KTM 650 Duke In Development, Will Be Made In India By Bajaj

KTM is taking aim at the mid-range motorcycle segment as accordingly to reports its developing an all-new 650 Duke. Developed in collaboration with long-time partner Bajaj Auto, the 650 Duke marks a strategic shift for KTM towards more accessible motorcycles. The upcoming KTM 650 cc will be manufactured by Bajaj at its Chakan facility on the outskirts of Pune. 

This move comes after a period of steady growth for KTM, with a slight sales dip in 2023 prompting a strategic review. The company seeks to expand its offerings in core segments while entering high-margin markets.

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A New Duke Takes Center Stage

The KTM 650 Duke positions itself as a rival to the popular Yamaha MT-07. To be built by Bajaj using KTM-supplied components in India, the 650 Duke is expected to feature a detuned version of the 790 Duke's LC8c parallel-twin engine, offering less power than the single-cylinder 690 SMC.

Early prototypes hint at a more relaxed riding position compared to the sportier 790 Duke. This is achieved through revised handlebars and footpeg placements, catering to a wider range of riders.

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Spring 2026 Launch Expected

Design work is still underway for the 650 Duke, with a focus on integrating the various KTM parts into a cohesive package. The motorcycle is expected to be unveiled by Spring 2026.

The arrival of the new 650 Duke expands KTM's naked bike lineup significantly. Ranging from the KTM 125 Duke to the monstrous 1390 Super Duke R Evo, the Austrian brand now offers a motorcycle for nearly every rider and budget.

Whether the 790 Duke will be discontinued to make way for the 650 Duke remains unclear. Regardless, this collaboration with Bajaj Auto signals KTM's commitment to entering new market segments with high-quality, accessible motorcycles. Since the bike is being built in India, there's a high possibility that the KTM 650 Duke would be launched in our market too. 

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