2025 TVS Apache RTR 160 4V vs KTM 160 Duke: Which Is The Best-looking 160cc Bike

The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V has got a new top-end variant with the 2025 update, and it has now become a lot more feature-packed. This variant goes up against the KTM 160 Duke, which was also recently launched. So how do both bikes compare? In this image comparison we go over the differences via detailed images to give you a clear verdict.

Design

The TFT variant of the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V has an aggressive look with the LED projector headlight and a sharp-looking headlight section. The bike gets a gold-finished inverted fork which looks quite premium as well. To top it all off, the fuel tank has an offset fuel filler cap that looks quite sporty.

The KTM sticks to the tried and tested design formula, which we have seen on the 200 Duke. The inspiration from the higher capacity Duke 790 is quite visible, and makes the bike feel like a higher capacity offering. Although the bike doesn’t get the same kind of premium-looking features like the Apache RTR 160 4V, the Duke still manages to shine in its own way. 

Its orange trellis frame and the raised tail section make the 160 Duke feel a bit more aggressive than the Apache. This is something customers who are looking for a more sporty-looking streetfighter will appreciate. That said, the Apache’s pillion seat should be more accessible and comfortable. 

Engine 

There’s a substantial difference in terms of power and performance between the two motorcycles. The Apache RTR 160 4V is powered by a 159.7cc, air and oil-cooled, single-cylinder motor producing 17.55PS and 14.73Nm. Whereas, the KTM 160 Duke is powered by a 164.2cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder motor which is the most powerful in this segment. It produces 19PS and 15.5Nm. That’s a bump of 1.45PS and 0.27Nm over the Apache. 

Visually, the KTM’s engine looks more modern, whereas the Apache’s looks rather conventional with its air-cooling fins. While it’s not fair to judge a bike’s performance based on how its engine looks, the one on the Duke looks sportier than the Apache. 

Underpinnings

The KTM 160 Duke has lightweight alloy wheels, and the front disc is mounted directly on the wheel instead of the hub, just like the 390 Duke. The lighter alloys should help make the 160 Duke’s handling. The bike’s swingarm is also similar to the bigger Duke. All these things combined give the 160 Duke a premium appeal. 

The Apache RTR 160 4V gets petal discs at both ends, which look quite sporty. These are claimed to offer better heat dissipation, as compared to a regular disc. It has a regular, box-type swingarm which doesn’t look as sporty as the Duke. However, it has a gold-coloured inverted fork, which gives it a premium look.

Features

The  TVS Apache RTR 160 4V has an edge over the 160 Duke when it comes to features. It gets a 5-inch TFT console which looks similar to the one offered on the Apache RTR 310. It has turn-by-turn navigation and call/SMS alerts. The bike also gets a lot more riding aids on offer, including 4 riding modes and a traction control system as well. The riding modes modulate the level of power and performance as well as  ABS intervention. This makes it easier for riders to tune down the performance while riding in the rain or slippery conditions.

The KTM 160 Duke is a lot more basic in comparison. It has a simple LCD console. However, it also gets smartphone connectivity for turn-by-turn navigation, call/SMS alerts, and music controls. But it doesn’t get any electronic riding aids except for switchable ABS. Though, it won’t make that much of a difference on the riding experience and might only appeal to riders who want to get into stunt riding.

Price & Verdict

Both bikes have a significant difference in terms of pricing, and here’s a detailed breakdown: 

* These prices are inclusive of the new GST rates, which come into effect from September 22, 2025.

That’s a significant price difference between the two bikes. Despite being the most affordable of the two, the Apache has a lot of features, but a slightly lower performance on paper. It looks quite good and should appeal to budget-conscious buyers. 

It is hard to deny that the KTM 160 Duke has a sportier look and feel, along with slightly better performance. If you are someone who is ready to pay a premium of Rs 34,120 for better looks and slightly sportier performance, then the KTM 160 Duke is an option worth considering.

All said, we advise test riding both bikes to see which one makes better sense for you.