The smaller segment of bikes in India has become very popular as these bikes are more accessible. Today, two of the most popular bikes in the 150cc segment go up against each other. So which one should you pick? Let’s discuss –
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Table of Contents
Yamaha MT 15 Vs KTM Duke 160 – Detailed Comparison


The Yamaha MT 15 is extremely popular among new riders as it offers immense performance at an affordable price tag. First launched in 2019, the MT 15 has continued to be at the top of its game when it comes to performance and styling. On the contrary, KTM recently launched the Duke 160 in August, replacing its entry-level Duke 125. On paper, the KTM Duke 160 does look good with its performance figures and features, while the design is very similar to the Duke 200, as it shares most components with it. The Yamaha MT 15 carries a price tag ranging from Rs 1.88 Lakh to Rs 2.08 Lakh (on-road, Mumbai). The KTM Duke 160 is priced at Rs 2.04 Lakh (on-road, Mumbai). So, how do these two rivals compare? Let’s take a look!
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Design


The MT 15 has retained its overall design since its launch, with a few minor updates. Yamaha has offered new colour options and replaced the older model’s halogen indicators with LEDs. In terms of the MT’s stance and appearance, you can see how Yamaha’s signature naked bike design has trickled down into this bike. The bike is compact and sharp with striking design elements like a muscular fuel tank, LED projector lamps and much more, adding to the aggressive design language.
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On the other hand, the new Duke 160 looks almost identical to the existing Duke 200. But that’s a good thing. Adding to the aggressive appearance are elements like a sharp LED headlamp, an aggressive tank design, an exposed trellis frame and much more. As it is not as compact as the MT 15, the Duke 160 will unlikely go unnoticed. Plus, KTM has also used a similar design for the 160, as its bigger Duke models, adding to the uniformity. That said, design is a subjective matter, and in terms of design, you can’t go wrong with either of these bikes.
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Yamaha MT 15 Vs KTM Duke 160 – Features


Both the MT 15 and the Duke 160 get a good suite of features. The MT 15 gets features like a fully digital instrument cluster, turn-by-turn navigation, dual-channel ABS, traction control and much more.


Moving on to the Duke 160, features include an LCD instrument cluster, dual-channel ABS, supermoto ABS, turn-by-turn navigation, and much more. That said, both bikes are closely matched in terms of features, with no major differences.
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Performance


Performance is one of the key points to choose between the two bikes. While the MT 15 has been around for more than 6 years now, the Duke 160 is a new product. Powering the Yamaha is a 155cc engine producing 18.1bhp and 14.1Nm of torque, along with a 6-speed gearbox and a slip and assist clutch. Plus, weighing just 141kgs, the MT 15 is very agile and nimble. Moreover, the power-to-weight ratio is quite impressive, adding more to the riding thrill. The USD forks on the MT 15 allow you to push the bike to its limits and extract all the fun.
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In comparison, the Duke 160 is powered by a 165.2cc engine producing 18.73bhp and 15.5Nm of torque along with a 6-speed gearbox. KTM has offered WP Apex USD forks at the front and WP Apex rear suspension as well. Plus, the bike only weighs about 147kgs, allowing you to have fun on the straights as well as the corners. The KTM may feel slightly more stable in a straight line due to the weight, but the agility might be slightly dulled when compared to the MT 15. That said, both bikes offer enthralling performance and a fun riding experience. To come to a conclusion, it’s best if you ride both these bikes back to back to see which one is more to your liking.

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