KTM Supersport Motorcycles Return with 2026 990 RC R
Austrian motorcycling icon KTM has revealed the details of the new 2026 990 RC R. This motorcycle marks the brand’s highly-anticipated return to the supersport category with a fully-faired, publicly available, street-legal machine.
The new bike builds on the legacy of the RC8 R, which was discontinued in 2015. Yet, it’s bodywork also pays homage to the RC16 MotoGP bike.
With that, the bike promises to be high-performing speed demon fit both for the street and the track. It takes the lessons KTM has learned in competitions and making them accessible to the regular rider, an approach the built the company’s fame in the first place.
So, what does the 990 RC R have to offer?
Powering the platform is KTM’s LC8c engine that has been slimmed down, coming in at a mere 126 pounds. This 947cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin has been tuned to milk extra horsepower out of it, and it puts out a respectable 130 ponies and 76 lb-ft of torque.
The engine is paired with a six-speed transmission and a cable-operated power-assisted slipper clutch (PASC). KTM’s Quickshifter+ is available as an optional update. If it performs anything like the quickshifter on the KTM 390 Adventure R and Enduro R, though, it’s not really optional—you will want it.
The powerplant acts as a stressed member in the tubular steel frame, which combines with a new die-cast aluminum subframe. KTM has stripped about a pound off the subframe weight as well, bringing the 990 RC R’s total wet weight to 430 pounds.
Suspension components come from WP Apex. In the front, the bike has a fully adjustable 48mm fork with 5.7 inches of travel, while in the rear we have a similarly adjustable monoshock with 5.2 travel inches.
Braking duties are handled by dual radially mounted Brembo HyPure four-piston calipers in the front, which grab a 320mm floating disc. The rear brake consists of a 240mm disc with a single-piston caliper.
An 8.8-inch TFT touchscreen acts as an instrument panel and control the electronics suite. The bike has four ride modes out of the factory: Street, Sport, Rain, and Custom. A fifth Track ride mode is available as an optional package, unlocking traction and anti-wheelie control, slip adjustment, two custom modes, and other features. Cruise control is also available as an optional add-on.
The bodywork features striking, angular shapes that flow over the 4.1-gallon fuel tank. Inspired by racing bikes, the fairing features wings and a rear deflector to provide more downforce and keep the bike glued to the road.
The rearset is adjustable between Street and Track positions. A passenger seat is included as standard.
Bookings for the 2026 KTM 990 RC R will open in mid-November. The bike retails for $13,949.
Interested motorcyclists should, however, be aware of KTM’s recent difficulties and its decision to delay some 2025 motorcycles to 2026. The company was also recently fully acquired by Bajaj Auto, but the ownership change is not expected to affect motorcycle deliveries at this time.