Hero MotoCorp to launch superbikes, ties up with EBR

EBR that produces race-only machines for bikes may just help Hero MotoCorp Ltd. (Formerly Hero Honda Motors Ltd.) to build a powerful range of bikes post its divorce with Honda Motors.

Hero MotoCorp broke up with its long time partner Honda, only to be left without any technology. Now the company knows that technology is the back bone of progress in the motorcycle industry and thus started to scout for partners, at the same time investing heavily in their own R&D.

Now Hero has tied up with Erik Buell Racing (EBR) of the US. But little does anyone know who EBR is!

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What is EBR?

Erik Buell Racing was formed in 2009. It originated way back in 1983, when Erik Buell, a Harley Davidson engineer left the company to start his own motorcycle company. This company was known as Buell.

In a matter of few years, Harley Davidson picked up majority stake and Buell became a subsidiary of Harley. However after the global turmoil, Harley was forced to shut Buell. Erik Buell then started EBR in order to produce race-only machines.

Why EBR?

Hero could have tied up with anyone else, why did it chose EBR? Simple. EBR is not a mass motorcycle company and has plenty of expertise in producing bikes. On the other hand, Hero does not have expertise in developing indigenous bikes of its own but is a mass motorcycle company.

EBR is not cash rich, Hero is. When both come together, they create a win-win situation.

What does EBR make?

EBR currently makes race-only motorcycles. The company currently makes the 1190RR and 1190 RS for private racers. These bikes use a 1190c, V-Twin engine and produce 175 HP of power. Only limited numbers are made and they are based on the Buell 1125R.

How will it help Hero?

EBR will work closely with Hero engineers in helping it develop new bikes. These bikes are already on the initial stages of development. EBR will help in both design and technology. These bikes will be launched only after 2014.

Hero will be able to enter segments which it has not entered before, like the above 250cc segment. Hero could launch a 250cc bike too, which would become the flagship Hero vehicle, sitting above the Karizma ZMR in their portfolio.