We think KTM’s about to pop out a 990cc supersport for the hooning masses!
This recent leak of test shots comes hot on the heels of KTM partnering with CFMoto to build LC8C 790’s in the Eastern Hemisphere; while the news of Chinese-built KTM bikes might not rate top on our reader’s list for ‘best ideas,’ we’re thinking this new unit – unofficially christened by the populace as the ‘RC 990’ – will be more likely to stay with the Austrians for her big debut, celebrating Team Orange’s growing successes in FIM.
There’s really not long to wait now; according to CycleWorld, the 990 has had quite a bit done to her since we last saw her in 2021. With KTM phasing out their mad-hatter RC8 in the previous decade, Katoomers have yet to be given a replacement of the 1148 cc V-twin (besides limited-edition RC 8C’s that sell out in under 10 minutes).
With this higher-cc machine, they’ll be getting single air outlets, an aluminum-cast swingarm, WP Apex suspension, Brembo radial-mount brakes, and functioning passenger potential, as seen in the photos.
As we know by now, KTM’s CEO, Stefan Pierer doesn’t believe that crazy fast bikes belong on public roads with the rest of the populace; that being said, pushing the envelope in the parallel-twin category like this has raised some eyebrows.
A parallel-twin that can compete with a V-twin would also show off better specs for mass centralization, a cooler exhaust, and synchronization to stricter emissions regulations (Euro6, possibly?) – all things that could be incredibly useful for the progression of the industry’s future.
Stay tuned for updates, drop a comment below letting us know what you think, and as ever – stay safe on the twisties.