KTM 125 Duke ABS vs TVS Apache RTR 200 4V ABS vs Yamaha YFZ-R15 S – Competition check

KTM has finally launched its smallest streetfighter in India – the 125 Duke. The motorcycle has been priced at Rs 1.18 lakhs. Now, looking at its segment and pricing, there are two other bikes which compete with it including the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V ABS and the Yamaha YZF-R15 S. Let’s have a look at which is more potent on paper.

Design

There’s one common design trait which all the bikes possess – aggression. The KTM 125 Duke retains the styling of its elder sibling, the 200 Duke with minimalistic and angular body panels. The only difference is the new set of decals. Same is the case with the Apache RTR 200 4V which is a quintessential streetfighter with sharp and angular contours. The YZF-R15 S, however, is a sportsbike with twin headlamp, tall windscreen, clip-on handlebars and fairing.

Engine

The KTM Duke 125 is powered by a 124.7cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that churns out 14.3bhp at 9,250rpm and 12Nm at 8,000rpm. This makes it the most powerful 125cc bike in India. The Yamaha YZF-R15 S is slightly more powerful with its 150cc, liquid-cooled motor that generates 16bhp and 15Nm. The TVS Apache RTR 200 4V houses a 197.75cc, single-cylinder, oil-cooled, carburetor motor that is good for 20.4bhp and 18Nm of torque. This unit is mated to a five-speed gearbox while the 125 Duke and the YZF-R15 S get a six-speed gearbox.

Cycle parts

Mechanically, the KTM 125 Duke is similar to its elder sibling as it is based on a trellis frame that is suspended on 43mm upside-down front forks and adjustable monoshock at the rear. For braking, it gets a 300mm front disc and a 230mm rear disc and, switchable single-channel ABS comes as standard.

The other two bikes get telescopic forks on the front and a monoshock at the rear. The Apache incorporates a 270mm front disc and 240mm rear disc while ABS is available as an option. The YZF-R15 S is the only one which stays deprived of this safety feature which consists of a 267mm front disc and 220mm rear disc brake. 

Features

In terms of features, the Yamaha YZF-R15 S is the most dated one here with a small digital instrument cluster and an analogue tachometer. The KTM 125 Duke and TVS Apache RTR 200 4V both consist of a full-digital instrument cluster. While the Duke’s display already provides information comprehensively, the Apache consists of additional information such as lap timer and top speed recorder.

Pricing

Priced at Rs 1.18 lakhs, the KTM 125 Duke is the most expensive 125cc bike in India. The Yamaha YZF-R15 S comes for Rs 1.16 lakhs and the most affordable of the group is the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V which gets the price tag of Rs 1.08 lakhs. (all prices are ex-showroom, Mumbai)