The 125 CC category of motorcycles is one of the most popular choices for Indians. They are fuel-efficient and perfectly designed for the challenges of Indian roads.
Taking note of this trend, KTM, the motorcycle manufacturer from Austria, chose to launch the KTM RC 125. It falls in the compact sports bike category. In this article, we will discover whether the bike is the right choice.
The RC 125 is the most affordable true-bred compact sports bike in India
At first, the decision of KTM India to ask for Rs 2,23,599 (ex-showroom) for a 125 CC motorcycle might seem absurd. But the bike stands out from its competitors in different aspects. The following characteristics of the KTM bike justify the fact:
Amazing looks
The overall looks of the RC 125 are heavily inspired by the KTM RC8 supersport. It flaunts a bubble-type visor, revised fairing and a redesigned fuel tank. The motorcycle comes equipped with a single halogen-bulb-equipped headlamp unit. The front turn indicators are integrated into the front fairing of the bike.
An engine that is tuned for the tracks and the streets
The RC 125 is powered by a 124 CC, BS6-phase-2-compliant, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, single-cylinder unit. The engine’s peak power and torque outputs are 14.75 bhp and 12 Nm, respectively. The engine is mated to a 6-speed transmission that transfers power through a wet multi-plate clutch. The engine is paired with a large air intake that helps it to make impressive low-RPM torque. The redesigned radiator unit is now equipped with two heavy-duty fans.
Hardware that compels rival brands to think twice
The RC 125 entails a single but fully loaded trim. The bike rides on WP (APEX) series suspensions and has an LCD instrument cluster. KTM also equipped the bike with dual disc brakes with dual-channel switchable ABS. These are pretty impressive hardware for a 125 CC motorcycle, to be honest.
The RC 125 handles like a true compact sports bike
The RC 125 has been extensively tested on tracks and Indian streets. The company has a rich history of being one of the veteran motorcycle manufacturing brands. Hence, it is natural for the RC 125 to handle like a charm on both straight lines and curves.
The motorcycle is perfect for everyday city commutes. Overtaking traffic on the highways is effortless as well. The low dry weight of the bike also allows one to keep cool when stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic.
The motorcycle has been designed to keep riders comfortable
The KTM RC 125 is undoubtedly a compact sports bike. Hence, it is natural for the bike to come with a riding triangle that keeps the rider in an aggressive stance. An aggressive stance offers a rider more command over a motorcycle. Furthermore, an aggressive stance also enables the rider to reduce the air resistance exerted on the bike and the rider. Reduction of air resistance becomes an important factor as it helps to ease the strain exerted on the engine.
An engine that effortlessly accelerates a motorcycle would consume less fuel. All of this is good news, but an aggressive riding stance can hurt a rider’s spine after riding for more than two hours. KTM understood this. This is the reason why the RC 125 comes with an adjustable handlebar and comfortable seats. Furthermore, the suspensions of the bike are set on the medium setting to enhance the comfort factor of the bike.