KTM launches RC 160 as entry-level supersport with Duke-shared platform
KTM has expanded its supersport line-up in India with the launch of the new RC 160, priced at Rs. 1.85 lakhs (ex-showroom). Positioned below the RC 200 and RC 390, the model now serves as the most accessible fully-faired KTM offering in the country.
The RC 160 follows the introduction of the 160 Duke, and the two motorcycles share several components including their powertrain and underpinnings. Powering the RC 160 is a 164.2cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine producing 19 HP at 9500 RPM and 15.5 Nm at 7500 RPM. The motor is paired with a 6-speed gearbox equipped with an assist-and-slipper clutch. KTM claims a top speed of 118 km/hr.
Built on the same platform as the 160 Duke, the RC 160 uses a 37 mm upside-down front fork and a rear monoshock, along with 17-inch wheels running on 110-section front and 140-section rear tyres. Braking hardware consists of a 320 mm front disc and a 230 mm rear disc, supported by dual-channel ABS with a Supermoto mode for more dynamic rear-wheel control. The manufacturer has not yet disclosed the kerb weight, though the additional bodywork suggests a marginal increase over the Duke’s 147 kg figure.
On the feature front, the RC 160 comes equipped with full-LED lighting – including the headlamp, indicators and tail-lamp and an LCD instrumentation display. Unlike the latest 160 Duke, the RC 160 does not currently offer a TFT dashboard option.
At its introductory price, the RC 160 sits above the 160 Duke by around Rs. 15,000 and directly targets rivals such as the Yamaha R15, which retails at approximately Rs. 1.66 lakhs (ex-showroom).
