2016 was a pretty riveting year in terms of motorcycles, with some compelling new machinery making its way into various segments. It set the tone for an exciting 2017 – here’s a look at some of the new bikes that it could bring with itself.
BMW G310R
Developed in association with TVS, BMW’s upcoming two-wheeler was the apple of everyone’s eye at the 2016 Auto Expo in Delhi. The 313cc, premium streetfighter will see the light of day in the country early this year, and is expected to carry a sticker price of around Rs 2.5 lakh.
KAWASAKI W800
Kawasaki will feature this retro-styled motorcycle, given the newfound success of Triumph’s Bonneville twins. So if you’re looking for a modern bike with a round headlight, a sculpted tank and spoke wheels, this 773cc offering could well be on the top of your shopping list.
BENELLI 302R
The Italian manufacturer has made the most of India’s increasing preference for premium motorcycles, and is set to further lure early 30-somethings with this fully-faired offering. The 300cc bike will be launched early this year and will come with a price tag of around Rs 3 lakh (ex-showroom).
TRIUMPH STREET SCRAMBLER
The Brit bike manufacturer is looking all set to bring another one of its retro-modern offerings to India in the first half of 2017. This 900cc machine is the fifth model in the Street Twin family, and will definitely make your girlfriend jealous, with its classic, sultry appeal.
KTM 390 DUKE
With the performance of an ox and the looks of a fennec fox, the Duke has been a huge hit with young Indian men. In its 2017 iteration, the bike could go one step further, with more aggressive styling and features like the segment-first LED twin-split headlight, ride-by-wire throttle and a full TFT dash.
BENELLI TRK 502
Affordability has been one of the key USPs of Benelli in India, as it now aims to offer the same to thrill-seeking riders. The Ducati-inspired 500cc adventure tourer will break cover in India very soon, and could carve a niche for itself at an ex-showroom price of around Rs 5.5 lakh.
HUSQVARNA VITPILEN 401
If tourers, cruisers and sports bikes don’t do it for you, don’t worry. This year will also witness the entry of the Husqvarna motocross brand in India, soon after the recent Kawasaki KX series launch. The Vitpilen 401 will also be accompanied by the Svartpilen 401, and the bikes will be retailed through KTM stores in the country from early this year.
TRIUMPH BOBBER
Another droolworthy Triumph which is on its way to India in 2017 is the voluptuous Bobber, which was unveiled a couple of months ago. Carrying modern technology and a 1200cc heart under its classic skin, the bike will reportedly arrive in India by February and will set you back by around Rs 10 lakh (exshowroom).
KAWASAKI NINJA 650
The Japanese bikemaker plans to take the Indian motorcycle market by storm with four new motorcycles in January. Leading the lineup will be the updated Ninja 650, which has enjoyed its share of popularity in the country. The sports tourer has been completely rebuilt and could be yours for around Rs 5.5 lakh (ex-showroom).
DUCATI MONSTER 1200
In all honesty, we’ve all had inappropriate thoughts about this marvellous Monster. In its latest avatar, which was unveiled in Italy earlier last year, the bike gets state-of-the-art machinery and has all the makings of a dream motorcycle for the thrill seeker, with a meaty 152PS of power on offer.
