More stories

  • in

    KTM India Sales Decline, Exports Grow In Feb 2021 – Duke, RC, ADV

    File photo. Credit – Indori MotoroidsKTM motorcycles in India are manufactured in Bajaj Auto’s Chakan-based facility near Pune in Maharashtra
    KTM sales have been growing exponentially over the last few years, both in terms of YoY and MoM. However, that wasn’t the case in February 2021 when sales were down, especially in domestic sales. This could primarily be attributed to production delays which were caused due to constraints in unavailability of components and also due to fall in demand.
    Domestic Sales
    The brand has been one of the leading premium bike sellers in the country in recent times. In February 2021, the Austrian bikemaker sold a total of 5,394 units in comparison to 6,470 bikes sold in February 2020 and 6,777 bikes sold in January this year. This led to a decline in YoY as well as MoM sales by 16.63 percent and 20.41 percent.
    KTM 200, 390 & 250 suffer degrowth
    In the domestic market, 200 Duke was the most popular motorcycle from KTM in India with sales of 2,431 units last month. In comparison, the manufacturer retailed 2,900 units in February last year and 2,979 units in January this year. This resulted in YoY and MoM decline of 16.17 percent and 18.40 percent.
    The company’s entry-level product Duke 125 came in next with a total sales volume of 2,200 units against last year’s February sales of 1,476 units which led to YoY growth of 49.05 percent. The figures stood at 2,516 units in January 2021 which meant an MoM decline of 12.56 percent.
    KTM India Domestic Sales Feb 2021
    However, the most disappointing of them all was the 390 series which recorded sales of only 451 units in February this year despite it having the most number of offerings. KTM sells three models in this space- 390 Duke, RC 390 and 390 Adventure. A YoY and MoM growth of 70.03 percent and 47.03 percent respectively were recorded last month.
    KTM sells two models under the 250 Series- namely 250 Duke and 250 Adventure which combined to raked in a sales volume of 312 units. The figures in February 2020 and January 2021 stood at 589 units and 560 units respectively. This resulted in a decline in YoY and MoM sales by 47.03 percent and 44.29 percent.
    Export Figures
    Things were slightly better in terms of exports as the Austrian bikemaker shipped 8,153 bikes to overseas markets last month. In comparison, the company dispatched 5,387 units and 6,814 units to overseas countries in February 2020 and January 2021. Thus it led to YoY and MoM growth of 51.35 percent and 19.65 percent.
    KTM India Exports Feb 2021
    Out of all models, the 390 series was the highest-selling with cumulative sales of 3,034 units against 3,536 units and 3,354 units shipped in February 2020 and January this year. KTM 390 was closely trailed by KTM 200 with a total shipment of 2,982 units and recorded impressive YoY and MoM growths of 304 percent and 141.65 percent. 125 Duke and the 250 series recorded YoY growth of 40.12 percent and 251.65 percent respectively. More

  • in

    2021 KTM RC 125 Side View Spied – Pillion Seat Higher Than R15 V3?

    2021 KTM RC 125 / RC 200. Image – ChinmayKTM will launch a completely revamped RC lineup in India which includes RC 125, RC 200 and RC 390 sometime during the course of this year
    KTM had commenced trial production of the next generation RC 200 at the end of last year. We expected the updated faired motorcycle to make its debut by the first quarter of this year. However, there are no signs of the motorcycle as of now.
    Although, on a couple of instances, the new RC 200 has been spotted testing on Indian roads in recent months which suggests that the motorcycle is still in its developmental phase. Another set of spy shots of the upcoming faired sports bike has emerged online where a test mule is seen conducting pre-launch tests.
    RC 200 Revised Styling
    Even though the prototype was wrapped under heavy camouflage, we could notice certain design aspects which had been taken over from RC 390. One thing is for sure, that the upcoming RC range will wear a completely different top hot compared to its predecessor.
    The biggest variation noticed is the single-piece headlamp as opposed to a twin-pod headlamp cluster. The halogen unit is flanked by a similar LED DRL strip on its borders. In addition, it also gets a taller windscreen and new LED turn indicators which are integrated onto the wing mirrors.
    2021 KTM RC 125 / RC 200. Image – Chinmay
    The revised windscreen has been designed not only to provide better protection from the wind but also to enhance its aerodynamic properties. The new split seating setup is certainly not as attractive as the previous model but looks more convenient and hopefully more convenient.
    The spy shots indicate a more compliant riding position which includes handlebars fitted closer to the rider and center set footpegs that offer an upright riding stance. Other notable changes witnessed are redesigned 5-spoke alloy wheels finished in Electric Orange, slimmer fairing and proper split grab rails. Pillion seat has been raised significantly.
    New Features
    In addition to all the updates mentioned above, the upcoming RC 125 / 200 also gets a new underbelly exhaust setup and a new rear subframe. Previous spy pics also revealed that the bike will get new body graphics and decals that will accentuate its sporty appeal. The latest spy pics also reveal a new and larger TFT digital instrument console which is expected to feature smartphone connectivity via Bluetooth.
    2021 KTM RC 125 / RC 200. Image – Chinmay
    RC 200 Updated Design
    Not only RC 200 but the Austrian bikemaker is looking to completely overhaul its entire RC lineup in India including RS 125 and RC 390. Latest spy shots of RC 390 also suggest a completely revamped design. The new generation faired sports bike also features a heavily redesigned front end with dual projector headlamps being replaced by a single headlamp unit. However, unlike its smaller sibling, it gets a full LED lighting setup.
    Like RC 200, front fairing of RC 390 also looks revised which gives it a sharper look and improved aerodynamic efficiency. The shape of the fuel tank has been altered too which also seems to have improved rider ergonomics. The split seat setup of RC 390 is uncannily similar to its smaller sibling although the pillion seat still looks very inaccessible for its height. RC 125, on the other hand, is likely to wear a similar look to RC 200 which would feature a compact fairing.
    2021 KTM RC 125 / RC 200. Image – Chinmay
    Updated RC Lineup Powertrain
    As far as performance is concerned, all three motorcycles are expected to carry forward their respective powertrains. RC 125 will be powered by a 125cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine which pushes out 14.5 bhp and 12 Nm of peak torque. RC 200 will draw its power from a 199.5cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that pumps out 24.6 bhp and 19.2 Nm of torque.
    And finally, RC 390 would derive its energy from the same 373cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled motor that churns out 44 bhp and 35 Nm of torque. While RC 125’s motor is likely to be paired with a 5-speed transmission, the other two are expected to be offered with a 6-speed gearbox. All three bikes will be built on a Trellis frame suspended on USD WP forks at front and a mono-shock unit at rear. More

  • in

    2021 KTM RC 390 Spied Testing In India – Launch This Year

    2021 KTM RC390 Test Mule In India
    2021 KTM RC 390 features a revised bolt-on rear sub-frame, new front disc rotor and completely redesigned fairing panels
    2021 KTM RC 390 has been spotted for the first time in India as the fully faired motorcycle inches closer to its world premiere. Likely to be introduced first in India before being exported to international markets, the new generation RC 390 features extensive styling and mechanical changes.
    2021 KTM RC 390 – What we know so far?
    Second iteration of the Austrian brand’s compact supersports motorcycle family features a redesigned fairing which is edgier and leaner than before. The front fascia gets away with the beaky twin projector headlamp in favour of a shield-like full LED unit which is vertically bifurcated by a heat sink.
    The new headlamp design is an integral part of KTM’s current design identity and it is obvious that the rest of the fairing panels are designed around it. Also, the side panels are less concealing than before and sport vents to enhance cooling performance.
    2021 KTM RC 390 also benefits from a new bolt-on rear sub-frame which is designed to make taller riders more comfortable than before. Tailpiece has been revised subtly, exhaust canister and alloy wheels look new as well. The prototype features a plain black paint job but expect the production version of sport snazzy multi-colour liveries.
    2021 KTM RC390 In Europe. Image – Motorrad
    Specs at a glance
    New KTM RC family of motorcycles feature new type of front disc rotor which is mounted to the wheel spokes instead of the hub. Brake disc diameter appears to have been increased and this should translate to improved braking performance.
    The motorcycle continues to employ proven WP inverted telescopic front forks and rear monoshock. KTM may opt to employ MRF tyres on India-spec model just like it did with the Duke. Indian government’s restriction on import of tyres may have something to do with that.
    The familiar and immensely popular 373 cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled motor is most likely to be retained as it is. With 44 hp and 35 Nm of torque, 2021 KTM RC 390 would still me the most powerful motorcycle in its class. The 6-speed transmission with slipper and assist clutch will be retained as well.
    Equipment
    In addition to full LED headlamp, 2021 KTM RC 390 will be equipped with the colour TFT instrument display which is found on the 390 Duke. Dual-channel ABS will be a standard fitment.
    New KTM RC 390 will be made at Bajaj Auto’s Chakan plant for the entire world, just like its 125 and 200 siblings. Expect to world premiere to take place sometime in mid-2021, post which it will be launched in India. The current model retails at INR 2.6 lakh (ex-showroom) and expect its successor to be marginally more expensive. Competition will come from the TVS Apache RR 310, Kawasaki Ninja 300 and so on.
    Source More

  • in

    2021 KTM RC 125 / 200 New Gen Motorcycle Spied – Revised Front Look

    Image – Varun Painter
    After getting spied for the first time on the road last week, the new KTM RC has been spied again
    India launch of the new 2021 KTM RC 200 and RC 125 is slated for later this year. Test mules in pre-production format have been spied on test since early September in Europe. Now, the test mules have started getting spotted on Indian roads. The latest spy shot of the new gen KTM RC test mule was shared by Varun Painter.
    The 2021 KTM RC range is expected to receive several updates to justify this price hike. For starters, it will do away with the twin pod headlamp cluster and get new fairing with halogen lighting in its stead.
    The updated RC motorcycles will also receive DRLs and integrated indicators. Revised fairing will also be a part of the update while design changes to the rear will include an LED unit.
    More Comfortable Ride Position?
    The rider of the new KTM RC range of motorcycles is likely to be assured of a more comfortable ride. The upcoming model is expected to get a well cushioned seat, handlebars fitted closer to the rider for more comfort and foot pegs thus positioned for a more upright stance so as to enable better touring. The bike will also get a larger windscreen for better aerodynamics and to offer better wind protection to the rider.
    2021 KTM RC 200
    The new KTM RC 200 / 125 will also sport new body graphics in a black and orange colour scheme and a revised instrument cluster (could be same as the one seen on new gen 390 Duke and 390 ADV). It will come with smartphone connectivity via Bluetooth.
    BS6 Engine Specs
    The current KTM RC200 is powered by a 199.5cc, single cylinder, liquid cooled engine delivering about 25 hp power at 10,000 rpm and 19.2 Nm torque at 8,000 rpm. This is the same engine which will power the 2021 KTM RC200, with minor tuning. The engine will come mated to a 6 speed sequential gearbox, with slipper clutch as standard.
    Considering these updates, the 2021 KTM RC200 could be priced higher than the current model by about Rs.10-20k. Once launched, KTM will also bring in updated versions of the RC 125, RC 250 and RC 390 as well.
    New KTM Duke RCs planned for the year ahead also include the RC 390 which would get updated parts and reworked styling along with new LED headlights and TFT display. These updates will position the RC390 as a more premium offering than it is today.
    Source More

  • in

    2021 KTM RC 200, 125 Spied Testing In India For First Time – New Gen

    2021 KTM RC 200 / 125 Spied in India – New Gen
    The 2020 KTM RC 200 and its family members will feature revised rear sub-frame and new fairing panels

    The next generation KTM RC family of compact fully faired sportsbikes have been in the news for quite sometime now. The RC 125, 200 and 390 are much older than their Duke siblings but that is going to chance soon.
    A camouflaged prototype of what appears to be either 2021 KTM RC 200 or 125 has been spied testing in India for the first time. Images are credit to Wheel Tronicz on Instagram.
    2021 KTM RC 200 / 125 Spied in India – New Gen
    2021 KTM RC 200 – New styling
    We think this prototype is either an RC 200 or 125 because the RC 390 prototypes which were spotted testing in Europe featured a conventional side slung exhaust canister to meet the stringent emission norms. This particular mule continues to employ underbelly exhaust indicating that a smaller displacement motor does not need larger catalytic converter and hence can manage with an underbelly unit.
    As with the new KTM RC 390, the smaller engined siblings will feature a completely overhauled styling. The new headlamp is in-line with the brand’s new design identity and the fairing around it has a slightly larger surface area than before.
    2021 KTM RC 200 / 125 Spied in India – New Gen
    On the sides, the panels are more revealing than before. For example, the current motorcycle hides the base of the crank case but the upcoming model makes no attempt at concealing it.
    The bodywork is sharper than before but there is an awkward gap between the steering mount and the instrument console which may take a bit of getting used too. Another important change is the rear sub-frame but the tailpiece appears to be retained without significant styling changes. KTM has reportedly worked on making the 2021 RC family more comfortable for taller riders, so expect considerable change in ergonomics.
    Specifications at a glance
    The New Gen KTM RC 200, or the 125 and 390 for that matter, is likely to retain the engine without any change. In case of the RC 200, the existing 199.5 cc liquid-cooled mill dishes out a healthy 25 hp and 19.2 Nm of torque. Transmission is a 6-speed unit. Despite no changes, the motor will still be the most powerful unit in its segment.
    2021 KTM RC 200 / 125 Spied in India – New Gen
    The trellis frame will continue to employ WP inverted telescopic front fork and rear monoshock suspension system. The 2021 KTM RC 200 and its brethren adopt new front disc brake whose rotor is mounted to the spokes rather than the wheel hub. The India-spec RC 200 is expected to carry forward a single-channel ABS to keep the costs in check while the export-spec variant is likely to offer dual-channel system as a standard fitment.
    The 2021 KTM RC 200, 390 and 125 will be made in India at Bajaj Auto’s Chakan facility for global consumption. India is expected to be the launch market for the new generation family of compact sportsbikes. Launch is expected sometime later this year. More

  • in

    KTM 390 Custom Motorcycle By Rajputana Is Ready For Track

    KTM 390 Kush by Rajputana Customs
    The KTM 390 Kush custom motorcycle receives aftermarket Brembo brake kit, new fuel tank, a rear sub-frame and slick tyres

    Rajputana Customs is known for some of the most tasteful custom motorcycles ever to have come from India. From Triumphs to Harley Davidsons to Royal Enfields, the Jaipur-based outfit has come up with some beautiful projects both independently and in collaboration with the OEMs. Latest bespoke motorcycle to get the Rajputana treatment is a KTM 390 which goes by the name Kush.
    KTM 390 Kush
    Commissioned by one Kush Bhansali, the KTM 390 Kush custom motorcycle hardly has any visual relationship with the donor motorcycle in a typical Rajputana fashion. The most significant visual feature of the custom KTM 390 is its new muscular fuel tank in a unique brown paint job. The pronounced knee indents with black plastic padding add to the sporty appeal.
    While the motorcycle retains the trellis frame which is now painted in grey instead of the flashy, Rajputana customs has equipped it with a completely bespoke rear sub-frame which appears to be made of machined aluminium.
    It also doubles up as a tailpiece and accommodates a thin saddle and custom LED taillight. A shield like panel at the front houses eccentrically placed LED headlight elements. An edgy engine cowl round off the minimal bodywork.
    KTM 390 Kush by Rajputana Customs
    Salient features
    While technical details are not available, one look is all you need to know that this motorcycle has no intentions of being road legal. The motorcycle eschews turn indicators and is equipped with slick track spec tyres.
    The aggressive clip-on handlebars and rear-set foot pegs makes for a sporty riding posture. The KTM 390 comes factory fitted with top-shelf WP suspension system which the custom motorcycle builders opted not to fiddle with but the 17-inch wheels were ditched in favor of custom spoke units.
    While the front and rear brake discs appear to have been carried forward, the master cylinder and circuit have been upgraded to aftermarket Brembo kit. The dual-channel ABS system seems to be retained. Like any other quintessential Rajputana mod, the KTM 390 Kush sports bespoke exhaust pipe with a golden tipped sleek black canister.
    KTM 390 Kush by Rajputana Customs
    Engine
    There are no obvious evidence of any engine related modifications but that is not surprising. The stock 373.2 cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder motor with its 44 hp and Nm of torque already has ample performance to boot. The custom motorcycle is devoid of several components of the stock bike, making it lightweight. So, even without any performance enhancement, the Kush should be peppier than the stock motorcycle.
    Pricing details of the modification are not available but given the extent of changes and new components, we estimate the project to have costed over INR 1 lakh. It would have taken quite a few weeks to execute.

    Image Source More

  • in

    KTM Plans To Launch GasGas Enduro Motorcycles In India

    GasGas EC250F
    With is new street-legal lineup, KTM’s subsidiary would be aiming to cater to India’s under served off-road motorcycle segment

    Riding on a strong global sales performance in the recent years, KTM went on an acquisition spree in a bid to consolidate its position as Europe’s largest motorcycle brand. After bringing the Swedish Husqvarna brand into its umbrella and successfully widening its scope, the Austrian brand went ahead and acquired Spanish off-road specialist GasGas in 2019. We have learnt that KTM is gearing up to introduce GasGas in India later this year.
    GasGas enduro motorcycle coming to India
    GasGas specializes primarily in medium displacement and pure electric off-road motorcycles but with access to KTM’s well established road-legal platforms, the brand is preparing to foray into new volume-rich segments. International media reports speculate that GasGas is currently working on as many as 3 street motorcycles which are mostly likely to adopt enduro and/or adventure tourer body styles.
    While two of them are expected to be based on KTM’s 790 Duke platform, the entry level model is most likely to be a 250 cc model based on India-made Duke’s platform. So, we believe this quarter liter enduro is going to be the first GasGas to be introduced in our market.
    While the critical components of this platform are already heavily localized in India, some parts including the bodywork are likely to be imported. We expect the GasGas to have a relatively low volume run compared to its KTM and Husqvarna siblings.
    GasGas EC250F
    GasGas 250 motorcycle
    GasGas already has a 250 cc hardcore, track-focused off-roader in its international portfolio in the form of EC250F which retails at 9,700 euros (over INR 8.5 lakh) but we don’t it is a viable product for India. The brand’s new range of street motorcycles are still under wraps and India is likely to be the launch market for one of them.
    The enduro segment in India is heavily under served as of now. The Hero Impulse 200 is the closest one could get to a compact displacement enduro motorcycle in India but it still not serious enough to appeal to hardcore off-road enthusiasts.
    The upcoming GasGas motorcycle based on KTM platform would be aiming to address this niche. With WP suspension setup, high ground clearance, off-road tyres, spoke wheels and lightweight body, the motorcycle is expected to have an entirely different character compared to its platform-mates.
    Launch timeline
    If things progress as per schedule, the new street-legal GasGas enduro motorcycle should be launched in India sometime later this year. In fact the imported kits for the motorcycle have already reached India. GasGas products will be retailed through well established KTM dealership network in the country. We expect the pricing to be on the premium end and dearer than the existing KTM 250 products. More

  • in

    2021 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R Detailed In Official Video

    2021 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R
    Priced at £15,999 (equivalent to INR 16.39 lakh), KTM 1290 Super Adventure R gets revised styling and a new powerplant

    KTM is known to possess a wide array of motorcycles under its portfolio which makes it an ideal brand to look out for if one is a true biking enthusiast. Among all the segments, we feel that adventure motorcycles are its forte since it has a long list of derivatives and configurations plus the fact that they are easily customisable.
    The Austrian bikemaker has now revealed the latest avatar of the meanest and the baddest adventure tourers under its roof. The brand has given its flagship 1290 Super Adventure R a significant makeover for 2021. Recently, its sibling Super Adventure S made its debut with which it shares a lot of mechanicals.
    Revised Styling
    To start with its styling, 1290 Super Adventure R looks nothing like its other adventure tourer siblings from KTM. it wears a heavily revised bodywork and it isn’t just for show. The new panel improves ergonomics when the rider decides to trot on to some broken paths.
    In fact, the colour scheme with respect to other KTM models is rather funky. Flashes of orange have been retained in the frame and external crashes while panels have been sprayed predominantly with blue and white that resemble the brand’s machines seen in the Dakar Rally.
    [embedded content]
    The bike’s frontal area is reduced which makes it slimmer than before, thus making it easier for handling on tougher undulated terrains. More noticeably it misses out on a traditional beak which most contemporary ADVs get.
    It boasts a shorter, rally-inspired adjustable windscreen along with a high-strength tapered aluminium handlebar. It gets an all-new single-piece stepped-up seat but at 880mm, it is one heck of a climb even for taller riders even though it is down by 10mm.
    Mechanical Specifications
    Underneath that skin, it features a new Euro 5-compliant 1301ccc LC8 V-twin liquid-cooled engine which kicks out 160 bhp and 138 Nm of peak torque. It is paired to a 6-speed gearbox with a hydraulically actuated slipper clutch.
    2021 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R
    Also by shredding around 1.6 kg, which has been achieved by employing new crankcases, this bike now gets a stronger power to weight ratio. This motor has also received an updated cooling system and fresh coatings in its latest update.
    The hardware setup is equally impressive for adventure trails. The Harley Davidson Pan America-rival is built on a Chromium-Molybdenum Steel trellis frame with an aluminium subframe suspended on a fully adjustable WP XPLOR 48mm fork at front and a WP XPLOR shock absorber at rear with both units having a travel of 220mm. It rides on 21-inch rear and 18-inch rear wrapped around by Bridgestone tubeless tyres. Stopping power comes from 4-piston and 2-piston Brembo callipers at front and rear respectively.
    Features & Electronic Aids
    Being a flagship, the ergonomics and mechanicals are complemented by loads of electronics that assist the rider. These include a 6-axis IMU, motor slip regulation, a quick shifter, off-road ABS, traction control and stability control. It gets four standard riding modes including Rain, Street, Sport, and Offroad and an additional Rally mode as an option. Other notable features include a 7-inch TFT instrument display which is compatible with KTM My Ride connectivity app. More