Triumph Motorcycles set to enter Indian market

Iconic British motorcycle maker, Triumph today said it plans to start selling its motorcycles in India from 2012, aiming to capitalise on the rising demand for high-end motorcycles in the country.

''India is a very important motorcycle market and Triumph has assessed it carefully before deciding to step in. We see it as the next step in our global business model," said Nick Bloor, chief executive officer, UK, Triumph Motorcycles.

The company is likely to enter the Indian market with six to eight models initially, and is currently carrying out research on which products to offer to the market, PTI reported.

A spokesperson for the company added that Triumph was currently investigating whether to import complete motorcycles or operate a CKD (Complete Knock Down) system in India.

To head its India foray, the company has appointed Royal Enfield's ex-Europe head Ashish Joshi as its managing director.

Joshi was heading the European operations for Royal Enfield and had established the company's business in Europe. He has over 16 years of experience in Asia and Europe.

Established in 1902, and now based in Hinckley, Leicestershire, UK, Triumph is known for its broad range of bikes, including the 2.3 litre Rocket III, Speed Triple, Daytona 675 and the recently launched Tiger 800.