Pune-headquartered two-wheeler and three-wheeler major Bajaj Auto has announced a strategic move to revive and reshape the future of KTM, by acquiring a controlling stake in the Austrian motorcycle manufacturer, subject to regulatory approvals. This marks a significant shift from Bajaj’s previous role as a minority investor to a leading force in KTM’s global operations.

The move comes amid KTM’s ongoing debt restructuring process, triggered by severe liquidity issues that hampered its day-to-day operations. Through its Dutch subsidiary, Bajaj Auto International Holdings (BAIHBV), Bajaj has arranged a debt funding package of EUR 800 million to support KTM’s recovery and growth. Of this, EUR 200 million has already been infused, with the remaining EUR 600 million being deployed now.

For the unversed, KTM, along with its subsidiaries, entered court-supervised restructuring in November 2024 after failing to manage its rising debt. A plan approved by creditors in February 2025 mandates a 30 percent payout of claims by 23 May 2025. If this payment is not made on time, KTM could be pushed into insolvency.

The funds raised by Bajaj will cover these creditor payments and revive operations. Once payments are confirmed by the Austrian court, the restructuring process is expected to conclude by mid-June 2025.

Path to Ownership

Bajaj currently holds an indirect 37.5 percent stake in Pierer Mobility (PMAG), the parent company of KTM. The proposed deal involves Bajaj acquiring full control of Pierer Bajaj (PBAG), which holds a majority in PMAG. This change in ownership structure will proceed once necessary approvals are obtained from Austrian regulatory bodies.

In a related transaction, Bajaj has also taken over a EUR 80 million loan agreement originally signed by a Pierer group company to prevent complications that might jeopardise the restructuring.

• The EUR 800 million debt package is structured in two parts:
• EUR 200 million: Already disbursed in four tranches during FY2024 and early 2025.
• EUR 600 million: Now being deployed – includes a EUR 450 million secured loan to KTM AG and EUR 150 million in convertible bonds routed through PBAG to support working capital and creditor payments.

These funds were raised via bank loans by BAIHBV and internal contributions from Bajaj Auto.

With the immediate goal of concluding the restructuring process and restarting production, Bajaj is preparing for a broader transformation of KTM’s operations. Key upcoming steps include:

• Revamping KTM’s governance and reconstituting its board.
• Launching a turnaround strategy to restore business momentum.
• Expanding the existing India-based joint development and manufacturing program.
• Exploring strategic partnerships for long-term growth.

Bajaj’s expanded role in KTM is expected to drive global expansion, elevate the brand’s premium image and boost innovation in high-performance motorcycle technologies.

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Japanese two-wheeler major India Yamaha Motor (IYM) has introduced five-year Roadside Assistance (RSA) program, as part of its 40-year milestone in India.

The program will offer customers an extended RSA program for five years at just INR 975, which will bring forth peace-of-mind, especially during an unforeseen on-road emergency.

The company will provide – towing support in case of breakdown or accident, battery jumpstart assistance, flat tyre support, running repair services for minor issues and medical assistance in case of emergencies.

The new initiative will further complement Yamaha’s recent 10-year ‘Total Warranty Program’, which offers customers to get 2+8 years extended warranty.

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TVS Motor Company, a leading two-wheeler manufacturer, has introduced the TVS Jupiter 125 Dual Tone SmartXonnect (SXC) at prices starting INR 88,942 (ex-showroom Delhi). The newest variant in the TVS Jupiter line-up comes with dual-tone colour options – Ivory- Brown and Ivory-Grey – and newly designed seat.

The Jupiter features the new signature LED headlamp and alloy wheels. It is powered by a 124.8 cc single-cylinder engine, producing 11.1 Nm torque at 4,500 rpm with iGO Assist technology.

For comfort, it has a long seat with a pillion backrest. Convenience features include 33-litre under-seat storage, front fuel-fill, and a 2-litre front open glove box. The Jupiter is equipped with a digital console that displays call and SMS alerts, mileage indicators, low fuel warnings and a trip meter. It is equipped with larger front and rear tyres for stability and road grip.

Aniruddha Haldar, Senior Vice President — Head Commuter & EV Business and Head Corporate Brand & Media, TVS Motor Company, said, “Today’s customers are not just buying a scooter, they are investing in a reflection of their progressiveness. After the successful launch of TVS Jupiter 110, it made perfect sense to give the TVS Jupiter 125 a fresh update. The TVS Jupiter 125 Dual Tone SXC represents that evolution, delivering an optimum mix of performance, comfort, and advanced connectivity. With this launch, we reinforce our ‘Zyada’ philosophy, giving our riders more of everything that matters.”

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ICRA, a leading investment information and credit rating agency, estimates that two-wheeler sales volume in India will grow between 6 percent to 9 percent YoY in FY2026.

The company stated that in April 2025, the domestic two-wheeler wholesales came at 1.39 million units, which was 18.8 percent lower, on the back of production shutdown undertaken by some OEMs for supply chain alignment and scheduled maintenance.

On the other hand, the retail sales remain steady registering a growth of 2 percent for the same period. The offtake was supported by the festive season (Chaitra Navratri, Akshay Tritiya, Baisakhi), which also translated to a sequential growth of around 12 percent.

Interestingly, it points out that electric two-wheelers continue to register a strong growth and maintain its 5-6 percent penetration in the overall two-wheeler sales. For instance, in March a total of 130,274 electric two-wheelers were sold, up 71 percent MoM. Similarly, the electric two-wheeler sales also saw moderation to 91,800 units last month.

On the export front, ICRA estimates that two-wheeler sales volumes reported a healthy growth of 14.8 percent on a partially curtailed base. But despite the growth, the volumes continue to be constrained to an extent by shortage of FOREX and inflationary pressures in markets catered (such as Nigeria).

Going forward, the company expects that two-wheeler sales will remain to grow albeit in single-digit percentage, primarily aided by steady replacement demand, expected recovery in urban demand and healthy rural incomes (driven by early indications of a normal monsoon).

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Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) has expanded its premium motorcycle offerings with the launch of two new models: the CB750 Hornet and the flagship CB1000 Hornet SP. Interested customers can now place their bookings, with deliveries slated to begin from June 2025.

The all-new Honda CB750 Hornet enters the market with a price tag of INR 859,500 (ex-showroom Gurugram), while the more powerful CB1000 Hornet SP is priced at INR 1.23 million (ex-showroom Gurugram). The CB750 Hornet will be available across all BigWing Topline and BigWing dealerships, whereas the CB1000 Hornet SP will be exclusively retailed through BigWing Topline outlets.

Both motorcycles embody an ‘Aggressive X Pure’ styling concept, featuring a muscular streetfighter design with sharp bodywork, aggressive tank shrouds and an all-LED lighting system that includes a striking headlamp. The CB750 Hornet comes in Matte Pearl Glare White and Matte Ballistic Black Metallic, while the CB1000 Hornet SP boasts a single Matte Ballistic Black Metallic shade with subtle gold accents.

Under the hood, the CB750 Hornet is powered by a newly developed 755cc inline 2-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine producing 67.5 kW of power and 75 Nm of torque. The CB1000 Hornet SP, on the other hand, houses a 999cc liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder engine delivering a robust 115.6 kW of power and 107 Nm of torque. Both models feature a 6-speed gearbox with an assist and slipper clutch.

For superior handling and safety, the CB750 Hornet is equipped with a SHOWA SFF-BP front inverted fork and a Pro-Link monoshock at the rear, while the CB1000 Hornet SP boasts a SHOWA SFF-BP inverted fork upfront and an OHLINS TTX36 rear shock. Braking duties are handled by dual front disc brakes with dual-channel ABS as standard on both models.

Technological enhancements include a 5.0-inch full-colour TFT display with Honda’s RoadSync app connectivity for seamless smartphone integration, along with a new illuminated multi-functional switch. Rider aids on the CB750 Hornet include four riding modes (Sport, Standard, Rain, and User), while the CB1000 Hornet SP offers five riding modes, including two customisable user modes, Honda Selectable Torque Control and a bi-directional quickshifter as standard.

Tsutsumu Otani, Managing Director, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “The Indian premium motorcycle segment has shown tremendous growth over the years, especially among young and passionate riders looking for performance with style. With the launch of the CB750 Hornet and CB1000 Hornet SP, we aim to further strengthen our presence in the fun biking space. These motorcycles are a true representation of Honda’s legacy of engineering excellence, aggressive design, and thrilling performance. We are confident these Hornets will strike a chord with riders who seek a dynamic and sporty riding experience.”

Yogesh Mathur, Director, Sales and Marketing, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “Hornet has always held a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts, and with the introduction of the CB750 and CB1000 Hornet SP, we are taking that legacy to the next level. These motorcycles combine cutting-edge technology, iconic design, and a commanding road presence, making them a compelling choice in their respective segments. The growing appetite for performance motorcycles in India excites us, and we believe these Hornets will resonate with every thrill-seeker out there. We look forward to a great response from the biking community.”

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