KTM RC Range to Receive Major Update in 2027 with Possible Twin-Cylinder Engine

KTM plans to update its RC range towards the end of 2027, according to Manik Nangia, President of Probiking at Bajaj Auto. Nangia shared this information at the Season 3 KTM Cup finale, confirming that a global update is scheduled for the RC lineup. He did not confirm engine details but indicated that the extended timeline suggests significant changes are coming.

Key Highlights

• KTM RC range to receive a global update by late 2027
• New design features include LED headlights and winglets
• Twin-cylinder engine under 500cc in development to replace 390 platform
• Current RC 390 will remain on sale with 373cc engine
• Bajaj and KTM to introduce sub-350cc models for lower tax bracket

Upcoming RC Range Changes

Nangia stated that the new RC models will feature updated designs, including new LED headlights and winglets. He clarified that these visual changes are confirmed, but decisions regarding the platform and engine options are still under evaluation. The current RC 390 uses a single-cylinder engine, but industry sources suggest that KTM and Bajaj Auto are developing a new twin-cylinder engine platform.

This new engine is expected to have a displacement below 500cc. It could eventually replace the existing 390 platform across KTM’s Duke, Adventure, and RC models. Spy images of an adventure model using this engine have already surfaced, indicating ongoing development.

Platform and Engine Developments

The next-generation RC will not be based on the CF Moto 450 platform, despite sightings of a KTM RC prototype using the CFMoto 450SR-S platform. There is no confirmation if this prototype will be sold overseas, and it is unlikely to be launched in India.

Following the introduction of GST 2.0, Bajaj Auto brands plan to launch new models with engines under 350cc to fit within a lower tax bracket. Triumph will launch its bikes in the first week of April, with KTM and Bajaj models to follow. This will result in two platforms coexisting: a new sub-350cc platform and the current 390cc platform.

The development of a larger parallel-twin engine aims to create a clear distinction between these platforms. The Bajaj-developed KTM twin-cylinder platform remains under development. Sumeet Narang, President Marketing at Bajaj Auto, recently confirmed that the current generation RC 390 will continue to be sold. It remains the only KTM model still using the previous 373cc engine platform.