA IN INDIA >> The much awaited launch of the

Piaggio Vespa in India has taken place with a price tag of IC Rs 66,000. Piaggio has dropped the LX125 tag for this scooter in India and it will be called just Vespa.

The scooter has a 10bhp 125cc engine specially developed for India by Piaggio with a variomatic transmission, drum brakes and trailing link front suspension.

Piaggio intends to have just one version of the scooter on sale. The scooter is being manufactured at Piaggio’s new two-wheeler plant at Baramati. Originally launched in 1946, the Vespa, Piaggio officials say, is a best seller in Europe and has appeared in more than 200 Hollywood movies. Vespa till date is the only scooter in the world to use a single piece monocoque chassis.

YAMAHA FZ RANGE GETS VISUAL UPDATES

NEW TVS APACHE RTR >> Yamaha has added new colour shades and graphics to its FZ-S, FZ and Fazer range. These models also get a wider and longer pillion seat and a new grab handle. The updated bikes come with a large and wide rear fender to help prevent mud splash, as well as a new chain protector. The FZ also

gets a new instrument console containing the speedometer, tachometer, trip meter, fuel gauge and other indicators. The new FZ is priced at IC Rs 69,250, the FZ-S at Rs 71,280, while the Fazer costs Rs 76, 380 (all prices ex-showroom Delhi).

>> TVS has just revamped its Apache RTR series of bikes. The range gets

revised styling, although all mechanicals remain unchanged. The new RTR 160 and 180 have undergone some serious cosmetic changes. Sadly, the bike does not look all that different from the current model and TVS has missed an opportunity for a more comprehensive revision. Even the new dual-tone colours on offer fail to liven up the bike’s styling. The huge visual makeover includes a new headlamp cluster that features LED pilot lamps, redesigned fuel tank and a carbon-fibre look for the LCD panel among others.

The cosmetic makeover is a disappointment because the overall ergonomics and performance is still the same. The new RTR 160 is priced at IC Rs 67,505 while the RTR 180 is priced at IC Rs 72,090 and the RTR 180 with ABS costs IC Rs 82,780.

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INDIA

FORD ECOSPORT PRODUCTION READY >> Ford’s new global

BAJAJ PULSAR SALES CROSS 5 MILLION >> The Bajaj Pulsar family have achieved

a huge milestone, crossing 5 million sales since its inception. The Pulsar brand which started with two engine capacities – 150cc and 180cc – is now available with four power plants ranging from 135cc to 220cc. Not only they were the first ones to incorporate gas-charged suspension, LED tail-lamps and digital instrumentation but they have also made a huge technological leap with the Digital Twin Spark Ignition Technology (DTS-I) and the upcoming Pulsars featuring the triple spark ignition.

vehicle, the EcoSport is production ready and is very much sticking with the original concept styling. The EcoSport is the offering of the ‘One Ford’ global product, a vehicle designed to help expand Ford’s market in the world’s fastest-growing auto markets. Codenamed as the B515, the EcoSport is being built on Ford’s award-winning global compact car platform (B2E) developed with Mazda, which focuses on weight saving and torsional rigidity. The EcoSport also shares plenty of mechanics with the new Fiesta saloon.

Ford will debut an economical new 1.0-litre, three-cylinder, eco-boost direct-injection turbo petrol motor in the EcoSport – a world debut – that is capable of developing power similar to a bigger, 1.6-litre motor. The car will also get the 1.5-litre diesel engine that is currently in the Fiesta. The small-displacement engine will produce 118bhp power and torque of 170nm, which should be more than enough to move it around. The five door utility vehicle has plenty of smart technologies such as Ford’s SYNC driver connect system with voice control, smart keyless entry, Ford Power Start, and a cooled bin in the glovebox. According to Ford, the Ecosport will be sold in over 100 world markets.

HONDA CB SHINE GETS VISUAL UPDATES >> Honda’s 125cc CB Shine has got some visual updates in India. The bike is now available in two new colours – Force Silver Metallic and Monsoon Grey Metallic, along with the existing colours. It also gets new graphics on the fuel tank, side cover, rear cowl and a front visor. Similarly, Shine’s new two variants also come with tubeless tyres. Apart from these minor changes, the mechanical specs remain unchanged. The Shine will continue to be sold at all the dealerships with prices starting from IC Rs 47,804 (ex-showroom, Delhi).

MAHINDRA BUILDING NEW SCORPIO >> Mahindra &

Mahindra has begun works on the new Scorpio. Codenamed as the W105, the new Scorpio will be based on a heavily modified version of the current Scorpio’s platform. The new Scorpio however is likely to have a long wheelbase to help it overcome the current Scorpio’s lack of legroom in the second row. According to sources, there will be an all-new body, an updated version of the

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MARUTI ERTIGA MPV LAUNCHED >> Maruti India has launched its much-awaited MPV called the Ertiga. The Ertiga is

coming up with a killer starting price of IC Rs 5.89 lakhs for the petrol version while the base- diesel variant starts from IC Rs 7.30 lakhs. The all-new Ertiga, which is based on the current Swift platform, is Maruti’s first crack at the MPV segment. It hopes to open a crack at the MPV segment, being priced lower than conventional MPVs such as the Mahindra Xylo and Toyota Innova. It targets the urban families, looking for a medium-sized vehicle which is easy to drive and economical to maintain to meet their lifestyle needs. The Ertiga comes in six variants, three each with petrol and diesel motors and seven paint-shades.

The petrol Ertiga gets a new K14B 1.4-litre motor for the first time that is equipped with variable-valve timing (VVT) and delivers 95bhp. The diesel Ertiga variant will sport the 1.3 litre high-power DDIS engine licensed from Fiat and also seen in the SX4.

M-Hawk engine and the new Scorpio could also include dynamics from the ambitious lightweight Scorpio project, known internally as T026. The development of the new Scorpio is currently being carried out at Mahindra’s new research facility in Chennai, known as Mahindra Research Valley (MRV) which is full of high-tech labs and facilities. www.autolife.com.np

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INternational

MAN BEHIND THE PORSCHE 911 DIES >> Ferdinand Alexander Porsche nicknamed “Butzi”, the man behind the design of original Porsche 911 sportscar has died at the age of 76.

Born on December 11 1935 in Stuttgart, Alexander Porsche was the grandson of Porsche founder Ferdinand Porsche.

Porsche followed in the footsteps of his grandfather and designed the 911 in the late 1950s and early 1960s, with the car making its first official appearance at the Frankfurt motor show in 1963. He also designed a number of racing cars for Porsche, before leaving in 1972 and was on the supervisory board until the mid-2000s. He established a design culture that can be found in Porsche sports cars till today.

APRILIA RS4 125 BIAGGI REPLICA UNVEILED >> Aprilia has unveiled the 2012 Aprilia RS4 125 SBK replica, featuring a Max Biaggi replica paint scheme. As well as the Biaggi paint scheme, which celebrates Biaggi’s WSB championship lead after the first three rounds of 2012, the RS4 now comes with Pirelli Diablo Rosso II tyres, wavy discs, quick shifter and single seat cowl. At £4,299, the SBK Replica is £200 more than the standard RS4.

2013 MERCEDES BENZ G-CLASS & G63 AMG

>> Mercedes Benz has debuted the boxy 2013 G-class and G63 AMG SUV’s in the worldwide market. The G550 gets a 5.5-litre V8 with 388 bhp and 530 Nm of torque while the 2013 G63 AMG gets the latest 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 found in several other Mercedes models delivering 544 bhp and 760Nm. It gets an engine stop-start feature as standard as well. Both these machines are tuned to a seven-speed automatic transmission. Similarly, it also gets radar-based cruise control, Blind Spot Assist and Parktronic System. The exterior gets only visual changes like a set of LED daytime running lights positioned below the headlights and revised side mirror housing. The AMG model gets unique 20-inch wheels, red brake caliper, bumpers with larger intakes, and a custom radiator grille with double louvers. The latest model also features three electrically controlled 100 percent differential locks plus ladder frame and rigid axle characteristics.

FERRARI TRYING TO GO GREEN

>> Ferrari, the legendary Italian car maker has unveiled a new hybrid engine. This engine combines a traditional V12 engine with an electric motor via a dual-clutch gearbox and is an evolution of the HY-KERS motor of 2010. Rumours suggest that this engine will make it to the upcoming Enzo replacement that Ferrari has been testing for next year. The engine is borrowed from Ferrari’s F1 program to optimize torque management, traction control and brake distribution. It fires multiple (at least three sparks) per stroke in the interest of best combustion efficiency. Ferrari also claims this combination of an efficient V12 and electric motors reduces emissions by as much as 40 percent compared to a traditional V12.

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HONDA CROSSTOURER SE UNVEILED

BOOKINGS START FOR KIA K9

>> 18 years ago, Ayrton Senna tragically

>> Honda has launched its fully kitted up Crosstourer SE adventure bike in UK. The SE comes with all the bells and whistles which were optional in the standard model and costs £1900 more than the standard at £13,375. The accessories that this motorcycle comes with include a 39 litre expandable aluminium look top box, centre stand, heated grips, and matching panniers with a total capacity of 12.3 litres and a front cowl bar. Honda is offering its dual clutch transmission on both the standard and SE.

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LOTUS PAYS TRIBUTE TO ‘SENNA’

>> Order books for Kia’s new saloon – the Kia K9 – have opened in Korea.

The all-new car will also be launched in some export markets by the end of the year. The K9 is Kia’s first rear wheel-drive saloon and from launch, is powered by a 286bhp 3.8litre V6 petrol engine; later in the year, a hotter 330bhp version will be made available.

Power is driven to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic gearbox. At 5090mm in length, 1900mm in width and 1490mm in height, the Kia K9 is similar in size to the Mercedes S-class.

Standard equipment included in the K9 comprises LED headlamps, a lane departure warning system, radar-based blind-spot detection, and an aroundview monitor system (AVM) with four cameras.

died at the San Marino GP, changing the face of Formula One practically overnight.

His provenance is well documented; he was a three-time world champion and one of the world’s most naturally gifted drivers. So, a German company called Cam-Shaft Premium Wrapping has decided to honour this rather tragic anniversary with a special edition Lotus. The Esprit gets a black and gold livery mirroring the one Ayrton had on his Lotus 97T, the car he picked up his first ever GP win in - as well as a reprint of his signature that adorns the front of the door. It’s almost a perfect tribute to the driving God.

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2050 Humm

Dongfeng EQ

Geely Yinglun SC7-R5 model 24

Chrysler 300 Ruyi Concept

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Honda Co

Lamborghini Urus SUV Concept www.autolife.com.np

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Smar t Car Dra

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Renault Captur Concept

Toyota NS4 Plug-In Hybrid Concept

Mercedes G63 AMG

Infiniti Emerg-E Concept

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ncept

Hyundai BHCD-1 Co

Concept Style Co

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MG Icon Concept

ina Limited Edition

Jeep Wrangler Dr

Lotus Evora GTE Ch agon

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think about it autolife

readers write

T

oday when you buy or build something expensive, it will perform for a short while and it will stop functioning. You will then throw it away since no one else will want it, even though you probably spent a fortune on it. This applies to everything except for ‘Wet Wipes’. Now wet wipes don’t stop working after a short while but they actually never work in the first place. Anyway, it applies to everything else.

Examine, if you will, your current mobile phone. How long have you had it? I’m willing to bet the answer to that is ‘less than two years’.

So what happened to the one you had previously? It’s probably lying in a drawer somewhere, isn’t it? And it’s broken! It might not have been broken when you put it there, but it surely refuses to start now.

That’s the miraculous thing about most items that are built to perform a function in the 21st century.

They tend to break when you drop them on the floor or they fall down sooner or later. Or they break for no reason that one fine day of the week. They also break when you leave them alone.

For example, let me give you a list of things which I currently have and aren’t working. The main switch in my dining room. The ceiling light in the baby’s room.

The Wi-Fi connection in my house. The DVD player. My old laptop. Even the garage padlock with that infamous ‘Made in China’ stamp on it.

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June 2012

The list goes on…

And here’s the really big inconvenience. In the brief period when something does work alright, it becomes invaluable. You wonder how you ever managed without it. So when it stops, your life is ruined. Imagine trying to spend a day at work without a mobile phone. Unless you are a terrorist with no friends or ‘clients’, or a true Sherpa who is used to living on the mountains sans mobile network, it would be impossible.

We used to manage, but now it would be like trying to work without a head. Or lungs.

Or both! Sadly, all of this is making one’s life extremely expensive because when something goes wrong, you cannot repair it on most occasions.

watt bulbs. The expensive ‘power saving’ CFL bulbs be damned! Energy conservation techs, solar power, rainwater harvesting? Nope.

And I’d have a typewriter.

Strangely, this logic doesn’t apply to cars. I drive a 42 year old car, which surprisingly only breaks down about twice a year. My wife’s Santro was punctured the other day, and it was still about a good 7 kms drive before we eventually figured out there was a nail that had gone through the rubber. I’m pretty sure it’s the same story with the rest of the cars. When was the last time your car broke down?

Your answer probably is ‘I can’t remember’. When was the last time you had a puncture? Your answer probably is ‘Hmmm…about a year ago’. You see, a tyre will never burst because it is bored with being a tyre. Nowadays, with the ‘tubeless’ tyres, you can drive through a nail festival and emerge unscathed on the other side.

Only if automobile companies manufactured...

I have yet to meet anyone who can repair an iPhone.

You have to get a new one.

And you might as well go out and get the latest model immediately because life is now impossible without it.

So I have decided that if I were to live my life again, I would build a house with no gadgets in it whatsoever.

And when I say no gadgets, I mean nothing from the 21st century. There would be no Birla pudding in the walls.

The windows would be in simple wooden frames. The lights would be bright 40

The reason for all this is that car makers go to tremendous lengths to ensure their products don’t turn into throwaway designer items that are bought and discarded like handbags, mobiles, glasses, etc. At times, the cars are rigorously tested on water and heat to

Prasanna KC, is a banker by profession, teacher by hobby and a writer at heart...

see how it would function under extreme conditions.

Heck, most of the models are first smashed into a wall head on before they actually allow common people to try it themselves. As a result, you have cars that last for generations.

I therefore have a suggestion. To make the world a better place, automobile companies should now be allowed to run it. I want Volkswagen to sell BlackBerry sets. I want Hyundai to sell Chinese lights at Sundhara. I want Chevrolet to sell a DVD player that lasts for more than a couple of years. And yes, I want a mechanic from Ford to repair that ‘Made in China’ padlock on my garage door…

You see, a tyre will never burst because it is bored with being a tyre.

Nowadays, with the ‘tubeless’ tyres, you can drive through a nail festival and emerge unscathed on the other side. www.autolife.com.np

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May/June 2012

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l autolife

Coverage

Words: Ayush Dhaubanjar t the moment, Nepal seriously lacks any professional infrastructure that is fit for promoting motorsports. So events related to automobile competitions are usually hard to come by due to this limitation. There are a few events that happen once in a blue moon, but you never hear of its continuation the next time around. But a one-off among all these is the Ford City Chase, which took place this year again on 28th April 2012 for the third successive time.

The Ford City Chase is a sort of Car Treasure Hunt within the Kathmandu City organized by JA Forum, Student Council of Kathmandu College of Management (KCM). This event involves a team of a driver and navigator in each car competing with other teams to find correct answers to a trail of clues.

Participating vehicles are provided with clues and hints to various hidden locations around the valley. The team 28

June 2012

which reaches all the locations, completes all the specified tasks and reaches the finish line in the earliest time is decided as the winner. The best thing of this event, apart from the competition, is the absolute fun while going about town to solve the clues. Participants have to use both their driving sensibilities and mental skills in order to win.

This year’s edition was organized in collaboration with GO Ford Nepal, just like the last year. The registration fee was priced at Rs 3,000 for a team. I have been participating in this event since its inception and this time too I made sure that I didn’t miss out on the fun. My friend Sohyal Karki was the driver for the day

The Ford City Chase is a sort of Car Treasure Hunt within the Kathmandu City organized by JA Forum, Student Council of Kathmandu College of Management (KCM). This event involves a team of a driver and navigator in each car competing with other teams to find correct answers to a trail of clues www.autolife.com.np

and I played the navigator, both of us representing AutoLife. The starting point for the chase was the Satdobato Swimming Complex and this time there were nearly 50 cars of different brands and segments. After some event briefing by the organizers and road rules by the traffic police, numbers were called out and we set out for the thrilling chase. All participants were timed and given a maximum of three and a half hours, to complete the 16 tasks. We were handed out a map that was highlighted with 16 different images of various locations around the valley. It was then up to us to interpret the exact locations and set out on the shortest route that was possible. The hints weren’t that difficult and we easily made out every location on the map. The only challenge was figuring out the fastest route through the 16 spots around the city.

We chose the one starting from Koteshwor and advanced towards Pashupati, Bouddha, Dhumbarahi, Bhat Bhateni, Kamalpokhari, Putali Sadak, Thapathali, New Road, Chhauni, Swayambhu, Kalimati, Tripureshwor, Pulchowk , Sanepa and finally rounding off back at Satdobato. Some of the tasks were very interesting from dancing to girly bollywood numbers at the Salsa Academy, counting prayer wheels at Bouddhanath Stupa, wall-climbing at the Pasang Lhamu Centre, drinking bitter gourd soup at Yellow Chilli, changing tyres at the Ford Service Centre, gulping down a glass of freezing ice-bits at Cuppas Cafe, finding out the price of Potatoes at the Kalimati Vegetable Market to running the tiring ten floors up the terrace at Meconopsis Hotel.

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AL’s Ayush and Sohyal in 3rd place We completed every given task and were the first to reach back at the end location. But we still had to make sure that no participants returned within the next 25 minutes, to turn out as the winner. Sadly two cars showed up in succession in the last 5 minutes and we ended third losing to second by just a 4 seconds margin and to first by just around 2 minutes.

Nevertheless we stood third and now looking at my jeep shining after the Waxoyl Care and Protection Package that we won, it seemed worth it after all. Anand Bahety and Sonu Agrawal finished first, Nitish Sari and Rashik Khadka finished second and my friend Sohyal Karki and me ended third. The winners of the Ford City Chase Version 3.0 were awarded with 2 units of Parrot AR Drone, runners-up were given Parrot Handsfree System whereas the third prize was Waxoyl Care and Protection Package each. The top ten participants were also handed out consolation prizes from Waxoyl.

This game is a very interesting concept that the students of KCM have come up with and it was a very fun filled event. It deserves the applause, and events like these should happen more often. But like everything else in the world, it is still not perfect in execution.

The tasks need to be more difficult and points should be given as per the efficiency in solving each task. This way it feels more competitive and justified to those who participate with the true spirit of competition. Participants should also be ensured that all the tasks points other than likely sponsor locations have been kept a secret and there should be no leniency on part of the volunteers and organizers towards their close ones.

Volunteers at the task points also need to be very strict with enforcing the task rules and shouldn’t actually go missing from the task point for stuffs like lunch.

Otherwise, this is a bloody well executed event and sure will go a long way in Nepal. Until the next chase...

We completed every given task and were the first to reach back at the end location. But we still had to make sure that no participants returned within the next 25 minutes, to turn out as the winner

June 2012

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autolife

test drive

small car big ambitions Review & photography: al team

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June 2012

www.autolife.com.np

Maruti Suzuki Swift www.autolife.com.np

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When the Maruti Suzuki Swift was first launched back in 2005, it sort of revolutionized the hatchback market. With its very European styling influences and sporty character, the Swift had enough to grab the attention of most and has won many a hearts since then. For six long years it stood as a formidable competitor in the market without any major upgrades. Major overhaul in design came by only last year in 2011 and in India the prelaunch bookings alone exceeded 50000! Finally the much loved hatchback in its new avatar is here in Nepal and we were glad to have the keys for three days from the good folks at Maruti Suzuki Nepal. So what really has changed?

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EXTERIOR STYLING

As far as the design philosophy is concerned, the new Swift might look the same as its predecessor to the casual passer-by. But peep a little closer and you’ll notice the changes here and there; which actually does improve on its already pleasing visual persona. The new Swift is based on an all-new platform and is now both longer and wider. Both the larger headlamp and tail cluster with a sweptback design give the car a more distinctive and stretched look. Usually most cars that are pretty up front end up with a boring rear, as if the designer hurriedly sketched the final aspect. But the Swift begs to differ. It is more like that pretty girl who has your attention not only when she approaches you, but keeps your eyes glued even after she passes away.

Look at it from anywhere and it will easily seal the deal for you. Wheel arches are also more prominent and along with the curvy shoulder line and sloping roofline,

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the Swift now flaunts a sportier and crisp look. The body coloured door handles and side indicators on the side mirrors enhance the looks of the car. There is also an increase in tyre size, and the alloys on the ZXi variant are pretty impressive.

It is more like that pretty girl who has your attention not only when she approaches you, but keeps your eyes glued even after she passes away

Now all this doesn’t stop here. The Swift is one of those few cars out there in the market with which you can play around with lot of customization options and come out with a much sportier hatch.

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INTERIORS AND FEATURES The interiors on the highest variant, the Swift ZXi, largely differs from the old car. An all black theme has been adopted to flaunt the car’s young and sporty intentions. There is also a tasteful use of bits of chrome and silver accents. The centre console has been nicely laid out with the soft touch dials.

The instrument cluster has a mini digital display between the speedo and tacho which displays trip details, fuel efficiency data, clock and outdoor temperature. The console looks superb and the illuminated steering-mounted controls feel good to operate. The cabin is spacious and roomy with good legroom front and back, but rear passengers might feel claustrophobic on long drives due to the small window area.

The tiny boot space and lack of dead pedal might also be a disappointment for those long haul journeys. The highest variant is loaded with safety and comfort factors like ABS, SRS Airbags, Electronic Brake Force Distribution with brake assist, steering tilt option, power windows, three way driver seat adjuster, automatic climate control, lane change indicator, high-end 4 speaker stereo with radio and CD Player, intelligent speed based auto volume and an Aux-in

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and USB socket. There are also some practical touches like the retractable cup holder for driver side passenger and in centre console, rear seatback folding centre locking, keyless entry, remote fuel lid opener, electromagnetic back door opener, rear window defogger and rear wiper with washer.

PERFORMANCE

Well, what really is the purpose if it’s only show and no go? The old Swift was very satisfying as a driver’s car and here the Maruti guys have cleverly stuck on to the old adage, ‘Don’t fix it if it ain’t broke!’ So the new Swift is mated to same tried and tested 1.2L

engine, but with variable valve timing on the intake valves, which makes the engine both more efficient and more powerful. The petrol engine now manages to generate 85bhp @ 6000 rpm and a decent torque of 114Nm at 4000 rpm. You feel at home from the get go itself with the well placed seats, foot levers, gears and steering. It doesn’t take long to get familiar with this car and pretty quickly you get in touch as if you have been driving one for years. The engine is surprisingly quiet and vibration-free even at higher revs and feels lively at any given gear and rpm.

The clutch is well balanced and the precise and smooth gears are at just a short throw.

The 5 speed gearbox is different from the outgoing version’s transmission and these new boxes offer smoother gear transitions.

The stiff monocoque chassis coupled with the rally-based suspension and sporty steering feel makes sure you enjoy the drive. Steering is precise and offers very good feedback. It is a scorcher of a performer even with the cabin kept cool by the A/C on full blast. The overall drive quality is where the new Swift definitely doesn’t disappoint. www.autolife.com.np

FINAL VERDICT

The new Swift is a true successor to the older hatch and hangs on to its legacy. The new Swift not only lives up to the older Swift but with the affordable price tag, new looks, enhanced features, impressive performance and more mileage, this new Swift sets a totally new benchmark. It is the perfect answer for urbanites who want a good looking convenient car that can also be fun on the right road. It’s not only one hell of a looker but a hoot to drive as well.

If there is a hatchback that you ought to own right now, then this is it. Period!

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GUESTs review At first glance, I saw the very same Swift that we have all come to love. But when looking at it more carefully, I realized that it has changed a lot. Overall it has changed into a sportier, younger and trendier swift! Interiors have undergone a sea of changes from the dull and drab looking ones to a more stylish and youthful design. The plastics used are of a much better quality than before. It was very easy getting used to the control. The refined engine has no noise at all and sometimes it was hard to tell whether the car was on or off when idle. The pickup in low RPM was fairly good. When it comes to performance, it is simply swift. The handling and ride quality is simply amazing. I was able to drive it effortlessly in Kathmandu’s chaotic traffic. The suspensions add on to the whole driving experience. Few areas it could improve on are missing dead pedal and small boot space. Overall it’s a fun and easy car to drive.

Neeraj Rimal Assistant Manager, ParkwayHealth Patient Assistance Centre Currently Drives: Skoda Fabia, Hyundai i20

The exterior looks aggressive and seems well built for a hatch back. Interiors though could have been better.

Dashboard has a plastic feel but dials are very well done. Seating is super comfortable and the power side mirrors are perfect. Adjustable steering could have been better and power steering is good; but again not superb as compared to other cars in its segment. A major let down for me personally is the dead pedal which is missing. While going for long drive it’s a pain on the left leg. But leg space is great and air conditioning is top notch. Power delivery and pick up is up to the mark for a 1.2 litre class and there was no significant drop in power during uphill or fast acceleration. Gears shifting pattern is also smooth and pleasant. I would personally recommend this car to anyone who would like to go for a feature packed hatch back at the 24-27Lacs price range. Overall this is a superb car for Nepalese road.

Ashutosh Shrestha Co-Founder, Vootoo Entertainment Currently Rides/Drives: Yamaha R6, Daewoo Lagenza

SPECIFICATIONS

ENGINE Type: K-series 4 Cylinder with VVT Displacement: 1197cc Fuel Type: Petrol Maximum Power: 85 Bhp @ 6000 rpm Maximum Torque: 114 Nm @ 4000 rpm Transmission: 5 Manual DIMENSIONS & WEIGHT Length: 3850 mm Width: 1695 mm Height: 1530 mm Wheelbase: 2430 mm Ground Clearance: 170mm Tyre Size: 165/80R14 or 185/65 R15 Suspension Front: MacPherson Struts Suspension Rear: Torsion Beam Brakes Front: Ventilated Discs Brakes Rear: Drums Dry Weight: 970kg Fuel Tank: 42L PRICING AS PER VARIANTS VXi: Nrs.24,49,000/ZXi: Nrs.26,69,000/COLOR OPTIONS Blazing Red, Torque Blue, Glistering Grey, Silky Silver, Arctic White, Midnight Black

ALTERNATIVE CHOICES Chevrolet Aveo U-VA, Fiat Punto, Ford Figo, Great Wall Florid, Hyundai i20, Kia Picanto, Skoda Fabia, Tata Indica Vista, Volkswagen Polo

I have been driving the older Swift for the last three years and the new swift definitely feels much improved from the older version. The engine noise seems a lot quiet and felt like the engine pick-up was better. Time taken for 0-60 km/h has to be better. There was also no lag in the engine power even when the AC was switched on. It feels smoother and easier to manoeuvre; power steering is probably better. The interiors have improved with the switches, dials and illumination.

The indicator and wiper switch/knobs are better. Rough roads aren’t a bother because of the very good ground clearance. The wider rear view mirrors provide a better view and are further enhanced by the electronic adjustment option.

The improved headlight and taillight design does justice to the new look. It is easily comparable to others in the segment and in fact even better than most similar sized models.

Ashish Bhattarai Human Resources Head, Kumari Bank Ltd Currently Drives: Maruti Suzuki Swift (previous model)

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June 2012

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autolife

COVERAGE

READY TO

>>

RACE NAKED???

Words: Ayush Dhaubanjar

The very affordable pricing of the KTM 200 Duke is simply enough to give any passionate biker not a single reason on why he shouldn't really buy one

W

ishes do come true after all. Back in our 2nd Issue in the WISHLIST section, we had wished for the KTM brand of motorcycles to grace the ever increasing two wheeler industry in Nepal. To our extreme delight, the brand has finally set shop here in Nepal at Naxal, Kathmandu as of May 15th, 2012. And boy wasn’t the lavishly set and well choreographed 5-star launch party a night to remember! In fact, with the naked theme of the KTM 200 Duke encapsulating the entire event, some of the attendees actually ended up literally expecting more nakedness to unveil during the awesome belly dance sequences aided by the crazy laser light beams. Well that was indeed the closest one could have got to nakedness in a public media event and it was the star of the event, The 200 Duke who stood there in the most naked form any motorcycle could have got to. As expected, the Austrian manufacturer is all set to win 38

June 2012

KTM Business Head Joseph Sebastian briefing enthusiasts at the launch

the hearts of many Nepalese bikers with its best and most suitable offering – The KTM 200 DUKE. Off course, the best thing about the launch was the announcement of its surprisingly low introductory price tag of Rs.3,49,900/- only! This pricing is simply enough to give any passionate biker not a single reason on why he shouldn’t really buy one.

So firstly, let us introduce you to the power of the KTM brand. Kraftfahrzeuge Trunkenpolz Mattighofen(KTM) is an Austrian manufacturer that has been offering world-class motorcycles ever since 1953. Currently, they are not only one of Europe’s No. 1 sports bike brand, but as well the unsurpassed world leader in the off-road biking segment. No other brand has been more successful in off-road motorcycle racing in the recent decades. KTM bikes are built ready to race and have been crossing the finishing line first in many international events. To date, KTM bikes have won more than 200 world championship titles – including the toughest and most prestigious Dakar Rally, not once but a whopping 11 times in succession. In an

interesting turn of events in November 2007, Indian two-wheeler manufacturer Bajaj Auto had acquired 14.5% stake in KTM Power Sports AG and has been constantly increasing their stake which now stands at a majority of 47%. So, we can sure expect to ride a lot of KTM motorcycles in the future and at a much cheaper price tag when more products starts rolling out from its Bajaj affiliated factory in India.

The first KTM to be made available in Nepal is the KTM Duke 200. The KTM Duke 200 is also the first offering from the Bajaj-KTM stable and is manufactured at Bajaj’s plant in Chakan near Pune, India. The Duke 200 shares its naked street-fighter looks with its big brother, the 990 Super Duke R and the 690 Duke. It is powered by a single cylinder, liquid cooled, DOHC, 4-valve, 200cc motorcycle which produces 25 bhp of maximum power @ 10000 rpm and 19.2 nm of torque @ 8000 rpm. It has a naked beast styling that can also be easily changed to give out a more aggressive look with the in-house available KTM Power Parts accessories.

The speedometer also deserves a notable www.autolife.com.np

mention here with its never seen before features like gear indicator, distance to service, distance to empty, average speed during trip, average fuel consumption, two trip meters and speed display options

riding pleasure, powerful propulsion and dynamic cornering fun. It will also be unbeatable with its sensational power-toweight ratio, thanks to an ultra-low weight of 126 kg.

SPECIFICATIONS both in kmph and mph. It also features a digital clock, engine temperature, indicator display, tachometer, fuel gauge, etc among those many features. The KTM Duke 200 is probably the only 200cc naked bike in the world with real racing genes. High-tech components, ultra-compact design, light tubular space frame and state-of-the-art electronics is bound to ensure maximum

Launched at an introductory price of Rs. 3,49,900/-, the KTM Duke 200 will be available at the exclusive KTM showroom in Naxal, Kathmandu and through the various Bajaj dealerships across the country.

The company will also provide after sales service and genuine spare parts from their service centre located in Gairidhara, along with KTM Power Parts & KTM Power Wears.

SOME OF THE NOTABLE FEATURES OF THE KTM 200 DUKE • Solid and ultra light Trellis tubular space frame with a well triangulated structure giving it high rigidity and proper riding dynamics.

• A low short stub three chamber exhaust with a stainless steel header positioned between the swingarm and engine for the optimum centre of gravity.

• Superbly finished lighter die-cast aluminium swing arm.

• 43mm WP Upside Down forks at the front and WP rear mono-shock which ensures stable and precise performance under extreme handling.

• Leading power to weight ratio of 185bhp/ ton in its class aided by the high revving and lightweight engine. www.autolife.com.np

• KTM’s trademark orange colour with cool graphics and plenty of options of KTM Power Parts aftermarket modifications.

• Slick and wide radial tires at the front & rear.

• Radial brake caliper at the front and floating caliper brakes at the rear.

• Cool & stylish backlit switches, LED blinkers, lights and license plate illumination.

• A state of the art electronics and computer like speedometer offering various never seen before functions.

• 5 spoke & shaped alloy wheels.

• Aluminium-cast rider and pillion footpegs.

• Zero maintenance battery.

• Hydroformed handlebars which provide better strength at clamping location.

ENGINE Engine Type: 4 Stroke, DOHC 4V Cylinder Layout: Single Cylinder Cooling System: Liquid Cooled Displacement: 199.5cc Bore & Stroke: 72 mm x 49mm Compression Ratio: 11.5 : 1 Maximum Power: 25 Bhp @ 10000 RPM Maximum Torque: 19.2 Nm @ 8000 RPM Starting Method: Electric Lubrication: Wet Sump Fuel System: Fuel Injection Clutch: Wet Multiplate-Disc Transmission: 6 Speed Final Drive: Chain FEATURES Frame Type: Steel Trellis Frame Wheelbase: 1350mm Seat Height: 810mm Ground Clearance: 165mm Front Suspension: 43mm WP Upside Down Rear Suspension: WP Monoshock Front Tire: 110/70-17 Rear Tire: 150/60-17 Front Brake: 280mm Disc Rear Brake: 230mm Disc Dry Weight: 126kg Fuel Tank: 11 Litre PRICING: 3,49,900/June 2012

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autolife

personality

my autolife

Ashish Shrestha

Interview: Ankit Shakya I Photography: Sanat Dangol

Executive Chairman of Leon Motors Pvt.Ltd (MITSUBISHI) ake a stroll down memory lane and you will cringe at how brutally the Mitsubishi Pajero dominated the automobile scene in Nepal, especially when it came to SUV’s. In fact, there are still many who swear by the Pajero as the ultimate choice when it comes to a rugged and capable SUV. So it wouldn’t be wrong to assume that it was the Pajero brand that established Mitsubishi as a household name here in Nepal.

Now this is where Leon Motors Private Limited, the only authorized distributor for Mitsubishi Motors Corporation in Nepal, comes in.

With Mr. Ashish Shrestha at the helm, Leon Motors has been successfully catering to Mitsubishi customers over the last four years. An avid golfer in the past, Ashish Shrestha had started Leon Motors as an interest and passion in cars. Till today he heads Leon Motors with the same passion, shouldering the responsibility as the Executive Chairman for the company. Between all this, he also makes sure that he devotes enough time to his precious daughter. So AutoLife Magazine sat down with Ashish Shrestha for a tete-a-tete, to learn more about his dynamic character and passion for wheels.

I have driven Ferraris, Bentley, Mercedes S-Class, Mercedes CL600, BMW 750i and BMW 850 40

June 2012

AL: Rumour has it, that your garage is lined up with one of the most exclusive cars in the country. So is it for real? Tell us more about it.

Ashish Shrestha: Well maybe. My garage currently consist of a Mercedes E350, Mitsubishi 3000GT, Lancer EX 1.5, Lancer EX 2.0 and 3 variants of the Pajero. I also do not believe in “scrapping” or selling off my cars. To me cars, or any other vehicle for that matter, hold a lot of emotions and memories. Maybe that’s why I still love my 3-door Pajero that my father got for me back in high school.

AL: Now that’s a line up any motorhead would envy.

So which one do you usually drive?

Ashish Shrestha: Well, that really depends on my mood and the occasion. For instance, I prefer to let my driver drive me on my Pajero when I go around for government related and official tasks during the day time. But on an occasional basis, I prefer to drive my Lancer EX 2.0L with the CVT transmission. www.autolife.com.np

AL: Which is the first car you drove?

Ashish Shrestha: When I was 12, our driver (his name was Shahdev), taught me how to drive.

I remember the car to be a Pajero that my family owned back then.

AL: If you could wish for one automobile marquee to have a showroom here in Nepal, not yet present, which would it be?

Ashish Shrestha: I love luxury cars. But to be honest, I do not see a market for it in Nepal. The exorbitant 240% tax rate really is a bother. Nevertheless, I’d absolutely love to see the Audi brand here in Nepal.

AL: Till date, which is the best or the most exclusive car that you have driven?

Ashish Shrestha: In Nepal, it has to be my very own Mitsubishi 3000GT and my friend’s Mazda

RX-7. Internationally, I have driven a few Ferraris, Bentley, Mercedes S-Class, Mercedes CL600, BMW 750i and BMW 850.

AL: Hatchbacks, Sedans or SUVs? Ashish Shrestha: Though I personally prefer Sedans, it is undoubtedly the SUV’s that is best for Nepal.

AL: Where do you think is the best destination to drive to in Nepal?

Ashish Shrestha: At the moment, if speed is what you crave, the newly laid Araniko Highway is the best. But mind you, it is very risky. I got up to a 170km/h on my 3000GT, during Dashain time when the road was pretty deserted. And even then it was difficult. Another road I love is the dead straight stretch on the west from Narayanghat to Butwal. I personally also

like the twists and turns because that’s where you get to feel the car and show off your skills and experience. Maybe that’s why I prefer to watch the WRC Rallies over F1 Races.

AL: In your opinion, what is the worst thing about driving in Nepal and what is the best?

Ashish Shrestha: The worst thing about driving in Nepal has to be the roads. Sometimes the potholes really

depress me. Although the traffic rules and regulations are getting better, there is still room for improvement.

Special care needs to be taken regarding the micro buses, taxis and motorcyclists.

Everyone knows why.

Proper education and regulations are a must.

Although it may not be politically correct to say this, but the lack of rules and regulations has to be the best thing about driving in Nepal. I guess the lack of rules can sometimes be a boon. But this in no way implies that I rather have the things the way they are right now. I strongly support the implementation of all the traffic rules and regulations, but why not enjoy it when they are yet to be enforced.

AL: If you were given complete control of the country, what changes would you bring about in the automotive scene of Nepal?

Ashish Shrestha: The first and foremost thing I’d do is restructure our absurd duty and tax structure. Today there is this whole new level of automobiles in the world that are more technologically advanced and environment friendly. The only thing keeping our country from

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enjoying this benefit is the ridiculous tax rates.

AL: How do you feel about the road widening and new roads construction project that is going on in the capital?

Ashish Shrestha: To be honest, I think it is a great initiative. If all goes well, we are looking at a future where the roads of Kathmandu might never be a chaotic jumble. In fact, I hear there are plans of building flyovers too.

AL: And the enforcement on drunk driving/riding, MA PA SE…?

Ashish Shrestha: This too is a good initiative, but the fact that not even a drop of alcohol is allowed seems preposterous.

There should at least be a legal limit, but nevertheless it is a sign of improvement.

AL: Which is the ultimate dream car you’d like to own?

Ashish Shrestha: If you had asked me this question a few years ago, I would have probably named an exclusive sports car.

However, my interest has changed in the past few years and my likings are now more lenient towards the luxury line. So, I’d love to have a Rolls Royce Phantom/Ghost or a Bentley Continental.

But I would not shy away from an Aston Martin either. Come

to think of it, I wouldn’t mind owning a Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution too. It has the perfect combination of a sports and sedan styling to knock anyone off their feet.

AL: One wicked or crazy thing that you have done while behind the wheels?

Ashish Shrestha: I have done a lot of crazy things in Nepal when I was young.

But I will share with you this crazy thing which I had done when I went for a vacation in the States during my college days. I was studying in UK and my very good friend had called me in the States. We had rented a Lexus GS350 and around midnight I was teaching my friend to do a 360° donut in the parking lot

of a restaurant. Suddenly, a guy from the restaurant popped his head and started calling out to someone. Assuming that he was calling on the cops and since we were aware of the strict driving rules and regulation in the US, we madly raced out of the scene in the fear of being jailed!!!

AL: Your most memorable moment on a car or bike?

Ashish Shrestha: There are many but one which I will never be able to forget in my life is the time when my Mitsubishi 3000GT arrived in Kathmandu. It was the super car of the era; fast and furious with that perfect 36-24-36 figure.

To be honest, I could not believe the beauty of the car. In fact, it still grabs a lot of attention when I take it out on the streets.

AL: Your message to all the auto lovers and owners in the country.

Ashish Shrestha: Don’t DRINK & DRIVE, and stick to the limits that only your skill can handle. Treat your cars like your own family giving it the best care and it will definitely reimburse you.

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autolife

test drive

Review & photography: al team

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Subaru Forester

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he segment of crossover SUVs is one of the most popular here in Nepal and it's easy to see why. The latest crossovers not only offer the spaciousness and functionality of a traditional SUV but also provide the sporty ride quality, handling and fuel economy of a sedan. But the Subaru Forester, inspite of being one of the first emerging crossover SUVs in the world to have invented the soft roader genre, still remains a sort of unsung hero in Nepal. To find out if the 2011 Subaru Forester really deserved more, we spent a weekend with the Forester accompanied by Mr. Sumed Shakya (Sales Officer at Subaru Nepal), who was well versed with various aspects of the car and briefed every bit before we took off for the drive.

EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR STYLING At a glance, the Forester is a handsome and well-proportioned crossover. It definitely isn’t as aggressive and modern looking as some of its competitors but the Forester's upright and boxy styling makes it ever-so-practical offering generous visibility from the inside.

The front end styling maintains a family resemblance to other Subaru’s and gives it a distinct identity. The roof rails along with the flared wheel arches and dual silencer at the rear adds character to the Forester. On the inside, the front cockpit design might come as a bit of disappointment for a car in this price range. Some cheaper crossovers of today have a more pleasing and stylish interior. The wdesign of the centre stack and easy to use controls are upright, with the top silver accented horizontal portion of the dash smoothly flowing into the doors. The instrument cluster is well laid out and the adjustable steering is equipped with a couple of buttons for various in car functions. The interiors though might not come as the best

in style, but is a highly functional cabin design. The hard wearing plastics are undoubtedly practical and it will probably never break. It’s easy to wipe surfaces will also gel well with the outdoorsy crowd.

A manual height-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support comes standard and the rear seat with optional reclining seatbacks deserves special mention here. Passengers at the rear will feel the most comfortable inside the Forester with the throne like spacious seating 46

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arrangement. The cargo area is generous, boasting 950 litre of space with the 60/40 split rear seatback raised and 1935 litre with it folded. Controls for folding the seats are very straightforward and within easy access.

Standard safety features on the 2012 Subaru Forester include antilock brakes with brake assist, traction and stability control, incline start assist, dual front airbags and side curtain airbags. www.autolife.com.np

The Forester felt nimble and the engine moves the car along without any strain, with the 5-speed manual transmission delivering precise shifts

automaker that uses this technology.

The petrol engine sounds good and purrs softly unless you really rev it out. Around town it proved as an easy driver with the seating position high enough to give a good view of surroundings. The Forester felt nimble and the engine moves the car along without any strain, with the 5-speed manual transmission delivering precise shifts. The crisp steering has a nice weighted feel and the tight turning circle also makes it surprisingly manoeuvrable

PERFORMANCE

The Forester 2.5XT is powered by a turbocharged horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine that churns out 230bhp and 320Nm of torque. The engine is a "boxer" configuration which means that the pistons fire to the sides from the centre of the engine block, creating better engine response and improved horsepower. Porsche is the only other www.autolife.com.np

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The Forester's all-wheel drive system, as it is on most Subaru's around the globe, provided enormous grip out of corners.

in tight quarters. The highway ride was also comfortable and appreciably fast with the turbo powering the heavy mass effortlessly. It’s on road handling is almost close to that of a sedan than of a tall crossover. The Forester's all-wheel drive system, as it is on most Subaru's around the globe, provided enormous grip out of corners. With its full-time all wheel drive system on hand, you also get that safe reassurance of traction should you suddenly find yourself on a wet and slippery patch through a fast corner.

Now since this Subaru proudly boasted of its Forester badge, we couldn’t

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FINAL VERDICT

The Forester offers buyers the rugged style of a traditional SUV along with its car-like ride and off road performance characteristics. Subaru Forester best represents a niche clientele who not only understands the brand’s rallying credibility but also is a kind of rugged individual who enjoys the great outdoors and also needs a car that is well suited to urban settings. Sure its NPR Rs.90Lakhs price tag places it in the premium segment where buyers might settle for other options in the market.

But the Forester based on the rallyproven Impreza platform comes from a popular Japanese breeder with a strong history of bulletproof reliability and makes for a strong contender. Just for assurance, Subaru also recently earned the top score in ‘Consumer Reports’ Automaker Report Cards for 2012 toppling many other more formidable and capable brands.

SPECIFICATIONS

really avoid provoking it by taking it near to a forest. The Forester turned out to not only be sporty on the road but easily conquered all the bumps and dreadful roads along the way without any hesitation. The Forester managed to provide a suitably smooth and comfortable ride over the bumpy surfaces.

On dirt roads and rough pavements the suspension does a good job and we did manage to have some fun off road and getting one of the wheels on air. It should also be capable of reaching most places with the worst of roads as it comes with a proper low-ratio transfer box for getting out of tight spots and 225mm of ground clearance. Another plus point here is that the Forester comes with a self levelling rear suspension which makes sure that even with a heavy load at the back the overall balance will not be hampered. It was definitely much nicer to drive than the usual soft-roader crowd. www.autolife.com.np

ENGINE Type: Horizontally Opposed, 4-Cylinder Turbocharged Displacement: 2457cc Fuel Type: Petrol Maximum Power: 230 Bhp @ 5200 rpm Maximum Torque: 320 Nm @ 2800 rpm Transmission: 5 Manual DIMENSIONS & WEIGHT Length: 4560 mm Width: 1780 mm Height: 1700 mm Wheelbase: 2615 mm Ground Clearance: 225mm Tyre Size: 225/55R17 Suspension Front: MacPherson Struts Suspension Rear: Double Wishbone Brakes Front: Ventilated Discs Brakes Rear: Discs Curb Weight: 1520kg Fuel Tank: 60L PRICE: Nrs.90,00,000/ALTERNATIVE CHOICES Ford Everest, Suzuki Grand Vitara, Mitsubishi Outlander, Nissan X-Trail, Toyota Fortuner, SsangYong Rexton

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l autolife

feature

Autobahn, Germany

the future of OUR roads... or is it?

Words: Saurav Nepal

f there’s one thing that we auto enthusiasts desire more than the supercars and superbikes, it has to be the ROADS! Cruising through excellent roads with zero traffic congestion is not only the key to a thrilling drive/ride but is also the best way to relax for an avid motorhead.

Our highways no doubt offer that relaxing feel with sensational views of the captivating and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes. But the quality of our roads especially in the cities, tell a completely different story. The inner city roads are an utter mess full 50

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Guoliang Tunnel Road, China

Col De Turini, France

Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road, UAE

Yamuna Expressway, India

Millau Viaduct Bridge, France

Transfagarasan, Romania

North Yungas ‘Road of Death’, Bolivia

Oberalp Pass, Switzerland

Stelvio Pass, Italy www.autolife.com.np PHOTO SOURCE: WORLD WIDE WEB

of potholes and traffic congestion with an eclectic mix of idiots ruling the roads.

Even the semi-smooth asphalt that can be found in a few places is usually covered with layers of dirt and stray animals sharing road space with the chaotic traffic.

Talking about the best roads in the world, one can’t miss mentioning notable road infrastructures like The Autobahn in Germany, The Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road of UAE, Millau Viaduct in France, The Great Ocean Road of Australia, The Overseas Highway of USA and The Atlantic road in Norway. The Autobahn in Germany was the first high speed road in the world having no speed limits except at a few points and was also sometimes used as a race track.

While the Millau Viaduct of France is an engineering marvel and the world’s tallest vehicular bridge offering some amazing landscapes.

Similarly mountain roads like The Col de Turini of France, Stelvio Pass in

On the dangerous sides, there is the infamous North Yungas “Road of Death” of Bolivia, Guoliang Tunnel Road in China and the Karakoram highway that connects China and Pakistan.

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The Great Ocean Road, Australia

Italy, Transfagarasan of Romania, Tail of The Dragon in USA, Oberalp Pass in Switzerland and Trollstigen of Norway not only offers breathtaking views but is a perfect mixture between smoothly laid challenging winding mountain roads and long fast straights. On the dangerous sides, there is the infamous North Yungas “Road of Death” of Bolivia, Guoliang Tunnel Road in China and the Karakoram highway that connects China and Pakistan. Even our neighbour down south deserves a worthy mention for their efforts with The Leh-Manali Highway, The Golden Quadrilateral Highway network, Bandra-Worli Sea Link, Mumbai-Pune Expressway, Delhi-Gurgaon Expressway and Yamuna Expressway. The 5846km long Golden Quadrilateral that connects India’s four top metropolitan cities Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata, is operated by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) and was built at a cost of 60,000 crore (US $ 11.97 billion). The 8-lane access controlled Delhi - Gurgaon Expressway is the most exciting

The Overseas Highway, USA

development in Indian transport history. This expressway can be linked with the best expressways in the world as it is incorporated with best of the design, engineering and safety technologies.

Unfortunately, inspite of similar geographical topographies with many of these European and Asian countries, we still lack the kind of road infrastructures to create the excellent driving/riding conditions. Thankfully, plans are finally being implemented by the current government and our roads are going through an instant transformation. The seeds have already been planted and outcomes are being seen. The 4-lane Arniko Highway road linking Kathmandu to Bhaktapur is the latest successful project that has immensely helped in raising the standard of roads in Nepal.

Approximately 9.1km segment of the Kathmandu-Bhaktapur section of road was upgraded by expanding the previous two-lane road to 4 lanes. This June 2012

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road was also designed to play a vital role in linking the capital city with the Eastern Terai via Arniko Highway and Dhulikhel-Bardibas road.

This recent demolition drive of bulldozing every concrete structure in the capital that had encroached on the roads over the past few decades has also been a success, with the government showing mercy to nobody.

As the government is finally strictly implementing a decision that was made way back in 1976, some citizens who lost property in the process have become irate with government’s sudden action. Of course, had this decision been strictly implemented back in the 19701980’s era itself, this public agony could have been easily avoidable. But kudos to the government for still moving ahead with full determination and we hope construction process too is completed at the same pace. After the extension, the roads of Kathmandu will definitely look a lot better and be easier to drive through.

After the extension, the roads of Kathmandu will definitely look lot better and be easier to drive through.

Recently, preliminary study regarding flyovers at busy intersections and Metro Railway in Kathmandu was also finalised. The outcomes were positive but it is yet to see if this too is just another overambitious project limited to the papers only.

Recently, preliminary study regarding flyovers at busy intersections and Metro Railway in Kathmandu was also finalised.

The outcomes were positive but it is yet to see if this too is just another overambitious project limited to the papers only. The Metro report outlined five lines

for the network- four inside the Ring Road and one that would travel along the Ring Road. The 66.1 km network consists of 31 stations in total with the main metro terminal stationed at Jamal.

The construction of the much-awaited Kathmandu-Terai fast track road is also on full swing. The estimated cost of the entire project is around US $1 billion and of the total 76.2km length of the road from Kathmandu to Nijgadh, 40 kms has already been completed. It will then reduce the time to reach Nijgadh from Kathmandu by more than 5 hours. The main purpose of this road is to build a new high class road between Kathmandu to Terai, which easily connects Kathmandu with the Indian border and facilitates the transit trade between India and China. There will be 4 lanes and local traffic, tractors, bicycles and pedestrians will not be allowed in this road. Similarly, toll plazas will be built and tolls will range from Rs.800 for a car to Rs.1800 for a heavy bus/truck. This road will also have lots of tunnels and high bridges. If reports are to be believed, then there will be a total of 90-95 bridges on the stretch and the bridges will directly connect the hills so as to lessen the travelling time.

According to our Department of Roads, the breadth of main highways, ring roads, main roads and sub roads must be 50, 62, 22 and 14 metres respectively. City roads should be divided and have at least two wide traffic lanes in each direction and adequate flyovers in congested places. Curves especially in highways and hilly roads should be engineered for safe negotiation at high speed, while grades should be moderated eliminating blind corners. Strictly following all these regulations does seem like the right mixture of paving the way for world class roads here in Nepal and we hope every bit of it implemented at the immediate effect in the future constructions.

Without a world class system of roads, life in Nepal is definitely different today; road travel is more risky, less comfortable and inefficient. High standards should be adopted for every road system as it is the

best investment that a nation can ever make.

Excellent linkages of expressways and national highways to the inter-city roads not only facilitate transportation but also bring about increment in the standard of living of our citizens. There is a new found freedom of mobility, decentralized development, efficiency, employment opportunities, economic remunerations and tourism boost.

We are glad the change is gradually coming and keeping our fingers crossed for the future of our roads. We hope that the day isn’t very far, when the road to Mustang, Manang, Jumla or Solukhumbu gets listed as one of the best roads to drive in the world!!

REX AD

OWNERS FEEDBACK : TATA NANO autolife

INTERACTIVE

By: Saurav Nepal

“The Tata Nano is more than just a box on four wheels…” a statement that we can roar after our epic drive to the altitudes of Jiri. Now if you had met us a few months back, we would have had a different thing to say regarding the Nano. Until Tata Nepal decided to pack our stuffs and send us ignorant ones at AutoLife on a roadtrip to clear our minds over the weekend.

Indeed, we came back from the challenging drive to Jiri as changed men. We were mighty impressed with driving the Nano up, down and through the mountain roads.

Since then we have only had good things to say about the Nano. Ofcourse, gobbling our own words in the process.

But there was this only one thing that constantly bothered our unconditional love for the Nano and we had to find it out?

Does it still perform with the same caliber even after accumulating some miles under its belt? Is it reliable in the long run? So who better to ask than some of these first buyers of the Nano. We got up close with three owners of the Tata Nano who tells us more on how it has been so far living with the people’s car - The Tata Nano.

I travel a lot with my family and have already covered 5000 kms on the Nano. I make it a point to take my car once or twice a month outside the valley.

Mr. Shailesh Rana 36 Years Proprietor of Green Leaf Restaurant Dhapasi, Kathmandu

I

had made up my mind to buy the Tata Nano way before it was launched in Nepal. The reason I chose the car was that it was perfect for city conditions, offered good styling and an economical mileage, has the fine looks, good enough interiors, ample cabin space, acceptable performance and can be easily zipped through the congested city roads. The other reason was, ever since my days in Europe, small cars always fascinated me. I bought the Nano LX in yellow colour because it strikingly stood out from the other options and only the full-option

variant came in this colour. However, there are certain disadvantages like the small front boot space and it lacks a power steering. As I travel a lot, I am planning to install a luggage carrier on the roof and a good audio-system soon as well.

I travel a lot with my family and have already covered 5000 kms on the Nano. I make it a point to take my car once or twice a month outside the valley. I have taken the Nano to places like Jiri, Charikot, Pokhara, Kakani and Nagarkot. Everyone loves the Nano in my family, especially my 4 year old son who always shouts out ‘NANO NANO’ whenever he spots another Nano on the road. The car is comfortable for a family of four, and the drive quality is excellent in our road conditions with good suspension and easy functioning. My brother also recently bought a Nano and is equally satisfied. Now his friends too desire to get a Nano very soon.

So far, the maintenance costs have been very minimal and I am impressed with the after sales services provided by Sipradi Trading Pvt. Ltd.

Mrs. Apsara Pradhan 38 Years Associate Managing Director at KA Hair Dressing Saloon and Hair Academy Pulchowk, Lalitpur

I

can still recall on how I fell in love with the Tata Nano after seeing it featured in a national daily. Right away I called up Sipradi Trading Pvt. Ltd for more information regarding the car. Having been riding a scooter, I always wanted a car to be able to comfortably take my family around town in any type of weather conditions. So in January this year, I bought the Nano CX variant in silver colour. I chose this colour because I usually favour silver colour when it comes to my personal gadgets 54

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The seating has been very comfortable for the driver as well as the passengers.

As it has a very small turning radius, it is easy to drive around the tight spots in the city. The car is perfect for my family as it offer enough space with generous legroom. and other favourite things. Though my buying decision was hindered by other similarly priced cars in the market, the Nano had already created a lasting impression on me.

At first, I did experience some technical glitches with the ignition of the car. But the technicians at Sipradi quickly fixed the problem and my car is now running fine. So far, I have covered 2500kms on my car. I have also done some minor customizations on the Nano by adding mud flaps, wheel caps, rain visors and some stickers. I am happy with the performance of the car and the A/C too has been very efficient. As it has a very small turning radius, it is easy to drive around the tight spots in the city. The car is perfect for my family as it offers enough space with generous legroom.

It is a flawless combination of performance along with good efficiency and this is what I like the most. Whenever I manage free time, I take my family out on the Nano to Godavari or other nearby places. However, like most owners, even I feel that power steering and rear boot space are still missing. The engine is also a bit loud but acceptable.

launched, I was sure about getting one. I got myself a red coloured Nano as it is my favourite and lucky colour. I am very satisfied with the overall performance of the car and it also returns me a very decent mileage of 24kmpl in the highways and 17kmpl in the city. I have already clocked 9555 kms and the Nano has never let me down with minimal maintenance costs during servicing.

I have driven the Nano to places like Charikot, Pokhara, Chitwan and Melamchi with my family. The seating has been very comfortable for the driver as well as the passengers. I have never felt tiring on long drives.

The cabin space is also good and perfect for my family of four. The car is perfect to drive in the city and I can take this vehicle through any inner city roads without any second thoughts. The road visibility is excellent and the suspensions give good stability and grip on the highways. Overall, the ease of driving the Nano is what impressed me the most.

However, I loathe its hard braking characteristic, no dashboard locking and lack of rear boot. I have also done some visual modifications in my car like black colour bumpers, roof carrier, tint glasses, chrome inserts in the lights, seat covers and plan to put up an AC unit very soon. All in all, I am very much impressed with the service Sipradi Trading Pvt. Ltd has provided.

Mr. Tanka B Khadka 45 Years Dairy Development Corporation (DDC) Banasthali, Kathmandu

I

bought the Tata Nano back in July 2011 and it was my first car. As a family man and an avid traveller, the Nano has always lived up to my expectations with its styling, performance and an excellent economic fuel return. I did a proper research on the internet before the Nano was actually out in Nepal. So by the time it was www.autolife.com.np

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INTERACTIVE

crossword

Powered by

www.qfxcinemas.com

attempt all the crosswords choose the correct answer

win QFX cinemas tickets 2

1 4

3

5

6 7

8 9 10

11 12 13

14

15 16

17

Hints: All the answers are names of automobile manufactures

ACROSS

5. Manufactures the fastest production car 6. Land Rover’s luxury SUV division 7. Has Olympic Rings like logo 8. Known for the Ninja on wheels 10. The infamous military SUV brand 11. Started the Pulsarmania 14. Produces the world’s cheapest car 16. Cobweb dedicated a song to this company 17. Shahrukh Khan endorses this Korean brand

DOWN

1. The Prancing Horse 2. The Undertaker’s ultimate ride 3. Austrian motorcycle brand now in Nepal 4. Oldest motorcycle marquee still in production 9. Bayerische Motoren Werke 12. James Bond’s favourite 13. The exotic Italian motorcycle brand also in Nepal 15. The luxury division of Toyota

Terms & Conditions 1) All crossword responses should reach Autolife Magazine by 20th June 2012.

2) Three lucky winners shall be selected through a random drawing system. Winners will be notified by 25th June 2012 by email.

3) Each winner will receive 2 Gold tickets to QFX Cinemas. Tickets are valid for use at QFX Jai Nepal and QFX Kumari for Weekday (Monday - Thursday) shows only.

4) The tickets cannot be exchanged for cash, credit or any other items and cannot be transferred to other persons.

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June 2012

Last issue’s winners Rojita Shakya Siddhant Pokhrel paranjaya paudel Congratulations!!

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l autolife

GAME review

By: Deep Rana

Gran Turismo 1998

The year, 1999, Instant Classic: Gran Turismo. Few games define the genre they represent and a few games unite racing fans across all platforms. Gran Turismo is one such title worthy of the highest praise. Realistic game play, graphics way ahead of its time and a stellar soundtrack, the likes of which Playstation enthusiasts had never experienced before.

And then there were the race replays. The replays had some of us doing double-takes to make sure we weren’t watching real race footage. If you could get past its slightly intimidating barrier to entry (getting your license to race in this game is trickier than the real thing), you’d have played Gran Turismo for months and months and still not seen it in all its glory.

Picture the most complete racer you could ever imagine, now double it. Gran Turismo is definitely the best racing game ever. Gran Turismo was the reason you bought a Playstation, and it still is.

SBK 2011

SBK 2011 features a brand new artistic direction, an up-to-date driving model to meet the gamers expectations following the most accurate feedback collected so far on the web, as well as a more appealing presentation and side effects, due to an overall enhancement of the whole visual impact (menus, environments, 3D objects, lighting effects and much, much more). A simple side-by-side comparison with SBK X will allow the major improvements to stand out.

The game play is all so very realistic and the behavior is spot on. Online you can play up to 16 players. It’s a must try for all the track racing fans.

Want to share your favoUrite Automotive Game ???

Why wait, send it to us right now at hello@autolife.com.np

l autolife

al cyclist

Words & Rider: Mandil Pradhan

Photo Courtesy: Gaurav Man Sherchan www.gauravman.com

The joy of mountain bike exploration is not just about riding bikes. its about going places where few have dared to go.

T

he Mustang region in the Himalayas of Nepal is a land so beautiful, it has long been the ultimate dream for adventurers all over the world. Here, the sacred peaks of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri - shining with snow all year round, tower over the Kali Gandaki River, forming the deepest valley on the planet.

Along the valley are ancient rhododendron forests, icy rivers, and temperate jungles where tigers still roam.

Cycling in >>>> Mustang Being in an epic place like this makes you realize how small and insignificant we individuals are in comparison to nature.

The region passes through some of the most spectacular scenery in the country, with deep valleys and close up views of mountains over 26,000ft (8,000m) tall, ancient stone settlements, Tibetan culture, and Buddhist temples and monasteries.

Excellent lodges line the main routes of the legendary Annapurna Circuit which has long been recognized one of the most exceptional trekking routes on earth, and now building rapid reputations amongst the world's best

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Shredding trails in the pine forests near Kalopani, with Mt Nilgiri in the background.

mountain bikers. Easily accessible via a short flight from Pokhara or Kathmandu, Jomson, a town along the Annapurna Circuit, is situated between two gigantic mountains in the Kali Gandaki Valley, at the bottom of the world’s deepest gorge.

From Jomsom there are options to go in either direction along the Circuit and the trail to the holy shrine at Muktinath is very popular and follows the ancient trade and pilgrimage route across the Himalayas.

Even a bad day on a mountain bike is way better than a good day in the office.

Our fascination for the unknown and the compulsion to explore the undiscovered had sent through a timeless journey along the virgin cycling trails in this beautiful valley.

Sit back and enjoy the pictures as we take you along on this intrepid journey, in the shadows of the world's highest mountains, through mystic Himalayan villages, on trails that have been trodden upon by locals for centuries.

To watch our short movie clip, check: http://youtu.be/hFavyvnVcVU

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In addition to physical fitness, riding these singletracks require a great amount of technical skills that are harnessed by years of trail riding.

Getting off the beaten path and venture into the unknown, in pursuit of singletrack.

For most mountain bikers, singletracks is synonymous with happiness.

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Crossing the Kali Gandaki River on a small wooden plank near the Thakali village of Tukuche. A lot of people think of Tukuche as a restaurant in Durbarmarg, but it is a beautiful town nestled in the laps of Dhaulagiri.

Riding a mountain bike in the shadows of the world's highest mountains gives off a high that I've found to be unmatched by anything else in the world.

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autolife

cyclist

coverage

Strength in numbers Words: Ankit Shakya

“God has gifted Nepal with terrain that is perfect for mountain biking, while many other countries have to construct it themselves

I

still remember how I pleaded my father to get me a mountain bike for my birthday. He was a little too appehensive about the risky traffic conditions, and for good reasons too.

As of this moment, I have no intention of riding a bicycle on the tarmac. Turns out, the real fun is when you look down a hill and plan to get to the bottom with no intent on using the brakes. Downhill biking is all about high speed descents on downhill terrain.

However, I cannot claim to have experienced downhill racing myself... yet. After attending the premier of the mountain biking film "Strength in Numbers", I definitely plan on giving it a shot.

The movie is produced, written, directed and edited by Anthill Films in co-production with Red Bull Media House and presented by Shimano and Trek in association with Contour HD, Clif Bar, Pinkbike.com and PRO Components.

Additional support for the film was provided by the Whistler Mountain Bike Park, Kona, Toyota Trucks, Scion, Oakley, Easton, Evoc, Big Mountain Adventures, Verbier St. Bernard and Ride Nepal.

Not too surprisingly, with some of the greatest names in cycling like: Andrew Shandro, Brandon Semenuk, Cam McCaul, Danny Macaskill, Gee Atherton, Graham 64

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Aggasiz, Matt Hunter, Rene Wildhaber and Thomas Vanderham gracing the screen, the cycling enthusiasts of Nepal were flocking to Moksh to get their seats. To get the premier's bandwagon rolling, a lot of people and organizations chipped in. The team had to get a permit from the Nepal Tourism Board, transportation was provided by Yeti Travels and various other contributions were provided by Dwarika’s Hotel, Himalayan Rides, Life Cycle, Upperlative Solution, Epic Rides Nepal, Everest Summit Lodges, Chain Inc, Moksh, Revolution @ Moksh, Unique Trails, Ride Nepal and other participants.

According to Rupesh Man Shrestha, managing director of Epic Mountain Bike, this project was of epic proportions; the movie alone required around $60,000 to pull off.

Thankfully we got the sponsors and the event went superbly with almost 200 people attending. All the proceeds will be going to building an exclusive track for Downhill Cross Country Routes in Lakhurebhanjyang, Lalitpur in association with Lalitpur Cycling Sangh. Andrew Shandro and Rene` Wildhaber, sponsered riders from Red Bull were here to shoot a segment for the movie.

Our country is blessed when it comes to natural beauty. From the low flat terrai to the sky high mountains, when it comes to terrains, we have it all. We also have what mountain bikers desire for the most: flowing single track. The small clip in the movie was plenty to show what the geography of Nepal has in store for riders, ranging from lush forest path in the lowlands to narrow foot made paths high up in the mountains.

Mr. Upendra Rana, President of Lalitpur Cycling Sangh, Mr. Nirakar Yaktumba along with Mr. Mads Mathiasen and many other members made this event a success. Apart from the main objective of constructing the route, this event was a medium to let people around the world know about the scope for mountain biking in Nepal.

"God has gifted Nepal with terrain that is perfect for mountain biking, while many other countries have to construct it themselves.

Why not properly exploit what nature has given us and make Nepal known around the world as a destination for mountain bikers?" says Mr. Rupesh Shrestha. www.autolife.com.np

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autolife

coverage

roadtrip

SUPPORTED BY

ON THE BULLET TRAIN TO POKHARA

The 4 th Enfield Rendezvous & Poker run.

Without doubt, the biggest and loudest thunder ride in the Himalayas...

Words: ayush dhaubanjar | photography: niraj karki, Ayush & Ankit

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relax! We still have ages to go before we will actually be able to board a realistic Bullet Train to Pokhara. Forgive me for being a pessimist, but I doubt if that priceless moment will arrive before I breathe my last.

So the closest thing I could have to that surreal feeling was joining the 4th edition of Enfield Poker Run to Pokhara from the 12th14th of April, 2012. The idea was to usher in the 2069 Nepali New Year in Pokhara and I couldn’t have asked for a better way to celebrate than boarding that Bullet Train on the run to Pokhara.

So what is THE ENFIELD POKER RUN? The Enfield Rendezvous & Poker Run is a non-competitive annual motorcycle riding event aimed at bringing together Royal Enfield and other classic vintage motorcycle riders for a ride through the Nepali countryside. No, you don’t actually play cards while riding! Riders will have to pick a card only in each pit stop to make a complete Poker hand at the final destination and the best Poker hand wins an award. In addition to that, there are also other specific awards and the check points offer free food, drinks or lucky spots prizes. Rabi Thapa (CEO of Sacred Summits Pvt. Ltd) in association with an Australian friend Stewart Mclean, had www.autolife.com.np

initiated the event in 2009 in memory of their riding friend late Binod Chhetri, an adventurer and a die-hard fan of the Royal Enfield motorcycles. Over the years, it has gained much popularity and has become a ‘must attend’ event for Enfielders to come together once a year to swap bike riding stories and share the road with fellow locals and international riders. While Christians waits for Christmas, Hindus for Diwali and Muslims for Id, Enfielders here in Nepal now eagerly anticipate their loudest and biggest reunion - The Enfield Poker Run. Giving continuity, Sacred Summits had organized the 4th edition of the event with their slogan - ‘Be a part of the biggest thunder ride ever. Don’t miss it or you will be talked about!’ Well, we sure didn’t want to be talked about but our only problem here was that our team neither owned a Royal Enfield nor a classic bike to be qualified to participate.

Now this is where our main man Rabi Dai from Sacred Summits came in to the rescue. Over a bottle of beer at the pre-ride gathering in Kathmandu Handle Bar, he assured us the keys to a 2007 Royal Enfield Bullet Electra 500cc and as well took care of the registrations fees of Rs.4500 each for my teammate Ankit and me. Whoever quoted that there is nothing like free lunches or rides seriously need to rethink their statement. To our delight, the bike was also handed over to us two days before the event so that we could get used to the change in riding style.

After getting our left foot braking and right foot gearing nearly perfect, we rumbled towards the meeting spot at

Bagaicha Restaurant, Jawlakhel on the day.

We were already behind schedule. But alas, we weren’t the only ones who religiously stuck to the ‘Nepali Time’ philosophy.

Turned out that these guys swore by it and more than half of the team had yet to turn up. Jokes on the classic Royal Enfield’s having problems starting up and some of them having broken down on the way started doing the rounds as we waited for the remaining lot. Soon enough the participants turned up in hordes and the earlier spacious parking lot now seemed devoid of space to contain the total of 67 Royal Enfield motorcycles. There was a diverse selection of motorcycles, from Sherap Dai’s fine condition 1964 Bullet 350 to the new Classic 500’s and from a crazy three wheeled one to a cool American Chopper styled Enfield created by the guys from Vintage Motorcycle Club. A final registration check was done and we were handed over our free Civil Bank sponsored Poker Run T-Shirts, Flags, Stickers, etc along with some towels, badges and wrist bands that were distributed as part of one of the events aim to also promote UNICEF’s global sanitary hand washing campaign. The event co-ordinators Rabi Thapa and Sherap Sherpa then went about with the event orientation, regulations and the important safety briefings. Our heads were well fed with all that insight into the event but our empty stomachs weren’t. Thankfully, a hearty breakfast had been arranged, courtesy of Bagaicha Restaurant. After we had to our stomachs full, the first hand of Poker was drawn and it was time to rumble.

What better way than to set off on a journey the cultural and religious way, with five sweet little girls signifying the auspicious ‘PanchaKanya’, blessing our foreheads with June 2012

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some vermillion and loads of well wishes.

Now here comes the sweeter part.

Normally, a single Royal Enfield is more than capable of completely annihilating the serene atmosphere of a quiet neighbourhood. Imagine what happens when 67 of these motorcycles are fired up together? The weather reports had predicted that it could rain during the day of our ride. But surprisingly the sun was shining in all its might and I believed it had something to do with the racket we were generating. I can’t rule out the possibilities that the Gods of Thunder might have been ashamed to confront us, as it neither showered upon us then nor during the entire three day ride. We were flagged off from the venue escorted by the Tourist Police through the capital till the valley exit point at Nagdhunga. Our sincerest apologies to all late bloomers and snoozers in the capital, for the disturbance we caused as we passed by. The thunder ride was on! As we rode down the windy 20km road towards Naubise, it was a pretty sight with the long line of Enfield’s snaking through the corners like a serpentine.

We then regrouped again at a highway restaurant a few kilometres further ahead of Naubise to pick up our second hand of the Poker cards. Unfortunately, one of the participants had a small plunge down the roadside drain and had already made himself a strong contender for the Hard Luck Award. After some snacking and refreshments by the roadside, we thundered back on the highway. Since we needed to click some pictures along the way, we moved ahead of the pack overtaking the road captain Pramod ‘Goofy’ Shrestha from Himalayan Enfielders, to save time and make sure that we weren’t left behind.

Goofy Dai played the perfect captain maintaining the right speed for the pack and safely signalling oncoming vehicles of the Bullet Train behind. Malekhu came by soon and we stopped by for some of the local delicacies of fried fish snacks while waiting for the group to arrive. Then we joined the pack again, making our way towards Mugling where our Yeti Airlines sponsored lunch and the third Poker Hand was awaiting us.

The monotony that was beginning to set in due to the rising temperatures was suddenly shattered along the way to 68

June 2012

I can’t rule out the possibilities that the Gods of Thunder might have been ashamed to confront us, as it neither showered upon us then, nor during the entire three day ride.

Mugling where we had a scary puncture along a straight road while cruising at a good 70km/hr. Thank god we weren’t doing high speed runs and it didn’t happen while taking a corner or with a vehicle behind or ahead. Fortunately, Ankit steadily and skilfully managed www.autolife.com.np

to bring the bike to a standstill after some dangerous wobbling a few metres down the road. Otherwise the page here would have been probably replaced by an obituary from the editor for the two of us. We had the puncture repaired at a nearby garage as some of the team thoughtfully waited for us sharing stories from earlier rides. We then moved towards Mugling and washed up to enjoy a heavy lunch at Rupsi Restaurant in true Nepali style.

We hit the road again, only to stop at Akala Highway Restaurant which lies in Manapang at a distance of 35km before Pokhara. After a brief break and regrouping, we continued in tandem towards Pokhara. All eyes were on us as we thundered towards the Lakeside District, in a disciplined two line formation ride. While some mistook us to be a part of a film shooting crew, some even went to the extent of assuming that we were rallying and lobbying for a political cause. People even flashed out their www.autolife.com.np

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The rest of the day was free to chill out in Pokhara and enjoy its serene beauty. With its crystal clear lakes and the unique Fishtail Mountain, Pokhara is indeed a paradise.

mobile phone to record our grand entry into the Lake City and I guess some of it must already be gathering views in YouTube. The thrilling Poker Run finally ended upon our arrival at The Landmark Hotel at around 6pm. We were allotted our rooms and given some time for refreshing ourselves for the gala celebration in the evening. The final Poker Hand was dealt and Prem Maharjan won the coveted ‘Best Poker Hand’ and was gifted a well packaged two-night stay at Temple Tiger Jungle Lodge for a couple.

56 other gift vouchers from various sponsors were also handed to the lucky participants. Sadly we didn’t have any prizes to our names, but merrily drank the night away with all that free chilled beer courtesy of Nepal Ice. It was of course a great hit like the previous years as some of them chanted praises in slurred accent- ‘Nepal Ice – Verry Verrry Nice!’ The celebrations continued with live music performed by ‘Boys from Pokhara’ and later in the night by our very own talented Enfielders. The evening was spent enjoying the lavish BBQ, snacks and dinner, dancing and singing to the band until the countdown to usher in the Nepali New Year 2069 BS in true adventure style. We then finally called it a night.

Now motorcyclists are usually perceived as a hooligan lot, but the organizers had made sure that too was sorted out right. The Enfield Rendezvous & Poker Run always supports a local charity during their ride, thus adding meaning to the ride.

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we headed towards the Amar Jyoti School in Lekhnath. It was a short ride through

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an amazing section of well laid winding roads. En route we also stopped by the beautifully constructed Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge for some complimentary refreshments. At the school, a warm welcome had been arranged with traditional folk instruments playing on loop and the happy students and villagers welcoming us into the premises. Books and stationeries were handed over to the school principal to be distributed to the school children courtesy of Millennium Publications in Lalitpur. In addition some kits promoting UNICEF’s global sanitary hand washing initiative were handed over to the children and the hygienic hand washing technique was also creatively demonstrated to the children by Sherap Dai. All present beamed with pride and happiness on having done something worthwhile. We bid farewell to the children and returned to Pokhara.

The rest of the day was free to chill out in Pokhara and enjoy its serene beauty. With its crystal clear lakes and the unique Fishtail Mountain, Pokhara is indeed a paradise. Pokhara was abuzz with the Poker Run participants as they were engaged in a number of outdoor activities such as cycling, sightseeing, boating and paragliding at the heavily discounted rates provided courtesy of the AVIA Club Nepal. Many were also patronizing the numerous restaurants and bars in the town for Pork BBQ, Thakali meals, Beers, etc. During the evening we all gathered at the Bullet Base Camp and turned out that another Poker Run was going around here. Every single purchase at the bar entitled us to one card. So there we went about again in our quest of lady luck. Of course, getting heavily drunk in the process. As the game closed for the night, it turned out we were the winners with our four of a kind hand. The prize was the bar speciality: a full chilli Vodka; sharing the rapid swigs of which had us tipsily finding our way back to the hotel at nearly 3am in the morning in such a line that our mothers wouldn’t have been really proud of.

The next morning we woke up pretty late to massive hangovers reminding us of the good time we had last night. It was time to return home. We went for a final visit to Bullet Base Camp where I had left www.autolife.com.np

my power glasses the last night and after breakfast, bid the owners Nathan Ford and Ginette Vegter adieu. We got back on the road to finally rejoin the Bullet Train that had already left us lazy bums, down at Akala Highway Restaurant. Then finally over lunch at Mugling the final prize distributions were done. Through a open voting competition, Chhedup Bomzon bagged the ‘Best Enfield Award’ for the true to originality modification on his 1991 Bullet STD 350 and was gifted a trophy and two-night stay for couple at the Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge with all meals. Vintage Motorcycle Club won the ‘Most Creative Design’ for their amazing three wheeled Enfield and got one night stay for a couple at the Fish Tail Lodge in Pokhara along with a 6 course complimentary dinner for two at the Krishnarpan Restaurant, Dwarika’s Hotel.

Bhawesh Jha took the ‘Hard Luck Award’ trophy and was given Rs.3500 cash prize as a financial assistance for repairs. Siru Riviera was awarded the ‘Most Supportive Female Rider’ and rewarded with a two-night stay for couple at the Tigerland Safari Resort, Chitwan.

With plenty of laughter from the many jokes by the participants, we set out for Naubise to beat the oncoming traffic all the way up to Kalanki. Unfortunately, our bike ran out of fuel a few kilometres from Naubise and we signalled the riders to continue as we expected fuel to be available just a few kilometres downhill.

But it looked like we had used up all our

www.autolife.com.np

luck the previous night at the bar and we didn’t find fuel until the next 30kms or so. Of course, we would have never reached the fuel station if one of the friendly Italian expat participant and the last in the convoy had not provided us with nearly a litre of fuel. The evening drew on as we ascended towards Kathmandu. Some of the participants had regrouped at the Kathmandu Handle Bar and our late arrival was greeted with cheers from the riders and we had even earned a nickname – Petrol Boy. It was the end of a fantastic adventure and after a few round of drinks and collecting the complimentary engine oil from BP Lubricants, all of us headed home exhausted from the long ride.

This year’s event included as many as 97 participants on 67 Enfields, with travelling tourists, expats and riding enthusiasts from as much as eight different countries - Nepal, India, Australia,

Germany, Holland, Spain, UK and USA. It was a ball to cruise alongside most of these still young at heart veteran tourers, who have been riding to various nook and corners of the country even before I learnt to spell motorcycles.

In fact, some of them inspite of their age, still frequently ride all the way to exotic places like Ladakh, Bhutan and Tibet. Though we did not win anything during the run, apart from the Chilli Vodka, the bike had a souvenir for me in the form of some generous amount of engine oil splattered on my denim’s bottom half. The classic Royal Enfields are a notorious lot that goes about leaking some oil along the way like a hippopotamus who goes about flinging their poop to mark their territory and our 2007 Bullet Electra was no less.

Now a thing like that really makes this experience hard to forget, when the jeans at stake is actually your favourite pair!

June 2012

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autolife

Phone Apps

Drive Carefully Cost>>Free >>Platform>>Android So you’re driving along the motorway at 80 km per hour and you get a text message. Do you pick up your phone, read the message and risk an early grave? Do you pull over and waste valuable driving time so you can read an inane joke from someone you’re avoiding? Or do you have your messages read aloud to you? The answer is a no-brainer, but in case you’re wondering, we’d recommend the latter. This app monitors your incoming texts and emails and reads them out so you don’t have to take your eyes or hands off the wheel. It doesn’t allow you to respond to the sender verbally, but it can automatically reply with a pre-written message to let them know you’ve received their text or email.

My Cars Cost>>Free >>Platform>>Android My cars helps you to track/control your car’s/bikes expenses and check the fuel efficiency.

Here is the list of functionalities Full fuel management (costs, efficiency) Maintenance records Bills/expenses Charts (exportable as png files) Support of Bi-fuel cars (LPG/CNG) Reminders Support of Dual-fuel cars (E85,) Customizations options Widget for quick refuel Statistics/charts Widget to launch the app with other Export/import in csv/xml. icons (other car, bike icons). Can be Automatic backup of data on SD card + used for instance to use your own Google online backup bike icon to launch My Cars

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TO SUBSCRIBE Call +977-1-4415746

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l autolife

garage

CAR DIY

TIPS FOR A SPOTLESS EXTERIOR STEP 1

Never wash your vehicle immediately after a long drive.

It’s best to wash in a shaded area and make sure your vehicles surface is cool. If your car is hot, the soap suds will dry too quickly and stain the surface, requiring another wash.

STEP 2

Pre-soak your vehicle properly to remove every heavy dirt components on the surface as well as under the body.

STEP 3

Use two buckets. Fill one with water only and the other with a combination of water and a mild liquid soap or best a good car washing shampoo. Get hold of a soft car-washing cloth or sponge and get started. Always dip your cloth or sponge in the bucket with water only, before putting it back in the soapy bucket to re-soap.

This way you will start with a bucket of clean soap and end with a bucket of clean soap.

STEP 4

Wash one section at a time, and then rinse it off so that it doesn’t dry up. Start with the roof of the car and then proceed to the hood and the rear. Next, clean the upper sections of the sides and finally the lower areas, which invariably have the most dirt. If you clean the lower sections first, you’ll wash the dirt from the top of the car back down onto the lower parts. More importantly when you start from bottom, you run the risk of having small pieces of debris stuck to your sponge, and could scratch the vehicle. Rinse your vehicle thoroughly.

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STEP 5

Use a different cloth and a soft brush to clean the rims, tires and wheel arches. Using a separate cloth here will reduce the chance that you’ll scratch the car’s paint with brake dust and dirt you pick up from the rims and tires. Be very cautious when cleaning wheels, especially if the car has just been driven in. Wheels can be extremely hot especially if it uses high-performance brakes.

STEP 6

Then make sure that you have properly washed off the soap from every component and rinsed the car with water properly. Then park your vehicle in a sunny and clean area.

Immediately dry your vehicle with a clean water absorbing cloth to prevent water spots. Keep squeezing the cloth in the process to remove excess water.

STEP 7

After the car has dried and is spotless, get hold of a good exterior car wax which protects the surface of the vehicle and provides great gloss and protection. Apply it generously in a circular pattern all over the metal body parts. Make sure that you do not miss out any spots.

STEP 8

Get hold of a dry cotton cloth and thoroughly rub over the wax. Your car should now be shining like it just rolled out of the showroom and you are good to roll out of your house as a proud owner of your sparkling vehicle.

PS: For a thorough underbody and engine bay wash, you

will though have to approach a professional car washing centre like AutoSpa, that have pressurized water hose to remove all that dried up debris.

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l autolife

garage

BIKE DIY

TUBELESS TYRE PUNCTURE REPAIR

Imagine yourself, riding down an open highway on a roadtrip, no sign of civilization and the cool wind blowing in your face. Suddenly you are brought to a sudden halt with a flat tyre. Now, imagine the joy if your bike came with tubeless tyres and you had a full puncture repair kit at hand. So unless you don’t have a tubeless tyre, here is how you do it: WHAT YOU NEED

(1) A full Puncture Repair Kit (Includes the Tool 1, Tool 2, cold mending rubber strips and a cutter blade as shown in the picture) (2) Pliers (3) A portable Air Pump

STEP 1

Park your motorcycle on its centre stand in a flat surface.

Locate the nail (or other material) that caused the puncture in your tyre. Then rotate the tyre to a position from where you can have a comfortable access to the nail. Put the bike in gear if it’s the rear tyre, so that it doesn’t rotate during the procedure. Use the Pliers to pull out the nail.

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STEP 2

Take out a strip of the cold mending rubber and pass it through the eye of Tool 2 so that there is equal length of the rubber on either side of the tool. Put it aside.

STEP 3

Drill Tool 1 through the hole created by the nail. Here, you must follow the path of the hole created by the nail. Insert about 2/3rd of the tail through the tire.

STEP 4

Pull out Tool 1. Now take Tool 2 with the rubber strip fitted in it and insert it into the hole. Here again you have to follow the path made by Tool 1 and pierce about 2/3rd of it through the tire.

STEP 5

Now wrap the rubber strip around the tool and press the strip on the either sides of Tool 2 against the tyre with your fingers. Pull out the tool. Then cut the remaining of the rubber strip protruding outside the tyre, leaving behind about 5mm of strip from the surface of the tyre.

STEP 6

Inflate the tyre to the recommended pressure and check for any leakage of air from the repaired portion by wiping the area with a cloth dipped in water. If all is well, then you’re ready to roll back on the highway again.

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TECHNICAL

Sunroof

Bluetooth

Fog Lamps

Leather Seats

Steering Adjust

Climate Control

Remote Locking

ABS

Airbags

Top Speed (KMPH)

Torque (NM)

Power (BHP)

Gearbox

Cubic Capacity (CC)

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Price (NRs)

NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE

Updated May 2012

EXTRA FEATURES AND SAFETY Bama Motors Pvt. Ltd, Thapathali, KTM Tel: 4226655 | 4223022

Chery Models A1 1.3L

17,99,000 1297 5M 82 114 155 N Y N N Y N Y N N

QQ3 Full Option

15,45,000

Tiggo 2.0 A/T

34,00,000 1971 A 123 168 160 Y Y Y N Y N Y N Y

812

5M

67

90

130

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

Vijay Motors Pvt. Ltd, Naxal, KTM Tel: 4414158

chevrolet Models Optra 1.6 LT

32,50,000 1991 5M 119 314 190 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Aveo 1.4 LT W/O ABS

28,80,000

Beat 1.2 LT

23,50,000 1199 5M 80 108 150 Y Y Y N Y N Y N N

Spark 1.0 LT

19,50,000

Captiva 2.0 Automatic LTZ

65,00,000 1991 5A 148 320 175 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Aveo UVA1.2 LT

24,70,000

Cruze 2.0 LTZ VCDI

61,90,000 1991 5A 148 327 200 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y

Tavera LT L8 8 SEATER

38,20,000

1399

995

1150

2499

5M

5M

5M

5M

92

63

75

78

127

90

110

186

165

145

160

125

Y

Y

Y

N

N

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

N

N

N

Y

Y

-

Y

Y

N

N

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

N

N

N

Hansraj Hulaschand & Co Pvt. Ltd, Maitighar Tel: 4239641 | 4231985

Daihatsu Models Terios Super DLX

53,00,000 1495 5M 103 140 NA Y N Y N Y N Y N N BATAS Brothers Pvt. Ltd, Gairidhara Tel: 4004644 | 4004645

fIAT Models Linea 1.4 Emotion

36,62,000 1368 5M 90 115 168 N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Punto 1.2 Emotion

27,33,000 1172 5M 67 96 175 N Y Y Y Y Y Y N N Go Automobiles Pvt. Ltd, Thapathali, KTM Tel: 4244254 | 4257001

FORD Models Everest 3.0 A/T

68,00,000 2953 5A 153 380 165 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Fiesta 1.5 Petrol Titanium

38,99,000 1499 5M 107 140 NA Y Y Y Y Y N Y Y N

Fiesta Classic Sxi Petrol

30,50,000 1596 5M 99 146 175 Y Y Y Y Y N Y N N

Figo Diesel Titanium

26,99,000

1399

5M

68

160

150

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

Ranger 2.5 CRAV

38,50,000

2499

5M

81

266

NA

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

GREAT WALL

Himchuli Auto International, Kupundole Tel: 5521730

Models

80

Florid 1.5L VVT

19,95,000 1497 5M 103 138 160 Y Y Y N Y N Y N N

Wingle 5 2.5TCI SLX

27,50,000 2499 5M 107 300 140 Y N Y N Y Y Y N N

Hover SLX

36,90,000 2400 5M 135 200 N/A Y Y Y N Y N Y N Y

June 2012

www.autolife.com.np

Sunroof

Bluetooth

Fog Lamps

Leather Seats

Steering Adjust

Climate Control

Remote Locking

ABS

Airbags

Top Speed (KMPH)

Torque (NM)

Power (BHP)

Gearbox

Cubic Capacity (CC)

TECHNICAL

EXTRA FEATURES AND SAFETY Syakar Company, Kantipath Tel: 5549741 | 2383223

HONDA Models

NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Price (NRs)

Updated May 2012

Accord 2.4 MT

78,50,000 2354 5M 180 222 225 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

City SMT

38,50,000 1497 5M 118 146 175 Y Y Y N Y N Y N N

Civic 1.8 SMT

58,00,000

CR-V RVI

76,00,000 1997 6M 167 218 180 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Jazz Select

32,50,000 1198 5M 89 110 175 Y Y Y Y Y N Y N Y

Brio VMT

26,69,000 1198 5M 88 109 N/A Y Y Y N Y N Y N N

1799

5M

130

172

205

Y

Y

HUMMER

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

N

Saakha and Universal Automobiles, Tinkune

Models H3

NA

3699 5M 242 328 NA Y Y Y N Y Y Y N Y Laxmi Intercontinental, Thapathali Tel: 4101556 | 4101557

HYUNDAI Models Accent GL

29,96,000 1399 5M 94 124 170 N N N N Y N Y N N

i10 Magna

19,96,000 1086 5M 66 99 140 N N Y N N N Y N N

i20 Asta 1.4D

28,95,000 1396 6A 90 220 160 Y Y Y Y Y N Y N Y

Santa Fe GLS

76,96,000 2199 6M 194 420 210 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y

Santro GL+

17,96,000 1086 5M 62 96 NA N N N N Y N Y N N

Sonata GLS

56,96,000 1998 6M 165 198 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Tucson GLS

63,96,000 1995 6M 177 382 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Elantra GLS

42,96,000 1591 6M 130 157 NA Y Y Y Y Y N Y N N

Eon Sportz

18,56,000 814 5M 56 NA NA Y N Y N N N Y N N

Choice Motors, Lazimpat Tel: 4441080 | 4441081

JONWAY Models UFO

28,25,000 1584 5M 100 135 150 Y Y Y N Y N Y N Y Continental Associates Pvt. Ltd, Tinkune Tel: 2054003 | 2054004

KIA Models Cerato 1.6L

38,50,000 1591 5M 123 156 NA Y Y Y N Y Y Y N N

Pradeep Jain, M: 9849632938 Kuleshwor, Kathmandu,Tel: 01-4279496

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June 2012

81

Sunroof

Fog Lamps

Leather Seats

Steering Adjust

Climate Control

Bluetooth

TECHNICAL

Remote Locking

ABS

Airbags

Top Speed (KMPH)

Torque (NM)

Power (BHP)

Gearbox

Cubic Capacity (CC)

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Price (NRs)

NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE

Updated May 2012

N

N

EXTRA FEATURES AND SAFETY Continental Associates Pvt. Ltd, Tinkune Tel: 2054003 | 2054004

KIA Models Picanto 1.2 EX

22,50,000

1086

5M

64

97

NA

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Rio Notchback

26,50,000 1399 5M 94 125 NA Y N Y N Y Y N N N

Sorento 2.2L Diesel

72,50,000 2199 6M 197 421 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y

Soul 1.6L

39,00,000 1591 5M 124 156 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Sportage 2.0 EX Diesel M/T

58,50,000 1998 6M 177 392 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y Agni Incorporated Pvt. Ltd, Uttar Dhoka Tel: 4414626 | 4414628

MAHINDRA Models Bolero LX MDi 4WD

27,95,000

2523

5M

63

180

NA

N

N

N

N

Y

N

N

N

N

Scorpio VLX 4WD

51,50,000

2179

5M

120

290

150

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

N

XYLO E8

40,15,000

2498 5M 112 240 135 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y

Thar

29,60,000

2498 5M 112 235 140 N N N N N N N N N CG Automobiles, Jhamsikhel Tel: 5547165 | 5547166

MARUTI SUZUKI Models Alto Lxi

14,09,505

796 5M 46 62 140 N N N Y Y N N N N

Alto K10 Vxi

16,89,350

796

A-Star Zxi

21,18,750

998 5M 67 90 160 Y Y Y N Y N Y N N

Eeco STD 7Seater

17,19,010

Grand Vitara MT

70,00,000 1995 5M 164 225 175 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y

Ritz VXI

22,28,360 1248 5M 75 190 NA N Y Y N Y Y Y N N

Swift VDi

25,97,870 1248 5M 75 190 160 N Y Y N Y Y Y N N

Swift Dzire ZDi

30,49,870 1248 5M 75 190 160 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

SX4 Zxi

33,19,940 1586 5M 102 145 175 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Wagon R Vxi

19,21,000 1061 5M 64 84 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N

Zen Estilo Vxi

18,95,010

998 5M 64 84 150 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

800 Std

10,67,850

796 4M 37 59 NA N N N N Y N N N N

1196

5M

5M

67

73

90

101

145

NA

N

N

N

N

N

N

N

N

N

N

Y

Y

Y

N

N

N

Kuleshwor, Global Bank Building Kathmandu, Nepal Phone : 00977-1-4289051 82

June 2012

www.autolife.com.np

N

N

www.autolife.com.np

June 2012

83

TECHNICAL

Sunroof

Bluetooth

Fog Lamps

Leather Seats

Steering Adjust

Climate Control

Remote Locking

ABS

Airbags

Top Speed (KMPH)

Torque (NM)

Power (BHP)

Gearbox

Cubic Capacity (CC)

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Price (NRs)

NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE

Updated May 2012

EXTRA FEATURES AND SAFETY Padma Shree Pvt. Ltd, Gyaneshwor Tel: 4435688 | 4435631

Mazda Models

B T - 5 0 H i g h g r a d e 51,75,000 2499 5M 140 330 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Mazda 3 SGrade

N/A

1598 5M 103 145 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

M a z d a 2 V G r a d e 46,00,000 1498 5M 102 135 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N

Mazda 6 V+

78,00,000 2489 6M 170 226 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

CX-7

82,00,000 2488 5M 161 218 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Leon Motors Pvt. Ltd, Shantinagar Tel: 4622074 | 4622485

MITSUBISHI Models ASX 4WD GLX

79,00,000 1998 6CVT 150 197 190 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Lancer EX GLX

66,00,000 1998 6CVT 150 197 200 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

L200 Sportero 4WD 48,00,000 2477 NA 135 NA 175 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Double Cab L300 Minibus L

38,00,000

2477 5M 75 150 120 N Y NA NA NA NA NA NA NA

Outlander

84,00,000

2360 6CVT 170 226 190 NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA

Pajero GLS 3.0 V6

Pajero Sport GLX

1,30,00,000

2972 5M 185 267 175 Y NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA

85,00,000 2477 5M 175 400 N/A Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Dugar Automobiles Pvt. Ltd, Balaju Tel: 4362992 | 4350912

NISSAN Models Navara LE

NA

2488 6M 175 403 170 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Sunny 1.6EX

NA

1597 5M 110 148 NA Y Y Y N Y Y Y N N

Tiida Sedan M

NA

1598

X-Trail LE

NA

1995 6A 150 320 185 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

5M

110

153

170

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Nemlink Int’l Traders Pvt. Ltd, Panipokhari Tel: 4006528 | 4410323

PERODUA Models MYVI SX

24,95,000 1298 5M 86 116 NA N N Y N Y N Y N N

Viva 850

17,95,000

847 5M 53 76 NA Y N N N Y N Y N N Constant Business Group Pvt. Ltd, Naxal Tel: 2297455

PROTON Models Savvy

20,75,000 1149 5M 74 NA NA N N Y N N N Y N N

Persona 1.6

30,75,000 1597 5M 110 148 NA Y Y Y N Y Y Y N N

Gen 2 - 1.6

30,50,000

SKODA

1597

5M

125

150

NA

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

N

N

Skoda M.A.W, Thapathali Tel: 4216835 | 4268788

Models

84

Laura 1.8 TSI

53,49,000 1798 7A 118 250 225 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y

Yeti 2.0 TDi

59,90,000 1968 6M 140 320 210 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

June 2012

www.autolife.com.np

www.autolife.com.np

June 2012

85

TECHNICAL

Sunroof

Bluetooth

Fog Lamps

Leather Seats

Steering Adjust

Climate Control

Remote Locking

ABS

Airbags

Top Speed (KMPH)

Torque (NM)

Power (BHP)

Gearbox

Cubic Capacity (CC)

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Price (NRs)

NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE

Updated May 2012

EXTRA FEATURES AND SAFETY Skoda M.A.W, Thapathali Tel: 4216835 | 4268788

SKODA

Models Superb 2.0 TDi

71,90,000 1968 6A 140 320 206 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Fabia Elegance

26,95,000

1200 5M 75 110 NA Y Y Y N Y N N N N Constant Business Group Pvt. Ltd, Naxal Tel: 2297455

SSANGYONG Models Korando Active AWD

50,75,000 1998 5M 175 360 180 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y

Rexton

59,75,000 2696 5M 160 340 180 Y Y Y N Y Y Y N Y

Actyon Sports

34,75,000 1998 5M 140 310 NA Y Y Y N Y Y Y N Y Vijay Motors Pvt. Ltd, Naxal, KTM Tel: 4414158

Subaru Models Forester

90,00,000 2498 5M 230 320 NA Y Y Y Y Y N Y N N Sipradi Trading Pvt Ltd, Teku Tel: 4250610 | 4250612

TATA Models Aria Prestige

53,85,000 2179 5M 138 320 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y

Indica V2 Xeta GLS

15,95,000 1193 5M 64 100 145 N N N N N N N N N

Indica Vista Quadrajet ZX

26,95,000 1248 5M 75 190 160 Y Y Y N Y N Y Y N

Indigo CS LX TDI

23,95,000

1396

Indigo Manza Quadrajet Elan

31,45,000

1248 5M 90 200 NA Y Y Y N Y N Y Y N

Nano LX

11,88,000

624 4M 35 48 105 N N N N N N Y N N

Safari Dicor VX 4WD

46,95,000

2179

5M

138

320

NA

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

N

N

Sumo Grande MK II

34,85,000

2179

5M

120

250

140

N

N

N

N

Y

N

Y

N

N

Sumo Gold

28,90,000

2956 5M 70 223 175 N N N N Y N Y N N

Xenon XT 4WD

30,30,000

2183 5M 138 320 160 N N N N Y N Y N N

5M

69

135

165

N

N

N

N

N

N

Y

N

N

United Traders Syndicate, Sinamangal Tel: 4478301-5

TOYOTA Models Avanza

39,95,000

1298 5M 90 120 150 Y Y Y N Y Y Y N N

Corolla

76,70,000

1598 5M 104 145 170 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N N

Fortuner

89,90,000

2928 5M 160 343 170 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y

Land Cruiser Prado 1,54,60,000 2982 5M 129 343 170 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y Dual AC Land Cruiser GX

21,906,000 4461 5M 214 430 190 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y

Rav 4 Auto

97,95,000

2362 5M/4A 167 224 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y

NA

1298 5M 86 120 NA Y Y Y N Y Y Y N N

54,50,000

1298 5M 86 120 NA Y Y Y N Y Y Y N N

Yaris Hatchback

Yaris Sedan

86

June 2012

www.autolife.com.np

Sunroof

Bluetooth

Fog Lamps

Leather Seats

Steering Adjust

Climate Control

Remote Locking

ABS

Airbags

Top Speed (KMPH)

Torque (NM)

Power (BHP)

Gearbox

Price (NRs)

TECHNICAL

Updated May 2012

EXTRA FEATURES AND SAFETY Pooja International Pvt. Ltd, Panipokhari Tel: 4006605 | 4006606

VOLKSWAGEN Models

NEW CAR BUYER’S GUIDE

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Cubic Capacity (CC)

Updated April 2012

Passat CC

82,50,000 1798 6A 158 250 223 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Golf

44,50,000

Passat A/T

66,25,000 1798 6A 158 250 220 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Polo 1.6 Highline

28,45,000

1595 5M 103 148 120 Y Y Y Y Y N Y N N

1598 5M 103 153 185 Y Y Y N Y N Y N N

Tiguan TDI Diesel A/T 81,25,000 1964 6A 138 320 NA Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y (Full Option) Touareg 3.0D A/T (Full Option) Vento 1.6 Highline

1,22,00,000 2967 8A 241 550 220 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

36,95,000

1598 5M 103 153 185 Y Y Y Y Y N Y N N

Constant Business Group Pvt. Ltd, Naxal Tel: 2297455

ZOTYE Models Zotye Nomad II 1.5L 24,75,000

1500 5M 105 135 145 N Y N N N N Y N N

Anna Lifan

Mileage (kmpl)

Fuel Tank (Litre)

Dry Weight (KG)

Ground Clearance (MM)

Wheelbase (MM)

Height (MM)

Length (MM)

Top Speed (KMPH)

Gears

Torque (NM)

Power (BHP)

Cubic Capacity (CC)

Annapurna Lifan Company Pvt. Ltd Teku, Tel: 4241521

Models

COOL BOY

DUE

N/A

1,55,900 149.4 13.5/8500 8.5/7500 5 95 N/A 830 1680 250 120 10.5 50 99,900

97 5.5/7500 6.6/5000 4 N/A N/A 750 1208 140 95

4 70

Royal

1,09,900 97.2 6/8000 6/6000 4 80 N/A 760 1320 160 110KG 12 70

Desire

1,06,900 107 6.6/8500 7.5/5000 4 N/A N/A 750 1255 140 90 4.5 65

apollo

Universal Super Impex Jyatha Tole, Tel: 4227337 Models Orion RX 250T

3,16,000 249.4 17.5/7500 18/5500 5 105 N/A 930 1420 280 118 8 35

Orion RX 250M

3,16,000 249.4 17.5/7500 18/5500 5 105 N/A 880 1420 280 118 8 35

NEW BIKE BUYER’S GUIDE

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Price (NRS)

Updated May 2012

Fuel Tank (Litre)

Mileage (kmpl)

Ground Clearance (MM)

Wheelbase (MM)

Dry Weight (KG)

Bajaj

Height (MM)

Length (MM)

Top Speed (KMPH)

Gears

Torque (NM)

Power (BHP)

Cubic Capacity (CC)

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Price (NRS)

NEW BIKE BUYER’S GUIDE

Updated May 2012

140

14

35

Hansraj Hulaschand & Co. Ltd Teku, Tel: 4220094 | 4261200 Models

Avenger

2,43,900

219.89 19/8400 17.5/7000 5

120 N/A 710 1475

169

Discover 100 DTS-Si

1,42,900 94.38 7.5/7500 7.85/5000 5 90 N/A 800 1305 165 108 8

Discover 125 DTS-Si

1,60,900 (Disk) 124.6 11/8000 10.8/5500 5 N/A N/A 800 1305 165

110

8

Discover 150 DTS-Si

1,69,900

144.8

13/7500

12.75/5500

5

110

N/A

800

1305

115

8

65

Platina 100

1,19,900

99.27

8/7500

8/5500

4

90

N/A

805

1275

160

100

13

75

Platina 1,38,900 125 DTS-Si

124.58

9.5/7000

11/5000

4

100

N/A

785

1275

160

100

13

65

BOXER 150

1,39,900

144.8

12/7500

12/5000

4

100

N/A

803

1285

N/A

122

11

60

Pulsar 150 DTSi

2,06,900

149.01

15.06/9000

12.5/6500

5

115

N/A

785

1320

160

120

15

55

Pulsar 180 DTSi

2,23,900

178.60

17/8500

14/6000

5

120

N/A

785

1345

165

130

15

50

Pulsar 220F DTS-I

2,47,900

220

21/8500

19/7000

5

135

N/A

795

1350

165

140

15

45

Pulsar 220S DTS-I

2,34,900

220

21/8500

19/7000

5

135

N/A

795

1350

165

140

15

45

DAELIM

165

80 N/A

AKU Nepal Enterprises Kalimati, Tel: 4288339 | 4286018 Models Roadwin 150R

2,88,500

150 15/10600 12.5/8400 5

5,00,000

249 23/9000 19/8000 5 140 N/A 780 1380 150 160

Roadwin R250 FI

120 N/A 780 1380

Demak

150

135

15

N/A

15 N/A

Agni Incorporated Pvt. Ltd Uttar Dhoka, Tel: 4420964 Models Cougar 250

3,95,000

249 19/7500 N/A 5 N/A N/A 760 1480 140 140 14 40

2,38,000

150 13/8500 10/7500 5 N/A N/A 840 1380 270 120 8.5 50

DMX-R

DUCATI

Turbo Motors Trading Naxal,Tel: 4435720 Models Hypermotard 796

18,50,000

803 81/8000 74/6250 6 200 N/A 825 1455 N/A 155 12.5 N/A

Monster 696

16,80,000

696 80/9000 69/7750 6 N/A N/A 770 1450 N/A 160

15

N/A

Monster 796

18,50,000

803 87/8250 79/6250 6 220 N/A 800 1450 N/A 167

15

N/A

848 EVO

N/A

849.4 140/10500 98/9750 6 N/A N/A 830 1430 N/A

168

15.5 N/A

1198

N/A

1198.4 170/9750 131/8000 6 N/A N/A 820 1430 N/A

171

15.5 N/A

Multistrada 1200 S

N/A

1198.4

150 / 9250

118 / 7500

6

N/A

N/A

850

1530

N/A

192

20

N/A

SportsClassic GT1000

N/A

992

92 / 8000

90 / 6000

6

N/A

N/A

810

1425

N/A

185

15

N/A

GLOBAL

GLOBAL

Jai Shambu Automotives Pvt. Ltd Ravi Bhawan, Tel: 4289933 | 4277049

Models

88

G-100

1,21,000

97

7.2/8000

6.5/6000

4

N/A

N/A

N/A

1280

150

100

10

N/A

UFO 150

1,56,500

149.6

8.5/7500

9.2/6000

Auto

80

N/A

N/A

1275

135

100

5

N/A

Xpression+

1,48,994

124

10.5/8500

8.4/7500

5

N/A

N/A

N/A

1280

140

100

15

N/A

June 2012

www.autolife.com.np

Dry Weight (KG)

Fuel Tank (Litre)

Ground Clearance (MM)

Wheelbase (MM)

103

N/A

860

1375

280

115

12

45

VR 200H

3,49,000

197

19/7500

15/6000

5

105

N/A

860

1375

290

130

12

30

Hartford

Height (MM)

5

Length (MM)

12.5/7500

Gears

13.5/8500

Torque (NM)

149

Power (BHP)

2,99,000

Cubic Capacity (CC)

VR 150H

Price (NRS)

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

International Motor Pvt. Ltd Teku, Tel: 4265336 | 4265337

Models

Hero

Syakar Company Ltd Kantipath, Tel: 4225377 Models

CBZ X-TREME 2,03,900 (DD) 149.2 14.2/8500 12.8/6500 5 110 N/A 800 1325 145 135 15 60.25

CD Deluxe

97.2

7.2/8000

7.5/5000

4

95

N/A

790

1230

165

100

10.5

72

Glamour 1,70,900(DSS FI)

124.8

9/7000

10.35/4000

4

95

N/A

775

1265

150

115

15

72

Hunk 2,01,900(DD)

149.2

14.2/8500

12.8/6500

5

110

N/A

795

1325

145

135

12.5

50

2,36,900

223

16.5/7000

18.3/6000

5

125

N/A

1355

150

135

15

45

2,91,900

223

17.5/7000

18.3/6000

5

130

N/A

1350

160

145

15

48

1.24,900 (Self)

Karizma R

Karizma ZMR

795 795

NEW BIKE BUYER’S GUIDE

Top Speed (KMPH)

Updated May 2012

Pleasure 1,38,900 102 7/7000 7.8/5000 Auto 80 N/A 750 1240 125 95 5.5 50

Splendor NXG

1,42,900

97.2

Splendor +

1,38,900

97.2 7.4/8000 7.2/5000 4

85 N/A 775 1230 160

110 10.5

60

Splendor Pro

1,42,900

97.2

90

Super Splendor

1,54,900

124.7 9.13/7000 10.35/4000 4

7.7/7500

7.6/7500

7.6/6000

8.04/4500

4

4

100

N/A

N/A

100 N/A

Honda

785

1230

160

100

10

77

775

1230

160

100

11

60

775

1235

150

110

12

75

Syakar Company Ltd Kantipath, Tel: 4163501 | 4104517 Models

Activa

1,50,900

109

8/7500

8.8/5500

Auto

90

N/A

765

1238

145

100

5.3

55

Aviator 1,55,900 109 8/8000 8.82/5500 Auto 85 N/A 790 1256 145 95 6 52

CB Shine 1,71,900(Disk)

124.6

10.3/7500

10.9/5500

4

100

N/A

790

1265

175

110

11

80

CB Twister

1,63,900(Disk)

109

9/8000

9/6500

4

95

N/A

800

1262

180

100

8

70

CB Unicorn

2,02,900

149.1

13.2/8000

12.8/5500

5

115

N/A

790

1340

180

135

13

60

CB Unicorn

Dazzler

2,09,900

149.1

14/8500

12.8/6500

5

120

N/A

780

1328

162

125

12

55

CBF Stunner

1,78,900

124.7

11/8000

11/6500

5

100

N/A

790

1271

173

120

10

60

Dio

1,49,900

102

7/7000

80

N/A

762

1235

145

100

6

50

CBR 250R

5,14,900(C-ABS)

249

25.3/8500

23 7000

6

155

N/A

780

1370

145

150

13

35

CBR 600RR

20,50,000

599

118/13500

66/11250

6

240

N/A

820

1369

135

156

18

20

CB 600F Hornet

16,99,900

599

102/12000

63.510500

6

210

N/A

800

1435

135

19

20

CB 1000R

CBR1000RR

NXR150 BROS

183

22,00,000 999 125/10000 100/8000 6 240 N/A 825 1445 130 213 17 15

26,00,000

5,25,000

XR250 Tornado 6,25,000

www.autolife.com.np

7.8/5500 Auto

999 175/12000 112/8500 6

N/A N/A 820 1410 N/A 200

149.2 14/8000 13.6/6000 5 N/A N/A 830 1353 245

249 23.3/7500 23.7/6000 6

140 N/A 880 1427 281

17.7

15

12

N/A

135 11.5

N/A

120

June 2012

89

Fuel Tank (Litre)

Mileage (kmpl)

160

17

N/A

647 72/9000 61/7250 6 190 N/A 790 1435 185 200

17

N/A

11,10,900

647

72/9000

61/7250

6

200

N/A

830

1435

165

200

17

N/A

RT 125D

4,68,900

124.5

13.5/10000

11/8000

5

N/A

N/A

790

1350

230

135

7

N/A

GV250

6,49,900

249 27/10500 22/7500 5 N/A N/A 710 1508 150 167

14

N/A

GV650P

13,50,000

249 80/9000 67/7250 5 N/A N/A 705 1700 160 220

14

N/A

160

17

35

100

6

45

Power (BHP)

Hyosung

Height (MM)

155

Length (MM)

Dry Weight (KG)

Ground Clearance (MM)

Wheelbase (MM)

Top Speed (KMPH)

N/A

Gears

17

Torque (NM)

160

Cubic Capacity (CC)

175

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Price (NRS)

NEW BIKE BUYER’S GUIDE

Updated May 2012

Batas Motors Pvt. Ltd Naxal, Tel: 4004626 | 4004627

Models

GT250N

6,20,900

249

GT250R

7,05,900

249 26.35/9000 21/6750 5

GT650N

10,65,900

GT650R

26.5/9000

21/6750

5

150

N/A

830

1435

150 N/A 830 1435

Kawasaki

Hansraj Hulaschand & Co. Ltd Teku, Tel: 4220094 | 4261200

Models

Ninja 250R

7,49,900

249 32/11000 22/8200 6 160 N/A 790 1400 135

Mahindra 2 Wheelers

SG Global Pvt. Ltd Teku, Tel: 4251202

Models

Duro Rodeo

N/A

124.6

N/A

124.6 8/7000 9/5500 Auto 85 N/A 760 1245 155 106 4.5 45

PIAGGIO

8/7500

9/5500

Auto

85

N/A

PIAGGIO

770

1290

155

Anna Automobile Pvt. Ltd Teku, Tel: 4229855

Models

BYQ125

1,48,000

126.3

9.7/8500

8.6/7000

4

N/A

N/A

N/A

1295

180

115

14

45

Citypard 150

1,55,000

149

11.7/8000

11/6000

5

N/A

N/A

870

1400

150

115

14

45

1,49,000

90

6.5

50

iShine 100

96.21

N/A 6.81/6000 Auto N/A N/A N/A 1340 130

Rieju

Tunche Trans Himalayan Trading Concern Bhrikuti Mandap, Tel: 4268169 Models Marathon 185

3,88,000

125

15

20

6

115

Marathon 185 Pro

4,67,000

125

15

20

6

120 N/A 870 1395 n/a 115

6.5 N/a

Marathon 450

11,00,000

449

N/A

N/A

5

N/A N/A 900 1485 N/A

8.5

4,70,000 230 N/A

Tango 250

N/A

870

1395

N/A

115

115

6.5

N/a

N/A

N/A 5 N/A N/A 840 N/A N/A 100 5.5 N/A

Royal Enfield

Dugar Brothers & Sons Pvt. Ltd Balaju, Tel: 4362992

Models Classic 350

4,11,000

346

20/5250

28/4000

5

N/A

N/A

800

1370

140

170

13.5

N/a

CLASSIC CHROME Classic 500 desert storm

5,35,000 4,95,000 5,15,000

499

27/5250

41.3/4000

5

130

N/A

800

1370

140

170

13.5

N/a

Electra Twin Spark

3,95,000

346

20/5250

28/4000

5

115

N/A

800

1370

140

170

13.5

N/a

3,35,000

346

18/5000

32/3000

4

100

N/A

760

1370

140

150

14.5

35

4,11,000

346

20/5250

28/4000

5

115

N/A

770

1370

140

170

15.5

35

STD350 UCE

Thunderbird Twin Spark

Suzuki

Ganesh Enterprises Kamalpokhari, Tel: 4422818 | 4423444 Models Access 125

90

June 2012

1,59,888

124

8.5/7000

9.8/5000

Auto n/a

N/A

780

1250

160

110

6

www.autolife.com.np

N/a

Power (BHP)

Torque (NM)

Gears

Top Speed (KMPH)

Length (MM)

Height (MM)

Wheelbase (MM)

Ground Clearance (MM)

Dry Weight (KG)

Fuel Tank (Litre)

Mileage (kmpl)

Cubic Capacity (CC)

10/8000

10/7500

Auto

90

N/A

745

1255

120

110

7.8

N/a

Models

AN 125HK

GN125H GS150R

n/a

124

n/a

124 12/8000 10/7500 5 110 N/A 735 1280 175 107 10.3 35

2,07,888 149.5 13.8/8500 13.4/6000 6 110 N/A 790 1340 160 135 15.5 60

slingshot

1,65,888 (disk)

124

8.5/8500

10/6000

5

100

N/A

790

1265

160

115

12

60

B-King

25,00,000

1340

181/9500

146/7200

6

240

N/A

805

1525

120

235

16.5

N/A

Burgman 400

16,50,000 400 34/7300 36.3/5800 Auto 150 N/A 710 1585 125 210 13.5 N/A

GZ250

6,25,000

249

20/8000

18.7/7000

5

N/A

N/A

680

1450

125

140

13

N/A

DR200SE

6,00,000

199

15/8500

17.7/7000

5

N/A

N/A

810

1405

260

115

13

40

Hayabusa

N/A

1340

197/9800

154/10200

6

296

N/A

805

1480

120

220

21

15

GSR600 16,00,000 (ABS)

599

93/12000

65/9600

6

215

N/A

785

1440

130

185

16.5

20

GSX650F

16,50,000

656

85/10500

62/8900

6

240

N/A

770

1470

125

220

19

20

GSX-R600

22,00,000

599

125/13500

68/11500

6

265

N/A

810

1400

130

180

17

15

TVS

NEW BIKE BUYER’S GUIDE

All prices are subject to change with the market scenario. Please confirm with the showroom for accuracy.

Price (NRS)

Updated May 2012

AIT Pvt. Ltd Teku, Tel: 4253661 | 4261330 Models Apache RTR 160

2,05,886

159.7

15.2/8500

13.1/6000

5

120

N/A

790

1300

180

120

16

50

Apache RTR 180

2,18,881

177.4

17/8500

15.5/6500

5

125

N/A

790

1326

180

120

16

45

Scooty Pep+

1,26,390

87.8

5/6500

5.8/4000 Auto

75

N/A

740

1230

135

90

5

55

Scooty Streak

1,34,922

87.8

5/6500

5.8/4000

Auto

80

N/A

740

1230

135

90

4.7

55

Star City 110

1,41,928

109.7

8.2/7500

8.1/5000

4

90

N/A

790

1240

165

95

16

67

Jive

1,52,889

109.7

8.4/7500

8.3/5500 Auto

95

N/A

780

1260

165

95

15

65

Wego

1,53,906

109.7

8/7500

85

N/A

770

1275

150

100

5

40

8/5500

Auto

Yamaha

Morang Auto Works Teku, Tel: 4261160 | 4268252 Models

Enticer DLX

1,78,900

123.7

11/8000

10.4/6500

4 n/a

N/A

710

1375

140

105

13.5

N/a

Fazer

2,21,900

153

14/7500

14/6000

5

115

N/A

790

1335

160

130

13.5

45

FZ-16

1,99,900

153

14/7500

14/6000

5

115

N/A

790

1335

160

125

12

45

FZ-S

2,15,900

153 14/7500 14/6000 5 115 N/A 790 1335 160 125

12

45

SS 125

1,72,900

123

11/7500

10.4/6500

5

110

N/A

795

1295

155

110

13

70

SZ-R 1,86,900 (disk)

153

12/7500

12.8/4500

5

105

N/A

802

1320

165

120

14

50

SZ-X

1,74,900

153

12/7500

12.8/4500

5

105

N/A

802

1320

165

120

14

50

YBR 110

1,41,900

106

7.5/7500

7.8/6000

4

100

N/A

795

1290

173

115

13

65

YBR 125 DX

1,58,900

123

10.8/7500

10.4/6500

4

105

N/A

795

1300

180

115

13.5

60

YZF R15 V2

3,19,900

149.8

17/8500

15/7500

6

135

N/A

790

1290

160

120

12

42

YZF-R6

20,46,900

599

122/14500 65.7/10500

6 n/a

N/A

850

1375

130

175

17

17

XJ6

15,17,900

600

78/10000

6

N/A

785

1440

140

190

17.3

20

www.autolife.com.np

60/6100

N/A

June 2012

91

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