BMW Motorrad to enter affordable motorcycle market in India with the two locally-made bikes. The new sub 500 cc bikes are likely to be priced at Rs 2.99 lakh and Rs 3.49 lakh. The bikes will be manufactured at TVS’s plant in India as a part of BMW’s partnership with TVS Motors.

India: BMW Motorrad, the premium motorcycle arm of BMW Group is foraying into the affordable motorcycle market in India with the recent launch of two locally-made bikes. The new sub 500 cc bikes are likely to be priced at Rs 2.99 lakh and Rs 3.49 lakh, which is comparatively less than BMW’s premium models like the K 1600 GTL, which cost as much as a whooping Rs. 28.30 lakh.

Bikers had been expecting the launch of two new models, the G310R and G310 for almost two years, but the launch was delayed because BMW wanted to establish a stronger and wider dealership base before it launched. Motorrad has seven dealerships across the country, and the machines will be sold and serviced through the premium dealer network of BMW Motorrad.

According to the Head of Region (Asia, China, Pacific, South Africa), BMW Motorrad, BMW Motorrad creates motorcycles with a unique appeal, some of which have created a proud history in the world of two-wheelers. Whether it is the performance, quality, or handling, BMW Motorrad captures the pulse of true motorcyclists.

The two bikes come with the standard 313 cc single-cylinder and share the same six-speed gearbox and chassis. The G310R has a top speed of 145 kmph, while the G130GS can touch 143 kmph.

The new models are the first ones from BMW Motorrad to be manufactured in India as part of its partnership with Chennai-based TVS Motors. While the two bikes were developed in Munich, Germany, they were produced at TVS’s Hosur plant, which has supplied 90% of the motorcycle parts. The made in India bikes are on sale in Europe and the U.S., and their deliveries are expected to start from November in India.

The president, BMW Group, India commented that both the new models will bring new customer groups to the world of BMW Motorrad as both the bikes cater to diverse group of customers. For the adventure and fun-seekers the BMW G310GS is the answer. Both the bikes are set to redefine their segment as they are ideal for young people, novices, returning riders, and many other motorcyclists.

BMW G310R will compete with the likes of KTM 390 Duke, and the BMW G310GS with Royal Enfield Himalayan and Kawasaki Versys X-300 in the Indian market.

According to TechSci Research, the latest launch by BMW is expected to have a positive impact on the growth of premium motorcycle market in India. Increasing establishment of Completely Knock Down (CKD) and Semi Knocked Down (SKD) plants for premium motorcycles, expanding distribution network of major players, and declining average selling price of premium motorcycles, demand for premium motorcycles is expected to grow at a robust pace in India in the coming years. Moreover, the growing population of High Net Worth Individuals are the major contributors towards the growing premium motorcycles market in the country. However, with the introduction of two affordable bikes by BMW, the growth of premium bike sales is likely to go up. Additionally, the bike helmet market is also expected to have a positive growth as a result of the new launches.

According to the recently published report by TechSci Research, “India Premium Motorcycles Market By Engine Capacity (500-800cc, 801-1600cc and >1600cc), Competition Forecast & Opportunities, 2013 – 2023”, India premium motorcycles market is projected to reach $ 161 million by 2023, on the back of rising youth population, increasing per capita income, and availability of a wide array of premium motorcycle models and easy financing options. Moreover, increasing number of CKD and SKD units, launch of newer and advanced premium motorcycle brands and models, rising popularity of superbike clubs and communities, and increasing biking culture are among the key factors expected to drive the country’s premium motorcycles market in the coming years.

According to the recently published report by TechSci Research, “India Bike Helmet Market, By Type (MTB Helmet, Road Helmet & Sports Helmet), By Distribution Channel (Showrooms, Supermarket/ Hypermarket, Multi-Brand Stores, Online & Others), Competition Forecast & Opportunities, 2013 – 2023”, India bike helmet market is projected to grow during 2018-2023.  Innovation such as carbon fibre helmet, air cooled technology in helmets, helmets with anti-glare visor, push button and helmet lock features, increasing number of helmet manufacturers and safety rules. Moreover, increasing disposable income, increasing population and growth automobile sector are some of the other factors expected to propel demand for bike helmet over the next five years.

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