KTM CEO has confirmed to the International media that a new KTM 500cc Twin-cylinder bike is launching soon. It will be manufactured by Bajaj Auto in India.
Earlier we reported that Bajaj and KTM are planning to develop a new KTM 500cc twin-cylinder engine bike for the global as well as Indian markets. The news has been confirmed by the brand’s CEO to the International media.
KTM CEO states that the mid-capacity segment, including 500-800cc motorcycles, are the next big thing. For all the emerging markets, this particular segment is the premium one.
What we don’t know is that whether this new KTM 500cc bike will take form in the Duke shape or the RC shape. From what we can tell, the Duke 500cc bike is confirmed. The same in RC series might be bought later on.
Also Read: Honda CB300R Vs KTM Duke 390 – Specification Comparison
Because of the increasing trend of big adventure motorcycles, there are some chances of the 500cc engine going under a mid-capacity adventure motorcycle. Currently, it has 390 Adventure and 790 Adventure in the mid-segment.
In India, Bajaj manufactures and retails Bajaj bikes in India. The Indian-brand helps KTM with localized parts and other elements to keep the cost in tow, specially for the budget-aimed Indian market.
Being a KTM 500cc twin-cylinder bike, we can expect the power figures to be around 60 BHP. The torque figures could be around 50-52 Nm. Like the other bikes, it can be mated to a 6-speed gearbox with slip and assist clutch.
Also Read: KTM Duke 790 spotted in India; launch expected in March 2019
The styling of the KTM 500cc bike will be inspired by Duke 790. So you cann expect the split LED headlamps, a more aggressive design, the handle-bar end mirrors and more styling cues.
For suspension purposes, it will use the same WP USD Forks at the front and adjustable monoshock unit at the back. For braking, it will be equipped with a front and rear disc brake with dual-channel ABS from Bosch.
If it launches in India, expect the prices to be around Rs 4 Lakhs. Currently, Duke 390 goes for Rs 2.3 Lakhs. We can easily expect a considerable premium over the Duke 390.
Also Read: KTM 390 Adventure – Expected Launch Date, Price, Specs And Features
It will compete with the likes of Kawasaki Z650, Royal Enfield 650 Twins, BMW G 310 R, Benelli TNT600i and Hyosung GT650R.
