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Back in December 2019, it was announced that KTM would like to serve the 500cc segment and plans to introduce a 490 series. According to rumors, the first models will be introduced before the end of 2022.
A model overview taken from an investor presentation revealed work on five different models. In an interview, KTM boss Pierer confirmed that the Corona pandemic actually accelerated the original schedules. It has been concluded that in markets with A2 licenses, it is especially important that the 125cc, 200cc and 390cc motorcycle markets be allowed to evolve.
Plans apparently include a new Duke, RC, Adventure, a Supermoto and an Enduro model.
For this reason, the research and development engineers of KTM and Bajaj are working closely together to accelerate the joint development of the 500cc motorcycles, which is taking place in India. It is safe to assume that the first models will be unveiled as early as 2022.
It would even be possible to see the first development results already in the form of the CFMoto 450SR. Here, a 450cc parallel twin is used, which according to rumors could be based on the new 490cc KTM engine. There is talk here of a 270-degree crankshaft, similar to that in Yamaha’s 689cc Crossplane ParallelTwin. This should make the sound and power delivery similar to a 90-degree V-twin.
Article from June 18, 2020, update from May 16, 2022
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