- KTM 160cc range to be launched soon
- Spotted on test
- To get the same styling with engine from 200 Duke
KTM is reportedly working on a new 160cc range of motorcycles that will replace the RC 125 and 125 Duke that were taken off the shelves in international markets recently. Moreover, one of the models has also been spotted on test, further confirming the news.
According to the reports, the RC 160 and the 160 Duke will use an engine derived from the 200 Duke. While the styling and design will not stray away from the 125s, the move to a bigger capacity engine will put it in direct contention with the Yamaha R15 and MT-15 which sells like hotcakes in Asian and South East Asian markets. Even the spy images suggest that the 160 range is likely to look the same as the outgoing models and we expect them to come with the same, if not slightly updated, features. And with the updated engine, it will be interesting to see if KTM has pushed the performance figures ahead of its Japanese rivals.
As for design, you can expect muscular tank shrouds for the Duke and a full-fairing for the RC with KTM’s iconic white and orange as well and black and orange colour schemes. There will also be an LCD screen, full-LED lighting, dual-channel ABS as standard. As of now, KTM has been tight-lipped about the upcoming 160 range.
The smaller-capacity KTMs are manufactured in India by Bajaj that handles operations for the Austrian brand. We expect the motorcycles to make their debut in India around July-August and be available for sale in international markets soon after. However, considering KTMs approach in New Zealand, it is unlikely to make its debut here.
