KTM has hit the bull’s eye once again by launching the RC 200 and RC 390 at mouth watering prices. Albeit introductory, the Austrian manufacturer is going to witness huge lines outside showrooms starting from tomorrow. On the sidelines of the launch of the new supersport models, KTM boss Stefan Pierer talked about introducing high capacity motorcycles from the Austrian manufacturer and will first bring the bigger Adventure series motorcycles in the country in the near future. However, bringing the bigger Adventure bikes will not be happening immediately.
KTM plans to bring the high-capacity motorcycles via the Completely Knocked down (CKD) route and is currently working to understand the tax structure, which works out to be very high on non-locally manufactured motorcycles. Being one of the torch bearers in the off-road segment of motorcycles, Stefan said that KTM is looking to first launch a high capacity Adventure bike via the CKD route and will also enter the Motocross and Enduro segments that will be brought in from Austria. He further added that the upcoming Adventure 1050, scheduled to make its global debut at the EICMA in November this year has a possibility of being launched in the country.
Talking about high-capacity bikes like the Super Duke 1290, KTM stated that the model does not have an immediate launch on the cards as the current road conditions in India will not allow riders to explore the bike’s full potential in the county. Thus, while we could see the Super Duke come to India in the long term, a launch anytime soon is not a possibility. The Duke 690 on the other hand is not planned for India either as there is a new model with a two-cylinder motor under development that will take its place.
Launching of Adventure bikes which Mr. Pierer referred to as ‘Pure KTM’ will help the company build its brand image in the highly competitive Indian 2-wheeler market. KTM’s Adventure bikes were spotted on test in Pune last year and was the Adventure 1190. The Adventure bikes will be assembled at Bajaj Auto’s Chakan plant and will be sold across the 140 KTM dealerships across our country. KTM will further expand its network and plans to maintain its lead in the premium motorcycle space.
