TVS Draken-X21 concept first look review

Two-wheeler manufacturers have been trying to make a mark in the premium 200-300cc segment in India for some time now, with new launches and upgrades rolling out every year. However, TVS, has been holding back in order to not only gauge, but understand the market demands arising owing to this competition. To give us an idea of what TVS has gathered from its observation, the company recently showcased the Draken-X21 concept at the Auto Expo 2014, hinting at the kind of technology and product offerings the bike maker has lined up for the Indian market in the future, including the next generation of Apache RTRs.

 

 

Donning a name that sounds like a fire-breathing dragon, the Draken creates an imagery of a fearless reckoning force. The concept gets streetfighter styling cues portraying TVS' new design philosophy. Its compact front-end design gets a BMW Motorrad touch in its asymmetrical compact headlight, with LED lights and daytime-running lamps. A digital instrument cluster is mounted on a relatively straight handlebar, with premium quality switchgear and bar-end mirrors finished in alloy. The meaty tank gets an off-set fuel filler lid and extended shrouds that cover the liquid-cooler, with a lightly pressed black strip in the centre, flowing down to the single saddle that feels premium and is positioned to provide a sporty stance with a slight lean forward towards the handlebars. The pillion seat is replaced by ducts, positioned behind the rider, and are provided for efficient aerodynamics.