Honda Activa

Honda Motors and Scooters India Pvt. Ltd is a leading automobile dealer in India. It covers major share of the two-wheeler market in India. In the 100CC segment, it has offered a highly efficient vehicle, Honda Activa. Since its launch, it has been quite popular among the many classes of consumers. Honda Activa is a unisex two-wheeler scoter. Now the Honda has updated it with more advanced features to cater the demands of users.

Before the launch of Activa, Honda was known for geared scooter. Later it launched Activa, which is a gearless scooter. This scooter became an instant hit in the cities among the men and women both. Working women saw it as a tool to save their time and energy in their daily struggle to meet the deadlines on both fronts; home and office. Actually, the inspiration to device this scooter came from Kinetic Automation but this Honda had more features to catch the fancy of consumers. Honda Activa is the blend of perfect styling, high performance and great fuel economy.

Look and style of the Activa is taken from its predecessor Aviator. This scooter is regarded as the family scooter in India. It offers great riding and handling comfort. Headlamp of this scooter is equipped with halogen lamps and there is clear lens turn-indicator on the rear side of the scooter. There is aluminum grab rail which is designed attractively. When it comes to colors of scooter, you have a wide range to choose from. It include vibrant colors like candy lucid red, wild purple metallic, pearl sunbeam white, grey metallic , space silver metallic to black.

When we talk about the performance of this scooter, engine is the most important element. It is powered by a 110cc engine. This engine generates maximum power of 8bhp at 7500 rpm and 0.9 kgm of torque at 5500 rpm. It is lace with unique technology called CBS (Combined braking system). Using this feature, scooter can be stopped by applying any of the brakes. Though it has other good features, but there is little drawback in terms of reduced fuel tank with a capacity of 5.7 liter. Other features include increased storage, electric start, kick start,

It comes with puncture proof rear tyre which has a tuff up tube. It is a light weight scooter with metal alloy and can be easily handled. It features a key shutter which protects it against any protect using duplicate keys.

The Honda Activa delivers decent mileage. This scooter has become perfect symbol of style, performance and affordability among the Indian middle class.

Bajaj Xcd

Bajaj Bikes are among the most popular bikes running on Indian roads. Young bikers have liking for these high performance bikes. Bajaj Auto caters to the large market shares in the two wheeler market segment. This bike is designed for the consumers of middle segment. Bajaj XCD 135 DTS-I is launched for the bikers who are interested in buying a 125cc bikes as this bike is more powerful and performance packed.
Bajaj XCD 135 DTS-I is stylish and sporty in look. There are three variants of this bike which have distinctive features like drum brakes, kick start and disc brakes. You can choose from the five colors of this bike.

Though Bajaj XCD 135 DTS- Si is a middle level bike but it has competition with super bikes, getting launched every now and then, in the market. Enthusiastic bikers like to have stylish and sporty bike. Looks of this bike is enhanced from that of 125cc. This bike looks stronger. It features uniquely styled twin pilot headlamps, tail lamp cluster and the sharp indicators. To make it look slimmer, some interesting graphics have been added to the petrol tank and the back rail. Overall, the bike looks stylish.

Bajaj XCD 135 DTS-Si is equipped with a 135 cc engine which delivers maximum output of 10.2 PS @ 7500 rpm and 11.58 nm of torque @5000 rpm. Though powerful than its successor 125cc but is not much powerful when compared to other bikes. You can drive it comfortably even in fifth gear and fourth gears at low speeds. It picks up fast and accelerates to a speed of 80 kmph in just 10 seconds while in fifth gear. But at the speed of 100 kmph or more, the bike starts vibrating. This bike delivers a mileage of 62 kmpl.

When talking about ride and comfort of this bike, this bike has better stability than 125cc bike. Because of the large wheelbase of 1275mm, handling of this bike easy and more comfortable. Other excellent features of this bike include 5 speed gear box, ExhausTEC system which help in reducing the noise. This bike also comes laced with auto choke, gas-filled Nitrox shock absorbers, and disc brakes. All these features help the bike to stay in great control even on the bumpy roads.

Some of the excellent features of this bike are electric start, low-friction front suspension, lowered handle bar to improve the control, Led tail lamps, ground clearance 165.00 mm. This is among the cheapest bikes in this segment. So when planning to buy a new bike, this bike is an excellent option.

Motorbike Or Car?

Motorcycle owners often seem to claim that riding a bike is simply more fun than driving a car. Is this really the case? We take a closer look at these two methods of transport.We all probably have slightly different requirements when it comes to finding a suitable means of transport. For some of us, it's all about getting from one place to another. We want to do that with the minimum of fuss.

For others, there is a level of enjoyment that can be associated with the whole experience of driving a car, or riding a bike. Rather than just being seen as a means of getting from 'A' to 'B', there is a large element of fun that cannot be ignored.

The main difference between motorcycles and cars might be seen as a divide between practicalities and enjoyment. A bike, for example, may not be ideal if you have a large family and are going to use it regularly to do large shopping trips.

But does that really matter? After all, that's not what the machines are really designed for.

How many of us have sat in our car in a traffic jam and looked enviously at bike riders being able to quickly move beyond the queue? It's clear that this is one area where bikes have the advantage.

The other important area where motorcycles are often seen as being more fun is in allowing you to be more exposed to the elements. Although crash helmets are seen by some as restricting things a little, there's no doubt that being exposed can make for a more thrilling experience.

Can such an experience be matched in a car? Opening the sunroof on a standard family car doesn't really achieve the same objective!

For those who want to drive a car and still experience the thrill of the open road, a convertible is a good option that actually offers some similarities with motorbikes.

So which is best? Should you opt for a bike or a car?

The answer to the question really depends upon your requirements. You need to think about what the method of transport will be used for. Are you looking for pure fun, or is there a more practical element to your requirements?

If you struggle to make a decision then you could always get one of each!

Financing Your New Car

Before purchasing a dream car, try to assess if the budget can really afford it. Questions like, how will it be paid, who will be helping to pay for it, what is the price limit of the car to be bought, and how long will it take to pay off the car? These should be considered even while planning to buy the car. The trend nowadays is that people buy the cars by cashing out the down payment, and the balance will be paid by installment. Others are just lucky enough to have saved the right amount of money that they are able to cash out the total cost of the car, which, by the way, seldom happens now. Never set aside the possibility of paying thousands of dollars when buying from a dealer or a specific car company, where in the end, charges you more for the interest which takes even years to pay.

Once you have found a way to finance the car you are eyeing on, then it's time to start shopping around. There are credit unions and even local banks that are willing to loan the needed amount to purchase the car with an Annual Percentage Rate of only 1.9 per cent. However, this may turn out to be a catch, since this will only be happening on the first year. Without prior notice, these interest rates can increase which is a total inconvenience for those with just a fix income every year.

It is a big plus if a buyer is a member of a credit union. Being a member could save you from the trouble of spending a whole day in a lender's office because the processing of the loan could only take just a few minutes after filling out the necessary papers for the request. In a credit union, fifteen to twenty minutes is all that is needed to do the application. They could even loan even up to $25,000.00 within just an hour after signing the papers.

It will be very helpful when a research is made prior to making that loan for a car. Believe it or not, car dealers are really digging out most of the penny in a buyer's pocket by issuing interest that is sometimes unreasonable. There are two things needed to consider when thinking of financing a new car:

First, what's the price willing to be spent by a buyer? More often than not, other people would rather ask themselves the question: How much of the car price do they intend to buy instead? They will be willing if the know they can afford their choice. Consider monthly regular expenditures. The monthly payment for the new car should not get in the way of paying the fixed monthly dues in the household. If in case it does, by merely doing a math, then just consider a second hand car. Just make sure that all is checked and examined to avoid hassle in the future.

Second, is it really important to change cars every two to four years? Consider cars offered on a lease, if so. Other dealers and car companies offer the leasing of a car for that amount of time, which you can return but no money will be refunded. However, there is an allotted amount of distance or mileage that should be covered during those years of lease, but this is negotiable. On the other hand, if a buyer is not interested in changing cars, it's best not to opt for the cars for lease.

It is safest to get a loan from a credit union or a financial institution instead of a local car salesman; they would definitely try to reach even a buyer's bottom dollar. Getting information from someone whom can be trusted and expert about financing a car, for they will be able to give you tips at your own interest. Financing either a new or a second hand car is a lot of sweat, but the determination to get the best car at the best price can be considered a success.

This should be a win, win situation for anyone. After all it's your money that is at stake here. Do your research and it can be a beneficial decision on your part.

Gm's Hybrid Concept Vehicle

In a GM news announcement on February 10, 2006, the company announced the testing of a transit vehicle powered by General Motors' hybrid technology, which will be used for Cleveland's BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) automobile known as Silver Line. According to the recent GM news release, testing is currently being conducted by The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority.
The GM hybrid concept automobile is similar to the 21 automobiles that the Regional Transit Authority plans to purchase by the end of 2007. The recent GM news announcement reveals that Cleveland's reasoning behind the decision to purchase GM's hybrid-powered vehicles is because they offer a more economic fuel consumption, along with cleaner emissions than that of conventional bus transportation.

The Silver Line is just one aspect of The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority's impending project, which hopes to better transit service by using more environmentally friendly automobiles, reducing traffic congestion, increasing pedestrian safety and supporting increased improvements along city avenues. The project is geared toward providing shorter travel times for passengers, which will enable them to have better access to school, work, home, medical facilities and the city's recreational activities. The recent GM news announcement reveals the plan to have the Silver Line completely operational in 2008.

Public transportation buses, which are powered by GM's hybrid technology are shown to be better for the environment, overall fuel consumption and customer's wallets. Being more cost-effective than rail transportation is just one of the reasons that many commuters are deciding to take the bus. By combining GM's hybrid technology, consumers will see reasonable rates and have the convenience of cleaner air.

"The General Motors hybrid diesel electric drive system for buses uses the most efficient parallel hybrid architecture available in the world today and is perfect for BRT initiatives," said Tom Stephens, Group Vice President of GM Powertrain. In a recent GM news quote, Stephens added, "If the U.S. had only 1,000 GM hybrid powered buses operating in major cities, the cumulative savings would be more than 1.5 million gallons of fuel annually."
There are currently 380 GM hybrid technology buses operating in 29 cities throughout the United States and Canada. During 2006, GM has scheduled deliver of 216 hybrid-powered buses to six American cities.

GM news is constantly surrounding the most innovative new designs, technology and creations that the company has to offer. As the world moves ahead, hybrid transportation is expected to gain in popularity each year. Among their many benefits, hybrid automobiles are especially practical to helping conserve fuel while maximizing air quality.

Comparing Bmw And Mercedes

BMW - Give BMW credit for moving outside of the box by building a plant in South Carolina. Opened in 1994, the Spartanburg, SC plant has produced the Z3 - now Z4 - roadster as well as the X5 SAV. Seeking to become more of a world player, BMW has also purchased controlling interest in other automakers including Rolls-Royce and Rover during the 1990s. Later, BMW sold off the Rover and MG portions of Rover, but has kept the Mini brand.

BMW vehicles are well represented in the US. Coupes, sedans, convertibles, roadsters, and SUVs make up the American fleet with new cars at various stages of development being prepared for release.

Mercedes Benz - As part of the Daimler Chrysler fold, Mercedes Benz has been producing high quality automobiles for over a century. In 1998, seeking to expand its reach, Daimler Chrysler [DCX] bought out the Chrysler Corporation. Names such as Chrysler, Dodge, Plymouth, Jeep, and Mopar became part of the DCX fold, although Plymouth was discontinued a few years later.

The Mercedes Benz name is synonymous with luxury vehicles and in the US the company is well represented by a host of sedans, coupes, convertibles, tall wagons, SUVs, roadsters, and other fine vehicles.

Owners of BMWs and Mercedes Benz do have some things in common: vehicle maintenance. As high end vehicles, the automakers are noted for equipping their cars with only the finest OEM parts. Well represented manufacturers used by both companies include: Bosch, Hella, Mahle, Textar, Brembo, Bilstein, Febi, SKF, and others. Most are German born and bred and are recognized the world over for producing the highest quality parts for auto manufacturers.

Replacement auto parts purchased through dealer parts departments are priced at a premium. When you take into consideration any tariffs, import fees, and third party mark ups, consumers can expect to pay a mint for each part. The growing internet wholesale market has been changing the paradigm lately as companies such as Car Parts Stuff are selling direct to consumers. The better online wholesalers have lowered costs significantly as overhead is low and they buy direct from leading manufacturers. This translates into real savings for you, the consumer.

When purchasing any parts for your luxury car, always determine that the parts you order meet or exceed OEM specifications. There are a lot of counterfeit parts on the market; shop wisely and you will get premium parts at low prices.

Independent Mercedes Repair in Dallas

When looking for an independent Mercedes repair in Dallas, Texas, there are two places that are reputable when making those Mercedes repairs. Having been in business for some time now in Dallas, Texas, as an independent Mercedes repair shop, the folks at Dallas Auto Sports, dallasautosports.com, have the state-of-the-arts equipment and the highly trained mechanics who can restore your Mercedes to its top-running condition. The mechanics at Dallas Auto Sports guarantee the best parts for your Mercedes, as they are interested in making sure that it runs as it should when you leave after your repairs. Give them a try at Dallas Auto Sports; you'll never regret hiring one of the best Mercedes repair shops in town.

Also, located in Dallas, Texas, is the independent Mercedes repair shop at Louden Motorcar Services, Inc., loudenmotorcars.com, where you can be confident that you will receive only the best service and parts available for fixing your Mercedes. Louden has been in business for over 30 years in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, and they have the professional expertise that it takes to get the job done and done well. Founded in 1977 by Steve Louden, a racecar mechanic who knows his European cars well, this top-of-the-line Mercedes repair shop is one of the best independent Mercedes repair shops in Dallas, Texas.