KTM to overhaul its motorcycle range by 2017

KTM entered the Indian market with a joint venture with Bajaj Auto back in January 2012, with the Duke 200. Recently, KTM had also launched an updated version on the RC390 with additional feature like stainless steel exhaust, a slipper clutch, an upgraded braking system, and drive by-wire throttle system. Now the manufacturer has announced that they will discontinue the Duke and RC 125, 200 and 390 by the end of 2016 and replace it with a new line-up on a completely new platform by 2017.
 
The new line-up of fresh motorcycles is expected to be manufactured by Bajaj Auto at its plant in Chakan, Pune. KTM, along with producing better performing bikes, also aims to comply with the stringent European emission norms going forward. To strengthen their joint venture, both Bajaj Auto and KTM are in the process of expanding the facility to accommodate the future models and satisfying the ever growing demand for motorcycles.

In a recent interview, KTM CEO Stefan Pierer mentioned the company will be discontinuing the existing range of Duke and RC 125, 200cc and 373cc bikes by the end of 2016 and replace it with a fresh new platform. The new platform will see joint investments from both companies and will not only be completely new in terms of engineering and design but also on a component level, keeping things interesting as more sophisticated equipment will be loaded on the bikes.
 
Hasqvarna, a completely owned subsidiary of KTM, will also see local production in the coming years, contributing to the manufacturer’s new strategy. With this new approach by KTM, expect to see more and more orange bikes zipping in the country like the Super Duke 1290 R and 1290 Super Adventure series.