A Detailed Review On Upcoming KTM Duke 125 And RC 125

KTM landed in India with their ace model Duke 200. The bike became very popular in no time among the youngsters. And soon they expanded their line up with the mighty Duke 390 and RC range of 200 and 390 variants. Indian customers were not used to naked street bikes, until Yamaha launched the 150cc commuter, with minimal naked outfits. And later with the arrival of KTM Duke 200, we came across what really is a naked street fighter looks like. The boom which KTM has created among the Indian motorcycle industry has been great.

The Austrian bike maker has increased their product line up in many countries by introducing entry level naked street bikes and full faired sportsbikes.



The KTM Duke 125 and RC 125 are the two basic or entry level sportsbike from Austrian makers. Earlier Duke 200 and RC 200 were the two such models and now KTM has expanded their line-up by introducing these two models. The likes of light-engined motorcycles in South East Asian countries has made the makers to develop a sportsbike in this segment.

Engine

RC 125 and Duke 125 is powered by the same 124.7cc, single cylinder, liquid-cooled engine with twin overhead camshafts, four valves and electronic fuel injection. Unlike typical 5 speed gearbox, it uses 6-speed constant mesh gearbox and delivers optimum power to rear wheels using a chain drive. The mill churns out a maximum power of 15 bhp, which is pretty good for 125cc bike. The followers are coated with ultra hard carbon, which provides reliability and longevity, despite engine's high power output. No bike makers has never developed a sportsbike with commuter range of engine. Both these models features Euro-4 compliant engine along with a balancer shaft for stiff and smooth operation.

Design, Styling and Features

The latest Duke 125 adopts the basic design structure from the flagship model 1290 Super Duke. First thing you will notice is the new LED headlight with new predatory stance looks. The large fuel tank has some extended-sharp cowls to enhance its ferocious looks. Duke 125 features new TFT display.

Meanwhile in RC 125, the basic structure is similar to RC 200 and 390. Twin pod headlight, thin tail with pillion seat on top, advanced design windshield to enhance aerodynamics, clip on handlebars with smart switches and integrated blinkers are the add on features of RC 125. KTM has used a new bodywork along with the positioning of pedals and footrests which provides a unique supersport look but also help the RC to master extreme cornering with more leaning angle. Instrument console features LCD display.

Chassis, Suspension and Braking

Duke 125 is built around lightweight steel trellis frame, which helps the bike into a real surfer through bends and corners. Like the new 390 and 250 Duke, the whole mass of the bike is grouped close to the center of gravity to maximize maneuverability and precision. A high quality USD fork from WP suspension is used upfront for the suspension duties, which uses the latest open-catridge technology. The die-cast swingarm is designed and produced according to the same standards and principles as of the 390 and 690 R. it is directly linked with WP shock absorber excels in extreme torsional stifness and outstanding tracking stability. Braking force lies within the hands of 4-piston, 300mm radially bolted disc brakes. 2 -channel Bosch ABS system adds the finishing touch of it.



Visually, the chassis of RC is similar to the lightweight and approved Duke steel trellis frame, but it has been modified to better fit the supersport ergonomics and dynamics. The shorter wheelbase and increased ground clearance other two important feature of the RC 125. It too features high quality upside-down fork from WP suspension upfront. The rear part consists of light alloy swingarm with directly linked WP shock absorber for highest levels of stability and precision. By joining hands with Brembo, KTM has developed a powerful and easy to control brake-system. 4-piston radially bolted calipers with a single cylinder 300mm disc at the front and 230mm single cylinder at the rear completes the stopping force of the bike. ABS system is used as a standard equipment in this bike.

Afterall, both these KTM could be the first 125cc sportbike in India, if it is launched. KTM has indulged all the racing dynamics in this model, without considering the fact that it is a 125cc motorbike.