KTM Launches the All-New 160 Duke in India at ₹1.85 Lakh

KTM has officially pulled the wraps off its latest streetfighter — the 160 Duke — aiming to shake up the 150–160 cc motorcycle segment in India. Priced at ₹1.85 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), this fresh entry blends KTM’s aggressive design philosophy with a power-packed yet approachable riding experience.

This launch comes at a strategic time for KTM, following the discontinuation of the 125 Duke in India. While the 125 Duke was admired for its looks and build quality, many riders felt it lacked punch for the price. The new 160 Duke directly addresses that gap, offering more power, better features, and a stronger value proposition.

Engine & Performance

Under the sharp bodywork, the 160 Duke houses a 164 cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine derived from the 200 Duke’s platform. This engine produces 19 PS at 9,500 rpm and 15.5 Nm of torque at 7,500 rpm, putting it right at the top of its class in terms of output. KTM has tuned it for a balance between zippy acceleration in city traffic and enough top-end power for spirited highway rides.

The engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox, ensuring smooth shifts and keeping the revs in the sweet spot whether you’re cruising or pushing it hard.

Chassis & Suspension

The 160 Duke is built on KTM’s second-generation steel trellis frame, designed for rigidity and agile handling. It gets inverted front forks and a preload-adjustable rear monoshock, delivering confidence-inspiring stability at high speeds and precise control through corners.

Braking & Safety

Braking duties are handled by a 300 mm front disc and 230 mm rear disc, with dual-channel ABS as standard. This setup ensures strong and progressive braking performance, giving riders confidence even in emergency situations or wet conditions.

Design & Styling

Visually, the 160 Duke carries forward KTM’s unmistakable streetfighter DNA — sharp lines, aggressive tank shrouds, and a minimalistic tail section. The muscular stance is complemented by 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in wide, grippy tyres for both style and road-holding ability.

Technology & Features

Despite being the entry point into KTM’s Duke lineup, the 160 Duke doesn’t cut corners on features. The cockpit features a full-colour TFT display with smartphone connectivity. Riders can access turn-by-turn navigation, incoming call and SMS alerts, and music control — all from the handlebar.

LED lighting all around adds to the modern appeal while improving visibility and road presence.

Positioning in the Market

The KTM 160 Duke slots neatly between commuter-friendly bikes and high-performance nakeds. Its power, premium hardware, and advanced features make it a strong rival to models like the Yamaha MT-15, TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, and Honda Hornet 2.0.

KTM seems to have learned from its 125 Duke experience — riders in this segment want both style and performance without feeling shortchanged. The 160 Duke delivers on both fronts while keeping the price competitive.

What’s Next?

KTM is expected to introduce a fully-faired RC 160 based on the same platform later this year, giving riders another option for a sportier, track-focused machine.

In summary, the KTM 160 Duke isn’t just an update; it’s a bold statement. It proves KTM’s commitment to offering accessible yet thrilling motorcycles for India’s growing community of performance riders. With its blend of style, power, and tech, the 160 Duke is poised to become a favourite among those who want a bike that looks fast, feels fast, and rides like a dream.