In a huge development, KTM has confirmed that it is planning a 500 cc twin-cylinder model for the Indian market. Stefan Pierer, CEO at KTM, has stated that the new KTM twin cylinder 500 cc platform is being developed and partner Bajaj Auto will be manufacturing this at its Indian facility. The new platform will help KTM achieve its goals of becoming the third biggest sportsbike maker globally behind Honda and Yamaha by 2020. There is no official word on the type of motorcycle but going by recent trends the same engine/platform could be used for all types – naked, faired and even an adventure motorcycle.
Pierer has stated that KTM will continue focusing on twin and single cylinder bikes for now and he added that right now the 790 Adventure sales is top priority for them. The target is to sell at least 15,000 units of the same in 2019. He also stated that a two cylinder machine will arrive from KTM in the middle class category which will be produced by Bajaj for the Indian market.
He also stated that homologation issues are yet to be tackled and adding to this in the year 2024, there will be noise regulations coming to the forefront. He also talked of how success in Asia, particularly the Indian market, was imperative for any major motorcycle brand today.
