KTM Duke 200 vs Yamaha R15 – Full Comparison of Performance, Features, and Value (2025) | BikeCarHub
26 Jun 2025
Written by: BikeCarHub Editorial Team
Published on: 26th June 2025
Introduction
In India’s entry-level performance bike market, KTM Duke 200 and Yamaha R15 stand out as two of the most popular choices for young riders. Both bikes offer sporty designs, exciting engines, and the promise of a thrilling ride.
Popular Picks in the Entry-Level Sports Segment
While the KTM Duke 200 brings streetfighter energy with its aggressive, upright design, the Yamaha R15 offers track-inspired styling and precision. In this detailed comparison brought to you by BikeCarHub, we'll break down their differences to help you make the best choice in 2025.
KTM Duke 200 and Yamaha R15
The KTM Duke 200 is a muscular street-naked bike known for its sharp acceleration, agile handling, and upright riding posture. It's a perfect fit for city riders who love quick throttle response and aggressive looks.
The Yamaha R15 is a fully-faired sports bike with track-focused DNA. It's famous for its aerodynamic design, smooth power delivery, and precision handling, making it ideal for cornering lovers and highway racers.
Detailed Specifications Comparison
| Specification | KTM Duke 200 | Yamaha R15 V4 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 199.5cc, Single Cylinder Liquid-Cooled, DOHC, FI Engine | 155cc, Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 4-valve |
| Power | 25 PS@10,000 rpm | 18.4 PS@10,000 rpm |
| Torque | 19.2 Nm@8000 rpm | 14.2 Nm@7500 rpm |
| Mileage (Approx.) | 35 kmpl | 45 kmpl |
| Weight | 159 kg | 141 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13.5 litres | 11 litres |
| Braking System | Dual-channel ABS | Dual-channel ABS |
| Seat Height | 822 mm | 815 mm |
| Colours | Electronic Orange, Dark Galvano, Electric Orange, Silver Metallic | RACING BLUE, VIVID MAGENTA METALLIC, INTENSITY WHITE, DARK KNIGHT, METALLIC RED |
| Price (Ex-showroom) | ₹2,06,312 (Starting) | ₹1,84,400 -- ₹1,89,400 (Based on Colours) |
Design and Styling
The KTM Duke 200 features a bold, naked streetfighter design with exposed frames, sharp tank shrouds, and an aggressive stance. The upright riding position offers excellent visibility and comfort in city traffic.
The Yamaha R15 flaunts its fully-faired, aerodynamic look inspired by Yamaha's R-series superbikes. Its sharp LED headlamps, sporty fairing, and crouched riding posture make it look track-ready.
Riders who love the raw street look will find the Duke 200 attractive, while those who prefer racing aesthetics will naturally gravitate towards the R15.
Engine Performance and Ride Feel
KTM Duke 200 Performance
The Duke 200's 199.5cc engine delivers thrilling city performance with instant throttle response. The bike feels alive in the mid-range and offers punchy acceleration. Its lightweight frame and precise steering make it easy to weave through traffic.
Yamaha R15 Performance
The Yamaha R15's 155cc engine might be smaller, but it uses VVA (Variable Valve Actuation) technology, which offers a smooth power band and impressive high-rev performance. It's a stable, refined machine with exceptional cornering ability, making it a great companion for track enthusiasts and highway riders.
Mileage and Fuel Efficiency Comparison
The KTM Duke 200 typically offers a mileage of around 35 kmpl in real-world city riding conditions.
The Yamaha R15 is far more fuel-efficient, delivering 45 kmpl, making it the better choice for daily commuters who care about long-term fuel savings.
Features and Technology:Street Smart vs. Racing Tech
KTM Duke 200 Features:
- Fully digital console
- Dual-channel ABS
- Trellis frame for better rigidity
- Sharp LED headlamp (new models)
Yamaha R15 Features:
- VVA (Variable Valve Actuation)
- Assist & slipper clutch
- Digital instrument cluster
- Dual-channel ABS
- Aerodynamic fairing for better wind resistance
Comfort, Ride Quality, and Usability:City vs. Track
The KTM Duke 200 is more city-friendly with its upright riding position, wider handlebars, and comfortable ergonomics. It's better for daily rides, especially for those who frequently navigate traffic.
The Yamaha R15 offers a more committed riding posture. Its crouched stance may be uncomfortable in stop-and-go traffic, but it shines on highways and twisty roads. Long rides might be challenging for some due to the aggressive seating angle.
Price and Value for Money
The KTM Duke 200 is priced around ₹2,06,312 (ex-showroom), offering a powerful 200cc engine, excellent build quality, and solid street presence.
The Yamaha R15 is priced between ₹1,84,400 -- ₹1,89,400 (Based on Colours) (ex-showroom), delivering top-class racing features, brilliant mileage, and a proven sports bike legacy.
Pros and Cons
| Bike | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| KTM Duke 200 | Aggressive styling, punchy performance, city comfort | Lower mileage, slightly higher price |
| Yamaha R15 | VVA tech, excellent mileage, track-like handling | Aggressive riding posture, less city comfort |
Best Fit for Rider Profiles
KTM Duke 200 is Ideal For:
- City commuters looking for powerful street bikes
- Riders who prefer upright seating and quick throttle response
- Aggressive, attention-grabbing design lovers
Yamaha R15 is Ideal For:
- Young riders dreaming of a track-style bike
- Daily commuters who prioritize mileage
- Weekend riders who enjoy twisties and occasional highway rides
Final Verdict
The KTM Duke 200 is the perfect bike for riders who want a bold, powerful streetfighter with sharp handling and strong street presence. It's a city king with punchy performance and quick maneuverability.
The Yamaha R15 is a fantastic option for those who want a sports bike that delivers excellent mileage, smooth highway stability, and cutting-edge technology like VVA and slipper clutch.
Both bikes are great in their own right. Riders should choose the Duke 200 if they want a more upright, aggressive, city-focused ride, and the Yamaha R15 if they prefer a fully-faired, race-ready motorcycle with better fuel economy.
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