KTM Unveils Road-Legal Supersport, 990 RC R Prototype

With the release of the 990 RC R prototype, KTM has made a comeback to the road-going sportbike market following the 2015 demise of the RC8. The legendary RC8 will soon give way to the brand-new, road-homologated KTM 990 RC R sports bike. After the RC8 series was discontinued in 2015, KTM turned its attention to adventure and naked bikes. But the 990 RC R’s release represents a calculated step by KTM to take back control of the competitive supersport industry.

 

Power and performance

The 990 RC R boasts a powerful 947cc LC8c parallel twin engine that generates 128 horsepower and 103 Nm of torque. The steel frame and diecast aluminium subframe of the 990 RC R are particularly noteworthy since they are designed to improve weight distribution and agility.

 

Handling and stability

Cast aluminium wheels with Michelin tyres and a fully adjustable WP Apex suspension system are features of the KTM 990RC R. This motorcycle was created in a wind tunnel and features aerodynamic wings that were modelled after KTM’s MotoGP bikes. These wings provide stability when braking and cornering.

 

Track Edition and Beyond

Apart from the road-going prototype, KTM intends to launch a track-specific version of the 990 RC R. The track edition will have protection parts and a full-system Akrapovic exhaust, as well as performance-enhancing components, removing road-legal requirements. KTM highlights the RC 990 R's track-focused design, stating that switching from street-spec to track-spec configurations only requires minor changes.

 

A Bold Return

With the 990 RC R, KTM is making a daring effort to take on rivals like the Kawasaki ZX6R, Ducati Panigale V2, and Honda CBR600RR in the middleweight class. This action is intended to increase competition and rekindle fan interest in the supersport class.