Although the introduction of such bikes do not translate into large volumes due to their high price tags (enough for buying four compact cars) the launch is aimed at pushing and enhancing the company's brand image in the competitive domestic two-wheeler market which is dominated by Hero Honda and Bajaj Auto.

Honda's other two Japanese counterparts —Suzuki and Yamaha — have also introduced costly motorcycles in the country recently, which are also garnering a robust response. Both Yamaha, which sells three superbikes, and Suzuki, which sells two superbikes currently, are interested in having more such products.

The companies are also desperately seeking to make inroads into the market with performance and commuter motorcycles and gearless scooters. The launch of superbikes have helped both companies in improving the overall brand image while reporting impressive double0digit growth in sales every month.

In addition, iconic companies like Italian bike maker Ducati and US-based Harley Davidson have also witnessed an equally robust demand from the local market.

Other companies are also lining up to make a foray in India such as Austria-based KTM Power Sports AG and Japan-based Kawasaki. Both companies are expected to launch their range by the end of this year or by the first half of next year.

The superbike market here is small in size compared to some of the international markets such as the US, UK, Germany, China and Japan. But spiralling aspiration of the buying class, aided by an equally robust buying power, has led companies to believe that India is one of the fastest growing markets for such lifestyle products.

The market size for superbikes in 2008 in India, when Yamaha launched its products, stood at 180 units per annum. However, it quickly rose to 500 units last year. Experts say that with growing booking numbers, the market could well touch 1,000 units over the next couple of years.