Austrian bike manufacturer, KTM recently showcased a trio of its sports motorbikes at the 71st EICMA (Milan Motorcycle Show). At this exhibition, KTM unveiled its RC 125, RC 390 and RC 200 models that are based on Duke 125, 200 and 390 series of bikes. The design of these low-specification KTM bikes looks almost similar to each other. With the addition of dual headlights and rear view mirrors, the RC bikes are ideal for track riding. Interestingly, the much awaited KTM RC 200 bike is expected to arrive in the Indian market soon.
Of the three RC models showcased at the EICMA, the fully faired sports bike KTM RC 200 is based on the Duke 200 version. Reportedly, RC 200's frontal portion is moulded in the shape of a nose that holds the twin headlights, whereas the rear view mirrors fixed on the fairing are integrated with blinkers. To add to the style of the bikes, KTM has given a high windshield, light chassis, clip-on handle bars and the traditional orange trellis frame that further gives style and comfort to riders. On taking a look at the bike, it can said that the big tank at the rear has been given by the company to focus making this bike a tour friendly vehicle for its customers.
Furthermore, RC 200 has ergonomically designed features that include a high seating position that allows the rider to lean in front and thus lending a sporty riding look. It must be said that KTM has made an extra effort to reduce the suspension system by 25 mm, so that RC 200 makes a perfect grip on the racing track. In addition to this, the rising LED tail lights on the rear is inspired from RC8 model. Moreover, the RC 200 technical specifications are not available as of now but it will be revealed at a later stage.
According to the reports, KTM and Bajaj are planning to launch this bike in India at the 2014 Auto Expo. Although the price of the bike is still not disclosed by the company, industry experts say that it will be priced accordingly to its rivals like Yamaha YZF-R15 V2.0 and Honda CBR 250R. Reportedly, RC 200 will be manufactured in Pune at the Chakan facility of Bajaj, indicating that Indian buyers can expect this sports bike within an affordable price range.
In terms of assembling the parts, the KTM-Bajaj alliance is expected to share design in RC 200 and RC 390, in order to minimize the production cost. However, this practice would not be new for both the companies, as reports cite that they previously adopted this strategy while making Duke 200 and 390 models. it must be noted that the maximum speed of RC 200 is more than its sibling Duke 125, which will hence, optimise the on-track riding for bikers. Equipped with a 6-speed transmission system, RC200 has a single cylinder with 4-stroke liquid cooled engine having 200 cc displacement. The peak output generated by this engine equals to 25 bhp. For an added level of safety, KTM has given Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) in RC 200.
