Italian bikemaker Ducati could partner with Hero MotoCorp to develop 300 cc single-cylinder motorcycles, speculates Bikewale. In April 2017, rumours were rife that Hero MotoCorp could buy Ducati from Volkswagen Group, which stayed rumours.
According to the publication, the Italian two-wheeler manufacturer has ambitious growth plans for emerging markets by developing an entry-level premium motorcycle. Ducati will design the 300 cc motorcycle in Italy, while Hero MotoCorp will manufacture and distribute the bike in India, speculates Bikewale.
Hero MotoCorp could bring its expertise in low-cost manufacturing along with its vast distribution network which could be tapped to gain quick market share. The report further claims that Ducati could develop two bikes on the 300 cc platform - a naked roadster and an adventure tourer.
The Ducati 300 cc motorcycles will rival the BMW G 310 R, KTM 390 Duke, BMW G 310 GS and the upcoming KTM 390 Adventure. The publication claims that Hero MotoCorp is the obvious choice for Ducati as most Indian two-wheeler manufacturers already have partnerships with various global bikemakers. Bajaj has partnerships with KTM and Triumph, while TVS Motor Company has a long-term tie-up with BMW Motorrad.
Moreover, sources in Hero MotoCorp recently denied it being Harley Davidson's partner for manufacturing the latter's upcoming 250-500 cc cruiser motorcycles.
The new 300 cc, single cylinder engine is likely to have four-valves, liquid cooling, and fuel injection. The entry bikes will share the engine, gearbox, electricals, and chassis but will receive different design and ergonomics, as is the case with BMW's G and GS 310.
The publication reveals that the naked roadster could feature design elements from the Ducati Scrambler, while the other bike is likely to be a Multistrada 300. However, with the Italian bikemaker already having the Scrambler Sixty2 (400 cc), the entry-level roadster could be a mini Monster 300.
Also Read: Ducati Scrambler 1100 priced at INR 11.50 lakh in India - Report
It would be interesting to see what role Hero MotoCorp plays in this partnership, given that it already has a massive R&D center in Jaipur.
[Source - Bikewale.com]
