Immobilizers, alarm, low rising clip-on handlebars and a digital gauage without the over use of garish chrome make this an appealing package. That race-style faux riveted fuel cap is an added design plus. Photo: Tasdid Chowdhury

Bikes offering better mileage and ride comfort are practical for people who spend hours commuting to work negotiating Dhaka traffic everyday. Lower handlebars may have more style but after hours of slouching, you will inevitably end up at the physiotherapist's, draining your wallet to fix the aching lower back. The Haojue Cool 150 we are reviewing here goes above 40 km on a litre of petrol in city traffic. The seat and handlebars are also proportionately placed to allow an upright sitting position so you can use the dilapidated streets of Mouchak with minimal damage to your spine. Its ground clearance is enough to ride over potholes effortlessly, the seat height is lower than most bikes of its class, providing a lower centre of gravity which makes it easier to manoeuvre in the city traffic. Lower centre of gravity facilitates better control, balance and boost confidence of the riders. It also has a nifty anti-theft system which keeps the bike safe.

Needs wider tyre for added cool factor. Photo: Tasdid Chowdhury

During our test drive, we pushed the 150 CC bike to its limits and pulled it from zero to 90 kmph on a one kilometre stretch of road. The bike remained surprisingly smooth and very little of the engine vibrations were felt at high speeds. Since the engine delivers most of its torque at a comparatively low RPM range (3,000 onwards), it accelerates surprisingly well. We are convinced that it reaches 40 kmph faster than most Corollas. Equipped with a front disc and rear drum brake, and weighing 136 kg (curb), it stops quickly, if you know how to apply both brakes simultaneously. However, to avoid hurting some *sensitive* part of your body, you have to brace yourself before braking that hard. But that's the case with most contemporary slant forward bike seats.

Although it seems less bloated than most 150cc bikes, the separate handlebars, angular headlight and tail cowls and aero-style tank flaps lend it a sharp, if not sporty, appearance. The LCD backlit dashboard shows speed, fuel, battery charge and the gear you are in. It also has a red warning light that flickers when it's time to drain the old engine oil.

It is a good bike with decent power and equipment, and should be a good starting point for new riders.

We see resemblance to an older Yamaha Gladiator. And that's not a bad thing at all. Design from the orient is now becoming more fluid and subtle.

Photo: Tasdid Chowdhury

Specs

Price: Taka 1,10,000 without registration, with a special 40,000 taka discount on account of 60 years of Karnaphuli. 10 year engine warranty (for manufacturing defaults). For more details on pricing, servicing and warranty, contact Karnaphuli Industries Limited. 

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