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Bajaj Spotted Testing Near‑Production Adventure Motorcycle

The prototype signals Bajaj may soon offer a purpose-built entry adventure bike that could reshape competition and pricing in the lightweight ADV market.

Overview

  • Multiple outlets published spy photos and video this week showing a heavily camouflaged Bajaj test mule running near Varve, Pune that appears close to production with finished panels, an exhaust, seat and luggage mounts.
  • Visible hardware points to a true adventure/dual-sport design with a tall beak, upright ergonomics, long-travel suspension and wire-spoke wheels likely in a 19‑inch front and 17‑inch rear layout.
  • Observers disagree on the powertrain: several sources note the engine casing resembles KTM’s modern liquid-cooled 249cc single, while others argue Bajaj could offer a simpler sub-300cc air/oil-cooled unit or market-specific variants.
  • Reports expect rider-focused tech such as LED lighting, a TFT display and smartphone connectivity, with a widely cited launch window of late 2026 to early 2027 and pricing positioned to compete with the Hero Xpulse family.
  • Bajaj’s role as KTM’s local manufacturer gives it access to KTM platforms and parts, which could let the company offer both higher-performance and cost-conscious versions and—if priced aggressively—shift buying choices in the entry ADV segment.