May 2021

Trying Times Are Here Again

The second wave of the coronavirus has hit the country and most of the cities are under partial or total lockdown. Needless to say, this is going to take a toll on the economy which was just about trying to limp back to normality following the outbreak of the fearsome pandemic last year.

This month we bring you the long-awaited Bike India Awards. We delayed the Awards this year in order have a proper presentation ceremony. However, the virus struck again and made it impossible for us to organise a presentation ceremony. Therefore, we decided to personally call on all the winners and present the trophies at their offices.

The year gone by was a tough one for each one of us. Even with all the headwind, the automotive industry has done pretty well and that reflected in the number of new bikes launched in 2020. We had as many as 25 new bikes contending for the coveted Two-wheeler of the Year Award.

Being the only dedicated two-wheeler magazine, it is important that we bring you all the latest news and first rides of all the new scooters, motorcycles, and EVs. This month we have tested an electric motorcycle and also taken a first ride on the Triumph Trident 660.

Rampant lack of discipline and consideration for fellow citizens go to show how we have no respect for traffic rules. To pander to our self-centred convenience, we will not ride for those extra 50 metres to make a U-turn but go down the wrong way instead. This attitude has now proved detrimental to us with the spread of COVID-19 due to negligence in wearing the mandatory mask. Please wear a mask and a helmet while riding a two-wheeler. I wish our leaders practised what they preach.