The 990 RC R prototype, which will eventually become KTM’s brand-new premier road-homologated sports bike, was revealed. In order to concentrate on creating naked and adventure motorbikes, KTM stated in 2015 that it would stop producing its street-legal superbikes and discontinue the RC8. The 990 RC R is the RC8’s replacement, and it aims to carry on its heritage. Pictures presently show off a prototype that has been concealed; the whole design has not yet been revealed.
KTM has revealed that the 947cc LC8c parallel twin engine, which is expected to produce 128 horsepower and 103 Nm, will power the 990 RC R. In the contemporary 990 Duke, the same powertrain generates 103 Nm and 123 horsepower. The diecast aluminum subframe and steel frame of the 990 RC R, according to KTM, will have a greater weight lean towards the front end. KTM further states that for improved agility and stability during acceleration, the 990 RC R chassis’ stiffness has been strengthened.
The WP Apex open cartridge suspension and Michelin tires mounted on cast aluminum wheels will be features of the 990 RC R. This motorbike was created by KTM in a wind tunnel, and it incorporates aerodynamic wings from its MotoGP bikes that, according to the company, provide it with more stability when braking and cornering. KTM also noted that engineers have put a lot of effort into making sure that the ergonomics of the street and the track are comfortably balanced.
KTM last produced road-legal sports bikes with the 1190 RC8 and RC8 R models, both of which are now discontinued. Also, KTM manufactured a limited edition, track-only RC 8C for a brief period of time, which sold out.
Additionally, a track edition of the RC 990 R will be produced, which will omit all components required for road legality and replace them with components such as motorcycle protection parts and an Akrapovic full-system exhaust. Additionally, KTM has stated that the RC 990 R is intended to be a focused supersport and that “minimal modifications” will be required to convert the bike from street to track specification.
KTM has decided to bravely rejoin the middleweight class after a protracted absence, where it will face off against bikes like the Kawasaki ZX6R, Ducati Panigale V2, and Honda CBR600RR. Motorcyclists will be on the edge of their seats as a result of this thrilling development, which is guaranteed to heat up the battle.
