Bajaj, which manufactures and oversees KTM’s operations in India, is preparing to launch the KTM 160 Duke and KTM RC 160. These motorcycles are aimed at competing with Yamaha’s stronghold in the 150cc-160cc segment, particularly against the Yamaha R15 V4 and Yamaha MT 15. With this move, KTM seeks to establish a stronger presence in the entry-level performance motorcycle market by introducing bikes that offer a balance between affordability and power. The upcoming 160cc models will serve as a middle ground between the smaller 125cc variants and the more aggressive 200cc offerings.
Both the KTM 160 Duke and KTM RC 160 will be based on the existing 200 Duke and RC 200, respectively. The new 160cc engine is expected to be a downsized version of the 200cc motor, inheriting KTM’s high-revving character and sporty performance. Currently, KTM’s 125cc engine produces 14.5PS of power and 12Nm of torque, while the upcoming 160cc powertrain is anticipated to generate around 18-20PS of power and 15-17Nm of Torque. This would place it in direct competition with Yamaha’s R15 V4 and MT 15, both of which are known for their refined yet powerful liquid-cooled engines. The new KTM models will also create a significant performance gap from the 200cc variants, ensuring they do not cannibalize sales within KTM’s own lineup.
Although specific details about these motorcycles are still scarce, they are expected to share their design elements and feature sets with the current 125cc models. However, the primary differences will be under the hood, where KTM is likely to refine the engine for better efficiency and performance. The introduction of a 160cc engine will not only increase power and torque but also ensure that KTM remains competitive in a segment where Yamaha has consistently dominated. It remains to be seen whether KTM will tune the engine aggressively enough to outperform its Japanese rivals, but the brand’s racing DNA suggests that performance will be a key focus.
KTM is expected to launch the RC 160 and the 160 Duke around June or July 2025, aligning their release with the pre-festive season. This strategic timing will allow the brand to begin deliveries just in time for the major festive shopping season in August, when demand for new motorcycles is typically high. While pricing details are yet to be revealed, it is likely that these new models will come at a slight premium over their 125cc siblings, potentially making Yamaha’s offerings slightly more affordable in comparison. However, KTM’s aggressive styling and higher power output could justify the marginal price difference.
In terms of mechanical underpinnings, the new KTM 160 Duke and KTM RC 160 are expected to retain most of the components from the 200cc models. This includes KTM’s signature trellis frame with a bolt-on subframe, ensuring a lightweight and rigid chassis for sharp handling. Suspension duties will be handled by a USD fork at the front and a monoshock at the rear, both of which should provide a sportier ride compared to conventional setups. The bikes will also come equipped with a cast-aluminium swingarm, radial brake calipers for enhanced stopping power, and 17-inch alloy wheels at both ends for stability and grip.
Feature-wise, KTM is likely to continue using an LCD instrument cluster similar to that seen on the current 125cc and 200cc models. Additionally, the new 160cc motorcycles might receive an LED headlight setup akin to the 200 Duke and RC 200, enhancing both aesthetics and visibility. Safety features like dual-channel ABS are also expected to be standard, ensuring that these bikes offer a good balance of performance and rider confidence. Overall, the KTM 160 Duke and RC 160 are shaping up to be strong contenders in the 160cc segment, offering a compelling mix of aggressive styling, race-inspired performance, and premium hardware.
