For those missing the KTM RC8 street-going 1195cc V-twin superbike that ran from 2008 to 2015, your days of longing are over. The new 2026 KTM 990 RC R is here, and it’s a true production supersport for the masses. Delayed by global production challenges and KTM’s restructuring, the RC R has now officially arrived in the United States. KTM has filled the spec sheet with top-tier components and paid close attention to detail, positioning the 990 RC R strongly against its modern competitors.

At one time, the supersport category was dominated by Japanese inline fours. The Honda CBR600RR ($11,499), Kawasaki Ninja ZX‑6R ($11,599), and Suzuki GSX‑R600 ($12,199) are still available Stateside. However, they now have to do combat with the modern Next Generation Supersport class, which includes the recently released Yamaha YZF-R9 triple ($12,499) and the Ducati Panigale V2 ($16,995), as well as the ever-present Suzuki GSX-R750 ($13,249). The 947cc KTM 990 RC R parallel twin, which offers the largest displacement engine in the class, with a competitive $13,949 price tag.

Manufacturers are throwing serious punches, and KTM has clearly arrived prepared to make a statement.

1. The 2026 KTM 990 RC R’s parallel-twin feels like an inline-four. Unlike most twins, which hit hard with strong initial torque, the RC R builds power progressively and revs freely, almost like an inline-four. While long-time KTM riders might find this character unexpected, it’s an ideal formula for track performance. The smoother delivery of the 128-horsepower motor allows riders to open the throttle earlier and more aggressively without unsettling the bike mid-corner. Even on the street, the engine’s predictability makes the bike easier to ride and less tiring around town.

2. KTM has equipped the RC R with a full suite of modern electronics. The bike comes with four IMU-informed standard ride modes: Sport, Stret, Rain, and Custom. With the optional KTM Tech Pack ($900), you get the $500 Track Pack, which includes Track mode, two additional custom modes, nine-level traction control, launch control, five-level wheelie control, throttle response adjustment, and track-oriented dash software. By going with the Tech Pack, you add the quickshifter ($350), motor slip regulation ($100), and cruise control ($280). So, the Tech Pack gives you $ 1230 worth of à la carte options for $900. Together, these systems give riders a wide range of adjustability depending on road or track conditions.

3. The quickshifter works well, though it requires firm, deliberate input. Anything less than a full shift can cause a noticeably abrupt engine cut-off. While upshifts are smooth and fast, downshifts occasionally feel rougher than expected. Ideally, we would have liked the downshifts to match the smoothness of the upshifts.

4. The RC R uses a chromoly perimeter frame with the engine acting as a stressed member. The diecast aluminum subframe and overall chassis design are completely new, with a focus on increased rigidity. While not featherweight like its also-new closed-course sibling, the 399-pound KTM RC R Track, the RC R hides its 430-pound curb weight impressively well.

5. Suspension duties are handled by fully adjustable WP Apex units. Along with the 48mm inverted fork, the 990 RC R gets a linear-spring-rate shock, ideal for consistent track performance, though it sacrifices some street comfort. The linkage system helps absorb road imperfections while maintaining precise handling. The result exceeded expectations. On the road, the RC R feels surprisingly composed and civilized. On track, after switching to KTM’s recommended closed-course settings, the bike delivers confident cornering and excellent feedback.

6. What goes fast must slow down, and Brembo handles that. Braking is handled by 320mm discs and Brembo’s latest Hypure calipers from Brembo. The 2026 KTM RC R is the first supersport in its class to feature this setup. Compared with the well-known Stylema calipers, Hypure grippers provide a softer initial bite with a more linear feel, which means slightly more lever pressure is initially required. The result is highly precise braking and excellent control on both street and track.

7. The 2026 KTM 990 RC R rides on 17-inch wheels wrapped in sticky Michelin Power Cup 2 tires. Cornering feels glued to the asphalt, with phenomenal lean-angle grip that inspires pushing limits on track or spirited street rides. The tread’s high land-to-sea ratio maximizes contact patch for mid-corner stability, offering plenty of feel and edge grip. Turn-in is aggressive, and exits hook up predictably under power.

8. The 8.9-inch TFT display is impressive. Not only is it large and clear, but it’s also a touchscreen, which is rare in this segment. The interface allows riders to swipe between customizable split-screen layouts. One side can display speed and rpm, while the other can show navigation for street riding or telemetry data such as lean angle on track days. Navigation is powered by Mapbox, a platform also used by a broad range of automobile manufacturers. The system is highly intuitive and can even function offline; maps can be downloaded directly to the dashboard. Conveniently, after turning the bike off — say, during a fuel stop — the navigation resumes when restarted, eliminating the hassle of resetting the route.

9. A first for a Supersport bike: comfortable ergonomics. Spending a whole day on the road and the next on the racetrack on a typical Supersport would be a cramped experience for most riders. However, even at 6-foot-1, I had nothing but good things to say about the riding position on the RC R. The clip- ons are interestingly comfortable, while not giving away any front-end feeling. Likewise, the rearsets are not too aggressive in their stock position and can be adjusted. The adjustable ergonomics are another big selling point for KTM, adding to an already value-packed motorcycle.

10. At first glance, the seat appears as though it might be uncomfortable over long rides. In practice, though, it proved surprisingly supportive. Its shape also makes it easy to move side-to-side, which was especially noticeable while hanging off through the endless corners navigated on a track day at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway.

11. The 990 RC R’s fit and finish are genuinely impressive for its price point. MotoGP-inspired aerodynamics appear on the front fairing, beneath the radiator, and ahead of the rear tire, reinforcing KTM’s #ReadyToRace aesthetic. Our test bike’s bright orange paint made the sharp bodywork stand out even more. The seamless transition between the upper and lower fairings, combined with the race-style seat, creates a very cohesive design.

12. Whether you’re an intermediate rider looking to sharpen your skills or an experienced rider ready to push your limits, the RC R delivers a thrilling and rewarding experience. To put things into perspective, Troy Bayliss won the 2001 Superbike World Championship aboard a Ducati 996-based race bike that produced 123 horsepower in street form, which cost $17,095 (about $31,500 in 2026 dollars). Taking that into consideration, it’s hard to argue that the 2026 KTM 990 RC R isn’t an exceptional value, even when the Tech Pack bumps the MSRP up to $14,849. KTM backs the RC R with a four-year manufacturer’s warranty against defects, and you can still use it as a navigation-equipped street bike. Whether you’re carving canyon roads with its manageable power delivery, or chasing lap times on the track, the 990 RC R proves to be an incredibly rewarding motorcycle to own, and ride.

Photography by Simon Cudby 

RIDING STYLE: Track 

• Helmet: Alpinestars Supertech R10
• Suit: Alpinestars Plus V4 Sprint
• Airbag: Alpinestars Tech-Air 5 Plasma
• Gloves: Alpinestars GP Pro R4
• Boots: Alpinestars Supertech R

RIDING STYLE: Street

• Helmet: Alpinestars Supertech R10
• Jacket: Alpinestars RX-5 Drystar
• Airbag: Alpinestars Tech-Air 5 Plasma
• Gloves: Alpinestars GP Pro R4
• Jeans: Alpinestars Copper V3
• Shoes: Alpinestars Chrome

2026 KTM 990 RC R Specifications

ENGINE 

• Type: LC8c Parallel twin
• Displacement: 947cc
• Bore x stroke: 92.5 x 70.4mm
• Maximum power: 127 horsepower @ 9500 rpm
• Maximum torque: 76 lb-ft @ 6750 rpm
• Valvetrain: DOHC; 4 vpc
• Ignition: Bosch EMS w/ ride-by-wire
• Fueling: DKK Dell’Orto w 46mm throttle body
• Lubrication: Pressure lubrication w/ 2 oil pumps
• Cooling: Liquid and oil
• Muffler: Stainless steel
• Transmission: 6-speed
• Clutch: Wet multiplate w/ assist and slipper functions
• Final drive: 520 X-ring chain

CHASSIS

• Frame: Chromoly perimeter w/ die cast aluminum subframe
• Front suspension; travel: Fully adjustable WP Apex 48mm open-cartridge fork; 5.7 inches
• Rear suspension; travel: Linkage-assisted, fully adjustable WP Apex shock; 5.2 inches
• Wheels: Cast aluminum
• Front wheel: 17 x 3.50
• Rear wheel: 17 x 5.50
• Tires: Michelin Power Cup 2
• Front tire: 120/70-17
• Rear tire: 180/55-17
• Front brakes: 320mm floating discs w/ radially mounted Brembo HyPure calipers and adjustable Brembo MCS master cylinder
• Rear brake: 240mm disc w/ Brembo single-piston caliper
• ABS: Standard

DIMENSIONS and CAPACITIES 

• Wheelbase: 58.3 inches
• Rake: 24.2 degrees
• Seat height: 33.2 inches
• Fuel tank capacity: 4.1 gallons
• Curb weight: 430 pounds

2026 KTM 990 RC R Price: $13,949 MSRP ($14,849, as tested)

2026 KTM 990 RC R Review Photo Gallery