In the bustling streets of India, where two-wheelers reign supreme, the Bajaj Platina has long been a familiar sight.
With the introduction of the Platina 110 ABS, Bajaj Auto has not just updated a popular model; they’ve redefined what riders can expect from an entry-level commuter motorcycle.
Let’s dive deep into what makes this latest iteration of the Platina a game-changer in its segment.
Design: Subtle Evolution, Significant Impact
At first glance, the Platina 110 ABS might not look drastically different from its predecessors.
But look closer, and you’ll notice the subtle refinements that make a world of difference.
The front fascia sports a redesigned headlamp cluster, now featuring an LED DRL (Daytime Running Light) that gives the bike a more premium appearance while enhancing visibility.
The side profile retains the Platina’s characteristic long seat and sleek body panels, but with updated graphics that add a touch of modernity.
The rear section sees minor tweaks, including a redesigned taillight that complements the overall aesthetic.
Color options have been expanded to include:
Ebony Black with Blue decals
Cocktail Wine Red
Saffire Blue
Sterling Silver
Each color scheme is carefully chosen to appeal to a wide range of riders, from young professionals to seasoned commuters.
Heart of the Matter: Performance and Efficiency
Powering the Platina 110 ABS is Bajaj’s tried-and-tested 115.45cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine. But don’t let the familiar specifications fool you – this powerplant has received significant updates to enhance both performance and efficiency.
Key specifications include:
Power Output: 8.6 PS @ 7,000 rpm
Torque: 9.81 Nm @ 5,000 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed gearbox
What sets this engine apart is its focus on refinement and fuel efficiency. Bajaj claims a mileage figure of 72 km/l under standard testing conditions, making the Platina 110 ABS one of the most fuel-efficient motorcycles in its class.
Real-world efficiency often hovers around the 65-70 km/l mark, which is still impressive for a 110cc motorcycle.
The engine’s character is tuned for stress-free city riding. There’s ample low-end torque for quick getaways at traffic lights, and the mid-range is strong enough for confident overtakes.
While it may not set your pulse racing on open highways, the Platina 110 ABS can comfortably cruise at 70-80 km/h, with enough reserve power for occasional bursts of speed when needed.
Ride and Handling: Comfort Redefined
The Platina has always been known for its comfortable ride, and the 110 ABS takes this reputation to new heights.
The suspension setup consists of telescopic forks at the front and Bajaj’s proprietary Nitrox gas-charged twin shock absorbers at the rear.
This combination, along with the long wheelbase, results in a plush ride that soaks up road imperfections with aplomb.
One of the standout features is the class-leading 100/90-17 rear tire, which offers improved grip and stability compared to the narrower tires typically found in this segment.
The front gets a 80/100-17 tire, providing a good balance between handling and comfort.
The riding position is upright and relaxed, with a wide handlebar that offers good leverage for maneuvering through city traffic.
The long seat, one of the Platina’s signature features, provides ample space for both rider and pillion, making it ideal for those who frequently travel with a passenger.
Safety First: The ABS Advantage
The headline feature of this model is, of course, the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Bajaj has equipped the Platina 110 with a single-channel ABS that works on the front wheel.
This is a significant upgrade in a segment where even CBS (Combined Braking System) is often considered a premium feature.
The ABS is paired with a 240mm front disc brake, while the rear retains a 110mm drum brake. This setup provides confident braking performance, allowing riders to stop quickly and safely even in challenging conditions.
The inclusion of ABS is particularly valuable for less experienced riders and in unpredictable traffic situations, potentially preventing accidents caused by wheel lock-up during panic braking.
Features: Punching Above Its Weight
Despite its positioning as an entry-level commuter, the Platina 110 ABS comes loaded with features that enhance both comfort and convenience:
LED DRL: Enhances visibility and adds a premium touch to the front fascia.
Digital Speedometer: Provides clear, easy-to-read information including speed, fuel level, and trip data.
Gear Shift Guide: Helps riders optimize their gear changes for better fuel efficiency.
Low Battery Indicator: Alerts riders when the battery voltage drops below a certain level.
Service Reminder: Ensures timely maintenance for optimal performance.
Quilt-stitched Seat: Enhances comfort during long rides.
Wide Rubber Footpads: Provide better grip and comfort for the rider.
These features, while not groundbreaking individually, come together to create a package that feels premium for its segment.
Real-World Performance: The Rider’s Perspective
To get a sense of how the Platina 110 ABS performs in daily use, we spoke to several owners.
Rajesh Kumar, a 35-year-old office worker from Pune, shares, “I’ve been riding the Platina 110 ABS for six months now, and it’s been a game-changer for my daily commute.
The comfort is unmatched, and the fuel efficiency is incredible. I’m averaging around 68 km/l in city traffic.”
Priya Sharma, a college student from Delhi, appreciates the safety features: “As a new rider, the ABS gives me a lot of confidence. I’ve had a couple of close calls in heavy traffic, and the brakes have always responded predictably.”
However, not all feedback is uniformly positive. Amit Patel, an experienced rider from Mumbai, notes, “While the overall package is excellent for city use, I wish it had a bit more power for highway rides. But then again, that’s not really what this bike is designed for.”
Ownership Experience: More Than Just a Motorcycle
Owning a Platina 110 ABS goes beyond the riding experience. Bajaj’s extensive service network ensures that maintenance and repairs are hassle-free.
The company offers a standard 5-year warranty on the Platina 110 ABS, demonstrating confidence in the product’s reliability.
Scheduled service intervals are set at every 5,000 km or 3 months, whichever comes first. Many owners report that service costs are reasonable, typically ranging from ₹500 to ₹1,000 for regular maintenance.
The Platina’s reputation for reliability means that spare parts are widely available and affordable. This, combined with the excellent fuel efficiency, results in a very low cost of ownership – a crucial factor for many buyers in this segment.
Market Positioning and Competition
The Bajaj Platina 110 ABS enters a highly competitive segment, going up against established players like the Honda CD 110 Dream, TVS Radeon, and Hero Splendor iSmart.
However, it carves out a unique position for itself by offering ABS at a price point where most competitors are still offering only CBS.
Priced at ₹72,224 (ex-showroom, Delhi), the Platina 110 ABS is positioned as a premium offering within the entry-level commuter segment.
While it may be priced slightly higher than some of its competitors, the addition of ABS and the overall feature set make it a compelling value proposition.
Environmental Considerations
While not an electric vehicle, the Platina 110 ABS does its part for the environment through its excellent fuel efficiency.
Lower fuel consumption translates to reduced emissions, making it a relatively eco-friendly choice in the internal combustion engine category.
Bajaj has also made efforts to use more recyclable materials in the Platina’s construction, aligning with global trends towards more sustainable manufacturing practices.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Commuter Motorcycles
The Platina 110 ABS represents an important step in the evolution of entry-level commuter motorcycles in India. By bringing advanced safety features like ABS to this price-sensitive segment, Bajaj is setting a new standard that other manufacturers will likely follow.
Industry experts speculate that future iterations of the Platina might see the introduction of more advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity or even mild hybrid technology to further improve fuel efficiency.
There are also rumors of an electric version in development, though Bajaj has not officially confirmed these plans.
Bajaj Platina 110 ABS : Raising the Bar for Commuter Motorcycles
The Bajaj Platina 110 ABS is more than just an updated version of a popular model. It represents a significant leap forward in what riders can expect from an entry-level commuter motorcycle.
By combining class-leading comfort, excellent fuel efficiency, and advanced safety features, Bajaj has created a product that addresses the core needs of its target audience while also pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in this segment.
For the daily commuter looking for a reliable, comfortable, and safe motorcycle that won’t break the bank, the Platina 110 ABS presents a compelling case.
It’s not just a mode of transport; it’s a statement that even budget-friendly motorcycles can offer premium features and a quality riding experience.
As India’s automotive landscape continues to evolve, with increasing focus on safety and efficiency, the Platina 110 ABS stands as a benchmark for what entry-level motorcycles can and should offer.
It’s a testament to Bajaj’s understanding of the Indian market and a bold step towards a future where safety features like ABS are the norm rather than the exception in the commuter segment.
In the end, the Bajaj Platina 110 ABS isn’t just about getting from point A to point B. It’s about doing so with comfort, efficiency, and most importantly, safety. And in that respect, it’s not just meeting expectations – it’s redefining them.