One of the most hotly anticipated motorcycles for the Indian market finally made its way into the spotlight at the 2014 Auto Expo; the Bajaj Pulsar SS400 (earlier represented as the Pulsar 375). Bajaj, however, shocked and awed the eager crowd by bringing in the smashing CS400 sports tourer concept.
Following the 400 twins in Bajaj’s new range of modern, performance-focused motorcycles is the SS200. It will be launched sometime this year. The model has been spied on test near Bajaj’s manufacturing facility in Chakan, Pune. Giving company to this smaller-displacement Pulsar on test were the equally awaited KTM RC 390 and the RC 200.
The SS200 is the fully-faired version for the existing Pulsar 200NS. Designed to offer super-sport motorcycle like experience, the SS200 gets clip-on handlebars and a slightly sporty riding position. It shares the same 200NS-derived 200cc engine but with fuel injection to improve throttle response and fuel efficiency. Additionally, Bajaj is expected to offer longer gear ratios to enhance the bike’s long-distance touring abilities. When launched, the SS200 will compete with the Yamaha R15 V 2.0 and the Honda CBR150R.
As for the RC 390 and the RC 200, KTM first took the covers off both the bikes at the 2013 EICMA event in Milan, Italy. The RC 390 and the RC 200 – which are fully-faired versions of the standard Duke 390 and the Duke 200 – will be manufactured at Bajaj’s Chakan plant and exported worldwide.
The RC 390 is powered by a 373cc single cylinder engine that puts out 43bhp while the RC 200 uses a 200cc unit developing around 25bhp. Both the bikes come paired with a 6-speed gearbox. Expect KTM to launch both these bikes by around mid-2014.
Source: Motoroids
