Honda Two-Wheeler India had launched the new CB350 range – H’ness CB350 and the CB350RS – in the end of 2020. These motorcycles are positioned against the Royal Enfield Classic range, and received positive response from buyers. Classic Legends re-introduced the JAWA nameplate to grab some market share in the 300-350cc segment, which is currently ruled by Royal Enfield.
Benelli launched the Imperiale 400 in the same space. Seeing the growing demand of this segment, brands like Hero MotoCorp, TVS Motor Company and Bajaj Auto are planning to launch their respective cruisers and classics in India in the sub-500cc category. In fact, Suzuki is also preparing a new 250cc cruiser motorcycle based on the Gixxer 250 platform. The new motorcycle is likely to be called the Intruder 250.
Media reports claim that Hero will retail high-end bikes under its own nameplate in India. These bikes will be made for Harley Davidson, and will come with the engine capacity ranging from 500cc to above. The new motorcycles will be developed under the new Hero-Harley tie-up, and will be sold under the Harley Davidson and Hero MotoCorp brand names. In fact, work on the new motorcycles have already been commenced.
Bajaj-Triumph – It is no secret that Bajaj Auto and Triumph are working on affordable motorcycle range for India as well as global markets. The new bikes are reportedly to be launched under the Triumph badge, and will be produced at the Bajaj’s new production facility in Chakan, Maharashtra. The JV could introduce a neo-retro styled classic motorcycle to rival the likes of the RE Classic, Jawa and the Honda CB350. The new motorcycle will be designed and developed on the new vehicle platform with engine capacities ranging from 200cc to 750cc. The motorcycle will be produced by Bajaj’s Chakan plant and will be sold under the Triumph nameplate. Previous reports claim that the new bikes could also use Triumph’s ‘heritage’ names. These bikes will be produced for India as well as international markets.
TVS Motor Company – The homegrown two-wheeler brand is also working on new cruiser motorcycle, which is expected to be based on the Zeppelin concept unveiled at the 2018 Auto Expo. The company has trademarked the name ‘Zeppelin R’, which is expected to be positioned in the 250-300cc power cruiser segment. It is reportedly to feature 250cc or 310cc powerful engine.
