KTM RC 160 vs Yamaha R15 Spec Comparison: What's Different?
Here's how the new KTM RC 160 stacks up against its closest competitor, the Yamaha R15, across a range of factors, including engine, dimensions and features.
By Sanorita
The KTM RC 160 vs Yamaha R15 debate has become one of the hottest topics in the entry-level supersport segment, ever since KTM launched its most affordable fully-faired sportbike in India. Replacing the older RC 125, the RC 160 shares its underpinnings with the newly launched 160 Duke, but adds full fairings, USD front forks, and twin-disc brakes with dual-channel ABS for a more aggressive and capable package.
On the other hand, the Yamaha R15 continues to be a strong competitor, with an affordable starting price than the RC 160. It positions itself as the more premium option, thanks to its advanced electronics, though KTM has slightly higher power and torque numbers. We break down the specs of the KTM RC 160 and Yamaha R15 to see which supersport bike offers the best value for your money.
KTM RC 160 vs Yamaha R15: Engine
On paper, the KTM RC 160 edges ahead in displacement and peak torque, with a 164.2cc liquid-cooled engine that produces 18.74bhp and 15.5Nm, and a 6-speed gearbox with an assist and slipper clutch. The Yamaha R15, while slightly smaller at 155cc, makes up for it with a high-revving character, delivering 18.10bhp at 10,000rpm and 14.2Nm, also mated to a 6-speed slipper clutch.
KTM RC 160 vs Yamaha R15: Hardware
The RC 160 uses a trellis frame, while the R15 has a diamond-type Deltabox frame. That said, both bikes use USD front forks and a monoshock at the rear. In terms of tyre size, the RC 160 has a wider 110/70-17 front tyre and a 140/60R-17 rear, while the R15 comes with a 100/80-17 front and a 140/70R-17 rear. When it comes to brakes, the RC 160 has larger discs at 320mm front and 230mm rear, compared to the R15’s 282mm front and 220mm rear discs.
KTM RC 160 vs Yamaha R15: Dimensions
The RC 160 is heavier at 155 kg compared to the R15’s 141 kg. Moreover, it has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1,347mm versus 1,325mm. The fuel tank capacity is also bigger on the KTM at 13.7 litres, compared to the R15’s 11 litres. In terms of ground clearance, the R15 has a marginal edge at 170mm, while the RC 160 sits at 168mm. The KTM’s seat height is taller at 830mm compared to the R15’s 815mm.
| Features | KTM RC 160 | Yamaha R15 |
| Kerb Weight | 155 kg | 141 kg |
| Ground Clearance | 168mm | 170mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 13.7 litres | 11 litres |
| Seat Height | 830mm | 815mm |
| Wheelbase | 1,347mm | 1,325mm |
KTM RC 160 vs Yamaha R15: Features
While the standard R15 V4 comes with an LCD dash that supports Bluetooth and offers a quickshifter as an optional accessory, the top-spec R15M upgrades to a TFT display inspired by the R1M and includes a quickshifter as standard. The KTM RC 160, offered in a single variant, features a simpler LCD dash with Bluetooth. It also comes with dual-channel ABS with Supermoto mode.
KTM RC 160 vs Yamaha R15: Price
| Model | Price (ex-showroom) |
| KTM RC 160 | Rs 1.85 lakh |
| Yamaha R15 | Rs 1.66 lakh – Rs 1.91 lakh |
The KTM RC 160 is priced at Rs 1.85 lakh, which makes it costlier than even the top-spec R15M.
Also Read: KTM 250 Duke Updated with New Colour Options Globally; Will India Get Them?
For reference, the Yamaha R15 range begins at Rs 1.66 lakh for the base V4, while the R15M and special Icon Performance variants go up to Rs 1.91 lakh. Even with a quickshifter added, the R15 remains more affordable than the RC 160.
