The recent revision in GST structure has forced a strategy reset in India’s two-wheeler space. Manufacturers like Bajaj and KTM are readying downsized engined versions of their existing models. Here are six new KTM and Bajaj motorcycles with 350cc engines set to launch this month. Once launched, these will effectively replace the current 400 and 390 offerings.
The move to downsize engines is driven primarily by the Indian government’s recent revision of Goods and Services Tax (GST). Under the previous regime, two-wheelers were taxed at a flat 28 percent. The new regime introduced in September last year, puts two-wheelers with engine capacities of up to 350cc under an 18% tax slab while higher capacity ones are taxed at 40 percent. This isn’t a marginal difference. It is big enough to push the prices significantly upwards.
Two of Bajaj’s hot-selling models were affected by the revision- the Dominar 400 and the Pulsar NS400Z (which is also the most powerful Pulsar ever produced). KTM’s hot-selling Duke 390, Adventure 390 and RC 390 were affected. Both Bajaj and KTM, however, did not hike prices of these models, and chose to absorb the additional costs until the new models arrive.
Bajaj will launch the Pulsar NS350Z and Bajaj Dominar 350 by mid-April. These are expected to stay close to the Pulsar NS400Z and Dominar 400 with their design and packaging.
The NS400Z and Dominar 400 are both important products for the brand. Bajaj seems to be playing safe with these products- retaining everything that worked- design, features, and positioning, while altering the engine displacement to qualify for lower tax slabs.
The Pulsar NS350Z will get LED lighting, a fully digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation, riding modes, traction control, and dual-channel ABS. The Dominar 350, on the other hand, will retain its muscular stance, twin-pod LED headlamps, split-seat layout, ride-by-wire, improved electronics, enhanced ergonomics, and factory-fitted touring accessories.
Image source: Rushlane
A third, new model has also been spotted testing. It appears to be an adventure motorcycle based on the Dominar platform. It is seen undisguised in the spy images. Now referred to as Dominate X ADVthis motorcycle shows a notable shift in design. It gets a full fairing, tall windscreen, and front beak. The riding position seems to be upright and a wide handlebar and long-travel suspension can also be seen. This motorcycle is also expected to get the 350cc engine.
KTM is not far behind. It will launch the 350cc versions of three popular models- Duke 390, RC 390 and Adventure 390. These, as you know, are naked, supersport and adventure motorcycles. The downsized versions are likely to retain most styling elements and features of respective 390 models.
The ‘new’ 350cc engine expected to do duties on these models, isn’t really new. It is, in fact, a thoroughly reworked version of the existing 398cc engine. The lower displacement will be achieved by reducing the bore while keeping the stroke unchanged. On the Bajaj models, the new engine is expected to produce around 35 hp and 33 Nm. It is claimed to deliver a strong low-end and mid-range punch.
On the KTMs, however, this engine will be able to make around 40 hp and 36 Nm. Its character, in this case, will align with the bikemaker’s performance centric genes. Overall, this is a calculated move, aimed at minimizing development costs while quickly adapting to the new tax structure.
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