Introduction

KTM has launched the 2026 KTM 990 RC R globally with full pricing, specifications, and a delivery timeline, marking the brand’s road-legal return to the supersport segment.

What’s new for 2026

• The production-spec 990 RC R debuts as a street-legal track weapon with MotoGP-derived aero, advanced electronics, and race-ready hardware.
• First units reach dealers from late November in key markets, with mass production starting October 2025, confirming the 2026 model year designation.
• A track-only KTM 990 RC R TRACK variant is scheduled for early February 2026, with no road-legal equipment.

Engine and performance

The 990 RC R uses KTM’s 947 cc LC8c parallel-twin, tuned for sharper top-end and a stronger track bias while remaining Euro 5+ compliant for road use. Claimed outputs stand at 130 PS (128 hp) at 9,500 rpm and 103 Nm at 6,750 rpm, aligning it squarely in the middleweight supersport class.

Chassis, brakes, and suspension

A steel trellis frame with a die-cast aluminum subframe targets front-end feel and stability under acceleration without dulling agility on tight sections. Stopping power comes via dual 320 mm front discs with Brembo Hypure 4-piston calipers, aided by a comprehensive cornering ABS suite. Fully adjustable WP APEX suspension (48 mm open-cartridge USD fork and linkage-equipped monoshock) delivers 130 mm of travel at both ends for setup flexibility.

Electronics and rider aids

An 8.8-inch TFT display fronts four standard riding modes – Rain, Street, Sport, and Custom – plus an optional Track pack that adds performance-focused settings and telemetry-style data. The IMU-backed suite includes cornering ABS with multiple modes and traction, wheelie, and launch control for repeatable laps and safer street manners.

Pricing and availability

• United States: Starting at $13,949 (MSRP), positioning the KTM aggressively against V-twin and inline/triple rivals in the segment.
• United Kingdom: £13,499, with first dealer arrivals slated for late November 2025 in orange or black liveries.
• Production begins October 2025, with the model officially classified as 2026; India launch remains unlikely at this stage.

Key specifications

• Engine: 947 cc LC8c parallel-twin, liquid-cooled, Euro 5+.
• Output: 130 PS (128 hp) @ 9,500 rpm; 103 Nm @ 6,750 rpm.
• Dry weight: 184 kg; fuel tank ~16 L.
• Brakes: Dual 320 mm front discs, Brembo Hypure calipers; cornering ABS suite.
• Suspension: Fully adjustable WP APEX 48 mm USD fork; fully adjustable WP APEX rear monoshock with linkage, 130 mm travel each end.
• Electronics: 8.8-inch TFT, 4 standard ride modes, optional Track pack, IMU-based aids.

Expert and brand commentary

KTM positions the 990 RC R as its long-awaited NextGen Supersport, carrying a focused READY TO RACE DNA to fill the gap in its portfolio since the RC8 era. Company communications emphasize complete readiness and innovation as production ramps, with the TRACK version set to amplify the platform’s circuit credentials in early 2026.

Competitive context

In the middleweight supersport space, the 990 RC R aims between higher-priced V-twin offerings and expected budget-leaning triples and inline-fours, leveraging advanced electronics and a compelling MSRP.

Comparison snapshot

Also read: KTM RC160 Officially Confirmed for India: A New Era of Supersport Begins

Delivery timeline and TRACK variant

KTM indicates production from October 2025 with dealer arrivals from late November in markets like the UK, bringing the first street bikes to customers ahead of year-end. A dedicated KTM 990 RC R TRACK, stripped of road gear and built purely for circuits, is due in early February 2026.

Closing note

If a street-legal track machine with serious electronics is on the wishlist, the KTM 990 RC R’s spec sheet and pricing make a strong case – especially with a factory TRACK version just months away.