Norton is planning to launch a more affordable motorcycle, likely named Commando Cub.
Norton has stated that they are developing a sub-500cc motorcycle for India and other Asian markets. The British company which has ties with the Kinetic Group in India, retails their bikes through the multi-brand Motoroyale showrooms here. Recently, the bike maker opened their 7th showroom in Navi Mumbai. The company plans to continue expanding their network and target to have a total of 10 dealerships by the end of 2019.
The bike is speculated to be called ‘Commando Cub’ will be completely made in India to keep the cost low. The bike will retail at a very attractive price for a Norton and is expected to bring in a lot of new customers to the brand. The sub-500cc motorcycle is scheduled to arrive in 2021.
When it comes to styling, the Norton Commando Cub is expected to follow its older brothers like the Commando 961 California and the Commando 961 Sport MK II and have a classic British styling. The exact engine specifications of the retro bike are yet unknown but the company has stated that it will employ an engine between 350-500cc of capacity. An engine just below the 500cc mark will make it slot perfectly below the Atlas range of bikes from the company.
The premium 500cc segment that the company is targeting to enter is currently very spartan and is solely occupied by the Benelli Leoncino 500. By the time the Commando Cub arrives in the market, the Bajaj-built Triumph premium offering could also possibly be breathing down the Norton’s neck. It is to be noted that it is still unclear if Triumph will also be targeting the same segment. Norton is expecting to sell 25,000 units every year in India and other Asian markets.
Meanwhile, Norton will launch the 650 Atlas by March 2020 which will feature 50% localisation, resulting in a sub Rs. 10 lakh price tag. The Norton 650 Atlas is yet to go on sale globally.
Norton Commando Cub
– The engine will be between 350-500cc
– The bike is expected to arrive by 2021
– Will be the company’s ‘affordable’ offering for emerging markets
– Would feature a retro themed styling
Source – AutocarIndia.com