The KTM RC 160 is one of the popular budget sports bikes currently available in the Indian market. It carries a price tag of Rs 1.85 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). This price makes it the entry point into KTM’s fully-faired RC supersport lineup in our home market. For buyers comparing faired bikes in the 160cc segment, the RC 160 sits above the Yamaha R15 V4 in price but brings a different engine character, suspension setup as well as feature set to the table. Here’s a breakdown of everything you need to know before visiting a KTM dealership.
KTM RC 160: Engine Specs and Top Speed
The KTM RC 160 runs a 164.2cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled SOHC engine. This unit produces 18.74 hp of maximum power at 9,500 rpm and 15.5 Nm of peak torque at 7,500 rpm. The transmission unit on duty is a 6-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch. The liquid-cooled unit is paired with a 40% larger airbox over the previous version for better low-to-mid range response.
The claimed ARAI mileage is 36 kmpl and the theoretical range works out to just under 500 km. The fuel tank capacity stands at 13.5 litres. Meanwhile, the top speed claimed by the Austrian bikemaker comes in around 118 kmph. This is adequate for highway overtaking but below what the larger RC 200 can manage.
KTM RC 160: Specs, Features and Colours
The RC 160 uses a split-trellis frame with 37mm WP Apex USD forks up front and a WP Apex adjustable monoshock at the rear — proper suspension hardware that the Yamaha R15 at this price point doesn’t match. Braking is handled by a 320mm front disc and 230mm rear disc. Both come with dual-channel ABS and the brand has also included a Supermoto ABS mode that allows the rear wheel to lock intentionally for track use.
Kerb weight is 155kg, seat height is 830mm, and ground clearance is 168mm. The handlebar comes with adjustable risers which lets you raise it for street use or remove them entirely for a more committed track position.
Feature-wise, the KTM RC 160 gets full LED lighting including segment-first integrated front indicators built into the DRLs, an LCD instrument cluster showing speed, RPM, gear position, fuel consumption and shift lights, plus 17-inch alloy wheels with 110/70 front and 140/60 rear tubeless tyres.
Three colours are available: Black, Electronic Orange Matte and Ceramic White Matte. All three are priced identically at the same Rs 1.85 lakh ex-showroom figure, so colour choice doesn’t add a premium here.