It has been learnt that both the KTM Duke 125 and RC 125 will not get the OBD-2B compliant engine as the new norms kick in from April 1, 2025
KTM India will discontinue its 125 cc range of motorcycles in the country from April 1, 2025. The company will not update the Duke 125 and the RC 125 for the stricter OBD-2B emission norms. According to sources closer to development, the Austrian brand does not see any valid point in investing more money into these models due to poor sales performance. KTM Duke 125 and RC 125 face stiff competition from Yamaha R15 and MT-15 in the Indian market, which sell in extremely high numbers due to Yamaha’s legacy.
KTM had begun its innings in the 125cc segment of motorcycles in India with the introduction of the Duke in 2018. A few years later, the RC 125 was launched in the domestic market. However, despite KTM trying everything to push these bikes in our market, the duo never really took off in terms of sales. In fact, the entire 125 cc segment is registering lower sales numbers.
Though, customers still will be able to buy the existing stock till March 31 and the brand could well roll out exciting offers to clear the inventory such as hefty cash discounts, offers on insurance and warranty benefits. The dealers aim to sell the stock at the earliest.
Both the bikes are equipped with a 124.7 cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine which generates maximum power of 14.3 bhp at 9250 rpm and highest torque of 12 Nm at 8000 rpm. The engine is paired with a 6-speed transmission, which makes these motorcycles unique in India. The Duke 125 as well as the RC 125 are performance-driven motorcycles and hence they attract a higher price tag. The former is priced at Rs 1.81 lakh while the latter comes at Rs 1.92 lakh (Both ex-showroom, Delhi).
Sitting on the lightweight split-steel trellis frame, the equipment offered in these motorcycles is quite premium and up-market too as they come with 43 mm WP-sourced USD front suspension, disc brakes at both ends, switchable ABS and 110 section front tyre. The styling is primarily inspired by their bigger siblings, predominantly the KTM 1290 Super Duke.
Though both the motorcycles are still listed on KTM India website and there is no official announcement from the company yet regarding their discontinuation in the Indian market. However, as per reports, the European bike maker has realised that without proper demand, it will not be a wise idea to update the engine of both the bikes to OBD-2B emission levels and hence it is better to pull the plug, at least for the time being.
