Norton Motorcycle Company has joined hands with Kinetic Engineering Limited for local assembling of its motorcycles in India.
At the ongoing Milan Motor Show in Italy, British manufacturer Norton announced its partnership with India-based Kinetic Engineering Limited to utilise the latter’s manufacturing facility in Ahmednagar, Maharashtra for assembly of Norton motorcycles. The assembled bikes will be exported to other countries and will also be sold in India through Kinetic-owned Motoroyale outlets.
Kinetic had earlier revealed its plans to induct more brands into the premium motorcycling scene through its Motoroyale outlets. Norton Motorcycles started production in 1908 and their military motorcycles were extensively used in the two World Wars. Their current portfolio consists of Commando, Dominator and V4 RR. The first two bikes are powered by a 961cc parallel-twin while the V4 RR gets a bigger 1200cc motor.
Mated to a 5-speed transmission, the fuel-injected 961cc engine produces 80 PS of power and 90 Nm of torque. Cafe racers Commando and Dominator get Brembo braking hardware while suspension setup is sourced from Ohlins. The V4 RR, on the other hand, is a supersport with similar hi-end hardware but is more power-packed at 202.8 PS with a peak torque rating of 130 Nm.
As a result of this joint venture, Norton products are likely to debut in India by the end of next year. However, the company might launch these motorcycles via the CBU route this fiscal year. Other than domestic sales in India, the motorcycles will be exported to Indonesia, Bhutan, Malaysia, Thailand and other markets.
Automaker-turned-component manufacturer Kinetic has received praises for working to introduce premium brands like MV Agusta and SWM in India through Motoroyale dealerships. Currently, the Motoroyale chain has one outlet each in Delhi, Mumbai, Pune and Ahmedabad. The company is planning to expand its network in the near future.
Norton Kinetic Partner
– Norton motorcycles to be produced in Kinetic’s facility under a joint venture
– The V4 RR, Commando and Dominator are motorcycles from Norton
– Kinetic will launch Norton bikes in India in 2018 through Motoroyale dealerships
– Manufactured bikes will also be exported to other markets
