2021 Aprilia RS 125 vs KTM RC 125: Spec Comparison

Aprilia’s 125cc fully-faired motorcycle has received a couple of changes for 2021. And we have already explained the details of the bike and brought you a comprehensive image gallery. All this while knowing it won’t come to India anytime soon. However, on paper, it makes for a close rival to the KTM RC 125 that’s sold in India. Hence, now we compare both of them to find out which one’s better on paper. 

Design and features

The RS 125 and the RC 125 look like a typical sportsbike with a sharp and aggressive fully-faired body style. However, the RC 125 is pretty long in the tooth now with its styling being largely the same since its inception. But that might change in the near future as a new design language for the entire RC series is in the pipeline. As for the Aprilia, it has received a revised front end for 2021. The entire headlamp section is inspired by the new-age Aprilia sportsbikes like the RS660. However, from the mid-section to the tail, it has retained its previous aesthetics. 

As for the features, both bikes get a fully digital instrument cluster that shows a host of information. However, the unit fitted in the RS 125 is larger and shows data in a clearer layout. Also, the Italian machine gets full-LED lighting while its Austrian contender misses out on a LED headlamp and makes do with a projector halogen unit along with LED turn indicators and an LED tail lamp. If that isn’t enough, the RS 125 buyers can have a quick shifter as an option! Of course, it isn’t available in the RC 125’s arsenal. 

Engine

The 2021 Aprilia RS 125 is powered by a Euro5-compliant, 124.2cc, single-cylinder, DOHC, four-valve engine that churns out 15bhp of power at 10,000rpm and 11.2Nm of peak torque at 8,000rpm. While the RC makes slightly lesser power at 14.5bhp, the peak torque figure is marginally higher at 12Nm. Transmission duties on both bikes are handled by a six-speed gearbox. 

Cycle Parts

Underpinning the RS 125 is a diamond-type frame that is suspended by upside down forks and a monoshock. It rides on 17-inch alloy wheels that are shod with Michelin rubbers and are anchored by a disc at both ends. While the RC 125 gets a similar suspension and braking setup, it is based on a different steel trellis frame. Also, wrapped around its alloy wheels are lower-spec MRF tyres. 

Pricing

The KTM RC 125 is priced at Rs 1,70,214 (ex-showroom, Delhi) and that’s quite steep for a 125cc motorcycle. Similarly, even the 2021 Aprilia RS 125 is pricey with a price tag of 5,390 Euros (approximately Rs 4.78 lakh).