It recently came to light that KTM is reportedly planning to phase out its 125cc range comprising the RC 125 and Duke 125. The 125cc range is the entry point to the KTM lineup, however, the 125cc audience largely looks for a commuter for which the KTM duos are priced extraordinarily high. This has had an effect on the sales of 125cc bikes.
A separate report claims that the KTM 125cc range will be replaced by new 160cc models. The Austrian bikemaker is planning to introduce two new 160cc motorcycles in the existing partnership Bajaj Auto specially designed for the Indian market. The reason behind this is believed to be the dominance of Yamaha in this space.
KTM 160cc models: Expected prices
Yamaha offers two very strong products in the 150-160cc performance segment— the R15 sports bike and the MT 15 naked street fighter. Both these models cumulatively account for 20,000 units on average per month. Given that the current KTM 125 Duke and RC 125 are priced at Rs 1.81 lakh and Rs1.92 lakh (both ex-showroom), respectively, the upcoming 160cc models are likely to be priced in a similar range or slightly higher.
On the other hand, Yamaha offers the R15 and the MT15 at Rs 1.83—2.10 lakh and Rs 1.69—1.74 lakh (both ex-showroom), respectively. It is unlikely that the upcoming KTM 160cc models will be able to undercut this price, but at least they will offer better value for money than the outgoing 125cc bikes.
KTM 160cc models: Expected design & specs
The report mentions that the upcoming 160cc models from KTM will be based on the brand’s 200cc platform which currently comprises the RC200 and the Duke 200. This means the 160cc Duke will retain the same design as the second-gen Duke 200 design, while the RC 160 will adopt the current RC design philosophy seen on the RC 200 and RC 390.
The upcoming KTM 160cc duo will feature a familiar trellis frame chassis, paired with 43mm USD forks and a monoshock rear suspension. Expect a similar level of equipment as the larger 200cc siblings, including features like dual-channel ABS and an LCD instrument cluster.
As for powertrain, The new 160cc engine will be derived from the 200 Duke’s motor and is expected to produce around 19-20 bhp, a significant upgrade from the current 125cc engine, which delivers 14.5 bhp. This power output will give KTM an edge over Yamaha’s 18.4 bhp offering while staying well below the 200cc KTM models, which continue to produce 25hp and will remain on sale.
KTM 160cc models: Expected launch
The report mentions that KTM might introduce the new 160cc models sometime in mid-2025, just before the festive season kicks in. Both models are likely to be launched simultaneously, or the Duke 160 may precede the RC 200 by a few weeks. Production will most likely be carried out at Bajaj Auto’s Chakan-based facility.
