KTM has announced the upcoming RC 160, a new entry-level fully-faired sportbike designed specifically for the Indian market. Building on the success of the recently launched KTM 160 Duke, the RC 160 promises to deliver thrilling performance in the hotly contested 150-160cc segment. With its aggressive styling, powerful engine, and modern features, this bike is poised to challenge rivals like the Yamaha R15 V4 and give young riders an affordable taste of KTM’s “Ready to Race” DNA.
Engine and Performance: Most Powerful in Its Class
The KTM RC 160 is powered by a brand-new 164.2cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, SOHC engine – a detuned version of the unit found in the RC 200. It produces 18.74 bhp at 9,500 rpm and 15.5 Nm of torque at 7,500 rpm, making it the most powerful 160cc motorcycle in India. Paired with a 6-speed gearbox and a standard quickshifter for seamless up and downshifts, the RC 160 offers explosive acceleration and high-revving excitement that outpaces the Yamaha R15 V4’s 18.4 bhp from its 155cc mill.
This India-exclusive powertrain ensures better low-end grunt for city traffic while delivering track-ready performance on open roads. Expect mileage around 40-45 kmpl, balancing fun and efficiency for daily commutes.
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Features and Technology: Premium Kit at Entry Level
The RC 160 borrows heavily from its bigger siblings, the RC 200 and RC 390, for a premium feel:
- 5-inch TFT Display: Full-color screen with Bluetooth connectivity via KTM Connect app for calls, music, turn-by-turn navigation, and ride stats.
- LED Lighting: Full LED setup for headlamp, taillight, and indicators.
- Rider Aids: Dual-channel ABS, supermoto mode for rear-wheel fun, and optional traction control.
- Quickshifter: Bi-directional for clutchless shifts – a segment-first at this price point.
- Ergonomics: Clip-on handlebars, rear-set footpegs, and a committed riding posture for sporty handling, with adjustable levers for comfort.
Suspension duties are handled by WP upside-down forks up front and a monoshock at the rear, with ByBre brakes (320mm front disc, 230mm rear) ensuring confident stopping power. It rolls on 17-inch alloys with grippy tyres for sharp cornering.
Design and Styling: Pure Race Inspiration
The RC 160 sports KTM’s signature supersport look – sharp full fairing, aggressive front fascia with split LED headlamps, and MotoGP-inspired graphics. Available in vibrant colours like Electronic Orange and new GP editions, it screams track weapon while being street-legal. The lightweight trellis frame keeps kerb weight low (around 150-155 kg), aiding agility in traffic or on twisty roads.
Compared to the Yamaha R15 V4’s sleek aero design or Suzuki Gixxer SF’s more commuter-friendly fairing, the RC 160 stands out with its raw, intimidating stance – perfect for riders who want to turn heads.
Pricing and Availability in India
The KTM RC 160 is expected to be priced around ₹1.95 lakh to ₹2 lakh (ex-showroom), making it competitively positioned against the Yamaha R15 V4 (₹1.83-1.98 lakh) and slightly above the Suzuki Gixxer SF (₹1.38-1.46 lakh). On-road prices in major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore could touch ₹2.2-2.3 lakh.
Launch is imminent, with bookings likely opening in late 2025 and deliveries starting shortly after. As an India-specific model developed with Bajaj Auto, it replaces the discontinued RC 125 and aims to capture festive season sales. Check your nearest KTM dealership for test rides – this could be the R15 killer we’ve been waiting for!
The KTM RC 160 brings more power, better features, and pure adrenaline to the entry-level sportbike segment. If you’re a young rider craving performance without breaking the bank, this orange rocket is set to dominate Indian roads. Watch out, Yamaha – KTM is coming for the crown!
