Dreamt Of A KTM 160 Duke? Or An RC 160? Bajaj Is Making It True

Rev your engines; KTM is shifting gears in a big way.

The Austrian powerhouse is waving goodbye to its 125cc lineup, citing sluggish sales and premium pricing, and is devising its strategy with all-new 160cc models aimed at dethroning Yamaha’s MT-15 and R15 V4. But here’s the million-dollar question:  Will KTM borrow Bajaj’s 160-cc engine or tweak its own 200-cc?

Let’s dive into why this move could shake up the 150-160cc segment.

KTM 125-cc bikes: Did they exist? 

KTM’s 125cc Duke and RC bikes were never a match for what KTM stood for, i.e., ready to race but everyone knew they were not. Priced at a premium (think INR 1.81 lakh and INR 1.92 lakh, which were both prices, ex-showroom India), they struggled to compete with affordable 150cc rivals.

Why buy a 125cc when a 160cc gives more bang for your buck, asked riders! Sales figures agreed, pushing KTM to park the 125cc models in the garage—for good.

According to sources, KTM is preparing the Duke and RC 160 to be better in every sense to clash with Yamaha’s MT-15 and R15 V4. The Yamaha duos dominate India’s 150cc sports segment, blending performance and style. And that’s where KTM is planning to position their 160cc bikes that will promise the adrenaline without the premium price tag.

Bajaj’s 160 or KTM’s de-tuned 200: What will it be?

Here’s where it gets juicy. KTM’s alliance with Bajaj Auto opens two paths:

1. Bajaj’s proven 160cc powerhouse: The Pulsar NS160’s air-cooled, 160.3cc engine (17.2 PS) is a reliable and cost-effective option. Slapping this into KTM’s chassis would save R&D time and keep prices competitive.
2. Detuning the 200cc engine: KTM’s 200 Duke uses a 199.5cc liquid-cooled engine (25 PS). Detuning it to 160 cc could offer better performance but might hike costs.

Watch out, Yamaha

Yamaha MT-15 and R15 V4, both of which produce 18.4 PS, dominate the streets thanks to their race-bred DNA. KTM must strike a delicate balance between price and its "Ready to Race" philosophy in order to compete, either by leveraging Bajaj’s 160cc platform or by developing a 200cc engine that is tuned down and shouts Track-ready instead.

What’s likely under the hood?

Insiders lean toward Bajaj’s 160cc engine for its cost efficiency and proven track record. But don’t rule out surprises—KTM might add their signature liquid cooling or tweak the Bajaj block for extra punch. Either way, expect a bike that’s lighter, fiercer and priced competitively to lure Yamaha loyalists.

KTM’s 160cc gamble isn’t just about engines—it’s a strategic pivot to reclaim its spot in India’s cutthroat sport bike arena. With Yamaha in its crosshairs and Bajaj as its wingman, the 2024 lineup could be a game-changer.

Price and expected launch?

The new KTM 160 models are expected to be released in mid-2025, just in time for the holiday season. KTM may first debut the 160 Duke, followed by the RC 160. For those wishing to purchase their first KTM motorbike, the new 160 models will be an excellent starting point because they provide a higher value for money than previous versions.