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The Yamaha R15 has established itself as a mainstay in the Indian motorcycle market, lauded for its sports bike chassis and liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine. This combination, coupled with years of refinements and stylish design, has solidified its popularity among riders seeking an affordable, high-performance machine. While the 18.4 PS power output at 10,000 rpm might appear modest, the R15’s chassis and suspension contribute to its track-ready handling, especially in the hands of skilled riders. Furthermore, the Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) system optimizes performance across the rev range. For those exploring alternatives, particularly streetfighter-style motorcycles, several compelling options exist.
The Yamaha MT-15, powered by a nearly identical liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 4-valve single-cylinder engine delivering 18.45 PS at 10,000 rpm and 14.1 Nm of torque at 7,500 rpm, offers similar performance to the R15 at a similar price. The Bajaj NS 160 presents another option, equipped with a 160.3 cc single-cylinder engine producing 17.03 bhp at 9,000 rpm and 14.6 Nm of torque at 7,250 rpm, managed by upside-down forks and a Nitrox monoshock. This model provides an attractive budget-friendly option for daily commutes. The TVS Apache RTR 160 4V is powered by a 159.7 cc single-cylinder engine paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox, delivering 17.31 bhp at 9,250 rpm and 14.73 Nm of torque at 7,250 rpm. The RTR 4V features telescopic front suspension and a monoshock at the rear. With multiple variants available, including options with single-disc and dual-disc ABS, the top-spec variant is competitively priced.
KTM is introducing a 160cc model, replacing its 125cc sports bikes. This new model appears to be based on the 200 Duke, with an engine expected to produce around 19 bhp. KTM may soon also reveal a new RC version of the bike. The comparison table provides a detailed specification overview, comparing the KTM Duke/RC 160, Yamaha R15, MT-05, Bajaj Pulsar NS160, Yamaha Fz/F1/V4 160, and TVS Apache RTR 160 4V across various parameters including engine type, performance figures, suspension setup, rider aids, and ex-showroom prices.
