KTM 125 Duke vs Yamaha YZF-R15 V3- Spec Comparison

The KTM 125 Duke will soon be launched in India and when it does, it is expected to be priced very close to the Yamaha R15 V3. We take a close look at the two bikes and how they fare against each other in terms of specifications. 

Design

Aptly called ‘the spawn of the beast’, the KTM 125 Duke carries on the radical streetfighter styling of its bigger sibling, the 390 Duke. Sporting the current ‘Duke’ family design language, the bike gets a muscular tank and chiselled tank extensions, a low-slung headlamp, and an exposed sub-frame that give it a raw appeal.

The Yamaha YZF R15 V3 on the other hand is a fully-faired motorcycle with styling inspiration from the litre-class YZF-R1. It gets sharp lines and creases all around the bodywork. The lower set handlebars and slightly rear set foot pegs make for an aggressive riding position, revealing the sporty intent of the YZF-R15 V3.

Features

Now the international-spec KTM 125 Duke gets a full-colour TFT dash and LED headlamps. However, we expect the Indian version to miss out on these features and come equipped with an orange-backlit LCD and conventional bulbs with LED DRL. On the other hand, it is likely to sport the same upside down forks as the international variant. 

While the R15 V3 also skips the USD forks setup, it does get a modern-looking LCD display along with full-LED lighting for the headlamp and tail lamp. 

Engine

The KTM 125 Duke will be powered by a 124cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled motor that produces 15bhp and 12Nm of torque. The unit is mated to a six-speed gearbox.

Meanwhile, the YZF R15 V3 benefits from a bigger 155cc single-cylinder engine. This liquid cooled motor puts out a higher 18.7bhp and 15Nm of torque and is mated to a six-speed gearbox. Furthermore, the R15 V3 gets the VVA (Variable Valve Actuation) technology and a slipper clutch. 

Pricing

While the Yamaha YZF R15 V3 costs Rs 1.25 lakhs, we can expect KTM to price the 125 Duke around Rs 1.2-1.3 lakhs (ex-showroom).