With the launch of the circuit-only KTM 990 RCR Track, KTM isn’t just releasing another limited-edition sportbike — it’s making a statement about accessibility in modern club racing. Priced at £15,599 and already sold out in the UK, the 990 RCR Track is purpose-built for KTM’s six-round one-make 990 RCR Cup series, aimed at non-professional racers seeking a structured pathway into competitive motorsport.
At its core sits KTM’s 947cc LC8c parallel-twin, now producing 133bhp and 77.4 lb-ft of torque — modest gains over the road-going version but meaningful on track. The addition of a lightweight Akrapovič exhaust not only sharpens throttle response but keeps the bike within a 98.2dB noise limit, critical for European circuit regulations. Revised gearing — longer first, shorter sixth — further signals that this machine is tuned for lap times rather than traffic lights.
The weight-saving strategy is straightforward and effective. Lights, mirrors, side stand and road electronics are gone. A simplified electrical system sheds 2kg. What remains is a focused race tool with WP Apex fully adjustable suspension, Michelin Power Slick tyres, and Brembo HyPure calipers gripping 320mm discs. KTM’s Quickshifter+ comes standard here, alongside a pitlane limiter and three fully customisable track modes — allowing granular adjustment of traction control, slip regulation, engine braking and launch control.
Compared with rivals like the Aprilia RS 660 Trofeo or Yamaha’s R7-based race builds, the 990 RCR Track sits in an interesting middle ground. It offers more torque and displacement than typical middleweight twins, yet avoids the escalating costs of litre-class superbikes. For serious amateurs, that balance is attractive.
Could it sell as well in the United States, Canada, mainland Europe or Australia? In Europe, absolutely — track-day culture is strong and noise-compliant race bikes are in demand. Australia, with its vibrant club racing scene, is also a good fit. North America is more nuanced. While the US has large racing grids, riders often gravitate toward Japanese supersports or established one-make series. KTM’s success there would depend heavily on structured championship support similar to the UK Cup format.
Final opinion: The 990 RCR Track is not a flashy halo bike — it’s a pragmatic racer’s tool. By removing road compromises and bundling serious hardware into a ready-to-run package, KTM has created a credible entry point into competitive racing. Its global success will hinge less on performance — which is solid — and more on how well KTM nurtures its racing ecosystem beyond the UK.
