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  • KTM 250 Adventure spied testing in India – Wearing accessories

    The KTM 250 Adventure shares its platform and internals with existing ‘250’ models
    KTM India, under Bajaj Auto, has made a strong statement on the Indian market after launching the 390 Adventure dual-sport motorcycle. It is arguably the best single-cylinder motorcycle on sale today, with good value for money in terms of output and equipment. Worthy rivals include Royal Enfield’s Himalayan and BMW Motorrad India’s G 310 GS (yet to receive BS6 update). The 2020MY KTM 390 Adventure comes at a starting price of Rs 2.99 lakh ex-showroom.

    The Austrian motorcycle manufacturer has already confirmed that a lesser ‘250’ version will be introduced in its Adventure range. Similar to the usual trend, KTM India’s upcoming 250 Adventure will share its assembly line and internals with existing ‘250’ models. It was only recently that the KTM 250 Duke received a major update.
    Bajaj Auto’s Chakan manufacturing facility, home to Indian-spec KTM and Husqvarna products, also makes the KTM RC250 for exports markets. A random KTM 250 Adventure prototype has been spotted whilst being tested on public roads. Images are credit to Prem Kumar.

    The quarter-litre adventure tourer was spied multiple times over the months, but this particular example looks production-ready than ever before. In addition, it is seen with off-road accessories.
    Since KTM India has updated all its products to BS6 emission norms alongside some welcome cosmetic and mechanical changes, it is safe to assume that the 250 Adventure would be launched soon. Rumours suggest that KTM India is aiming for this festive season, after which it could potentially be the most desirable choice in our market’s growing 250cc single-cylinder segment. Speculative pricing stands at roughly Rs 2.40 lakh ex-showroom.
    Specs & Features
    Key highlights include full-LED headlamp, split 6-spoke alloy wheels, USD forks, TFT instrument console (not available in the current-gen 250 Duke and RC250), dual-channel ABS (switchable), slipper clutch, etc. This particular example does not wear an adjustable flyscreen. The final version might lack knuckle guards, cornering ABS, corner-sensitive traction control, bidirectional quickshifter (KTM Quickshifter+), etc., to bring prices down. If not for different paint schemes, the 250 Adventure would look almost identical to its bigger sibling.
    As mentioned before, the KTM 250 Adventure will borrow several components from familiar ‘250’ models. Powering the dual-sport motorcycle is a 248.8cc liquid-cooled DOHC single-cylinder engine good for 30.57bhp @ 8,000rpm and 27.4Nm @ 6,500rpm. Coupled to 6-speed gearbox, the unit is identical to the one powering Husqvarna Motorcycles India’s Svartpilen 250 and Vitpilen 250. However, riding characteristics would be considerably different thanks to offroad-focused sprockets.
    In comparison, the KTM 390 Adventure employs a 373.2cc motor. It churns out 43bhp @ 9,000rpm and 37Nm @ 7,000rpm. More

  • 2020 KTM Duke 250 Prices Increased – Gets Switchable ABS, LED Headlight

    The updates have added around INR 4k to the 250 Duke’s price tag
    The first pictures of updated KTM 250 Duke with full LED headlamp emerged online last week. We also brought you the information about its pricing. KTM India has now made an official announcement in this regard. The quarter liter street fighter is priced at INR 2,09,280 (ex-showroom, Delhi).
    The upgrades

    The most obvious upgrade is the LED headlamp which is a direct lift-off from the 390 Duke. The inverted trident shaped unit looks racy and is claimed to have better illumination compared to the 250’s old halogen unit.
    The 2020 KTM 250 Duke BS6 also gets ‘Supermoto‘ ABS mode which has also been derived from its bigger engined sibling. In Supermoto mode, the dual-channel ABS will function as a single-channel unit by modulating the brake pressure only at the front, leaving the rear brake pressure control entirely with the rider. Skilled riders would appreciate this while riding hard in a controlled environment.

    Another noteworthy addition to the 2020 BS6 250 Duke is the one-touch start function made possible by what KTM calls as contactless cranking. The feature is claimed to improve cold starts. The updated motorcycle also features two new liveries Dark Galvano and Silver Metallic.
    Specifications at a glance
    The 2020 KTM 250 Duke BS6 is positioned between the 200 Duke and 390 Duke to strike a fine balance between performance and affordability. The motorcycle which is made in India for select markets is powered by a 249 cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled motor which is paired to a 6-speed transmission. The power and torque figures stand at 30 hp and 24 Nm respectively. The 250 Duke is more powerful than its segment rivals Yamaha FZ25, Suzuki Gixxer 250 and the newly launched Bajaj Dominar 250. The Dominar 250 shares its engine with the Duke but at INR 1.60 lakh (ex-showroom), it is considerably cheaper.

    Being the most premium product in its segment, the KTM 250 Duke is equipped with trellis frame, WP inverted telescopic front and monoshock rear suspension, dual-channel ABS, slipper clutch, 17-inch alloy wheels with 110 front and 150 rear (section) tyres. While the 390 offers a color TFT instrument console, the 250 makes do with a fully digital amber-backlit unit in the interest of cost saving.
    The new updates come at a mild inflation of around INR 4k compared to the BS6 update earlier this year. We think the LED headlamp, switchable rear ABS, one-touch start and the new liveries will enhance the motorcycle’s appeal significantly. The new version has already started reaching showrooms across the country. More

  • KTM India Sales vs Exports June 2020 – RC, Duke 125, 200, 250, 390

    KTM India exported almost 5 times more motorcycles than they managed to sell in domestic market for June 2020
    Just like other two-wheeler manufacturers, KTM has also registered negative YoY growth in June 2020. YoY sales are down by -60.64%, from 4,924 units in June last year to 1,938 units in June 2020. Although most showrooms are now operational across the country, it may take some time for sales numbers to bounce back to pre-Covid levels.
    KTM Domestic Sales June 2020

    Top selling KTM continues to be KTM 125 (Duke + RC) with sales of 938 units in June 2020. In comparison to 2,108 units sold in June last year, KTM 125 YoY sales are down -55.50%. KTM 125 has emerged as a popular choice for folks looking for an entry-level performance bike. Its 124.7 cc, liquid cooled, DOHC, FI engine generates max power of 15 hp and max torque of 12 Nm. Engine is coupled with a 6-speed gearbox.
    At number two is KTM 200 (Duke + RC), which was the first KTM to be launched in the Indian market. It was the top selling KTM till the time the most affordable KTM 125 arrived on the scene. A total of 584 units were sold in June 2020, registering YoY de-growth of -69.12%. Sales during the corresponding period last year stood at 1,891 units.

    KTM India Domestic sales vs Exports June 2020
    Next in the list is KTM Duke 250 with 300 units sold in June 2020. YoY sales are down -47.37%, as compared to 570 units sold in June last year. KTM 390 (Duke + RC + ADV) takes the fourth place with 116 units sold in June 2020. As compared to 355 units sold in June last year, YoY sales have dropped by -67.32%.
    KTM 790 Duke is not featured in the list, as it is yet to be updated to BS6. It is expected that BS6 compliant KTM 790 will be launched in August 2020. The bike was imported into India via the CKD route. Only limited units were imported, all of which have been sold out.
    KTM exports June 2020
    Talking about exports, all KTM bikes have registered positive growth in June 2020. A total of 9,633 units were exported, which is YoY growth of 128.87%. KTM total exports in June last year was 4,209 units.
    KTM 390 range leads the pack with 4,575 units exported in June 2020. In comparison to 1,617 units exported in June last year, YoY growth works out at 182.93%. This huge growth registered by the 390 range was because of the ADV 390. Next is KTM 125 with 2,526 units exported in June. YoY growth is 128.18%, as compared to 1,107 units exported in June last year.
    At number three is KTM 200 with 1,817 units, registering YoY growth of 32.53%. Exports during the same period last year stood at 1,371 units. At fourth place is KTM 250 with 715 units exported in June 2020. YoY growth has jumped by a massive 527.19%, the best of all KTMs in percentage terms. Exports during the same period last year stood at 114 units.
    Also Read
    Bajaj Sales vs Exports – June 2020
    Husqvarna Sales vs Exports – June 2020
    No
    KTM Domestic
    Jun-20
    Jun-19
    Diff
    %
    1
    125
    938
    2,108
    -1,170
    -55.50
    2
    200
    584
    1,891
    -1,307
    -69.12
    3
    250
    300
    570
    -270
    -47.37
    4
    390
    116
    355
    -239
    -67.32

    Total
    1,938
    4,924
    -2,986
    -60.64
     
     
     
     
     
     
    No
    KTM Exports
    Jun-20
    Jun-19
    Diff
    %
    1
    125
    2,526
    1,107
    1,419
    128.18
    2
    200
    1,817
    1,371
    446
    32.53
    3
    250
    715
    114
    601
    527.19
    4
    390
    4,575
    1,617
    2,958
    182.93

    Total
    9,633
    4,209
    5,424
    128.87
     
     
     
     
     
     
    No
    KTM India
    June 2020 Domestic
    June 2020 Exports
    Diff
    %
    1
    125
    938
    2,526
    -1,588
    -62.86
    2
    200
    584
    1,817
    -1,233
    -67.85
    3
    250
    300
    715
    -415
    -58.04
    4
    390
    116
    4,575
    -4,459
    -97.46

    Total
    1,938
    9,633
    -7,695
    -79.88 More

  • New KTM Duke, RC buyers could win Free iPhone 11 every week

    KTM India has also announced FREE road side assistance and warranty extension
    KTM has now announced multiple benefits on booking a new KTM motorcycle in India. Benefits include free three year additional warranty (over the standard two yrs); free one year Road Side Assistance (RSA) plan. The limited period offer is valid till September 20, 2020.

    Booking also puts you in the pool where one stands a chance to win an iPhone 11, and multiple KTM merchandise (KTM fan package) during each week, the benefits are on offer. The offer is valid on purchase of any new KTM motorcycle, including Duke 125, Duke 200, Duke 250, Duke 390, RC 125, RC 200 and RC 390.
    KTM India has had no trouble in establishing itself as a premium motorcycle, and enjoys quite the reputation. The KTM fan package giveaway is valued at about Rs 5k, but is been given to KTM customers at no cost during the campaign period.

    Image – KTM Ankleshwar
    Sumeet Narang, President (Probiking) at Bajaj Auto Ltd. said “KTM is the most loved European brand among the biking enthusiasts in India with a phenomenal response for every product upgrade & introduction. To further encourage brand aspirants to own a KTM, we have raised the value proposition by providing a limited period offer of free three years extended warranty and one year road side assistance. All that the customers have to do is rush to our stores and book their favourite KTM to avail the benefits.”
    Having started business in India in 2012, KTM is now available in more than 365 cities with 460 stores. The auto manufacturer has the endorsement of 2.7 lakh bikers here, which makes India the largest global market for KTM.
    New KTM Duke 250
    KTM India will soon launch updated Duke 250 along with a price hike. The new D250 will come with LED headlight setup, instead the halogen setup which is seen on the current Duke 250. The new LED setup is borrowed from the more expensive Duke 390 and comes with same specs. Price of new Duke 250 is Rs 2.09 lakhs, ex-sh. It is Rs 4,000 more expensive than the Duke 250 with halogen headlight.
    Delay in deliveries
    Some owners have reported that deliveries of KTM motorcycles is taking longer than expected. If you are wondering why the delay, it is due to multiple reasons. As mentioned earlier, the auto industry ecosystem has been majorly disrupted by the lockdown. Even though restrictions have been eased during Lockdown 4.0, entities like auto component manufacturers and other suppliers are not 100% operational. Achieving stability and efficiency in the auto industry will take some time, which will naturally result in delays. Furthermore OEMs are yet to start production at full capacity. This is bound to create a gap between demand and supply.
    In case of KTM, another key reason for the delay is the significant backlog in exports. The company exports around 5k units per month, which has not been happening since the lockdown. It is likely that the company will try to clear the export backlog in the immediate future. The good thing for KTM is that international markets are now opening up including Europe. Even KTM’s production facility in its home country Austria has resumed operations.
    Soon after resuming operations, KTM had increased prices across its BS6 range. KTM motorcycles are now costlier by around 4k-5k. Husqvarna 250 twins have also become costlier by Rs 4,736 each. Delay in delivery periods are expected to come down to usual levels in the coming weeks. More

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    KTM EMotion Electric Scooter Concept Sketch – Looks Sharp

    The European-funded EMotion research project will use two technology demonstrators to develop a versatile, scalable and cost-effect EV architecture
    A sketch of what is purported to be Bajaj Chetak-based KTM electric scooter is doing rounds on the internet. While it does have KTM branding on it and clearly derives its design inspiration from the manufacturer’s E-Speed electric scooter concept, it is certainly not related to Chetak.
    KTM EMotion Concept – Background

    The project EMotion is a European-funded research project which involves 11 partners with Austrian Institute of Technology (AIT) taking the lead. KTM Technologies GmbH and KTM AG are also part of this 3-year research project which aims to develop inexpensive, energy-efficient and comfortable electric two-wheelers belonging to European Category L electric bicycles. What you see in the sketch is merely a representation of one of the technology demonstrators which will be realized during the course of the project.
    The project aims to develop zero-emission two wheelers for young (16-18 years) and older (50+ years) generations with reduced footprint and improved environment friendliness compared to conventional two wheelers.
    EMotion Research Project – Key Focus Areas

    The research project will attempt to eliminate the weaknesses of current electric two wheelers by developing modular, scalable and highly efficient electric drives and batteries, with specific focus on reducing manufacturing and maintenance costs. Several technologies will be explored to maximize energy efficiency in addition to improving stability and handling.
    The research objectives are split into three areas namely, 1. innovative lightweight construction and component arrangement, 2. highly efficient electric drive and charging components, and 3. user-oriented human-machine interface together with a novel on-board information system.
    Next Plan
    Two technology demonstrators (one 4 kW and one 8 kW unit) are slated to be built in the first 8 months of the project. With KTM being the only two wheeler OEM among the 11 partners, we expect both the EMotion demonstrators to be built by the Austrian firm. The test prototypes will undergo pilot trials for 8 months in urban and rural environments around Salzburg area.
    So, to recap, the KTM EMotion is not a product but a research platform which is expected to spawn several commercially viable technology solutions for compact zero emission mobility. Most of these solutions can be expected to be implemented on future KTM electric vehicles. The European research project is scheduled to conclude in February 2023.
    Bajaj KTM synergy on electric scooters
    KTM is indeed working on several electric two wheeler projects most of which will be made by Bajaj Auto in India. Bajaj will also develop its own versions based on the KTM electric two wheeler architecture. So, we won’t be surprised if we find solutions developed by EMotion research project on board future Bajaj EVs.
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  • KTM 250 Duke gets LED headlight from Duke 390 – Spy Shots

    There are no other changes on the quarter liter street fighter except the full LED headlamp
    When KTM introduced the new 390 Duke with upmarket equipment, it also introduced a 250 cc variant with a few cost cutting measures to cater to select markets including India. The bigger-engined Duke with its configurable color TFT display and a sharp looking full LED headlamp positions itself as a premium medium displacement street fighter, the 250 with halogen lamp (plus LED DRLs) and amber-backlit LCD instrument console has a mid-premium appeal to it. Well, not anymore.

    The 2020 KTM 250 Duke with updated full LED headlamps just like the one of 390 Duke has been spied. It looks like the new version has already started reaching dealer stockyards in the country. The naked bike which received its BS6 update earlier this year retails at a little over INR 2 lakh (ex-showroom) but the headlamp update is likely to inflate the price even further. We expect to know more in the coming days. The instrument console, however, continues to be a simple digital unit.
    The new full LED headlamp units is identical to the one on the 390 Duke. In fact, the entire Europe-spec Duke family employs the same unit in international market including the entry level 125 cc variant. The sharp looking unit is bifurcated vertically and alights with the brand’s latest design identity. Hat tip to auto enthusiast Miraj and Akshay for sharing the details with us.

    Existing KTM Duke 250 with halogen headlamp
    2020 KTM 250 Duke at a glance
    There seem to be no other changes to the India-spec 2020 KTM 250 Duke. The quarter liter motorcycle continues to be underpinned by steel trellis frame, WP upside front forks, WP rear monoshock, and 17-inch wheels with 110 mm (section) front and 150 mm rear tyres. Braking system comprises a 300 mm front and 230 mm rear disc by ByBre which are governed by Bosch dual-channel ABS (can be switched off).
    Power comes from a liquid-cooled 249 cc single-cylinder engine which is mated to a 6-speed gearbox via a assist and slipper clutch. The motor produces an impressive 30 hp and 24 Nm of torque.

    New KTM Duke 250 with LED headlamp
    The 2020 KTM 250 Duke rivals the Yamaha FZS 25 and Suzuki Gixxer 250 in India. Both the competitors recently received BS6 updates and are priced significantly lower than the Duke but they are also significantly low on power output.
    The lockdown has forced all OEMs including Bajaj to suspend product temporarily and this has resulted in delivery delays. We expect the LED headlamp equipped 250 Duke to be officially launched in the coming weeks with a noticeable bump in price tag. More

  • KTM 390 Adventure at Rs 6,999 EMI – Exchange offer, up to 95% finance offer

    The KTM 390 Adventure is arguably the best single-cylinder motorcycle available in India
    KTM India launched its flagship adventure tourer or dual-sport motorcycle, 390 Adventure back in January 2020 at a starting price of Rs 2.99 lakh ex-showroom. It is one of the first products from the brand to attain BS6 specifications and arguably the best buy in India’s emerging single-cylinder sports motorcycle category. KTM India, part of Bajaj Auto, further plans to launch a trimmed-down ‘250 Adventure’ in the near future.

    Ex-showroom (Delhi) pricing of the KTM 390 Adventure currently stands at Rs 3.04 lakh. This is still a reasonable figure considering the host of segment-first features offered with it. The motorcycle primarily rivals the Royal Enfield Himalayan while BMW Motorrad India is almost ready with the BS6-compliant G 310 GS. If rumours are correct, the entry-level BMW G 310 siblings will come with a hefty discount in their updated BS6 format.
    KTM 390 Adventure – Finance Options
    KTM India has partnered with Bajaj Finance and HDFC Bank to offer finance coverage up to 95 per cent, with competitive interest rates and flexible tenures. However, the primary highlight is the brand’s very own EMI programmes starting at Rs 6,999 per month (for five years) with up to 80 per cent coverage on its on-road price.

    KTM 390 Adventure
    Sumeet Narang, President (Probiking) at Bajaj Auto, states that the KTM 390 Adventure is a “pivotal addition” to the brand’s expanding portfolio which recently included the Husqvarna Vitpilen 250 and Svartpilen 250. He added that the adventure tourer is a promising, capable and versatile product for India’s biking enthusiasts. Hence, the new finance schemes are aimed to open new possibilities for potential buyers to own the KTM 390 Adventure.
    KTM 390 Adventure – Overview
    The 2020MY KTM 390 Adventure is powered by a 373.2cc liquid-cooled DOHC single-cylinder engine generating almost 43bhp @ 9,000rpm and 37Nm @ 7,000rpm. The powerplant is familiar from KTM’s other ‘390’ offerings, Duke and RC. This is mated to a 6-speed transmission via a slipper clutch alongside a bidirectional quickshifter, dubbed Quickshifter+.
    Other features include full-LED headlamps, adjustable windscreen, TFT instrument console, KTM MyRide smartphone connectivity (optional), three-axis IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) coupled to cornering ABS; ride-by-wire, offroad mode, cornering traction control, etc. It rides on Metzeler Tourance tyres and weighs about 177kg. Fuel tank capacity stands at 14.3 litres. There are only two colour choices: White and Orange.
    India is one of the very first markets to get KTM’s all-new single-cylinder adventure tourer. In global markets, it has already become a highly desirable starter bike. More

  • KTM RC 250 fairing removed – Modified into a neo-retro Cafe Racer

    Minority Custom Motorcycle (MCM) has taken a unique styling approach for the KTM RC 250 platform
    Austrian] two-wheeler manufacturer KTM has three single-cylinder BS6 model lines in its Indian portfolio: Duke, RC and Adventure. The range starts with the KTM 125 Duke in the 125cc sports category and goes up to the 390 Adventure in the 300-400cc sports tourer or dual-sport segment.

    The faired KTM RC line has two variants: 200 and 390. Meanwhile, the KTM RC 250 is not available on the Indian market despite being assembled at Bajaj Auto’s Chakan manufacturing facility for exports.
    KTM India might consider its launch at some point in the future, especially since the 390 Adventure is getting a trimmed-down ‘250’ sibling soon. There has not been a compelling choice in the 250cc faired-sports category since Honda Motorcycle India discontinued its CBR250R.

    Minority Custom Motorcycle (MCM), based in Indonesia, has modified an RC 250 into a neo-retro cafe racer. Headed by Jonathan Evan, MCM has definitely chosen a challenging aesthetic approach in the project. One does not usually come across a faired motorcycle customised into a cafe racer, let alone a neat example. The motorcycle belongs to a client in eastern Indonesia.
    The Aim
    Jonathan and his team have retained some of the original KTM DNA with its bright orange theme against dark metallic grey (in line with the engine’s shade). Minority Custom Motorcycle states that the project is a tribute to ‘60s cafe racers. It gives an insight into how a KTM cafe racer would look like. At present, the closest thing to a ‘KTM 250 Cafe’ is the Husqvarna Vitpilen 250.
    Notable Features
    Proper attention was given to change the angular looks of the donor motorcycle without any chances of abruptness in the final design. To make this happen, the RC 250 wears a handmade steel-sheet fuel tank of the same capacity.

    KTM RC 250 Modified
    Key highlights include single-seat layout, wasp tail cowl with integrated brake lamp; ‘halo’ LED headlamp + visor, custom clip-on handlebars, single-pod instrument console, Bridgestone Battlax tyres, stainless steel exhaust piping with Scorpion muffler and more. Extra bodywork had to be installed to cover off some of the electricals hidden by the stock fairing. The new clip-ons changed its original rider triangular substantially that MCM had to set the footpegs further back.
    Power Plant
    MCM has not made any major revisions to the power plant. In Indian-spec BS6 format, the 248.8cc liquid-cooled DOHC single-cylinder engine churns out 30.57bhp @ 8,000rpm and 27.4Nm @ 6,500rpm. This is mated to a 6-speed transmission via a slipper clutch.

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