Hero RNT Puts Diesel Power In Small Bike

By Bud Wilkinson

From one extreme to the other…

It was a week ago that images of the Lotus-branded C-01 motorcycle were released. The limited edition model packs 200-horsepower into a titanium, steel and carbon fiber superbike that styling-wise is worthy of placement in a museum, and the story generated quite a bit of reaction.

At the other end of the motorcycle spectrum is a new concept from Indian manufacturer Hero dubbed the RNT. It’s a single-cylinder, 150cc diesel bike that boasts 13.5 horsepower.
Yes, a diesel, with an optional turbocharger.

Hero RNT with HERO CEO Pawan Munjal

The RNT has a claimed top speed of 70 kilometers per hour (43.5 mph) and can do 0-60 kilometers per hour (37 mph) in five seconds. It weighs in at 300 pounds and the tank holds 1.6 gallons of fuel.

Hero says another option is “a hub electric motor in the front wheel, which is powered by an electric battery pack, to give the rider a unique two-wheel drive option for the toughest world conditions and also the possibility to shut off the rear drive and move to the city on electric power front-wheel-drive only.”

The utilitarian RNT features loads of places for carrying cargo and Hero envisions it as being a work vehicle in rural areas and possible commuter transportation in an urban environment. The RNT is expected to be exported. Here’s a video showing the RNT:

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Bultaco Motorcycles in Craryville, NY has posted a notice for its annual open house. The event will be staged from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 22. Not only will tthe shop be open, but so will the nearby museum that is filled with Spanish motorcycles.