According to a media report, TVS Motor Company is working with a European partner to launch a new flagship motorcycle. This bike is expected to come with a larger engine and higher performance. The engine displacement could be around 600-750cc range and it will get a twin-cylinder layout as well.
TVS’s new flagship 600-750cc motorcycle
This higher capacity bike will help TVS in two ways. The first is to cater to the lifestyle segment which is rapidly growing in India. The second is to compete with Royal Enfield.
While the news has not yet been confirmed officially, a media report has said that this project is already under the works. It also mentions that another middle-weight bike could be in progress hence the halo motorcycle would need to sit above that.
TVS looking to be an aspirational brand
In recent times, the disposable income levels of the potential TVS customer or in fact even the motorcycle enthusiast has increased significantly. This means such a clientele is looking at a two wheeler as something more than just a commute solver. This means bike makers now have to offer something apart from the regular offerings. Royal Enfield has a strong community of bikers. They regularly undertake rides and host festivals for its customers.
Now, at the recently concluded MotoSoul festival, TVS launched a bunch of new initiatives. THey also showcased custom bikes based on the Ronin. Four custom bikes based on the TVS Ronin were showcased. Amongst these, one was even from the TVS factory department. Alongside, TVS also unveiled a new Connect 2.0 Mobile application and two new Bluetooth headsets / intercoms. All this points out to the fact that TVS wants to cater to the aspirational / lifestyle segment buyer.
A larger displacement motorcycle will hence cater to this clientele.
TVS Motor’s current line-up and its shortall
To cater to the rising segment of customers, TVS needs to up its game. However, it is easier said than done. For starters, TVS has only bikes upto the 310cc segment. The Apache has 160-310cc range while the Ronin has a 225.9cc engine. The Ronin’s position as a modern retro bike is a success, but it’s not enough.
Rival Royal Enfield already has bikes in the 250-650cc segment. The recently launched new platform of 650cc engine will be spawning multiple new bikes for atleast the next few years.
Also Read – TVS working on premium 225cc – 350cc bikes for India?
