KTM RC 125 vs Yamaha YZF-R15 V3.0: Spec Comparison

  • Published June 19, 2019
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Which supersport makes the best case for itself?
KTM RC 125 vs Yamaha YZF-R15 V3.0: Spec Comparison

With the launch of the new KTM RC 125, there is finally some much-needed competition for the age-old favourite small superbike from Yamaha, the R15. In its latest avatar, the R15 is sharper and racier than before. So does KTM’s baby RC have the capabilities to outscore the Yammie?

Engine & Performance:

 

KTM RC 125

Yamaha R15 v3.0

Specs

124.7cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled DOHC engine

155cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled DOHC engine with VVA

Power

14.5PS @ 9250rpm

19.3PS @ 10,000rpm

Torque

12Nm @ 8000rpm

14.8Nm @ 8500rpm

Slipper Clutch

No

Yes

As far as learner machines go, the KTM is the ace in the European market. However, here in India, the RC 125 feels like it is on the losing side as the Yamaha simply offers more. More cubic capacity, more power and more torque. The new 155cc powerplant is also a lot more usable than its predecessor thanks to the presence of Variable Valve Actuation (VVA). The addition of this tech allows for strong low and mid-range grunt without sacrificing top-end performance.

KTM RC 125 vs Yamaha YZF-R15 V3.0: Spec Comparison

Components and Dimensions:

 

KTM RC 125

Yamaha R15 v3.0

Chassis

Tubular steel trellis frame

Deltabox chassis

Front suspension

43mm WP USD

41mm conventional forks

Rear suspension

10-step adjustable monoshock with a die-cast aluminium swingarm

Link-type preload adjustable monoshock with a die-cast aluminium swingarm

Brakes

F: 300mm disc with four-pot Bybre radial caliper

R: 230mm disc with single-piston Bybre caliper

F: 282mm disc with twin-piston caliper

R: 220mm with single-piston caliper

ABS system

Bosch single-channel ABS unit

Dual-channel ABS unit

Wheels

F: 110/70 R17

R: 150/70 R17

F: 100/80 - 17

R: 140/70 - 17

Tyres

MRF Revz radials

MRF Nylogrip Zapper bias-ply (Optional rear Metzeler Sportec M5)

Here’s where the KTM shows its edge as the components on offer are far superior to the ones found on the Yamaha. The RC 125 borrows said components from the RC 200, and that gives the RC 125 the upper hand when it comes to the suspension units and wheel assemblies used. However, both motorcycles bear very different chassis, both of which are supremely capable.

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KTM RC 125

Yamaha R15 v3.0

Wheelbase

1341mm

1325mm

Weight

154.2kg (dry)

142kg (kerb)

Rake

23.5-deg

25.5-deg

Trail

NA

88mm

Seat height

835mm

815mm

Fuel tank capacity

9.5-litre

12-litre

Ground clearance

157mm

170mm

The dimensions again tip the scales in favour of the R15. It's got a shorter wheelbase, weighs less and is more practical. We figure that the riding posture on the R15 will be a lot more accommodating for larger riders.

Verdict:
There are very few points that the KTM manages to outshine the Yamaha on. One could still make a case for it had it been at the same price or lower than the R15. However at Rs 1.47 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), the KTM RC 125 is Rs 7,000 more expensive than the Yamaha R15. And expect this figure to rise in the coming months as it is just an introductory offer.

KTM RC 125 (2019-2021) Video Review

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