The sub-500cc motorcycle segment in India is heating up with several highly anticipated launches lined up for 2024. From adventure tourers to street fighters, these upcoming motorcycles promise to deliver the perfect balance of performance, features, and value. In this article, we’ll explore five game-changing bikes from diverse manufacturers – ranging from homegrown Hero MotoCorp to premium British marque Triumph – that are set to redefine their respective categories. Whether you’re a daily commuter or a weekend warrior, these sub-500cc machines deserve a spot on your watchlist.
Why the Sub-500cc Segment is Booming in India
The sub-500cc motorcycle segment has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years, becoming a sweet spot for both manufacturers and riders. Several factors contribute to this boom:
Perfect Performance Balance
These motorcycles offer sufficient power for highway cruising while remaining manageable for daily city commutes. With outputs typically ranging from 25-45 bhp, they provide enough excitement without overwhelming newer riders.
Affordability Factor
Sub-500cc bikes strike an excellent balance between premium features and accessible pricing. They deliver advanced technology and design elements at a fraction of the cost of larger displacement machines, making them attainable for India’s growing middle class.
Evolving Rider Preferences
Today’s young riders prioritize style, technology, and versatility over raw power. The sub-500cc segment caters perfectly to these preferences with modern features like ride-by-wire throttle, multiple riding modes, and smartphone connectivity.
Regulatory Advantages
Lower displacement motorcycles benefit from more favorable taxation and insurance rates compared to their larger counterparts, making them more economical to own and maintain over the long term.
Quick Comparison: Upcoming Sub 500 cc Bikes
| Model | Brand | Engine | Expected Power | Expected Price (Ex-showroom) | Expected Launch |
| Hero XPulse 421 | Hero MotoCorp | 421cc Single-cylinder | 40-45 PS | ₹2.40-2.60 Lakh | June 2024 |
| KTM 390 SMC R | KTM | 399cc Single-cylinder | 45 PS | ₹3.50-3.60 Lakh | March 2024 |
| TVS Apache RTX 300 | TVS | 299cc Single-cylinder | 35 PS | ₹2.50 Lakh | March 2024 |
| Triumph Thruxton 400 | Triumph | 398cc Single-cylinder | 40 PS | ₹2.60 Lakh | July 2024 |
| Aprilia Tuono 457 | Aprilia | 457cc Parallel-twin | 47 PS | ₹4.00 Lakh | February 2024 |
1. Hero XPulse 421 – The Adventure Game-Changer
Hero MotoCorp is set to elevate its adventure motorcycle lineup with the highly anticipated XPulse 421. First showcased as a concept at EICMA, this larger sibling to the popular XPulse 200 aims to compete directly with the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 in the growing adventure touring segment.
Expected Specifications
- Engine: 421cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder
- Power: 40-45 PS (expected)
- Torque: 45 Nm (expected)
- Transmission: 6-speed gearbox
- Fuel Capacity: 15 liters
- Expected Mileage: 30-35 km/l
- Seat Height: 825mm (estimated)
- Weight: 185kg (estimated)
Key Features
The Hero XPulse 421 is expected to come loaded with features designed for serious adventure riding:
- Long-travel suspension with 200mm+ travel
- 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wire-spoke wheels
- Full-color TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity
- Multiple riding modes including an off-road specific mode
- LED lighting all around
- Switchable ABS for off-road riding
Expected Price and Launch Timeline
Hero is expected to price the XPulse 421 competitively between ₹2.40-2.60 lakh (ex-showroom), positioning it as a value-for-money alternative in the adventure segment. The motorcycle is slated for launch in June 2024, just in time for the monsoon adventure season.
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2. KTM 390 SMC R – The Supermoto Specialist
KTM is expanding its 390 platform with the introduction of the 390 SMC R, a dedicated supermoto that promises to bring the thrill of motocross-style riding to the street. Based on the same platform as the 390 Duke and 390 Adventure, this specialized machine targets riders looking for an agile, lightweight motorcycle with razor-sharp handling.
Expected Specifications
- Engine: 399cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder
- Power: 45 PS @ 8,500 rpm
- Torque: 39 Nm @ 7,000 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed with quickshifter
- Fuel Capacity: 9 liters
- Expected Mileage: 25-30 km/l
- Seat Height: 860mm
- Weight: 154kg (dry)
Key Features
The KTM 390 SMC R will come equipped with supermoto-specific features:
- 17-inch wheels front and rear with road-biased tires
- WP APEX suspension with 20-click rebound adjustability
- Brembo braking system with 320mm front disc
- Supermoto ABS mode allowing rear wheel lockup
- 4.2-inch TFT display with KTM MY RIDE connectivity
- Three riding modes: Street, Sport, and Supermoto
Expected Price and Launch Timeline
The KTM 390 SMC R is expected to be priced between ₹3.50-3.60 lakh (ex-showroom), positioning it as a premium offering in the sub-500cc segment. KTM plans to launch this model in March 2024, targeting the summer riding season.
Experience the Supermoto Thrill
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3. TVS Apache RTX 300 – The Adventure Tourer
TVS Motor Company is set to enter the mid-capacity adventure touring segment with the Apache RTX 300. Building on the success of its Apache series, this new model represents TVS’s first serious foray into the adventure motorcycle category, aiming to capture a share of this rapidly growing market.
Expected Specifications
- Engine: 299cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder
- Power: 35 PS (expected)
- Torque: 28.5 Nm (expected)
- Transmission: 6-speed with slipper clutch
- Fuel Capacity: 14 liters
- Expected Mileage: 32-35 km/l
- Seat Height: 810mm (estimated)
- Weight: 175kg (estimated)
Key Features
The TVS Apache RTX 300 is expected to come with a host of features aimed at both on-road comfort and off-road capability:
- Tall windscreen and semi-fairing for wind protection
- Upright riding position with wide handlebars
- 21-inch front and 17-inch rear wheel setup
- Full-color TFT instrument cluster with SmartXonnect technology
- Multiple riding modes with traction control
- LED lighting package
- Dual-channel ABS with off-road mode
Expected Price and Launch Timeline
TVS is expected to price the Apache RTX 300 at around ₹2.50 lakh (ex-showroom), making it competitive against rivals like the Royal Enfield Himalayan and Yezdi Adventure. The motorcycle is scheduled for launch in March 2024.
Adventure Awaits with the Apache RTX 300
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4. Triumph Thruxton 400 – The Modern Cafe Racer
Following the success of the Speed 400 and Scrambler 400X, Triumph is expanding its small-displacement lineup with the Thruxton 400 – a cafe racer that combines classic British styling with modern engineering. Built in partnership with Bajaj Auto, this motorcycle aims to bring Triumph’s iconic cafe racer heritage to a more accessible price point.
Expected Specifications
- Engine: 398.15cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder
- Power: 40 PS @ 8,000 rpm (expected)
- Torque: 37.5 Nm @ 6,500 rpm (expected)
- Transmission: 6-speed with slip-assist clutch
- Fuel Capacity: 13 liters
- Expected Mileage: 30-32 km/l
- Seat Height: 800mm (estimated)
- Weight: 180kg (estimated)
Key Features
The Triumph Thruxton 400 is expected to feature distinctive cafe racer elements:
- Clip-on handlebars for a sporty riding position
- Single-piece seat with rear cowl
- Round LED headlight with classic styling
- Semi-digital instrument cluster with analog tachometer
- Showa upside-down front forks
- Twin rear shock absorbers with piggyback reservoirs
- Dual-channel ABS with Bosch 9.3 MB system
Expected Price and Launch Timeline
Triumph is expected to price the Thruxton 400 at around ₹2.60 lakh (ex-showroom), positioning it as a premium offering in the modern classic segment. The motorcycle is slated for launch in July 2024.
Embrace the Cafe Racer Spirit
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5. Aprilia Tuono 457 – The Italian Streetfighter
Following the successful launch of the RS 457 sportbike, Aprilia is bringing its naked streetfighter variant – the Tuono 457 – to the Indian market. This Italian machine aims to offer the perfect blend of performance, handling, and everyday usability in a stylish package that stays true to Aprilia’s racing heritage.
Expected Specifications
- Engine: 457cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin
- Power: 47 PS @ 9,000 rpm
- Torque: 43.5 Nm @ 6,500 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed with quickshifter (optional)
- Fuel Capacity: 14.5 liters
- Expected Mileage: 25-28 km/l
- Seat Height: 800mm
- Weight: 159kg (dry)
Key Features
The Aprilia Tuono 457 will come equipped with features typically found on larger displacement motorcycles:
- Triple LED headlight cluster with distinctive design
- 5-inch TFT color dashboard with smartphone connectivity
- Ride-by-wire throttle with multiple riding modes
- Traction control with multiple levels
- 41mm USD front fork and rear monoshock, both adjustable
- Dual-channel ABS with cornering function
- Radial-mount front brake calipers
Expected Price and Launch Timeline
The Aprilia Tuono 457 is expected to be priced at around ₹4.00 lakh (ex-showroom), making it the premium offering in this list. The motorcycle is scheduled for launch in February 2024, making it one of the earliest arrivals among these upcoming models.
Experience Italian Performance
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Which Upcoming Sub-500cc Bike is Right for You?
The upcoming sub-500cc motorcycles of 2024 offer something for every type of rider. Here’s our recommendation based on your riding preferences:
For Adventure Seekers
If you love exploring off the beaten path, the Hero XPulse 421 and TVS Apache RTX 300 are your best bets. The XPulse offers more power and likely better off-road capability, while the Apache RTX may provide better on-road comfort for those who primarily stick to highways with occasional trail riding.
For Urban Riders
City dwellers who enjoy weekend canyon carving will appreciate the KTM 390 SMC R and Aprilia Tuono 457. The KTM offers razor-sharp handling and a more aggressive riding position, while the Aprilia provides more sophisticated electronics and the smoothness of a twin-cylinder engine.
For Classic Enthusiasts
Riders who appreciate timeless design with modern performance should look no further than the Triumph Thruxton 400. Its cafe racer styling combined with reliable engineering makes it perfect for both daily commuting and weekend rides with style.
Find Your Perfect Ride
Ready to experience these exciting new motorcycles? Register your interest now to receive notifications when these bikes arrive at dealerships near you and be among the first to schedule a test ride.
The sub-500cc segment continues to evolve with these upcoming launches, offering Indian riders more choices than ever before. Whether you prioritize adventure capability, urban agility, or classic styling, there’s a perfect motorcycle waiting for you in 2024. Stay tuned for more updates as these exciting machines make their way to showrooms across the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which upcoming sub-500cc bike offers the best value for money?
Based on expected specifications and pricing, the Hero XPulse 421 likely offers the best value proposition with its combination of features, performance, and competitive pricing around ₹2.40-2.60 lakh. The TVS Apache RTX 300 is also expected to offer excellent value at its ₹2.50 lakh price point.
Which of these upcoming bikes is best for beginners?
The TVS Apache RTX 300 and Triumph Thruxton 400 are likely to be the most beginner-friendly options due to their manageable power delivery, comfortable ergonomics, and predictable handling characteristics. The Hero XPulse 421 would also be suitable for beginners interested in adventure riding.
Which upcoming sub-500cc bike has the most advanced features?
The Aprilia Tuono 457 is expected to offer the most advanced feature set, including a sophisticated electronics package with ride-by-wire throttle, multiple riding modes, traction control with various levels, and cornering ABS. The KTM 390 SMC R will likely come in second with its comprehensive electronics suite.
Will these bikes be manufactured in India?
Yes, most of these motorcycles will be manufactured or assembled in India. The Hero XPulse 421 and TVS Apache RTX 300 will be fully manufactured in India. The Triumph Thruxton 400 will be manufactured by Bajaj in Pune. The Aprilia Tuono 457 will be produced at Piaggio’s facility in Baramati. The KTM 390 SMC R will be manufactured at Bajaj’s Chakan plant.
When can I book these upcoming motorcycles?
Booking timelines will vary by manufacturer, but typically open 2-4 weeks before the official launch. The Aprilia Tuono 457 and KTM 390 SMC R bookings may open as early as January and February 2024 respectively. For the most accurate information, we recommend registering your interest with the respective manufacturers or authorized dealerships.