KTM RC 200: 2020 vs 2021 Model

How has the KTM RC 200 evolved in its 2021 avatar?

It’s an open secret that KTM has been working on the latest iteration of its RC series. Thanks to the recently leaked images, we now know what the 2021 KTM RC 200 looks like. The bike has received a major cosmetic overhaul, but how different is it from its predecessor? Let’s figure it out. 

Design

The outgoing KTM RC 200 has carried the same sharp and edgy design since its inception. The aggressive fascia packing projector bulbs have been favoured by the crowd all the while. However, with its latest iteration, the RC 200 now gets quite a docile front profile. It gets LED illumination and even a faux carbon fibre finish. But, we won’t be surprised if the India-spec model receives conventional lights instead of LEDs, for cost-cutting. 

Just like its brethren, the 2021 RC 200 seems to be roomier as the rider triangle has been altered slightly. It gets a new top-triple clamp and new clip-ons, which seem to be placed higher than the previous model’s setup. Other changes include larger front indicators, unlike the current-gen’s mirror integrated ones. Even the rider and the pillion seats have been revised and receive a textured seat. Also the colour options and graphics on the new bike are more eccentric than its predecessor. 

Features

The new RC 200 gets a larger, horizontal LCD instrument cluster. Its UI is likely to be similar to the 250 Adventure. While a TFT screen could go a long way, it also brings a higher asking price. Anyway, the new instrument console looks far better than the current compact unit. 

Mechanical Bits

The 2021 KTM RC 200 will retain the liquid-cooled single-cylinder 200cc motor from the old model. Currently, the engine makes 25PS and 19.2Nm. So, a small increase in the output would be appreciated. Thanks to the leaked images, it appears that the radiator design too has been altered for better heat dissipation and it now gets twin fans. 

While the USD fork and the rear monoshock setup remains unchanged, the 2021 KTM RC 200 gets a new bolt-on rear frame. This makes it easier to repair and more affordable than the 2020 RC 200’s chassis. As for the braking setup, the upcoming model features a lighter front disc mounted on new 5-spoke wheels wrapped in Continental ContiRoad sport-touring tyres. Until now, the India-spec KTM RC 200 was shod with MRF rubber. 

Pricing

Currently, the KTM RC 200 costs Rs 2.08 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). Expect the new model to receive a hike of about Rs 10,000 with all the new updates.