KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- KTM 390 models to remain on sale alongside new 350cc versions
- Move driven by revised GST rules above 350cc
- Triumph 400 lineup likely to shift entirely to 350cc
Bajaj Auto's strategy to realign its mid-capacity motorcycle portfolio below the 350cc mark is now clearer. While the company is preparing to introduce downsized 350cc versions of its existing 400cc platforms to benefit from the revised 18 percent GST bracket, the current KTM 390 models will not disappear immediately. Instead, both 350cc and 390cc versions of select KTM motorcycles are expected to be sold simultaneously in India, at least for the near future. Read on to find out more details, but before that, make sure to join the 91wheels WhatsApp Community, specifically curated for petrolheads like us to keep up with the latest news and automotive updates.
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Dual Strategy: KTM 390 Range To Retail Alondside Newer 350cc Models
Under India's updated GST structure, motorcycles above 350cc now attract a significantly higher 40 percent tax rate. To remain price competitive, Bajaj is developing new 350cc derivatives of its 400cc platforms. This move impacts KTM, Triumph, and Bajaj-branded models such as the Dominar 400 and Pulsar NS400Z. However, unlike the Triumph 400 lineup, which is expected to transition entirely to 350cc in India, KTM's strategy appears more flexible. The 399cc KTM 390 Duke and 390 Adventure are likely to continue on sale alongside their upcoming 350cc counterparts. This dual-engine approach will allow Bajaj to gauge customer demand before making long-term decisions about discontinuing the larger displacement variants.
The KTM 390 Duke and 390 Adventure will remain the flagship single-cylinder offerings in India for now. It remains unclear how the RC 390, which continues to use the older 373cc engine, will fit into this transition strategy. On the Triumph side, the 400cc range is expected to be re-engineered to 350cc specification for India. The recently revealed Triumph Tracker 400 is also likely to arrive in India as a 350cc model rather than retaining its original displacement.
New Triumph Range To Ditch 400cc Line-up
The new Triumph 350cc range is likely to draw heavily from the brand's current 398cc single-cylinder platform that underpins the Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X. To position the engine below the 350cc threshold, Bajaj and Triumph are expected to revise internal dimensions, potentially through changes to the bore or stroke. While the fundamental engine layout should remain intact, the powertrain will likely undergo fresh tuning to preserve Triumph's characteristic performance feel. A slight reduction in peak output is expected due to the lower displacement, but the motorcycles should retain the familiar chassis dynamics, hardware, and overall riding character of the existing 400cc models, which will likely be pulled off the shelves.
Verdict
Bajaj's decision to sell 350cc and 390cc KTM models side by side reflects a cautious yet calculated approach. Rather than abruptly eliminating higher-displacement models, the company is allowing market forces to dictate long-term viability. If customers continue to value the extra performance of the 390s despite higher taxation, those models could remain relevant. However, if pricing sensitivity dominates the segment, the 350cc variants may gradually take centre stage. Either way, KTM's mid-capacity portfolio in India is entering a significant transition phase that might even push up the volume numbers with these lower capacity motorcycles.
Source- Autocar India
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