KTM 160 DUKE

When KTM decided to introduce the 160 Duke, I wasn't sure what to expect.

- CHRISTOPHER CHAVES

But after a couple of hours in the saddle, I can confidently say that this is no mere 'entry-level' Duke. In fact, it's an unapologetically aggressive, sporty motorcycle that embodies the essence of the Duke family in a compact and accessible package.

This new 160 Duke is essentially the spiritual successor to the 125 Duke, which was quietly phased out a few months ago. Aimed at taking on the likes of the Yamaha MT-15, the 160 Duke shares a lot of similarities with its larger 200cc sibling, but there are key differences that make this machine a worthy contender in the crowded entry-level performance segment.

Let's break down what makes the 160 Duke tick, starting with its design and ride dynamics. At first glance, the 160 Duke leaves no doubt that it belongs to KTM's Duke family. The design is aggressive, lean, and forward-leaning, with sharp lines and a menacing stance that's on part with the bigger Dukes in the lineup. While it borrows design cues from the 200 Duke, the 160's more compact form factor makes it look like a mini-200, and that's no bad thing. The bike features all-LED lighting, from the angular headlamp to the turn indicators that adds a sense of sharpness at the front.