KTM Duke 200 unveiled in Malaysia soon to reach India as well

The KTM Sportmotorcycle AG, an Austrian motorcycle manufacturer had its KTM Duke 200 motorbike unveiled by the Malaysian Prime minister Mr Najib Tun Razak recently. India is to be considered lucky to get a flavour of the Austrian Engineering as the domestic auto brand Bajaj Auto prepares to introduce the KTM bikes in India. The KTM Duke 200 is expected to be introduced in the Indian market in the 2012 Indian Auto Expo, following the production of the units that is to begin early next year.  

The KTM Duke 200 bike that is to be assembled at the KTM’s Malaysian assembly unit supplied as a CKD unit from the Chakan plant of Bajaj Auto. The KTM Duke 200 unveiled in Malaysia suggests a price of RM 15,000-18,000, which when converted gives KTM Duke 200 price of Rs 2.25- 3 lakhs. Hopefully, with the home grown production of the motorbike at Chakan plant, the KTM Duke price is speculated to come down to Rs 1.2 lakhs

The 45 mm reversed front forks and monoshock rear will be available as a standard, while the motorbike might be capable of accommodating just two people. The 17” tyres are a major attraction with 110 section up front and 150 section at the rear. The powerful bike in under 140 kg category, the KTM Duke 200 is expected to be an extraordinary performer, not only in power, but also supposed to be good in handling.

The KTM’s Malaysian assembly plant has been successful in assembling just three models of the KTM Duke 200, mainly for showcasing purpose. The images obtained from the unveiling ceremony held in Malaysia, show that the motorbike has taken after the KTM Duke 125 as far as the components go. However, as the name suggests, the engine of the KTM Duke 200 is different, with 200cc four-stroke, liquid cooled, fuel injected engine. A four valve ensemble with double overhead camshafts could also be a part of the engine. The engine should ideally produce a maximum power output of 22-24 Bhp beating the Bajaj Pulsar in the run that produces a peak power of 21 Bhp. With an attractive price tag of Rs 1.2 lakhs, the KTM Duke 200 is likely to take upon the Honda CBR 250 R and its likes.