KTM has just introduced the RC 160 in the Indian market. I’ve been looking forward to this bike ever since they began teasing it earlier this year, and I couldn’t be happier. At an ex-showroom price of Rs 1.85 lakh, the RC 160 is now the least expensive fully faired KTM currently available in India. The RC 160 fills the gap between the 160 Duke and the RC 200, and while it may seem as though KTM is simply adding another bike to an already crowded portfolio, let’s take a look at how it stacks up.
What You’re Actually Getting
In terms of what you’re actually receiving with the RC 160, it features the same engine as the 160 Duke, which is a 164.2cc liquid-cooled single cylinder SOHC engine. This engine produces 19hp at 9,500rpm and 15.5Nm of torque at 7,500rpm. It has a maximum rev limit of 10,200rpm and is coupled to a 6-speed gearbox that now has an assist-and-slipper clutch (finally!) and comes with dual-channel ABS with Supermoto mode.
What is the top speed of the KTM? 118km/h as stated by KTM.
Let me tell you, I know that doesn’t seem too exciting but factored in is the low weight of only 155kg which makes it much easier to handle than many bikes at this top speed. For anyone coming from a commuter or buying their first real sportbike, these numbers equate to a fun motorcycle to ride without being completely scary.
The Design Language (Because We All Know That’s What Matters)
KTM has clearly demonstrated that they take design seriously with all new RC 160s; this model continues the aggressive styling of the RC200s and RC390s. There is a full fairing placed on top of KTM’s unique trellis frame and features include LED lighting, which includes boomerang-shaped LED daytime running lights as well.
The styling of the bike definitely has an appearance of being “a track bike”; however, in reality, many users might just use this motorcycle because it is stylish, and we generally see them at coffee shops.
The fuel tank capacity is 13.75 litres but seems small for someone who may take longer rides with this bike as the top-of-the-line model offers navigation on the dashboard console in the centre. The next best RC160 variant is often offered with a liquid crystal display rather than the full colour TFT display that is offered in the RC160 model. For an extra cost of Rs. 6000, it seems you are actually receiving a downgrade in your display system.
Hardware That Actually Makes Sense
KTM nailed the RC 160’s suspension components with their 37mm upside-down forks, as well as monoshock on the back. The front brake is a 320mm disc and at the rear, a 230mm disc. Both brakes feature dual-channel ABS. The wheels are cast aluminium alloys and include tubeless tyres, sized 110/70 for the front and 140/60 for the rear.
I had a chance to test ride my friend’s Duke 160 a while back when I was visiting Lonavala. I was surprised at how well the suspension performed compared to other entry-level products I’ve ridden previously. If the RC 160 uses the same suspension components (and I’m sure it does), you won’t be disappointed in terms of sporty handling for an entry-level price compared to the RC 200.
The R15 Elephant in the Room
It should go without saying that this motorcycle was designed to compete directly with the Yamaha R15. In terms of specifications, the RC 160 does provide a small bump over the R15 in terms of power; on top of that, it displays the aggressive styling DNA associated with the KTM brand, and the associated appeal of the colour orange. But the Yamaha R15 has been on the market long enough to develop a significant aftermarket support community, and its fuel economy and smoothness outpaces the KTM RC 160.
Now, if I had to choose between the two, I am still unsure myself!
Should You Actually Buy One?
If you’re entering the sportbike realm for the first time or planning to upgrade to a supersport (e.g., Pulsar or Apache) motorcycle, then the RC160 could be the motorcycle for you. Priced at Rs 6,000 over the Duke 160 TFT variant, this motorcycle comes equipped with a full fairing and more performance-oriented ergonomics. This is something that some riders desire.
However, if you can stretch your budget just slightly, the RC200 offers significantly more power. If you’re looking for more refinement and reliability, then the R15 would be a smart choice near the same price point.
The RC160 is available for sale through KTM dealerships in India, so if you’re interested, take some time to see how it feels. Try the ergonomics and see if an aggressive riding position suits your commuting needs (which is what most people are likely to use it for).
Would I purchase an RC160? Maybe; but I can’t tell you until I’ve had the chance to test ride it.
