KTM 990 RC R Track: Priority access bonus for cup riders first

KTM has introduced the 990 RC R Track as a purpose-built race motorcycle, not just a modified road bike. The company revealed the Track version alongside the launch of the road-legal 990 RC R and the announcement of the KTM 990 RC R CUP. This new Cup is a six-round, professionally organized European racing series for non-professional riders. KTM aims to provide a structured entry into amateur racing, offering full-season Cup entrants priority allocation of the 990 RC R Track motorcycle.

Key Highlights

• KTM has introduced the 990 RC R Track as a purpose-built race motorcycle, not just a modified road bike.
• The company revealed the Track version alongside the launch of the road-legal 990 RC R and the announcement of the KTM 990 RC R CUP.
• This new Cup is a six-round, professionally organized European racing series for non-professional riders.
• KTM aims to provide a structured entry into amateur racing, offering full-season Cup entrants priority allocation of the 990 RC R Track motorcycle.

Racing Series and Participant Benefits

Riders who register for the full season receive prioritized delivery of the 990 RC R Track. KTM supports these participants with race-upgrade recommendations, technical assistance, and event services throughout the season. Full-season entrants also gain access to a dedicated KTM PowerParts and WP Pro Components race upgrade kit. This managed approach to amateur racing distinguishes the package from typical track-only motorcycles, which often lack a supporting competition environment.

Technical Specifications and Features

The 990 RC R Track uses KTM's EU 5+-compliant 947cc parallel-twin DOHC LC8c engine. In Track form, the engine produces 132 HP and 105 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm. The increase in output is mainly due to the full Akrapovic Evolution exhaust system, which is made from stainless steel, weighs 3 kg, and supports a five-level engine-brake configuration. The racing gearbox features a longer first gear and a shorter sixth gear, optimized for circuit use.

KTM describes the 990 RC R Track as a non-homologated, race-ready bike with lower maintenance and easier repairs. The motorcycle omits street equipment such as lights, mirrors, and a side stand. Instead, it includes a brake lever protector, rear aluminum sprocket protector, quick-release fuel cap, wet-weather taillight, paddock bobbins, and a paddock stand. The fairings are made from injected plastic for easier replacement and custom graphics application.

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Electronics and Chassis Details

The Track model features three customizable ride modes—Track 1, Track 2, and Track 3. These modes allow adjustments to throttle response, traction control, anti-wheelie, launch control, and engine braking. The 4.2-inch landscape TFT display is tailored for circuit use, showing ride mode status, pit limiter, and Quickshifter+ operation. KTM removed the connectivity unit and simplified the wiring harness, reducing the electronics system weight by 2 kg compared to the road bike.

Other highlights include Michelin Power Slick 2 tyres, 320 mm Brembo front discs with HyPure calipers, a 240 mm Galfer rear disc, and a dry weight of 170 kg. The chassis geometry features a 52.5:47.5 front-to-rear weight distribution, 33 mm offset, and 25-degree steering angle. The aluminum die-cast swingarm is tuned for increased flex and stability on track surfaces.

Cup Structure and Availability

The KTM 990 RC R CUP offers 35 places for the 2026 season, with over half already filled by November. The series is not available in India, as entry requires ownership of a street-legal 990 RC R or the track-only 990 RC R Track, both purchased through authorized KTM dealers. The six-round calendar will visit Almería, Brno, Hockenheim, Misano, the Red Bull Ring, and Most from April to September 2026.

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Conclusion

The KTM 990 RC R Track's priority bonus for Cup riders first transforms grassroots racing, blending factory allocation, technical backing, and a pure track focus into an unbeatable package. Aspiring racers gain pro-level access without elite barriers, fueling passion on Europe's top circuits.