KTM is expected to launch the new-gen RC models in India in the coming few weeks – Most likely starting with RC 125
KTM unveiled its new range of RC earlier this month. These models will go on sale in the coming few weeks globally. India launch is expected soon. KTM India has homologated the new gen RC 125 in the country. While the launch has also been teased via their official social media account.
On a cumulative basis, all three bikes- RC 125, RC 200 and RC 390, have undergone significant updates both over and underneath their skin. For a refreshing change, all three fully-faired motorcycles now look familiar to each other.
As we already know, bookings for all three motorcycles have commenced at several dealerships across the country. Series production of the bikes has reportedly begun at Bajaj Auto’s Chakan-based manufacturing facility. With all details out, barring prices, we aim to discuss the series of updates witnessed on all three bikes.
Updated Framework
For starters, all three RC models are now underpinned by a new framework which is lighter by 1.5kg. The new architecture utilises a trellis frame and a bolt-on rear subframe which gives the motorcycles improved high-speed stability and increased rider feel. All three bikes now boast the same suspension setup comprising 43mm USD forks at front and a mono-shock unit at rear with a braced alloy swingarm. Both units are sourced from WP Apex and offer preload adjustability.
All three entry-level RC motorcycles also get the same braking hardware which consists of a 320mm disc up front and a 230mm rotor at rear chewed down by a 4-piston BYBRE calipers at front and a single-piston caliper at rear. This gives the brakes a sharper bite. Even though larger, the new discs reduce weight by 960 grams.
The sports bikes ride on newly designed alloy wheels with fewer spokes and open hubs which not only improves handling but also reduces 3.4 kilos from RC 125 and RC 390 and 1kg from RC 200. Dual-channel ABS is offered as standard across the lineup to complement the anchorage.
Overhauled Design
In terms of design, all three bikes now get a revised front face with a new single LED headlamp flanked by LED DRLs and turn indicators on both sides. Other styling updates include a more muscular fuel tank, redesigned front fairing, a revised tail section and new body graphics. The new-gen RC models look more aerodynamic in nature thanks to the wider fairings.
It is further enhanced with the presence of air vents on the side panels which ensure optimized airflow. The only difference among the three occurs in RC 200 which unlike the other two models gets an underbelly exhaust instead of a side-on upswept exhaust.
A further distinction between the models is created with new colour options offered with the updated RC range. The entry-level RC 125 will be offered in two paint schemes- first Black with Orange highlights and second White with Orange highlights. Colour options on RC 200 will include White / Orange and Black / Orange while colour options of Blue / Orange shade will be limited to the new-gen RC390 only.
Same set of engines, more oomph
While all three motorcycles are powered by the same engine as their predecessors, KTM has made some improvements to the powertrain department. For instance, the 373cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine in RC 390 delivers the same power at 44 bhp but greater peak torque of 37 Nm, thanks to a larger airbox. This has also resulted in a higher top speed which has been increased by 11 kmph.
Moreover, enhancements like ultra-hard carbon coated cam levers and improved engine cooling have resulted in faster acceleration and higher torque delivery. RC 125 continues to derive its energy via a 124.7cc, single-cylinder engine offering 14.5 and 12 Nm of peak torque. RC 200 is powered by a 199.5cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that dishes out 24.6 bhp and 19.2 Nm of torque.
Source: Bike - rushlane.com
