Oh man, if you’re into bikes that make your heart race just looking at them, buckle up because KTM just dropped the hammer on the 2026 990 RC R. Announced fresh out of their Austrian labs on October 14, 2025, this thing is basically KTM’s way of saying, “We’re back, and we’re meaner than ever.” After a rough patch with financial drama and production hiccups, the Orange Boys are roaring into the supersport scene with a machine that’s equal parts street smarts and track terror. Production kicks off next month, with bikes hitting dealers by late November—talk about perfect timing for winter warm-ups that turn into spring track days.
I mean, let’s be real: KTM hasn’t had a proper street-legal supersport in the game since the RC8 R bowed out over a decade ago. The RC 8C was a tease—track-only and limited—but the 990 RC R? This one’s for us mortals who want to drag a knee on the road before hitting the circuit. It’s built on MotoGP-inspired data, with aero tweaks that scream racing pedigree, and it’s got that aggressive stance that makes you feel like a pro just sitting on it. Spy shots had us guessing for months, but now the prototype’s out, and it’s even sharper: sleek fairings, a beefed-up steel trellis frame, and those signature winglets for downforce that keep you glued at triple-digit speeds.
Power-wise, it’s no slouch. That LC8c parallel-twin—tuned from the 990 Duke but rev-happier—churns out 130 PS at 9,500 rpm and a gutsy 103 Nm at 6,750 rpm. We’re talking quickshifter, ride modes, and cornering ABS that let you push without pucker factor. And the price? A steal at around $13,949 stateside (or £13,499 in the UK), undercutting the Ducati Panigale V2 while packing similar punch. It’s gunning straight for the Yamaha R9 and Kawasaki ZX-6R, but with KTM’s raw, unfiltered attitude.
Want the nitty-gritty? Here’s a quick rundown of the key specs to geek out over:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 947cc LC8c parallel-twin |
| Power | 130 PS (128 hp) @ 9,500 rpm |
| Torque | 103 Nm @ 6,750 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed with bidirectional quickshifter |
| Frame | Steel trellis with aluminum subframe |
| Suspension (Front) | WP Apex 43mm fully adjustable USD fork, 120mm travel |
| Suspension (Rear) | WP Apex fully adjustable shock, 140mm travel |
| Brakes (Front) | Dual 320mm discs, Brembo Stylema 4-piston calipers |
| Brakes (Rear) | Single 220mm disc, Brembo 2-piston caliper |
| Tires (Front/Rear) | 120/70-17 / 180/55-17 |
| Wheelbase | 1,400 mm |
| Seat Height | 835 mm |
| Weight (Wet) | 179 kg |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.5 liters |
| Price (US MSRP) | $13,949 |
The real kicker? There’s a track-only TRACK edition coming in Q2 2026, stripping out the street bits for even more aggression—think lighter weight, no mirrors, and pure race setup. KTM’s even launching a CUP series for it, so if you’re feeling competitive, this could be your ticket to the podium. Forums are already lighting up with hype; one Reddit thread’s got riders debating if it’ll smoke the Duke on twisties or if the ergo’s too racy for daily jaunts. Me? I’m sold—finally, a supersport that doesn’t require a second mortgage.
KTM’s turnaround feels legit with this one. If you’re itching for a test ride, hit up your dealer soon—these’ll fly off the shelves faster than a MotoGP start. What’s your take—game-changer or just another pretty face? Drop it below; I’m all ears.