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    Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Shadow Ash Launch Price Rs 2.49 L

    Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Shadow Ash ColourRoyal Enfield, one of the world’s oldest motorcycle manufacturers, has been India’s de facto classic and neo retro manufacturer for a very long time. While the 350cc lineup is RE’s cash cow, the company is pushing the 450cc lineup in a big way. We’re talking about the Guerrilla 450 Shadow Ash which was just launched at GRRR Nights X Underground event held in Pune in partnership with Tapaswi Racing.
    Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Shadow Ash
    Launched last year, Guerrilla 450 has not been a sales phenomenon like Royal Enfield’s 350cc portfolio is. January 2025 saw 349 units sold, 621 units in February, 831 units in March, 920 units in April, 1,035 units in May and 696 units in June. To boost sales to Guerrilla’s full potential, Royal Enfield just launched a new Shadow Ash colourway with it.
    Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Shadow Ash Colour
    Based on mid-spec Dash trim level, Guerrilla 450 Shadow Ash sits below top-spec Flash trim level. Where pricing is concerned, Royal Enfield is asking Rs 2.49 lakh (Ex-sh) for Shadow Ash, which is the same price as standard colours. Bookings have commenced and deliveries start on 25th August across India.
    Shadow Ash colourway takes a similar approach as Gold Drip colourway. In this sense, fuel tank gets a dual-tone theme with Black at the front and Olive Green behind it. Similar to Gold Drip, colour at the front extends to front mud guard, while rear colour extends to side and rear body panels. In Shadow Ash, Black is on front mud guard and Olive Green can be seen on side and rear body panels.
    Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Shadow Ash Colour
    Royal Enfield lettering on fuel tank and 450 lettering on side body panels get somewhat of a Teal colour, which adds flashy contrast. These colours also trickle down to pin stripes on its alloy wheels. Royal Enfield mentions that this new Shadow Ash colourway on Guerrilla 450 denotes strength and muscle.
    Any other changes?
    Rest of the motorcycle is similar to Dash variant in terms of components, performance and equipment. Speaking of, Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Shadow Ash gets the TFT Tripper Dash which supports a host of Bluetooth features including music control and Google Maps integration along with a comprehensive range of informatics.
    Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Shadow Ash Colour
    It continues to be powered by the same Sherpa 450 engine which is a single-cylinder liquid-cooled DOHC 4V powerhouse that is capable of delivering 40 bhp of peak power and 40 Nm of peak torque, mated to an electronic throttle, a slipper clutch and a 6-speed gearbox. 17-inch alloys at both ends with 160-section rear tyre, dual channel ABS, RSU telescopic front forks and a rear mono-shock.

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    BMW 1st Luxury Brand In India To Record 5k Sales – Launches 4,000 km High-Power Charging Corridor

    BMW India records 5k EV salesBMW Group India has achieved a landmark milestone by delivering over 5,000 electric vehicles, becoming the first luxury carmaker in the country to do so. To mark the achievement, the company has inaugurated a 4,000 km high-power charging corridor stretching from Jammu in the north to Madurai in the south, reinforcing its leadership in India’s premium electric mobility segment.
    Charging Network Open to All EV Brands
    The newly launched corridor places charging stations at every 300 km, ensuring seamless inter-city travel and eliminating concerns around charging availability or range anxiety. Covering major highways and cities including Delhi, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Pune, Hubbali, Bengaluru, Coimbatore and Madurai, the initiative is open to all EV customers in India, not just BMW owners.
    BMW India High-Power Charging Corridor
    Each charging location will feature capacities ranging from 120 kW up to 720 kW, and will be operated in partnership with Statiq and Zeon. BMW has also designed the experience to be customer-friendly, situating chargers near cafés, restaurants, and public spaces where drivers can relax while their vehicles recharge. Digital integration via the myBMW app and in-car systems will provide real-time charger status, route planning, filtering options, and nearby amenities.
    Complementing this corridor, BMW already offers close to 300 BMW Destination Chargers at luxury hotels, resorts, and malls across India. Combined with partnerships with leading public networks, the company now provides access to more than 6,000 charging points nationwide. BMW also offers customers the BMW Charging Concierge, an industry-first service providing route planning support and unified payment solutions for chargers, avoiding the need for multiple apps.
    Mr. Vikram Pawah, President and CEO, BMW Group India, said: “BMW Group India is immensely proud to become the first luxury carmaker to cross the remarkable milestone of 5,000 electric vehicle deliveries. This achievement is not just a number, it represents our unwavering commitment to e-mobility and pioneering spirit in the premium EV landscape. At BMW, luxury and performance is delivered seamlessly with sustainability, and our electric products embody this philosophy. In this journey, we will continue to delight our customers with the most electrifying products and services that provide complete peace of mind. To mark this milestone, we are happy to introduce our high-power charging corridor. Across the length of the nation, from Jammu to Madurai, EV customers can now just sit back and enjoy Sheer Driving Pleasure without a second thought.”
    Strong Growth in EV Sales
    BMW has maintained its position as India’s most preferred luxury EV brand for the last three years. In the first half of 2025 alone, BMW Group India (BMW + MINI) sold 1,322 EVs, recording a +234% growth year-on-year. EVs now contribute 18% of the company’s total sales. The BMW iX1 Long Wheelbase emerged as the best-selling model, followed by the BMW i7. The company’s diverse portfolio includes the BMW i7, iX, i5, i4, iX1 LWB, MINI Countryman E, and electric two-wheelers CE 04 and CE 02, offering customers the widest range of luxury electric options in the country.
    BMW Group India attributes its success not just to its products but also to a holistic EV ecosystem. Customers benefit from complimentary home chargers, access to fast-charging facilities across BMW and MINI dealerships, and services like Smart E-Routing, Destination Charging, and the new Concierge system. With this new milestone and infrastructure expansion, BMW Group India continues to strengthen its pioneering role in luxury electric mobility — combining performance, innovation, and sustainability. More

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    New TVS Electric Scooter Launch on 28th Aug – Orbiter Could Be the Name

    New TVS Electric Scooter
    TVS Motor is gearing up to launch an all-new electric scooter in India on 28th August 2025. Ahead of the official debut, the company has released a teaser with the caption “Get ready for an electrifying ride”, confirming that the upcoming model will indeed be an EV.
    New TVS Electric Scooter
    Recently, leaked design sketches from Indonesia had given a glimpse of what could be TVS’s next electric scooter. The design language shows a sporty and futuristic stance with sharp LED lighting elements. At the front, it gets sleek horizontal LED DRLs along with LED turn indicators, while the main headlamp unit is positioned on the handlebar cowl. A tall windscreen adds to its touring-oriented styling.
    New TVS Electric Scooter
    The scooter features slim body panels with a prominent design element running from the apron through the floorboard, possibly housing the battery pack. At the rear, it sports a split grab rail, LED tail lamps, and a tidy tail section. Other notable design highlights include a small glovebox with charging port, dual rear shock absorbers, and wheels that appear to be 14-inch at the front and 12-inch at the rear.
    Speculation also suggests that the scooter could be powered by a mid-mounted motor, offering better balance and performance compared to hub-mounted setups. With TVS already offering the iQube, this new model is expected to be positioned lower in the lineup, targeting customers looking for a more affordable EV option.
    New TVS Electric Scooter – Orbiter
    Adding weight to the speculation, TVS has trademarked a new name – “Orbiter” – which could likely be the official name of this upcoming scooter. If true, the Orbiter will join TVS’s expanding electric mobility portfolio and strengthen its position in India’s fast-growing EV two-wheeler segment.
    With the teaser now live, all eyes are set on 28th August, when TVS will reveal full details of its latest electric scooter, including specifications, range, features, and pricing. More

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    Hero Glamour X 125 First Ride Review – Cruise Control For The Masses!

    Hero Glamour X 125 First Ride ReviewIndia’s leading motorcycle manufacturer, Hero MotoCorp is set to rewrite the script of the country’s budget commuter motorcycle segment. The company promised to deliver “Most Futuristic 125cc” offering and launched Glamour X 125 in the country for a starting price of Rs 89,999 (Ex-sh). After riding this Glamour X 125 in Jaipur for around a day, this is what we think about it.
    Hero Glamour X 125 First Ride Review
    Where pricing is concerned, Glamour X is positioned above the rest of Hero’s 125cc motorcycles other than Xtreme 125R. The base variant of standard Glamour undercuts Glamour X by around Rs 3k, while base variant of Super Splendor undercuts Glamour X by around Rs 1k. Glamour XTEC is slightly pricier than Glamour X.
    Hero Glamour X Design
    The top-spec Disc variant of Glamour X is priced at Rs 99,999 (Ex-sh), which is around Rs 5k to 8k pricier than Super Splendor, Glamour and Glamour XTEC. For the extra price, Glamour X delivers an upmarket design along with extra features and technology which is never heard of in the 125cc motorcycles that cost more than twice the price of Glamour X.
    Disc variant gets all bells and whistles including the LED tail lights, LED turn indicators, Panic Braking feature, fully digital LCD instrument cluster with advanced Bluetooth features and improved switchgear with Glamour X’s pièce de résistance, the Cruise Control feature. LED headlight setup is common between both variants.
    Hero Glamour X Design
    Design-wise, Glamour X has a muscular fuel tank with extended tank shrouds, a tall windscreen over the stylish LED headlight setup, striking LED DRLs, a belly pan under the engine compartment, a smart-looking single-piece seat, single-piece rear pillion grab rail, stylish LED tail lights, sleek LED turn indicators and attractive dual-tone graphics all around. Alloy wheel design is quite interesting too.
    One can spruce up the design of Glamour X with official accessories. Some of them are quite useful including tank knee pads, pillion backrest, rear tyre hugger, knuckle guards, engine guards and a belly pan. Interestingly, Hero offers a shorter windscreen as an accessory, while taller windscreen comes as standard, which was a ‘huh’ moment for me when I first saw it.
    Hero Glamour X Design
    Added Features
    Now that appearances are out of the way, we can dig into the juiciest part of this Glamour X, which is its features list. Starting with its fully digital LCD instrument cluster, it is a similar unit as Xtreme 250R and it shows quite a lot of information for a 125cc motorcycle class. There’s even a gear position indicator that also advises upshifts and downshifts depending on the speed and gear you are in.
    Hero Glamour X Instrument Cluster
    Speedo, tacho, twin trip computers, distance to empty, avg fuel efficiency, date, time, i3S on/off, Ride Modes and Bluetooth connectivity are some of the notable features of this cluster. This cluster also gets an ambient light sensor that can adjust brightness based on lighting conditions. Bluetooth connection with a smartphone enables notifications and turn-by-turn navigation. First in any Hero product, we have a USB Type-C port. On left switchgear, two buttons operate cluster menus, while the third Mode button cycles through Eco, Road and Power riding modes.
    Hero Glamour X Switchgear – Cruise Control
    Cruise Control
    This is a baffling feature that is expected to shake the market and make the world stand up and take notice of Hero Glamour X. From what we saw, it has worked. From initial spy shots to the actual launch, Glamour X has created and maintained tremendous buzz and it surprisingly delivers. For cruise control to work, Hero MotoCorp is offering ride by wire technology and this electronic throttle body still retains a kick starter, combination of these is a world’s first.
    Using cruise control is fairly simple and is operated by the toggle on right switchgear. Base speed for cruise control to work is 30 km/h and it will maintain set speeds reliably until a manual override from user in the form of clutch, brake and throttle activation. After manual override, one flick of cruise control toggle re-activates and resumes previously set speed seamlessly. So, cruise control is not a gimmick on this motorcycle if users really want to make use of it.
    Hero Glamour X Wheels
    Ride & Dynamics
    Other than the added features, Glamour X is a commuter offering through and through, as signified by its cycle parts. It continues to get 30mm RSU telescopic front forks, and 5-step preload adjustable rear twin shock absorbers. Front disc brake is optional, while rear drum brake is standard. Alloy wheels are 18-inchers at both ends, wrapped with 80/100-18 front and 100/80-18 rear tubeless tyres. All these are mounted on a Diamond-type frame.
    Hero Glamour X Tyres & Brakes
    Wheelbase is 1,267 mm, seat height is 790 mm and ground clearance is 170 mm. Depending on variant, kerb weight is between 125.5 kg to 127 kg. Handlebar is wide and footpegs are forward set, offering a relaxed riding posture. Swinging the leg over Glamour X’s saddle is relatively easy for both rider and pillion.
    Hero Glamour X Powertrain
    Glamour X shares the 124.7cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine with Xtreme 125R. This powerplant is capable of delivering 11.4 bhp of peak power at 8250 RPM and 10.5 Nm of peak torque at 6500 RPM, mated to a 5-speed gearbox that comes with a heel-and-toe shifter, common among commuter motorcycles.
    Hero Glamour X Suspension
    Performance is brisk and is on par with other 125cc budget commuters on sale in India. On the highway, I could even manage to strike 100 km/h indicated speed reading on the instrument cluster in 5th gear. Ride quality is balanced in typical Hero fashion and it offers a comfortable commuter to users. It handles like a commuter running on skinny tyres, which is par for this segment. Also par for this segment is braking performance.
    Hero Glamour X Design
    Some Reservations
    While Hero Glamour X is a great overall package with a lot of potential to shake the entire world’s commuter segment, there is room for improvement.
    1. If we divide Glamour X’s design into four quarter, the top right quarter is downright sporty and attractive along with radiating an upmarket feel. Top left quarter looks like a premium commuter. However, bottom quarters are nothing to write home about. Maybe fatter tyres would have helped the cause significantly.
    Hero Glamour X Design
    2. We didn’t touch on the Bluetooth features in depth because just like every other Hero product we reviewed (except for Vida scooters), we could not connect our smartphone with this system. I personally own a Xoom 125 and I am not able to get this app working even as an owner.
    Conclusion
    Other than these two grievances, Hero Glamour X 125 comes off as a compelling product. Overall fit and finish is par for this segment and it bears quite a few upmarket features and first-in-the-world technologies that work as advertised. Especially the Cruise Control feature which could reshape the whole commuter motorcycle landscape.
    Hero Glamour X Features
    Glamour X is such a compelling product, it makes standard Glamour and Glamour XTEC obsolete and might even eat into the pie of Super Splendor. It has great potential to shake up the 125cc commuter segment as it aims to be an aspiring vehicle for many commuters to own.
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    Hero Xtreme 125R Gets Single Seat Variant – Cruise Control Coming Soon

    Hero Xtreme 125R Gets Single SeatNew single seat variant of Hero Xtreme 125R is around Rs 1,600 costlier than the base model and Rs 2,000 cheaper than the top variant
    Hero MotoCorp is taking steps to strengthen its presence in the 125cc motorcycle segment. The company recently launched the Glamour X, which is India’s first 125cc bike with cruise control. In the latest development, Hero Xtreme 125R has been updated with the option of a single seat variant. Let’s check out the details and pricing.
    Hero Xtreme 125R single seat variant
    In the 125cc segment, Hero offers the Glamour, Glamour X, Glamour XTEC, Super Splendor XTEC and Xtreme 125R. Among the lot, Xtreme 125R stands out with its sporty design and striking presence. A split-seat setup complements its sporty profile and has been there since its launch.
    Hero Xtreme 125R Gets Single Seat
    For buyers who may be looking for the best of both worlds, Hero has now launched a single seat version of the Xtreme 125R. As even the single piece seat has a prominent step-up design, the overall silhouette does not change dramatically. The bike’s striking presence remains largely the same as earlier even with the single piece seat. Depending on the individual, the single piece seat could even be more attractive than the split seats.
    With a single piece seat, pillion riders can expect better overall comfort. It is also better suited for practical applications in daily life. Colour options for the single seat Xtreme 125R are the same as available with other variants. Users can choose from three colour options – Cobalt Blue, Firestorm Red and Stallion Black.
    Hero Xtreme 125R Gets Single Seat
    Hero Xtreme 125R single seat variant is available at a starting price of Rs 1,00,100. In comparison, the top variant costs Rs 1,02,100. The base variant of Xtreme 125R starts at Rs 98,425. Hero’s move to add a single seat option with Xtreme 125R could be aimed at boosting competencies against rival offerings. For example, the primary rival TVS Raider 125 is also available with the option of a single seat variant. It is priced at Rs 93,865.
    Hero Xtreme 125R Cruise Control
    Hero MotoCorp is gearing up to make the Xtreme 125R even more feature-packed, as the bike is set to become the second 125 cc motorcycle in India to get cruise control after the Glamour X. The upcoming variant is expected to include ride-by-wire throttle, three ride modes (Eco, Road, and Power), and a new colour LCD, essentially carrying forward all the tech seen on the Glamour X. A dedicated cruise control switch will make it easier for riders to maintain consistent speeds, while mode and menu buttons will enhance overall usability. With these upgrades, Hero will position the new top-spec Xtreme 125R variant above the current range, which already includes single-seat, split-seat, and ABS trims.
    Hero Xtreme 125R Cruise Control Variant
    No mechanical updates
    Core hardware specs for the single seat Xtreme 125R variant are the same as other variants. Powering the bike is a 124.7 cc air cooled engine that generates 11.55 PS and 10.5 Nm of torque. This engine is the same as seen with the Glamour X. It is paired with a 5-speed transmission. Rival TVS Raider utilizes a 124.8 cc air & oil cooled engine that generates 11.38 PS and 11.75 Nm. It is mated to a 5-speed transmission.
    Hero Xtreme 125R has a diamond frame, with 37mm telescopic front forks and monoshock rear suspension. Both ends have 17-inch wheels, with 90/90 front and 120/80 rear tubeless tyres. Braking setup comprises 276 mm disc at the front and 130 mm drum brake at the rear. Single channel ABS is offered as standard with the single seat and top variant of Xtreme 125R. The base variant has 240 mm disc and 130 mm drum combo with IBS.
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    Mahindra BE 6 Batman Edition Gets Overwhelming Response – Production Increased

    Mahindra BE 6 Batman EditionMahindra has announced that it will expand the production of the recently unveiled BE 6 Batman Edition from the initial 300 units to 999 units, following strong demand from fans, collectors, and the wider community.
    Mahindra BE 6 Batman Edition
    The BE 6 Batman Edition, created as a tribute to passion, individuality, and the enduring legacy of the Dark Knight, has struck a chord with enthusiasts across age groups, particularly children who connect with their superheroes. Mahindra says the extraordinary response reflects the emotional bond people share with the Batman legacy.
    Mahindra BE 6 Batman Edition
    Booking and Pre-Booking Details
    1. Pre-bookings (“Add your preference”) open August 21, 2025 at 5 PM, via the official website: Mahindra BE 6 Batman Edition. Customers can add the model to their cart, validate their phone number with an OTP, and complete KYC for a quicker booking process.
    2. Bookings officially begin August 23, 2025 at 11 AM, with a booking amount of Rs 21,000. Customers who have pre-registered can directly confirm their order at this stage.
    3. Deliveries will start on September 20, 2025, coinciding with International Batman Day.
    Special Badges and Personalization
    Mahindra has also introduced a personalization option for buyers. After booking confirmation, each customer can select their preferred badge number (001–999). Unlike earlier limited editions, these badge numbers will be non-exclusive, ensuring that all buyers get the number of their choice.
    According to Mahindra, this approach ensures that the BE 6 Batman Edition is not just about exclusivity, but also about celebrating individuality and connection. The company hinted that similar limited-edition models could be introduced in 2026 as part of this strategy.
    The BE 6 Batman Edition: A Collector’s Dream
    Built on the BE 6 Pack Three platform, the Batman Edition features a 79 kWh blade battery, delivering up to 282 hp (228 kW) and 380 Nm of torque, with an ARAI-certified range of up to 682 km. The design stands out with a satin black finish, gloss-black body elements, gold-accented suspension springs and brake calipers, and Batman emblems strategically placed across the body.
    The interior continues the theme with dual-tone black and gold upholstery, ambient lighting inspired by the Dark Knight Trilogy, Batman sounds and animations on the infotainment system, and a collectible numbered badge. The original edition was priced at Rs 27.79 lakh (ex-showroom) — less than Rs 90,000 premium over the standard variant. More

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    TVS King Kargo HD EV Launch Price Rs 3.85 Lakh – Brings Segment-First Features

    TVS King Kargo HD EVTVS Motor Company has launched the TVS King Kargo HD EV, a next-generation cargo three-wheeler built to address the needs of India’s growing urban and semi-urban logistics sector. Priced at Rs 3.85 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), the new electric three-wheeler brings segment-first innovations in safety, comfort, and connectivity. Alongside, the company also unveiled the TVS King Kargo HD CNG variant, scheduled for launch later this year.
    TVS King Kargo HD EV
    The Kargo HD EV is designed to enhance efficiency in last-mile delivery with features like LED headlamps and tail lamps for better visibility, a spacious cabin with fully rolling windows, stylish door trims, and a dedicated Power Gear Mode that improves torque under heavy loads. It also debuts as India’s first Bluetooth-enabled cargo three-wheeler, equipped with TVS SmartXonnect, offering 26 connected features for drivers.
    TVS King Kargo HD EV
    Best-in-Segment Features
    – Top speed: 60 km/h
    – Load deck: 6.6 ft with leaf spring suspension
    – Warranty: 6 years / 1.5 lakh km
    – Water wading capacity: 500 mm
    – Charging time: 3 hours 10 minutes
    – Ground clearance: 235 mm, with lowest loading height of 703 mm
    – Turning radius: 3,420 mm for better manoeuvrability in tight spaces
    – Braking: Shortest stopping distance with 200 mm drum diameter
    – Fleet management: Equipped with TVS Connect Fleet telematics solution
    TVS King Kargo HD EV
    The TVS Connect Fleet platform gives operators complete visibility and control over their vehicles with 31 advanced features, including real-time tracking, remote asset control, APIs, alerts, and intelligent dashboards. This makes it easier for businesses to maximize uptime and efficiency in cargo operations.
    CNG variant was also showcased, but will debut later
    In the first phase, the King Kargo HD EV will be available in Delhi, NCR (Faridabad, Noida, Gurgaon, Ghaziabad), Rajasthan, and Bengaluru. Deliveries will begin soon, while the CNG variant will join the lineup by the end of 2025.
    TVS King Kargo HD EV
    Rajat Gupta, Business Head – Commercial Mobility, TVS Motor Company, said: “The launch of the TVS King Kargo HD represents a transformative moment in the evolution of cargo mobility, aligned to our ‘Re-Imagine 2030’ vision. This three-wheeler will set new benchmarks by delivering an unmatched combination of smart features, high load capability, comfort, ergonomics and safety. Coupled with the TVS Connect Fleet, the vehicle will empower businesses and also improve the everyday life of operators. With the TVS King Kargo HD EV, we are confident of redefining customer expectations and enabling them to achieve more, every day, effortlessly. More

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    New KTM Twin-Cylinder Duke, Adventure Bikes Spied Testing – 490cc Incoming?

    New KTM Twin-Cylinder DukeBased on earlier plans revealed by KTM, it is likely that these new twin-cylinder KTM bikes will fall in the 500–700cc category
    To give enthusiasts more options, KTM appears to be working on new models. The middleweight segment holds strong potential and KTM seems to be actively focusing on it. Latest spy shots provide strong evidence, revealing all-new twin-cylinder KTM Duke and Adventure bikes. Let’s take a closer look at what KTM is planning.
    KTM new twin-cylinder bikes – What to expect?
    Looking at the spy shots, the test mules appear to be in the early- to mid-prototype testing stage. The engine looks production-spec, indicating that the platform is finalized and undergoing road validation. Bodywork is largely unfinished and makeshift panels are clearly evident. There are temporary components instead of production dashboards and switches, as commonly seen during the validation phase.
    In the present format, it may take anywhere between 12-18 months for these bikes to reach showrooms. While the engine appears to be a smaller capacity twin-cylinder, the exact displacement is not known. Some of the equipment will make it to production stage such as the large windscreen and wire-spoke wheels of the Adventure bike. It also has a rear top box rack.
    In comparison, the Duke has alloy wheels, a short tail section and split seats. While the Adventure bike has dual-purpose tyres, the Duke utilizes road-biased tyres. Wheels of the Adventure could be in the 21-18 or 19-17 combo. The Duke will likely have 17-inch wheels at both ends. Common features for both models include USD front forks, upswept exhaust and monoshock rear suspension.
    New KTM Twin-Cylinder Duke
    Displacement possibilities
    Both the Duke and the Adventure have a single disc at the front. This presents a strong possibility of a small-capacity twin-cylinder prototype. Over the years, KTM has been looking to bridge the gap between its 390 cc and 790 cc range. This segment represents a big opportunity and rivals like Honda and Aprilia already have dedicated products in this space. BMW, TVS and Norton will also be launching their respective 450cc twin-cylinder bikes.
    It remains to be seen whether KTM will directly target the displacement preferences of its rivals or carve out a more niche space for its new twin-cylinder bikes. For this segment, KTM’s plans have changed multiple times. For example, KTM CEO Stefan Pierer had said in 2019 that the brand is working on an all-new 490cc range of motorcycles. However, this plan was later permanently axed due to high development costs and low commercial potential.
    KTM then transitioned to the idea of developing an all-new 690cc range. These bikes were planned to be made in China by KTM’s partner CFMoto. But KTM changed its strategy again by rethinking a new twin-cylinder platform that would be manufactured in India. Bikes based on this platform are planned to target overseas markets such as Australia, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Nepal.
    Made-in-India strategy will work better for these markets in terms of pricing and logistics. Pierer had earlier also said that the first bike to be launched in this range will be a Duke. An Adventure and RC could be introduced at a later date.
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