When Government Of India opened the gate for superbikes in 2007, everyone expect the Hayabusa and R1 to hit India market. Recently, Yamaha launched superbikes – R1 and MT-01 in India. Now its Suzuki’s turn but unlike Yamaha, Suzuki plans a CKD (Completely Knocked Down) route that means more affordable superbikes.Assembling the bikes in India will cut the cost of a superbike significantly, compared to importing it as a CBU(Completely Built Unit). Also,Suzuki is planning to assemble 400-600cc bikes in India that could see prices of power bikes come down to Rs 4-5 lakh. Suzuki Motorcycle India V-P Atul Gupta told that the company would shortly be sending some of the bikes to Indian vehicle certification agency Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), Pune, for homologation. “The homologation process is likely to take between three to six months and we can expect some of these bikes possibly by Diwali,” he said. “Indian Government move to relax certification process for 800-cc plus vehicles (by accepting certification from EU against existing policy of only from the country of origin) would also help in launch of these bikes in India”, he added. Suzuki may bring superbikes like GS500, GSR600 and RMZ-450 to indian market.
125cc,150cc and 200cc..
Suzuki will launch two new models in 2008. While one will be in the 150-cc segment, the other could be a premium offering in the 125-cc segment. Suzuki is also looking at launching a 200 cc bike, though Gupta said a final decision would be taken closer to the launch.
Expansion plan:
In line with the expansion of its product range, Suzuki will expand its dealer network to maximise its reach. Suzuki intends to set up a network of 400 outlets over the next three years, compared to 140 stores at present. And, during this period its investment could reach Rs 700 crore while the Gurgaon facility could be churning out 4 lakh two-wheelers by 2010, compared to 1.7 lakh at present.