KTM 990 RC R sportsbike confirmed for 2025

KTM has revealed a prototype of its first road-legal and full-size sportsbike in almost a decade, with the new 990 RC R set to arrive in early 2025.

Powered by the proven LC8c platform, the new KTM 990 RC R will be good for a claimed 103Nm at 10,500rpm and 126hp.

The bike rolls on a steel frame that is tuned for sports performance, as well as a diecast aluminium subframe. Suspension is handled by WP APEX open cartridge equipment, while the lightweight cast alloy wheels are fitted with Michelin rubber. The bike also features Brembo brakes, an aggressive ride position, and wind-tunnel aero wings.

Full specification is yet to be revealed, but it KTM says the 990 RC R is an all-new purpose-built motorcycle.

"A lot of fans might think it's just a 990 Duke with fairings on it, (but) I can tell you now, it's absolutely not that," said KTM Head of Global Marketing, Riaan Neveling. "The team literally built this bike from the ground up."

KTM has also confirmed that there will be a 990 RC R Track version, which will likely add even more race-focused equipment.

The current 990 RC R prototype will be raced in non-point scoring appearances across the European Supersport series, in a bid to further develop its racing credentials before it goes into production later this year.

KTM’s growing presence in the MotoGP paddock and a renewed customer interest in sportsbikes are likely catalysts for the Austrian firm’s move into the supersport genre.

The last full-size, road-legal sportsbike from KTM was the 1190 RC8 R which was discontinued in 2015. The firm also has the LAMS approved, single-cylinder RC 390 and the track-only RC 8C, which is produced in very small numbers and sells like hotcakes.

But the addition of the 990 RC R to the KTM stable now gives the company a legitimate mass-produced supersport option alongside its popular Duke naked range, and helps it further shed its reputation as a dirt-only brand.

Further details on the new KTM 990 RC R are expected to be revealed in a new documentary series. The first episode is now live on YouTube.