Bajaj has silently launched the Platina ES in India at Rs 44,507 (ex-showroom Delhi). The Platina ES (electric start) is the updated version of its 100cc commuter motorcycle which gets a host of cosmetic and mechanical updates to set it apart from the standard motorcycle.
The new Platina ES is built around the same tubular single down tube frame, though it is now powered by a different 102cc DTS-I engine with an ExhausTEC system. The engine delivers 8.1bhp and 8.63Nm of torque, which is very similar to the power figures of the standard Platina. The engine comes mated to a four-speed gearbox. Suspension duties are performed by telescopic forks at the front and conventional SNS shocks with coil springs in the rear. Braking is performed by 110mm drum brakes on both the ends.
Cosmetically, the Platina ES has been updated with a revised headlamp cowl and side panels. The chrome heat shield on the silencer has also been redesigned, while the grab rails are now body-coloured. It also gets new decals and three new paint schemes – ebony black, electron blue and candy red.
This is not the first time Bajaj has introduced a DTS-I engine in the Platina, as it used to sell a similar model between 2009 and 2012. However as it already had the Discover 100 with a DTS-I engine in its line-up, Bajaj discontinued the Platina DTS-I to avoid cannibalism within the brand. Bajaj is claiming a fuel-efficiency of 96.9kmpl for the new Platina ES, which means that it will be perfect for customers who need a basic hassle-free motorcycle with a great efficiency. The Platina ES competes with other 100cc commuters like the Hero Splendor Plus, Honda Dream Neo, TVS Star City Plus and the Suzuki Hayate.
