EICMA 2025: Strategic Assessment of the Global Mid-Capacity and Electric Transition

I. Executive Summary: The EICMA 2025 Strategic Imperative

A. Key Takeaways and Market Impact Forecast

The 82nd International Two-Wheeler Exhibition (EICMA 2025) in Milan is positioned as a critical juncture in the global motorcycle industry, signaling a decisive shift from conceptual presentations to commercial execution. For many major manufacturers, this year’s event is less about disruptive concepts and more about transitioning established, high-profile projects—such as the production versions of the BMW F 450 GS and Royal Enfield’s Flying Flea electric models—into viable market offerings.¹ This focus on commercialization highlights a period of consolidation and refinement within the traditional Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) sector, contrasted sharply by accelerated product segmentation in the burgeoning Electric Vehicle (EV) space.

A central theme dominating the exhibition is the intensification of conflict within the 400cc to 750cc Adventure (ADV) segment. This category has become a strategic global warzone, attracting a diverse range of competitors—including Royal Enfield, BMW, Kawasaki, Hero, and TVS—all fielding highly capable and distinct platforms.³ Success in this segment will be fiercely determined by pricing strategies, localization efficiency, and regional manufacturing capabilities.

Crucially, EICMA 2025 serves as the launching pad for the global ambitions of major Indian manufacturers. Royal Enfield, Hero MotoCorp, and TVS (through its Norton acquisition) are executing simultaneous global debuts across both high-performance ICE and emerging EV platforms. This coordinated effort underscores India’s strategic intent to secure a dominant position in the global middleweight motorcycling market, challenging traditional European and Japanese strongholds.⁵

The electric sector at EICMA 2025 demonstrates significant maturation. EV development is progressing beyond purely urban mobility scooters (like the BMW CE 04 ⁸) and is segmenting into specific motorcycle categories, such as Royal Enfield’s city-focused Flying Flea series and Hero’s sporty Ubex concept.⁹ This transition emphasizes that the future of electrification relies increasingly on fundamental breakthroughs in core control systems and energy efficiency, a trend reflected by the presence of advanced component suppliers detailing their next-generation E-Drive technology.¹¹

B. EICMA 2025 Context and Macro Logistics

EICMA 2025, the 82nd edition of the International Two-Wheeler Exhibition, will be held at Fiera Milano Rho. The event spans six days, running from Tuesday, November 4 to Sunday, November 9, 2025.¹²

The initial two days of the exhibition are critically important for the industry and the press, as they are reserved exclusively for business-to-business (B2B) negotiations, media presentations, and trade operators.¹² This setup ensures that the most strategic announcements and deal-making occur before the general public gains access. Trade visitors are permitted entry on Tuesday, November 4, from 1:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., and on Wednesday, November 5, from 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m..¹³ Press access is slightly earlier on Tuesday, beginning at 8:30 a.m..¹³

The public days begin on Thursday, November 6, and conclude on Sunday, November 9, with access generally starting at 9:30 a.m..¹⁴ Standard day tickets are priced at € 20,00 online and € 25,00 onsite, illustrating the event’s broad appeal to consumer enthusiasts.¹³

Table: EICMA 2025 Key Dates and Access

Dates (2025)	Status	Time	Notes
Tuesday, November 4	Press & Trade Day	8:30 am – 7:30 pm (Press) / 1:00 pm – 7:30 pm (Trade)	Critical day for major OEM announcements
Wednesday, November 5	Press & Trade Day	8:30 am – 7:30 pm	Continued business networking
Thursday, November 6	Public Day	9:30 am – 6:30 pm	Public opening and consumer focus
Friday, November 7	Public Day	9:30 am – 6:30 pm	Full exhibition access
Saturday, November 8	Public Day	9:30 am – 6:30 pm	Peak attendance day
Sunday, November 9	Public Day	9:30 am – 6:30 pm	Final day of event

II. The Adventure Mid-Segment Battleground: 400cc to 750cc Class Revolution (ICE Focus)

The mid-capacity Adventure segment is arguably the most dynamic area of product development globally, and EICMA 2025 is set to showcase the production readiness of numerous high-stakes platforms. The market is witnessing a direct confrontation between high-performance single-cylinder engines and new parallel-twin architectures.

A. Royal Enfield: The 750cc Global Ambition

Royal Enfield is undertaking a crucial expansion with the anticipated launch of the all-new Himalayan 750 at EICMA 2025.⁵ This model represents a deliberate strategic step into a higher-performance category, directly challenging established mid-size ADV offerings from European and Japanese manufacturers.¹⁵

The Himalayan 750 is expected to utilize an all-new 750cc parallel-twin engine, a configuration that industry projections suggest will need to deliver approximately 60–70 horsepower to remain competitive against rivals like the BMW F 850 GS or potential future iterations of the KTM 790/890 series.¹⁵ The motorcycle will incorporate modern safety features such as lean-sensitive ABS and domestic 3-pin charging capability, although the latter may be a feature primarily relevant to specific markets.⁹

The introduction of a larger, twin-cylinder Himalayan requires careful positioning relative to the highly successful Himalayan 450, launched recently. Manufacturers must ensure the new 750, which will inherently be heavier, offers a distinctly superior high-speed cruising and touring experience without eroding the sales of the 450 platform. The 450 is lauded for its relative lightness and more rugged, accessible off-road capability. The 750, therefore, is being designed with a clear touring bias, targeting riders who demand higher cruising speeds and greater luggage capacity for transcontinental travel, thus neatly segmenting Royal Enfield’s adventure portfolio.¹⁵ This strategic layering allows the company to maximize market coverage from entry-level trail riding up to premium mid-capacity adventure touring.

B. BMW Motorrad: Elevating the Entry Point with the F 450 GS

The production reveal of the BMW F 450 GS at EICMA 2025 is a cornerstone event. This model, which was initially presented as a concept at EICMA 2024, is slated to become BMW Motorrad’s new global entry point, effectively replacing the aging G 310 series (including the G 310 GS, R, and RR).¹

Patent images and associated leaks confirm that the F 450 GS will be powered by a 450cc parallel-twin engine, projected to deliver competitive performance figures of approximately 48 horsepower and 45 Nm of torque.¹⁶ The production model shows practical adaptations from the concept, including a lower exhaust, a redesigned windscreen, additional rear body panels with pannier mounts, and, potentially, a shift from wire-spoke wheels to alloy wheels on certain variants.¹⁶ Technology integration is expected to be comprehensive, featuring a TFT display, various ride modes, and cornering ABS.¹⁶

The introduction of the F 450 GS on a new 450cc platform holds significant strategic implications regarding collaboration and cost management. TVS Motor Company is concurrently teasing a new ADV motorcycle that is strongly rumored to utilize the BMW F 450 GS platform.⁶ This confirms the BMW-TVS strategic alliance is expanding beyond the existing 310cc platform. This cooperation provides BMW with access to highly efficient global manufacturing capabilities, likely centered in India, while granting TVS immediate access to advanced, globally certified parallel-twin engine technology.⁶ This cost-efficient, scalable production model suggests the F 450 GS will be priced aggressively to compete directly with the higher-end Royal Enfield twins and Kawasaki middleweights, maximizing volume sales in emerging global markets.

C. Kawasaki: The Revival of the KLE 500/451

Kawasaki is capitalizing on its dual-sport heritage by unveiling the production version of the KLE 500/451 adventure bike, which was initially teased at EICMA the previous year.³ The KLE nameplate, discontinued nearly two decades ago in 2007, is being revived to fill the critical market segment between the smaller KLX/KLR offerings and the more road-oriented Versys lineup.³

The powertrain will be based on the new 451cc parallel-twin engine shared with the Ninja 500, with expected output figures in the range of 45–46 horsepower and 42–43 Nm of torque through a six-speed gearbox.³ This performance closely matches the Honda NX500, establishing the KLE as a direct rival in the 500cc class.³

Crucially, teasers and design details emphasize the bike’s off-road focus. It is expected to feature 21-inch wire-spoked front wheels, a tall windscreen, USD front forks, and rally-style dual-sport bodywork.³ Safety features are set to include a single-disc front brake with a Nissin caliper and dual-channel ABS, with expectations that the rear ABS will be switchable for off-road use, possibly complemented by traction control and ride modes.³

The competitive success of the KLE 500 will significantly depend on its global pricing strategy and import status, particularly in cost-sensitive markets like India. If imported as a Completely Built Unit (CBU), the premium pricing could undermine its market appeal. However, if manufactured as a Completely Knocked Down (CKD) unit, its price is projected to align closely with the Ninja 500 (approximately ₹5.66 lakh ex-showroom).³ This CKD approach would allow Kawasaki to strategically undercut most of its parallel-twin rivals, such as the Honda NX500 (₹6.33 lakh) and the Benelli TRK 502 (₹6.62 lakh), positioning the KLE as the value performance leader in the 500cc twin-cylinder adventure segment.³

D. Hero MotoCorp and TVS Motor Company: The Indian Performance Surge

Indian manufacturers are heavily investing in the mid-capacity ADV segment to ensure their global relevance.

Hero MotoCorp is set to reveal the production-spec version of the highly anticipated Xpulse 421, likely debuting at EICMA 2025 ahead of an anticipated India launch in early 2026.⁴ This model is powered by a new in-house developed 421cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. Early projections suggest the motor will deliver approximately 40–45 horsepower and close to 45 Nm of torque.⁴ The Xpulse 421 is designed as a true, value-focused ADV, targeting direct competition with the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and the premium KTM 390 Adventure S.⁴

Simultaneously, TVS is expected to showcase its own middleweight Adventure bike, leveraging the strategic BMW 450cc platform collaboration. This model is engineered to sit above TVS’s current ADV lineup, targeting the 450cc mid-cap segment. Rumored specifications indicate a competitive machine delivering 45–55 horsepower and 45–50 Nm of torque, featuring long-travel 43 mm upside-down forks, off-road monoshocks, and off-road ABS modes.⁶ This new model is strategically vital for widening TVS’s global market scope and strengthening its export credentials, providing an aggressive price alternative to BMW and KTM in key global territories.⁶

E. KTM: Refinement and Off-Road Specialization

KTM, a segment leader, focuses on refinement and extreme off-road capability with the 2025 launch of the KTM 390 Adventure R. Although unveiled in the previous year, this production model is critical to the 2025 lineup discussion.¹⁹

The 390 Adventure R utilizes the latest 399cc single-cylinder engine from the 390 Duke, producing 45.3 bhp and 39 Nm of torque.²⁰ Its design takes heavy inspiration from KTM’s Dakar Rally bikes, featuring a high fender, vertical windscreen, and a dedicated steel tube frame with a subframe.¹⁹ The primary differentiator is the high-specification, fully adjustable WP suspension, which offers a substantial 230 mm of wheel travel, paired with 18- and 21-inch spoke wheels.²⁰

The specialized components—including the tall 860 mm seat height and proper block-pattern tyres—confirm KTM’s strategy: creating a uniquely capable, specialized ‘R’ variant.²⁰ By doing this, KTM can command a slightly higher price point (estimated to start around ₹3.50 lakh ex-showroom) for the R variant compared to the standard model. This strategy captures the dedicated, hardcore off-road rider and protects KTM’s premium standing, insulating it from the aggressive pricing and high value proposition of rivals like the Himalayan 450 and the upcoming Xpulse 421.⁴

Table: Comparative Technical Specifications: Mid-Capacity ADV Segment (EICMA 2025 Lineup)

Model (OEM)	Engine / Platform	Capacity (cc)	Est. Power (hp)	Front Wheel (in)	Key Technology/Spec	Target Market Position
Himalayan 750 (RE)	Parallel-Twin, ICE	750	60–70 (Est.)	TBD (likely 21)	Lean-sensitive ABS, Touring bias	Premium, High-Speed Touring
F 450 GS (BMW)	Parallel-Twin, ICE	450	~48	TBD (likely 21)	Cornering ABS, TFT Display	Mid-Range Premium Entry
KLE 500 (Kawasaki)	Parallel-Twin, ICE	451	45–46	21 (Spoked)	Dual-channel ABS, Rally Design	Performance Value, Dual-Sport
Xpulse 421 (Hero)	Single-Cylinder, ICE	421	40–45	TBD (likely 21)	True ADV Setup, Steel Trellis Frame	Value Performance, Off-Road Focus
390 ADV R (KTM)	Single-Cylinder, ICE	399	45.3	21 (Spoked)	230mm Adj. WP Suspension, Dakar Styling	Hardcore Off-Road Specialist

III. Electrification Strategy: The Dawn of Production Electric Motorcycles

EICMA 2025 marks a pivotal shift in the electric sector, moving electric platforms beyond generalized concepts and into clearly defined, production-ready market segments.

A. Royal Enfield: The Flying Flea Production Debut

Royal Enfield is transitioning its electric ambition into commercial reality with the production-ready Flying Flea C6 and its derivative, the S6.⁵ The name “Flying Flea” connects the EV future to the brand’s long heritage, specifically referencing its light military motorcycles from World War II.

The Flying Flea C6 is designed primarily as a city commuter, focusing on optimal weight management and durability. It features a frame constructed from forged aluminum and a magnesium battery housing, which is critical for reducing mass and improving cooling efficiency.²¹ The model includes customizable settings for acceleration, braking, and regeneration, managed via Over-The-Air (OTA) updates, and utilizes a smartphone key option.²¹ The S6 is a scrambler-style variant sharing the C6’s technological core but featuring a more rugged visual stance, targeting a broader lifestyle demographic.⁹

The decision to launch these EVs globally at EICMA, rather than prioritizing a domestic Indian debut, signifies that Royal Enfield’s EV strategy is fundamentally tied to international market expansion, specifically targeting regulatory-strict, high-margin Western markets.⁵ By entering the EV segment with production-ready, segmented products (commuter and scrambler) and leveraging their established heritage brand equity, Royal Enfield is positioned not just to catch up, but to immediately secure a trusted place in the nascent global EV motorcycle market.

B. Hero/Vida: Targeting the Sporty EV Segment

Hero MotoCorp’s electric mobility subsidiary, Vida, is making a significant push beyond scooters with the anticipated reveal of the Vida Ubex Electric Motorcycle concept at EICMA 2025.⁷ This model is distinctly road-focused, presenting as a sporty street-naked motorcycle.

The Ubex concept appears notably close to production specifications, featuring high-end componentry such as USD front forks, a rear monoshock, petal disc brakes on both ends, and alloy wheels.²² Its silhouette displays an aggressive design that incorporates elements similar to Hero’s Xtreme line, and it utilizes a mid-mounted motor with the battery unit housed where a traditional engine would reside.⁷ The technical positioning targets the 150-200cc performance segment, intended to challenge existing premium EV offerings like the Matter Aera 5000+ and Ultraviolette F77.¹⁰

This launch is transformative for Hero. Historically, the company dominates the commuter segment, and the EV market in India has been overwhelmingly scooter-centric (over 90% market share).¹⁰ The Ubex marks an aggressive pivot to establish Hero/Vida as a leader in the electric motorcycle category. By debuting a production-ready, sporty street-naked on a global stage like EICMA, Hero validates its technical capabilities (potentially through a collaboration with Zero Motorcycles ²²) and aims to set the benchmark for mass-market performance electric vehicles.

C. KTM and Other EV Innovations

The broader EV landscape at EICMA 2025 includes developments from other major players, reinforcing the trend toward segment-specific electric platforms.

KTM’s E-Duke prototype, which has been publicly displayed, is characterized by its aggressive Duke styling, equipped with a 10 kW (approximately 13.5 hp) motor and a 5.5 kWh battery pack.²³ The anticipated production of the E-Duke will likely be handled by Bajaj in India, further solidifying India’s role as a global manufacturing hub for advanced European-designed platforms.²³

Honda is also making a concerted effort in the EV space, confirming the European launch of its latest fixed-battery electric motorcycle, the WN7, to be fully revealed at EICMA 2025.²⁴ This represents Honda’s commitment to the segment with a non-swappable battery solution, complementing its other global EV strategies.

Furthermore, component technology is gaining prominence. Suppliers such as GTAKE are utilizing EICMA 2025 to showcase breakthroughs in next-generation E-Drive control solutions.¹¹ These electronic drive systems are described as the “brain” and “nerve center” of electric mobility, indicating that future competitive advantage will increasingly stem from smarter, more efficient, and reliable power management and software control, rather than merely incremental battery capacity gains.¹¹

Table: EICMA 2025 Electric Vehicle Launch Matrix

Model (OEM)	Platform Type	Motor Output (kW / hp)	Battery (kWh)	Target Segment	Key Strategic Implication
Flying Flea C6 (RE)	Production EV	TBD	TBD	City Commuter / Naked	Immediate global market entry, leveraging heritage branding.
Vida Ubex (Hero)	Production Concept	TBD (>10kW Est.)	TBD (High Power Est.)	Performance Street Naked	Establishing Indian leadership in sporty EV motorcycles.
E-Duke (KTM)	Prototype	10 kW (13.5 hp)	5.5	Performance Naked	Testbed for future urban EV segment, likely India-produced.
WN7 (Honda)	Production EV	TBD	Fixed Battery	European Market Naked	Honda’s formal entry into the non-swappable battery motorcycle market.

IV. Performance and Heritage: Updates to Naked, Superbike, and Classic Segments

Established European brands are utilizing EICMA 2025 to strategically modernize their core legacy platforms, ensuring they maintain competitive technical parity against rapidly advancing Asian and new-European rivals.

A. Triumph Motorcycles: The Refinement of the Modern Classic Lineup

Triumph’s strategy for 2025 centers on high-value, incremental refinement across its successful modern classic Bonneville family, rather than radical redesigns.

The new 2025 Speed Twin 900 sees substantial hardware upgrades, notably the incorporation of Marzocchi upside-down front forks and a preload-adjustable rear suspension linked to a stiffer, lighter aluminum rear swingarm.²⁵ Crucially, the electronic suite has been modernized with ride-by-wire technology, offering standard Road and Rain riding modes, alongside Cornering ABS and Traction Control, significantly enhancing safety and rider experience in adverse conditions.²⁵

The MY26 Bonneville family also receives essential usability enhancements.²⁶ The Bonneville T120 and T120 Black models now include cruise control as standard equipment. Furthermore, both the Bobber and the Speedmaster MY26 models receive larger 14-liter fuel tanks (an increase of 2 liters), addressing common consumer feedback regarding touring range limitations.²⁶ Ergonomics are also improved with wider, adjustable seats and new, lighter aluminum spoked wheels.²⁶ These focused updates—particularly standardizing safety electronics and improving touring capability—serve to defend Triumph’s premium market position against increasingly feature-rich offerings from competitors like Ducati and the rapidly growing neo-retro segment.

B. The Norton Resurgence (TVS Group Strategy)

Under the full ownership and strategic backing of the TVS Group, the Norton brand is set to stage a significant global comeback at EICMA 2025 with the unveiling of four new models.²⁷ This multi-pronged launch aims to re-establish Norton across key global markets including Europe, the USA, and Asia.

The flagship release will be the all-new V4 Superbike, symbolizing Norton’s commitment to high-performance, hand-built exclusivity.²⁸ Of critical importance to the mid-capacity conflict is the launch of a new middleweight adventure motorcycle, which Norton claims will redefine its class through a blend of premium design and usability.²⁸

Further speculation, supported by TVS trademarking names like “Electra” and “Combat,” suggests the introduction of new modern classic or neo-retro models.²⁸ These models would be directly positioned to challenge the global dominance of the Royal Enfield 650 Twins, leveraging Norton’s iconic British heritage backed by TVS’s financial strength and manufacturing efficiency.

This comprehensive launch demonstrates the TVS Group’s multi-tiered global strategy: TVS provides value and performance using advanced parallel-twin technology derived from BMW ⁶, while Norton focuses on capturing the ultra-premium performance, heritage, and lifestyle segments. This triangulation strategy ensures the TVS Group can compete effectively across every major global motorcycling segment, confirming EICMA 2025 as the official global introduction of this fully integrated corporate vision.

C. KTM’s High-Performance Production Rollout

KTM’s involvement at EICMA 2025 focuses on consolidating its high-performance lineup, with a strong emphasis on quality and readiness for the 2026 model year.

Following previous concept unveils, KTM officially announced a revised production schedule for several flagship models, now commencing production immediately after EICMA.²⁹ Key models entering the assembly line include the highly anticipated KTM 990 RC R, the 990 Duke R, and the entire new 1390 Super Adventure series (R, S, and S EVO).²⁹

The manufacturer explicitly stated that the production timeline was adjusted to ensure these next-generation machines launch with the “highest levels of performance, technology, and rider satisfaction”.²⁹ This deliberate caution and commitment to quality, backed by an extended 4-Year Premium Manufacturer’s Warranty offered across all 2023–2026 large-capacity Street and Adventure models ²⁹, is designed to reassure premium buyers. It validates KTM’s technical leadership and maintains its reputation for providing reliable, yet cutting-edge, high-performance motorcycles.

V. Strategic Insights and Competitive Positioning: Market Implications

A. Trend Analysis: Cautious Innovation vs. Accelerated Electrification

The product announcements at EICMA 2025 reveal a sharp division in research and development (R&D) resource allocation across the motorcycle industry.

For established ICE platforms, industry trends suggest manufacturers are adopting more conservative strategies, preferring to emphasize “stability and continuous improvement” and focus on “minor updates” rather than disruptive technological breakthroughs.² This is evident in Triumph’s focus on electronic and ergonomic refinements ²⁵ and KTM’s prioritization of quality production for its high-margin models.²⁹ This reflects a pragmatic approach: the immediate future of ICE relies on defending established market share in regulated segments (like ADV), requiring only competitive feature updates.

In stark contrast, the EV segment exhibits aggressive, accelerated innovation. EICMA 2025 is a hub for electric superbikes showcasing “jaw-dropping acceleration, instant torque,” and advanced control systems, including the integration of artificial intelligence for adaptive ride modes.³¹ Investment here is focused on high-risk, high-reward technological leaps, such as the development of specialized battery housing (magnesium, forged aluminum ²¹) and fundamental breakthroughs in e-drive control systems.¹¹

This dichotomy highlights a calculated dual R&D pipeline. While investment in ICE is conservative, focusing on shared platforms (like the BMW/TVS 450cc twin) to manage costs, EV investment is directed toward foundational technology to secure long-term market relevance. The industry is effectively hedging its bets by maximizing efficiency in the proven ICE segments while rapidly pushing the limits of technology in electrification.

B. Platform Convergence: The BMW-TVS-Norton Strategy

The expansion of the BMW-TVS collaboration into the critical 450cc parallel-twin segment ¹ is a pivotal development that signals a fundamental shift in industry architecture: the erosion of historical market segmentation based purely on powertrain technology.

By basing its new global entry-level ADV (the F 450 GS) on a platform designed for scalable, cost-efficient manufacturing with TVS ¹, BMW ensures wide market accessibility. TVS simultaneously benefits by gaining access to the high-quality 450cc engine technology for its own premium ADV line ⁶, and the same core platform technology could potentially underpin the new Norton middleweight ADV, leveraging TVS’s deep supply chain integration.²⁸

This convergence means that a single core engine platform will power products spanning three distinct market tiers: a high-spec BMW GS (premium European positioning), a high-value TVS ADV (aggressive pricing for export markets), and a heritage Norton (lifestyle and exclusivity premium).¹ Consequently, traditional powertrain differentiation diminishes. The primary differentiators for consumers will shift dramatically to non-mechanical aspects: software functionality, advanced electronic rider aids (Cornering ABS, ride modes), unique design elements, and the quality of the ownership experience and after-sales service.

C. Pricing Dynamics and Market Outlook

The highly competitive mid-capacity Adventure segment will experience renewed pricing pressure as new entrants solidify their value propositions. The Kawasaki KLE 500, if imported via the cost-efficient CKD route, will be priced strategically to undercut premium Japanese and European rivals.³ Similarly, Hero’s Xpulse 421 and the anticipated TVS 450 ADV will leverage localized supply chains to offer highly capable machines at aggressive price points.⁴

This pressure necessitates that premium players, such as KTM with its 390 Adventure R, must justify their higher cost structure by offering highly specialized, proprietary hardware and superior technological refinement, such as the 230mm fully adjustable WP suspension.²⁰

In the EV space, the pricing landscape remains highly variable due to the novelty of the platforms. While the structural design of Royal Enfield’s Flying Flea (utilizing forged aluminum) suggests a technically sophisticated and likely premium product ²¹, the value provided by Indian manufacturers like RE and Hero, who can leverage highly competitive labor and supply costs, positions them strongly to challenge established EV manufacturers globally based on a compelling value-to-performance ratio.

VI. Conclusion: Forecasting the 2026 Motorcycle Landscape

EICMA 2025 confirms that the global motorcycle market is navigating a complex transition defined by two distinct competitive fronts: mature, highly efficient mid-capacity ICE platforms and rapidly segmenting, technologically aggressive EV platforms.

The immediate future of the ICE market will be dictated by the 450cc (BMW/TVS) and 750cc (Royal Enfield) parallel-twin segments. Success here requires global manufacturers to prioritize reliable electronics, sophisticated safety features, and the ability to maintain profitability despite aggressive pricing from new, highly competitive Asian OEMs who can capitalize on cost-efficient global manufacturing hubs.

The trajectory for the EV segment is clear: the focus is now on commercial execution and market segmentation. Manufacturers that successfully define niche, commercially viable EV motorcycle segments—such as Royal Enfield’s city commuter and Hero/Vida’s performance naked—and integrate robust charging and range capabilities will secure early leadership.

The primary strategic recommendation for original equipment manufacturers is the urgent need to invest in differentiating their product offerings through advanced software, electronic rider aids, and holistic customer experience. As platform convergence becomes the norm—illustrated vividly by the BMW-TVS-Norton strategic alignment—the tangible mechanical components will become standardized across price tiers. The true competitive edge will thus be found in the seamless and sophisticated integration of technology and the unique aesthetic and quality of the brand experience.

Sources

1. BMW F 450 adventure bike patent leaked ahead of launch this year – The Financial Express, accessed October 29, 2025, https://www.financialexpress.com/auto/bike-news/bmw-f-450-adventure-bike-patent-leaked-ahead-of-launch-this-year/3935886/
2. Analysis of Expectations for EICMA 2025 Motorcycle Exhibition, accessed October 29, 2025, https://www.mangaloretoday.com/main/Kozhikode-air-crash-puts-focus-back-on-safety-at-Mangalore-Airport.html?s-news-2322187-2025-10-28-analysis-of-expectations-for-eicma-2025-motorcycle-exhibition
3. Kawasaki prepares to launch new Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 …, accessed October 29, 2025, https://www.livemint.com/auto-news/kawasaki-kle-500-adventure-bike-teased-ahead-of-expected-eicma-2025-debut-11759740441740.html
4. Hero Xpulse 421 – What do we know so far? – BikeWale, accessed October 29, 2025, https://www.bikewale.com/news/hero-xpulse-421-what-do-we-know-so-far/
5. accessed October 29, 2025, https://www.indiatoday.in/auto/bikes/story/know-what-all-royal-enfield-has-in-store-for-eicma-2025-2808986-2025-10-27#:~:text=Royal%20Enfield%20is%20gearing%20up,adventure%20and%20electric%20motorcycle%20portfolios.
6. Mystery TVS Motorcycle Teased For EICMA 2025 — Likely Built On …, accessed October 29, 2025, https://www.timesnownews.com/auto/bike-news/tvs-adv-motorcycle-bmw-platform-eicma-2025-launch-teased-article-152966797
7. Hero Vida Ubex Electric Motorcycle to Debut at EICMA 2025 — A Game Changer Ahead?, accessed October 29, 2025, https://www.motoroids.com/news/hero-vida-ubex-electric-motorcycle-to-debut-at-eicma-2025-a-game-changer-ahead/
8. CE 04 | BMW Motorrad, accessed October 29, 2025, https://www.bmwmotorcycles.com/en/models/urban_mobility/ce04.html
9. Know what all Royal Enfield has in store for EICMA 2025 – India Today, accessed October 29, 2025, https://www.indiatoday.in/auto/bikes/story/know-what-all-royal-enfield-has-in-store-for-eicma-2025-2808986-2025-10-27
10. Vida Electric Bike Concept To Debut EICMA 2025 – ACKO Drive, accessed October 29, 2025, https://ackodrive.com/news/vida-electric-bike-concept-to-debut-eicma-2025/
11. GTAKE to Showcase New Generation E-Drive Tech at EICMA 2025, Redefining Electric Motorcycle Performance, accessed October 29, 2025, https://www.gtake.com/exhibition/gtake-to-showcase-new-generation-e-drive-tech-at-eicma-2025-redefining-electric-motorcycle-performance/
12. EICMA: WITH THAT’S AMORE THE EXHIBITION EVENT PUTS PASSION UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT OF ITS 2025 CAMPAIGN, accessed October 29, 2025, https://www.eicma.it/en/eicma-with-thats-amore-the-exhibition-event-puts-passion-under-the-spotlight-of-its-2025-campaign/
13. General Info – EICMA, accessed October 29, 2025, https://www.eicma.it/en/visit/general-info/
14. EICMA 2025 – Dates and Hotel Options in Milan – Fair Point GmbH, accessed October 29, 2025, https://www.fair-point.com/en/events/eicma?id=5426
15. Top Bike Launches For India | EICMA 2025 | Himalayan 750, BMW F450GS and more., accessed October 29, 2025, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DpWyFw0qeZU
16. BMW F 450 GS Patent Leak: A Game-Changer in the Adventure Motorcycle Segment, accessed October 29, 2025, https://analystip.com/bmw-f-450-gs-patent-leak-a-game-changer-in-the-adventure-motorcycle-segment/
17. Kawasaki KLE To Be Unveiled At EICMA 2025 – MotorBeam, accessed October 29, 2025, https://www.motorbeam.com/kawasaki-kle-to-be-unveiled-at-eicma-2025/
18. This Adventure Bike Could Be The Royal Enfield Himalayan’s Biggest Nemesis – Top Speed, accessed October 29, 2025, https://www.topspeed.com/hero-xpulse-421-patented/
19. KTM 390 Adventure R 2025: adventouring choice – EICMA, accessed October 29, 2025, https://www.eicma.it/en/ktm-390-adventure-r-2025-adventouring-choice/
20. 2025 KTM 390 Adventure R & Enduro R Unveiled At EICMA | India Launch In 2025, accessed October 29, 2025, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_bRO9hv8vE
21. EICMA e-news | Royal Enfield launched electric motorcycle brand Flying Flea, accessed October 29, 2025, https://thepack.news/eicma-e-news-royal-enfield-launched-electric-motorcycle-brand-flying-flea/
22. Hero Vida Ubex Electric Bike Teased For EICMA 2025 Reveal – RushLane, accessed October 29, 2025, https://www.rushlane.com/hero-vida-ubex-electric-bike-teased-for-eicma-2025-reveal-12532849.html
23. KTM E-Duke Electric Prototype Makes First Public Appearance – carandbike, accessed October 29, 2025, https://www.carandbike.com/news/ktm-eduke-electric-prototype-makes-first-public-appearance-3217198
24. EICMA 2025 – thepack.news, accessed October 29, 2025, https://thepack.news/tag/eicma-2025/
25. Triumph Motorcycles launches a new Speed Twin 900 for 2025 – EICMA, accessed October 29, 2025, https://www.eicma.it/en/triumph-motorcycles-launches-a-new-speed-twin-900-for-2025/
26. Triumph Motorcycles unveils an evolution of its Bonneville line-up – EICMA, accessed October 29, 2025, https://www.eicma.it/en/triumph-motorcycles-unveils-an-evolution-of-its-bonneville-line-up/
27. Norton Motorcycles to debut four new bikes at EICMA 2025, led by all-new V4 superbike, accessed October 29, 2025, https://auto.hindustantimes.com/auto/two-wheelers/norton-motorcycles-to-debut-four-new-bikes-at-eicma-2025-led-by-all-new-v4-superbike-41761302364444.html
28. Norton To Showcase 4 New Motorcycles At EICMA: All Details Here – DriveSpark, accessed October 29, 2025, https://www.drivespark.com/two-wheelers/2025/4-new-norton-motorcycles-to-be-showcased-at-eicma-077979.html
29. KTM Confirms Production Timeline Shift for Next-Gen 2026 Street & Adventure Models, accessed October 29, 2025, https://www.ktm-motorcycles.hr/en/news/street-and-adventure-production
30. KTM teases five new bikes ahead of EICMA return – Powersports Business, accessed October 29, 2025, https://powersportsbusiness.com/top-stories/2024/10/03/ktm-teases-five-new-bikes-ahead-of-eicma-return/
31. EICMA 2025 Highlights: Electric Superbikes and Industry News – 2Wheels Hero, accessed October 29, 2025, https://2wheelshero.com/blogs/moto-news-and-stories/eicma-2025-highlights-electric-superbikes-and-industry-news

Our Social Media Handles

• Instagram : LivingWithGravity
• Medium : Akash Dolas
• YouTube Channel : Gear and Shutter
• Facebook : LivingWithGravity