KTM Duke 160

Overview

As KTM’s latest entry in the 160cc segment, the 2025 Duke 160 steps up to attract riders seeking agility, style, and the brand’s signature “Ready to Race” philosophy. This model, introduced as an update to KTM’s streetfighter line, is engineered to merge daily practicality with spirited performance, appealing to both new and experienced riders in India’s urban and semi-urban environments.

Engine Performance: Balancing Power and Refinement

The heart of the new Duke 160 is a 164.2cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. This unit generates 19 horsepower at 9,500 rpm and 15.5 Nm of torque at 7,500 rpm, figures that put it slightly ahead of notable rivals in the 160cc class. KTM opted for a six-speed gearbox, enhanced by an assist-and-slipper clutch for smooth gear changes and added confidence during aggressive downshifts.

The engine’s tuning emphasizes a punchy mid-range, making city commutes both effortless and engaging. Meanwhile, a broad powerband ensures the bike remains lively even at highway speeds, a rare trait in this segment.

Chassis, Suspension, and Braking: Premium DNA

The Duke 160 continues KTM’s tradition of outstanding chassis engineering. It uses a lightweight steel trellis frame, shared with larger Dukes, for excellent rigidity and precise handling. Suspension duties are handled by 43 mm WP Apex upside-down forks at the front and a pre-load adjustable WP monoshock at the rear—a combination more commonly found on pricier motorcycles.

Braking is sharp and progressive: a 320 mm front disc and 230 mm rear disc are complemented by dual-channel ABS as standard. Supermoto mode, a highlight for advanced riders, lets you deactivate the rear ABS for controlled slides during fun, spirited riding.

Design and Visual Appeal: Aggressive Yet Accessible

The Duke 160 carries forward the brand’s bold streetfighter look. Its design is defined by sharp, angular lines, a muscular fuel tank, a stepped split seat, and an exposed frame. The LED headlamp, tail light, and indicators add a modern edge to its muscular stance.

Color options include the iconic Electronic Orange, Atlantic Blue, and Silver Metallic Matte, each accentuating the bike’s dynamic silhouette. With its compact dimensions and distinctive style, the Duke 160 is unmistakably a KTM—and aims to stand out both in traffic and at parking lots.

Technology and Features: Modern Convenience and Safety

KTM equips the Duke 160 with a five-inch LCD display that offers a clear readout of speed, rpm, gear position, fuel level, and trip meters. While not a TFT screen, the LCD is bright, functional, and supports KTM’s Bluetooth-based My Ride app. This allows turn-by-turn navigation, call/SMS alerts, and music controls—rare in this category.

The full-LED lighting package enhances night visibility and gives the bike a premium, contemporary feel. With dual-channel ABS and optional supermoto mode, the Duke 160 brings both safety and a bit of fun to the segment.

Ergonomics and Dimensions: Practical Performance

The newer version has a seat height of 815 mm, making it accessible for a wide range of riders. Its kerb weight is 147 kg, contributing to an easy, agile feel in city traffic. The 1,357 mm wheelbase provides stability, while the ground clearance of 174 mm ensures hassle-free maneuverability over Indian roads.

A 10.1-liter fuel tank offers a realistic city range of around 300 km, thanks to the bike’s efficient engine. The upright riding posture strikes a good compromise for both comfort and sporty handling, making it suitable for varied urban riding conditions.

For storage, the Duke 160 has a small compartment behind the side panel for documents, but don’t expect much more. It’s built for speed, not utility.

Pricing and Warranty: Competitive Edge

Launched at approximately ₹1.85 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), the Duke 160 sits at the premium end of the 160cc segment. KTM backs it with a 10-year extended warranty, signaling confidence in its durability and offering peace of mind for long-term ownership.

Rival Comparison: How Does It Stack Up?

The Duke 160 faces stiff competition from the Yamaha MT-15 V2, TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, and Bajaj Pulsar NS160. All three are established in the Indian market, but the KTM offers a unique blend of performance, aesthetics, and technology.

Here’s why the Duke 160 stands out:
- Hardware: Premium suspension, chassis, and brakes usually reserved for bigger bikes
- Engine: Stronger power and torque than most competitors
- Tech: Advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity and supermoto ABS
- Brand Appeal: The KTM logo holds a premium, sporty cachet in global motorcycling circles

Ownership Experience: Service and Maintenance

KTM’s service network in India is steadily growing. The Duke 160’s premium positioning means it may have slightly higher maintenance costs than domestic competitors, but access to genuine parts and experienced technicians is generally reliable in major cities.

Extensive warranty coverage—up to 10 years—is a strong selling point, making the Duke 160 a compelling choice for those looking to own a performance motorcycle for the long haul.

Conclusion: The Ideal Choice for Aspiring Performance Riders

The 2025 KTM Duke 160 doesn’t just replace the 125 Duke—it reinvents the segment. With its engaging engine, quality chassis, and modern tech, it’s a real standout for riders seeking a sporty, exciting, and stylish daily steed. It’s not just the most powerful “entry-level” streetfighter on sale, but also one of the best-equipped and most reliable.

For those considering a new ride in the 160cc bracket and wanting something more than a run-of-the-mill commuter, the KTM Duke 160 is a smart, spirited, and stylish investment.