KTM has unveiled the upcoming 990 RC R prototype, which will go on to be its all-new flagship road-homologated sports bike. Back in 2015, KTM discontinued the RC8 and announced that it would halt production of its street-legal superbikes and focus on making naked and adventure motorcycles. Well, the 990 RC R is the successor to the RC8 and focuses on building on its legacy. Images currently showcase a camouflaged prototype, and the full design has yet to be unveiled.
- Powered by a 947cc LC8c parallel twin producing 128hp and 103Nm
- Will have a steel frame and diecast aluminum subframe
- 990 RC R will have a fully adjustable WP Apex suspension
KTM has disclosed that the 990 RC R will be powered by a 947cc LC8c parallel twin, producing a claimed 128hp and 103Nm. The same motor produces 123hp and 103Nm in the current 990 Duke. The 990 RC R will have a steel frame and diecast aluminium subframe that KTM says has an increased weight bias towards the front end. KTM also claims to have beefed up the stiffness of the 990 RC R chassis for increased stability under acceleration and better agility.
The 990 RC R will have fully adjustable WP Apex open cartridge suspension and cast aluminium wheels wrapped in Michelin tyres. KTM has designed this motorcycle inside a wind tunnel and equipped it with aero wings inspired by its MotoGP bikes, which KTM claims add extra stability for braking and cornering. KTM also mentioned that engineers have spent much time ensuring a comfortable balance between street and track ergonomics.
The last time KTM made a road-legal sports bike was the 1190 RC8 and the RC8 R, which have since been discontinued. KTM also briefly produced a limited edition, track-only RC 8C, which was sold out.
The RC 990 R will also spawn a track edition that will strip away all road-legal necessities and add bits like protective parts for the motorcycle as well as a full-system Akrapovic exhaust. KTM has also made no bones about the intent of the RC 990 R as a focused supersport and has said the base bike will need "minimal modifications" to go from street-spec to track-spec.
After a long hiatus, KTM has made a bold decision to return to the middleweight segment, where it will be competing with the likes of the Kawasaki ZX6R, Ducati Panigale V2 and the Honda CBR600RR. This exciting move is sure to stir up the competition and keep motorcycle enthusiasts on the edge of their seats.