If you are in the market for a budget-friendly fully-faired motorcycle then you are spoiled for choice. But if you want an exciting sports bike with premium hardware and are willing to spend more then you always have KTM ‘s RC range to consider. The new RC range was launched in India a few months ago and is significantly different from the previous generation. Now, the RC 125, even though a capable bike, seems slightly expensive while the RC 390 is due for a replacement and may seem a bit difficult for some riders to manage. The RC 200, on the other hand, hits the sweet spot with exciting but tameable performance and aggressive pricing — ₹2.09 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). Here are the top five reasons why you can consider the new RC 200 as your next sports bike.

The old RC 200 had the signature twin-barrel headlamp and looked aggressive. The new model, however, is inspired by the brand’s MotoGP race machine. This is reflected by the aggressive design of the fairing that not only makes the bike look bigger than before but also offers optimized wind and weather protection along with enhanced heat management. The addition of LED headlight with LED DRLs also offers adequate illumination in dark.

The new KTM RC 200 is underpinned by a new steel trellis frame with a bolt-on subframe that is 1.5 kg lighter than the predecessor’s frame. This, along with lighter wheels, make the new RC 200 more agile than before, helping you attack that corner with more confidence. The adjustable handlebars (by 14.5 mm) allow the rider to find a comfortable position while a large 13.7-litre fuel tank means fewer trips to the fuel station. 

2021 KTM RC 200 comes with a 199.5 cc liquid-cooled unit that churns out 25 bhp with 19 Nm. This powerplant is coupled to a six-speed transmission, making for a refined riding experience. 

Hardware has always been KTM RC 200’s strength and the new-gen model builds upon that trait. The bike comes with 43 mm WP Apex big piston inverted forks with increased 10 mm front wheel travel and mono-shock for a comfortable ride even over bumpy roads. The braking duties, on the other hand, are taken care of by 320 mm front and 230 mm rear disc brakes. 

KTM RC 200 comes with dual-channel ABS as standard, which is not a standout feature in the segment. However, this is Supermoto ABS which means riders can deactivate ABS functionality on the rear wheel for a more spirited riding experience or when you want to slide the rear into a corner.