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    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.
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    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.
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    Royal Enfield 650 Cruiser Spied Cruising On Highway By Interceptor Rider

    2021 Royal Enfield Cruiser 650cc
    The familiar 648 cc twin-cylinder air-cooled engine is expected to be retained without any changes to its output figures

    Royal Enfield has been busy testing several of its upcoming products including the 650 cc Cruier. The twin-cylinder tourer has been spotted on a highway once again, this time by a Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 rider (Inigo M Sabastian) with a helmet-mounted camera.
    Royal Enfield 650 Cruiser – Styling
    The Royal Enfield Cruiser is the third derivative of the company’s popular 650 cc twin-cylinder platform. The product was previewed by KX bobber design concept at EICMA in 2018. However, the near-production ready test mules that have been doing rounds in public for several months look very different from the concept.
    2021 Royal Enfield Cruiser 650cc
    For starters, the fuel tank is almond shaped, sticking to RE’s conventional design language. The wheelbase is shorter compared to the KX and the seat height is noticeably taller. That said, the upcoming twin-cylinder Royal Enfield does follow textbook cruiser design with low-slung tail, forward-set foot pegs and a relaxed riding posture.
    What we know so far?
    The Royal Enfield 650 Cruiser adopts inverted telescopic front forks, a first for the brand in the modern era. The rear continues with traditional twin shock absorber units. The motorcycle is equipped with alloy wheels, front and rear disc brakes (most likely with standard dual-channel ABS), and twin silencers which are mounted very low. Spirited cornering maneuvers could scratch them.
    2021 Royal Enfield Cruiser 650cc
    The motorcycle is equipped with a single digi-analog instrument console. We expect the final production version to be equipped with another small dial incorporating Tripper Navigation system which works based on smartphone connectivity.
    The familiar 648 cc air-cooled parallel-twin engine is likely to be retained in the same state of tune as the Interceptor and Continental GT. To recap, the motor produces 47 hp and 52 Nm of torque. A 6-speed gearbox is connected to the motor by means of a slipper and assist clutch.
    When is it coming?
    Royal Enfield is gearing up for a massive product onslaught that will first see the retro-classic specialist renew its money making 350 cc portfolio. The recently launched Meteor 350 will be followed up by next generation Classic 350 and a sportier roadster which is reported to be called as Hunter 350. Then comes the 650 Cruiser and another twin-cylinder roadster that appears to be a spiritual successor to the now defunct Classic 500.
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    The product launch campaign which was delayed by the pandemic crisis is expected to kick start in the coming months and should run into 2022. The new models will play a crucial role not only in domestic growth but also in the company’s aspiration to establish global leadership in the medium displacement motorcycle segment. If you are a Royal Enfield fan, this year is going to be a very exciting one for sure. More

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    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

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    2021 Royal Enfield Classic 350 Instrument Cluster Spied – Gets Tripper Navigation

    2021 Royal Enfield Classic 350
    The new-gen Royal Enfield Classic 350 is expected to be launched in the next few weeks

    Royal Enfield has its hands full with its recent commitment to launch at least four new products every year. Late last year, the brand launched its all-new cruiser Meteor 350 which was followed by an updated version of Himalayan early this year. For the next quarter, it is expected that the Chennai-based bikemaker will introduce a new generation model of Classic 350.
    Test mules of the upcoming Classic 350 have been spotted on numerous occasions recently. Seeing all spy shots, there hardly seems to be any cosmetic difference between the new model and the current model, at first glance at least. It is evident that Royal Enfield wouldn’t want to tinker with the design of a bike that has been the company’s best-seller for many years.
    Revised Instrument Cluster
    However, there are some crucial additions to this motorcycle that would make the upcoming iteration of the retro-styled classic bike a little more than just bare bones. For the first time, the revamped instrument cluster of the upcoming Classic 350 has been spied.
    We get to notice two important additions- a small digital display along with a Tipper Navigation pod beside it. The digital display will probably read out basic information from the odometer and fuel gauge. It retains the manual speedometer.
    2021 Royal Enfield Classic 350
    The Tripper Navigation made its first appearance in Meteor 350 and later on the update Himalayan and would soon be made available on all models across Royal Enfield’s range. It provides turn-by-turn navigation on the display pod when connected to the rider’s smartphone via the Royal Enfield App where one can enter destination information. The app world in association with Google Maps which feeds the data on the display screen of the pod.
    Styling
    As mentioned earlier, Royal Enfield has not made many changes to its overall design with most of its elements being carried over from the current model. This includes circular headlamps with chrome bezels, chrome-plated exhaust, broad rear fenders, circular rearview mirrors and a teardrop-shaped fuel tank.
    The only notable updates spotted are narrower round LED lights and turn indicators. It gets new split seats with better cushioning for a more comfortable long-distance ride. It now gets a new single-piece grab rail which is positioned slightly higher for better reach to the pillion.
    2021 Royal Enfield Classic 350
    Specifications
    As far as hardware is concerned it will be based on a new J platform the same which underpins Meteor 350. It is built on a double-cradle chassis instead of a single downtube frame as in the current model though suspension setup hasn’t been tinkered much.
    The new-gen Classic 350 will be powered by an all-new 348cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine which churns out 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm of peak torque. This is 1 bhp more and 1 Nm less than the current model’s output. It will be linked to a new 5-speed gearbox. Upon its launch, it will rival the likes of Benelli Imperiale, Jawa Forty-Two and Honda H’Ness CB350. More

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    Royal Enfield Cruiser 650 Ground Clearance Detailed In New Spy Shots

    Royal Enfield 650cc Cruiser
    The upcoming 650cc cruiser twins are likely to offer different riding dynamics and wear different monikers

    Royal Enfield fans are an excited bunch as the company has plans to launch multiple new products, hence every spy shot of an upcoming motorcycle gets noticed. While the company has quite a few exciting launches headed in the coming future, one of the bikes that has garnered a lot of attention is the brand’s upcoming 650cc cruiser.
    Test mules of the cruiser have been spotted on multiple occasions over the past year or so but only a couple of months we came to know that there might be more than one derivative of the upcoming bike. It might be the case of two different models or two different variants of the same model.
    Building on the popularity of 650cc Twins, this new cruiser will share its underpinnings as well as its power source with the twin roadsters. The first hint of a new addition to the Royal Enfield family was dropped at the EICMA 2018 where it showcased the KX Bobber Concept. When the first prototype was spotted last year, it bore a lot of resemblance with the concept displayed at EICMA.
    Design Highlights
    Among the two derivatives of the cruiser spotted earlier, one boasts of a traditional cruiser setup with forward-set footpegs, a wide handlebar and a typical low-slung stance. The other one has a more conventional upright seating position with center-set footpegs and slightly shorter handlebars. While the former is expected to wear a brand new name tag, the latter is expected to wear the branding of either Classic 650 or Meteor 650.

    Cruisers generally have a longer wheelbase and low seat height. This combination probably results in lower ground clearance. The latest spy video is credit to way2speed. As can be seen above, the video gives a better idea about the ground clearance of the 650cc Cruiser.
    Design-wise, both motorcycles adopt retro classic elements although the KX650 looks like a proper cruiser while the other one is a classic roadster. The former also wears a fatter 130 section of tyres and a larger rear fender. Common design elements on both bikes include a retro-styled round headlamp, a low split-style saddle and twin exhausts. A pillion backrest could be offered as an accessory on both bikes.
    Expected Hardware, Features & Powertrain
    As mentioned earlier, both bikes will share underpinnings with the current 650cc Twins- Interceptor and Continental GT. However, suspension setup is likely to be different. These cruisers are expected to feature upside down USD forks at front and twin shock absorbers at rear which are mounted at a greater angle than what is seen on 650 Twins.
    RE 650cc cruiser
    Disc brakes on both ends are almost a given. Other features expected to be on offer are dual-channel ABS, slipper and assist clutch and a semi-digital instrument console with a dedicated pod for Tripper Navigation.
    As far as powertrain is concerned, it will draw its power from the familiar 648cc parallel-twin air-cooled motor that cranks out 47 bhp and 52 Nm of peak torque. It will be mated to a six-speed gearbox. More details on these motorcycles are expected to be furnished ahead of their launch. We expect at least one of them hit showrooms by the end of this year. More

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    2021 Royal Enfield Classic 350 Side View Spied – New Exhaust System

    2021 Royal Enfield Classic 350 – New Gen
    The 350 cc single-cylinder engine will be shared with the Meteor

    The next generation Royal Enfield Classic 350 has been spotted testing in its near-production guise once again. This time, the latest spy shot gives us a closer look at the motorcycle and its side view – detailing the new exhaust system. We have learnt that the motorcycle is very close to launch and it could be in the showrooms in a few weeks.
    New Royal Enfield Classic 350
    The new Classic 350 is easily the most anticipated member of Royal Enfield’s next generation family based on the modular J platform. The launch which was originally planned for 2020 was delayed due to several reasons not the least of which is the ongoing pandemic. It seems the Chennai-based retro-classic specialist has sorted out the final details and is geared up to bring in the next iteration in a matter of weeks.
    Based on the spyshots, we can say that nothing much has changed. The current Classic 350 is still the best selling RE even at the very end of its lifespan, strongly indicating that the old-school styling is still popular among loyalists. We do get a slightly revised headlamp cowl, fuel tank and seats. We expect the new Royal Enfield Classic 350 to be equipped with Tripper Navigation system.
    Royal Enfield has recently introduced alloy wheels and dark colour themes for the Classic 350, and these cosmetic features are likely to be carried forward by the next gen model even though the prototypes are equipped with traditional spoke wheels and chrome finished components.
    2021 Royal Enfield Classic 350 New Exhaust System – Catbox has been removed from under the engine. Instead, New Classic 350 will have catalytic converter on inside of the silencer bend pipe.
    Specifications
    Powering the next generation classic roadster will be the new 350 cc SOHC air-cooled, fuel-injected, single-cylinder engine which debuted on the Meteor. With 20.2 hp and 27 Nm of torque, the motor will offer a decent balance between highway performance and fuel efficiency. The transmission will continue to be a 5-speed unit.
    The modern setup in addition to several quality related improvements are expected to make the new Royal Enfield Classic 350 much more refined and robust compared to the outgoing model which is known for its niggles despite its undeniable charm.
    The company added an auxiliary catalytic converter chamber on the exhaust downtube to make the current engine meet the BS6 emission norms. The addition was an ad-hoc solution until the new model arrives. The test mules of next generation model do away with this additional component, thereby reverting to the old sleek exhaust system.
    Prospects
    With an all-new engine and several tangible improvements, the new Royal Enfield Classic 350 is all set to take the best selling nameplate to a new level. It will be supported by a slightly more modern looking roadster called the Hunter 350 which will go after the likes of Honda H’ness CB350. RE’s product onslaught is about to begin. More

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    Royal Enfield 650cc Cruiser KX650 Spied Testing With Pillion

    2021 Royal Enfield 650cc Cruiser
    Royal Enfield is working on at least two new derivatives of its well received 650 cc parallel-twin platform

    Royal Enfield’s product pipeline for this year looks very exiting. The company is in the process of transforming its entire portfolio, representing a clear shift in the paradigm. In order to achieve its long term goal of establishing leadership in the global medium displacement motorcycle segment, Royal Enfield needs to aggressively expand its product lineup, offer cool new features and increase the overall quality. That is exactly what brewing at the brand’s tech centers in India and the UK.
    Royal Enfield cruiser 650
    Following the strong response to its flagship twin-clinder 650 cc models, Royal Enfield is working on variant extensions on this platform in a bid to cater to wider tastes.
    First hint of a new family member was provided in the form of KX bobber concept at the EICMA 2018. After almost two years, first prototypes of a 650 cc twin-cylinder cruiser started to appear in public last year.
    A near production ready prototype of the Royal Enfield cruiser 650 has been spotted up close once again in Chennai, giving us a proper idea on what to expect. The latest spy shot shows the test mule being tested with pillion. It is to be noted that RE is also working on a roadster variant which is sufficiently different from this cruiser as well as the existing Interceptor 650.
    2021 Royal Enfield 650cc Cruiser
    With a low seat height, quintessential feet-forward riding position and a front heavy stance, the Royal Enfield cruiser 650 sticks to the script. The test mule appears to be riding on 19-inch front and 17-inch rear alloy wheels just like the Meteor 350.
    The circular headlamp, turn indicators and taillight set a retro-classic tone and the simple fuel tank (we liked the KX’s unit better though) and instrument dial fit right into the scheme of things. Speaking of the instrument dial, it will incorporate Tripper Navigation system which is currently available in Meteor 350 and updated Himalayan.
    Hardware
    In the interest of economies of scale, Royal Enfield is likely to carry forward the existing 650 cc twin-cylinder, air-cooled, parallel-twin engine which produces 47 hp and 57 Nm of torque in its current state of tune. The 6-speed transmission with tweaked ratios should make for good mile munching. The video gives us a sample of how the motorcycle sounds like and we like what we hear.
    2021 Royal Enfield 650cc Cruiser
    In a first for modern Royal Enfields, the cruiser 650 is equipped with an inverted telescopic front fork. The rear employs traditional twin shock absorbers.
    Rivals
    Globally, the Royal Enfield cruiser 650 will be aimed at the likes of Kawasaki Vulcan 650, Harley Davidson Street, Honda Rebel, and so on. In India, the upcoming medium displacement motorcycle is expected to be have a starting price a shade under INR 3 lakh (ex-showroom), making it a compelling proposition. More