The Platina will soon complete a decade since it was born at Bajaj Auto here in India. The motorcycle has helped Bajaj garner substantial sales volume, as it is one of its most fuel-efficient and low maintenance offerings in the entry-level motorcycle segment. Bajaj Auto recently hopped on to the right path by launching two motorcycles - the Platina ES and the refreshed CT100 - in the entry-level segment, not only to offer variety, but also to cater to this vast market.
For the new Platina ES, which is now equipped with a self-start function, Bajaj Auto claims a higher mileage figure than before. Bajaj Auto’s technological base has been strengthened by the help of the Mattighofen-based motorcycle specialist – KTM – because of whom they now produce one of the world’s most advanced single-cylinder motorcycle engines right here in India. The one thing similar to Bajaj's economy and performance bikes is the value-for-money price-tags they offer across the range. And now, the Indian brand is once again paying attention to the neglected commuter segment and the mass-market consumer.
As simple as it may sound, reviewing the Bajaj Platina ES was actually quite interesting. A ride in heavy traffic quickly made me realise just how easy the Platina ES was to live with. It is an efficient people mover, and even if it only moves two at a time, it does so gently.
The Platina ES is long and sleek in the flesh, with a refreshed front fascia that it largely carries forward from the regular Platina. But overall, the ES is almost completely redesigned. The bright red motorcycle provided to us looked smart in the flesh. Its front cowl is reworked to form a solid panel now - the black visor seen on the previous model has been dropped. Protected by the cowl is an old school, all-analogue instrument panel, displaying a speedometer, odometer and a fuel gauge via twin chrome-rimed meters. Handle grips are soft to touch and are of decent quality, so are the black levers. Mirrors work well to provide a broad view of the approaching traffic. The well-curved fuel-tank has a filler-cap hinge provided for convenience. Moving on, a long, flattish and dual-tone saddle is provided with a grippy seat-cover for the rider and pillion. Body-coloured grab handle make their way on here.
The Platina ES now has a completely blacked out engine that helps carry on the all-black theme, which includes the rims, the exhaust pipe and the chassis. The chrome exhaust cover is the only part that stands out in the shadowy backdrop. The new Bajaj Platina ES comes equipped with a 102cc, four-stroke, single cylinder engine that is naturally cooled by air.
The new motorcycle is equipped with a thumb-starter that does not require the clutch to be engaged when cranking, and does so with no fuss at all, to settle into a quiet idle.
The Platina ES is equipped with dual spark plugs, and uses a pair of valves for intake and exhaust duty. The engine produces 8.2bhp at 7,500rpm and offers maximum torque of 0.9kgm produced at 5,000rpm. The motor is largely smooth, and feels most comfortable when maintaining speeds close to 60kph. Push the bike further, and it will attain an indicated maximum speed of 80kph. The engine is most suited for city commuting, where its smoothness is apparent.
Bajaj, however, provides a carburettor choke system below the fuel-tank, which could have been more accessible.
The Platina ES uses a four-speed gearbox that shifts in an all-down pattern. The shifting pattern itself takes some time getting used to, but it shouldn't be a problem for new motorcycle users. Clutch action is light, and will surely provide ease when shifting. The engine is flexible, and is capable of pulling all the way from 25kph to 80kph in the fourth gear itself, within a reasonable time, which gives the Platina ES a convenient edge while riding in the city. Bajaj has also provided this bike with a no-maintenance battery.
The Bajaj Platina ES weighs only 108kg, which, as you may imagine, makes it a light handling motorcycle. Its front steering is light, which helps it change directions surprisingly quickly, and is a boon when trying to avoid undulations. Bajaj has provided a good turning radius here, which makes taking U-turns a joy. Plus, the grippy CEAT tyres instil confidence while riding the motorcycle. The Platina ES is petite and handles well in the city, and can also cruise well on the highway if needed, due to its comfortable, upright seating posture.
Suspension duty is carried out by telescopic forks up front, which absorb the bumps on the road well. At the rear, Bajaj provides its shock-in-shock suspension that also absorbs undulations well, and provides a stable ride. The suspension setup is on the softer side, but on the go, the motorcycle feels stable and not un-settled. Overall ride quality is good, with a firm-yet-softish seat making the rider and pillion comfortable.
Braking duty is carried out by drum brakes up front and back, that work well to provide decent stopping power for its segment. Although they do not give the precision of a disc brake, they do ensure decent braking when called for. For its segment, the Platina ES feels well put together, and it will not take much time to get used to the motorcycle.
The Indian two-wheeler market is evolving at a steady pace, and one would argue that the 100cc motorcycle segment is not the most exciting segment. But when it comes to low maintenance and superior fuel-efficiency, this is the one segment that still stands taller than the rest. Moreover, brands such as Bajaj are leaving no stone unturned when it comes to updating their products with stylish looks, convenience and comfort. The Bajaj Platina ES faces competition from able rivals such as the Honda CD 100 Dream and the TVS Sport, but has its own charm to compete strongly in the commuter segment. The Bajaj Platina ES costs Rs 45,431 (ex-showroom, Mumbai) and is available at Bajaj showrooms now.
