KTM 450 RC: New Parallel-Twin Sportbike with Single-Sided Swingarm Launches in China

• 449 cc parallel-twin with 41 kW (56 hp) and 195 km/h (121 mph) top speed
• 168 kg (370 lbs) weight, aluminum single-sided swingarm, and WP suspension with steering damper
• On sale in China from April 2026 at 34,999 Yuan (approximately 4,400 euros / 4,850 USD)

The KTM 450 RC marks the beginning of a completely new model generation. With a 449 cc parallel-twin, aluminum single-sided swingarm, and WP suspension components, the fully-faired sportbike positions itself as a sharper alternative to the technically related CFMoto 450 SR-S. For now, however, the machine is only available in China.

The fact that the KTM 450 RC exists at all is anything but self-evident. The former decision-makers at KTM had actually scrapped the 450 and 490 models jointly planned with Chinese partner CFMoto. After Bajaj formally completed the acquisition of the Austrian manufacturer, these models are now apparently coming after all. In December 2025, the KTM 450 RC first appeared in Chinese homologation documents, accompanied by a photo of a fully-faired sport model in typical KTM orange. On April 1, 2026, the official presentation followed, also in China.

Parallel-Twin with 449 cc and 270-Degree Crank Offset

The new 450 RC apparently shares no technical components with the previous KTM RC 390, the sporty entry-level model for the European A2 license class. Instead of a single-cylinder engine, a now class-standard parallel-twin is used. The KTM shares its technical platform with the CFMoto 450 SR and its higher-spec variant, the 450 SR-S. The 449 cc parallel-twin features a 270-degree crank offset and produces a maximum of 41 kW (56 hp) in KTM spec. That is roughly 4 hp more than the CFMoto 450 SR-S, which delivers 38 kW (52 hp). KTM has therefore tuned the engine slightly more aggressively.

According to the Chinese homologation documents, the KTM 450 RC reaches a top speed of 195 km/h (121 mph). The CFMoto 450 SR-S trails slightly at 192 km/h (119 mph). In the class of fully-faired sportbikes with around 450 cc, the KTM would be the most powerful model, surpassing both the Kawasaki Ninja 500 with its approximately 51 hp and the Aprilia RS 457.

Trellis Frame and Aluminum Single-Sided Swingarm from CFMoto

The KTM 450 RC borrows not only the engine but also the chassis and single-sided swingarm from the CFMoto platform. A steel trellis frame forms the base structure, complemented by the striking aluminum single-sided swingarm sourced from the higher-spec CFMoto 450 SR-S. Despite the extensive parts sharing, the KTM weighs in at 168 kg (370 lbs), 3 kg less than the CFMoto at 171 kg (377 lbs).

The wheelbase of the KTM 450 RC measures 1,360 mm, which is 10 mm shorter than the CFMoto 450 SR. This suggests a slightly more compact, aggressive riding geometry that should be more focused on cornering agility and track performance.

WP Suspension Instead of KYB: Where KTM Separates from CFMoto

KTM makes a clear distinction from the CFMoto base with the suspension. While the 450 SR-S uses a KYB fork, the KTM 450 RC receives fully adjustable WP suspension components. The upside-down telescopic fork and shock absorber come from KTM’s in-house supplier WP Suspension, complemented by a WP-supplied steering damper. The braking system also comes from the KTM group: WP Braking Systems supplies the components, including a 320 mm single front disc with a radial four-piston caliper and radial master cylinder. At the rear, a single disc brake is sufficient for this weight class. The ABS system comes from Bosch, specifically the 10.3MB unit with lean-angle sensitivity.

Sporty Riding Position with Clip-Ons and Raised Footpegs

The ergonomics of the KTM 450 RC are significantly more aggressive than those of the CFMoto 450 SR-S and sharper than its predecessor, the RC 390. The clip-on handlebars are reportedly mounted below the upper triple clamp, resulting in a more forward-leaning riding position. This is paired with higher-positioned footpegs and revised foot controls. Combined with the shorter wheelbase, the riding position is clearly designed for track riding.

For tires, KTM uses the same dimensions as CFMoto: 110/70-17 at the front and 150/60-17 at the rear. The wheels, however, differ visually from the CFMoto’s spoke wheels, contributing to a more distinctive appearance.

Electronics with Ride-by-Wire, Traction Control, and Quickshifter

The KTM 450 RC’s equipment list is comprehensive for an entry-level model. An electronic throttle (ride-by-wire) enables different riding modes, complemented by traction control and cruise control. A quickshifter is also on board, with its load sensor documented in the homologation papers. The TFT display offers connectivity features. Tire pressure monitoring and heated grips are reportedly available as options.

Design Inspired by the KTM 990 RC R

Visually, the KTM 450 RC follows the Austrian manufacturer’s current design language. The angular, aggressive appearance is clearly oriented toward the KTM 990 RC R presented in 2025. Notable are the aerodynamic winglets on the front fairing, which, given the top speed of just under 200 km/h (124 mph), should be considered more of a design element than a functional component. The turn signals are integrated into the mirrors, giving the model a cleaner front end compared to the early prototypes that were previously spotted testing in Europe with camouflage bodywork.

A2 License Compatibility: 56 HP Is Actually Too Much

For the European market, the question of license compatibility arises. At 41 kW (56 hp), the KTM 450 RC exceeds the power limit of the A2 license class, which is set at 35 kW (48 hp). A restriction would therefore be necessary, but the A2 class also stipulates a maximum power-to-weight ratio of 0.2 kW per kilogram. At 168 kg and 35 kW (48 hp), the ratio would be 0.208 kW/kg, slightly above the limit. Either a few more horsepower would need to be restricted or the weight slightly increased for the KTM 450 RC to be approved as an A2 motorcycle in Europe.

Price and Availability: China Only for Now

The KTM 450 RC goes on sale in China from April 2026. The price is set at 34,999 Yuan, equivalent to approximately 4,400 euros (4,850 USD). A launch date and price for Europe or other regions have not yet been announced. Various assessments suggest the KTM 450 RC could remain a China-only model, as Bajaj is reportedly already working on a proprietary parallel-twin platform for global markets. Additionally, the existing RC lineup outside China is expected to be updated first with the third-generation KTM 390 Duke engine. However, the KTM 450 RC was previously spotted testing in Europe with camouflage bodywork, which does not entirely rule out a later European launch.

KTM 450 Duke and 450 Adventure as Successors?

The 450 RC is likely just the beginning. Additional 450 cc parallel-twin models from KTM could follow: a 450 Duke as a naked bike and a 450 Adventure as an adventure tourer, each technically related to the corresponding CFMoto models 450 NK and 450 MT. Whether these models will also replace the current 390 singles from KTM outside China remains open. Related KTM-CFMoto models already exist based on the larger LC8c parallel-twin engines: the KTM 790 and 890 series are partially or fully manufactured by CFMoto in China.

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