KTM 990 RC R Launched Abroad: KTM’s ONLY Road Legal Track Weapon

Quick Read: 

• KTM 990 RC R shares the same engine as the 990 Duke

• Costs USD 13,949 (approximately Rs 12.38 lakh)

• Unlikely to launch in India anytime soon

The all-new KTM 990 RC R, a machine that signals the Austrian brand’s re-entry into the large capacity supersport segment. For enthusiasts who are fond of the raw and radical (but track only) KTM RC 8C, the new 990 RC R feels like the long-awaited sequel that’s finally capable of tearing through the streets.

Instead of going all-out MotoGP-level superbike, KTM seems to have aimed for a sweet spot between road usability and track aggression. The 990 RC R builds upon the 990 Duke platform, carrying over its LC8c parallel-twin engine but wrapping it in aerodynamic fairings, race-ready hardware, and a distinctly-KTM design language.

The Orange Returns To Supersport

At the centre of the 990 RC R sits a 947cc parallel-twin engine putting out 130PS and 103Nm, figures that place it neatly among today’s middleweight sport bikes. The engine is tuned differently from the Duke, with mapping and exhaust tweaks designed to deliver a smoother throttle response and stronger top-end.

The chassis continues to use KTM’s steel trellis frame, paired with an aluminium swingarm and fully adjustable WP Apex suspension at both ends. The braking setup includes twin 320mm front discs, a single 240mm rear unit, and it also gets a 6-axis IMU (of course it should).

Aiding the electronics is a comprehensive suite that includes traction control, wheelie regulation, launch control, and multiple riding modes: Rain, Street, Sport, and Performance, with a Track pack available optionally. A new 8.8-inch TFT console with smartphone connectivity and race telemetry sits behind the windscreen, integrating all the tech.

Form Meets Function

Visually, the 990 RC R looks every bit a KTM. Sharp, angular, and unapologetically aggressive. The fairing with winglets integrated into the side panels, and a tall tail section, look similar to that of Moto2 machinery. Adjustable ergonomics mean the rider can fine-tune footpeg and lever positions to suit track or street duties.

Production and Availability

KTM had confirmed that due to a revised production schedule (here’s why), the 990 RC R’s main production run will start in October 2025. As a result, the motorcycle originally planned as a 2025 model has officially transitioned to the 2026 model year, and it has been launched in the US with prices starting at USD 13,949 (approximately Rs 12.38 lakh). 

While KTM has a small lineup of big bikes in India, the 990 RC R isn’t going to be one of them. However, if you’re looking for a capable supersport like this one, you may take a look at the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R that offers almost similar levels of performance wrapped in a sweet inline-four package. Remember the iconic KTM 1190 RC8 that made us go ga-ga at KTM showrooms in India? Well, the 990 RC R seems like a fitting sequel to the track tamer, albeit in a smaller package.