KTM Unveils Production-Ready 2026 KTM 990 RC R

KTM has officially revealed the production-ready 2026 KTM 990 RC R, marking the brand’s return to the supersport spotlight since discontinuing the RC8 in 2015. After nearly a decade of focusing on naked and adventure motorcycles, the RC R revives KTM’s sportbike legacy with modern engineering and racing DNA.

Developed over several years using insights from KTM’s R&D and motorsport programs, KTM claims that the new 990 RC R is engineered for both the road and the racetrack, combining high-performance capability with everyday usability.

Fabricated and assembled in Austria, this supersport motorcycle features a steel tubular chassis paired with a die-cast aluminum subframe, designed to provide exceptional front-end feel and stability under acceleration while retaining sharp agility.

Power comes from a 57kg LC8c parallel-twin engine producing 130hp and 103nm of torque, an upgrade from the 990 Duke’s 123hp output. The performance is complemented by WP APEX suspension, Brembo 4-piston Hypure brakes, and an advanced 8.8-inch TFT display offering four standard ride modes: Rain, Street, Sport, and Custom. Optional Track and additional custom modes unlock even more adjustability, alongside telemetry features that record lean angles, throttle input, and acceleration data.

Riders also benefit from four ABS settings: Street, Sport, Supermoto, and Supermoto+, for varying levels of intervention. KTM emphasizes that despite its aggressive ergonomics, the RC R is surprisingly accommodating, with adjustable footrests, supportive knee grips, and improved comfort for longer rides. A 16-liter fuel tank ensures decent range, while two color options, orange or black, highlight its race-inspired styling.

Production of the 990 RC R begins this month, positioning it squarely against middleweight supersport rivals such as the Kawasaki ZX-6R, Ducati Panigale V2, Yamaha R9, and Honda CBR600RR.

KTM has also confirmed that a track-only variant will debut in February 2026. This version will feature race-specific upgrades, including a simplified dashboard, dedicated electronics, a removed ABS modulator, direct brake lines, and a track-optimized gearbox. Full technical details for the track model will be announced at launch.

As of now, KTM has not revealed official pricing or availability for the Philippine market, but given the brand’s expanding lineup in Asia, we are hopeful the RC R will make its way to local showrooms soon.