Motorcycle manufacturer KTM is reportedly planning to launch its 160 Duke model in India, possibly as early as August.
New KTM 160 Duke Set to Rev Up the Indian Market
KTM, the Austrian motorcycle manufacturer, is all set to launch the much-anticipated KTM 160 Duke in the Indian market later this year. The new bike is expected to serve as a strong contender in the 150-160cc streetfighter segment, offering a modern, high-performance 160cc streetfighter with premium features at an affordable price.
The KTM 160 Duke is based on the 2nd-generation KTM 200 Duke platform and is expected to feature a 164.2cc liquid-cooled engine producing around 18.7 to 19 bhp with a 6-speed manual transmission. It has a kerb weight of 147 kg, a fuel tank capacity of 10.1 liters, and a seat height of 815 mm. The bike also features 17-inch alloy wheels, WP suspension, and disc brakes with likely single-channel ABS to keep costs down. It is priced at around ₹1.85 lakh (ex-showroom) for the Indian market.
Comparing it with its main rivals, the KTM 160 Duke offers a competitive power output of approximately 18.7-19 bhp, slightly more than the Yamaha MT-15 (18.4 bhp) but less than the 200cc segment rivals which have higher output. The bike also boasts a lightweight chassis, premium components (WP suspension), and aggressive KTM styling, making it a key selling point.
The KTM 160 Duke will compete against the Yamaha MT-15 V2.0, TVS Apache RTR 200 4V, and Bajaj NS200 in the 160-200 cc segment. While it has a smaller engine than the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V and Bajaj NS200, its lightweight chassis, premium components, and aggressive KTM styling are expected to set it apart.
KTM’s choice of the 2nd-gen 200 Duke platform allows for cost efficiencies while maintaining a sporty ride and performance edge over 150cc rivals. The bike is expected to offer consistent power usage suitable for city use and occasional high-speed runs.
The upcoming KTM RC 160 is also scheduled to arrive later in the year, serving as a rival to the Yamaha R15 V4. Additional upcoming KTM models include the KTM RC 125 2025, KTM 890 Duke R, KTM 490 Duke, KTM 450 SX-F, KTM 125 Duke 2025, and KTM 200 Duke.
In summary, the KTM 160 Duke targets buyers wanting a modern, high-performance 160cc streetfighter with premium suspension and style at a price slightly above typical 150cc bikes but below regular 200cc models. It will primarily compete with the Yamaha MT-15 but also contend indirectly with 200cc bikes like the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V and Bajaj NS200 by offering a lighter, more focused package.
[1] Bikewale
[2] Motorbeam
[3] Zigwheels
[4] AutoX
[5] MotorOctane
- In the upcoming KTM lineup, the KTM 160 Duke will be accompanied by the KTM RC 160, KTM RC 125 2025, KTM 890 Duke R, KTM 490 Duke, KTM 450 SX-F, KTM 125 Duke 2025, and KTM 200 Duke, showcasing KTM's commitment to creating a diverse range of gadgets within the technology of motorcycles.
- Amidst the launch of the KTM 160 Duke, various automotive websites like Bikewale, Motorbeam, Zigwheels, AutoX, and MotorOctane have highlighted the bike's technological advancements, including its modern, high-performance engine, premium features, and lightweight chassis, underscoring the fusion of technology and style in the bike's design.
