2026 is shaping up to be a blockbuster year for two-wheeler enthusiasts in India. With several important motorcycle launches in the pipeline, and a few new global brands also preparing to enter or re-enter the Indian market. From entry-level sportbikes to middleweight ADVs and premium twins, the upcoming lineup looks extremely promising. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most exciting bikes expected in 2026.
Suzuki’s big move into the adventure segment
Suzuki has been consistently strong in sales thanks to models like the Gixxer and Access, but it still lacks a truly ambitious product in the high-capacity segment. With the 300-500cc range growing rapidly and adventure touring becoming increasingly popular in India, 2026 could finally be the right time for Suzuki. The brand is expected to introduce a single-cylinder 398cc adventure motorcycle based on the engine found in the DR-Z4S and DR-Z4SM. The bike has already received positive reviews globally. Adding to the excitement, Suzuki recently inaugurated a new manufacturing plant in Haryana with an annual capacity of 7.5 lakh units, which has fueled expectations of the new launch. A Gixxer facelift is also on the cards.
KTM’s comeback year
After a turbulent year in 2025, KTM is now back on track under Bajaj’s leadership, and 2026 will be a crucial one for the brand. KTM is expected to launch the RC 160, which will be positioned directly opposite the Yamaha R15. Based on the Duke 160 platform, it will feature sporty styling and improved ergonomics. Along with that, the RC 390 (next-gen) based on the updated Duke 390 is also expected by early or mid-2026.
However, the most exciting KTM launch is the KTM 650 Duke. The motorcycle will use a new 650cc parallel-twin engine and a chassis derived from the 790 Duke, with its production hub being India. After testing in Europe, the bike is expected to be launched by mid-2026 and will compete with the likes of the Kawasaki Z650, Triumph Trident 660 and other middleweight nakeds.
Royal Enfield is getting bigger
Royal Enfield continues to dominate the market with average monthly sales of around 1 lakh units, but now the brand is eyeing the premium big-bike space. By the end of 2026, we will see the launch of the Himalayan 750, an all-new adventure motorcycle. It will feature a 750cc twin-cylinder engine that will produce around 55 HP and 65-70 Nm of torque. Built from the ground up, this ADV is expected to offer a strong price-to-value proposition, making it one of the most anticipated launches.
Additionally, the Royal Enfield Bullet 650, which was already showcased at EICMA and Motoverse, is expected to go on sale by January or February 2026, bringing classic appeal with modern twin-cylinder performance.
BMW F450GS: A baby GS with big features
BMW Motorrad is gearing up to launch the F450GS in India next year. Powered by a 420cc twin-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine, it comes with a six-speed gearbox and Easy Ride Clutch technology. In terms of design, it looks similar to a proper Mini GS, with USD forks, alloy wheels and optional spoked wheels. Feature highlights include a 6.5-inch TFT display, riding modes, traction control, heated grips and switchable dual-channel ABS. Internationally, it is offered in four variants, and it will be interesting to see how BMW prices it in India.
Hero Karizma 250: A legendary name returns
Hero MotoCorp is expected to launch the Karizma 250 in early 2026. This fully-faired motorcycle will replace the Karizma XMR 210 and will use the 250cc engine from the Xtreme 250, which produces around 29 hp of power and 25 Nm of torque. While the design looks sporty and modern, the big question remains, can it truly live up to the iconic Karizma legacy? Enthusiasts will be watching closely.
Bajaj, Yamaha and new entrants
Bajaj has already confirmed that 2026 will be the “year of the Pulsar”, as the brand completes 25 years. So expect refreshed models, anniversary editions and possibly a new Pulsar. Meanwhile, according to reports in India Today, Yamaha is also expected to launch the Yamaha R2 next year.
On the brand-entry front, CF Moto is all set to re-enter India with the 450 MT adventure bike, which has received positive reviews internationally. In partnership with TVS, Norton Motorcycles will also officially enter the Indian market. Adding to the mix, VinFast is gearing up to introduce its electric scooter in India.
