KTM 490 Duke launch, in all probability, in 2022. It could be the first product that may kickstart the 500 platform in the world…
Looks like KTM wants to play in almost every mid capacity displacement. It already sells motorcycles starting from 125 cc, 250 cc to 375 cc in the single cylinder format in India (and the world). These motorcycles are doing excellent business for the brand and if you still have this question “What next?“, KTM has an answer for you.
The Austrian maker is developing a 500cc platform that will obviously spawn multiple motorcycles. KTM has confirmed that it will use a parallel twin-cylinder engine and the best confirmation is that these motorcycles will be developed by KTM but manufacturing will be in India by partner Bajaj at its Chakan facility.
In a latest update, Stefan Pierer, CEO of KTM AG, has revealed that, apart from the 490 Adventure, this 500 platform will also have the streetfighter Duke (likely to be called as 490 Duke). Additionally, Pierer has also shared that the first model will be launched in 2022 without specifying which one.
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Along with being the most popular Duke is also the most versatile brand in the line-up. This poses a big possibility that KTM may debut the 500s with the 490 Duke.
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The 490 Duke will provide a great stepping stone for the company’s 250cc/375cc motorcycle owners and since it will be a twin it is expected to be a worthy upgrade option as well. There have been no spyshots yet but expect the naked to follow similar styling theme of other Dukes!
Source – Le Repaire
