Bajaj

Just over two years since its foray into the small bike segment with the Speed 400, Triumph has unveiled the latest in its Thruxton cafe racer series with roughly the same underpinnings, but more distinctive modern classic styling.

Bajaj Auto, the world's third largest motorcycle manufacturer, has gone from a partner to KTM to taking over the Austrian brand altogether. That's thanks to a $905-million shot in the arm from the Indian two-wheeler giant at the eleventh hour.

Following a vote at the regional court in Ried im Innkreis, Upper Austria, KTM's creditors have approved a €548 million (US$576 million) restructuring plan, which enables the company to resume production by mid-March and start making debt repayments.

In the midst of KTM AG's financial struggles, brand owner Pierer Mobility revealed that it's selling a 50.1% controlling stake in MV Agusta back to the Sardarov family for "an enterprise value in the mid-double-digit millions."

A fascinating new type of motorcycle has finally hit the road. The Bajaj Freedom 125 sells for less than US$1,150, and it's the first bike to offer a 2-kg Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) tank alongside a 2-liter petrol tank for cheaper, cleaner riding.

As India's gargantuan motorcycle market matures, Indian manufacturers are partnering with or acquiring brand names that focus on provenance, heritage and authenticity: Peugeot (since 1901), Triumph (since 1902), BSA (since 1903) and Husqvarna (since 1903).​