Europe’s second largest motorcycle manufacturer KTM has launched KTM 200 Duke in South India, through its association with Bajaj, and has outlined plans to bring in more models including a ‘street bike’.
Rolling out its recently launched KTM 200 Duke in Hyderabad, it plans to launch the model across the southern market in a phased manner. “The response to the introduction of the bike known for its rustic features and yet refinement, has been very encouraging. There is also demand for these bikes in tier II and III cities, where we plan to grow the dealerships from 32 now,” representatives of KTM said.
Mr Prakhar Muktibodh, Area Sales Manager, KTM South, said that the market for such bikes is estimated at 2,000 a month and is poised to grow with more youngsters upgrading to this category. Currently, KTM, Yamaha and Honda are offering bikes in this category.
“The KTM brand has a wide range of accessories and parts that go well with bike lovers. As a part of expanding the business in India, we are set to bring in these merchandise, including jackets, gloves and helmets,” Mr Prakhar said.
Mr Amit Pawar, Zonal Manager of Bajaj Auto Ltd, said: "The aspirations of young bike lovers is changing and their expectations too. They now want all the features of naked bike in a regular street bike. This means, we will have to offer them what they want with new models.”
Naked bike is a motorcycle with rugged looks where most of the engine and other parts are visible. In the case of a street bike, most of the parts are covered and well protected.