KTM 160 Duke vs Yamaha MT15: Engine specs, features & more compared

The 150–160cc streetfighter segment just got hotter as KTM recently debuted the all-new 160 Duke in India at Rs 1.85 lakh, ex-showroom, and its prime target is none other than the Yamaha MT-15, a popular choice in the segment. Here’s a quick look at how these models stack up against each other on paper.

KTM 160 Duke vs Yamaha MT15: Engines

The KTM 160 Duke is powered by a 164.2cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder motor producing 19 hp at 9,500 rpm and 15.5 Nm at 7,500 rpm. Meanwhile, the Yamaha MT-15 uses its familiar 155cc liquid-cooled engine, making 18.4 hp at a higher 10,000 rpm and 14.1 Nm at 7,500 rpm. Both are paired with 6-speed gearboxes.

KTM 160 Duke vs Yamaha MT15: Dimensions and weight

The KTM tips the scales at 147 kg, while the MT-15 is lighter at 141 kg. The Duke has a taller seat height of 815 mm (vs 810 mm on the Yamaha), a marginally larger tank (10.1 litres vs 10 litres), and a longer wheelbase (1,357 mm vs 1,325 mm). Ground clearance is also slightly better on the KTM at 174 mm, compared to 170 mm on the Yamaha.

Both bikes use USD forks up front and a rear monoshock. Braking is handled by discs at both ends, but KTM offers a larger 320 mm front rotor compared to Yamaha’s 282 mm unit. At the back, MT15 uses a 220 mm disc while the Duke uses a 230 mm unit.Tyre profiles differ too: KTM gets 110/70 front and 140/60 rear tyres, while the Yamaha comes with a slimmer 100/80 front but a fatter 140/70 rear.

The KTM 160 Duke gets a basic 5-inch LCD console, offering Bluetooth, turn-by-turn navigation, and music/call controls. Lighting is all-LED, and KTM adds its switchable ABS mode (disabling rear ABS).The Yamaha MT-15, especially in the DLX variant, has a fancier TFT display with Bluetooth support via the Y-Connect app. It gives call and SMS alerts, ride stats, and more. Yamaha also offers a wider palette of colours, six in total, including a MotoGP edition. In comparison, KTM’s offers three (Electronic Orange, Atlantic Blue, and Silver Metallic Matte) options.