This Week in Motorcycling: Electric, Hydrogen, and Heritage Machines on the Horizon

This week, we’ve seen a wave of brands unveiling or teasing their upcoming models as the industry gears up for the autumn season.

Royal Enfield is teasing the arrival of its electric Himalayan across North India.
Kawasaki has revived its hydrogen-powered motorcycle project under the “Mission H24” banner.
KTM continues its global rollout of new 2025 models with a focus on transparency in scheduling.
And MV Agusta reclaims its place as a privately owned marque with the launch of the ultra-premium Superveloce 1000 Ago.

Let’s dive into the highlights.

Upcoming Model: Royal Enfield’s Electric Himalayan

Video from North India Confirms the Incoming EV

Royal Enfield is ramping up efforts with its long-awaited electric Himalayan, rumored to be called the Him-E. Recent footage from the mountainous Ladakh region shows the prototype in testing alongside the company’s design chief and CEO—strong evidence that the project is nearing a major milestone.

Details so far:

• Large 21-inch front wheel with aggressive knobby tires

• One-piece seat and no visible fuel tank (typical of an EV platform)

• Dual battery packs housed within a central trellis-style frame

• External and internal cooling fins for improved thermal management

The internal-combustion, twin-cylinder Himalayan is expected to launch for the 2026 model year, while the electric variant could see additional updates—and possibly a late 2025 release.

The Hydrogen Buzz: Kawasaki’s “Mission H24” Returns

Hydrogen-Powered Superbike Demonstrated in Europe

Kawasaki continues to push alternative energy solutions with its hydrogen combustion motorcycle—part of the HySE (Hydrogen Small Mobility & Engine Technology Association) collaboration. Based on a supercharged Ninja platform, the bike uses hydrogen stored in rear-mounted tanks.

Key points:

• Nearly zero emissions—producing only water vapor

• Designed for high-performance applications where battery range is limited

• Recently showcased during a demonstration lap at a European endurance event

This approach presents a compelling alternative to battery-electric motorcycles, particularly for riders who prioritize long range and rapid refueling.

KTM: 2025 Models Rolling Out Globally

Models Include: 390 Enduro R, 390 Adventure R, and 390 SMC R

KTM is methodically rolling out its updated 2025 lineup with transparent scheduling by region. Below is the release timeline for major models:

KTM 390 SMC R

• May: North America, Asia

• June–August: Europe, UK, South Africa, Oceania

KTM 390 Enduro R

• May: North America, Asia

• June–August: Europe, UK, South Africa, Oceania

KTM 390 Adventure R

• May–June: North America, Asia

• July–August: Europe, UK, South Africa, Oceania

KTM 125 SMC R & Enduro R

• July: Europe, UK, Asia

KTM 390 Adventure X

• May–August: Global rollout across all major regions

Despite previous financial hurdles, KTM appears committed to transparency, consistency, and global coordination in delivering its new models.

MV Agusta Rises Again with the Superveloce 1000 Ago

Limited to 83 Units Worldwide — Honoring Giacomo Agostini

To mark its 80th anniversary, MV Agusta has unveiled the Superveloce 1000 Ago—a breathtaking tribute to legendary racer Giacomo Agostini.

Highlights:

• Full carbon-fiber bodywork finished in Fire Red Matt and Magnum Silver Matt

• Inline-four engine with race-tuned electronics

• Öhlins electronic suspension and Brembo braking system

• Five-year factory warranty

• Optional racing suit and helmet inspired by Agostini’s classic gear

Each of the 83 units is personally signed by Agostini himself, with a price tag of $80,098 USD, reflecting both exclusivity and heritage.

Final Thoughts

From Royal Enfield’s rugged EV prototype to Kawasaki’s hydrogen-powered experiment, and from KTM’s globally synchronized rollouts to MV Agusta’s high-end collectible tribute, this week’s news proves one thing:

The motorcycle industry is evolving fast—and in fascinatingly diverse directions.

Whether you’re a trail-loving adventurer, an eco-conscious commuter, or a collector with a taste for legacy machines, the horizon has never looked more exciting.