Fully faired KTM RC200 and RC390 likely for 2014

Earlier this year, KTM CEO Mr. Stefan Pierer noted that the small capacity Duke platform would play host to fully faired sportsbikes and dual purpose touring motorcycles. All three engine options of the small capacity Dukes (125cc, 200cc and 390cc) will support the new motorcycle variants. These variants are aimed at expanding KTM's motorcycle line up globally and also giving buyers more options to pick and choose from. 

Note: Images of the KTM RC390 Race Bike have been used as an illustration. 

While the 125cc variants will not be sold in India as they're intended primarily for the export market, the 200cc and 390cc variants of the fully faired and dual purpose motorcycles are expected to make it to the country. Mr. Amit Nandi, the CEO of KTM India, speaking to the EconomicTimes, has stated that two new fully faired motorcycles will be launched by the Austrian motorcycle maker in India, during 2014. 

While exact details of these motorcycles haven't been officially revealed, the RC200 and RC390 motorcycles are very likely to make it to Indian shores. Days ago, KTM showcased the KTM RC390 race bike, as a precursor to the street-spec production version. The faired motorcycles based on the small capacity Duke platform are expected to be priced and positioned above the street fighter Duke range.

While the fully faired KTM RC200 and RC390 motorcycles will share engines with the Duke 200 and 390 models respectively, the motorcycles could come with revised frame and suspension geometry, features aimed at delivering more focused track handling. Also, the flat handlebars of the Duke series will make way for sportier, forward leaning clip-on units.

The motorcycles will be built at Bajaj Auto's Chakan factory, off Pune, as is the case with the small capacity Duke range. Apart from domestic sales, exports are a given. Fully faired motorcycles are a big draw in India, where many buyers expect a motorcycle priced over a lakh rupees to feature a full fairing. Meanwhile, production timelines for the dual purpose, Adventure series of motorcycles based on the sub-500cc Duke platform are yet to be revealed by KTM.