KTM has finally pulled the covers off its all-new 990 RC R, marking the brand’s big comeback to the Supersport category. After nearly a decade since the RC8’s discontinuation in 2015, KTM is ready to bring back that pure racing DNA — sharper, faster, and bolder than ever.
The KTM 990 RC R is being hailed as the spiritual successor to the RC8, combining track-inspired performance with modern street-ready engineering. Here’s everything you need to know about the latest addition to KTM’s high-performance lineup.
KTM 990 RC R: Engine and Performance
At the heart of the new 990 RC R is a 57kg Euro 5+ compliant LC8c engine, tuned to deliver an impressive 128 horsepower and 103 Nm of torque.
This engine isn’t just about numbers — it’s designed to deliver pure adrenaline. The LC8c powertrain is lightweight, compact, and built for high-rev performance, making it ideal for riders who crave precision and control on both road and track.
KTM says this engine forms the foundation of a new performance platform that will “reset the perception of performance, style, and fun” in the middleweight Supersport segment.
Built and Designed in Austria
Like its predecessors, the KTM 990 RC R is designed, fabricated, and assembled in Austria, staying true to KTM’s engineering roots.
The bike features a purpose-built steel chassis paired with a die-cast aluminum subframe. This setup ensures excellent rigidity and stability, especially under hard acceleration or sharp cornering.
KTM has poured years of R&D and aerodynamic testing from its Motorsport program into this model. Every curve, vent, and surface has been shaped for maximum airflow efficiency and rider stability at high speeds.
Aerodynamics and Design
The KTM 990 RC R looks every bit the Supersport beast it’s meant to be. Its design takes direct inspiration from MotoGP racing bikes, with sleek, wind-tunnel-tested bodywork that prioritizes downforce and drag reduction.
The fairing design channels air efficiently, while the aggressive front fascia, low-slung tail section, and sculpted tank give it a track-focused stance.
KTM’s signature orange and black color scheme adds the perfect touch of aggression and identity — unmistakably KTM.
Hardware and Suspension
Performance is only as good as the hardware supporting it, and KTM has gone all-in here. The 990 RC R features top-of-the-line WP APEX suspension, tuned for precision handling and comfort.
Braking duties are handled by 320mm Brembo HyPure brakes with 4-piston calipers, ensuring unmatched stopping power even under intense riding conditions.
KTM says the combination of suspension and braking systems gives riders a “primed front-end feel” — stable, confident, and direct, whether on sharp bends or long straights.
Tech and Features
As expected from a modern Supersport, the KTM 990 RC R is packed with electronics and rider aids. It features a large 8.8-inch full-color TFT display, which serves as the control hub for all the bike’s advanced settings.
Ride Modes
The 990 RC R offers multiple riding modes, each tailored for different riding conditions:
Rain, Street, Sport, and Custom come standard, while Track Mode and two additional Custom Modes are optional upgrades.
The system allows riders to adjust traction control, throttle response, and ABS intervention — helping fine-tune performance to match their skill and terrain.
ABS Modes
For braking, KTM offers four advanced ABS settings:
Street, Sport, Supermoto+, and Supermoto ABS.
These modes allow precise control over braking dynamics — perfect for those who like switching between road comfort and track aggression.
Performance Meets Intelligence
The 990 RC R also includes telemetry functions that track lean angle, throttle opening, and acceleration rates in real time. These features are not just for show — they help riders improve lap times, refine technique, and enhance their overall riding experience.
The level of detail in this data system reflects KTM’s growing focus on AI-assisted performance analytics, something that’s slowly making its way into high-end motorcycles globally.
Launch Timeline and Availability
KTM has confirmed that production of the 990 RC R will begin in October 2025 at its Austrian facility. Soon after, the motorcycle will start reaching authorized KTM dealerships globally.
While the company hasn’t revealed the exact launch timeline for India yet, it’s expected that the KTM 990 RC R India launch could happen by early 2026, given KTM’s strong market presence in the country.
A True RC8 Successor
The KTM 990 RC R isn’t just a new motorcycle — it’s a revival of the RC8 legacy, blending modern engineering with raw Supersport aggression.
Its lightweight build, track-bred aerodynamics, and cutting-edge electronics make it one of the most anticipated motorcycles of the year.
For KTM fans who’ve been waiting for a proper successor to the legendary RC8, the wait is finally over.
