Upcoming BS6 Two-wheelers From KTM

[KTM has launched its entire BS6 range. Click here to know prices and details]

The BS6 updates are likely to bring a few cosmetic and feature additions

A couple of two-wheeler manufacturers have already begun transitioning from BS4 to BS6 emission norms, which are set to kick in from April 1, 2020. However, a few of them including KTM still need to initiate the process. That said, there isn’t a lot that needs to be changed in KTM’s lineup as the current-gen bikes already come with fuel-injection and an ECU. All that needs altering is the catalytic converter, along with minor tweaks to the engine, and the addition of a new engine map. 

KTM 125 Duke and RC 125:

The Austrian brand’s entry-level bikes, which look identical to its 200cc siblings, are likely to be the most affected by the BS6 transition. Expect to see a massive drop in performance in a bid to achieve lower tailpipe emissions. At present, both the bikes make 14.95 PS at 9250rpm and 12Nm at 8000rpm, mated to a 6-speed transmission. New colour schemes could be on the cards.

KTM 200 Duke and RC 200:

The 200 Duke is the bike that set the stage for KTM in India, followed by the RC range. The six-year-old motor powering the 200cc range would require a significant amount of work to meet BS6 regulations. Additionally, KTM could get rid of the underbelly exhaust system and trade it in for a side-mounted unit just like the 390 Duke. Likewise, the RC 200 is expected to get an updated BS6 engine along with minor cosmetic changes. A price bump of around Rs 8,000 to Rs 10,000 is expected for all the four models.

KTM 250 Duke:

The 250 Duke currently sold in India is a BS4-compliant model. It is likely to feature an engine update along with a new TFT dash that's seen on the 250 Adventure, which was spotted testing in India. Thanks to this, we could expect a price hike of around Rs 15,000 over the BS4 model.

Also, expect KTM to bring in the 250 Adventure next year. It follows the same design language as the 390 Adventure, albeit, a halogen headlamp and lower-spec underpinnings. 

KTM 390 Duke and RC 390:

The rest of the 390 range will be updated early next year to comply with BS6 norms. Currently, the 390 Adventure is the only bike in the KTM arsenal to comply with the regulations. The RC 390, on the other hand, has been trailing behind the Duke when it comes to advancement in technology and equipment. That said, we expect the BS6 update for the RC range to bring with it a TFT display with smartphone connectivity and potential electronic rider aids as well. That aside, 2020 KTM RC 390 is likely to get a complete overhaul with more comfortable ergos. 

Not a lot will change for the 390 Duke aside from an updated motor. It’s already a well-equipped motorcycle, but we could expect to see electronic rider aids to be added to the mix since the bike already features ride-by-wire throttle and a TFT dash. The RC 390's comprehensive update may reel in a price hike of around Rs 20,000, while the streetfighter could become dearer by around Rs 10,000.

KTM 790 Adventure:

The 790 Adventure is already on sale in international markets and will make it to India next year with an updated 799cc parallel-twin motor. It features proper off-road kit including a 21-inch/18-inch wire-spoke wheel setup, 200mm of suspension travel at both ends, and 233mm of ground clearance on offer. 

You also get a comprehensive IMU-based electronics package tailored for light off-road riding. Expect KTM to introduce the 790 Adventure in India towards the end of next year.