KTM RC 160

OVERVIEW

PERFORMANCE AND ENGINE

The engine produces 19 PS at 9,500rpm, giving strong acceleration from the mid-range up. It delivers 15.5 Nm of torque at 7,500rpm, focusing on high-rpm power for sporty riding. The BS6 Phase 2 engine uses a wet multi-plate assist-and-slipper clutch, which makes the clutch easier to use and helps prevent rear-wheel hop during hard downshifts on Indian roads.

The 6-speed manual gearbox shifts smoothly and matches the engine’s high-revving character. The assist function makes the clutch lighter, which helps during frequent gear changes in city traffic or on the track. Power goes to 17-inch alloy wheels with tubeless MRF tyres, allowing quick direction changes. The slipper clutch keeps the bike stable during downshifts at high speeds, which is useful for overtaking on the highway in India.

KTM says the RC 160 can reach a top speed of 118 kmph in top gear, helped by its aerodynamic fairing for better wind protection at high speeds. Real-world tests on flat Indian highways confirm this speed, and the 0.12 PS/kg power-to-weight ratio allows stable cruising above 100 kmph without much vibration. The liquid-cooling system keeps the engine running well during long rides in hot weather.

MILEAGE AND FUEL EFFICIENCY

The ARAI-certified mileage is about 43.5 kmpl under standard test conditions, thanks to efficient fuel injection and liquid cooling. This puts the RC 160 on par with its competitors. With a 13.7L fuel tank, it can theoretically go over 590km, making it suitable for long rides in India. Official tests focus on steady riding, but KTM says mileage can change with more aggressive use.

Indian riders say they get 35-40 kmpl in mixed city and highway use. In heavy city traffic, like in Mumbai or Delhi, mileage drops to around 35 kmpl because of the sporty riding position and frequent revving. On highways at steady speeds of 80-100 kmph, it can reach 40-45 kmpl, and some YouTube tests report up to 45 kmpl on open roads if you avoid full throttle. In city commutes, most riders see 36-38 kmpl, affected by stop-and-go traffic and the bike’s 155kg weight.

FEATURES AND TECHNOLOGY

The KTM RC 160 delivers track-inspired features in India’s competitive 160cc supersport segment, powered by a high-revving 164.2cc liquid-cooled engine.

1. Engine –164.2 cc single-cylinder, 4-stroke, air-cooled, FI with 66mm bore x 48mm stroke, 11.97:1 compression, revs to 10,200rpm redline.
2. Power Output –19 PS at 9,500rpm for explosive acceleration in urban sprints and highway overtakes.​
3. Torque Delivery – 15.5 Nm at 7,500rpm, optimised for mid-to-high rev punch suited to Indian twisty roads.​
4. Transmission – 6-speed manual with wet multi-plate assist-anoptimised clutch for smooth shifts and rear-wheel stability during downshifts.​
5. Chassis –Trellis frame (tubular, front and rear split subframe) for lightweight stiffness and superior handling on potholed Indian streets
6. Suspension Front – WP APEX 37mm upside-down forks, non-adjustable, providing precise feedback for cornering
7. Suspension Rear –WP APEX preload-adjustable monoshock for balanced ride over speed bumps and undulations.​
8. Brakes Front – 320mm hubless disc with radial fixed calliper for strong stopping power under panic braking.​
9. Brakes Rear – 230mm disc with floating calliper, paired with dual-channel ABS featuring Supermoto mode for track-like rear control.​
10. Wheels and Tyres–17-inch lightweight alloy wheels with 110/70-17 front and 140/60 R17 rear tubeless MRF tyres for grip in wet and dry Indian conditions.​
11. Dimensions– 1,977mm length, 688mm width, 1,094mm height, 1,365mm wheelbase, 155kg kerb weight, 830mm seat height, 168mm ground clearance.​
12. Fuel Tank–13.5-13.75L capacity for extended range on long Indian tours.​
13. Ergonomics–Low-set clip-on handlebars and committed supersport riding position for aggressive lean angles on ghat sections.​
14. Instrument Cluster–Negative LCD digital display with CAN bus integration; TA variant adds turn-by-turn navigation via smartphone connectivity.
15. Lighting–All-LED headlamp, taillamp, and indicators for superior visibility in low-light Indian monsoons.
16. Rider Aids –Supermoto ABS mode, electronic fuel injection for crisp response, and a lighter chassis design for agility.​
17. Colour –Black with a matte finish, complemented by KTM’s signature orange accents on the wheels and frame.
18. Battery –12V 8Ah maintenance-free (Exide/Amaron) for reliable starts in humid climates.​

BUILD QUALITY

KTM uses a lighter and stiffer trellis frame with split subframes, making the RC 160 even more READY TO RACE than earlier models while still strong enough for India’s rough roads and weather. Parts like the 37mm WP APEX USD forks, adjustable rear monoshock, and 320mm front disc with radial calliper are well built.

Riders mention low maintenance costs and affordable first services. The aerodynamic fairing and quality plastics give the bike a premium feel, and KTM’s reputation for durable parts adds confidence.

HANDLING

The RC 160’s 155kg chassis and 1,365mm wheelbase make it easy to corner sharply and move quickly through traffic or on winding roads. The WP suspension is tuned for Indian roads, soaking up bumps and giving riders confidence when leaning into turns.

Supermoto ABS helps control the rear wheel on slippery surfaces. Reviewers like its nimble, light feel, which is similar to the Duke, making it easy to handle for both new and experienced riders.

COMFORT

The RC 160 has a sporty riding position with low clip-on handlebars and rear-set footpegs at an 830mm seat height. This setup is more about aggressive riding than comfort on long trips. Still, it works well for shorter Indian riders on daily commutes.

Some riders say the seat feels “a bit hard” on long highway rides. Still, the bike’s light weight helps reduce fatigue in city traffic. The suspension handles rough roads well, though it shows slight harshness, and vibrations can be felt on the footpegs above 7,000rpm during fast rides.

STYLING

The RC 160 features sharp bodywork, a full aerodynamic fairing, front cowl, and split seat, similar to the RC 200 and RC 390. Its angular tank shrouds and compact tail give it a clear KTM READY TO RACE look. At the front, a sleek LED headlamp, LED DRLs, and a small windshield help with wind protection on highways.

Polygonal mirrors and “RC 160” badges add to the style. The design focuses on lightness and aggression, with bold graphics and a low stance that stand out whether parked or on the move.

COLOUR OPTIONS AND VARIANTS

The KTM RC 160 is available in one colour option in India:

1. Black

The black colour comes with a matte finish, which helps resist fingerprints and gives the bike a modern, sporty look that appeals to many Indian riders. It is complemented by KTM’s signature orange accents on the wheels and frame, maintaining the brand’s iconic design language.

KTM offers the RC 160 in a single standard variant in India, providing the full supersport experience without multiple trim levels. This simplified lineup makes it easier to compare with rivals like the Yamaha R15, as the single colour and variant come with the same features and specifications.

VALUE FOR MONEY AND PRICING

The RC 160’s is priced at ₹ 1,85,000 ex-showroom price for the single standard variant, regardless of the colour you choose. There are no different versions at launch. The RC 160 stands out from its rivals by offering 19 PS power, liquid cooling, WP suspension, dual-channel Supermoto ABS, and full LED lighting. These features are rare in this segment, making it ideal for track use.

Owners note that the KTM brand enhances resale value, and the bike has low running costs and a 3-year warranty. This makes it a good choice for enthusiasts, even though its mileage is a bit lower than that of commuter bikes. The RC 160 comes fully loaded with features at no extra cost, offering better value for performance than many competitors’ base models.

Direct rivals include

1. Yamaha R15 V4
2. TVS Apache RTR 160 4V
3. Bajaj Pulsar NS160
4. Suzuki Gixxer SF 155

These bikes compete on value with their naked or clip-on styles, but they lack liquid cooling and KTM’s handling advantage. Overall, the RC 160 is aimed at premium sport riders who might also consider the R15, and it is priced below the RC 200.