Name: Bal Nanda
Age : 46
Profession : Self Employed
Motorcycling Club: Brotherhood Riding Club
Q-1 When did you first throw your legs over a bike? Which one was it?
When i was 17 years old. It was a Yezdi Roadking
Q-2 Describe the experience
It was my first bike and I was very proud to own it. Looking back I think I was a bit of a show -off back then.
Q-3 Who taught you the basics of biking?
My elder brother. He was the one who had bought my first bike for me..
Q-4 How many bikes have you been through so far?
About six to seven bikes starting with Yezdi, Yezdi Roadking, Gtx, Royal Enfield, Yamaha Rx350 and HD XR1200X
Q-5 How many of them are currently with you?
Just the XR.
Q-6 Was the XR a product of long time research or love at first sight?
Definitely love at first sight. I was looking for a black matt racing stealth type of a bike with a sound of Harley Davidson. Its a bundle of joy. It gives you a fair taste of both a racing bike as well as a touring bike.It is a good melange of both the flavours.
Q-7 Were there any other bikes that you were also considering?
The Night Rod Special
Q-8 What do feel is the best feature of it?
Its Appearance is what caught my eye immediately. It is very muscular and sexy. In fact, when I saw it first in HD Bangkok. I immediately fell in love with it.
Q-9 Do feel there is any aspect where Harley could have improved upon?
Better Pricing and more variety. HD should also consider offering a larger variety for custom modification at a modest pricing.
Q-10 What all modifications have you done so far? Have they been effective?
My bike's exhausts , filter and fuel pack have been changed. After the change its on a different level. Its got more grunt, power and resounding sound. This stage has given me extra 8 to 9 BHP!!! :-)
Q-11 What all questions does the public have when they see you with the bike?
Most of them want to know the price and the power it has.
Q- 12 How have your experience been with the dealership?
Some isusses are there in terms of spare parts, but overall its great.
Q-13 Have you faced any mechanical/technical issues so far?
None.
Q-14 Would the XR make a good daily use superbike?
I would say yes. I've been riding everyday to the gym. Its a good daily bike with a subtle yet stealth style and power. Another good thing about XR is that you ride it, it does not ride you unlike a few other powerful Japanese machines.
Q-15 What fuel and oil do you use?
For 18 months I was using 97 octane. But now I ve switched to 93 or speed depending on availability.The oil is taken care by HD service dpt.
Q-16 How many Kilometers have you covered so far?
Almost 15k.
Q-17 Who maintains the bike?
Me. Moi. Myself.
Q-18 What are the maximum figures you have seen on the speedo?
197km/hr
Q-19 Tell us a little about your riding gear?
I have got 1 Harley Leather Jacket, 1 Fox Racing body armour, 1 Nerve jacket and recently I got the New model of the Fox Racing Leather Jacket. 1 Arai and 1 Masei helmets. 4 pairs of gloves (including a set of Icon waterproof all weather gloves) . Alpinestars riding boots and many more accessories from HD.
Q-20 What advice do have for young enthusiasts who are looking to enter the world of superbiking?
Please do not ask your folks to buy you one. You should be minimum of 24 years old to ride. Buy one for yourself with your own money, be a mature and responisble rider. Riding a super bike is not a joke. Its fun but serious business WITH A GREAT AMOUNT OF RESPONSIBILTY!! Remember always to play safe!! With the bike and yourself!
