KTM 160 Duke Launched in India at Rs 1.85 Lakh - MT-15 Beware

The KTM 160 Duke has been launched in India, priced at Rs 1,84,998 (ex-showroom). The new KTM 160 Duke is positioned as the successor to the discontinued Duke 125.

The all-new KTM 160 Duke shares design elements and some components with the Duke 200 and also borrows a few bits from the KTM RC 200. The primary competitor for the KTM 160 Duke bike is the Yamaha MT-15.

KTM 160 Duke Launched

KTM 160 Duke - Performance & Features

The Duke 160 features a new 164.2cc liquid-cooled engine that generates 19PS at 9,500rpm and 15.5Nm at 7,500rpm. This power output surpasses the Yamaha MT-15 by 0.6PS and 1.4Nm. The engine is paired to a 6-speed transmission, aided by a slip and assist clutch.

Suspension duties are handled by a WP Apex inverted fork with a travel of 138mm at the front and a WP Apex monoshock providing 161mm wheel travel at the rear. The bike rides on lightweight 17-inch alloy wheels similar to those on the KTM RC 200.

KTM 160 Duke Launched

The braking setup on the 160 Duke includes a 320mm front disc and a 230mm rear disc with radial callipers that are aided by dual-channel ABS. The seat height is set at a relatively tall 815mm, but ground clearance is generous at 174mm.

Weighing in at a kerb weight of 147kg, the 160 Duke is about 6kg heavier than its rival, the Yamaha MT-15. The fuel tank capacity stands at approximately 10.1 litres. The Duke 160 comes equipped with a modern 5-inch LCD console offering smartphone connectivity for navigation, call/SMS alerts, and music controls.

KTM 160 Duke Launched

DriveSpark Thinks

For buyers seeking a balance between performance and fuel efficiency along with premium brand value, the new 160 Duke presents an attractive choice. Previously, KTM struggled to compete against Yamaha's MT-15 due to limitations of their earlier model—the Duke 125.

The 125 Duke lacked excitement and felt underpowered compared to competitors, leading to poor sales figures as riders quickly outgrew it. However, with improved specifications on paper compared to its predecessor, the new 160 Duke should address these concerns effectively.

Article Published On: Monday, August 11, 2025, 17:42 [IST]
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