Technical Specifications
| 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 | 110 g/km |
| Cooling | Liquid cooled with water/oil heat exchanger |
| Engine cylinder | Twin cylinder |
| EMS | Bosch EMS with RBW |
| Engine oil | Motorex Power Synth SAE 10W-50 |
| Engine stroke | 4-Stroke |
| Silencer | Stainless steel primary and secondary silencer |
| 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 caliper, brake disc |
| Chain | 520 X-Ring |
| Frame design | Chromium-Molybdenum-Steel frame using the engine as stressed element, powder coated |
| Steering head angle | 65.8 ° |
| Rear subframe design | Aluminium, powder-coated |
| Trail | 98.5 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1.481 mm |
| Suspension | |
| Front suspension | WP APEX 48 Open Cartridge |
| Rear suspension | WP APEX-linkage shock |
| Suspension travel (front) | 147 mm |
| Suspension travel (rear) | 134 mm |
| Front suspension adjustment | Compression & Rebound, Adjustable (±3 mm) |
| Rear suspension setting | Compression (high and low speed), rebound and preload (10 turns) |
| Dimensions | |
| Seat height | 845 mm |
| Tank capacity (approx.) | 15.7 l |
| Ground clearance | 163 mm |
| Weight (without fuel) | 184 kg |
| Weight fully fueled | 195 kg |
| Front wheel diameter | 17 “ |
| Rear wheel diameter | 17 “ |
| Front wheel width | 3.5 “ |
| Rear wheel width | 5.5 “ |
| Wheels | |
| Wheels | 3.5 x 17″; 5.5 x 17″ |
| Material | Cast aluminium wheels |
Nearly two decades ago, the KTM RC8 demonstrated that KTM could deliver high-performance riding on asphalt, in addition to its off-road capabilities. This led to the development of the KTM 990 RC R, a next-generation, track-focused supersport motorcycle designed for street use. It incorporates precision engineering and high-grade components to handle corners effectively while adapting to everyday road conditions. The model is manufactured in Austria.
Adjustability Features
The KTM 990 RC R offers extensive customization options for both road and track use. It includes fully adjustable WP APEX front suspension, movable footpegs, multiple ride modes and settings, and a range of KTM PowerParts accessories. These elements allow users to configure the motorcycle for specific sport-oriented setups.
TFT Display
The motorcycle features an 8.8-inch landscape TFT dashboard, which sets a standard in the industry for clarity and functionality. This serves as the central control interface for modes, settings, maintenance, and connectivity. The redesigned TFT emphasizes intuitive operation, with enhanced readability and optimization for track use, providing information relevant to racing. Complete details are available in the KTM Tech Guide.
Connectivity
The TFT display supports various data views through split-screen formats. It can show music track titles, incoming call details, telemetry data such as lean angle, acceleration, deceleration, and throttle position, offline GPS navigation, and outputs from different modes or settings. The display has anti-reflex, anti-glare, and anti-fingerprint properties.
Bodywork
The design of the KTM 990 RC R follows a distinctive style influenced by KTM’s MotoGP involvement, visible during the 22 weekends of the MotoGP season. Elements like the mask shape, belly wings, and front wings contribute to aerodynamics, cooling, downforce, stability, and braking performance. The model is available in Electronic Orange or Black Metallic color options.
LED Headlight
For extended rides or endurance events, the KTM 990 RC R includes a dynamic, lightweight Bi-LED headlight module integrated into the supersport fairing to minimize airflow disruption. It provides 800 lumens in low beam and illuminates up to 200 meters on high beam. The adaptive rear light indicates braking intensity to following vehicles.
Engine
The 947 cc parallel-twin LC8c engine has been refined with an updated engine map and a 100% full throttle opening position tailored to the model’s requirements, making it the most compact twin in its segment. It uses a new stainless steel centralized exhaust muffler to support performance on straights and corners.
Ride Modes
The KTM 990 RC R incorporates advanced electronic systems for customization. It includes four standard modes: Rain, Street, Sport, and Custom, which allow for detailed personalization. An additional three performance-oriented modes—Track and two Custom configurations—are available as technical accessories.
Track Mode
The optional Track Mode enhances performance capabilities. It features Launch Control for starts, adjustable Anti-Wheelie settings across five levels (from very low to very high, or off), and variable throttle response. ABS options include four settings: Road (standard), Sport (later intervention, reduced rear wheel lift, and less cornering intervention), Supermoto+ (allows rear wheel lock for a limited time), and Supermoto. A telemetry screen provides additional data review during operation.
Race DNA
The model’s supersport heritage is supported by a 6D Inertia Measurement Unit (IMU) that feeds data to the ECU for managing Cornering Motorcycle Traction Control, ABS, and Motor Slip Regulation. This setup balances speed and sportiness with features that promote user confidence.
Ergonomics
The ergonomics of the KTM 990 RC R integrate the rider with the motorcycle’s supersport characteristics while maintaining comfort for daily use. The tank design includes six contact points, accommodating various rider heights and allowing movement around the bike with control via legs, knees, and arms. It features aluminum clip-on handlebars, adjustable levers, and adjustable footpegs. The standard street setting can be adjusted 25 mm back and 17 mm higher for a track-oriented position to support full lean angles.
Controls
The model includes a new handlebar layout and switchcube system for navigating options on the TFT display. This setup offers improved ergonomics, higher-quality hardware with reduced friction, six-way interaction, and enhanced haptics. While simpler than MotoGP counterparts, it provides comprehensive control for different riding scenarios.
Seat
The seat design draws from MotoGP influences, integrated with the fairing and supersport styling. The seat height is 33.2 inches (845 mm), with 163 mm of ground clearance and a 1,481 mm wheelbase, allowing for significant lean angles. A pillion seat cover is available through the KTM PowerParts catalog for a racing appearance.
Chassis
The KTM 990 RC R serves as both a track tool and a street-performance motorcycle. Its chassis geometry features a 52.5% front to 47.5% rear weight distribution, 33 mm offset, and 25 degrees of steering angle per side for better steering feel and front-end stability. The aluminum diecast swingarm with linkage construction provides increased flex for stability and handling on uneven surfaces. The dry weight is 405.6 pounds (184 kg).
Fork
The front suspension consists of a 48 mm WP APEX Open Cartridge upside-down fork with 130 mm of travel, developed for track performance with street considerations. It is mounted with 33 mm black anodized triple clamps. Adjustments include 30 clicks for compression and rebound, plus 6 mm of preload, supporting precise handling.
Rear Shock
The WP APEX linear spring shock offers adjustments for high- and low-speed compression, rebound, and preload. It works with the linkage system’s progression curve to deliver feedback, aligning with the front-end geometry for consistent performance.
Wheels and Tires
Based on racetrack testing and MotoGP data, the KTM 990 RC R uses Michelin Power Cup 2 tires: 120/70-R17 front and 180/55-R17 rear. These tires warm up at moderate temperatures and perform well at higher ones, providing grip for both track and street. The lightweight black aluminum wheels support quick direction changes.
Brakes
The braking system employs Brembo HyPure four-piston calipers on two 320 mm Brembo front discs, offering linear feel, consistent pressure, reduced lever pull, and improved modulation. A single-piston unit operates on a 240 mm Galfer rear disc for reliable stopping power.
