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The KTM 990 RC R Track arrives as a production motorcycle built specifically for circuit use, taking the road-going 990 RC R platform and stripping it of road conveniences to deliver a factory-ready race machine. Based on the model that earned MCN’s 2026 Bike of the Year, this non-homologated version is aimed squarely at track riders and one-make cup competitors.
Built straight out of the pitlane
Because it is not road legal, the 990 RC R Track ships without mirrors, conventional lighting or ABS. KTM supplies a full track fairing, a paddock stand, a brake lever guard and a rain light; there’s no sidestand. Fitment and finishing are deliberately race-focused, including a quick-release fuel cap and attention to detail across the bodywork.
It rolls on **Michelin Power Slick 2** tyres and wears a lightweight **Akrapovič** exhaust. The system trims around 3kg from the bike’s mass and comes with a baffle to limit noise to 98.2dB for quieter events.
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Engine and transmission
At the heart of the Track sits the **947cc LC8c parallel-twin**, tuned to deliver about 5bhp and 1.5lb.ft more than the road version. KTM has revised gearbox ratios for race use, giving a longer first gear and a shorter sixth to suit closed-circuit demands.
The quickshifter operates smoothly both up and down the gearbox. Power delivery is lively enough for larger grand-prix style circuits while remaining less savage than many big superbikes — a balance aimed at lap consistency rather than sheer intimidation.
Electronics tailored for the circuit
The Track ditches the larger dash of the road model for a smaller 4.2in TFT and a simplified wiring harness that saves roughly 2kg. KTM has focused software and hardware on track performance: three track modes let riders alter **throttle response, traction control, slip regulation, anti-wheelie, launch control** and engine braking in detail.
Switchgear is pared back for easier adjustments while under way. The display layout is configurable and the bike includes a pit limiter and launch control, features normally found on factory-spec race machines.
Ergonomics and agility
Ergonomically the Track abandons the compromise of the road model and adopts a more aggressive, race-biased setup. The seat is flatter and higher, clip-ons sit 10mm lower and three degrees tilted down, and the adjustable rearsets are raised by 25mm to improve ground clearance.
Changing up to a race-style shifter is a simple matter of moving a screw connection point. Those changes, combined with a 14kg reduction versus the road-going 990 RC R, sharpen the bike’s agility and make it easier to flick from apex to apex.
Chassis, suspension and brakes
The 990 RC R Track uses the same steel frame, subframe and swingarm as the road model but adopts a quicker steering geometry and the latest **WP APEX** suspension both front and rear. Settings are firmer throughout to cope with sustained, committed track riding.
Stopping power comes from **Brembo HyPure** four-piston calipers biting twin 320mm front discs, with a 240mm single-piston rear disc. With no road ABS to moderate feel, the brakes offer direct feedback and strong bite at the lever.
Racing programme and extras
KTM supports a one-make KTM 990 RC R Cup that runs across Europe for both the road and Track variants. The series is scheduled to continue in 2027, with KTM to publish the calendar and additional details in due course.
MCN documented a wildcard outing by Deputy Editor Carl Stevens at Brno, illustrating how the Track performs in race conditions.
Verdict from MCN
MCN’s summary is succinct: the Track “goes to the next level.” By removing road-oriented compromises and sharpening chassis, electronics and rider ergonomics, KTM has produced a light, agile machine that behaves like a modern supersport and is ready to race straight from the factory.
Key specs |
|
|---|---|
| Engine size | 947cc |
| Engine type | DOHC parallel twin |
| Max power | 133 bhp |
| Max torque | 77.4 ft-lb |
| Bike weight | 181kg |
| Fuel capacity | 15.7 litres |
| Seat height | 857mm |
| Front suspension | Fully adjustable 48mm WP APEX fork |
| Rear suspension | Fully adjustable WP APEX shock |
| Front brake | 2 x 320mm discs with Brembo HyPure four-piston calipers |
| Rear brake | 240mm disc, single-piston caliper |
| Front tyre | 120/70 x 17in |
| Rear tyre | 190/55 x 17in |
| New price | £15,599 |
| Warranty | None |
| Annual road tax | £125 |
