2021 KTM RC 200: Old Vs New

KTM has launched the heavily updated 2021 RC 200 in India with an aim to reenter the entry-level sport bike segment. But how much of a leap is the 2021 RC 200 compared to the older model? Here’s the answer:

All-new Design

Since its first-ever unveiling in 2014, the KTM RC 200 has bore the same twin-projector equipped design. For 2021, though, it finally sheds its old skin and slips into a sharper attire. Starting from the front, the RC 200 gets a new all-LED headlamp coupled with sleek LED DRLs and a wide visor. Complementing this, you get slimmer bodywork on the sides, which is claimed to channel hot air away from the rider’s legs and it’s aided by a new curved radiator. All this is topped off by lighter 5-spoke alloy wheels. 

Looks are pretty subjective, but we feel the front half of the new RC 200 isn’t quite proportionate with the minimalistic, striking tail section. 

Revised Ergonomics

The RC 200 has never been a comfortable, everyday motorcycle. But for the segment that it caters to (newer riders), comfort is one of the key factors. After all, most of these new riders would ideally use this for their college commute or weekend rides, rather than full-blown track attacks.

So, for 2021, KTM has made the RC 200 more comfortable. This is achieved by adjustable clip-ons, a bigger, reshaped 13.7-litre fuel tank, and revised split seats (at the same height) with better cushioning. Basically, the clip-ons are set higher up for a relaxed riding posture, but they can be lowered by 15mm if someone wants to hit the track. For a premium touch, the seats come wrapped in Alcantara-type seat covers. 

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Finally, New Features!

Like the design, the KTM RC 200 has always carried forward the same LCD instrument cluster from 2014. But now, the Austrian giant has finally updated the features. While you still get an LCD instrument cluster, the 2021 model has a bigger and crisper unit, compared to the small orange-backlit unit from the outgoing model. Oh, and, there’s a Supermoto ABS mode too, which basically lets you skid around by disengaging the rear ABS.

Better Underpinnings

There wasn’t much to complain about the outgoing RC 200’s underpinnings. The trellis frame, the beefy 43mm fork, and the 300mm disc brake up front, all worked quite well together. But KTM clearly wanted more.

So, for 2021, the RC 200 gets a bolt-on subframe, a more premium 43mm WP Apex USD fork (with 10mm more travel), and lighter 320mm/230mm (F/R) disc brakes. All this is bound to make the RC 200 handle even sharper than before. The new RC 200 tips the scale at 151kg (dry) while having a ground clearance of 158mm, 5mm more than before. 

Engine Tweaks

Probably the most unchanged aspect about the new RC 200 is its engine. It continues to draw power from a 199.5cc liquid-cooled engine, pumping out 25PS but 19.3Nm. It comes mated to the same six-speed gearbox.

While the output is unchanged, KTM claims the new RC 200 will have a crisper throttle response, thanks to a larger airbox and a new engine map.

Pricing

The new RC 200 goes on sale for Rs 2,08,717 (ex-showroom Delhi), which is just Rs 115 more than the outgoing model. But before you get excited, there are two caveats to note. One, this is an introductory price, meaning the RC will only get costlier from here on. And second, KTM has repeatedly hiked the prices of the previous RC 200 in the last few months, which has made it quite pricey for a 200cc bike. But these aside, the new 2021 RC 200 has certainly become a much better value for money product.