The KTM 990 RC R has been officially launched for the 2026 model year, bringing a road-legal supersport with 130 PS and track-grade hardware to global markets, with US pricing starting at USD 13,949.
What’s New
KTM re-enters the big-capacity supersport space with a purpose-built, road-homologated machine tuned for track aggression and daily usability. Production begins October 2025 with the model designated as 2026MY, aligning deliveries with the revised schedule.
Engine and Performance
Under the fairing sits KTM’s 947 cc LC8c parallel-twin, tuned for a strong midrange and rev-happy top end. Claimed outputs are 130 PS and 103 Nm, paired to a 6-speed gearbox with quickshifter availability depending on market pack.
Chassis and Hardware
A steel trellis frame and diecast aluminum subframe deliver high stiffness and front-end feel for precise cornering. Fully adjustable WP APEX suspension and Brembo 4-piston Hypure calipers on twin 320 mm discs underline its track-first intent.
Electronics and Rider Aids
A 6-axis IMU powers lean-sensitive traction control, wheelie regulation, and launch control for consistent lap pace. Modes include Rain, Street, Sport, and Custom as standard, with an optional Track mode and an 8.8-inch TFT for telemetry and setup.
Key Specifications
- Engine: 947 cc LC8c parallel-twin; 130 PS; 103 Nm.
- Transmission: 6-speed; quickshifter availability varies by package.
- Brakes: 320 mm twin front discs; Brembo 4-piston Hypure; 240 mm rear.
- Suspension: WP APEX fully adjustable front and rear.
- Display: 8.8-inch TFT with connectivity and setup menus.
Pricing and Availability
The base MSRP in the United States is USD 13,949, positioning the 990 RC R as a strong value in the premium middleweight class. KTM confirms main production run beginning in October 2025, with dealer deliveries following thereafter.
Expert Commentary
“KTM 990 RC R is the expression we’ve wanted to deliver for some time,” said KTM Global Marketing’s Riaan Neveling, highlighting the brand’s READY TO RACE ethos. KTM’s development roadmap included delays and a production update, now resolved with a clear 2026 model designation and rollout.
Why It Matters
This is KTM’s first modern road-legal supersport since the RC8 era, blending real-world usability with serious track capability. With premium suspension, Brembo Hypure stoppers, and a comprehensive IMU suite, it brings big-bike feel to the middleweight supersport fight.
Track-Only Variant
A dedicated 990 RC R TRACK version is confirmed for early February 2026, stripping back for circuit focus and dealer-order availability. Expect reduced road hardware, focused ergonomics, and race-first calibration for riders chasing lap times.
Competitive Context
| Bike | Engine | Power/Torque | Positioning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ducati Panigale V2 | 955 cc L‑twin | ~155 hp / 104 Nm | Higher-spec and higher-priced twin-cylinder rival with more peak power. |
| Kawasaki Ninja ZX‑6R | 636 cc inline‑four | ~129 hp / ~71 Nm | Rev-happy four-cylinder middleweight benchmark for track days. |
| Honda CBR600RR | 599 cc inline‑four | ~119 hp / ~63 Nm | Track-centric inline-four with proven race pedigree. |
| Yamaha R9 | ~890 cc triple (expected) | TBA | Upcoming triple-cylinder alternative in the same price-performance window. |
Real-World Advantages
- Parallel-twin punch delivers accessible torque and lighter packaging for agile transitions.
- WP APEX adjustability and Brembo Hypure braking provide confidence on track and back roads.
- Ergonomics with adjustable clip-ons and footpegs tailor fit for street or circuit.
Call to Action
Riders eyeing a road-legal track weapon with everyday manners should book a demo as shipments begin, or register interest for the TRACK version due in early 2026.
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