Norton’s resurgence is going to kick off soon with its new Manx and Atlas quartet due to be launched in the coming months, both in India as well as global markets. Previously, we’ve seen the Atlas adventure bike testing in India and now it has been spotted again but this particular test mule has some notable differences to the Atlas duo that debuted at EICMA 2025.
- Norton Atlas spotted with 19-in front alloy wheel
- Golden USD fork seems to be non-adjustable
- Could be a lower-spec or an India-specific variant
New Norton Atlas variant spotted: what’s different?
TVS testing Norton Atlas extensively in India before market launch
When the new Norton lineup broke cover at EICMA last year, the Atlas adventure bike was shown in two variants – standard and GT. The former had cross-spoke wheels sized 19/17-in (F/R) while the latter had 17-in alloy wheels at both ends. Another crucial difference between the two is that the GT will have less suspension travel and a lower seat. However, the test mule of the Atlas seen in these pictures differs from both of the bikes shown overseas in that it is running a 19/17-in alloy wheel setup.
Another interesting point is that the design of said alloy wheels appears to be almost identical to that of the TVS Apache RTX 300. In fact, the Eurogrip dual-purpose tyres appear to be the same compound and size, at least at the front with a 110/80-19 tyre, as the RTX too.
There are other differences here too. For instance, the fork on the Atlas models shown at EICMA had a stealthy black finish. However, the fork on the Norton Atlas test mule in these pictures is finished in gold, another similarity to the RTX. The Atlas bikes shown at EICMA also had adjustable suspension but the fork on this bike appears to be non-adjustable. This test mule also misses out on the hand guards and the fog lights integrated into the fairing on either side of the big single-piece headlight, suggesting simpler equipment levels all throughout.
It is likely that what we are looking at here is a lower spec variant of the Atlas with simpler equipment. Given the new 40 percent GST that will be levied on bikes above 350cc, having a lower priced variant will be crucial to have an attractive starting price.
To recap, the Norton Atlas is a middleweight adventure bike that’s going to be powered by a 585cc, twin-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine with a now commonplace 270-degree firing order. This engine has been touted to make a peak output in the ballpark of 65-70hp, which would make it the most powerful motorcycle to be made in India upon its launch. Considering that testing appears to be in full swing and the test mule doesn’t have too many rough edges or unfinished bits, you can expect the Atlas to be launched in the coming months. Upon launch it will sit virtually in a class of its own and will be retailed by a new premium Norton dealership network that will also retail select premium TVS products.
Image source: mithundeshmuk via Instagram
