UK bike-maker Triumph enters India with 7 models

Hotting up the domestic super premium motorcycle segment, British bike-maker Triumph on Thursday entered the Indian market with the launch of seven models priced between ₹5.5 lakh and ₹22 lakh.

'2012 is a very crucial year for Triumph motorcycles globally as we take our first steps into one of the most evolving markets (India) in the world. The motorcycle models put on display represent exemplary British engineering dovetailed with distinctive design and looks,' Triumph Motorcycles India managing director Ashish Joshi said at the Auto Expo 2012.

The company initially plans to establish 3-4 dealerships in major cities and sales are like to commence by the festive season, beginning October.

The models that were introduced today include the Bonneville (₹5.5 lakh), Tiger 800XC (₹11.4 lakh), Street Triple (₹5.75 lakh) and Rocket III Roadster (₹22 lakh). All the prices are ex-showroom, Delhi.

Joshi said as per market research done by the company, 'It makes sense to come to India and we are very bullish. Our market entry is perfectly timed as Indian riders have been longing to be given the power of choice.'

However, he refrained from making any predictions on how the market for Triumph will pan out.

The introduction of seven Triumph models coincides with the launch of two India-assembled bikes by iconic US motorcycle brand Harley-Davidson.

On competition with Harley-Davidson and Ducati, Joshi said Triumph's model range is diverse and 'our bikes don't really compete with Harley, barring a few'.

The company will also be setting up an assembly plant in the country, which is expected to become operational from March. The plant would be assembling 5-10 bikes a day. In addition, the number of Triumph dealerships would increase to 10-14 by end of 2012.

Established in 1902, and now based in Hinckley, at Leicestershire in the UK, the company is known for its broad range of bikes, including the 2.3-litre Rocket III, Speed Triple, Daytona 675 and the recently launched Tiger 800.

The Indian super premium bike market has already attracted global players like Harley Davidson, BMW Motorrad and Ducati to set up shop here.

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