Yamaha YZF-R15 V3 vs 2021 KTM RC 200: Buy Or Hold?

The upcoming KTM RC 200 does have a lot to offer, but is it worth considering over the proven and more affordable R15? 

[UPDATE: KTM has launched the 2021 RC 125 and RC 200 in India from Rs 1.82 lakh (ex-showroom) onwards. For more details about availability, specifications and other details, read this story]

In the past couple of weeks, we’ve seen a bunch of spy shots of the 2021 KTM RC 200 but none of them compares to the official images leaked online that showcase the bike in its production form. The RC range has been through a gazillion updates, ranging from a design overhaul to feature additions and mechanical updates.

Goes without saying, all of this will cost you a pretty penny. And, with the current-gen RC 200 priced at Rs 2.08 lakh, does it really make sense to wait for the new RC? Or are you better off with the proven, more affordable Yamaha YZF-R15 V3?

Why Should You Go For The Yamaha YZF-R15 V3?

The RC’s design may look fresh, but it’s not to everyone’s taste. The R15 V3, on the other hand, just fits. The three-year-old design, which takes inspiration from the R1, still looks quite appealing. It gets a distinctive split-LED headlight and a front fascia that’s proportionate to the overall design, unlike the new RC.

On the feature front, you have LED lights at the front and back, an LCD with comprehensive readouts, and a slip and assist clutch. Then there’s the powertrain! The liquid-cooled 4-valve 155cc engine may not sound like much, but it’s one heck of an engine. It may be low on power and torque at 18.6PS and 14.1Nm, but it’s the way it delivers its power that’ll impress you the most. VVA (Variable Valve Actuation) allows the engine to run two different valve timings: better low and mid-range front and top-end performance. The result is exhilarating!

It’s also set up to be a proper track scorcher. Even though the hardware’s fairly simple compared to the RC 200, it handles like a dream. We’d even go as far as saying, the R15 requires an expert hand or at least some experience to get the most out of the bike. If you’re looking for an entry-level sports bike that’ll set your heart ablaze without breaking your bank, the R15 V3 makes a lot of sense. 

Why Should You Wait For 2021 KTM RC 200?

Looks aside, the 2021 RC 200 has a lot going for it. For starters, it’s roomier and more relaxed thanks to the new triple clamp and split seat setup. As a result, it’s expected to be less taxing on long hauls and a lot easier to ride compared to the demanding R15 V3.

That’s not to say that the RC won’t be a good handler. The revised subframe and new 5-spoke wheels help shave a couple of kilos and are likely to improve the bike’s handling. Components such as the USD fork, larger front disc mated to a radial caliper, and radial tyres at both ends make the bike feel more premium than the Yammie.

While the powertrain is likely to be the same 199.5cc liquid-cooled mill generating 25PS and 19Nm, it should extract a bit more power and torque. What supports this theory is the new radiator which seems to have a curved design for better airflow and what looks like twin cooling fans for better cooling, just like the ones on the Adventure range.

Then there’s the list of features. The 2021 RC comes with a new headlight design, possibly a halogen unit, just like the Adventure 250, and faring integrated turn indicators. Same goes for the LCD unit that’s likely to be borrowed from the smaller Adventure.

Our Suggestion: Go For The R15 V3:

At a starting price of Rs 1.54 lakh, the R15 V3 is Rs 54,000 cheaper than the current-gen RC 200. The 2021 RC 200 with its new look, better features, and premium hardware is likely to cost more. That’s a lot of money if you ask us. Would it be significantly different from the R15 in terms of riding dynamics? We highly doubt it but that can only be confirmed once we ride the bike.

For now, you’d be better off saving some money and using it to further improve the R15. Perhaps some engine and track mods?