With the introduction of the RC 125, KTM leaves little excuse for youngsters and those young at heart not to get excited about the freedom and thrill that sports bikes can offer.
Like it did with the introduction of the KTM 125 DUKE in 2011, KTM again shows the world that the 125cc class doesn’t have to be a stepping stone bike, built to compromise. The naked DUKE went on to become the best-selling bike in its class in Europe and the first 125 to become fitted with ABS as standard. Now joined by its supersport cousin, the KTM RC 125, KTM once again demonstrates the importance it places on the eighth-litre category to inject maximum fun into new and returning riders.
- Redefining supersport 125s for ‘daily race’
- All new sporty chassis
- High specification components from WP Suspension and Brembo
- BOSCH 9MB two-channel ABS as standard
- Grand Prix styling and outstanding equipment
Engine & chassis
Much more than just a DUKE with a full fairing bolted on, the RC is a fully-fledged machine developed in its own right for a totally different rider. Yes, the DUKE’s smooth, fast and efficient 15hp, four-stroke single cylinder engine remains but the familiar steel trellis frame utilized by the naked bike is replaced with an all-new item with a more sporty geometry; a sharper steering head angle combined with a shorter trail and wheelbase makes it extremely responsive and allows incredible agile but safe riding.
Design
Styling plays a huge part to any bike and the RC was designed so that owners would never tire of opening the garage door or pulling back a cover to reveal its Grand Prix looks. Thanks to compact, cutting-edge light sources, the unique design almost appears to disguise its road going requirements. The twin headlights use small projector lamps, while the running, rear, brake, license plate and indicator lights all use compact, energy-saving LEDs.
In addition, the front indicators are integrated into the mirror housings while the tail and brake light are housed in the rear of the seat. This not only fuels the racing look further, but contributes to the RC 125’s aerodynamics. Also, that isn’t a solo seat on the RC – the designers have cleverly created a comfortable pillion seat that looks like a race unit, with pillion footrests that are easily removable for a pure race look.
For every KTM it is never form without function and the RC 125 is a small capacity sports bike with big ambitions, so the ergonomics have been tirelessly created to fit a variety of rider sizes. This attention to detail not only helps to give maximum comfort, but also allows the ability to move freely around the machine when slicing through traffic or a favourite set of bends. And if there is the need to be READY TO RACE, the ergonomics gives the rider all freedom to crouch behind the windscreen.
Brakes & ABS
A fantastic chassis and good looks are nothing without the ability to keep the whole package controlled. The RC benefits from the supremely powerful braking system ByBre developed in conjunction with Brembo; a single, radially-mounted four-piston caliper biting down hard on the 300mm front disc backed up by a single-piston caliper on the rear, 230mm disc. As part of KTM’s commitment to rider safety, the RC 125 also receives the sophisticated BOSCH 9MB two-channel ABS system as standard. And yes, it can be turned off for when the mood takes you.
Speedometer
Onboard and tucked beneath the screen, riders can choose from a large selection of what information to display on the digital LCD dashboard: including selected gear, fuel gauge, service interval information and journey statistics, such as fuel economy and average speed. For those not paying close attention to digital tachometer, an adjustable shift light indicates the time to switch gears when accelerating – like a true race bike.
Production and delivery of the KTM RC 125 and with that the “daily race” starts this September.
via KTM
