Long story short: Discover every Bajaj partnership in India—past and present, including those with KTM, Kawasaki, and Triumph—right here.
Bajaj is one of India’s top five motorcycle makers by sales. The company’s strong research, development, and growth are driven by its collaboration with global industry leaders, enabling it to stay ahead of its competitors.
By 2023, Bajaj had built four or five significant partnerships. These deals gave customers more choices, influenced prices, and raised service expectations. Such collaborations require clear agreements. Now, let’s look at the main benefits and drawbacks for customers from Bajaj’s partnerships in India and abroad.
Key Takeaways
- Strategic Global Collaborations: Bajaj has formed alliances with brands like Kawasaki, KTM, Husqvarna, and Triumph, enhancing its leadership in R&D and manufacturing while allowing foreign brands to tap into India’s efficient production ecosystem.
- Better Technology and Choices for Riders: Collaborations with KTM and Husqvarna have introduced advanced features—like liquid cooling and ABS—into Bajaj’s models, offering Indian consumers a wider range of high-quality, competitively priced motorcycles.
- Expanded Market Reach: Brands like Kawasaki and Triumph utilise Bajaj’s network to boost sales and enter new markets in India and Asia, making premium bikes more accessible.
- Consumer Benefits and Challenges: Customers enjoy diverse choices, competitive pricing, and better service through shared networks, but rapid growth may lead to quality-control issues and limited customisation for mass-produced models.
- Long-term Goals: Bajaj aims for ongoing innovation in product development (125–750cc, EV, hybrid models), global expansion, and technology leadership, positioning itself as a major international player while enhancing India’s export capabilities.
About Bajaj Motorcycles
Bajaj Auto, a flagship company of the Bajaj Group, is a prominent name in the Indian automotive industry. Founded by Jamnalal Bajaj in 1926, the Bajaj Group has diversified into various sectors. Bajaj Auto has become a significant player in the global two- and three-wheeler market, offering a range of new Bajaj motorcycles known for their reliability, performance, and competitive price. Bajaj bikes in India are popular for their impressive mileage, catering to a wide audience looking for cost-effective and fuel-efficient options. With attractive Bajaj bikes prices, the company continues to attract customers, solidifying its presence in both domestic and international markets.
A brief history of all Bajaj partnerships in India
1. Bajaj-Kawasaki partnership
The Bajaj-Kawasaki partnership began in the 1980s with a technical agreement focused on joint model development and production. This collaboration led to the launch of motorcycles such as the KB100, Caliber, and Eliminator. From 2009, Bajaj also managed sales and service for Kawasaki bikes in India through its Probiking network.
The partnership concluded in 2017 as Bajaj prioritised its relationship with KTM. Afterwards, Kawasaki’s sales and service operations in India transitioned to India Kawasaki Motors, a local subsidiary of Kawasaki Heavy Industries.
The split was amicable, allowing Bajaj to prioritise KTM and its own marque. Kawasaki developed its Indian network, while Bajaj converted Probiking outlets into KTM showrooms. Globally, Bajaj and Kawasaki continued their cooperation.
2. Bajaj-KTM partnership
The Bajaj-KTM partnership began in 2007, when Bajaj acquired a 14.5% stake, supporting KTM during its financial challenges and providing Bajaj with access to KTM’s European motorcycle technology.
Through this partnership, KTM debuted in India in 2012 with the 200 Duke, followed by the Duke 390, RC 200, and RC 390. All production was handled by Bajaj at its Chakan plant.
By 2019, Bajaj had grown its KTM stake to nearly 48%, and both firms were prepared to globally launch the Husqvarna brand. That year, Husqvarna debuted in India with the Svartpilen 250 and Vitpilen 250, based on the KTM 250 Duke platform.
In 2020, KTM launched the 390 Adventure in India, broadening its offerings. Bajaj restructured by trading its KTM AG stake for nearly 50% in PTW Holding AG.
By 2021, Bajaj and KTM had marked ten years in India, expanding their lineups and dealer networks. In 2023, they produced their one millionth KTM motorcycle at Bajaj’s plant, marking a significant milestone in their growth.
KTM entered restructuring in 2024. Bajaj provided an €800 million bailout in 2025, gaining majority control and full ownership after regulatory approval, making KTM a Bajaj subsidiary.
This partnership fueled global growth for KTM, enabled Bajaj’s tech advancements, and established a central Indian manufacturing hub for premium motorcycles.
3. Bajaj-Husqvarna partnership
The Bajaj-Husqvarna partnership, closely tied to the KTM relationship, expanded in 2017-2018 when Husqvarna joined Bajaj’s production and distribution network. This allowed for local manufacturing of Husqvarna motorcycles at Bajaj’s Chakan plant.
After KTM acquired Husqvarna in 2013, Husqvarna motorcycles were locally manufactured in India by Bajaj. In 2018, Bajaj announced plans to globally roll out Husqvarna models, shifting the primary production from Austria to India to enable larger-scale production.
Husqvarna entered India in 2019 with the Svartpilen 250 and Vitpilen 250, built on KTM’s 250 Duke base and sold through Pro-Biking showrooms alongside KTMs.
This partnership aims to produce over 100,000 units to meet global demand, combining Husqvarna’s European design with Bajaj’s cost-effective manufacturing and distribution capabilities.
Bajaj has firmly established Husqvarna in India and abroad, expanding its range and leveraging manufacturing scale for a competitive edge.
4. Bajaj-Triumph partnership in India
The Bajaj-Triumph partnership began in 2023-2024 as a strategic collaboration to co-develop motorcycles with engines from 200 to 750cc, combining Triumph’s brand value with Bajaj’s manufacturing strength and distribution in India.
Together, Bajaj and Triumph launched the Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X in 2023, manufactured at the Chakan plant. Bajaj oversees Triumph’s Indian sales and is expanding the dealer network to over 100 showrooms in 80 cities.
Bajaj aims to produce 10,000 units per month, reflecting strong demand. This alliance supports Triumph’s expansion in India and Asia. Simultaneously, Bajaj strengthens its premium portfolio and expertise.
Together, Bajaj and Triumph aim to deliver affordable premium motorcycles for new-age consumers, balancing innovation, performance, and value, and paving the way for global growth.
What are the Benefits for Domestic Motorcycle Companies?
1. Access to Advanced Technology and Expertise
Indian motorcycle brands acquire advanced technology and engineering expertise through strategic partnerships. This helps them produce better motorcycles, compete more effectively, and develop new products faster, which improves their market position.
2. Enhanced Product Offerings
Working together enables Indian brands to adopt international design and performance standards. This allows customers to receive better-designed products with more features and a greater variety.
3. Brand Association and Global Reach
When Indian companies partner with well-known foreign brands, their reputation and credibility improve. Customers trust the quality more and gain access to international options that were previously unavailable in India.
What are the Benefits for Foreign Motorcycle Companies?
1. Market Access and Distribution
International brands can enter India’s large motorcycle market by partnering with local companies. This provides Indian customers with access to renowned international brands through established dealer networks, making purchasing and servicing easier.
2. Cost-Effective Manufacturing
Indian manufacturers help keep costs low, allowing international brands to offer motorcycles at prices that Indian buyers can afford. This makes advanced features accessible to a broader audience.
3. Local Market Insights
By partnering with Indian companies, international brands gain a deeper understanding of what Indian customers want. This helps them create products that better meet local needs and preferences, resulting in a more satisfying ownership experience.
What are the Benefits for Indian Customers?
1. Access to Advanced Technology and Diverse Product Offerings
Indian customers get more motorcycle options, including models with advanced technology and international design. This variety gives people more choices and access to products that can compete globally.
2. Competitive Pricing and Quality Assurance
Efficient manufacturing and strategic partnerships help keep motorcycle prices competitive, providing customers with better value. Working with international brands also means that Indian buyers receive motorcycles manufactured to global quality standards, thereby improving their overall experience.
What are the drawbacks for Indian Customers?
1. Market Saturation and Quality Concerns
More partnerships can crowd the market, giving customers too many motorcycle options and making decisions more difficult. Rapid growth and competition may also lead some companies to cut corners on quality to keep up with demand.
2. Limited Customisation and Service Expectations
Because partnerships focus on mass production and standardisation, Indian customers may have fewer options for customised motorcycles. Additionally, local dealers may not always meet the high service standards expected by international brand customers, which can impact satisfaction.
What are the drawbacks for Domestic Motorcycle Companies?
1. Increased Competition
When international brands enter the market through partnerships, competition in the premium motorcycle segment increases. Established Indian brands might lose some market share as new, competitive products attract customers.
2. Complexity in Managing Partnerships
Managing partnerships can be complex because companies need to align their business strategies, cultures, and working styles. This can make it hard to run joint ventures smoothly.
What are the drawbacks for Foreign Motorcycle Companies?
1. Dependency on Local Partners
International brands often depend on their Indian partners for market access and distribution. This can limit their flexibility and control over their operations.
2. Cultural and Operational Challenges
It can be challenging to align business strategies and working methods across diverse cultures. This may lead to inefficiencies and conflicts within the partnership.
What specific advancements in technology has Bajaj gained from its partnerships with KTM and Husqvarna in India?
Bajaj has improved its engines, electronics, chassis, manufacturing, and EV platforms by working with KTM and Husqvarna. Many of these upgrades are now featured in Bajaj-branded bikes manufactured in India.
- Engine architectures and derivatives: Pulsar 200/NS200 was developed from the KTM 200 Duke’s liquid-cooled single-cylinder platform, introducing high-revving, 4-valve, DOHC features and advanced tuning to Bajaj’s lineup.
- Liquid cooling, fuel injection, and emission-ready calibration: By using KTM’s liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engines, Bajaj sped up its BS6+ calibration and adopted modern intake and exhaust strategies for its bikes.
- Chassis dynamics and components: Working together, Bajaj gained experience with WP suspension, trellis frames, Brembo brakes, and ABS and traction control systems from KTM and Husqvarna models, including the 250–401 series.
- Electronics and rider aids: The partnership enabled Bajaj to incorporate features such as ABS, traction control, ride modes, quickshifters, and TFT connectivity, similar to those found on the KTM and Husqvarna 390/401 models.
- Shared platform engineering: By planning together, Bajaj and its partners created modular engine and frame designs for several KTM and Husqvarna models. This improved platform reuse and cut costs.
- Global manufacturing and sourcing excellence: Making KTM and Husqvarna 125–401 models in Chakan improved Bajaj’s export quality, local sourcing, and supplier development. This has made India a key production centre for these brands.
- EV technology collaboration: Bajaj and KTM collaborated on a 48-volt electric two-wheeler platform, enabling Bajaj to build expertise in small EV powertrains and integration.
Continued co-development and later leadership expanded Bajaj’s role to include global R&D, cost optimisation, and the rapid industrialisation of Euro-spec updates.
These advancements enable Bajaj to offer liquid-cooled, feature-rich singles with advanced braking and electronics at Indian costs, while meeting export standards.
How will the Bajaj-Triumph partnership impact the competitive landscape of the motorcycle market in India?
The Bajaj-Triumph partnership is likely to transform the Indian motorcycle market, particularly in the premium mid-capacity segment (200- 750cc).
- Expansion of the Affordable Premium Segment: By combining Triumph’s premium image with Bajaj’s affordable manufacturing and extensive dealer network, the partnership will offer attractive motorcycles at reasonable prices. This will appeal to younger riders who previously couldn’t afford global premium brands, and will increase competition in the mid-capacity segment, challenging established brands like Royal Enfield and KTM
- Increased Product Variety and Innovation: The partnership allows for quicker development and launch of new models tailored for India and similar markets. With Bajaj’s manufacturing and Triumph’s engineering, customers can expect more choices, including scramblers, commuters, and sporty retro bikes, which raises expectations for technology and design.
- Strengthening Dealer and Service Network: Bajaj now manages Triumph’s distribution in India and is expanding to over 100 showrooms in 80 cities. This makes premium bikes more accessible and improves after-sales support, boosting customer confidence. Other premium brands may need to improve their own retail and service to keep up.
- Global Aspirations with Local Manufacture: Producing bikes at Bajaj’s Chakan plant reduces costs while maintaining high quality. This helps the partnership offer reasonable prices and supports plans to export, expanding both brands’ reach beyond India.
- Boost to Electric and Future Mobility: As Bajaj focuses on electric and hybrid technology, the partnership could also lead to the development of electric motorcycles. This would change the competition in new EV segments by sharing technology.
In short, the Bajaj-Triumph partnership is expected to increase competition and innovation in India’s premium mid-size motorcycle market. Consumers will have more choices, better technology, and more affordable prices, prompting other brands to improve as well.
What are the long-term goals for Bajaj’s partnerships, especially in terms of new product development and market expansion?
Bajaj’s long-term goals with KTM, Husqvarna, and Triumph are to develop new products quickly and grow in more markets by working closely together.
New Product Development
- Bajaj plans to collaborate with its partners to develop advanced, competitive motorcycles in the 125cc to 750cc range, leveraging global technology and efficient local manufacturing.
- The company is investing significant resources in liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engines, advanced electronics such as ABS, traction control, and connectivity, as well as modular platforms to rapidly develop new models.
- Electrification is a key focus, with Bajaj and KTM collaborating on electric powertrains, including 48V mild-hybrid two-wheelers, for both the Indian and global markets.
- Bajaj and Triumph are collaborating to design new mid-capacity motorcycles (200- 750cc) that combine Triumph’s high-end engineering with Bajaj’s cost benefits, encouraging innovation and models tailored to different markets.
Market Expansion
- Bajaj aims to establish India as a global production hub for premium motorcycle brands and plans to expand exports of KTM and Husqvarna bikes to over 80 countries.
- These partnerships help Bajaj enter new and established markets in Asia, Europe, and the Americas by sharing research, development, and supply chains.
- Bajaj is expanding its brand by increasing its dealer network, enhancing customer experience, and utilising targeted marketing to attract younger and ambitious riders.
- Bajaj plans to expand into the premium and aspirational segments by offering a diverse range of products that combine high-end features with affordable prices.
- Husqvarna is poised to expand in the lifestyle and premium urban mobility sectors, while Triumph is focusing on premium buyers and new segments, including electric and mid-capacity motorcycles.
In conclusion, Bajaj’s partnership goals focus on strengthening technology leadership, expanding globally, and boosting product diversity. These strategies are designed to position Bajaj as a leading global premium motorcycle player, while maintaining strong growth and relevance in the Indian market.
FAQ related to Bajaj partnerships in India
1. What was the significance of the Bajaj-Kawasaki partnership?
The Bajaj-Kawasaki partnership began in 1986 with the launch of the KB100 motorcycle. This collaboration marked Bajaj’s entry into the motorcycle segment, marking a transition from its earlier focus on scooters. The partnership helped Bajaj establish a foothold in the motorcycle market.
2. What technological advancements have resulted from Bajaj’s partnerships?
Bajaj’s partnership with KTM enabled it to access advanced motorcycle technology, including liquid-cooled engines, which Bajaj had not previously developed independently. This technological exchange has been crucial in enhancing Bajaj’s product offerings.
3. What are the future plans for Bajaj’s partnerships?
Bajaj is working with its partners to develop and manufacture electric bikes for the Indian market. This move aligns with the global shift towards sustainable transportation and positions Bajaj as a forward-thinking player in the industry.
4. When did Bajaj Auto first partner with KTM?
Bajaj Auto entered into a strategic alliance with KTM in 2007. This partnership aimed to produce high-performance racing bikes in India, such as the KTM 390 series, and has been instrumental in bringing advanced motorcycle technology to the Indian market.
5. How has the Bajaj-KTM partnership evolved over the years?
Since its inception, the Bajaj-KTM partnership has undergone significant growth. Bajaj increased its stake in KTM to 48%, and the collaboration has led to the manufacturing of small-displacement KTM and Husqvarna motorcycles at Bajaj’s Chakan plant in Maharashtra. This partnership has also created a premium sports motorcycle segment in India.
6.What role does Bajaj play in the global motorcycle market?
Bajaj Auto is one of India’s largest manufacturers of two- and three-wheeled vehicles. It exports its motorcycles to various countries across Asia, Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East. Its strategic partnerships have helped it gain a significant share of the global motorcycle market.
7. How has the Bajaj partnership with KTM benefited both companies?
The Bajaj-KTM partnership has been mutually beneficial, with KTM’s Indian operations beginning in 2012. The collaboration has led to a rapid increase in demand for both Bajaj and KTM bikes, with KTM recording significant sales growth in India.
8. What is the benefit to the government of India from such partnerships?
The Honourable Government of India’s motive is to invite companies to invest in India rather than just import, as this can create more jobs within the country. In sales and marketing, most Indian companies provide space for foreign companies to exhibit their products within their showrooms.
When foreign companies partner with local manufacturers in India, they can export models from India to other parts of the world. The main USP behind this is that labour and additional costs are relatively low in developing countries like India.
Other related articles from Bikeleague India
- KTM
- KTM 390 Adventure
- Husqvarna Motorcycles
- KTM 890 Adventure R
- List of all Motorcycle, Scooter & E-bike brands in India
Conclusion
Business partnerships are designed to help both sides. As we’ve seen, Bajaj’s partnerships in India, such as the Bajaj-Triumph partnership, have been beneficial for customers. Most Indian buyers view these collaborations positively and think they help everyone. The big question now is how long the Bajaj-Triumph, Bajaj-KTM, and Bajaj-Kawasaki partnerships will last.
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