Why super sports bikes again – and why now?
KTM is active and successful in motorcycle racing, especially in MotoGP, even if it has recently been challenged by a dominant Ducati team. Nevertheless, its success on the racing scene seems to have persuaded the company to incorporate its experience into a road-legal machine. Even though KTM has not officially commented on the strategy behind the RC R, long-term development work indicates that the comeback was planned well in advance. The first prototypes were spotted as early as 2021, but the decision to bring back a supersports bike for the road was a rethink: KTM realized that their high-performance naked bikes also deliver similar performance on the road. This realization and the interest of customers were the deciding factors in developing another powerful, sporty model.
Technical insights into the KTM 990 RC R
The 990 RC R uses familiar technology: it is powered by a modified 947 cc LC8C in-line twin cylinder, which is also used in the Duke 990. In the Duke, the engine delivers 123 hp (90 kW) at 9,500 rpm and a torque of 103 Nm at 6,750 rpm. For the RC R version, the output has been slightly increased: 128 hp (94 kW) at 10,500 rpm with the same torque of 103 Nm. The engine weighs around 57 kg and is housed in a tubular steel frame, which is designed to ensure high stability and control, especially during intensive acceleration.
The chassis relies on a fully adjustable WP Apex Open Cartridge fork, which was specially developed for high performance. KTM has also worked on the ergonomics: Adjustable footrests and an adapted tank shape are designed to optimize the rider’s position and reduce arm strain.
Race track and road version
KTM is planning a track edition of the 990 RC R for mid-2025, which will be specially designed for the racetrack. It is interesting to note that KTM is offering the conversion of the road version into a pure racing machine ex works. This conversion includes the removal of the components required for road approval, the installation of protective components and tuning to a special exhaust system in order to fully exploit the potential on the race track.
The road-going version of the 990 RC R is expected to be launched in early 2025, and initial estimates put the price at under 20,000 euros (around 21,000 USD).
What do the prototype pictures show?
The latest images show the first details of the road-legal version. A striking feature of the preview was an opening at the front that allows the installation of a headlight. A single light element is installed, the new KTM headlight design is not used here. A small daytime running light is also integrated. Massive mirrors round off the sporty look, while rectangular indicators contrast the design. At the rear is a streetfighter-inspired, high tail. The indicators have integrated rear and brake lights.
There is a minimalist seat roll for the pillion rider. KTM has probably decided that the RC R is designed purely as a rider’s bike, with the pillion only appearing to be intended as an emergency seat for short trips.
Comparison with the competition: Ducati Panigale V2 and Yamaha R9
In the Supersport category, the KTM 990 RC R comes up against established competitors such as the Ducati Panigale V2 and the Yamaha R9. A direct comparison:
- Engine: The RC R has a 947 cc in-line twin cylinder with 128 hp (94 kW). The Panigale V2 has 955 cc and produces 155 hp (114 kW), while the Yamaha R9 offers around 119 hp (88 kW) with an 890 cc three-cylinder engine.
- Torque: The 990 RC R and the Panigale V2 are both equipped with 103 Nm and 104 Nm respectively, while the Yamaha R9 is slightly lower at around 93 Nm.
- Weight: While the total weight of the RC R is not yet known, the engine alone weighs 57 kg. The Panigale V2 comes in at 193 kg without fuel, while the Yamaha R9 weighs 195 kg with a full tank.
- Chassis: The RC R relies on WP components, while the Panigale V2 uses a Showa Big Piston Fork and Sachs shock absorber and the R9 is equipped with a Kayaba telescopic fork.
- Brakes: The RC R will probably be equipped with Brembo components. The Panigale V2 and R9 also use high-quality brake systems from Brembo.
- Electronics: It is likely that the RC R will offer a comprehensive electronics package with IMU-based traction control, quickshifter and ABS, comparable to the Panigale and R9, which also include advanced control units and various riding modes.
Outlook and conclusion
The KTM 990 RC R should further fuel the excitement in the supersport category and offer KTM fans a long-awaited option. With an output of 128 hp and a stability-oriented chassis, the RC R focuses on performance. Priced below the Panigale V2 and slightly above the Yamaha R9, the RC R is expected to be in an interesting position in the market. KTM fans and interested parties can look forward to seeing how the RC R will fare against the competition, especially as Ducati could soon announce a successor model to the Panigale V2.
The official launch of the 990 RC R is expected at the beginning of 2025, with a price of less than 20,000.
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