KTM RC 160 Revealed Ahead of India Launch

KTM’s upcoming RC 160 has surfaced online through leaked images, revealing what will soon become the brand’s most affordable fully-faired motorcycle. 

Expected to launch in India in the coming weeks, the RC 160 is positioned as a direct rival to the Yamaha R15 and will serve as the entry point into KTM’s RC lineup.

Visually, the RC 160 closely follows the design language of the RC 200. The bike features KTM’s sharp, race-inspired fairing, a centrally mounted LED headlamp with integrated DRLs, and a compact windscreen. The stepped split-seat layout, narrow tail section, and aggressive body lines further reinforce its sportbike character. 

The RC 160 also gets a rear tyre hugger, a shorter number-plate bracket, and a pillion grab rail—features not seen on the RC 200. 

Powering the RC 160 is the same engine used on the 160 Duke. This 164.2cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled motor is derived from the 200 Duke’s platform and produces 19 hp at 9,500 rpm and 15.5 Nm of torque at 7,500 rpm. The engine is paired with a six-speed gearbox. The exhaust layout resembles that of the 160 Duke as well, though finished in a blacked-out theme for a sportier appearance.

Suspension duties are handled by an upside-down front fork and a rear monoshock, while braking is managed by disc brakes at both ends with dual-channel ABS as standard.

With performance figures now comparable to the Yamaha R15, the RC 160 addresses a key shortcoming of the earlier RC 125, which struggled to match its rivals on outright performance. This makes the RC 160 a more competitive and appealing option for buyers seeking an accessible yet performance-focused sportbike.