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Bajaj Auto and KTM Power Sports are developing an all new motorcycle in Pune. The partners are working on a high-capacity motorcycle which could see the light within the next couple of years. KTM and Bajaj are also planing a slew of new products for both the Indian and European markets. These developments are taking place at Bajaj Auto’s R&D center at Akurdi, Pune. Both Bajaj and KTM engineers are working extensively on the upcoming motorcycle, which will feature the second highest capacity engine in India (second only to the Royal Enfields).
This higher capacity Bajaj-KTM motorcycle will feature a 375cc twin-cylinder engine. This would be the first made in India twin-cylinder engine and we estimate it to produce close to 35-38 BHP of power and around 30 Nm of torque. KTM could sell this bike as the Duke 375, while Bajaj could launch a Pulsar 375 using the same engine. At the unveil of the Pulsar 200 NS, Rajiv Bajaj had clearly stated plans of the company to launch a more powerful version of the Pulsar next year.
By the time Bajaj and KTM bring in their more powerful motorcycle, we can expect rivals to unleash their 400cc motorcycles on Indian roads. Honda is rumoured to be developing the CBR400R, while Yamaha too is being cited to develop the R4. But Bajaj Auto’s expertise in cost reduction and aggressive pricing will be hard to match. Looking at the way Bajaj-KTM have priced the Duke 200 in the Indian market, we can expect the twin-cylinder 375cc motorcycle to be priced around Rs. 2.5-3 lakhs.
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Source – Business Standard
