KTM RC 160 vs Yamaha R15: Engine specs, features & more compared

KTM has expanded its RC line-up with the launch of the new RC 160, putting it head-to-head with the long-standing Yamaha R15 in the entry-level fully-faired segment. Here’s a quick look at how these motorcycles stack up against each other when it comes to engines, hardware and features.

KTM RC 160 vs Yamaha R15: Engine

Starting with the powertrain, the Yamaha R15 is powered by a 155 cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine with a 4-stroke, SOHC and 4-valve setup. The engine produces around 18.4 hp and 14.2 Nm of torque and is paired with a 6-speed gearbox.

The KTM RC 160, on the other hand, uses a larger 164.2cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder SOHC engine. It delivers 19 hp and 15.5 Nm of torque. It gets a 6-speed gearbox, supported by an assist and slipper clutch.

KTM RC 160 vs Yamaha R15: Hardware

In terms of cycle parts, the RC 160 is built around a trellis frame and gets a 37 mm USD front fork along with a rear monoshock. Braking hardware includes a 320 mm disc at the front and a 230 mm disc at the rear, supported by dual-channel ABS. The bike runs on 17-inch alloy wheels with tubeless tyres, and it also gets a 13.75-litre fuel tank.

The Yamaha R15M uses a diamond-type frame and is also equipped with a 37 mm inverted front fork and a monoshock at the rear. It rides on 17-inch alloy wheels as well, but the braking setup is slightly smaller, with a 282 mm front disc and a 220 mm rear disc. Like the KTM, the R15M also comes with dual-channel ABS as standard.

KTM RC 160 vs Yamaha R15: Features

When it comes to features, both bikes offer a modern equipment list, though with different focuses. The KTM RC 160 gets full LED lighting, electronic fuel injection, a CAN-enabled electronic system and navigation support on select variants. It uses an LCD instrument console, which is functional but relatively basic in appearance.

The Yamaha R15M counters this with a more advanced TFT instrument cluster. It offers features such as traction control, Track and Street riding modes, a quick shifter, Bluetooth connectivity with call and SMS alerts via a digital console, and LED lighting.

Price is another area where the two remain closely matched. The KTM RC 160 is priced at Rs 1.85 lakh, ex-showroom, while the Yamaha R15M starts at Rs 1.81 lakh, ex-showroom.