KTM has officially launched the all‑new RC 160 in India, expanding its performance‑oriented motorcycle portfolio with a fully‑faired, track‑inspired 160cc sportbike designed for young riders and enthusiasts seeking a ready‑to‑race experience in an accessible price segment. The RC 160 sits below the RC 200 and RC 390 in KTM’s supersport lineup and promises a blend of racing DNA, sharp styling, agile handling, and modern features.
The motorcycle has been introduced at an ex‑showroom price of ₹1.85 lakh in Delhi, making it one of the most affordable fully‑faired sportbikes with premium hardware and advanced riding aids in its class. Deliveries to dealerships have already begun, with registrations underway across major cities.
Below is a comprehensive overview of the RC 160, covering engine and performance, design and styling, chassis and suspension, braking and safety, features and technology, fuel capacity and ergonomics, as well as competitive positioning within the Indian market.
Launch Details & Positioning
The KTM RC 160 is aimed at riders who want supersport styling and performance character at an accessible price point, while also offering modern features and solid mechanicals typically found on larger displacement KTM models. Positioned as an entry‑level sportbike, the RC 160 competes against other premium bikes in the 150–165 cc category, including rivals like the Yamaha R15.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Model Name | KTM RC 160 |
| Launch Date (India) | January 8, 2026 |
| Price (Ex‑Showroom, Delhi) | ₹1.85 Lakh |
| Category | Entry‑Level Fully‑Faired Sportbike |
| Target Competitors | Yamaha R15, Similar Mid‑Size Sportbikes |
Engine & Performance Specifications
The RC 160 draws power from KTM’s proven 164.2 cc, liquid‑cooled, single‑cylinder engine — the same unit that debuted in the 160 Duke. This motor is tuned for spirited performance while maintaining manageable power delivery suitable for both new riders and experienced enthusiasts.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 164.2 cc, Liquid‑Cooled, Single Cylinder, SOHC |
| Max Power | ~19 PS @ 9,500 rpm |
| Max Torque | ~15.5 Nm @ 7,500 rpm |
| Gearbox | 6‑Speed with Assist & Slipper Clutch |
| Top Speed | ~118 km/h |
| Redline | 10,200 rpm |
The inclusion of an assist and slipper clutch improves shift quality and reduces rear wheel hop during aggressive downshifts, while the high‑revving nature of the engine keeps it engaging on both street and open road riding.
Design & Styling
The KTM RC 160 carries forward the bold and aggressive design language seen on its bigger siblings like the RC 200 and RC 390. Its fully‑fared bodywork, sharp lines, and compact proportions reflect a race‑ready character rarely found in this segment.
| Design Element | Feature |
|---|---|
| Body Style | Fully‑Faired Sportbike |
| Frame | Trellis Frame |
| Headlight | LED Headlamp with DRLs |
| Fairing | Aerodynamic Full Fairing |
| Handlebar | Clip‑On Handlebar Setup |
| Seat | Split Seat Design |
| Colour Options | Standard Graphic Options at Launch |
The sporty stance is accentuated by low handlebars, a sculpted fuel tank, and aerodynamic body panels that improve rider engagement and visual appeal.
Chassis, Suspension & Braking
KTM has equipped the RC 160 with premium mechanicals to ensure dynamic handling and confidence‑inspiring control, whether navigating twisty roads or urban traffic.
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Front Suspension | 37 mm Inverted (USD) Front Forks |
| Rear Suspension | Monoshock |
| Frame Type | Trellis Frame |
| Front Brake | 320 mm Disc |
| Rear Brake | 230 mm Disc |
| ABS | Dual‑Channel ABS with Supermoto Mode |
| Wheels | 17‑inch Alloy Wheels |
| Tyres | Tubeless (110/70‑17 Front; 140/60‑R17 Rear) |
The RC 160’s inverted front forks and dual‑channel ABS with Supermoto Mode — where ABS can be partially disengaged for rear wheel control — elevate its handling potential and braking confidence ahead of many competitors.
Features & Technology
KTM has not skimped on features in the RC 160, ensuring that riders enjoy both performance and convenience. While it may not offer the fullest TFT display found on some rivals, it packs essential modern equipment.
| Feature Category | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Lighting | Full LED Lighting (Headlamp, Tail, Indicators) |
| Instrumentation | LCD Instrument Cluster |
| Ride Aids | Dual‑Channel ABS, Supermoto Mode |
| Safety Tech | Assist & Slipper Clutch |
| Connectivity | Navigation Support (TA Variant Only) |
| Fuel Injection | Electronic Fuel Injection |
The instrument cluster provides clear readouts of speed, gear position, fuel, trip meters, and other critical data, while features like Supermoto mode and navigation support (on higher trim) enhance versatility and daily usability.
Fuel Tank & Ergonomics
Comfort and practicality are not overlooked, despite the bike’s sporty intentions.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13.75 litres |
| Rider Ergonomics | Aggressive yet Manageable Riding Posture |
| Seat Type | Split Seat for Rider & Pillion |
The 13.75‑litre tank gives decent range for commuting and spirited weekend rides alike, and the split seating setup balances comfort with a sport‑focused riding position.
Safety & Rider Convenience
Safety remains a key feature set for any motorcycle, and the RC 160 includes both hardware and rider aids that support secure riding in diverse conditions.
| Safety Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Braking Support | Dual‑Channel ABS |
| Enhanced Control | Supermoto ABS Mode |
| Clutch System | Assist & Slipper Clutch |
| Lighting | All LED for Better Night Visibility |
These components ensure that the rider has improved braking feedback, reduced rear wheel hop, and enhanced visibility in various riding situations — perfect for both daily commuting and spirited performance riding.
Competitive Landscape
The RC 160 enters a segment where performance‑oriented riders often choose premium options from other brands. Its key competitor remains the Yamaha R15, which has long been a favorite in the fully‑faired sportbike category. KTM’s entry with the RC 160 brings distinctive track‑focused styling and performance hardware to the mix, potentially attracting riders who prefer a more aggressive aesthetic and racier setup.
| Competitor Bike | Approx Price (Ex‑Showroom) |
|---|---|
| Yamaha R15 | ₹1.66 Lakh (approx.) |
| KTM RC 160 | ₹1.85 Lakh |
While the RC 160 costs a bit more than the R15, its premium hardware, assist & slipper clutch, and Supermoto mode offer performance and mechanical sophistication that appeal to enthusiasts willing to step up for a more complete experience.
Conclusion
The KTM RC 160 marks an important addition to KTM India’s lineup — delivering track‑ready performance, premium mechanicals, aggressive styling, and modern features at an accessible price point. Its launch reinforces KTM’s positioning in the premium sportsbike segment, especially for young riders seeking a bike that stands out in both looks and performance.
With a price of ₹1.85 lakh (ex‑showroom Delhi), state‑of‑the‑art suspension, advanced braking tech, and a rev‑happy engine, the RC 160 promises to be a popular choice for riders looking for supersport thrills in the 160cc class.
Note:- Image used is AI generated.