KTM RC 160 Launched in India: Price, Engine, Features and Rivals

KTM India has expanded its supersport motorcycle lineup with the launch of the KTM RC 160 in the Indian market. Positioned below the RC 200, the new RC 160 replaces the discontinued RC 125 and aims to offer a more affordable entry point into KTM’s fully-faired sportbike range.

KTM RC 160 Launch and Positioning

The KTM RC 160 has been launched in India at a starting price of ₹1.85 lakh (ex-showroom). It marks KTM’s entry into the 160cc supersport motorcycle segment and sits just below the RC 200 in the brand’s lineup.

The RC 160 replaces the RC 125, which has already been discontinued. Alongside this, KTM has also phased out the 125 Duke, replacing it with the newly introduced 160 Duke.

KTM RC 160 Design and Styling

The KTM RC 160 follows the design philosophy of the 160 Duke while drawing heavy inspiration from the RC 200. The motorcycle features:

• LED headlamp with Daytime Running Lights similar to the RC 200

• Same windscreen design as the RC 200

• Polygonal rear-view mirrors

• Split-seat layout

• Similar fuel tank shape and fairing graphics

The colour scheme and graphics on the fairing closely resemble those of the RC 200, giving the RC 160 a premium and aggressive supersport appearance.

KTM RC 160 Engine and Performance

The key visual difference is the RC 160 badge on the side fairing, along with KTM’s signature “Ready to Race” graphics, which enhance its sporty appeal.

Powering the KTM RC 160 is the same 164cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine used in the 160 Duke. Engine output figures include:

• 19 hp at 9,500 rpm

• 15.5 Nm of peak torque at 7,500 rpm

According to KTM, this engine delivers the highest output in its category and offers an impressive power-to-weight ratio. Power is sent to the rear wheel via a 6-speed gearbox, and the company claims a top speed of 118 kmph.

KTM RC 160 Features and Hardware

The engine is housed in a trellis frame, supported by:

• 37mm inverted front forks

• Rear monoshock suspension

Braking duties are handled by:

• 320mm front disc brake

• 230mm rear disc brake

• Dual-channel ABS for enhanced safety

Other notable features include:

• 17-inch alloy wheels

• LCD instrument cluster with connectivity and navigation support

• Full LED lighting setup

• Assist and slipper clutch

KTM RC 160 Price and Rivals

In the Indian market, the KTM RC 160 directly competes with the Yamaha R15, which is currently priced from ₹1.66 lakh (ex-showroom). The Yamaha R15 recently received a ₹5,000 price cut, bringing its earlier price of ₹1.71 lakh down to the current level.