Upcoming Bajaj ADV could borrow KTM’s 249cc engine and take on the Hero Xpulse 210 and Suzuki V-Strom SX.
Bajaj Auto is preparing to enter the adventure motorcycle segment with an all-new model for the Indian market. The motorcycle has been spotted testing just weeks after the company confirmed plans to launch eight new motorcycles in the 125cc–250cc category over the coming months. An adventure motorcycle was among the products outlined in that roadmap.
Purpose-Built Adventure Tourer
The test motorcycle appears to have been designed specifically for touring and light off-road use. Spy images reveal typical adventure-bike proportions, including a tall stance, a prominent front beak and long-travel suspension.
Wire-spoke wheels further reinforce its adventure credentials, with the motorcycle appearing to use a 19-inch front wheel and a 17-inch rear wheel. Suspension duties are handled by telescopic front forks and a rear monoshock setup, which should provide adequate capability for both rough roads and mild trail riding.
The motorcycle also features a single-piece seat and a relatively slim fuel tank, both of which are expected to improve rider movement and control while riding off-road. A top box mounted at the rear highlights the bike’s touring focus, while the long seat appears spacious enough for a pillion rider.
At the rear, the motorcycle gets a compact tail section featuring an LED tail-lamp design similar to those seen on several existing Bajaj models.
KTM Connection Becomes Evident
The most interesting aspect of the motorcycle is its engine and chassis package.
The engine casing differs significantly from the unit used in Bajaj’s current 250cc motorcycles, such as the Bajaj Pulsar N250 and Bajaj Dominar 250.
Several visible components appear similar to those found on KTM’s liquid-cooled single-cylinder platform, leading to speculation that Bajaj could use the same 249cc engine that powers the KTM 250 Adventure.
If this proves accurate, the new Bajaj ADV could produce around 31 PS and 25 Nm, giving it a performance advantage over many rivals while maintaining Bajaj’s reputation for competitive pricing.
Launch Expected In 2027
The test mule appears to be at an advanced stage of development, featuring near-production body panels, a finished exhaust system and luggage-mounting provisions.
Although the headlamp and instrument cluster remain concealed beneath camouflage, the production model is expected to offer modern features such as Bluetooth connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation and multiple riding modes.
Once launched, the new Bajaj adventure motorcycle is expected to compete with the Hero Xpulse 210, Suzuki V-Strom SX and Yezdi Adventure.
Conclusion
With a likely KTM-derived engine, adventure-focused design and Bajaj’s aggressive pricing strategy, the upcoming motorcycle could emerge as a compelling option in India’s growing entry-level adventure touring segment. The model is expected to arrive sometime in late 2026 or early 2027.
Source: RushLane, on2wee
