- 947 cc parallel twin with 135 hp (99.3 kW) and 105 Nm
- No road approval, but slick tires, Akrapovič exhaust, and Brembo HyPure brakes
- Dedicated brand cup series with six races across Europe
Back in October 2025, KTM marked its return to the large-displacement supersport class with the 990 RC R. At the time, the Mattighofen-based manufacturer already announced that a dedicated track variant would follow. Now the time has come: the KTM 990 RC R Track has been officially unveiled and is aimed at riders seeking a fully equipped racetrack motorcycle without the compromises of road homologation.
More Power from the Proven LC8c Engine
At the heart of the KTM 990 RC R Track sits the familiar 947 cc parallel twin with DOHC valve train from the LC8c engine family. Compared to the road-legal version, power has been increased. The engine delivers 135 hp (99.3 kW) and 105 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm. The street version produces around 128 hp (94 kW), so the track variant offers a noticeable boost.
A key contributor is the standard-fit Akrapovič Evolution Line exhaust system made from stainless steel. It weighs just 3 kg (6.6 lbs) and, according to KTM, produces a distinctive racetrack sound at 98.2 dB. The gearbox has also been revised: first gear is taller, while sixth gear is shorter. This is intended to provide advantages both at the start and at high speeds.
Electronics Fully Tailored for Track Use
KTM has streamlined the electronics system of the track version, saving two kilograms in the process. Instead of the riding modes found on the street version, three individually configurable track modes are available. These allow numerous parameters to be adjusted: throttle response, traction control, slip regulation, anti-wheelie mode, launch control, and engine braking.
Additionally, a pit limiter and a bidirectional quickshifter come as standard. All lap information is displayed on a 4.2-inch TFT color display that has been simplified specifically for track use. Headlights, mirrors, side stand, and all road-legal components have been removed.
Suspension and Brakes at Racetrack Level
Suspension duties are handled by a fully adjustable latest-generation WP APEX system with 130 mm of travel at both ends. According to KTM, the setup was developed over countless test laps on some of Europe’s most renowned racetracks.
For the braking system, KTM relies on Brembo HyPure technology. At the front, two four-piston calipers work with 320 mm discs, while the rear features a 240 mm disc with a single-piston caliper. KTM describes the braking feel as more linear and easier to modulate than the ABS-equipped street version, while requiring less lever force. Michelin Power Slick tires in 120/70-R17 at the front and 190/55-R17 at the rear complete the chassis package.
Aerodynamics Inspired by MotoGP
The aerodynamic blueprint for the 990 RC R Track was the KTM RC16 from MotoGP. The winglets and bodywork edges were designed for maximum downforce and optimal stability when accelerating out of corners. The 15.7-liter tank and the revised seat with an 857 mm seat height combine to create a distinctly sporty ergonomic package. KTM describes six defined contact points that allow the rider to move as freely as possible on the motorcycle.
The bodywork is made from injection-molded plastic, making it easy to apply custom race numbers and designs. The windscreen is taller than on the street version and is designed for an aerodynamic riding position. A rain tail light is included as standard equipment, along with a paddock stand.
KTM 990 RC R Cup as a Dedicated Race Series
Alongside the track version, KTM has launched the 990 RC R Cup—a six-round race series in Europe that is professionally organized but explicitly aimed at ambitious amateur riders rather than professionals. Cup participants receive priority delivery of their motorcycles. According to KTM, cup bikes have already been delivered to participants since February 2026.
Availability and Demand
Regular deliveries of the KTM 990 RC R Track to customers and authorized KTM dealers are scheduled to begin in April 2026. Demand already appears to be strong: in the UK, for example, the entire first allocation has reportedly sold out, with interested buyers having to join a waiting list.
Riaan Neveling, Head of Global Marketing at KTM, commented on the new track version: “The beauty of the KTM 990 RC R was the ease with which we could make only a few adjustments and have the KTM 990 RC R TRACK ready to go.” Neveling added that KTM’s history and success on tarmac had shaped the entire RC R lineup. The goal had been to get customers’ pulses racing, and the KTM 990 RC R Track is KTM’s most uncompromising definition of a sportbike to date.
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