TVS Zeppelin R Launch Timeline Revealed

It will be the bike manufacturer’s first cruiser 

A ‘Block Your Date’ invite has been sent to us by TVS for July 6, 2022. While the invite does not entail the details of the bike, we have reason to believe that it could be the much anticipated small-capacity cruiser, the TVS Zeppelin R. 

Those with strong memory would recall that the Hosur-based bikemaker had showcased the Zeppelin concept at the Auto Expo 2018 and trademarked the name ‘Zeppelin R’  in November 2020. Here is all that the motorcycle could get.

The concept showcased in 2018 was said to be powered by a 220cc, single-cylinder engine producing 20PS and 18.5Nm. However, a TVS Apache RTR 200 4V-derived engine could make it to the production model, albeit in a 220cc guise. 

What's more interesting is that the concept model also featured a mild-hybrid assist for a bit more oomph and a belt-drive system, both of which TVS is likely to skip to keep the production model’s cost in check. 

Underpinnings of the concept motorcycle include a 41mm USD fork up front and a monoshock at the rear, with petal discs for braking power at both ends. This hardware is likely to make it to the production model as well. The concept motorcycle showcased wire-spoked rims, however, the production model is likely to roll on alloy wheels.

With an expected price tag of Rs 1.6 lakh (ex-showroom), the Zeppelin will directly rival the Bajaj Avenger 220 Cruise and will be a more affordable alternative to the Keeway K-Light 250V.