350cc KTM, Pulsar in development, 2013 possible launch

Two-wheeler major, Bajaj Auto is planning to launch higher engine cc of the KTM and Pulsar models.

Bajaj will launch bigger and more powerful Pulsar and KTM motorcycle models in the 200cc to 700cc range over the next few years to take on rivals Honda, Yamaha and Suzuki and build on its leadership position in the premium motorcycle space.

Expect a lot of fireworks from Bajaj in the coming years. The company is positioning itself as a strong motorcycle maker and may also consider power scooters in the coming years. The new Pulsar 200NS will soon hit the market by April. We expect it to get a price tag of around 75-80k.

Bajaj aims to position the Pulsar in the value-for-money sports bike segment and Austrian partner KTM’s motorcycles at the premium end of the market.

“There will be a 350 cc Duke next year, so you can expect something similar with the Pulsar next year. And going forward, in 2014-15 there will be even bigger KTM and even bigger Pulsar,” Bajaj said. Bajaj said the company will come out with 350cc Pulsar next year and it is exploring even bigger motorcycles under the Pulsar brand.

“We share the same development process with KTM, so you can expect there will be ‘a much bigger Pulsar’ next year, because we think the market is at an inflection point (at the premium end) and we are in a good position to take advantage with these two brands,” managing director Rajiv Bajaj said

The company is gearing up with the capacity of 1 00,000 units at its Chakan plant to cater the new range of Pulsars and KTM motorcycles. The two companies are likely to jointly bring in 350 cc and 690 cc motorcycles under the Bajaj banner over the next few years.

The next generation Pulsar motorcycles (200cc, 350 cc and above) will co-exist with the current range of Pulsars.

The market is growing, yet it forms less than 1% of the overall motorcycle market in the country. The sports bike category will continue to grow in double digits and there will be takers, yet it will form only 1%-2% of the market and it will be niche category.