KTM RC 200 Undergoes A Seismic Change

KTM’s highly focused RC series of bikes has stayed true to its original self for six years. It was bound for an update and it was no secret KTM was working on a new design language for its small-capacity supersports. We saw the first signs of the new RC style a little over a year ago and now, the production of the updated RC 200 has begun.

The most notable change here is the inclusion of the same LED DRL-equipped halogen headlamp that one finds on the 125 and 200 Dukes as well as the 250 Adventure. We guess this is likely to be the case with the RC 125 as well with the RC 390 getting the triple-stacked LED headlight from the 390 Duke. The turn indicators on the new RC 200 are integrated into the flared face and are no longer on the mirrors.

It is very hard to spot any changes to the main trellis frame but from the looks of it, the RC 200 (and the other RCs as well) will run with a bolted-on subframe like the Dukes and the Adventures. This will see a revision in rider’s ergonomics. Another interesting bit is the new pillion seat. It will not be the lovely sporty race-cowl-shaped unit, but rather a traditional split seat option like most faired bikes.

Lastly, the alloy wheels are also running a new five-spoke design with the disc now mounted on each one of the five spokes, rather than on the hub. This revision might have been done to make the wheels lighter, which, in turn, aid in reducing the gyroscopic effect and making the RC even sharper to turn in.

No changes will be made to the 199cc powerplant that puts out 25PS and 19Nm. What could appear on the new RC is the revised LCD console from the 250 Adventure and perhaps, even a larger 320mm front rotor for better braking stability. We will have to wait until the first couple of months of 2021 for all the details of the new supersport.

Image credit: Rushlane