BMW Motorrad is all set to introduce a range of new sub-500cc motorcycles in the coming three years. According to Lee Nicholls (BMW Motorrad’s UK head of marketing), the new range of motorcycles would include naked and adventure bikes of 250cc or less. The new range of bikes will be manufactured in India in partnership with TVS Motor Company. India will also act as an export hub for the alliance. The new bikes are primarily intended for developing markets in Asia but will also be sold in the UK.
At present, BMW offers the F650GS entry level adventure bike as the lowest capacity offering in its entire lineup. With the upcoming range, the bike maker will enter the lower displacement segment, which will help them churn out significantly more volumes. UK riders who are restricted to 47 BHP can now have a wider choice with the addition of smaller capacity BMWs just like the smaller Duke series. Official announcements for the new plans between BMW Motorrad and TVS are yet to be made.
BMW Motorrad and TVS together intend to take on the much accomplished Bajaj KTM alliance. With the upcoming sub-500cc offerings, BMW is preparing to challenge KTM directly in India. TVS is known for bikes in the sub-250cc category, while BMW makes bikes in the 600-1600cc category. Both the manufacturers will share their expertise to churn out well-equipped and aggressively priced products. TVS is looking out for advanced technology and oversees market access with the BMW tie-up, while BMW Motorrad is seeking lower manufacturing costs.
Source – VisorDown
