KTM RC 200 - THE GAME CHANGER

The KTM RC 200 is like a road legal version of a Moto 3 bike, boasting handling characteristics that can rival some higher capacity sport bikes. With this bike you will literally be "Ready To Race" because that's pretty much the only thing that this bike is good at. Okay, enough blabbering, lets get to the point-

Looks

It comes with a black base paint which looks like a matte finish but isn't. The decals are minimalistic, but there is the option of Powerparts stickers which look insane.The full fairing along with the headlights look aggressive, but on close inspection there are a few gaps which look untidy. The twin projector headlamps not only look cool but also serves the purpose. The DRLs look mean and can also be switched off. The orange coloured Trellis frame and rims are eye catching. The pillion seat is made to look like a cowl which is damn cool. The indicators are incorporated into the rear view mirrors which is unseen on other bikes in this segment. Overall this bike will make you the most famous person in your street, guaranteed.

Ergonomics

As mentioned before the riding position is very aggressive. It just begs you to dip it into a corner. Some owners have reported back and wrist pains. But it depends on how an individual can adjust to this position. It is definitely not suited for city commuting. Long rides become painful, this bike was made with one aim - to handle like a race bike in circuits. And when you go in that direction, comfort has to be compromised. 

Performance

As the name suggests, it has a 200cc liquid cooled engine pumping out 25Bhp and 19Nm. Being a fuel injected engine, it is refined and the fuelling is good too. 100kmph comes up in around 9 seconds just like its naked brother. If you manage to find a good road, you can easily reach the top speed of 138kmph. But this bike was never made with top speed in mind. Where it lacks in top speed, it more than makes up in its mid range (most useful in a race track). It weighs about 147 kgs, which is a lot lesser than its rival- the RS200. But unlike the RS, this bike dosent come with ABS even as an option. The gearing is short, which means you can ride in higher gears at low speeds. That helps in city riding. To sum it up, this bike certainly gives a good bang for the buck. 

Verdict

If given a choice, I would rather buy the Duke 390 which is more powerful and practical(costs around 50k more). But if you are someone who is interested in track days and the heavenly art of cornering, the RC 200 is a really good starter bike. 
Ride Safe