It all started in 2017 when Bajaj and Triumph announced that they were forming a non-equity partnership to co-develop mid-capacity motorcycles. After three years of silence, a further announcement was made in early 2020 sharing more details on what to expect from these made-in-India motorcycles. And then the pandemic arrived.
- More than one motorcycle expected
- Will be aiming to take on Royal Enfield
Over three years later, we finally appear to be at the cusp of witnessing these motorcycles for the first time. Bajaj has just revealed that it has taken over the entire existing Triumph business in India and has shared some ambitious plans, including expanding the current 15 dealerships to 200 in the next two years. Click here to read more about that.
But what about the motorcycles themselves? Plenty of Bajaj Triumph spy shots have emerged over the past few months showing some handsome motorcycles that have modern-retro designs, both in Roadster and Scrambler form. Word has it that Bajaj and Triumph are developing the new platforms in two different engine capacities although the exact specifications are not clear.
Back in 2020, the company had suggested that the partnership would debut with a 200cc motorcycle with a price tag under Rs 2 lakh, but that may well have changed since. Both Bajaj and Triumph will undoubtedly be looking to take on Royal Enfield with these motorcycles so the 350cc mark definitely cannot be discounted.
With Bajaj having now announced its takeover of Triumph’s India operations, we believe that the official unveiling of these motorcycles isn’t far down the road. We expect to see Triumph unveil the first of the co-developed motorcycles soon and that sales should begin in India in time for the festive season.
Also see:
Bajaj NS200, NS160 review
Triumph Street Triple R, Street Triple RS review