BREAKING: KTM RC 160 Launched, Yamaha R15’s Biggest Rival Is Here!

  • Published January 8, 2026
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Makes more power than the R15, and unlike the RC125, this one has way more sensible pricing. We likey!

KTM RC 160 Launched

Quick Reads: 

  • Shares it components with the 160 Duke

  • Looks similar to the bigger RC 200

KTM has officially expanded its RC lineup in India with the launch of the RC 160 at a price tag of Rs 1,85,000 (ex-showroom, Delhi). This makes it the most affordable fully faired KTM motorcycle in the country yet. Positioned below the KTM RC 200, the new RC 160 effectively replaces the RC 125 and is aimed squarely at riders looking for a supersport from the orange manufacturer without stretching their budgets too far.

What’s New With The KTM RC 160?

RC 160

The KTM RC 160 makes its debut wearing a familiar and unmistakably KTM orange paint scheme, instantly giving it strong visual links to its larger RC siblings. The sharp, aggressive fairing design remains intact, borrowing heavily from the RC 200’s track-inspired silhouette. Up front, the bike gets the same LED headlight setup as the RC 200, while the side and tail sections continue with KTM’s sharp-edged, aerodynamic styling.

Under the skin, the RC 160 shares most of its cycle parts with the KTM 160 Duke. It is built around a trellis frame with a bolt-on subframe, paired with a USD fork and a monoshock. The cast aluminium swingarm and 17-inch alloy wheels further reinforce its sporty intent. The bike also uses the same digital instrument console seen on the 160 Duke, offering a clean and functional layout.

Engine And Performance

2026 KTM RC 160

Powering the RC 160 is KTM’s new 164cc single-cylinder engine, borrowed directly from the 160 Duke. It produces 19PS and 15.5Nm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox. Compared to the older RC 125, this is a significant step up in performance, and should make the RC 160 far more engaging both on the road and on a racetrack.

How It Stacks Up Against The Yamaha R15

In terms of competition, the RC 160 goes head-to-head with the Yamaha R15 V4. The Yamaha R15 currently starts at Rs 1,66,200 and goes up to Rs 1,91,200 (ex-showroom) for the top-spec M variant. It is powered by a 155cc engine that makes 18.4PS and 14.2Nm (0.6PS and 1.3Nm less). On paper, the KTM has a slight edge in outright power and torque.

ZigSays

KTM RC 160

KTM has priced the RC 160 quite well, slotting it neatly between the 160 Duke and the RC 200. At this price point, it makes a strong case for itself as a first fully-faired performance motorcycle, especially for riders upgrading from smaller commuters or naked bikes. With slightly more power than the R15, aggressive styling, and KTM’s signature sporty DNA, the RC 160 brings a fresh and compelling option to the entry-level supersport segment in India.

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KTM RC 160
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KTM RC 160
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KTM Bikes in India

KTM Bikes in India
KTM RC 160 Price in India
City On Road Price
Delhi Rs. 2,11,598
Kolkata Rs. 2,16,485
Bangalore Rs. 2,33,617
Hyderabad Rs. 2,18,663
Mumbai Rs. 2,16,483
Ahmedabad Rs. 2,15,891
Pune Rs. 2,16,483
Chennai Rs. 2,19,132
Patna Rs. 2,15,628
Jaipur Rs. 2,15,053
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