🌜 Ktm Rc 200 Test Ride

The 2022 KTM RC 200 costs the same as the previous modelShot by Avdhoot A Kolhe for evo IndiaThe KTM RC range of motorcycles has always been one of the most committed, track-focused bikes you could get on a budget. I mean think about it, you got a very similar chassis package to what you would get on the Moto3 spec KTM bikes. But what was its biggest strength – posting blisteringly fast times on the track was also its biggest downfall. It was way too aggressive for the streets. The people who would buy an RC were trading off any semblance of comfort for that level of performance. Apart from this, the bike hasn’t gotten any significant updates since its launch. That is until KTM announced the 2022 RC range with slightly more relaxed ergonomics aimed to make the bike a better street bike while retaining the track-focused nature we all know and love. For India, KTM has launched the RC 125 and the RC 200 first and we got a chance to sample the RC 200 at Bajaj’s Chakan test track to figure out if the changes have translated to a better street bike. 2022 KTM RC 200 designThe 2022 KTM RC 200 is pretty much all-new in terms of design. Starting with the front, it gets an all-new headlamp set up, one that makes the bike resemble the original RC8. The India-spec model gets an LED unit unlike the projector units available on the international models. These headlamps are flanked by integrated DRLs, which mean that these light strips function as DRLs and turn signals. I can’t comment on the performance of the lights considering we rode the bike in bright daylight but more on that when we do a proper road test. Then there is the new windscreen which is larger and taller and does a good job of reducing wind buffeting. Continuing on the same theme there’s also an all-new fairing that has been designed for better aerodynamics and to improve cool airflow for the 2022 KTM RC 200 has an all-new front end designShot by Avdhoot A Kolhe for evo IndiaMoving one step behind there’s the new fuel tank which has gone up in capacity from litres to litres. Even the battery which was placed behind the triple tree clamp has now been repositioned behind the fuel tank to improve serviceability. After this, there’s the new split seat setup. The seat has a new double foam padding and right of the bat, the seat is plusher and more comfortable as compared to the outgoing bike. The added thickness has not changed the 835mm seat height and in fact, it is now easier to reach the ground because the section under the seat is considerably narrower courtesy of the new split trellis frame design. The rear section of the 2022 RC 200 is also new with a new grabrail design and shrouds that cover the familiar strip LED tail light. Apart from this, the bike also gets new, lighter wheels and a larger front brake rotor. In terms of equipment, the 2022 KTM RC 200 comes with the same amount of kit as earlier but this time around with a new LCD screen identical to the one found on the KTM 250 KTM RC 200 ride and handlingThis department is where the RC 200 has seen the most changes. Weight savings has been one of the key areas of focus while developing the 2022 bike. Instead of trying to reduce the kerb weight of the bike it is identical to the identical model at 160kg, KTM has tackled and reduced the unsprung mass of the motorcycle with lighter wheels and sprockets. The wheels which now have hollow hubs are lighter than the outgoing motorcycle. Apart from this, the Austrian marquee has also managed to shed another with the use of a lighter and bigger 320mm brake rotor which is now directly mounted on the rim via the spokes. And this has translated to a bike that is much quicker to change direction. The bike is extremely flickable and changes direction with little effort and that is saying something considering the old bike was no slouch, to begin with. KTM also claims that the new split trellis frame weighs the same as the single unit on the older bike and that they have managed to do so by improving their engineering reduced unsprung mass has translated to bike that changes direction much fasterShot by Avdhoot A Kolhe for evo IndiaThe next big change is the raised clip-ons. The clip-ons are now higher than before and pushed slightly towards the rider. This in addition to the comfier seat now means that the RC 200 is a much more comfortable bike than its predecessor and not at the cost of handling. The bike retains most of its sharp handling without breaking your back and that in my books is a definite win. However, should you choose to lower the handlebar back to how it was on the previous bike, you can do so. Braking performance was sharp as well with good amounts of feedback and bit and a non-intrusive ABS system. There’s also the Supermoto ABS mode in case you want to let the rear step out just a little bit while tackling those apexes hard. The suspension setup is identical to the previous generation but KTM has managed to extract 10mm of travel from the front forks. The setup seemed extremely at home at the well-paved test track. How they will fare on the road remains to be KTM RC 200 performanceThe 2022 KTM RC 200 uses the same engine setup as the previous bike. Meaning, it is the same single-cylinder, high-compression BS6 engine that puts out a respectable at 10,000rpm and 19Nm at 8000rpm. However, what’s new is a forty per cent larger airbox and KTM claims that this has made the torque curve richer and wider especially through the midrange. And to KTM’s credit, they have managed to make the mid-range more potent. You get much better drive out of the corner even if you have dropped below the powerband and this wasn’t the case with the older bike. There’s also a new curved radiator with ten per cent more surface area. And in the short stint that I had with the bike, the radiator fan kicked on only twice when moving the bike around for the photographer. But then again that is not a proper indicator of how the bike will perform in the real world so more on that when we do a full road test of the 2022 KTM RC engine is identical to the one found on the previous bikeShot by Avdhoot A Kolhe for evo India2022 KTM RC 200 verdictThe 2022 update to the KTM RC 200 has been long overdue and the old design was starting to seem a bit long in the tooth. The new bike has been in the making for a while and I feel the wait has been worth it. Not only is the bike a lot more comfortable to live with on the daily basis, it still remains an extremely competent package to set the racetrack on fire with. It gets a comfier seat, a larger fuel tank and the reduction of the unsprung mass has made it a much easier bike for anyone to ride hard and fast, no matter the setting. All this plus the fact that KTM has launched the bike at the same ex-showroom price of Rs lakh as the outgoing model should see the 2022 RC 200 attract a wide audience. And a wide audience it definitely deserves.

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The 2022 KTM RC 200 costs the same as the previous modelShot by Avdhoot A Kolhe for Fast Bikes IndiaThe KTM RC range of motorcycles has always been one of the most committed, track-focused bikes you could get on a budget. I mean think about it, you got a very similar chassis package to what you would get on the Moto3 spec KTM bikes. But what was its biggest strength – posting blisteringly fast times on the track was also its biggest downfall. It was way too aggressive for the streets. The people who would buy an RC were trading off any semblance of comfort for that level of performance. Apart from this, the bike hasn’t gotten any significant updates since its launch. That is until KTM announced the 2022 RC range with slightly more relaxed ergonomics aimed to make the bike a better street bike while retaining the track-focused nature we all know and love. For India, KTM has launched the RC 125 and the RC 200 first and we got a chance to sample the RC 200 at Bajaj’s Chakan test track to figure out if the changes have translated to a better street bike. 2022 KTM RC 200 designThe 2022 KTM RC 200 is pretty much all-new in terms of design. Starting with the front, it gets an all-new headlamp set up, one that makes the bike resemble the original RC8. The India-spec model gets an LED unit unlike the projector units available on the international models. These headlamps are flanked by integrated DRLs, which mean that these light strips function as DRLs and turn signals. I can’t comment on the performance of the lights considering we rode the bike in bright daylight but more on that when we do a proper road test. Then there is the new windscreen which is larger and taller and does a good job of reducing wind buffeting. Continuing on the same theme there’s also an all-new fairing that has been designed for better aerodynamics and to improve cool airflow for the 2022 KTM RC 200 has an all-new front end designShot by Avdhoot A Kolhe for Fast Bikes IndiaMoving one step behind there’s the new fuel tank which has gone up in capacity from litres to litres. Even the battery which was placed behind the triple tree clamp has now been repositioned behind the fuel tank to improve serviceability. After this, there’s the new split seat setup. The seat has a new double foam padding and right of the bat, the seat is plusher and more comfortable as compared to the outgoing bike. The added thickness has not changed the 835mm seat height and in fact, it is now easier to reach the ground because the section under the seat is considerably narrower courtesy of the new split trellis frame design. The rear section of the 2022 RC 200 is also new with a new grabrail design and shrouds that cover the familiar strip LED tail light. Apart from this, the bike also gets new, lighter wheels and a larger front brake rotor. In terms of equipment, the 2022 KTM RC 200 comes with the same amount of kit as earlier but this time around with a new LCD screen identical to the one found on the KTM 250 KTM RC 200 ride and handlingThis department is where the RC 200 has seen the most changes. Weight savings has been one of the key areas of focus while developing the 2022 bike. Instead of trying to reduce the kerb weight of the bike it is identical to the identical model at 160kg, KTM has tackled and reduced the unsprung mass of the motorcycle with lighter wheels and sprockets. The wheels which now have hollow hubs are lighter than the outgoing motorcycle. Apart from this, the Austrian marquee has also managed to shed another with the use of a lighter and bigger 320mm brake rotor which is now directly mounted on the rim via the spokes. And this has translated to a bike that is much quicker to change direction. The bike is extremely flickable and changes direction with little effort and that is saying something considering the old bike was no slouch, to begin with. KTM also claims that the new split trellis frame weighs the same as the single unit on the older bike and that they have managed to do so by improving their engineering reduced unsprung mass has translated to bike that changes direction much fasterShot by Avdhoot A Kolhe for Fast Bikes IndiaThe next big change is the raised clip-ons. The clip-ons are now higher than before and pushed slightly towards the rider. This in addition to the comfier seat now means that the RC 200 is a much more comfortable bike than its predecessor and not at the cost of handling. The bike retains most of its sharp handling without breaking your back and that in my books is a definite win. However, should you choose to lower the handlebar back to how it was on the previous bike, you can do so. Braking performance was sharp as well with good amounts of feedback and bit and a non-intrusive ABS system. There’s also the Supermoto ABS mode in case you want to let the rear step out just a little bit while tackling those apexes hard. The suspension setup is identical to the previous generation but KTM has managed to extract 10mm of travel from the front forks. The setup seemed extremely at home at the well-paved test track. How they will fare on the road remains to be KTM RC 200 performanceThe 2022 KTM RC 200 uses the same engine setup as the previous bike. Meaning, it is the same single-cylinder, high-compression BS6 engine that puts out a respectable at 10,000rpm and 19Nm at 8000rpm. However, what’s new is a forty per cent larger airbox and KTM claims that this has made the torque curve richer and wider especially through the midrange. And to KTM’s credit, they have managed to make the mid-range more potent. You get much better drive out of the corner even if you have dropped below the powerband and this wasn’t the case with the older bike. There’s also a new curved radiator with ten per cent more surface area. And in the short stint that I had with the bike, the radiator fan kicked on only twice when moving the bike around for the photographer. But then again that is not a proper indicator of how the bike will perform in the real world so more on that when we do a full road test of the 2022 KTM RC engine is identical to the one found on the previous bikeShot by Avdhoot A Kolhe for Fast Bikes India2022 KTM RC 200 verdictThe 2022 update to the KTM RC 200 has been long overdue and the old design was starting to seem a bit long in the tooth. The new bike has been in the making for a while and I feel the wait has been worth it. Not only is the bike a lot more comfortable to live with on the daily basis, it still remains an extremely competent package to set the racetrack on fire with. It gets a comfier seat, a larger fuel tank and the reduction of the unsprung mass has made it a much easier bike for anyone to ride hard and fast, no matter the setting. All this plus the fact that KTM has launched the bike at the same ex-showroom price of Rs lakh as the outgoing model should see the 2022 RC 200 attract a wide audience. And a wide audience it definitely deserves.

Well we got an opportunity only to ride on a test track. We'll tell you how practical the new RC200 is being a part of daily life as soon as we get the test bike for longer duration. Right now, at Rs 2.08 lakh (ex-showroom Pune), the new RC200 looks like a great deal. Photography by Kaustubh Gandhi KTM RC 200 199.5 cc 31 kmpl 25.4 bhp 160.6 kg ;

Introduction Pros Brisk acceleration, responsive handling, plush ride qualityCons Vibrations at high speeds, inconsistent front brake bite, lack of Bluetooth connectivity The KTM RC 200 has always been applauded for the engaging riding experience it delivers. Punchy acceleration and sharp handling have always been its forte. However, the previous generation model was deemed to be too frantic and uncomfortable to be used as a daily driver or even for long-distance riding. Well, that might not be the case anymore. KTM has launched the new-generation version of the RC 200 and all the changes it gets are focused on making it a more practical and versatile few days after its India launch, Bajaj invited us to ride the new RC 200 on its testing track and it felt better on almost all fronts. But the truth is most of the RC 200s will spend their lives in the city and on the highway and that calls for a comprehensive real-world test, doesn’t it? In that case, we spent a few days with the bike to find out how much more practical it is. Quality The new RC is a better put-together motorcycle as compared to its predecessor. The paint finish, the quality of plastic panels, and the robustness of nuts and bolts are all decent. However, going by the uneven gaps around the fuel tank and slightly loose panels on its tail section, we believe the RC 200 could do better in this area. Nevertheless, the new RC looks more welcoming right from the moment you lay your eyes on it. Gone is the profoundly combative and razor-sharp design and the new RC looks more mature, bigger, and more elegant. Comfort The fact that the new RC 200 is easier to live with is verified the moment you get onto its saddle. Although swinging a leg over isn’t effortless, thanks to its tall 824mm seat height. But once you saddle up, it’s surprisingly more comfortable than the previous RC. The handlebar is placed higher so you don’t need to crouch ahead as much as before. KTM has also changed the design and padding of the seat which now feels suitable even for long hours of riding. However, you can’t get away with the fact that it is still a sportbike and your wrist and back start hurting a bit after a few minutes. Also, the tall seat height means shorter riders might find it difficult to tiptoe the bike in high up is the pillion seat visually, it's equally challenging to get on it. It's a struggle, to say the least. But once you manage to hop on, the RC is equally comfortable with the right amount of cushioning and space. The presence of sturdy grab rails to hold on to is a bonus. Performance The 2022 RC 200 retains the liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that makes of power and of peak torque. While the performance numbers haven’t changed, KTM has equipped the new RC with a bigger airbox for the engine to breathe more freely now. Even the radiator design is curved for better heat revisions in the engine are noticeable from the word go. It has become substantially smoother, more tractable, and less frantic now. You can do speeds of about 40-45kmph in sixth gear without the engine throwing any tantrums, which means pottering around in the city is much easier. Although the acceleration hasn’t improved drastically, the power delivery is more linear across the rev band. Until 6,000rpm, the RC 200 remains polite and humble with a mellow acceleration, but beyond that, it delights you with a quick and enjoyable pull, making it addictive to rev the bike to its redline. It can also do speeds of 100-110kmph without much stress and overtakes aren’t a task either. Even the gearbox of the RC is typical of a KTM with slick and effortless shifts. And this is accompanied by a light clutch. However, we noticed that the cogs misbehave after a long riding session and the shifts take some effort at times. And now that we are talking negatives, the presence of vibrations is another shortcoming you have to deal with. It creeps in on the footpegs and the handlebar from as low as 90kmph and persists as you go faster. A minor buzz emanates from its panels as well. One area where the RC 200 has improved by a huge margin is in terms of heat dissipation. Thanks to the revised cooling setup, even after getting stuck in traffic for several minutes, I didn’t experience any heat being dissipated on my legs. The handling of the RC 200 is as taut and sharp as ever. In fact, the new model feels more predictable and composed and inspires a lot of confidence while pushing it around corners. The steering responds with decent precision and once leaned over, it holds its line accurately, may it be taking on long sweepers or tight hairpins. While the grip from the tyres is also commendable for the most part, there is a lack of needed feedback when pushed to the edge. Surprisingly, the ride quality isn't compromised in favour of confidence-inspiring handling. The motorcycle soaks up almost everything with ease, from small potholes to ruts, from stones to manhole covers. It's only when you go fast over major undulations that the rear feels a bit RC 200 could do better with brakes though. It doesn't deliver as good stopping power as you would expect from such a performance-focused machine. The brake lever has a decent initial bite but feels inconsistent and lacking under hard braking. The rear brake, however, delivers adequate bite and feel. Technology The new RC 200 also gets a new instrument cluster, and just like most other aspects, this is better too. This is a much larger unit that shows a host of important data in a clean and easy-to-read layout. The list of parameters at your disposal includes speedometer, tachometer, gear position indicator, clock, odometer, two trip meters, fuel range, average fuel consumption, and more. It doesn't have Bluetooth connectivity though, and we think that would have made it a little more desirable. Our wish list also includes a slipper clutch, something that would have made riding it spiritedly even safer. Fuel efficiency Our fuel efficiency test, which involves riding in the city with mild traffic and on open roads, surprised us as the new RC 200 returned an admirable mileage of With its larger fuel tank, the motorcycle should deliver a range of around 590km. Verdict With the new RC 200, KTM seems to have achieved what it aimed for - to make an RC that’s almost as engaging as before while being substantially more practical. The great engine performance and incredible handling didn’t come as surprise. But what truly wowed us is the enhanced comfort, plusher ride quality, a more manageable engine character, and almost no heating from the engine. And despite all the improvements, KTM has priced the motorcycle the same as before at Rs lakh ex-showroom. To conclude, the RC 200 is ideal for those who want the excitement of a KTM without compromising much on practicality. It can handle your daily commutes, your weekend rides, and occasional long rides as well. Moreover, you can also hone your riding skills by taking it to the race by Kaustubh Gandhi

The2022 KTM RC 200 uses the same engine setup as the previous bike. Meaning, it is the same 199.5cc single-cylinder, high-compression BS6 engine that puts out a respectable 25.4bhp at 10,000rpm and 19Nm at 8000rpm. ^{The KTM bikes have been such segment-defining products that it's hard to look elsewhere for something focussed to ride. They are stellar machines, made-in-India, and priced attractively too. And with the new generation of the KTM RC, the question was how can you make this package better? Not that there isn't scope for improvement but the benchmark set was already high. And we finally got the answer with the second generation KTM RC 200. It's arrived earlier than we expected to India soon after its global debut and packs a radical new design, updated chassis, and some weight reduction. It promises to be as good on the road now as it is for the occasional track outing. Does it deliver though? Let's find out. Also Read 2022 KTM RC 200, KTM RC 125 Launched In India WATCH 2022 KTM RC 200 First Ride Review The new front design is dramatically different but likeable in person. It also feels like a built and finished motorcycle than before Design The 2022 KTM RC 200 is so dramatically different from its predecessor that it's polarised enthusiasts. Whether you liked it or not in pictures, we have to say it looks much better in person. The new styling is more about function trickling down from the KTM RC 16 MotoGP machine. The distinctive twin-projector headlamps and razor-sharp front fairing have been replaced with a flatter front. The LED headlamp is new and wider than before and also integrates the daytime running lights and indicators. The windscreen is wider too for better wind protection. In fact, the new design offers better aerodynamic efficiency with lots of flat surfaces helping reduce drag and improve top speed. The exposed rear subframe is hard to ignore, while the revised fairing makes for better ground clearance at 158 mm The visor also gets new rearview mirrors that are now foldable and wider, allowing a better view of what's at the back, something that was sorely missing on the Gen 1 bike. The two-part fairing has been completely redesigned and now redirects cool air towards the rider's legs while actively deflecting hot air. It also gets a new curved radiator for better cooling. At the track, it worked effortlessly but a real test out on the traffic-ridden roads of the city will give a true picture of the heat dissipation. The new RC 200 also gets a redesigned rear section with a new LED taillight and minimal bodywork that exposes that new subframe. The fuel tank is wider and accommodates litres, 4 litres more. The two-part fairing is also easier to remove than before Weight Savings The big update to the 2022 KTM RC 200 comes in the form of the updated chassis. KTM has added a newly-designed subframe similar to the one introduced on the KTM 390 Duke in 2017. It's helped reduce weight on the bike by about kg, along with a lighter sprocket, new and tougher plastic panels, and even lighter wheels. In fact, the five-spoke alloys use a new alloy combination for added toughness and are less likely to break now over a nasty pothole. Even the front brake is now directly mounted on the wheel for added weight savings. All of these changes help the RC 200 lose about kg over its predecessor. Now KTM has used the lightweight effectively by increasing the fuel tank capacity on the motorcycle. The bike now packs a unit, about 4 litres more than before. The new metal tank not only makes for fewer stops between refills but also makes the bike front heavy, aiding in handling. As a result, the kerb weight at 160 kg stays the same with a power to weight ratio of 154 bhp/tonne. The battery and airbox have also moved from the front of the fuel tank cover to the rear section right between the rider's thighs. KTM says it's more effective packaging from a service perspective. The seats immediately feel more comfortable with the double-padded foam. This should've been the set-up all along Ergonomics The new RC 200's riding posture is less dedicated than before and something that a lot of road users will appreciate. The handlebar has been raised by 15 mm, which makes for slightly relaxed ergonomics, even as the rear set footpegs remain the same. It's still as dedicated as before but will now get less cumbersome when riding in the city. You can still lower it for a more dedicated posture. The bike also gets new seats finished in Alcantara-like material with double-padded foam, and it immediately makes the RC more comfortable to ride. The saddle height is the same at 835 mm but the fuel tank space is narrower, so you can put your legs down easily. The surface is smoother than before to help you hold on to it better. The bike gets new grab rails as well that are integrated more seamlessly. The digital console has been carried over from the 250 Adventure. Those looking for a TFT screen will have to wait for the RC 390 Instrument Console The instrument console is the familiar LCD unit that we've seen on the 250 Adventure. It's exactly the same unit and carries over all the features from that version. You continue to get the instant fuel efficiency, gear indicator, shift light, ABS control, speedometer and tachometer and a host of other telltale lights. Those hoping for a TFT screen will be disappointed though with that reserved for the upcoming RC 390. The new RC 200 uses the same engine and gearbox combination. Power and torque figures remain the same and so do the gearbox ratios Performance And all of these changes are paired with a familiar engine and gearbox combination. The cc engine, liquid-cooled engine remains unchanged for India and continues to belt out bhp at 10,000 rpm and Nm of peak torque at 8,000 rpm. The 6-speed gearbox remains unchanged too with the same ratios. But the prominent update is the bigger airbox that allows 40 per cent more air to be fed to the engine. It makes for a linear torque curve and smoother power delivery, while fuel efficiency should go up too. Fire up the engine and the RC 200 feels more same-same but different. Throttle response is smoother and the bike is a lot friendlier to ride with the revised ergos. Gear shifts are as slick as before, and the riding posture is less aggressive, which will be a boon for newer riders. The RC 200 still loves being revved and you still can exploit all the power at the top end of the rev band. It's a bike that will allow you to explore your limits at the peak of the power band far more easily and emerges as quite entertaining to ride. The new chassis is more flexible and immediately more predictable to ride than before Handling & Braking The handling has improved further thanks to the lighter chassis that's more flexible too. Direction changes feel quick and seamless and you are easily in control of the inputs. KTM continues to provide top-notch hardware with the USD front forks and a pre-load adjustable monoshock coming from WP. The front travel has improved by 10 mm to further aid in ride comfort. The RC 200 is a sharp motorcycle and ride comfort hasn't dramatically turned plus but it feels more composed than before. The front-heavy nature also makes it more friendly to dive into a corner. KTM also added a larger 320 mm disc at the front of the RC 200, which should've made better feedback but that still remains lacking on the lever. It does come with dual-channel ABS with the supermoto mode, but a more aggressive bite at the lever is sorely missed. The new RC 200 emerges as a well-packaged offering addressing niggles from its predecessor while retaining its strong suit Price & Verdict The new RC 200 emerges as more inviting than ever thanks to a more comfortable riding posture and seat. That's something most riders will appreciate on a day-to-day basis. It also appears as a better-finished motorcycle and is worth your money. And it should be, for you are paying Rs. lakh ex-showroom, which is the same as the Gen 1 version. Of course, this is early bird pricing and we expect it to go up by about Rs. 8,000-10,000 in a few months from now. It's also still more expensive than the comparable full-faired 250s but definitely feels more entertaining to ride. The KTM RC 200 never dared to please everyone, which is exactly why it stood out all these years. The new version only builds on the same ethos but feels like a more mature product choosing function. For those starting college or a professional career, and are looking out for a bike that's truly fun, the RC 200 remains an excellent package that's now even better. Photography Pawan Dagia} KTMRC 200: chassis and handling For 2022, the RCs get a new frame with a bolt-on subframe. The main frame is pretty much the same as before, so there are no changes to the steering geometry or The introduction of the KTM 200 Duke in the United States brought a few questions to mind. First and foremost is whether KTM will introduce a 200cc version of the RC. We currently have the RC 390 in US dealers, but what about its smaller brother, the RC 200? If the 200 Duke is available, doesn’t that sort of open up the possibility of the 200cc supersport’s availability stateside? It’s not entirely impossible for KTM to turn-key and bring in the raciest of its 200cc offerings to the American market, and doesn’t it seem like the 200 Duke’s a little lonely sitting in the lineup? While there is no confirmation nor a huge likelihood that the 200cc supersport from Team Orange will come, here’s a first ride review of it anway in its natural habitat, the race track. Cheater tires? KTM Philippines called me to come to the track and attend the launch of the RC 200. Orange was everywhere, and the brand had several RC 200 demo units that were Ready to Race, with some perhaps more ready than others. Two out of the four units available for journalists, vloggers, and customers to test were not exactly the same due to a few cheat codes on the rims. One pair of RCs had standard OEM tires, which is the setup that buyers will be getting straight out of the showroom floor, while the other pair was equipped with Pirelli Diablo Supercorsas. Overkill? Yes. Amazing? Absolutely. When I pressed KTM representatives about the decision to equip the demo RC 200 with Supercorsas, the answer that I got was very “KTM,” which was “why the hell not?” Not only did I get to test a brand-spanking-new sportbike, but I also had a spin on the track with some of the best rubber around. I’ll be honest in saying that Pirelli Supercorsas are a cheater tire, but I did have a few rounds on the standard OEM tires and it’s safe to say that I was impressed either way. The enhanced RC experience Just like the RC 390, the 200 features largely the same package as its bigger brother, which is stellar because you don’t sacrifice anything in terms of its race-ready ergonomics, which is also adjustable given the new clip-on handlebars for the 2022 year models. Everything from the RC 390 is mostly here except for the more advanced tech features like the TFT display and LED headlight among a bunch of other things. Instead of diodes, you get a halogen headlamp just like the 200 Duke which I can’t really talk about because it was tapped up for the track. Most of everything from the brand-new RC 390 is on the 200 version, with adjustable clip-on handlebars, a more accommodating and larger tank for your track sessions, and a grippier seat that’s wrapped in Alcantara. With KTM being KTM, the RC 200 is race-ready from the factory as it is equipped with foldable everything almost just in case you tip over. The shifter and foot brake levers are both foldable and have a better chance at surviving a low-side compared to a fixed set. It’s a shame that the levers weren’t the foldable kind nor were they adjustable, but that's not such a big deal breaker considering that the rest of the package is just so dialed in for racing. Still, however, the side stand is hard to get to without first folding the left footpeg, which is still a very chief complaint that I have about the RC series to this day. Running down the RC 200’s spec sheet, we get a single-cylinder, four-stroke engine with of displacement, with 26 horsepower and foot-pounds of torque, mated to a six-speed gearbox. The suspension on the RC 200 is a set of 43-millimeter non-adjustable WP APEX front forks with a WP APEX monoshock at the back with pre-load adjustment. Suspension travel for the front is at 125 millimeters while the rear travels up to 150 millimeters. It’s not going to wow you that much with its specifications, but even with its new tank, KTM was able to keep its weight down at 332 pounds dry and that’s also thanks in part to the massive unsprung and sprung weight reductions to the model. The front and rear brakes also get an upgrade. Apart from being lighter, the RC 200 has 320-millimeter front discs clamped by ByBre calipers and supplemented by a 230-millimeter rear disc brake also with a ByBre system. More seat time required I’m a rather green motorcyclist on a circuit with only a few track days to my name, but the experience of riding a race-bred KTM in its natural habitat was a bit of an eye-opener. I was impressed enough to consider buying an RC for track sessions because it was just that much fun. I can’t count how many times I banged off the rev limiter trying to get the maximum speed on straights and out of corners. On the main straight, I eventually got up to about 70 miles per hour and I had a ton of fun waiting for the speedometer to read as such. I spent so much time with my throttle pinned that it was borderline hilarious just how little speed I was gaining in comparison to the bigger bikes I’ve tried in the past. The RC 200 has a lot of initial pep in its step and its 26 horsepower figure is not overwhelming at all on track. In fact, it’s a little lacking for guys who are used to bikes with a lot of power. The RC 200 definitely is a bike that’ll teach you how to carry speed and proper form on the track so if you’re fast on this, it’s likely that you’ll be fast with other bikes as well. On its stock tires, the RC 200 was still sharp in the handling department, though out of the box, the tires could use an upgrade hence the Pirellis on the other units. The WP suspension was plenty adequate for the track since the asphalt that day was on the bumpier side of things in comparison with other race tracks. Even then, the suspension smoothed everything out. Unfortunately, the bike corners faster than it needs to brake, as the ByBre calipers had a pretty aggressive bite when slowing down. I might have scrubbed off too much speed at times because of it but I think that’s more to do with my level of skill more than anything else. Suffice to say, in way more capable hands the RC 200 could achieve some rather impressive cornering speeds just like its bigger brother. Does the RC 200 make sense? In my opinion, for countries like the Philippines where small bikes are pretty much everyone’s bike, the RC 200 makes a ton of sense. For the United States, however, it’s a little questionable, but what about the 200 Duke? Why is it available? I don’t know. Will the RC 200 make an appearance in the lineup? Perhaps? Perhaps not? If anything, this little racing experience from KTM was one for the books. In fact, I didn’t walk away with a record-setting lap time because nobody was timing. KTM Philippines made it clear that the track day was for fun, and everyone walked away with smiles from ear to ear at the end of the day. For me, the point of the RC 200 is that it can be a fun bike or a serious one depending on what you want it to be. Whether it’s just a bike that you use to muck about or a real racing machine, it can accommodate your needs and you won’t have to do a ton of crazy-expensive mods to the bike because it’s definitely Ready to Race. Even after all of the sessions, the fuel economy reading never went past 2 liters per 100 kilometers, which is over 100 miles per gallon. You can, in theory, ride it every day and treat it like a cool-looking scooter. The RC 390 is the better bike among the two and I did sit myself down after the track day and contemplated just how fun it would be to go faster. Then I quickly shot down that thought because there is just something about taking a bike to full throttle all the time that makes a track novice like me giddy with glee. Do note that we took the bikes out in the Batangas Racing Circuit in the Philippines, which is not that big of a track. I’d happily accept another invite from KTM for another track day, even if all they gave me was an RC 200 to play around with. The KTM team also wanted to throw me on a 790 Duke, and I gladly refused their offer. Instead, I opted to take the little RC out on track again and again. Whether you’re starting out on the track like me, or an advanced rider that wants a little plaything, the RC 200 is one heck of a small bike to wring out. Now, if only it were available. KTM's Other Ready To Race Offerings

ForIndia, KTM has launched the RC 125 and the RC 200 first and we got a chance to sample the RC 200 at Bajaj's Chakan test track to figure out if the changes have translated to a better street bike. 2022 KTM RC 200 ride and handling. This department is where the RC 200 has seen the most changes. Weight savings has been one of the key

Photography Pawan Dagia Having tested the 2017 KTM RC 390 at the Bajaj test track in Pune, it was now time to take the 2017 RC 200 for a couple of laps. The Austrian bike maker's supersport offering was launched alongside the RC 390 in late 2014 and the RC200 still remains one of the best entry-level motorcycles to learn the dynamics on track. For the 2017 model year, KTM hasn't introduced as extensive upgrades as the 390 on the RC 200, but you do get a BSIV compliant engine and new body graphics. 2017 KTM RC 200 First Ride Review The 2017 RC200 gets new white and orange paint scheme What's New - The 2017 KTM RC 200 boasts of a white paint scheme, quite contrary to the older matte black shade. The new RC 200 keeps things glossy like the 390 but is also more orange this time. The 'RC 200' badge also now takes prominence on the fairing. The other major change is the white under seat panel that was white earlier and also gets the RC 200 moniker. KTM has made no changes to the design and the bike remains exactly as the outgoing version. The white shade though does give the 200 a visually larger appearance that works well. The mirrors are now wider and offers improved visibility The new RC also comes with wider rear view mirrors shared with the 2017 RC 390 that lend an unobstructed view, while the improved cushioning from the 390 has also made it to the RC 200. The instrument console remains the same as the earlier version but gets one major addition and that is real time fuel efficiency. The 2017 RC200 continues to get an underbelly exhaust Like the 2017 RC 390, the new RC 200 does not get adjustable levers and a side mounted exhaust. KTM folks tell us that the additional hardware needed to make the supersport BSIV compliant was fulfilled in the current setup and so the side canister has been given a miss. The smaller RC then continues to remain more susceptible to being scraped when leaning hard. The 2017 RC200 gets no mechanical changes How Does It Ride - Save for the BSIV compliant engine, the 2017 KTM RC 200 gets absolutely no change to the mechanicals, and needless to say, it rides exactly how it used to. So, you continue to have dedicated ergonomics with the low set handlebar, upswept foot pegs and a crouched back. Shorter riders will be able to adapt well to this, while it does take some time for the vertically gifted to find the right position. Give the RC 200 a flat tarmac and 130+ kmph will come up in no time The cc liquid-cooled mill continues to produce bhp and 19 Nm of torque. The free revving motor is upbeat about performance and allows you to push to the limit every time. The 6-speed transmission is eager to upshift with initial gears being shorter and gets to triple digit numbers in a jiffy. If you are riding the RC 200 right after the RC 390 like we did; it will appear to be slower in comparison but not that the smaller RC is any less manic. Give it a flat straight and the all-knowing digital console will show in excess of 130 kmph in no time. That's also around where the rev limiter kicks in. The RC200 is a capable track tool The KTM RC 200 is also less intimidating on the track and encourages you to push harder. In fact, I do think this is the more fun RC between both versions if you are starting out. The RC 200 lacks the top-end punch as the 390, but this one is more agile around corners and that comes from being lighter than its sibling. The 2017 RC 200 weighs just 154 kg kerb, which is a good 14 kg lesser than the RC 390 and that does show how the bike responds when you dive into turns. You have more control, not to forget, you also get to make full use of its tyres, in this case - the MRF Revz C, minimizing chicken strips. However, if you've learnt the nuance around corners, the RC 390 is tactfully the more logical and certainly the more fun purchase. Braking performance still needs to be worked upon One thing we do think KTM should've worked upon is the braking of the 2017 RC 200. The bike uses the same 300 mm disc up front, but the feedback feels a bit underwhelming. While the discs at both ends do the job effectively, a bit more confidence would go a long way. Unlike the RC 390, KTM does not provide ABS on the RC 200 and that's a big bummer. Nevertheless, the next update is expected to get the same. The KTM Race Competition RC series brings the focus on riding hard Verdict - The KTM RC 200 never really major had issues to begin with and the 2017 edition ensures that it gets better for the environment while retaining the same good bits. It is focused, fun and the right entry-level track tool you should be looking at. At Rs. lakh ex-showroom, Delhi, the price increase is only marginal, keeping the bang for the buck value intact. However, if a quicker upgrade is on your mind, we do think spending a little extra and getting the enormously loaded 2017 RC 390 is a better choice. That said, the RC twins will be moving to the next generation later this year when the new generation Duke based models arrive at EICMA. The India launch can be expected some time in 2018. Till then, the 2017 RC 200 and RC 390 are ready to race. . 256 220 296 210 47 20 251 338

ktm rc 200 test ride