By Carl Stevens Published: Yesterday 16:30
‘Ready to race’ is a mantra that runs deep in KTM’s DNA, but there isn’t a model in their current range that embodies that spirit like the 990 RC R Track.
It utilises the standard, road-going 990 RC R as a base, which has shown itself as an incredible performer on both road and track and even took the coveted title of MCN’s 2026 Bike of the Year, but with a host of upgrades that aren’t restricted by homologation (it’s not road legal), the 990 RC R Track is a serious weapon.
Whether you want to race and chase laptimes or just enjoy your trackdays, the 990 RC R Track delivers, straight out of the crate.
Reasons to buy: + Full race-ready package straight from the crate, no additional parts needed + Fits a range of rider sizes with generous and adjustable ergonomics + Highly competent track-focused electronics, braking components and suspension, with a catalogue of upgrades should you desire a higher performance ceiling or additional crash protection
Reasons to avoid: – Those looking for ultimate circuit thrills may find it underpowered and not edgy enough – Despite technical support from KTM, there is no factory warranty like the road-going 990 RC R – As a dedicated track-tool destined to live on circuit (and at risk of the odd spill), it’s twice the price of a well-sorted used supersport weapon and not a convincingly better choice for casual trackdays
As it’s not homologated for the road, the 990 RC R Track comes ready to roll out of pitlane straight from the production line.
There are no mirrors, no lights (besides a rain light), no ABS, a track fairing kit, no sidestand (but you do get a paddock stand ), a lightweight Akrapovič exhaust, Michelin Power Slick 2 race tyres and a brake lever guard, which is now mandatory for trackdays and club racing.
These are all necessary changes for building the ultimate track tool, and the fit and finish on the 990 RC R Track is sublime – from the fairing fitment to the fact that it comes with a quick-release fuel cap, the detailing has been well thought out and looks the part.
One of the jewels in the 990 RC R Track’s crown comes in the form of its 947cc LC8c parallel-twin. With an extra 5bhp and 1.5lb.ft compared to the road-going unit, the Track gets revised gearbox ratios, with a longer first gear and a shorter sixth gear.
The quickshifter is slick up and down the ’box while it offers enough power to still be exciting on larger, GP-style tracks, but doesn’t quite rip your arms off like a big superbike so often does.
The Akrapovič exhaust system has a lovely, throaty tone to it and also sheds 3kg of weight – plus, it comes with a baffle to keep noise down to 98.2dB which will allow it to run on quieter trackdays.
The 990 RC R Track’s electronics are vastly different from the standard road-going model, being equipped with a smaller, 4.2in TFT dash and a tweaked wiring harness (which sheds 2kg) powering a raft of optimised riding aids and modes.
The range of adjustment on offer is spectacular; three track modes allow for full adjustment of the throttle response, traction control, slip regulation, anti-wheelie, launch control and engine braking.
The electronic intervention is slick from the traction and wheelie control under heavy acceleration, and the switchgear has been simplified for ease of adjustment on the go.
The layout is customisable, so you can have the exact data you want to see in front of you and you also get a pit limiter and launc…