KTM is known worldwide for building aggressive, performance-oriented motorcycles, and the RC lineup has always been at the heart of its racing DNA. After the RC 390 and RC 200, KTM is stepping up the game with the KTM RC 990, a full-faired supersport motorcycle built for thrill seekers. This bike is expected to redefine the middleweight sportbike category, offering track-level performance while still being road-friendly. With sharp styling, advanced electronics, and a high-revving twin-cylinder engine, the RC 990 is designed to compete with giants like Yamaha R7, Kawasaki Ninja 650, and Aprilia RS 660.
Design and Styling
The KTM RC 990 carries the brand’s signature sharp and aggressive design language. It features a sleek aerodynamic fairing with sharp LED headlamps, large air intakes, and a race-inspired windscreen. The bike’s bodywork is designed not just for looks but also for better airflow and downforce at high speeds. KTM has reworked the seating ergonomics compared to the smaller RCs, offering a balance between sporty aggression and long-ride comfort. The rear section is sharp and minimalistic, with LED tail-lamps and an upswept exhaust. Overall, the RC 990 looks like a proper supersport machine ready to dominate both track and streets.
Engine and Performance
The KTM RC 990 is powered by a brand-new parallel-twin 947cc engine, producing around 128–130 bhp of power and 100 Nm of torque. This engine is liquid-cooled and tuned for high revs, giving riders explosive acceleration and thrilling top-end performance. Paired with a 6-speed gearbox, slipper clutch, and quick-shifter (up and down), the RC 990 promises an engaging riding experience. With this power output, the bike can sprint from 0–100 kmph in less than 3.5 seconds and reach a top speed of around 250 kmph. This makes it one of the most powerful middleweight supersport bikes in its class.
Ride and Handling
Being a supersport, the KTM RC 990 is built on a lightweight steel trellis frame combined with an aluminum subframe. The suspension setup includes WP Apex USD forks at the front and a fully adjustable rear monoshock, both tuned for aggressive cornering and track use. The lightweight chassis ensures razor-sharp handling, allowing riders to flick through corners with precision. The riding position is sporty with clip-on handlebars and rear-set footpegs, but KTM has fine-tuned ergonomics to ensure it isn’t overly uncomfortable for city use. The bike’s excellent weight distribution makes it stable at high speeds and agile in tight bends.
Brakes and Safety
Braking performance on the KTM RC 990 is top-class, thanks to its twin 320 mm front discs with radial-mounted Brembo calipers and a single 240 mm rear disc. The bike comes with dual-channel ABS with cornering ABS, ensuring maximum safety during aggressive braking even when leaned over in corners. KTM may also include switchable ABS modes, allowing riders to fine-tune braking intervention depending on whether they are on track or road. With lightweight alloy wheels and sticky Metzeler or Michelin tyres, braking performance is sharp, precise, and confidence-inspiring, perfectly matching the high-performance nature of the RC 990.
Features and Technology
The RC 990 is packed with modern electronics and rider aids, making it a true supersport for the modern era. It gets a full-color TFT instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, and ride stats. KTM is expected to equip it with multiple riding modes such as Sport, Rain, and Track, each adjusting throttle response, traction control, and ABS sensitivity. Advanced features like launch control, wheelie control, and engine braking management may also be included. A bi-directional quick-shifter, slipper clutch, ride-by-wire throttle, and electronic suspension settings (in higher trims) make the RC 990 one of the most technologically advanced bikes in its category.
Comfort and Ergonomics
While the RC 990 is primarily designed for performance, KTM has also ensured some degree of comfort for longer rides. The seat is slightly more padded than traditional supersports, and the clip-ons are set at an angle that reduces wrist strain during city commuting. The mid-set footpegs allow a sporty yet not extreme riding stance. Pillion comfort, however, is minimal, as the bike is focused on solo riding. The suspension, though stiff for track performance, still manages to handle Indian road conditions decently, especially when adjusted. For riders who want speed with some comfort, the RC 990 strikes a good balance.
Mileage and Efficiency
Performance bikes like the KTM RC 990 are not meant for fuel efficiency, but KTM has worked to balance performance with practicality. Riders can expect a mileage of around 18–20 kmpl in city conditions and up to 22–24 kmpl on highways with steady riding. With a fuel tank capacity of around 15 liters, the RC 990 should offer a range of about 300–350 km on a full tank. This makes it practical enough for weekend rides and occasional touring, although its real charm lies in pushing it hard on open roads or racing circuits.
Price and Variants
The KTM RC 990 is expected to launch in India in late 2025 or early 2026. Pricing will be premium, considering the engine size, electronics, and positioning. The bike is likely to be priced around ₹12–13 lakh (ex-showroom) in India, making it one of the most expensive KTM models available in the country. There may be multiple variants, including a base version with standard features and a top-spec version with electronic suspension and advanced rider aids. With this pricing, the RC 990 will compete against global middleweight supersport motorcycles.
Competition
The KTM RC 990 will face direct competition from bikes like the Yamaha R7, Aprilia RS 660, Kawasaki Ninja 650, Honda CBR650R, and Suzuki GSX-8R. Among these, the Aprilia RS 660 is its closest rival in terms of power and electronics. The Yamaha R7 is less powerful but offers an excellent balance of performance and usability. Kawasaki Ninja 650 is more affordable but not as aggressive. Honda CBR650R offers inline-four thrills but at a higher price. KTM’s biggest advantage will be its sharp track-focused handling and aggressive pricing compared to its European rivals.
Pros of KTM RC 990
- Powerful 947cc parallel-twin engine with 130 bhp
- Aggressive and aerodynamic supersport design
- Track-focused handling with lightweight frame
- Packed with modern electronics and rider aids
- Brembo brakes with cornering ABS for safety
- Bi-directional quick-shifter and riding modes included
- Competitive pricing compared to European rivals
Cons of KTM RC 990
- Aggressive riding stance may not suit everyone
- Limited pillion comfort
- High price compared to Japanese rivals
- Stiff suspension on bad Indian roads
- Mileage is low for daily use
Final Verdict
The KTM RC 990 is a supersport motorcycle that will set new benchmarks in the middleweight category. With its aggressive styling, powerful engine, advanced electronics, and race-ready handling, it is built for riders who crave adrenaline and performance. Unlike smaller RCs, the RC 990 is a big leap into premium supersport territory, offering features normally found in superbikes. While it may not be the most practical choice for daily commuting, it is a dream machine for weekend rides, track days, and those who want to own one of the most aggressive bikes in its class.