New KTM 990 RC R 2026

KTM is expanding its RC family with the street-legal mid-range model, the KTM 990 RC R 2025. This motorcycle is powered by the LC8c twin-cylinder engine and is designed, according to the manufacturer, to consistently appeal to supersport fans seeking a track experience even in everyday riding.

At the heart of the KTM 990 RC R lies the renowned LC8c twin-cylinder engine with a displacement of 947 cc. This engine delivers 130 HP at 9,500 rpm and 103 Nm of torque at 6,750 rpm. The engine weighs in at 57.2 kg. The engine from the 990 Duke has been specifically retuned for the RC R, allowing the throttle valves to open fully, which KTM claims enhances throttle response. A new airbox is integrated directly into the aluminum die-cast subframe, featuring side-mounted intake openings.

The exhaust system is made of stainless steel, featuring a centrally positioned muffler and a short end silencer unit to enhance mass centralization. Three lambda sensors ensure precise control of the combustion process.

Engineered for sporty performance, the steel frame chassis of the KTM 990 RC R combines a stable front end with high agility, thanks to an offset geometry of 33 mm and a steering angle of 25°. The swingarm, debuting a new linkage system in an LC8c model, is designed for a balanced stiffness-to-flex ratio, ensuring confidence during braking and acceleration across diverse surfaces. Suspension components are supplied by WP.

Front: WP APEX Open Cartridge USD fork, 48 mm, 147 mm travel - 30 clicks for compression & rebound, 3 turns for preload

Rear: WP APEX Monoshock, 134 mm travel - 30 clicks low-speed compression, 3 turns high-speed compression, 30 clicks rebound

According to KTM, the base tuning was developed on the racetrack but optimized for street comfort.

Despite its supersport layout, KTM claims to place great emphasis on everyday practicality. The seat height is 845 mm. The forged aluminum footpegs are adjustable in two positions:

• STREET: moderate knee angle, suitable for longer rides
• TRACK: 25 mm rearward, 17 mm higher, for deeper lean angles

The clip-on handlebars are fixed but mounted further forward and flatter for better pressure on the front wheel. According to KTM, the tank shape offers six contact points for braking, cornering, and the classic "tuck-in" at top speed.

The full fairing with integrated winglets is claimed by the manufacturer to generate over 14.4 kg of downforce at 252 km/h. Targeted air channels also support engine cooling. The windshield is designed for racing but, according to KTM, also offers greater riding comfort. Headlights, turn signals, and taillight are fully LED. The front mask with integrated headlight is aerodynamically shaped but offers no air intake—the design is intended to be purely functional.

The centerpiece of the electronics is the new 8.8-inch TFT display in landscape format. It features a split-screen function (5 variants), favorites lists, map, telemetry, music control, and a customizable control layout via the new switch cubes with haptic feedback.

Riding Modes (Standard):

• RAIN
• STREET
• SPORT
• CUSTOM
• TRACK (optional)

ABS Modes (Included):

• STREET ABS
• SPORT ABS (allows slight rear lift)
• SUPERMOTO ABS
• SUPERMOTO+ ABS (limited slide angle of 8°)

Standard Features Include:

• TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) with second wheel set memory
• Heated grips
• Coming Home Light (3 levels)
• KTMConnect App with turn-by-turn navigation
• Connectivity unit for music, calls, weather

Available as Options:

TRACK PACK:

• Launch Control
• Anti-Wheelie (5 levels)
• 2 Custom Modes
• Lap Timer
• MTC Slip Adjuster
• Customizable Throttle Response

TECH PACK:

• All TRACK PACK features
• Cruise Control
• Quickshifter+
• Motor Slip Regulation (MSR)
• Adaptive Brake Light

Demo Mode:

All features unlocked for 1,500 km - selectable thereafter.

Braking is handled by Brembo HyPure four-piston calipers on dual 320 mm discs at the front. A 240 mm disc takes care of the rear. The braking system is radially mounted and, according to the manufacturer, provides exceptionally precise feedback, featuring a PR16/19-21 master cylinder with 3 adjustment levels for the leverage ratio. The bike is equipped with Michelin Power Cup 2 tires. Electronic systems are calibrated for this tire profile. Wheel dimensions: 17 x 3.5 at the front, 17 x 5.5 at the rear—the same wheels as on the 1390 Super Duke R.

The KTM 990 RC R comes with a 4-year premium warranty, provided the service plan is adhered to at authorized partners. The bike will be available from October 2025, with a non-street-legal track version expected in spring 2026. The list price is set at 17,399 euros in Austria and 15,490 euros in Germany.

However, Martin Bauer will be testing the new 990 RC R this week—stay tuned for all the insights here on 1000PS!