KTM as a company started its racing journey in 1954. Ever Since, KTM has established itself as a sports bike company. KTM is recognized for its street naked, sports and adventure bikes. This company is deeply rooted into the motorsport tradition, thus, it specializes in building race-ready motorcycles for competitive and recreational riding. Duke is the most seen KTM model in the streets of Nepal. Along with the street naked models, KTM has a range of RC sports bikes. The revised version of the RC 200 has just entered the nepali market which has paved a different road for KTM. RC200 represents the entry level sports motorcycle and directly targets the enthusiasts and youths of up and coming nations like nepal.
BODY OVERVIEW:
The bike’s entire body has been completely remodeled to a race-inspired design. Its body structure uses a class-leading wind protection and to optimize higher top speed Computational Flow Dynamics simulations have been used. A simple definition to this would be the use of advanced mathematics and computer simulation incorporating the laws of physics to determine performance through various racing conditions. The overall design is very rider centric and provides maximum contact with the bike for optimum control on the road. RC200’s graphics and bodywork is heavily inspired by the MOTOGP and heavily resembles the KTM RC16 with its sporty riding position. The front section of the bike elevating wind protection has an aerodynamics screen with all-new LED DRL(Daytime Running Lights) Twin Projector Headlamp and Larger WindShield Bubble along with LED Indicators lights. The new foldable mirrors are wider giving a broader visual range and more sharp to improve aerodynamics. The foldable mirrors bhako makes the bike more practical because the bike can fit its body through tight spaces. Another improvement is the adjustable handlebar that is made efficient for both track and street, but is inclined towards a track-oriented position. This bike only supports electric starting methods. The RC200 also has the wee-reknowned KTM Multi-information Digital Instrument Console that displays a clock, trip meter, odometer, distance to empty and other interesting features. The elevated rider and pillion seats are the major highlight of the bike’s rear section. These seats are thicker and more comfortable and are made of a water resistant material. Prioritizing comfort the bike has not given up on performance and features. The new ergonomic aluminum grab handles make the seats a complete package for both the rider and the one sitting behind. Like all the other lighting fixtures on the bike, the tail lamps are LED too. To complement its sporty riding mode, the footpegs are firmly placed in the corner. Footlevers make the bike stay undisturbed and also prevents unwanted breakage in case of a fall over. RC200 has a new and larger 13.7 liter fuel tank, inspired by the KTM moto3, which makes it have a longer travel range compared to other sports bikes. And unlike other KTM models, RC200 can be seen with an underbelly exhaust.
ENGINE AND PERFORMANCE:
It gets the same 199.5cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine with BS6 emission norms. Thus, it continues to produce a maximum power of 25 PS @ 10000 rpm and a peak torque of 19.5 Nm @ 8000 rpm. Although the power and torque figures remain unchanged, it has a 40% larger air box installed in it. This has significantly increased the bike’s responsiveness. It also comes with BOSCH fuel injection technology, making this bike fuel efficient, economic as well as digitally intelligent. In addition, this new model has a curved radiator which provides better cooling, improved airflow and optimal performance temperature. The motor is paired with a six-speed gearbox along with the Wet Multi Disc Clutch similar to the Benelli 180S. This feature supports a sports bike like RC200 with massive acceleration. Its top speed is 142 kmph. Even though the fuel tank is larger than its previous models, its average mileage is approximately 35 kmpl. RC200 could beat any other entry level sports bike if the mileage was improved similarly to its fuel tank volume. Regardless of this fact, the bike can perform like a beast as it races from 0 to 100km in just 9.92 seconds.
SPECIFICATIONS
The bikes framework is ultra-light, saving almost 1.5kg from its kerb weight which now is 151kgs. The frame is a split-trellis frame that ultimately provides high-speed stability and a rider feel. Its suspension system is a WP APEX big piston, upside down front fork and rear section is a WP APEX shock absorber. This combination along with its revised settings gives out a more improved sportier ride feel. The brakes are equipped with 4 piston fixed caliper 320mm front disc brakes and one piston fixed caliper 230mm rear disc brakes. It does come with dual-channel ABS and most importantly the bike comes with a Supermoto ABS. This feature is able to disengage the ABS braking function of the bikes rear end. This mode gives the rider a hard braking freedom without compromising on safety which helps the rider to apply more brake pressure when cornering or trail braking. Other improvements include, 17 inch lighter and stronger alloy tubeless wheels which have better and improved handling characteristics. Its ground clearance is 158mm and the wheelbase is 1341mm which can adjust to both race track and street rides.
CONCLUSION:
This street beast with Race track DNA is a complete package of power, graphics, style, energy and more. Made specifically for racing and street, this bike is for the sporty riders and equally supports street rides as well. It is priced at Rs. 6,47,900 which is on the more premium and expensive side. Service charges and maintenance cost are on the acceptable level, making it better than other available options in the market. RC200 is available in Dark Galvano and Silver Metallic color variants. KTM RC200 is specifically made for a racer enthusiast and is filled with almost all the features that a racing giant requires.