The 490cc twin-cylinder KTM models are in the news for quite a long time now. As per one of the latest updates, the Austria-based brand will unveil five twin-cylinder 490cc motorcycles by the end of this year. The upcoming KTM models include the likes of RC 490, Duke 490, 490 Adventure, and 490cc Enduro and Supermoto variants based on the same platform.
According to the details available, India would be getting the 490cc KTM models in the year 2023 and the Duke series would be the first one to get the new 490cc engine in India. Expected to launch as Duke 490, the new motorcycle would be placed above the Duke 390 and will be using a platform similar to the company’s Duke 890.
In addition to the Duke 490, KTM would be launching the RC 490 and Adventure 490 in the Indian markets, and all of the models would be manufactured by Bajaj Auto at their all-new manufacturing facility which will be operational by the end of this year.
The most-selling machine from KTM, Duke is known for its light frame and class-leading power output. KTM RC series offer full-faired, track-specific performance while the Adventure series comes with a dual-purpose design and all-terrain usability. The new 490cc motorcycles will bring a completely new segment into India.
KTM has plans to keep the focus on single and twin-cylinder motorcycles for the coming years. They have seen growth in the 500cc-800cc segment in India and other developing markets and wish to contribute more for performance lovers. The current KTM range of bikes includes Duke 125, Duke 200, Duke 250, Duke 390, RC 125, RC 200, RC 390, 250 Adventure, and 390 Adventure in India.
