2021 GPX Demon GR200R vs KTM RC 200: Photo Comparison

Can the Demon prey on India's top faired 200cc bike, the KTM RC 200?

The KTM RC 200 is currently the pinnacle of 200cc faired bikes in India in terms of sportiness and performance. Meanwhile, Thailand-based motorcycle manufacturer GPX has launched its Demon GR200R in Malaysia. At RM 11,388 (Rs 2.05 lakh) it costs just as much as the RC 200 in India (Rs 2,03,776 (ex-showroom). So, we thought it would be interesting to pitch them against each other to find out whether the RC 200 can take on the Demon. Here’s an image comparison between the two:

Aesthetically, it’s safe to say that neither of these bikes are mass-appealing though both look very sporty, especially for their cubic capacities. Both manufacturers have opted for a track-inspired design language.

Both bikes look unconventional from the front and take inspiration from bigger bikes. The RC 200 reminds us of its elder sibling, the RC 390, while the GR200R takes its design cues from the Yamaha YZF R1. But, the Demon has fairing-mounted split LED headlamps while the RC uses twin projector lamps. In addition to this, the GR has a small air intake up front that the RC misses out on. We’re yet to see whether this intake is functional or purely aesthetic.

Towards the middle, the 200R is more muscular and has broader fairings. The RC, though, takes on a minimalistic approach and looks narrower in comparison. The GR’s fuel tank looks bigger too and can hold 1 litre more than the RC’s 10-litre tank. Both bikes also tease their painted trellis frames (red on the GR and orange on the KTM), but the Austrian offering does a better job at it.

Both bikes have split seats and raised tail sections. While both are radical, we find the Demon’s split LED taillight more appealing as it reminds us of the Ducati Panigale V4. Full points to KTM, though, for the neatly integrated pillion seat and grab handles.

Another aspect that we like about the GR200R is its muscular blacked out exhaust that adds to its big bike persona.

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Feature-wise, both bikes get a digital instrument cluster, ABS, LED taillight and indicators. But, the Demon gets a LED headlamp and instrumentation that the RC misses out on. 

The Demon is powered by a 198cc, single-cylinder motor that puts out 19.2PS and 17Nm. This is a whole 6PS and 2Nm less than the RC 200’s 199.5cc, single-cylinder heart. GPX claims that the 200R has a top speed of 140kmph. Both engines are mated to a 6-speed gearbox.

The bikes are closely matched in terms of underpinnings. Both feature a trellis frame sprung on a USD fork and a preload-adjustable monoshock. For stopping duties, both bikes get single discs at both ends. But the KTM gets bigger discs (300mm and 230mm) in comparison to the Demon (276mm and 220mm).

Taking import duties into consideration, the RC 200 would be the more feasible choice than the GPX, if the latter were to arrive in India. The RC 200 is also bound to be updated for 2021 with fresh styling and better components. Watch this space for all the latest updates on that.