Key highlights
- KTM RC 160 will be based on the new 160 Duke
- It is likely to be launched before the festive season
- The expected price will be around Rs 2 lakh
With the launch of the new 160 Duke, the Austrian motorcycle manufacturer KTM has also announced a new RC 160 model. It will be launched in the coming weeks, and it will replace the RC 125. Read more details about it below.
Also read: 2026 KTM 690 Enduro R and 690 SMC R unveiled
What to expect from the KTM RC 160?
KTM has recently launched the 160 Duke, which replaces the 125 Duke with a bigger engine, more performance, and a new design. A similar strategy has been prepared to replace the RC 125 sportsbike with a new RC 160. The company has announced that it will soon launch it in India.
So, what can we expect from the upcoming RC 160? First thing, it will be based on the 160 Duke, which means that it will get the new 160cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. It is a substantial upgrade from the 125cc motor, and this new engine makes 18.73 bhp of power and 15.5 Nm of torque, which will offer a major improvement in performance.
Moreover, the dimensions of the RC 160 will also witness a major upgrade as compared to the RC 125. Similarly, the design will feature an aggressive body kit with the new LED lights, a committed riding posture, exciting graphics, and dual-tone paint shade options.
KTM will equip the RC 160 with the same features as the 160 Duke. Hence, it will get the TFT console, Bluetooth connectivity, dual-channel ABS, turn-by-turn navigation, and other connected features.
Speaking of the launch timeline, we suspect that the RC 160 will be introduced before the festive season to boost sales. As far as pricing is concerned, it will be positioned around the Rs 2 lakh mark (or more). Its sole rival will be the Yamaha R15 V4.
Our say
The upcoming RC 160 will not only replace the 125cc model, but it will also position the brand firmly against the Yamaha R15, which is one of the best-selling sportsbikes in India. More details are likely to surface as we approach the festive season.
