2026 is already looking busy for Indian two-wheeler buyers
If buying a new motorcycle or scooter is on your resolution list this year, you’re in luck. Several major manufacturers have lined up important launches for the Indian market. From long-awaited adventure bikes to updated commuter legends and new electric scooters, 2026 promises variety, evolution and a bit of excitement.
Based on official showcases, manufacturer statements and industry events like EICMA, Bharat Mobility Expo and brand-specific showcases, here’s a clean and realistic look at the bikes and scooters coming to India in 2026, without the burden of hype or fabricated figures.
Bajaj Auto: 2026 will be the year of the Pulsar
Bajaj has made its intentions clear. Rajiv Bajaj himself has said that 2026 will be the year for the Pulsar.
Currently, Bajaj sells 11 Pulsar models in India, including three classic Pulsars. These classic Pulsars have remained largely unchanged for almost two decades. That story finally changes in 2026.
What to expect from the new Pulsar
- Updates likely for 125cc and 150cc Pulsars
- Slightly modern design language
- Shift from twin rear shock absorbers to mono-shocks
- Updated chassis
- Possible improvements to the engine are likely.
These updates are aimed at keeping the Pulsar relevant without losing its identity. Bajaj is not reinventing the wheel here, and that is probably a smart move.
Expected launch timeline
Bajaj plans to launch these updates in the second half of 2026, around the festive season.
Royal Enfield: Big Expectations with Big Bikes
Whenever a futuristic motorcycle comes along, Royal Enfield dominates the discussion. 2026 will be no different.
Royal Enfield Himalayan 750
The Himalayan 750 is one of the most anticipated bikes for India.
Royal Enfield had already showcased this motorcycle at EICMA (Italy). But interestingly, it was not seen at Royal Enfield’s own Motoverse event in India. However, its launch in India seems inevitable.
What we know so far
- 750cc engine derived from the existing 648cc platform
- Built for adventure touring, not extreme off-roading
- Expected wheel setup: 19-inch front, 17-inch rear
- Focus on versatility and long-distance usability
Expected launch
Royal Enfield is likely to introduce the Himalayan 750 in the second half of 2026, possibly by the end of the year.
Royal Enfield Bullet 650
The Bullet 650 looks like Royal Enfield is listening to its most loyal fans and is taking action.
This motorcycle combines the familiar Bullet identity with a proven 650cc engine platform.
Key Highlights
- Traditional Bullet silhouette
- Stepped seat
- Hand-painted tank straps
Visuals that stay true to the original Bullet character
Expected launch
The bike is likely to arrive in early 2026, perhaps even in the first quarter.
Continental GT 750
This one sits firmly in the “possible” category.
Royal Enfield has already made a 750cc engine for the Himalayan. At Motoverse, the brand also showcased the Continental GT 750 race bike. While the race bike is significantly different from the road bike, the groundwork is there.
Will it launch in 2026?
There has been no confirmation from Royal Enfield, but the idea is not unrealistic.
Honda: Arrival of e-Clutch technology in India
Honda’s strength has always been on refinement and simple engineering. In 2026, Honda brings a new technology to Indian riders, the e-Clutch.
What is Honda’s e-Clutch?
The e-Clutch electronically activates the clutch, allowing riders to shift gears easily without using the clutch lever.
- Three modes: Soft, Medium, Hard
- Adjustable shift aggressiveness
- Option to switch back to manual clutch control
This technology reduces the risk of stalling, especially on larger motorcycles.
Models expected to get the e-Clutch
- NX 500
- XL 750 Transalp
- Hornet 750
BSA Thunderbolt
BSA surprised many people by showing off the Thunderbolt ADV at EICMA.
What makes it interesting
- A heavily revised version of the existing platform
- Strong rally-bike design influence
- Visuals suited to long-distance overlanding and rough terrain
Mechanical details are currently limited. However, BSA has hinted that the Thunderbolt could arrive in 2026.
Kawasaki: Updated Ninja ZX-10R
Kawasaki has continued to bring global models to India with minimal delays.
What’s new in the ZX-10R
- New aerodynamic components added
- Up to 25% more downforce
- Improved chassis geometry
- Rearranged ram-air intake
- Subtle design updates
Expected India launch
The ZX-10R is expected to arrive in India in the second half of 2026, after its global rollout.
Hero MotoCorp: Karizma XMR 250
Hero is looking to revive the Karizma story properly this time.
The Karizma XMR 210 impressed riders but struggled in sales. The upcoming XMR 250 aims to fix that.
What we know
- Showcased at EICMA 2024
- Bigger engine than the XMR 210
- Hero already sells a naked bike that uses the same engine
Expected launch
Hero is likely to launch the Karizma XMR 250 in 2026.
KTM: Hardcore Adventure and Possible Supersport
KTM has at least one confirmed bike launch and one possible surprise planned.
KTM 390 Adventure R
This motorcycle takes the existing 390 Adventure concept and pushes it beyond off-road.
Key details
- 230 mm suspension travel (front and rear)
- WP Xplor suspension
- 272 mm ground clearance
- Strong focus on trail riding
This bike could make serious off-road riding more accessible in India.
KTM RC 490: Still not confirmed
The RC 390 has faded from the Indian lineup. KTM is testing the twin-cylinder RC 490 globally.
- No official confirmation
- The RC 390 could replace rather than update it
- If launched, it could likely arrive in late 2026.
Yamaha: Two new electric scooters for India
Yamaha showcased four products in November 2025. Two were launched immediately. And two are coming in 2026.
Electric scooters coming in 2026
- Yamaha Aerox Electric
- Yamaha EC-06, developed with River Indy
Both scooters were found to be ready for production.
Expected launch
This electric scooter could arrive in the first half of 2026.
Triumph: Trident 800 may join lineup
Triumph is yet to confirm a new launch. However, the Trident 800 makes strategic sense.
Why Trident 800 fits in India
- Trident 660 currently serves as the entry-level Triumph
- Global demand is shifting towards higher-capacity bikes
- Familiar engine architecture
- Already on sale internationally
Expected status
Not confirmed, but very likely for 2026.
BMW Motorrad: 450 GS is almost here
The BMW 450 GS will replace the 310 GS as BMW’s entry-level ADV.
What’s important about the 450 GS
- Twin-cylinder engine
- Approximately 48 PS and 43 Nm
- Premium BMW build quality
- Unusual features in this segment, such as heated grips, etc.
Expected launch
BMW is expected to launch the 450 GS in January 2026.
Source: India Mobility Expo and global BMW Motorrad showcase.
New Brands to Watch: Norton and Vinfast
Norton Motorcycles
TVS acquired Norton in 2020. Since then, Norton has been developing:
- V4 Superbikes
- 700cc ADV
- 400cc and 600cc platforms
The 400cc ADV could be Norton’s first Indian product. However, the brand’s V4 superbikes will be the most attractive.
Vinfast: Bringing electric two-wheelers
Vinfast entered India with a car in 2025. But Vinfast also manufactures several electric two-wheelers globally.
- Actively exploring the feasibility of the Indian market
- Planning a large-scale entry into India
- Electric two-wheelers likely to arrive by December 2026
Source : upcoming bikes and scooter 2026
