KTM India Launches RC 160 Supersport Motorcycle
KTM India has officially launched the new KTM RC 160 motorcycle targeting the supersport segment within the 150cc–160cc class. The model is positioned above the base and top-tier variants of the 160 Duke, offering a more aggressive styling and enhanced riding experience, despite sharing the same engine platform.
Key Specifications
- The RC 160 is powered by a 164.2cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled SOHC 4V engine, identical to that of the 160 Duke.
- It delivers a peak power output of 19 PS and a peak torque of 15.5 Nm.
- The motorcycle features a 6-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch, designed to handle high-performance riding conditions.
- Braking is provided by a 320 mm front disc and a 230 mm rear disc, equipped with dual-channel ABS in both Road and Supermoto modes.
- The motorcycle comes with 110-section front and 140-section rear tyres, offering a wider contact patch for improved grip and stability.
- It features a standard LCD cluster with Bluetooth and navigation support. KTM has not included a TFT display, though the company has hinted at a potential future variant with a TFT screen.
Launch Pricing and Market Positioning
The RC 160 is priced at Rs 1.85 lakh (ex-showroom), marking a significant increase over its closest competitors.
- It is Rs 14,500 more expensive than the base 160 Duke.
- It costs Rs 6,000 more than the top-tier 160 Duke variant with a TFT cluster.
- Compared to the last-generation Yamaha R15 S, the RC 160 is Rs 34,300 pricier.
- It is Rs 18,800 more expensive than the base R15 V4 model.
- It is Rs 3,900 more costly than the R15 M variant, which includes a TFT screen and bi-directional quickshifter.
- It is priced just Rs 856 above the Hero MotoCorp Karizma XMR 210, which offers superior performance with 25.5 PS and 20.4 Nm of torque.
The pricing strategy positions the RC 160 as a premium supersport option, emphasizing styling, ride dynamics, and feature set over raw power. While the engine output is comparable to that of the 160 Duke, the RC 160’s design elements—such as clip-on handlebars, rear-set footpegs, USD front forks, and premium switchgear—enhance its sporty appeal and rider engagement.
Competitive Landscape
The KTM RC 160 directly competes with the Yamaha R15 in the supersport segment, particularly among riders seeking a balance between performance, handling, and aesthetics. However, the higher price point places it in a more premium tier than the R15 variants.
Despite sharing the same engine, the RC 160 offers a more aggressive and modern aesthetic, appealing to riders who prioritize visual performance and dynamic handling. The inclusion of dual-channel ABS and advanced braking systems further strengthens its safety credentials.
While the Hero Karizma XMR 210 outperforms the RC 160 in terms of power (25.5 PS vs 19 PS) and torque (20.4 Nm vs 15.5 Nm), it is only slightly more expensive, suggesting that KTM has successfully carved out a niche based on design, build quality, and riding dynamics rather than raw horsepower.
Future Outlook
Although the current RC 160 does not feature a TFT cluster, the absence of such a screen has been noted by industry observers. A journalist’s observation suggests that KTM may introduce a TFT-enabled variant in the near future to better compete with models like the R15 M or Karizma XMR.
For now, the RC 160 stands as a compelling offering in India’s growing supersport segment, combining accessible power delivery with a refined, performance-oriented design. It signals KTM’s continued focus on premium positioning and rider-centric features in the Indian market.
