While the Q platform will reportedly give rise to a Triumph Thruxton rival, the K architecture will spawn motorcycles above 600-700 cc
Harley-Davidson recently announced a partnership with a Chinese company for the production of a small capacity motorcycle from next year while Triumph is already working with Bajaj Auto for possible low displacement bikes in the near future. Midway through last year, HD revealed its groundbreaking plans.
And it involves, penetrating into high volume segments and reaching a wide range of customers. In contrast, Royal Enfield stepped up the game and introduced high capacity flagship motorcycles in the form of Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650 by November 2018.
The aggressively priced models, as expected, have put on a good show thus far with a steady increase in sales and last month more than 2,400 units were retailed. Although at the expense of the 500 cc series that has seen reduction in volumes as a domino effect, Royal Enfield is looking to consolidate its domestic as well as international lineup.
We would like to reiterate on the report suggesting that new platforms are being utilised for the betterment of the future. The Chennai-based manufacturer has already been spied testing the next generation versions of its Classic series that are likely due for early next year.
With major cosmetic changes and BSVI compliant engine, the 2020 Classic 350 will continue to be the mainstay of volume prospects. As much as twelve new models are in the pipeline over the next two to four years ranging from 350 cc to 650 cc and above. The J architecture is said to underpin the Classic, Bullet, Thunderbird and Himalayan in the BSVI era.
Amidst the P architecture being responsible for parallel-twin based 650 cc models to rival global giants like HD and Triumph, the Q and K platforms carry significant importance for the brand as well. The Q will spawn a modern café racer to compete against Triumph’s Thruxton while the K will go give rise to bigger motorcycles above 600-700 cc.
The K platform could lead to Royal Enfield going up against established brands like Ducati as well. The Concept KX based 830 cc bobber is not ruled out of the equation either in the not-so-distant future.