All-new KTM 990 RC R headed for Australia in 2026

The long-awaited KTM 990 RC R sportsbike is headed for Australia soon, marking the Austrian brand’s first full-size, road-legal supersport in more than a decade.

First confirmed in May 2024, the new KTM 990 RC R is expected to arrive on Australian shores in early 2026, with the first units already rolling off production lines.

KTM describes the MotoGP-inspired 990 RC R as a “high-spec” model, equipped with performance-focused components designed for both street and track use.

Power comes from a 947cc parallel-twin LC8c engine that weighs just 57kg and produces a claimed 128hp and 103Nm of torque.

Bodywork and ergonomics have been designed to offer a good blend between sports and everyday riding, but the aluminium footpegs can be adjusted for street or track riding. Seat height sits at 845mm while the bike weighs in at 194kg fully fuelled. The fuel capacity is a generous 15.7L.

The 990 RC R also features 320mm Brembo four-piston HyPure brakes on the front, fully adjustable WP APEX suspension, Michelin Power Cup 2 tyres, and an 8.8-inch TFT display.

Electronic aids include three standard ride modes plus a custom mode, cornering ABS and traction control, map navigation, and smartphone connectivity.

Additional features are available through two optional upgrade packages, which bundle in Track mode, extra custom modes, anti-wheelie control, launch control, onboard telemetry, cruise control, a quickshifter, motor slip regulation, adjustable traction control, and variable throttle response.

KTM also plans to launch a dedicated track-only version of the 990 RC R in February 2026.

The brand’s last full-size, road-legal sportsbike was the 1190 RC8 R, discontinued in 2015. Since then, KTM has focused on its single-cylinder, learner-friendly RC 390 and the track-only RC 8C. However, its growing MotoGP presence and renewed market interest in middleweight sportsbikes have spurred development of the 990 RC R.

Developed from the ground up, the all-new model was quietly shown at EICMA in Milan last November before KTM’s financial challenges temporarily paused production.

Local pricing for the 2026 KTM 990 RC R is yet to be announced, but KTM Australia expects the first examples to reach showrooms in the first quarter of 2026.