KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- KTM RC 160 spied on test ahead of launch
- Sheds complete camouflage and reveals design structure
- Will borrow the same 164cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine from the new 160 Duke
KTM appears to be gearing up for a new entry point into its fully-faired lineup, as the KTM RC 160 has been spotted testing for the first time in India. Positioned below the RC 200, the upcoming model is expected to replace the RC 125 and serve as KTM's most affordable faired motorcycle in the country. The leaked test mule offers a close look at design details, component sharing with the 160 Duke, and where it might stand in the 150-160cc performance segment. Read on to find out more details on the same, 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: First Spy Shots Reveal Aggressive RC DNA
The prototype sports the familiar aggressive RC silhouette with sharp bodywork, angular fairing panels, and a low, track-oriented stance. Though covered in camouflage, the design language of the KTM RC 160 is clearly inspired by the RC 200, suggesting the bike will retain KTM's signature supersport identity rather than adopting a commuter-friendly form like some rivals. The test mule also appears to be running a new orange-black paint theme, true to KTM's trademark styling, along with revised panels and a sculpted fuel tank.
The RC 160 is built on the same new-generation platform as the 160 Duke, sharing major components such as the trellis frame with a bolt-on subframe, 17-inch alloy wheels, upside-down front forks, a rear monoshock, and the familiar LCD display from its naked sibling. However, unlike the Duke's upright stance, the RC 160 adopts a much sharper and more committed riding posture with clip-on handlebars and rear-set footpegs, signalling a more track-oriented character compared to previous entry-level RC models.
In terms of equipment, the RC 160 is expected to pack a feature set similar to the new-gen Duke lineup, likely including an LED headlamp setup inspired by the RC 200, a 5-inch Bluetooth-enabled digital LCD cluster, dual-channel ABS, split seats, and sporty rear grab rails. KTM may also offer a bi-directional quickshifter to directly compete with the Yamaha R15, further strengthening its appeal for riders seeking an affordable track-focused machine.
Engine & Performance Expectations
KTM is yet to officially reveal performance figures, but the RC 160 is expected to borrow the same 164cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine from the new 160 Duke, producing roughly 19PS and 15.5Nm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox and potentially a slipper clutch. With these numbers, the RC 160 is positioned to go head-to-head with established rivals like the Yamaha R15 V4, Hero Karizma XMR, and Suzuki Gixxer SF, offering a similar balance of performance and efficiency.
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Considering the 160 Duke currently starts at Rs 1.70 lakh (ex-showroom), the RC 160 is expected to be priced in the Rs 1.78- Rs 1.88 lakh range, positioning it as a more affordable entry point into KTM's fully-faired lineup. With the test mule already looking close to production-spec, an early 2026 launch window appears most likely.
Verdict
The RC 160 is shaping up to be a key addition to KTM's lineup, offering the brand's trademark aggression and performance in a more accessible package. With more power than the outgoing RC 125 and sportier intent than most 160cc rivals, it could become a top pick for first-time sportbike buyers who want track-inspired performance without jumping to higher segments. If KTM nails the pricing and retains Duke-level equipment, the RC 160 could be the new motorcycle to beat in the sub-200cc supersport category.
