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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India Yamaha Motor, one of the leading two-wheeler manufacturers in the country, has updated its 125cc Fi Hybrid scooter range with new features and colour options.

The company’s hybrid scooter lineup now features the ‘Enhanced Power Assist’ function, which delivers high torque, stronger acceleration and performance. Powered by a high-performance battery, the function allows users to squeeze more power from the scooter, which will be useful when starting from standstill, carrying loads or climbing inclines. The scooters continue to be equipped with the Smart Motor Generator (SMG) technology, Silent Start and Stop & Start System (SSS) tech.

Furthermore, the Fascino S scooter now features a Colour TFT Instrument Cluster equipped with Turn-by-Turn (TBT) Navigation, using smartphone connectivity through the Y-Connect app. It is also integrated with Google Maps to support Turn-by-Turn (TBT) navigation.

In terms of colour options, the Fascino S 125 Fi Hybrid, is now available in Matte Grey colour option, while the disc-brake variant gets Metallic Light Green and drum-brake variant gets Metallic White options. Alongside, the RayZR 125 Fi Hybrid Street Rally is offered in a Matte Grey Metallic hue, and the RayZR 125 Fi Hybrid disc variant features a Silver White Cocktail shade.

Itaru Otani, Chairman, Yamaha Motor India Group, said, “Yamaha’s 125cc Hybrid scooter range has consistently delighted customers with its dynamic styling, superior comfort, and fuel-efficient performance. The introduction of the new ‘Enhanced Power Assist’ function marks another step forward in enhancing everyday riding convenience and instilling greater confidence among commuters.”

“Further elevating the appeal, the launch of new colour variants brings a refreshing vibrancy to the entire scooter lineup. These updates are a direct reflection of the insightful feedback received from customers through our various engagement platforms. We are confident that these thoughtful upgrades will resonate strongly with our customers and continue to strengthen Yamaha’s presence in the 125cc scooter segment,” he said.

The scooters continue to be powered by Yamaha’s air-cooled, fuel-injected (FI) and 125cc Blue Core Hybrid engine. The Fascino S and RayZR Street Rally variants additionally offer the Answer Back feature and LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL). 

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The Indian Supercross Racing League (ISRL) has announced a new partnership with GUTS Racing USA, a prominent off-road racing brand with a 30-year history.

This alliance will see GUTS Racing provide its premium factory series seat covers to all ISRL teams, aiming to boost rider performance, safety and control on the demanding Supercross tracks.

Andy Gregg, Owner, GUTS Racing and a former racer, said, “We are thrilled to support the Indian Supercross Racing League with our technology to enhance the performance of the riders. As a racer myself, I know how important seat performance is to a rider’s success. ISRL represents an exciting new frontier for motocross, and we’re proud to play a part in its growth. We look forward to many thrilling seasons together. India is a growing market and a key part of our global expansion. This association gives us direct visibility with our core audience.”

Eeshan Lokhande, Co-Founder, Indian SuperCross Racing League, said, “We’re seeing a clear surge of interest from global performance brands, and GUTS Racing’s entry into ISRL is a testament to that momentum. Their belief in India’s Supercross future reinforces our vision to create a world-class platform for motorsport in the country. This partnership will benefit the rider’s performance through GUTS' premium technology, and marks the beginning of a long-term, strategic relationship. With a rapidly growing fanbase and some of the highest engagement rates across social and digital platforms, ISRL is fast becoming the sport of choice for a new generation. Together, we’re not just raising the bar for Indian motorsport, we’re building a movement.”

Blake Wharton, Former AMA Supercross Athlete, said, "I’m thrilled to see the Indian Supercross Racing League pushing the boundaries and creating new opportunities for riders, fans, and brands alike. We have a real chance here to grow the sport, connect performance-driven brands with performance racing, and inspire the next generation. India has incredible potential for Supercross, and I’m excited to keep contributing as both an ex-racer and an ambassador for the sport."

This partnership is a significant step for the ISRL as it works to align with global standards and enhance athlete performance in its upcoming season.

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Jawa Yezdi Motorcycles, one of the leading manufacturers of mid-sized premium motorcycles in India, has launched the 2025 Yezdi Roadster at prices starting INR 209,969 (ex-showroom Delhi).

The mid-sized motorcycle is being made available in six factory-backed custom combinations with more than 50 combination options.

The motorcycle comes with iconic twin-barrel exhausts, chopped rear fender and bold ‘69’ decals, with customers having an option to choose from over six factory custom combinations and over 20 plug-and-play accessories including – modular seating options, customisable handlebars, visors and crash guards among others.

Anupam Thareja, Co-Founder, Jawa Yezdi Motorcycles, said, “The Yezdi Roadster is a wolf in wolf’s clothing. The memories of a Yezdi rumbling through Indian roads and hearts never really went away. The cool dads and lads rode on real roads, on a real bike and created real stories. Their first job, first fall, first love was all on a Yezdi. Yezdi has been a way of life, an attitude, a thought, since inception, born as a challenger in a monopolistic market. Renegades who dared to carve their own path made Yezdi their cultural emblem. The new Roadster is ‘Born Out of Line’ to become the call of the wolf to all the new-age wildcards. With a bold design, cutting-edge performance, and touring-ready engineering, the Yezdi Roadster is a war cry for those who chart their own course, your tribe is calling.”

The Roadster is powered by the in-house developed all-new 350 Alpha2 Liquid-Cooled engine, which produces 29PS and 30Nm of power. It gets first-in-segment 6-speed gearbox and assist and slipper clutch, 12.5 litre fuel tank with a claimed range of over 350 km.

In terms of safety, it is powered by dual-channel ABS from Continental, 320mm front disc brakes and 240mm rear disc brakes. A telescopic front suspension and dual rear shocks are calibrated for stability and comfort, while its 795mm seat height and optimised ground clearance.

Interestingly, it comes with Jawa Yezdi BSA Ownership Assurance Programme, an industry-first standard 4-year/50,000km warranty, optional coverage for up to six years, one year of roadside assistance across its 450 service stations across India.

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Triumph Motorcycles celebrated its rich heritage with the Pune edition of World of Triumph, an immersive event that brought together riders and enthusiasts for a weekend of high-energy experiences. Following a successful run in Bengaluru, the Pune chapter amplified the excitement with dynamic test rides, interactive displays and an inside look into Triumph’s distinctive riding culture.

The event catered to all kinds of motorcycling fans – whether seasoned riders or those just starting their journey. Attendees had the chance to experience Triumph’s latest models firsthand, including the Street Triple 765, Daytona 660, Thruxton 400 and Scrambler XC, across different terrains. With an unmatched lineup spanning from 400 cc entry-level bikes to the mighty 2,458 cc Rocket 3, Triumph remains the only brand in India offering such a diverse range, appealing to riders at every level.

The Pune edition drew massive interest, with over 1,700 registrations, 400+ test rides and more than 1,000 attendees, making it one of the most talked-about motorcycling events in the region.

Sumeet Narang, President, Marketing, Bajaj Auto Ltd, said, “World of Triumph is more than just an event – it’s a gathering of people who see motorcycling as a way of life. After Bengaluru, we were excited to bring this experience to Pune, a city with a strong and growing rider community. This was about connecting over performance, personality and a shared passion for doing things differently.”

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