KTM Duke 125 & RC 125 to discontinue due to lack of OBD-2B compliance
KTM India has confirmed that it will withdraw its 125cc models — the Duke 125 and the RC 125 — from the Indian market starting 1st April, 2025. Both motorcycles will be phased out as they will not receive the mandatory OBD-2B (On-Board Diagnostics) compliance update required under the upcoming emissions regulations.
A Brief Timeline
The KTM Duke 125 made its Indian debut in 2018, offering a more accessible entry point into the Austrian brand’s sporty line-up. Its fully-faired sibling, the RC 125, followed a few years later, catering to enthusiasts looking for an affordable, performance-oriented motorcycle in the 125cc segment.
KTM’s strategy at the time was to carve out a niche for premium 125cc motorcycles, aimed at young riders seeking a blend of sporty performance, brand value, and sharp styling. The models initially managed to attract a fair share of buyers, but over time, competition from established Japanese rivals such as the Yamaha R15 and MT-15 proved difficult to counter. Yamaha’s strong reputation, widespread service network and established fan following contributed to consistently higher sales in comparison.
Changing Priorities
While KTM India introduced periodic updates to keep the 125cc range relevant, the efforts didn’t yield the desired long-term sales traction. This, combined with the increasing costs associated with updating the engines to meet evolving emission norms, likely prompted the brand to reassess its priorities.
Rather than investing further in upgrading these models to meet OBD-2B norms, the company has decided to discontinue both the Duke 125 and RC 125. This move reflects a larger shift in KTM’s focus, possibly towards higher-capacity models that align more closely with the brand’s performance-oriented positioning in the Indian market.
Opportunities for Buyers
For potential buyers, this upcoming discontinuation also presents an opportunity. KTM dealerships are expected to clear existing stock before the April deadline, which could translate into attractive deals for interested customers. Offers could range from cash discounts to complimentary insurance or extended warranty packages, as dealers work to exhaust inventory.
Conclusion
With this strategic exit, KTM India seems to be consolidating its portfolio, prioritising models that better align with market demand and regulatory requirements. Enthusiasts interested in owning the Duke 125 or RC 125 have limited time to make a purchase before these motorcycles are officially retired from the Indian lineup.
