5 Upcoming Bikes Under 500cc: A frenzy of anticipation is brewing in India’s two-wheeler market as leading producers prepare to introduce sub-500cc motorbikes this year. The motorcycles, already seen being tested, are offering new designs, robust performance, and premium features for enthusiasts looking forward to fresh mid-segment choices.
BMW F 450 GS to Hit the Roads Soon
BMW Motorrad is all set to launch the F 450 GS, a new entry-level adventure motorbike. This bike was initially spotted close to the TVS factory in Hosur and was launched globally at EICMA 2024. Powered by a 48 bhp liquid-cooled twin-cylinder engine, it comes equipped with latest features such as dual-channel ABS, slipper clutch, and Eurogrip Duratrail EB+ tyres. The list of features also includes a quickshifter and alloy wheels. This ADV will reach Indian shores in the next two-three months.
TVS Apache 450 – A Supersport in Progress
TVS is working on the Apache 450, a supersport motorcycle with a faired look, built around BMW’s 450cc engine platform. After the success of the RR310 and RTR 310, this motorcycle continues the BMW-TVS partnership. Although there is no official launch date, it is likely to be released by early 2026. The new Apache will be manufactured at TVS’s Hosur facility.
Norton’s 450cc Inauguration in India
TVS-owned Norton Motorcycles is gearing to launch its first 450cc motorcycle in India in late 2025. It will be a locally assembled naked roadster based on BMW’s 450cc twin-cylinder platform. Engine, hardware, and parts will be common with the Apache 450, strengthening the connection between the two brands. It will be manufactured at Hosur, Tamil Nadu, with Norton making a powerful entry in the mid-capacity segment.
Hero Xpulse 421 – A Real ADV for India
The Xpulse 421 will be Hero’s biggest adventure bike so far, and it’s directly targeting rivals such as the Himalayan 450 and KTM 390 Adventure. This ADV sports a trellis frame, USD forks, monoshock rear suspension with preload adjustment, and a 21-inch front wheel. Hero equips this with off-road essentials such as upswept exhaust, handlebar guards, underbelly pan, and top-box rack. The motorcycle will be unveiled at EICMA 2025 and available for sale early in 2026.
Triumph Thruxton 400 To Be Launched Festively
Triumph will strengthen its 400cc portfolio with the cafe-racer-inspired Thruxton 400. Inspired by the Speed Triple 1200 RR, the Thruxton 400 will be differentiated by bar-end mirrors, clip-on handlebars, and a streamlined fuel tank. Though it will share a few components with the Speed 400, its distinctive styling will differentiate it. Launch is imminent over the festive season this year, adding a sportier alternative to the retro-modern segment.