Later this week, arguably the biggest motorcycle event in this world, the EICMA 2024, will kick off in Milan, Italy. This year is particularly special for India, especially coming after a devastating sales quarter for two-wheelers, as major brands with a loyal following in the country will launch new models for 2025. Out of them, two are already in the news—Royal Enfield and KTM.
Royal Enfield, the maker of the hit Bullet 350, will launch an update to its Himalayan line, while KTM—a brand that attracts both youngsters and veteran riders—will unveil its latest Adventure motorcycle. This year will also be particularly interesting for the Indian two-wheeler market, with EV brands such as Ola doing impressive volumes and Ather cultivating a strong brand presence and ardent following.
Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 Rally
Royal Enfield’s Himalayan 450 Rally variant is expected to be a crowd-puller. The kit that goes on to the current production Himalayan 450 is said to include a different handlebar, different tail section, headlight grille, a different exhaust flat seat, knuckle guards and some cosmetic items to make the stock model more rugged looking while slightly changing to a tourer.
KTM 390 Adventure R 2025
KTM 390 Adventure R might get its official 2025 version launch and might reach Indian shores by early next year. According to a leaked image by moto scoop, the all-new 2025 edition resembles the 790R and 890R with dual LED projector headlights and a large windscreen.
Four new vehicles from Hero MotoCorp
Hero MotoCorp, despite getting battered this October in the stock market, is all optimistic as it is set to announce not one, or two, but four new two-wheelers at EICMA 2024. Rumour has it that India will get a bigger 250cc XPulse upgrade, larger Xoom scooters, and a new offering from its electric arm, Vida—possibly an electric bike.
Over and above this, we might also see Royal Enfield unveiling a new Classic 650, and there is enough chatter about a “flying flea” electric motorcycle in the air.
Premium superbike brands Ducati, BMW Motorrad, and Aprilia will also showcase new offerings in Milan. However, will these new models make it to India—that is the question. Among them, BMW Motorrad would be on everyone’s radar, given that the company is returning after a three-year hiatus to EICMA.
