Boxer motorcycle for Ghanaian market

Somoco, a subsidiary of the Mohanani Group, has partnered an Indian motorbike manufacturing company to introduce Boxer motorcycles onto the Ghanaian market.

Bajaj Auto Limited, the company, intends to initially target the utility and commuter segment of the population through its flagship brand.

Speaking at the launch of the motorbike in Accra, the Senior Vice President of Bajaj Auto, Mr Krishna Grihapathy, said motorbike demand had grown rapidly in the last few years due to the growing middle class, adding that “the company aims to be the market leader in three to five years.”

Ghana’s motorbike market is estimated to be about 100,000 units per annum.

The motorbike

Mr Grihapathy said the environmentally friendly motorbike came in two variants — the 100 CC version and the powerful 150 CC version.

He expressed confidence that the brand would appeal to customers through its primary qualities which included reliability, ruggedness and timely service, leading to longer life of the motorbike.

He mentioned that the product was currently being sold in Accra, Tamale and Kumasi, adding that by 2014, it would establish its sales and service outlets in over 30 towns in the country.

He, therefore, encouraged Ghanaians to purchase the motorbikes but cautioned riders to ride safely on the road and adhere to road signs and traffic regulations.

Transport minister

Launching the motorbikes, the Deputy Minister for Transport, Ms Joyce Mogtari, lauded the company for its decision to operate in Ghana.

She said their move symbolised the long standing relationship between Ghana and India which had over the years been of mutual benefit for the two countries.

By Zainabu Issah/Daily Graphic/Ghana