The 490s are Coming
We reported a long while back that KTM was working pretty closely with Bajaj to create more middleweight bikes. Well, now it sounds like that work has paid off. According to MoreBikes, the world could get five new 490cc models soon. How soon? Well, the publication is pointing to EICMA as the date that these machines will make their debut.
Here’s the bad news. The 490cc engine will simply replace the 390cc engine. With that information in mind. MoreBikes believes the following motorcycles will be shown off at EICMA: 490 Duke, RC 490, 490 Adventure, 490 Supermoto, and the 490 Enduro. Why bump up the displacement of the motorcycles? KTM wants to maintain power and performance and be able to stay compliant with Euro 5 regulations for emissions. Tightening emissions means the company had to do something and adding to the displacement was its solution.
It’s unclear at this time where all the bikes will be sold. It would make sense to me for KTM to sell these things everywhere they sell the current 390s, but MoreBikes suggest the new engine will be restricted to European markets. I think if KTM is going to spend time putting the bigger engine in the bike, it might as well sell it everywhere. More will become clear during EICMA.
