The KTM 160 Duke has finally hit the Indian market, launched on August 11, 2025, at an ex-showroom price of Rs. 1.85 lakh in Delhi. This new motorcycle replaces the discontinued KTM 125 Duke and brings a fresh, powerful option to the 160cc segment. Designed to compete with bikes like the Yamaha MT-15 and TVS Apache RTR 160, the KTM 160 Duke offers a mix of bold styling, strong performance, and modern features. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the KTM 160 Duke, including its price, specifications, features, and why it’s a great choice for young riders in India.
Why the KTM 160 Duke Stands Out
The KTM 160 Duke is the new entry-level bike in KTM’s Indian lineup, sitting below the 200 Duke. It’s built to attract young riders who want a stylish, high-performance motorcycle at an affordable price. With its sporty design, advanced technology, and a powerful engine, it’s ready to take on the competition in the premium 160cc category.
A Successor to the 125 Duke
The KTM 160 Duke steps in as the spiritual successor to the 125 Duke, which was discontinued earlier in 2025. While the 125 Duke was popular, it lacked the power some riders wanted. The 160 Duke fixes this by offering a stronger engine and better features, all while keeping the price competitive at Rs. 1.85 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). This makes it just Rs. 3,968 more expensive than the 125 Duke, offering great value for the upgrades.
Key Specifications of the KTM 160 Duke
The KTM 160 Duke comes with a host of impressive specs that make it one of the most powerful bikes in its class. Here’s a quick look at its key specifications:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 164.2cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled |
| Power | 19 PS at 9,500 RPM |
| Torque | 15.5 Nm at 7,500 RPM |
| Transmission | 6-speed gearbox with assist-and-slipper clutch |
| Suspension (Front) | WP Apex USD forks, 138mm travel |
| Suspension (Rear) | WP Apex monoshock, 161mm travel |
| Brakes | 320mm front disc, 230mm rear disc, dual-channel ABS |
| Weight | 147 kg (kerb) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 10.1 liters |
| Ground Clearance | 174 mm |
| Seat Height | 815 mm |
| Price | Rs. 1.85 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) |
Engine and Performance
The KTM 160 Duke is powered by a 164.2cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine, derived from the 200 Duke. This engine produces 19 PS at 9,500 RPM and 15.5 Nm of torque at 7,500 RPM, making it one of the most powerful in the 160cc segment. Compared to the Yamaha MT-15, it offers 0.6 PS more power and 1.4 Nm more torque, giving it an edge in performance. The bike comes with a 6-speed gearbox and an assist-and-slipper clutch for smooth gear shifts, even during aggressive riding.
Design and Styling
The KTM 160 Duke carries the brand’s signature aggressive and sporty design. It features a sharp fuel tank with bold extensions, a sleek split-seat setup, and a compact tail section. The LED headlight, flanked by LED DRLs, adds to its modern, streetfighter look. The bike also has a steel trellis frame that’s both strong and lightweight, enhancing its sporty appeal.
Color Options
The KTM 160 Duke is available in three striking colors:
- Electronic Orange: KTM’s iconic orange-and-black combo.
- Atlantic Blue: A bold blue-and-white scheme with orange highlights.
- Silver Metallic Matte: A sleek, modern look that stands out.
Features That Impress
The KTM 160 Duke is packed with features to make riding fun and convenient. Here are some highlights:
Advanced Technology
- 5-inch LCD Display: The bike comes with a modern LCD console that supports smartphone connectivity via the KTM Connect app. Riders can access turn-by-turn navigation, call/SMS alerts, and music controls.
- LED Lighting: Full LED setup for headlights, taillights, and turn indicators ensures better visibility and a premium look.
- Dual-Channel ABS: Switchable ABS for the rear wheel provides safety during sudden braking, with the option to turn it off for off-road riding.
Suspension and Braking
The bike uses high-quality WP Apex suspension, with upside-down forks at the front (138mm travel) and a monoshock at the rear (161mm travel). This setup ensures a comfortable and stable ride, whether on city streets or twisty roads. Braking is handled by a 320mm front disc and a 230mm rear disc, supported by dual-channel ABS for added safety.
Lightweight and Agile
With a kerb weight of 147 kg and a ground clearance of 174 mm, the KTM 160 Duke is easy to handle, even for new riders. The 815mm seat height is slightly tall but manageable, and the 10.1-liter fuel tank offers decent range for daily commutes or weekend rides.
Pricing and Availability
Priced at Rs. 1.85 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), the KTM 160 Duke is competitively priced against rivals like the Yamaha MT-15 and TVS Apache RTR 160. Bookings are open through KTM’s official website and dealerships, with deliveries starting on August 12, 2025. KTM also offers a 10-year extended warranty, which is a big plus for buyers.
Financing Options
KTM provides attractive financing schemes to make the 160 Duke more accessible. With a low processing fee of 1% or Rs. 750 (whichever is lower) and an ROI starting at 9.49%, the EMI can be as low as Rs. 100 per day for a 48-month tenure.
How It Compares to Rivals
The KTM 160 Duke takes on strong competitors like the Yamaha MT-15 and TVS Apache RTR 160. Here’s how it stacks up:
- Yamaha MT-15: While the MT-15 has a TFT console and switchable traction control, the 160 Duke offers more power and torque, along with KTM’s premium brand value.
- TVS Apache RTR 160: The Apache is known for its sharp handling, but the 160 Duke’s superior engine and advanced features give it an edge.
- Hero Xtreme 250R: Priced at Rs. 1.79 lakh, the Hero offers more power, but the KTM 160 Duke has better brand appeal and a sportier design.
Why Choose the KTM 160 Duke?
The KTM 160 Duke is a great pick for young riders who want a bike that’s exciting to ride, stylish, and packed with modern features. Its powerful engine, sharp handling, and premium components make it a standout in the 160cc segment. The 10-year warranty and affordable financing options add to its appeal, making it a smart choice for both new and experienced riders.
Conclusion
The KTM 160 Duke is a bold addition to KTM’s lineup in India, offering a perfect balance of performance, style, and value. Priced at Rs. 1.85 lakh, it brings premium features like dual-channel ABS, LED lighting, and smartphone connectivity to the 160cc segment. With its sporty design and powerful engine, it’s ready to take on rivals like the Yamaha MT-15 and TVS Apache RTR 160. If you’re looking for a fun, reliable, and stylish motorcycle, the KTM 160 Duke is worth checking out. Book yours today and get ready to experience KTM’s “Ready to Race” spirit!
FAQs
What is the price of the KTM 160 Duke in India?
The KTM 160 Duke is priced at Rs. 1.85 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).
What are the color options for the KTM 160 Duke?
It is available in Electronic Orange, Atlantic Blue, and Silver Metallic Matte.
What is the engine capacity and power of the KTM 160 Duke?
The bike has a 164.2cc engine that produces 19 PS at 9,500 RPM and 15.5 Nm of torque at 7,500 RPM.
Does the KTM 160 Duke have ABS?
Yes, it comes with dual-channel ABS, which is switchable for the rear wheel.
When will deliveries of the KTM 160 Duke start?
Deliveries are scheduled to begin on August 12, 2025.
How does the KTM 160 Duke compare to the Yamaha MT-15?
The KTM 160 Duke offers more power (19 PS vs. 18.4 PS) and torque (15.5 Nm vs. 14.1 Nm) than the Yamaha MT-15, but the MT-15 has a TFT console and traction control.
