Austrian motorcycle maker KTM, co-owned by Bajaj Auto, launched its first motorcycle for India, Duke 200, in 2012. The rev-happy naked motorcycle has gone well with the customers and the company eventually launch its elder sibling 390 Duke that was followed by fully-faired motorcycles, the RC 200 and RC 390. The huge success of Duke models also prompted the company to add 250 Duke as part of the refreshed model range in February 2017. However, emerging reports say KTM is not planning for bigger Duke models in India.
Also read: KTM 390 Adventure based on new 390 Duke confirmed; will be manufactured in India
KTM unveiled 790 Duke prototype at the EICMA show in Milan 2016. This model was touted to be the next Duke model to India with rumours buzzing around that the production would take place at Bajaj Auto's Pune plant in line with smaller Duke models. Multiple reports now claim that KTM has decided to make the production spec 790 Duke in its home country. Though the reason for the shift has not been said, the move is to ease off pressure on Bajaj's busy Chakan plant, reports Rushlane. It will also help KTM to offer a superior quality product without price concerns in Europe, which is the primary market.
KTM India is yet to make a comment on the development. If the report is anything to go by, the 390 Duke will remain the flagship model of the KTM brand in India. The 390 Duke is powered by 373.2cc, single-cylinder engine that develops 43bhp of power and it has been priced at Rs. 2.25 lakh ex-showroom Delhi.
KTM India will be focusing on the next generation of RC 390 and RC 200 which is under development. The debut of the motorcycles is expected at the 2017 EICMA show in November. The most awaited new bike from KTM will be the adventure bike based on the new 390 Duke. The model has been confirmed for India by KTM officials and it will go up against BMW G 310 GS adventure tourer due for India by the end of 2017 and also Royal Enfield Himalayan.
Source: Rushlane
