In the bustling streets of India, where every rupee counts and efficiency is paramount, Bajaj Auto has once again proven its mettle with the latest iteration of the Platina series.
As we delve into the world of economical commuting, the Bajaj Platina emerges as a beacon of hope for budget-conscious riders seeking reliability, comfort, and unparalleled fuel efficiency.
The Legacy of Platina
The Platina nameplate has been a stalwart in the Indian two-wheeler market since its inception in 2006. Born from the lineage of the Bajaj Wind 125 and inheriting the robust CT100 engine,
the Platina quickly carved a niche for itself in the hearts of Indian commuters. Within a mere eight months of its launch, Bajaj had sold a staggering 500,000 units, cementing the Platina’s position as a people’s champion.
Fast forward to the present day, and the Platina continues to evolve, adapting to the changing needs of the Indian consumer while staying true to its core values of affordability and efficiency.
The Platina Range: Something for Everyone
Today, the Bajaj Platina family offers a range of options to cater to diverse rider preferences:
Bajaj Platina 100: The entry-level workhorse
Bajaj Platina 110: The premium commuter
Bajaj Platina 125: The power-packed performer (discontinued but worth mentioning)
Let’s take a closer look at what makes each of these models tick.
Bajaj Platina 100: The Economical Marvel
The Platina 100 stands as the most accessible model in the lineup, with an ex-showroom price starting at a wallet-friendly Rs. 66,840. Don’t let its affordable price tag fool you – this little dynamo packs quite a punch.
Engine and Performance:
102cc, single-cylinder engine
Power output: 7.9 PS @ 7500 rpm
Torque: 8.34 Nm @ 5500 rpm
4-speed manual transmission
Fuel Efficiency:
The Platina 100 boasts an impressive real-world mileage of 72 kmpl, making it one of the most fuel-efficient motorcycles in its class. This translates to significant savings at the pump, a crucial factor for daily commuters.
Features:
LED DRL
Long, comfortable seat
Tubeless tires
Low maintenance design
The Platina 100 is available in both kick-start and electric-start variants, catering to different user preferences and budget constraints.
Bajaj Platina 110: Stepping Up the Game
For those seeking a bit more oomph in their daily ride, the Platina 110 offers a perfect balance of power and efficiency. Priced at Rs. 69,000 onwards, it brings additional features and performance to the table.
Engine and Performance:
115.45cc, single-cylinder engine
Power output: 8.6 PS @ 7000 rpm
Torque: 9.81 Nm @ 5000 rpm
5-speed manual transmission (H-Gear)
Fuel Efficiency:
While slightly lower than its 100cc sibling, the Platina 110 still delivers an impressive 70 kmpl in real-world conditions.
This minor trade-off in mileage is more than compensated for by the increased power and smoother highway cruising capabilities.
Features:
ComforTec suspension for a plush ride
Wider rear tire for improved stability
Digital speedometer with gear indicator
LED headlamp with DRL
Front disc brake option (on select variants)
The Platina 110’s H-Gear transmission deserves special mention. This 5-speed gearbox allows for more relaxed cruising at higher speeds, reducing engine stress and improving overall efficiency on longer rides.
The Ghost of Platina Past: Remembering the 125cc Variant
While no longer in production, the Bajaj Platina 125 holds a special place in the hearts of many Indian riders. Its brief stint in the market showcased Bajaj’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of affordable performance.
Engine and Performance:
124.6cc, air-cooled engine
Power output: 8.5 PS @ 7000 rpm
Torque: 10 Nm @ 4000 rpm
5-speed manual transmission
Fuel Efficiency:
The Platina 125 delivered a respectable 65 kmpl in city conditions, striking a balance between power and efficiency.
Though discontinued, the spirit of the Platina 125 lives on in the current lineup, with its DNA evident in the refined performance of the 110cc model.
Unmatched Affordability: Bringing Home a Platina for Just Rs. 7,000
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the Indian two-wheeler market, Bajaj has introduced an unprecedented financing scheme that allows customers to bring home a Platina for an initial down payment of just Rs. 7,000.
This groundbreaking offer has made motorcycle ownership more accessible than ever before, especially for young professionals and students entering the workforce.
The scheme works on a simple principle: by spreading the cost of the motorcycle over an extended period and keeping the initial investment low, Bajaj has effectively removed the financial barriers that often prevent potential buyers from taking the plunge.
Here’s how the numbers break down:
Down payment: Rs. 7,000
Loan tenure: Up to 36 months
Monthly EMI: Starting from Rs. 2,199 (varies based on model and variant)
This innovative financing option has several advantages:
Low initial investment: The Rs. 7,000 down payment is within reach for a much larger segment of the population.
Affordable monthly payments: The extended loan tenure ensures that the EMIs remain manageable, even for those on tight budgets.
Builds credit history: For young buyers, this scheme offers an opportunity to establish a positive credit record, which can be beneficial for future financial endeavors.
Immediate mobility: Instead of saving for months or years, buyers can start enjoying the benefits of personal transportation right away.
The introduction of this scheme has led to a surge in Platina sales, with dealerships reporting a significant increase in footfall and inquiries. It’s not just about selling motorcycles; it’s about empowering millions of Indians with the freedom of mobility.
Wreak Havoc on the Competition
The Bajaj Platina series, with its unbeatable combination of affordability, fuel efficiency, and reliable performance, has effectively wreaked havoc on the competition. Let’s examine how the Platina stacks up against some of its key rivals:
- Hero Splendor Plus:
Price: Rs. 71,495 (ex-showroom)
Engine: 97.2cc
Mileage: 80.6 kmpl (ARAI claimed)
While the Splendor Plus boasts slightly better claimed mileage, the Platina undercuts it significantly in price while offering comparable features and performance.
TVS Sport:
Price: Rs. 63,990 to Rs. 68,093 (ex-showroom)
Engine: 99.7cc to 109.7cc
Mileage: 84 kmpl (claimed)
The TVS Sport comes close in pricing, but the Platina offers better build quality and a more comfortable ride, especially on longer journeys.
Honda CD 110 Dream:
- Price: Rs. 70,315 (ex-showroom)
- Engine: 109.51cc
- Mileage: 74 kmpl (claimed)
Honda’s offering is pricier than the Platina 110 while offering similar performance. The Platina’s superior suspension setup gives it an edge in ride comfort.
The Platina’s disruptive pricing strategy, coupled with its proven reliability and low maintenance costs, has forced competitors to reassess their offerings and pricing structures.
This competition ultimately benefits the end consumer, driving innovation and value across the segment.
The Platina Experience: More Than Just Numbers
While the specifications and pricing of the Platina series are impressive on paper, the true magic of these motorcycles is best experienced on the road. Owners consistently praise the Platina for its:
Comfortable ride: The long, well-padded seat and ComforTec suspension make long journeys a breeze.
Low maintenance: The robust engine design and quality components translate to fewer workshop visits and lower running costs.
Excellent fuel efficiency: The real-world mileage figures often exceed expectations, bringing smiles to owners’ faces at the fuel pump.
Reliability: The Platina series has built a reputation for starting up faithfully, day after day, year after year.
Resale value: The strong brand recognition and proven durability ensure that Platina models retain their value well in the second-hand market.
User Testimonials:
Rajesh Kumar, a 28-year-old software engineer from Pune, shares his experience: “I’ve been riding my Platina 110 for over two years now, covering more than 30,000 kilometers.
The bike has never let me down, and I still get around 68-70 kmpl in the city. The best part? I hardly spend anything on maintenance!”
Priya Sharma, a college student from Delhi, adds: “The Platina 100 was my first bike, and I couldn’t be happier.
The low down payment made it possible for me to buy it with my savings from part-time work. It’s so easy to ride in traffic, and I feel safe with the CBS (Combined Braking System).”
Looking Ahead: The Future of Platina
As we move towards a more environmentally conscious future, Bajaj is not resting on its laurels. Rumors abound of an electric Platina in the works, promising to bring the same values of affordability and efficiency to the world of electric two-wheelers.
While details remain scarce, industry insiders suggest that the electric Platina could feature:
A range of up to 100 km on a single charge
Fast charging capabilities
The same comfortable ride and practical features as its petrol-powered siblings
A price point that remains true to the Platina’s affordable legacy
Whether powered by petrol or electricity, one thing is certain: the Bajaj Platina will continue to play a crucial role in India’s mobility landscape, providing reliable, efficient, and accessible transportation to millions.
Bajaj Platina: The People’s Champion Rides On
In a country where every paisa counts and the journey is as important as the destination, the Bajaj Platina series stands tall as a testament to Indian engineering and understanding of consumer needs.
By offering unmatched affordability, excellent mileage, and a comfortable riding experience, the Platina has not just entered the homes of millions of Indians – it has entered their hearts.
As we look to the future, the Platina’s legacy of innovation, affordability, and reliability promises to keep it at the forefront of India’s two-wheeler market.
Whether you’re a student, a working professional, or a family looking for economical transportation, the Bajaj Platina offers a solution that’s hard to beat.
In the end, the Bajaj Platina is more than just a motorcycle; it’s a partner in progress, a facilitator of dreams, and a true people’s champion.
As it continues to wreak havoc on conventional notions of affordability and efficiency, one thing is clear: the Platina’s journey has only just begun, and the road ahead looks brighter than ever.