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KTM RC 160 vs Yamaha R15 Spec Comparison: What’s Different?
The KTM RC 160 and Yamaha R15M are two distinct entry-level sportbikes in India, showcasing different designs and engineering. The RC 160 features a sharp, aggressive style consistent with its higher-capacity siblings, powered by a 164.2 cc engine. In contrast, the R15M draws inspiration from larger models, utilizing a 155 cc engine. Both bikes have modern electronics and safety features, like ABS. Pricing is competitive, with the RC 160 at Rs 1.85 lakh and the R15M at Rs 1.81 lakh, highlighting their appeal in the performance-focused segment.
Keshav Rajput
Updated Jan 9, 2026, 11:24 AM IST
KTM RC 160 vs Yamaha R15 Spec Comparison: What’s Different?
The KTM RC 160 and Yamaha R15M represent two approaches to the entry-level fully-faired sportbike segment in India. While both motorcycles are positioned as performance-focused offerings with track-inspired styling and modern electronics, they differ in engine displacement, chassis layout, braking hardware, feature sets and overall dimensions.
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KTM RC 160 vs Yamaha R15: Design
In terms of design, both motorcycles feature a full-fairing layout and aggressive sportbike proportions, but their styling direction is rooted in different design lineages. The RC 160 follows KTM RC design language and appears visually consistent with the higher-capacity models like RC 200 and RC 390. It features sharp, angular body panels, a pronounced front fairing, integrated LED lighting and visible trellis frame elements that define its overall form.
The Yamaha R15M draws inspiration from Yamaha’s larger supersport models, particularly in its front-end treatment and fairing design. It uses a compact tail section and layered fairing surfaces.
KTM RC 160 vs Yamaha R15: Engine
The KTM RC 160 is powered by a 164.2 cc, liquid-cooled, SOHC engine that puts out 18.7bhp at 9,500 rpm and 15.5Nm at 7,500 rpm paired with a 6-speed gearbox and features an assist and slipper clutch. KTM claims that the RC160 has a top speed of 118 kmph.
The Yamaha R15M uses a 155 cc, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke SOHC, 4-valve engine delivering 18.1bhp at 10,000 rpm and 14.2Nm at 7,500 rpm paired with a 6-speed transmission with a wet, multi-plate clutch.
KTM RC 160 vs Yamaha R15: Chassis, Suspension and Brakes
The KTM RC 160 is built around a trellis frame and comes with 37 mm inverted (USD) front forks and a rear monoshock. Braking duties are handled by a 320 mm front disc and a 230 mm rear disc, supported by dual-channel ABS with Supermoto mode. The R15M uses Yamaha’s Deltabox frame, paired with 37 mm USD front forks and a linked-type Monocross rear suspension. Brakes include a 282 mm front disc and a 220 mm rear disc, also with dual-channel ABS.
KTM RC 160 vs Yamaha R15: Wheels, Tyres and Dimensions
The KTM RC 160 rides on 17-inch alloy wheels with 110/70-17 front and 140/60 R17 rear tubeless tyres. It is equipped with a 13.75-litre metal fuel tank. The Yamaha R15M features 17-inch wheels with a 100/80-17 front and 140/70 R17 radial rear tyre. It has an 11-litre fuel tank, a kerb weight of 141 kg, 815 mm seat height, and 170 mm ground clearance.
KTM RC 160 vs Yamaha R15: Features and Technology
The RC 160 includes all-LED lighting, an LCD instrument cluster, CAN-enabled electronics, electronic fuel injection and dual-channel ABS with Supermoto mode. Navigation support is available on the TA variant. On the contrary, the Yamaha R15M comes equipped with a colour TFT display, Bluetooth connectivity via Y-Connect, turn-by-turn navigation, music control, shift timing light, gear position indicator, side-stand engine cut-off and a full LED lighting setup.
KTM RC 160 vs Yamaha R15: Pricing
In terms of pricing, the KTM RC 160 is priced at Rs 1.85 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). On the other hand, the Yamaha R15M is priced at Rs 1.81 lakh (ex-showroom).
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