We've just ridden Bajaj's latest 100, the Discover 100M.
The 100M shares Bajaj’s proven, carburetted and DTS-i technology equipped powerplant as earlier experienced on the 100T. It’s a 102cc, four-stroke, single-cylinder and air-cooled engine that comes armed with a 4-valve head, plus corrugated fins for good cooling. Maximum power output is a healthy 9.3bhp at 8000rpm, while peak torque is 0.92kgm at 6000rpm. The new powerplant is refined and smooth . It also feels peppy for a 100cc bike, with good throttle response along with a wide power band, that kicks in strongly with good low end grunt. Top speed is a claimed 95kph. The four-speed gearbox shifts smoothly in an all-up pattern via a heel-and-toe, rubber tipped shift lever. Clutch feel is good, progressive and well weighted.
The 100M is held together by a robust, single downtube, semi dual cradle steel frame, with telescopic fork suspension in front, and dual, gas-charged (Nitrox) shock absorbers bolted onto a rectangular section swingarm at rear. The 100M comes with a 1255mm wheelbase, which is significantly shorter than the 100T. The bike feels compact and a touch smaller than the 100T, also light and nimble thanks to the shorter wheelbase. The 100M steers with quick turn in, and neutral manners going exactly where the rider wants it to. The new M comes with tubed Eurogrip tyres front and rear, these providing decent enough traction at low speed.
For stopping power, Bajaj has provided the Discover 100M drum brakes front and rear, with the option of a 200mm petal type front disc brake. Brake feel is good, our short test ride being on the disc brake equipped bike.
More details coming up soon in the Discover 100M road test report.