All-new KTM 490cc range is definitely on its way
A full range of new KTM 490 models are set to join the Austrian firm's line-up over the next 12 months as part of a bold expansion plan
KTM seems determined to cover off every corner of the motorcycle market after leaked documents from its 2020 model plan revealed that not only are several 490cc motorcycles on the way, but they are slotting above the 390cc displacement range.
Rumours of the 490 models have been rife for a few months but what wasn’t clear at the time was whether they would be used to supersede older models in the KTM range of whether they’d be developed into an entirely new line.
It appears the latter is in fact true with a proposed model line-up showing a full spectrum of KTM models covering 125, 250, 390, 490, 690, 790, 890 and 1290 engine displacements across its broad range of body styles.
In all, five new models utilising the 490 platform are on the way and they fit in comfortably with the rest of the range with a new Adventure, Supermoto, Enduro, Duke and – perhaps most excitingly – RC on the way.
For now, it’s not clear whether these models are intended for specific markets, though with KTM expanding its production portfolio to include a new plant in China – alongside CFMoto – one would assume they will feature in Asia.
The document, which was part of a presentation showing new models, also reveals a new 890 Duke and an expansion of the E-Freeride range.
KTM model offensive across all three brands
It was a busy 2019 for KTM’s parent company Pierer Mobility AG on all fronts as it overhauled its range – including the flagship KTM 1290 Super Duke R – committed to an electric future by solidifying its collaboration with Bajaj Auto, acquired a controlling stake in GasGas and opened new production plants.
This latest news shows KTM is keen to cover all bases when it comes to its models, with one model style available in different power and price bands.
Moreover, there won’t just be a wealth of KTM models on similar platforms with Husqvarna and even GasGas also developing their own range on the same underpinnings.
The inclusion of GasGas is particularly interesting. Plans for the Spanish marque – which KTM acquired a majority stake in in August – were unknown before the same presentation revealed three new roadgoing models using the 790 and 250 platform are apparently on the way.
This is a stark contrast to its predominantly enduro-inspired range and shows Pierer Mobility AG has big plans for its latest brand.
Husqvarna, meanwhile, recently confirmed it will put the 901 Norden adventure bike into production with a slated launch date of 2021.
