- Torque-led performance: The KTM 990 RC R’s 947cc parallel twin delivers strong midrange drive that makes it easier and faster to ride on real roads and track than traditional supersport machines.
- Genuine road-and-track balance: MotoGP-inspired styling hides a surprisingly comfortable, compliant and usable sports bike that works just as well on bumpy NZ back roads as it does on circuit.
- High-end hardware & tech: Fully adjustable WP APEX suspension, Brembo HyPure brakes and a class-leading 8.8-inch TFT give the RC R flagship-level spec in the middleweight class.
Words: Adam Child Pics: Sebas Romero, Emanuel Tschann
Welcome to our first test of the eagerly anticipated KTM 990 RC R – a bike sports bike fans have been waiting years to see. First shown as a MotoGP-inspired 947cc prototype back in early 2024, KTM’s well-documented financial turbulence delayed its arrival. Now, with production back on track in Mattighofen, the 990 RC R marks KTM’s first major new road model since the factory restart – and it’s a critical one.
First impressions suggest KTM has come out swinging. Powered by the LC8c parallel-twin, the 990 RC R produces a claimed 130PS (128hp) at 9,500rpm and 103Nm at just 6,750rpm – headline figures that make it the most powerful Euro5+-compliant bike in the middleweight sports category. Add multiple riding modes, four ABS strategies, anti-wheelie, and a class-leading 8.8-inch full-colour TFT dash, and it’s immediately clear KTM hasn’t held back.
Suspension is fully adjustable WP APEX front and rear, while braking is handled by Brembo’s latest HyPure calipers – hardware normally reserved for flagship superbikes like Ducati’s Panigale V4 S.
Importantly, this is not a 990 Duke in fancy bodywork. The RC R runs a completely new steel tube frame, aluminium subframe, swingarm and linkage, with revised geometry and wheelbase. Aside from the eight-valve LC8c engine (retuned via different fuelling and exhaust), very little is shared with its naked sibling.
KTM treated us to a thorough two-day launch in southern Spain: one day on the road, one day on track. The question was simple – can the 990 RC R deliver genuine sports bike performance without sacrificing real-world usability?
Design & first impressions – a mini MotoGP bike
In the flesh, the 990 RC R looks sensational. The MotoGP influence is obvious, right down to the winglets and even shark-gill detailing on the fuel tank. KTM claims the wings generate 13kg of downforce at 239km/h, though on the road they’re more about theatre than physics. Either way, there’s no mistaking this bike’s intent.
Move closer and the quality becomes apparent. The massive 8.8-inch touchscreen dash features built-in navigation with no app required and is controlled via all-new switchgear. WP APEX suspension and Brembo HyPure brakes reinforce the RC R’s premium positioning, yet the NZ price puts it on par with the competition at $25,999 inc ORC.
There is, however, a catch. KTM’s Demo Mode allows full electronic functionality for the first 1,500km, after which owners must choose between the Track Pack ($917) or full Tech Pack ($1818). With everything fitted, our test bike effectively cost $27,817 INC ORC – still competitive against the Ducati Panigale V2 ($24,595 / V2 S $26,995 + ORC) although almost $4k over the Yamaha R9 ($23,999 ride away).
“Compared to traditional 600cc four-cylinders, the RC R is far easier to ride quickly on real roads.”
On the road – surprisingly comfortable, seriously fast
Throwing a leg over the RC R reveals a roomy, race-style riding position. The 845mm seat is flat and supportive, the screen offers genuine wind protection, and the bars are wide enough to avoid wrist strain. Footpegs are adjustable between road and race positions, adding welcome versatility.
The standout feature is that enormous TFT display. While touch operation with race gloves isn’t ideal, the intuitive switchgear means you rarely need to prod the screen. Customisation is excellent, including split-screen sat-nav layouts.
In standard form, the RC R offers Rain, Street, Sport and Custom modes, with Track mode unlocked via the Track Pack. Traction control and wheelie control can be adjusted on the fly, and the bike remembers your settings – even the naughty ones.
Leaving Seville in Street mode, the RC R immediately impressed with clean low-speed fuelling, a slick optional quickshifter and suspension that soaked up urban imperfections far better than its race-replica looks suggest. Steering lock is limited, but for a sports bike it remains impressively manageable in town.
Once clear of traffic, the KTM’s real strength became obvious: torque. Peak torque arrives early, making overtakes effortless and reducing the need to chase revs. Compared to traditional 600cc four-cylinders, the RC R is far easier to ride quickly on real roads.
On fast A-roads, wind protection is excellent, and with the optional cruise control engaged, long-distance comfort exceeds expectations. Ride quality is plush rather than harsh, with the WP APEX suspension absorbing bumps while maintaining composure at speed.
Push harder into mountain roads and the RC R reveals its true nature – not a track refugee, but a fast, focused road bike that thrives on flowing corners. Steering is accurate rather than hyper-aggressive, braking feel is superb, and rider aids work quietly in the background. It’s engaging without being intimidating.
On track – torque makes it easy to go fast
Day two moved to Seville Circuit for six 30-minute sessions in perfect conditions. With mirrors and plates removed and Michelin trackday slicks fitted, the RC R felt immediately friendly – even on cold tyres.
Sport mode provided a solid safety net early on, while Track mode sharpened throttle response and allowed the engine’s torque to shine. Rather than chasing revs, the KTM drives hard out of corners, making lap times deceptively quick without feeling frantic.
Suspension tweaks brought added support as pace increased, and the RC R responded well to adjustment. While steering isn’t as razor-sharp as Ducati’s Panigale V2, it’s stable, confidence-inspiring and forgiving – especially valuable for trackday riders.
Brembo’s HyPure calipers delivered consistent stopping power all day without fade, and ABS intervention was unobtrusive even under heavy braking. Front-end feel was good rather than exceptional at the limit, but rear-end feedback was excellent, allowing controlled slides when pushing hard.
In short, the RC R is easier to ride fast than traditional supersport machines. It may lack the screaming top-end drama of a ZX-6R or CBR600RR, but it makes up for it with accessibility and real-world pace.
“KTM needed a statement bike, and the 990 RC R delivers. It looks like a scaled-down MotoGP machine yet functions brilliantly as an everyday sports bike.”
Verdict – KTM nails the brief
KTM needed a statement bike, and the 990 RC R delivers. It looks like a scaled-down MotoGP machine yet functions brilliantly as an everyday sports bike. Ergonomics are excellent, the electronics suite is class-leading, and the engine’s torque makes both road and track riding hugely rewarding. And with a new 4-year manufacturer’s warranty, you can buy with confidence.
It’s not perfect – mirrors are poor, front-end feel could be sharper at the limit, and KTM’s paid electronic packs will divide opinion – but none of that detracts from what is a genuinely impressive package.
RATING 9/10: The 990 RC R is a great road bike first, with serious track capability baked in. That balance is rare, and KTM deserves credit for pulling it off.
KTM 990 RC R Gallery
KTM 990 RC R – Key Highlights
- 130PS parallel twin with massive midrange torque
- Class-leading 8.8-inch TFT with built-in navigation
- Fully adjustable WP APEX suspension
- Brembo HyPure superbike-spec brakes
- Road-friendly ergonomics with serious track capability
What’s the competition?
Ducati Panigale V2 – Lighter and sharper with a more racy feel. Arguably, the KTM will be easier to live with on the road.
Yamaha R9 – Cheaper, less powerful, more traditional supersport, the Yamaha has just taken out the 2025 World Supersport Championship so is no slouch.
MV Agusta F3 R – Exotic, thrilling, but less practical. The lack of dealers or support in NZ could be a headache.
KTM DEMO MODE – QUICK EXPLAINER
This has caused a bit of controversy for KTM and we’re surprised they’ve continued with the Demo Mode model. But we guess they must have the stats to show it works. Essentially, the way it works is that when you buy a new KTM like the RC-R, you get it with all the electronic fruit activated, even if you haven’t optioned it. Then, if you don’t go to the dealer to pay some more coin and get it activated, after 1,500km, the electronics suite will be switched off. And as we all know, there’s nothing worse than having something and then getting it taken away.
Obviously there’s a couple of trains of thought here. First, KTM reckon they’re giving you the experience of riding the machine with ALL the electronics activated, so you can decide whether you want them or now. Then, there’s the sceptics out there who believe it’s just a way to keep the KTM machines within the price range of the competitors, but you need to pay more to get everything turned on.
Whichever way you look at it, there’s no denying that the electronics suite provided by KTM is class leading on many of their machines. And if you want to make the most of it, you’ll need to stump up the extra dosh… In NZ, that means:
Track Pack ($917): Track mode, extra custom modes, anti-wheelie, launch control, lap timer, telemetry, throttle response adjustment.
Tech Pack ($1818): Includes Track Pack plus turns on the cruise control, Quickshifter+, MSR, and adaptive brake light.
Specifications
KTM 990 RC R (2026)
Engine 947cc liquid-cooled parallel twin, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Bore x Stroke: 92.5 x 70.4mm
Compression ratio: 13.5:1
Power & Torque 130PS (128hp) @ 9,500rpm / 103Nm @ 6,750rpm
Fuel system Ride-by-wire EFI (DKK Dell’Orto 46mm), Bosch EMS
Transmission 6-speed, PASC slipper clutch, Quickshifter+ (optional / Tech Pack)
Chassis Chromoly steel frame, engine as stressed member, Aluminium subframe and swingarm
Suspension Front: WP APEX 48mm USD, fully adjustable, 147mm travel
Suspension Rear: WP APEX shock, fully adjustable, 134mm travel
Brakes Front: Dual 320mm discs, Brembo HyPure radial calipers
Brakes Rear: 240mm disc, Brembo caliper
ABS: Cornering ABS with four modes
Wheels & Tyres
Cast aluminium wheels
Front: 120/70 ZR17 – Michelin Power Cup 2
Rear: 180/55 ZR17 – Michelin Power Cup 2
Dimensions
Seat height: 845mm
Wheelbase: 1,481mm
Ground clearance: 163mm
Fuel capacity: 15.7 litres
Weight: 195kg (ready to ride)
Electronics: Ride modes: Rain, Street, Sport, Custom
Optional: Track mode, launch control, anti-wheelie, TC slip adjust, cruise control, lap timer
Warranty: 4 years (market dependent)
Colours: Electronic Orange, Black
NZ Price: $25,999 inc ORC (Tech Pack $1818 / Track Pack $917)
Contact: www.ktm.com/en-nz or check our mates at BOYDS Motorcycles
DUE: mid March 2026
SUMMARY: KTM 990 RC-R
The KTM 990 RC R is KTM’s most focused road-going sports bike in years, combining MotoGP-inspired styling with real-world usability. Powered by a 947cc parallel twin producing strong midrange torque, it’s easier to ride fast than traditional supersports while remaining genuinely capable on track. High-end WP APEX suspension, Brembo HyPure brakes and an advanced 8.8-inch TFT underline its premium positioning, making the 990 RC R one of the most complete middleweight sports bikes currently available.
