KTM RC 125 vs Yamaha R15 V3.0: Spec Comparison

How does KTM’s entry-level supersport fare against the Yamaha R15 V3.0?

The Yamaha R15 V3.0 enjoyed a free reign in the entry-level performance segment until the KTM 125 Duke came along. And now, KTM intends to target a larger chunk of this market with the launch of the RC 125. That said, the latest iteration of the R15 still has a lot going for it. So will the KTM RC 125 hold its own or crumble against the titan in this segment? We pit them against each other on paper to find out.

Engine:

KTMs maybe the prefered beginners bike in the European markets. However, it’s the Yamaha R15 V3 that has proven to be the go-to bike here in India. Simply put, it trumps the KTM RC 125 in terms of displacement, power and torque. What the R15 also has going for it is its tractability, both in the city and out on the highway. Thanks to the addition of Variable Valve Timing, the engine has enough power throughout the rev range. Also, for better dynamics on the track, the Yamaha offering also gets slipper clutch. 

Underpinnings:

Premium components like upside-down forks, bigger disc brakes and radial tyres borrowed from the KTM RC 200 give the RC 125 a clear advantage here. However, the R15 V3.0 features dual-channel ABS as standard and an optional Metzeler Sportec M5 tyre at the rear, which should sway a couple of votes in its favour. Moreover, the chassis used on both bikes, although different, are extremely capable. 

Dimensions:

	KTM RC 125	Yamaha R15 v3.0
Wheelbase	1341mm	1325mm
Weight	154.2kg (kerb)	142kg (kerb)
Rake	23.5-deg	25.5-deg
Trail	NA	88mm
Seat height	835mm	815mm
Fuel tank capacity	9.5-litre	12-litre
Ground clearance	157mm	170mm

The KTM RC 125 is essentially an RC 200 with a smaller engine. Consequently, it gets the same committed riding posture as its elder sibling which isn’t apt for city use. While Yamaha R15 V3 is equally sporty, it’s more practical. It offers a softer seat, is easy on your wrists and has more room for plus sized riders. Besides this, it gets a shorter wheelbase and weighs less as well.  

Verdict:

The Yamaha R15 V.30 pretty much overshadows the KTM RC 125 on most aspects. In addition to this, the Japanese bike is the better value for money proposition here. To put things into perspective, the KTM 125 Duke, which costs Rs 1.47 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), is Rs 7,000 more expensive than its rival, produces less power, is less practical and misses out on a couple of features like LED headlights, a slipper clutch and a bigger fuel tank. Moreover, this price is expected to increase in the near future since its an introductory offer.