In KTM’s current lineup, the only street-legal, track-focused sportbike is the RC 390. The RC 8C is a track-only, hom*ologation special limited to 100 units. KTM hasn’t offered a street-legal, liter-class supersport since the 1190 RC8, which was produced from 2008-2015. But starting in 2025, the KTM 990 RC R will fill that hole in the lineup. Read KTM’s full press release below for the inside scoop. Click here for details as well as the first episode in the 990 RC R documentary series.
Related: 2024 KTM 990 Duke Review | First Ride
KTM Roars Ahead: Unleashing the Dominant KTM 990 RC R Range
The KTM 990 RC R, which is set to roll off the Mattighofen production line in early 2025, has a dedicated Supersport persona but will be hom*ologated for street use, catering to the desires of orange enthusiasts fixated on track days and individuals seeking to maintain the adrenaline rush with an exceptionally capable street bike. The all-new development embodies the fusion of Austrian engineering excellence and the ferocious racing DNA, delivering unrivaled performance while embracing the practical demands of the road.
The 990 RC R will excite enthusiasts with its street hom*ologated model, but its race DNA will be intentionally unveiled in early 2024 in the form of a prototype, making appearances as a wildcard entry in non-point scoring outings across select European Supersport series, igniting anticipation among fans. KTM believes in developing this newcomer to their stable in the most READY TO RACE way possible – through racing.
KTM is also filming a multi-part behind-the-scenes documentary about the R&D journey of the bike and its entry into the Supersport sector. This exclusive behind-the-scenes content will give viewers close, and not usually seen, insights into the fast-paced world of the Austrian-based factory and what it takes to craft a motorcycle from an idea into reality. Follow the final stages of the research and development process moving all the way from the very beginning to the final unveiling of the finished street hom*ologated version of the 990 RC R. Click HERE for the inside scoop.
KTM 990 RC R: The Purpose
Over the last fifteen years, KTM metered sport-orientated road products to the public at a time when the company was extending its off-road racing prowess to the asphalt: the KTM RC8, the KTM RC 390 and the track-only, limited edition KTM RC 8C were the prime examples.
Across that period KTM has merged R&D, learning, and roadracing accomplishments at a rapid rate. The company now caters to motorcyclists seeking a machine born from competition yet engineered to be the ultimate, advanced street tool. The search to minimize hard compromises brought on by overly sporty ergonomics and handling is over. The 990 RC R has been years in the making and with a wealth of data garnered by titles and trophies in almost every category of various MotoGP categories. The bike represents the natural evolution of the current KTM RC line-up, yet its sporting potential allows for a straightforward conversion into a 990 RC R TRACK edition. True to the READY TO RACE ethos, this edition is poised to make its debut in the second quarter of 2025.
KTM 990 RC R: The Product(s)
The street hom*ologated 990 RC R boasts an LC8c powerplant, honed for rasping torque and horsepower, pumped out through the new ergo-crafted and condensed stainless steel muffler and fettled through a shifter that can be reversed to race-shift as standard.
The steel frame has been engineered for dynamic performance, with increased weight bias towards the front end. It features a dedicated steering head angle of 25 degrees and offset for enhanced steering responsiveness. Beefed-up stiffness gives the right feel and stability under acceleration on bumpy roads or on racetracks while also maintaining agility, especially at low speeds. A diecast aluminum subframe contributes to the ride.
Ergonomics are key to the 990 RC R’s behavior. Lengthy experimentation primed the six contact points on the tank for a better connection, leaning and ‘tucking in’ to ensure comfort but also support for knees, arms, and lower pressure on the hands. A new fuel tank has been shaped as a main component of the ergo. Adjustable footrests play a part, as well as the fully adjustable WP APEX Open Cartridge Suspension and light weight cast aluminum wheels wrapped in Michelin tires.
The MotoGP heritage is evident with the wind-tunnel-chiseled aero wings that provide stability for braking and cornering and other edges and profiling around the bodywork that screams ‘racer.’
If there were any lingering doubts about the bike’s intended purpose, the minimal modifications required for the transition to the KTM 990 RC R TRACK edition should indisputably reinforce its racing pedigree. Crafted by KTM in their Austrian factory, the modifications strip away the road-legal essentials, incorporate protective components, fine-tune adjustments, customize further, and revise racing bodywork, including a full exhaust system. These modifications ensure that riders focus on lap times rather than leisurely rides. Additionally, the ease of repair, low maintenance requirements, and extensive official dealer support provide further advantages.
KTM 990 RC R: The Promise
“The KTM 990 RC R is a groundbreaking innovation for those who live for the thrill of cornering. It’s for those who lean close to the road, almost brushing their knees, and then push the limits, dragging elbow to the tarmac on the racetrack. This bike offers power and prestige without the exorbitant price tag. At last, we can unveil our KTM 990 RC R and introduce a truly exceptional motorcycle to dealerships in early 2025, fulfilling the anticipation of countless riders and race enthusiasts. Our Duke range and other street products have garnered a loyal following for their distinct character; we believe the KTM 990 RC R will quickly attain cult status because it excels at the two things it was designed for so remarkably well. Success will be evident on the track, but the unparalleled experience for customers on the road will truly set it apart.” – Riaan Neveling, Head of KTM Global Marketing
The countdown to early 2025 starts right now. Follow the final stages of development in the special documentary video series by clicking here.
Check out more new bikes in Rider’s 2024 Motorcycle Buyers Guide
