Bajaj plans sub-350cc Triumph engines to counter GST hikes, KTM future unclear.
Bajaj Auto is reportedly working on a smaller-capacity engine for the Triumph 400 range, designed to bring the motorcycles under India’s new GST tax slab for two-wheelers. This development follows the recent revision in GST, where bikes above 350cc attract a hefty 40 percent tax, while those below 350cc now benefit from a reduced 18 percent rate.
Why a New Engine?
The current 399cc engine powering the Triumph Speed 400 and its siblings would push the bikes into the higher tax bracket. By re-engineering the motor with a smaller bore to stay just under the 350cc threshold, Bajaj aims to make the Triumph models more price-competitive. The new motor is expected to deliver slightly lower performance – around 3 to 5 HP less than the existing 40 HP output of the Speed 400.
Models Affected
This downsized engine will likely feature across Triumph’s Indian portfolio, including the Speed 400, Scrambler 400 X, Scrambler 400 XC, Speed T4 and the upcoming Thruxton 400. The existing 399cc version may still continue for export markets and Bajaj could even offer it domestically at a higher price if there’s sufficient demand.
Strategic Advantage Against Rivals
While this adjustment is primarily a reaction to taxation, it also positions Triumph more directly against Royal Enfield’s 350cc lineup, including the Classic 350, Hunter 350, Meteor 350 and Bullet 350. Matching displacement and a more affordable price tag could help Triumph expand its appeal in this highly competitive segment.
What About KTM?
Though the KTM 390 range shares engine architecture with the Triumph 400, Bajaj has not confirmed a similar downsizing. The KTM 390 brand identity is strongly tied to performance, and a smaller-capacity engine may not resonate with its buyers. Instead, speculation suggests future KTM strategy could involve keeping the 390 as-is while introducing twin-cylinder models above 400cc and possibly shifting the next-generation single-cylinder platform below 350cc.
Pulsar and Dominar Considerations
Beyond Triumph and KTM, Bajaj’s Dominar 400 and the recently launched Pulsar NS400Z could also see revisions. While the Dominar may undergo a major overhaul, reducing the Pulsar’s engine size to benefit from lower GST could make it even more attractive in terms of value.
