KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Suzuki hints at an all-new 350cc-500cc motorcycle in the mid-capacity segment
- Likely to use the proven 398cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder platform already compliant with Euro5+ norms
- Expected to be developed and manufactured in India, at new Kharkhoda plant for global-scale and local production
The 350cc-500cc motorcycle space has never been more competitive in India, and Suzuki appears ready to enter the arena. During a recent interaction at EICMA 2025, senior company executives hinted that a brand-new, accessible, mid-capacity motorcycle is under development. While Suzuki refrained from confirming the format or styling, the message was clear, the brand does not want to sit out of one of the hottest global motorcycling segments, especially as India's demand for modern classics, scramblers, and ADVs continues to surge. Read on to know more about the upcoming plans for a new entrant in the segment, 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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New Suzuki Bike: A Modern-Classic Or Retro Roadster?
With retro-inspired motorcycles dominating sales charts worldwide, Suzuki could very well tap into this popular formula. Royal Enfield's relentless rise, Triumph's rapid success with the 400 twins, BMW's upcoming India-made 450 GS, and KTM's long-standing influence have reshaped expectations in this segment. A stylish, approachable Suzuki bike in the 350-500cc space would instantly find itself in meaningful company.
What direction Suzuki ultimately takes remains under wraps, but industry patterns suggest a modern-classic roadster, scrambler, or even a light ADV could be on the cards. The brand has been largely absent in this segment, and a strategically priced, globally relevant motorcycle could help Suzuki regain lost ground.
Suzuki Already Has The Engine: A 398cc Platform Ready For Adaptation
One of Suzuki's biggest advantages lies in its existing 398cc, liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine that powers the DR-Z4S and DR-Z4SM in global markets. Producing around 37.5 bhp and already compliant with Euro 5+ norms, this engine fits perfectly into the A2-license category in Europe, a major global requirement for motorcycles in this class. Reusing and re-tuning this motor for an all-new Suzuki bike would save Suzuki considerable development time and costs. It also positions the brand to offer a motorcycle that is compatible with international regulations from day one, further strengthening its export potential.
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Suzuki recently inaugurated a massive new plant in Kharkhoda, Haryana, with an initial capacity of 7.5 lakh units annually, a facility capable of supporting both domestic demand and global exports. The 350-500cc space is where India-based brands and collaborations are thriving. Suzuki has produced over nine million two-wheelers in India since 2006, and leveraging this ecosystem for a globally relevant midsize motorcycle seems not just likely, but expected.
Verdict
If Suzuki is indeed preparing a new Suzuki bike in 350cc-500cc segment, it couldn't have chosen a better time. The segment is booming, competition is intense, and buyers are hungry for fresh, refined, reliable options that offer global quality at attainable prices. With a proven 398cc engine, expanding manufacturing capacity, and a clear acknowledgement of global demand, Suzuki appears well-positioned to deliver an exciting new contender. A modern-classic Suzuki or a lightweight ADV could shake up the market in a big way, and inject new energy into a segment that thrives on nostalgia, style and everyday usability. For now, the industry waits, but the signs suggest something meaningful is definitely in motion.
