KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Bajaj decides to absorb the GST hike on bikes above 350cc
- KTM motorcycles 390 series and Triumph 400cc bikes continue without a price increase
- On the flipside, motorcycles under 350cc gets GST 2.0 benefits and prices are down by upto Rs 20,000
The recent GST revision has shaken up the two-wheeler market, especially for motorcycles with engines above 350cc. While most manufacturers are busy revising their prices upward to match the new 40% GST slab, Bajaj Auto has taken a contrarian route. In a surprising yet strategic decision, the company will absorb the additional tax burden for its premium offerings, namely Triumph's 400 and KTM motorcycles 390 range, ensuring prices remain unchanged for Indian customers, whereas the prices for sub-350cc bikes have been reduced to pass on the benefits. Read more about this move by Bajaj and what underlines it, 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.
Also Read- Kawasaki India Revises Price Of Entire Portfolio- Passes On GST 2.0 Benefits
Triumph & KTM Prices Remain Unaffected
Unlike rivals such as Royal Enfield and Honda, Bajaj has confirmed that it will not hike ex-showroom prices for the locally manufactured Triumph and KTM motorcycles. This means the Triumph Speed 400 continues at Rs. 2.5 lakh, the Scrambler 400 X between Rs. 2.68-2.94 lakh, and the recently launched Thruxton 400 at Rs. 2.74 lakh. The larger Speed T4 also holds steady at Rs. 1.99 lakh.
For KTM, flagship models like the 390 Duke (Rs. 2.97 lakh), RC 390 (Rs. 3.23 lakh), and 390 Adventure X (Rs. 3.04 lakh) remain at their pre-GST pricing. Even the 390 Adventure continues at Rs. 3.68 lakh, while the Enduro R stands at Rs. 3.39-3.53 lakh depending on specification. This decision instantly boosts the value equation against competitors, the KTM 390 Adventure X now undercuts the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450, while the Triumph Speed 400 remains cheaper than the Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450.
GST 2.0: Relief for Sub-350cc Motorcycles
While holding ground on its premium range, Bajaj has also passed on the full benefit of the GST reduction for motorcycles below 350cc. The tax rate for this category has dropped from 28% to 18%, translating into price cuts of up to Rs. 20,000 across the portfolio. This applies to the Pulsar range, Dominar 250, Avenger series, and commuter favorites like the Platina and CT. On the KTM side, models such as the Duke 160/200/250, RC 200, and 250 Adventure also see sharper pricing, further enhancing their appeal to younger and first-time buyers.
Interestingly, Triumph Motorcycles, with support from Bajaj Auto, is preparing to enter the crucial 350cc segment in India within the next six to eight months, likely by March. This move comes in response to revised GST norms that favor sub-350cc motorcycles, making Triumph's current 400cc lineup less competitive. The new engine will be a downsized version of the existing 400cc single, optimized for better low- and mid-range torque at the expense of outright power. Expected models include the Speed 350, Scrambler 350, and the new T4, all built in India. While the 400cc range may phase out locally, the 350cc lineup will aim to keep Triumph accessible, competitive against rivals like Royal Enfield, and aligned with the brand's premium positioning.
Verdict
Bajaj's decision to hold prices for Triumph and KTM is not just a goodwill gesture, it's a calculated move. By absorbing the tax hike, the company ensures its premium motorcycles maintain their competitiveness against Royal Enfield, Honda, and even Japanese middleweight rivals. At the same time, the price cuts on sub-350cc models strengthen Bajaj and KTM's reach in the mass segment, where affordability and value drive volume sales.
Source- Autocar
