KTM is gearing up to strengthen its presence in India’s entry-level performance motorcycle segment. Following the debut of the KTM 160 Duke at ₹1.85 lakh (ex-showroom), the Austrian manufacturer has officially confirmed that the fully faired KTM RC 160 will arrive in the coming weeks.
Positioned as a more affordable entry point into KTM’s RC series, the RC 160 will share its mechanical platform with the recently launched Duke 160, while adopting a sharper, track-focused design language tailored for sportbike enthusiasts.
KTM 160 Duke The Foundation for the RC 160
The 160 Duke marks KTM’s smallest-displacement offering in India, designed to compete directly with popular models such as the Yamaha MT-15 V2 and TVS Apache RTR 160 4V.
With an aggressive streetfighter stance, high quality hardware, and a performance-oriented powertrain, the Duke 160 has been engineered to deliver a premium riding experience at an accessible price point.
The upcoming RC 160 will retain the same core architecture but replace the naked styling with aerodynamic bodywork, clip, on handlebars, and sportier ergonomics, offering a package better suited for spirited riding and track use.
Engine and Performance
The KTM 160 Duke is powered by a 164.2 cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, SOHC engine, delivering:
- Maximum Power: 19 hp, 9,500 rpm
- Peak Torque: 15.5 Nm, 7,500 rpm
- Transmission: 6 speed gearbox with slip-and-assist clutch
This engine strikes a fine balance between responsive performance and everyday usability, making it ideal for both city commuting and occasional highway rides.
The RC 160 is expected to feature the same specifications, with potential ECU tweaks or gearing adjustments to suit its sportbike persona.
Chassis and Hardware
True to KTM’s reputation, the 160 Duke features premium underpinnings typically seen on higher-capacity motorcycles:
- Frame: Lightweight steel trellis frame for enhanced agility
- Front Suspension: WP Apex upside down forks with 138 mm travel
- Rear Suspension: WP Apex monoshock with mono linkage, 161 mm travel
- Braking System: Brembo-sourced dual channel ABS with 320 mm front disc and 230 mm rear disc
- Tyres: 17 inch alloy wheels fitted with tubeless tyres
- Lighting: Full LED setup for headlamp, tail lamp, and indicators
The RC 160 is expected to adopt the same chassis and braking components, with suspension settings fine-tuned for more aggressive handling.
Also Read : Top 200cc Bikes in India with Features & Buying Guide
Design and Features
The KTM 160 Duke is offered in three striking colour options, Electronic Orange, Atlantic Blue, and Silver Metallic Matte and carries the brand’s distinctive streetfighter DNA.
Key features include:
- 5-inch LCD digital console with smartphone connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation
- Seat height 815 mm
- Kerb weight 147 kg for nimble handling
- Fuel tank capacity 10.1 litres
In contrast, the RC 160 will adopt a fully faired design inspired by the larger RC 200 and RC 390, including:
- Aerodynamic fairing and windscreen
- Clip on handlebars for an aggressive riding stance
- Rear-set footpegs for improved cornering clearance
- Track-inspired graphics exclusive to the RC lineup
Competitive Landscape
The KTM 160 Duke currently competes with:
- Yamaha MT-15 V2
- TVS Apache RTR 160 4V
- Bajaj Pulsar N160
The RC 160 will enter the faired motorcycle space, going head to head with:
- Yamaha R15 V4
- Suzuki Gixxer SF 150
While these rivals enjoy established popularity, KTM’s premium hardware, distinct styling, and performance-oriented tuning will position the RC 160 as a compelling alternative.
Key Highlights
- Launch Timeline: RC 160 to debut within weeks after the 160 Duke’s introduction.
- Base Price: 160 Duke priced at ₹1.85 lakh (ex-showroom); RC 160 expected to command a small premium.
- Performance: 164.2 cc, 19 hp engine with 6-speed gearbox and slipper clutch.
- Equipment: WP suspension, Brembo brakes, dual-channel ABS, LED lighting.
- Technology: 5 inch TFT console with smartphone connectivity and navigation.
- Target Audience: Young riders seeking a stylish, premium, and performance focused sportbike.
Conclusion
The KTM RC 160 is set to bring a fresh wave of excitement to India’s affordable sportbike market. Built on the robust foundation of the 160 Duke, it promises a perfect blend of KTM’s racing DNA, high-quality hardware, and aggressive styling without straying into high-price territory.
For aspiring riders, the RC 160 will offer an accessible yet thrilling entry into the KTM RC family, competing directly with some of the most popular faired motorcycles in the 150, 160 cc segment. With its launch just around the corner, anticipation among enthusiasts is at an all-time high.
Also Read: 2025 KTM 390 Adventure X Debuts with Cruise Control at ₹3.03L
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