Almost twenty years ago, the KTM RC8 showed that KTM could adrenalise riding on asphalt as well as off-road. Since then, the journey to a next-gen, track-focused, performance-oriented Supersport motorcycle for the street has led to this: the KTM 990 RC R. Primed to lay rubber on any apex thanks to precision and specific high-grade parts, but also shifting that sporty character to the practicality of the public road, the KTM 990 RC R is the definitive KTM expression of intent and engineering. Born, bred and built in Austria: do they come any more READY TO RACE?
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Be what you want it to be, be what you want to be. A pure-breed Supersport motorcycle like the KTM 990 RC R is a rare piece of high-tech clay, waiting to be shaped and customized for road or race. From the fully adjustable WP APEX front suspension to the movable footpegs and to the myriad of Ride Modes and settings as well as a gallery of KTM PowerParts accessories and additions, the choice is vast when it comes to dialling in the ideal sport-focused set-up. Commitment is the final ingredient to power ahead of the pack.
The new 8.8” landscape TFT dashboard has established a benchmark in the industry. Clarity and functionality are now premium attributes of this control ‘hub’ and window for the modes, settings, maintenance and connection with the KTM 990 RC R. The redesign for the new TFT prioritized intuitive use. With improved readability and optimization, it is absolutely READY TO RACE, especially for track purposes with the information racers would expect. Full information is available in the KTM TECH GUIDE.
See the way, see all the way. The TFT can be changed to show any-and-all data through split-screen formats or more. Whether it's the title of a music track, details of an incoming call, telemetry readings (lean angle, acceleration and deceleration, throttle position), offline GPS navigation, and output from various modes or settings then the anti-reflex, anti-glare and anti-fingerprint display is another
The KTM 990 RC R design language is singular and unmistakable. Turn on the TV during 22 weekends of the year and the aerodynamic and performance-thinking profiles of the KTM RC16s on the MotoGP grid will hit a chord. Mask shape, belly wings, and the wings on the front: they all look striking but also help with cooling and downforce, and therefore stability and braking performance. In terms of looks, is there a more razor-focused option on two wheels? Breathe it in. And would you like it in Electronic Orange or Black Metallic?
Long ride-outs of Endurance races? When day turns to night, the dynamic lightweight headlight on the KTM 990 RC R is a Bi-LED Modul integrated into the Supersport fairing for little compromise of airflow. The new unit radiates 800 lm in low beam and up to 200 m on high: ample illumination for distant traffic or looming backmarkers. Rivals and slower vehicles will catch a brief glimpse of the KTM 990 RC R with the adaptive rear light that reveals braking force for the next turn.
The EU 5+, 947 cc, parallel-twin LC8c has been harnessed even further thanks to a tweaked engine map and 100% full throttle position to suit the needs of the KTM 990 RC R and the most compact twin in the segment. The impressive stats come in at 127.84 PS (94 kW) and 103 Nm of torque at 6,750 rpm. A new stainless steel, centralized exhaust muffler also helps to urge the whole show to gobble straights and slice corners.
The KTM 990 RC R stands on the cutting edge of electronic possibilities: mold the bike as you want it for any given lap or ride-out. A new Ride Mode concept affords detailed customization. Four standard modes - Rain, Street, Sport and Custom option - offer next-level personalization, while the additional trio of performance-based Track and Custom configurations are available as technical accessories.
The KTM 990 RC R punches hard above its weight with Track Mode. Take what you need, drop what you do not. Launch Control takes centerstage away from the starting line. Then, also in Track Mode, the Anti-wheelie can be set to five levels, from very low to very high and turned off. The same for throttle response and four options for ABS: Road is the standard option, while riders have the option to choose Sport (intervenes later, less rear wheel lift and less cornering intervention), Supermoto+ (lock the rear wheel for a limited amount of time) and Supermoto. A telemetry screen is thrown in for good measure for those who wish to review even more data on the go.
The KTM 990 RC R exhales its prototype Supersport heritage with reams of information and data pouring through the 6D IMU (inertia measurement unit) and into the ECU to administer Cornering Motorcycle Traction Control and the ABS as well as Motorslip Regulation. The KTM 990 RC R is speedy, sporty but with maximum concessions for more confidence-inspiring use.
The KTM 990 RC R’s ergonomics are standout. To ensure that the rider is integrated in a way to grapple the Supersport DNA of the bike without compromising day-to-day comfort and practicality, KTM has fashioned a tank shape with 6 contact points. The form of the product will suit a wide range of heights and permits the rider to ‘glide’ around the motorcycle while still being able to exert control through legs, knees and arms. The KTM 990 RC R has aluminum clip-on handlebars, adjustable levers and adjustable footpegs: the standard ‘street’ setting can be moved 25 mm back and 17 mm higher for a more racing ‘track’ poise and more influence for full lean angles.
Swift reactions for fast and thrilling saddle time also requires instinctive and easy operation. For this reason, the KTM 990 RC R benefits from a new handlebar layout and switchcube system to cycle through the options and choices illustrated by the TFT. Better ergonomics, quality hardware with less friction, 6-way interaction, improved haptics. The KTM 990 RC R’s ‘cockpit’ is simpler than its MotoGP cousin but just as thorough when it comes to crafting the right ride for the right moment.
More MotoGP games can be spotted through the KTM 990 RC R seat and the formation on top of the fairing and Supersport aesthetic. The seat height is 845 mm, with ground clearance at 163 mm with 1,481 mm wheelbase so the KTM 990 RC R can get cranked over with no concerns. Click a pillion seat cover into place through the KTM PowerParts catalogue for the full racing style.
The KTM 990 RC R has two strong characters. It’s a saliva-inducing track tool as well as an acute expression of sports performance for the street with all the criteria necessary. To these ends the chassis geometry is weighted and fixed accordingly with an emphasis of 52.5% to 47.5% front/rear. The offset is measured at 33 mm with a steering angle at 25 degrees (per side) for improved steering sensation and a planted front end. The aluminum diecast swingarm with a linkage construction mechanism brings increased flex for better stability, and manageability for bumpy track and street surfaces and this 184 kg (dry weight) rocket.
Confidence and belief in the front end of the KTM 990 RC R is the basis for the commitment to any curve regardless of the route or the layout. Rising to the task is a WP Suspension 48 mm WP APEX Open Cartridge upside-down fork that has 130 mm of travel. The settings have been developed on the track with full sensibility for the street and each fork is surrounded by freshly designed 33 mm black anodized triple clamps for high-performance maneuvers. The forks are fully adjustable, with 30 clicks for both compression and rebound and 6 mm of preload. The equipment will assist precise riding but at the same time is simple to dial-in and inspires confidence from the first time you drop into a turn, whether dragging a knee or exploring the road ahead.
The WP APEX linear spring shock complements the fork to provide state of the art suspension and more customization potential. High and low speed compression can be tweaked as well as rebound and preload for the ideal sensation, stiffness and feeling through the geometry of the front end. The linear spring harmonizes with the progression curve of the linkage construction for the best possible feedback; in short, the KTM 990 RC R brings all the premium tactility expected from a bike that can drift from braking signage to road markers.
Verification direct from the racetrack and findings from MotoGP mean Michelin Power Cup 2 tyres - 120/70-R17 on the front and 180/55-R17 on the rear - are the best choice for the KTM 990 RC R. Needing only 10 degrees to start warming and superb at higher temperatures, the rubber will serve both purposes with unfailing grip. The KTM 990 RC R has black, lightweight aluminium wheels to give the rider full confidence to ride with enthusiasm and the ability to change direction quickly.
The KTM 990 RC R will take you to the brink of your abilities. Part of the adrenaline surge is bringing the whole show to a stop: or at least the best speed for any corner! For this, the latest premium tech from industry leader Brembo is the sole resource. HyPure callipers are the next generation of 4-piston engineering, meaning a more linear feel, a constant pressure point, less lever pull, and better modulation. The system surrounds two highly resilient 320 mm Brembo discs, and a single piston unit will grab a 240 mm Galfer rear disc. Dependable, effective and exciting.
This motorcycle comes with a PREMIUM MANUFACTURER’S WARRANTY. Riders enjoy up to 4 years of coverage; ride worry-free and experience the thrill of KTM with added peace of mind. To keep the warranty valid, regular services must be performed according to the service plan at an authorized KTM dealer. More information and details on how to benefit from this offer can be found on the KTM warranty page. Valid from Model Year 2025 onwards for all street legal motorcycles across the entire street range. Previously limited to selected models, the Premium Manufacturer’s Warranty now covers the entire street range.
| ENGINE | |
|---|---|
| DESIGN | 2-cylinder, 4-stroke, DOHC Parallel Twin (EURO 5+) |
| DISPLACEMENT | 947 cm³ |
| POWER | 127.84 PS |
| TORQUE | 103 Nm |
| TRANSMISSION | 6-Speed |
| CO₂ EMISSIONS | 110g/km |
| COOLING | Liquid-cooled with Water/Oil Heat Exchanger |
| ENGINE CYLINDER | Twin Cylinder |
| EMS | Bosch EMS with RBW |
| ENGINE OIL | Motorex Power Synt SAE 10W-50 |
| ENGINE STROKE | 4-Strole |
| DRIVE TYPE | Combustion |
| SILENCER | Stainless Steel Primary and Secondary Silencer |
| SUSPENSION | |
|---|---|
| FRONT SUSPENSION | WP APEX 48 Open Cartridge |
| REAR SUSPENSION | WP APEX-Linkage Shock |
| SUSPENSION TRAVEL (FRONT) | 147 mm |
| SUSPENSION TRAVEL (REAR) | 134 mm |
| SUSPENSION TRAVEL (FRONT) | 5.79 inch |
| SUSPENSION TRAVEL (REAR) | 5.28 inch |
| FRONT SUSPENSION ADJUSTMENT | Compression & Rebound, Adjustable (±3mm) |
| REAR SUSPENSION ADJUSTMENT | Compression (High and Low Speed), Rebound and Preload (10 Turns) |
| CHASSIS | |
|---|---|
| FRONT BRAKE DISC DIAMETER | 320 mm |
| REAR BRAKE DISC DIAMETER | 240 mm |
| FRONT BRAKE | 2X Radially Mounted 4 Piston Caliper, Brake Disc |
| REAR BRAKE | 1 Piston Calliper, Brake Disc |
| CHAIN | 520 X-Ring |
| FRAME DESIGN | Chromium-Molybdenum-Steel Frame Using the Engine as Stressed Element, Powder-Coated |
| TRAIL | 98.5 mm |
| WHEELBASE | 1,481 mm |
| DIMENSIONS | |
|---|---|
| SEAT HEIGHT | 845 mm |
| TANK CAPACITY | 15.7 L |
| GROUND CLEARANCE | 163 mm |
| WEIGHT (WITHOUT FUEL) | 184 kg |
| TANK CAPACITY (APPROX.) | 4.15 US gal |
| WEIGHT FULLY FUELED | 195 kg |
| WHEELS | 3.5 x 17"; 5.5 x 17" |
| WHEELS | Cast Aluminiun Wheels |
