KTM to Replace Duke 125 and RC 125 With 160cc Models: Details

KTM India recently discontinued its 125cc models which included the RC 125 and the Duke 125. Being the most entry-level models, the previously available 125cc models were also the most accessible ones in our market offerings from the Austrian brand. While this might sound like a setback for brand and KTM enthusiasts, the Austrian brand has something even more exciting in store. Yes, the 160cc version of the discontinued models. These will replace the outgoing 125s.

These upcoming 160cc models are expected to pack more power and better performance, allowing KTM to directly compete with Yamaha's highly successful 155cc offerings, the R15 V4 and the MT-15. Check out more details below and make sure you are part of our elite 91Wheels WhatsApp Community to stay updated on the latest auto news.

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Will Challenge Yamaha's Dominance

Yamaha has established a stronghold in the premium entry-level segment with its R15 V4 and MT-15, which collectively sell around 20,000 units per month. KTM, known for its aggressive and performance-focused motorcycles, is now preparing to challenge this dominance by introducing the 160 Duke and RC 160. With a larger engine and better performance figures. These bikes are expected to attract riders looking for a balance between affordability and power.

To Use 200cc Platform

KTM's new 160cc motorcycles will be heavily based on their existing 200cc models. The 160 Duke will adopt the sharp and muscular design of the second-generation 200 Duke, while the RC 160 will follow the latest RC styling philosophy seen on the RC 200 and RC 390. This means buyers can expect the same aggressive styling, premium bodywork and race-inspired ergonomics that KTM's RC lineup is known for.

Underneath, both bikes will utilize the familiar trellis frame chassis. for a lightweight and agile riding experience. They will also feature high-quality suspension components which may include 43mm USD forks and a monoshock at the rear. These will contribute to the brand's signature sporty handling. Additionally, premium features such as dual-channel ABS and a digital LCD instrument cluster are expected to be standard.

KTM's New 160ccs

The heart of these new models will be a freshly developed 160cc engine, derived from the 200 Duke's powertrain. While official figures are yet to be revealed, expectations suggest an output ranging around 19 to 20 horsepower. This marks a substantial increase from the outgoing 125cc models, which produce 14.5hp, and gives KTM a slight edge over Yamaha's 155cc engine, which is capable of delivering 18.4hp at its best.

While still positioned below the 25hp 200cc models, the new 160cc bikes will offer significantly more performance for buyers looking for an upgrade from the 125cc segment.

Expected Pricing

KTM has always positioned itself as a premium performance brand, and while these new 160cc models will be priced competitively against Yamaha's offerings, they are unlikely to be cheaper. Currently, the Yamaha R15 V4 is priced between Rs 1.83 lakh and Rs 2.1 lakh, while the MT-15 ranges from Rs 1.69 lakh to Rs 1.74 lakh.

Meanwhile, KTM's 125 Duke and RC 125 are already priced at Rs 1.81 lakh and Rs 1.92 lakh, respectively. This suggests that the 160 Duke and RC 160 will likely be positioned at a similar or slightly higher price point, making them a premium alternative in the segment.

Expected Launch Timeline

KTM is expected to launch these new models by mid-2025, just in time for the festive season. Whether the RC 160 will debut alongside the Duke 160 or shortly after remains to be seen.

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