KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- KTM RC 160 design leaked ahead of its India launch, revealing full-faired styling inspired by the RC 200
- Shares the 164cc liquid-cooled engine with the KTM 160 Duke, producing class-leading output
- Expected to rival the Yamaha R15 as KTMs new entry-level supersport motorcycle
KTM appears to be gearing up to expand its RC lineup in India, and this time, it's with a more accessible yet performance-focused offering. Design images of the upcoming KTM RC 160 have surfaced online ahead of its official launch, giving us a clear look at what will soon become the brand's most affordable fully-faired motorcycle. Positioned as the sportbike sibling of the recently launched 160 Duke, the RC 160 is expected to take the fight directly to the Yamaha R15 in the entry-level supersport segment. Read on to find out more details, but before that, make sure to join the 91wheels WhatsApp Community, specifically curated for petrolheads like us to keep up with the latest news and automotive updates.
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KTM RC 160 Familiar RC Styling With A Scaled-Down Formula
At first glance, the KTM RC 160 looks unmistakably like a member of the RC family. The leaked images reveal a design that closely mirrors the RC 200, featuring the same sharp full fairing, aggressive stance, and race-inspired proportions. The LED headlamp and DRL layout appears to be carried over almost unchanged, topped by a compact windscreen that enhances its sporty character. Design elements such as polygonal mirrors, split seats, sculpted fuel tank extensions, and bold fairing graphics further reinforce the RC lineage. The motorcycle seen in the leak is finished in a black-and-orange colour scheme, similar to higher-capacity RC models, though KTM is likely to introduce additional colour options at launch to differentiate the RC 160 from the Duke range.
Mechanically, the RC 160 is expected to share most of its underpinnings with the 160 Duke. This includes a lightweight trellis frame, WP Apex USD front forks, and a rear monoshock tuned for sporty riding. Braking duties are likely to be handled by a 320 mm front disc and a 230 mm rear disc, supported by dual-channel ABS. The leaked images also suggest a few subtle differences from the RC 200, such as a revised rear tyre hugger and a pillion grab rail, making it slightly more practical for everyday use without diluting its sportbike intent.
Engine & Performance: Borrowed From The 160 Duke
Powering the KTM RC 160 will be the same engine that debuted on the 160 Duke. This 164cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled motor is derived from KTM's larger 200cc platform and is among the most powerful in its class. It produces 19 hp at 9,500 rpm and 15.5 Nm of torque at 7,500 rpm, paired with a six-speed gearbox. These figures give the RC 160 a clear performance edge over several rivals, including the Yamaha R15, and address one of the biggest limitations of the earlier RC 125, which struggled to match competitors on outright performance.
Once launched, the KTM RC 160 will serve as the new entry point into KTM's RC range, replacing the discontinued RC 125 in spirit. With stronger performance, premium hardware, and aggressive styling, it is clearly aimed at riders who want a proper faired motorcycle without stepping into higher price brackets. Pricing is expected to sit slightly above the 160 Duke, which currently starts at around Rs. 1.71 lakh (ex-showroom).
Verdict
The leaked design of the KTM RC 160 suggests that KTM has taken a smart, no-nonsense approach, retain the visual drama of the RC series, pair it with a strong and proven engine, and price it competitively. If KTM manages to strike the right balance between performance, pricing, and everyday usability, the RC 160 could finally give entry-level sportbike buyers a compelling alternative to the long-dominant Yamaha R15. With its launch expected in the coming months, the smallest RC yet could turn out to be one of KTM's most important motorcycles for the Indian market.
