KTM has officially expanded its supersport lineup with the launch of the 2026 KTM 990 RC R Track, a dedicated track-only motorcycle designed for competitive riding and circuit-focused enthusiasts. Positioned above the standard road-going model, this new variant has been engineered specifically for track days and club racing, offering weight savings, upgraded components, and race-ready ergonomics.
The motorcycle will be available through authorized KTM dealerships and comes as a non-street-legal machine aimed at riders who prioritize performance over everyday usability. With specialized modifications and racing equipment fitted as standard, the model represents KTM’s “Ready To Race” philosophy in its purest form.
Track-Focused Design and Weight Reduction
The track-only motorcycle sheds approximately 30.8 pounds compared to the standard 990 RC R, thanks to the removal of road-legal components and the addition of lightweight racing parts. It is offered in a single color scheme, allowing riders and teams to apply their own graphics or sponsor decals.
Durability has also been prioritized, with color-injected molded plastic fairings replacing conventional painted panels. This material choice improves resilience during competitive use while simplifying maintenance and part replacement.
Several bodywork sections, including the belly pan, front mask, and seat unit, have been redesigned to allow quicker installation and removal. These updates are particularly useful for race teams that frequently service motorcycles between sessions.
Pricing and Racing Series Participation
The 2026 KTM 990 RC R Track carries an MSRP of $16,499, placing it about $2,500 above the standard version. Despite the price increase, KTM highlights that the included race-ready components would exceed this premium if installed individually on the road model.
The motorcycle is also eligible to compete in the newly introduced KTM 990 RC R Cup, a six-round single-make European racing series scheduled to begin this year. The platform itself was developed with FIM Next Generation Supersport regulations in mind, potentially opening opportunities for participation in future championships such as FIM World Supersport and AMA MotoAmerica Supersport.
Engine Performance and Transmission Updates
Powering the track-only motorcycle is the same 947cc liquid-cooled LC8c parallel-twin engine found in the standard 990 RC R, but with key performance enhancements. The addition of an Akrapovič Evolution Line stainless-steel exhaust system increases both power and torque while reducing weight by more than 6.6 pounds.
Here is a quick overview of major engine specifications:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | LC8c parallel twin |
| Displacement | 947cc |
| Maximum Power | 133 hp @ 10,000 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 77 lb-ft @ 7,000 rpm |
| Compression Ratio | 13.5:1 |
| Transmission | 6-speed with quickshifter |
Gear ratios have been revised for racing performance. First gear is now longer to improve race starts and corner exits, while sixth gear is shorter to expand the usable rev range at higher speeds. A race-spec X-ring 520 chain replaces the standard unit for improved durability and efficiency.
Circuit-Specific Electronics Package
The 2026 KTM 990 RC R Track features a redesigned electronics suite optimized exclusively for track riding. Road-oriented features such as ABS, cruise control, connectivity modules, and standard ride modes have been removed to streamline performance.
In their place, KTM has installed an IMU-supported system that includes adjustable traction control, wheelie control, and engine braking. These rider aids can be fine-tuned according to track conditions and riding preferences.
An up-and-down quickshifter is provided as standard equipment, enabling faster gear changes and improved lap times.
Simplified Dashboard and Controls
A smaller 4.2-inch landscape TFT display replaces the larger 8.8-inch unit found on the street model. The compact screen features anti-glare, anti-reflective, and anti-fingerprint coatings to ensure clear visibility during racing conditions.
The interface can switch between a full data layout and a simplified racing view that prioritizes key information such as gear position and engine revs. Switchgear has also been redesigned, eliminating horn and high-beam controls in favor of lap timer adjustments and traction control settings.
The traditional key ignition system has been replaced by a start button, enabling KTM to simplify the wiring harness and achieve additional weight savings.
Chassis, Suspension, and Braking Components
The motorcycle shares its chromoly steel frame with the standard model, using the engine as a stressed structural member. An aluminum subframe and swingarm contribute to rigidity and weight balance, with distribution maintained at 52.5% front and 47.5% rear.
Suspension duties are handled by WP Apex components, including a fully adjustable 48mm inverted fork and a track-tuned rear shock. Both units feature revised damping and spring rates tailored for circuit performance.
The braking system continues to use high-performance hardware from Brembo and Galfer:
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Front Brakes | Dual 320mm floating discs with Brembo HyPure calipers |
| Rear Brake | Single 240mm Galfer disc |
| Brake Circuit | Direct hydraulic routing without ABS modulator |
By removing the ABS modulator, KTM provides a more direct braking feel between the master cylinder and calipers, which is often preferred by experienced track riders.
Ergonomic Changes for Racing Precision
Significant ergonomic adjustments distinguish the track-only motorcycle from its road-focused counterpart. The seat height has been increased to 33.7 inches, and a flatter seat profile allows easier body positioning during aggressive riding.
Low-mounted clip-on handlebars sit 10mm lower and are angled downward to shift rider weight forward, improving front-end feedback. Gilles footpegs are relocated 25mm rearward and 17mm higher, offering adjustable positioning for different riding styles.
The gear shifter linkage can also be quickly reversed to enable GP-style shifting, adding further flexibility for racing setups.
Competition Debut and Availability
The six-round KTM 990 RC R Cup racing series is set to begin on April 23, with the opening event scheduled at the Almería Circuit in Spain. Riders interested in seeing the 2026 KTM 990 RC R Track in action will have the opportunity to watch competitive performances before making a purchase decision.
With race-focused durability, upgraded performance components, and simplified electronics, the motorcycle has been designed to deliver an engaging experience for serious track enthusiasts.
Conclusion
The launch of the 2026 KTM 990 RC R Track highlights KTM’s commitment to developing purpose-built racing motorcycles for circuit use. As a track-only motorcycle, it offers significant weight reduction, enhanced engine performance, race-tuned suspension, and simplified electronics tailored for competitive riding.
Its eligibility for the KTM 990 RC R Cup and potential participation in future supersport championships further emphasize its performance-oriented positioning. For riders seeking a dedicated track machine without the need for road-legal modifications, the new model represents a comprehensive racing solution straight from the factory.