KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Most affordable entry point into KTM's RC supersport lineup
- 164cc liquid-cooled engine shared with the 160 Duke
- Premium hardware, including USD forks and dual-channel ABS
KTM's smallest supersport has finally arrived, and it's aimed squarely at riders who want sharp looks without stepping into big-bike territory. Just weeks after bringing the 160 Duke to India, the Austrian brand has given the platform a racier edge with the launch of the RC 160. Priced at Rs 1.85 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), this fully-faired motorcycle now becomes the most affordable way to enter KTM's RC lineup, sitting below the RC 200 and RC 390, and taking the fight straight to the popular entry-level sportbike segment. Let's delve into the details and discover what the RC 160 has to offer. But before moving ahead, make sure to join the 91Wheels WhatsApp community to never miss out on any automotive updates.
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KTM RC 160 Launched
KTM has expanded its Indian lineup with the launch of the all-new RC 160, a fully-faired sportbike priced at Rs 1.85 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). This latest addition brings KTM's aggressive racing-inspired design.
The RC 160 borrows heavily from the brand's existing models in terms of design and engineering, featuring a trellis frame and a styling package reminiscent of the larger RC 200. The twin-piece seat, sharp bodywork, and full LED lighting, including an LED headlamp flanked by boomerang-shaped DRLs, give it a distinctly sporty stance on the road.
The RC 160 is expected to share mechanicals with its naked sibling, the 160 Duke, including a liquid-cooled 164cc single-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed gearbox. This setup belts out 18.7 bhp and 15.5 nm of torque. Suspension duties are handled by a 37mm upside-down fork at the front and a rear monoshock, while braking hardware includes a 320mm front disc and a 230mm rear disc, supported by dual-channel ABS with a Supermoto mode. Rolling on 17-inch wheels, the RC 160 uses a 110-section front tyre and a 140-section rear tyre, identical to the 160 Duke's setup.
Priced at Rs 1.85 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), the RC 160 commands a Rs 15,000 premium over the 160 Duke. It is also priced around Rs 19,000 higher than the Yamaha R15, which remains its closest rival.
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Verdict
The KTM RC 160 makes a strong case for itself as an entry-level supersport with premium hardware and unmistakable KTM styling. While it carries a noticeable price premium over its closest rivals, it compensates with sharper design, robust cycle parts, and a proven engine platform. For riders who prioritise aggressive looks and sporty road presence over outright value, the RC 160 delivers a compelling package.
