KTM RC 125

Undoubtedly, KTM RC 125 is one of the most demanding and excellent bikes out there and this claim is nowhere an exaggeration. Ranging between INR1.81-1.86 lakhs, this bike is packed with attractive tech features, including ABS. The bike is available in two variants, 2020 ABS and 2022 ABS. The bike is available in four different colour options: Orange/black, orange/dark Galvano, dark Galvano and orange/white.

How is the design?

KTM RC 125 is a work of art in itself and comes with captivating designs and alluring bodyworks. The fully-faired version of the naked 125 Duke, the KTM RC 125 is all that a rider can ask for. The moto GP machine company inspired the design and the bodywork of KTM RC 125. The new model comes with the same cycle parts and mechanicals of its naked sibling. The bike features twin projector headlamps in the front. The LED DRLs, boomerang shaped, are placed on its chin and are paired with a windscreen atop. The sculpted fuel tank on one side of the bike boasts the badging of RC125, while the other instrumentations are shared with its other sibling.

How is the Performance?

The KTM RC 125 features a 124.7 cc, single cylinder, liquid cooled, 4 valve, FI, DOHC engine, which has the capacity to produce a maximum power of 14.5 PS at 9250 rpm and a maximum torque of 12Nm at 8000 rpm. Besides, it comes with disc brakes at the front as well as at the rear. The impressive performance of the bike owes to the latest and modern tech features integrated in it. The rear wheel of the bike is driven with the use of the belt drive system, and can easily pass as a beginner sports bike. Moreover, the bike is suitable for daily city commuting, highways, urban cruising and long drivers. The WP suspension used in the bike displays Its shock absorbing capacity is quite appealing, ensuring comfort to the rider and the pillion by effectively absorbing bumps and potholes. It gives maximum control of the bike.

How does the KTM RC 125 Ride?

The road performance of the KTM RC 125 is excellent. Overall, it delivers the same performance as claimed on papers, making the bike so demanding after all. Manoeuvring on the traffic and on the road has never been problematic with this entry-level sports bike. It might take up to 10 minutes for the rider to sync with the bike. At one stretch, a rider can drive up to 150 km, which enhances long-ride experiences of the riders as well. The performance and the predator look of the bike seem to be impressive. However, the performance of the low-end torque is not satisfying enough and comes with a manageable service cost.

How comfortable is the KTM RC 125?

The built, design and bodywork of the KTM RC 125 pass it off as an entry-level sports bike. The developers have added everything to it to ensure comfort. Therefore, from the comfortable seats to handling capacity, everything about this model seems just so appealing and perfect. Apart from its comfortable experience, the best on-road experience is delivered by the brake for the bumper. It can well tackle the roads with bumpers and potholes. From the noise to its vibrations, even the mileage capacity of the bike is worth a mention. The well-cushioned, plush seats offer a comfortable grip and journey.

How's the Tech?

The KTM RC 125 is BS6 compliant and powered by a liquid cooled, single cylinder, 124.7 cc engine, having an electric starter mechanism. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox unit. The transmission type of this bike is manual and the fuel delivery mechanism is implemented through fuel injection. The engine is able to produce a 14.75 bhp of power at 9250 rpm and 12 Nm of torque at maximum at 8000 rpm. This bike has a WP monoshock rear suspension and WP upside-down front suspension of 43 Mm. Braking duties are handled by a disc brake on the rear which is a single-piston floating calliper and also a disc brake in the front which is a four-piston fixed calliper. The instrument cluster is fully digital and displays all necessary information.

How's the mileage of the KTM RC 125?

The KTM RC 125 gives an average mileage of about 40 to 41.3 kmpl. It is said to deliver a better average mileage than most sports bikes in its category.

Is the KTM RC 125 good value for money?

The high-end features and hardware of course come at a cost. If someone is looking for a fully faired, entry-level motorbike then one may easily go with the Yamaha R 15 at only Rs 141,000. One can nearly spare Rs 8000. At this price one can also purchase motorcycles from one segment above, such as the well-equipped and more powerful RS 200 at a much lower price. Next, the KTM announced that the price will go up and if the KTM RC 125 sees a hike it can cost as much as the potential KTM 200Duke. This bike seems to be a little overpriced. Despite being a little overrated in its category, the sporty image is popular among college goers and this bike could be exciting and thrilling as well for beginner riders.

How is the after sales service?

KTM provides good after sale services for its bikes. The KTM RC 125 gets the first three services for free. The first service can be availed after 1 month or 1000 km, the second after 5moths or 8500 km, and the third after 9 months or 16000 km. The following services are paid and the service charge increases upon each visit.

Which motorbikes compete in this segment?

The motorbikes that compete in the same segment as the KTM RC 125 are Bajaj Pulsar NS200, TVS Apache RTR 160, KTM 200 Duke, KTM 250 Duke and Bajaj Dominar 400.

Verdict (Value for money)

The KTM RC 125 is slightly overpriced compared to the other bikes competing in the same segment. The service charges are high and so is the maintenance. Although this bike is pure fun and thrilling and also high in performance it is still not a very good value for money. This is because other bikes with similar experience and quality are available at lower prices.