After nearly a decade, KTM has made its long-awaited return to the supersport segment with the official unveiling of the production-ready KTM 990 RC R. Slated for the 2026 model year, the new 990 RC R represents a perfect blend of road and track performance — sharp, purposeful, and unapologetically aggressive.
This new motorcycle finally steps into the shoes of the legendary RC8, which was discontinued back in 2015. With years of development, aerodynamic testing, and feedback from KTM’s racing programs, the 990 RC R brings back the raw excitement that made the brand’s superbikes so iconic.
Design and Aerodynamics: Race DNA Refined for the Street
KTM has always prioritized functionality over frills, and the new 990 RC R continues that tradition — but with an added dose of refinement. Every inch of the bodywork has been sculpted in KTM’s Austrian facility, combining wind-tunnel aerodynamics with real-world racing data.
Highlights of the Design:
- Sleek, layered bodywork with sharp lines reminiscent of MotoGP machines.
- Compact LED headlamps integrated into the fairing, emphasizing aerodynamic efficiency.
- Dual-tone color themes — striking Orange/Black combinations that represent KTM’s iconic identity.
- Adjustable rearsets and clip-on handlebars designed to balance track aggression with street comfort.
The aerodynamics have been tuned not just for top-end speed but also for cornering stability and braking confidence. Air ducts channel airflow directly over the radiator and rider, reducing drag and enhancing stability at high speed.
Engine and Performance: LC8c Power, Perfected
At the heart of the KTM 990 RC R lies the familiar LC8c parallel-twin engine, now tuned to deliver even sharper response and higher output.
Engine Specifications:
- Displacement: 947 cc (LC8c twin-cylinder)
- Power Output: 130 hp @ 10,500 rpm
- Torque: 103 Nm @ 8,000 rpm
- Cooling System: Liquid-cooled
- Gearbox: 6-speed with quickshifter
This same powerplant is found in the 990 Duke, but KTM engineers have extracted an additional 7 hp for the RC R by revising intake mapping, optimizing valve timing, and improving cooling.
The result is an engine that thrives on revs but remains manageable in daily riding. KTM claims that the torque curve is flatter, offering strong pull from low and mid-range rpm — ideal for both twisty roads and track days.
Chassis and Handling: Engineered for Precision
KTM’s expertise in lightweight chassis design shines here. The 990 RC R uses a steel tubular frame with a die-cast aluminum subframe for enhanced stiffness and reduced weight.
This combination provides razor-sharp handling characteristics, giving riders that signature KTM “feel” at the front end. The setup promises confidence under both braking and acceleration, ensuring maximum grip even in aggressive cornering situations.
Suspension Setup:
- Front: Fully adjustable WP APEX USD forks
- Rear: WP APEX monoshock with preload and rebound adjustability
These premium components allow riders to fine-tune damping and rebound for street comfort or track precision — truly a dual-purpose supersport.
Braking and Electronics: Track-Ready Intelligence
Braking duties are managed by Brembo Hypure 4-piston calipers, paired with 320 mm front discs that provide exceptional stopping power.
The electronic safety net of the 990 RC R is powered by KTM’s latest IMU-based system, featuring:
- Four Riding Modes: Rain, Street, Sport, and Custom
- Optional Track Package: Adds “Track” and two fully programmable Custom 2 modes
- Four ABS Modes: Street ABS, Sport ABS, Supermoto ABS, and the extreme Supermoto+ ABS
- Lean-angle & throttle telemetry: Records real-time performance metrics like lean angle, throttle position, and acceleration patterns
All of this data is presented through a massive 8.8-inch TFT display — one of the largest dashboards in its class. The interface is sharp, responsive, and designed to be easily readable in direct sunlight or during night rides.
Ergonomics and Comfort: Aggressive but Adaptable
While the 990 RC R is unmistakably a race-bred machine, KTM has not ignored rider comfort. Engineers ensured that despite its forward-biased ergonomics, the bike accommodates riders of various heights.
Comfort Details:
- Adjustable footrests to tailor riding posture
- Sculpted fuel tank (16 litres) with knee cutouts for better grip
- Tapered clip-ons that reduce wrist strain on long rides
- Optimized seat padding for track and touring balance
The chassis’ geometry has been tuned to ensure stability at high speed while maintaining agility for quick direction changes — a crucial factor that separates this bike from traditional sportbikes.
Build Quality and Materials: Pure Austrian Craftsmanship
True to its heritage, the KTM 990 RC R is manufactured and assembled entirely in Austria. From the frame welds to the engine finishing, the attention to detail is evident.
Lightweight alloy components, precision machining, and high-grade fasteners have been used throughout the motorcycle. Even the fairing panels are designed for quick release, allowing easy access during track maintenance or customization.
Variants: Street Version & Track-Spec Model
KTM confirmed two variants of the 990 RC R lineup — the standard street version and a dedicated track-spec edition launching in February 2026.
Track-Spec KTM 990 RC R Highlights:
- Reduced dashboard cluster for minimal distraction
- Dedicated racing electronics with custom calibration
- ABS system removed and replaced with direct brake lines
- Track-tuned gearbox ratios for smoother upshifts
- Weight reduction through component deletion
This version will cater exclusively to riders and teams participating in club racing or professional circuits. It’s expected to be available in limited numbers via KTM’s authorized racing dealers.
Rivals and Market Positioning
When it hits dealerships, the 990 RC R will lock horns with formidable competitors in the middleweight supersport segment:
- Ducati Panigale V2
- Yamaha R9 (upcoming)
- Kawasaki ZX-6R
- Honda CBR600RR
KTM’s strength lies in its power-to-weight ratio and electronics package, which together deliver a thrilling and accessible riding experience. Unlike litre-class superbikes, the 990 RC R offers performance you can actually exploit on public roads without overwhelming the rider.
Launch Timeline and Availability
Production for the KTM 990 RC R begins this month, with global deliveries expected to start in early 2026.
- Bookings: Through authorized KTM dealerships worldwide
- India Availability: Expected in the second half of 2026
- Colors: Orange and Black (official launch schemes)
Pricing details remain under wraps, but industry expectations suggest the motorcycle could start around ₹15–17 lakh (ex-showroom) in India, depending on localization and import duties.
Conclusion: KTM’s Supersport Revival Is Complete
With the launch of the KTM 990 RC R, the Austrian manufacturer has officially reignited its supersport legacy. The motorcycle combines precision engineering, cutting-edge electronics, and real racing pedigree — all wrapped in a lightweight, beautifully aggressive package.
For enthusiasts who have been waiting since the RC8’s discontinuation, this isn’t just another new model — it’s the spiritual rebirth of KTM’s sportbike identity.
Whether carving through mountain roads or chasing lap times at the circuit, the 990 RC R promises pure, unfiltered adrenaline — the kind of mechanical intensity that defines KTM’s “Ready to Race” philosophy.
