Bajaj Auto will continue retailing the 399cc KTM 390 Duke and Adventure models alongside their upcoming 350cc versions in India, as the company moves to adapt to revised GST regulations.
While the downsized 350cc motorcycles are being developed to benefit from the lower 18 percent GST slab, the existing 390cc models will remain on sale for the time being. Bajaj will assess customer response before deciding on a long-term strategy.
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GST Impact Drives Engine Downsizing
Motorcycles above 350cc now attract a significantly higher 40 percent GST, prompting manufacturers to reconsider engine capacities. In response, Bajaj is working on 350cc versions of the KTM 390 range, Triumph 400 lineup, Dominar 400 and Pulsar NS400Z.
However, unlike the Triumph models, which are expected to transition exclusively to 350cc engines in India, KTM’s Duke and Adventure models will be available in both 350cc and 399cc forms.
This means customers visiting KTM showrooms in the future will have the option of choosing between the lower-tax 350cc versions and the higher-capacity 390 models.
KTM 390 Duke and Adventure to Continue
The KTM 390 Duke and Adventure will continue production for domestic and export markets. Since these motorcycles are already exported in their current specification, production lines will not be discontinued.
The move allows Bajaj to retain the strong brand equity associated with the 390 badge, particularly among performance-oriented buyers.
It remains unclear what decision will be taken regarding the RC 390, which still uses the older 373cc engine.
Triumph Lineup to Shift to 350cc
In contrast, Bajaj-manufactured Triumph single-cylinder models are likely to be sold only with the new 350cc engine in India. The recently revealed Triumph Tracker 400 is also expected to arrive in India in a 350cc form.
This marks a strategic distinction between the Triumph and KTM portfolios under Bajaj’s manufacturing partnership.
What This Means for Buyers
For customers, this approach provides greater flexibility. Those seeking lower acquisition costs may opt for the 350cc models, which benefit from reduced taxation. Meanwhile, riders prioritising performance can continue choosing the 390cc versions, albeit at a higher price due to taxation.
The KTM 390 Duke, for instance, is currently priced at approximately ₹3.36 lakh (on-road). It produces 45hp and 39Nm, and remains one of the most accessible performance-oriented motorcycles in its segment.
Key KTM 390 Duke Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 399cc, single-cylinder |
| Max Power | 45 hp |
| Max Torque | 39 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Petrol |
| ABS | Supermoto ABS |
| Lighting | LED |
Strategy Under Review
Bajaj will monitor market response to the dual-engine strategy before making further decisions. The company’s approach indicates an effort to balance taxation realities with brand positioning and customer expectations.
For now, both 350cc and KTM 390 Duke and Adventure models are set to coexist in India, offering buyers a broader range of options within the premium mid-capacity segment.
Disclaimer: Prices mentioned are indicative and may vary by city. Engine specifications and model availability are subject to change. Buyers are advised to check with authorised dealerships for the latest details.
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Raj Prajapati is a Senior Automotive Content Writer at AutoIndiaDaily. A B.Tech graduate in Computer Science and Engineering, he has over four years of experience covering car and bike launches, EV updates, price changes, and key developments in the Indian automobile industry.
