American manufacturer, UM Motorcycles will make its official entry in the country next year. The company will launch a new flagship motorcycle in the 300-500cc displacement segment in the second quarter of 2015. It was speculated that the company will enter into the Indian market with 200-230cc bikes, but the company has now changed its plans. Currently, UM is working on an all-new more powerful engine that will power the upcoming cruiser.
UM Motorcycles joined hands with Lohia in 50:50 joint venture. UM is likely to locally manufacture the upcoming cruiser at Lohia’s Kashipiur facility in Uttarakhand, and has announced investments of up to Rs. 120 crores in a phased manner. This production plant will have a production capacity of 1,00,000 units per year. Adding to it, the American manufacturer is planning to open 50 dealerships in 2015 as part of the first phase. Most of its dealerships will be located in major metro cities.
At the 2014 Delhi Motors Show, UM Motorcycles showcased its product portfolio including streets bikes, sport bikes, on-off roaders and cruisers. The current flagship product from the UM Motorcycles is the Renegade Commando cruiser that is powered by a 223cc engine. The upcoming 300-500cc cruiser will compete against the Royal Enfield cruisers.
