2011 Stallio

Indian mega manufacturer Mahindra is diving full bore into the motorcycle game. On the heels of the launch of their 2011 Mihindra Mojo (a performance motorcycle), the company introduces the 2011 Mahindra Stallio, a low cost motorcycle with fuel economy and practicality at its core, but with a real focus on flare.

Italian heritage figures prominently into the machine as the Mahindra design headquarters are based in Bologna, not far from Ducati, imbuing the new motorcycles with an inherent sense of style.

The streetbike manufacturer is ramping up an aggressive program with its two-wheeler program with the aim of offering a full slate of scooters and small to mid-range displacement motorcycles.

They are aimed straight at the heart of popular motorcycles on the streets of India including the TVS Apache 180 RTR, Bajaj Pulsar 180, Yamaha FZ16 and Hero Honda Karisma R.

The company's Sept. 30 launch of the new Stallio had Indian actor, producer, director Aamir Khan personally unveiling the sporty commuter, serving as the bike's ambassador, which is targeted at attracting India's rapidly expanding market of young executives and businessmen.

The Stallio is powered by a 110cc, 4-stroke, air-cooled single engine and is available in two versions; one boasting an electric start, cast allow wheels and a digital console; the other with a kick-starter and spoked wheels.

Multiple reflectors combined with powerful LED lighting front and rear enhance visibility, making the Stallio a safer night ride. In keeping with their mandate of being on the cusp of hip the 2011 Stallio is available in Derby Red, Colt Black, Equus Blue, Buckskin Yellow and Ranch Green.

Mahindra is quickly becoming a leader in motorcycles and scooters in the Indian market, with eyes on global expansion. The company's Power Scooters are already finding a large consumer base with the Mahindra Rodeo popular with Indian youths, the Duro serving as a family scooter, and the Flyte aimed squarely at women.

The 2011 Mahindra Stallio comes with a 4 years manufacturer's warranty. MSRP is set at Rs 44,699 (~$1,007 USD) with the cast alloy wheels, self-start and fully digital console. MSRP is set at Rs 41,199 (~$928 USD) for spoke wheels and kick-start.

Low cost transportation aside, I'd like to line up twenty Stallios on a go-track track for some low-cost, all-out fun racing.