KTM is revving up to transform the Indian entry-performance bike market with two fresh additions that promise to raise the bar — the KTM 160 Duke and KTM RC 160. These bikes are not just upgrades; they’re game-changers that bring KTM’s racing DNA, cutting-edge technology, and striking design into a more accessible displacement category. Whether you’re a city rider or a weekend warrior, the 160 Duke and RC 160 are built to thrill.
Slated to replace the outgoing 125 Duke and RC 125, these bikes have been engineered specifically for Indian riders who demand more performance, sharper design, and premium tech — all without breaching the 200cc price bracket.
Overview & Launch Timeline
KTM is putting the 125cc era behind — and gearing up to unleash the all-new 160cc Duke and RC, built to dominate India’s performance bike scene like never before.
-
KTM 160 Duke: Expected to launch around July–August 2025
-
KTM RC 160: Likely to follow in October 2025
These launches mark KTM’s most strategic move yet in India, directly challenging the dominance of the Yamaha R15 and MT-15.
Design & Chassis
Both the Duke 160 and RC 160 borrow heavily from KTM’s updated 200cc chassis architecture, ensuring that ride quality, handling, and stability are on par with higher-displacement machines.
Shared Hardware Highlights:
-
Trellis frame with bolt-on rear subframe
-
43 mm WP USD forks (upside-down)
-
Adjustable monoshock rear suspension
-
17-inch alloy wheels
-
Lightweight cast alloy swingarm
The RC 160 will sport track-ready ergonomics, aerodynamic fairing, and an aggressive riding posture, while the Duke 160 will offer an upright, city-friendly naked streetfighter stance.
Features & Tech
Despite their segment, both bikes will boast premium features usually found in higher-end KTMs:
-
Full LED lighting package (headlight, tail, indicators)
-
LCD instrument console (likely the same as 200 Duke)
-
Dual-channel ABS (standard)
-
Slipper clutch
-
Side-stand engine cut-off
-
Stylish tank shrouds & rear-set footpegs
KTM is also reportedly working with TVS Eurogrip for Protorq tyres to deliver better road and track performance.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the 160 twins will be an all-new 160cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine, likely inspired by the 200cc mill but tuned for better mid-range torque and daily usability.
Expected Output:
-
Power: ~19–20 bhp
-
Torque: ~14–15 Nm
-
Transmission: 6-speed gearbox with slipper clutch
-
Top Speed: Estimated 125–130 km/h
This means the 160s will comfortably outgun the outgoing 125cc models (14.5 bhp) and even slightly outperform rivals like the Yamaha R15 V4 (18.4 bhp) and MT-15.
Price Estimate & Variants
Here’s what we know about the pricing strategy for India:
| Model | Expected Launch | Estimated Price (Ex-Showroom) |
|---|---|---|
| KTM 160 Duke | July–August 2025 | ₹1.70–₹1.85 lakh |
| KTM RC 160 | October 2025 | ₹1.80–₹1.95 lakh |
Expect introductory pricing and possible variant differentiation based on color schemes or minor feature tweaks.
Top Reasons to Buy the KTM 160 Duke & KTM RC 160
1. More Power, Same Premium Feel — Under 200cc
With an estimated 19–20 bhp, the new 160s offer more performance than their 125cc predecessors and outshine many rivals in the 150–160cc segment, all while maintaining affordable insurance and registration costs.
2. Premium Hardware That Rivals Higher Segments
From WP USD forks to slipper clutch and dual-channel ABS, KTM is offering kit that’s usually found in bikes priced well above ₹2 lakh.
3. Aggressive, Modern KTM Styling
Whether you prefer the sharp fairing of the RC 160 or the street-naked appeal of the 160 Duke, both bikes feature the same aggressive KTM design language seen on the 200 and 390 siblings — compact, muscular, and instantly recognizable.
4. Excellent Handling with Proven Chassis
Thanks to the trellis frame and lightweight components, both bikes are expected to be incredibly nimble, offering confidence-inspiring handling for both city and twisty road riding.
5. Perfect Balance for Daily Riders & Weekend Thrill Seekers
With a 6-speed gearbox, relaxed torque curve, and estimated fuel efficiency of 40–45 km/l, these bikes offer the right mix of practicality for everyday use and excitement for weekend rides.
6. Competitive Pricing in a Crowded Segment
With prices expected to start at ₹1.70 lakh for the Duke and ₹1.80 lakh for the RC, KTM is clearly aiming to offer top-shelf features at mid-segment pricing, making them great value propositions.
7. Made in India, For India
These models have been designed and tuned specifically for Indian riders, taking into account urban traffic, highway cruising, and track-inspired thrills — all with lower ownership costs.
Target Rivals :
-
Yamaha R15 V4
-
Yamaha MT-15 V2
-
Bajaj Pulsar N160 & NS160
What gives KTM an edge is its combination of premium cycle parts, sharp styling, and track-proven dynamics — even in a sub-200cc format.
Final Take: KTM’s 160 Series is a Game-Changer
With the launch of the KTM 160 Duke and KTM RC 160, the Austrian brand is redefining what entry-performance should feel like in India. Riders looking for more thrill than what a 125cc bike can offer, but without the price and insurance hike of a 200cc, will find a perfect middle ground in these bikes.
They bring together the racing DNA of KTM, premium hardware, and track-inspired aesthetics — wrapped in a package that’s both practical and exhilarating for Indian roads.