Key highlights
- KTM 490 models to launch in India
- Duke and Adventure bikes to get launched initially
- To be manufactured at Bajaj’s Chakan plant
It is no hidden fact that KTM is developing a new twin-cylinder platform in collaboration with Bajaj. This new platform will house a number of upcoming models, and it will be launched in India next year. Know more details about this platform below.
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KTM 490 models coming next year: What to expect?
A latest online media report claims that the upcoming sub-500cc twin-cylinder platform of KTM will be badged KTM 490. However, this does not mean that it will be a 490cc engine, but we can expect the engine capacity to be in the same ballpark due to the name.
This new engine will be a twin-cylinder liquid-cooled motor, and it will house a number of models, initially including the Duke and the ADV. These bikes will also be sold in Europe and manufactured in India.The
European market requires the A2 License certification, which further clarifies that this engine will generate around 48 bhp or less power. This further hints that a twin-cylinder making less than 48 bhp will offer a butter-smooth performance and a meaty mid-range.
The online report also states that the 490 platform will also find its way in other models, probably including the Husqvarna 501 and RC 490. The first production prototype of the 490 platform will be unveiled at EICMA 2027.
With the introduction of this new engine, KTM will have a better and wider market share in the mid-capacity high-performance motorcycles in India. It will also continue to sell the 350cc bikes, which were recently launched with the 390 branding.
