2026-08-08
KTM has confirmed that the RC 490 and RC 790 are currently under development. KTM CEO Gottfried Neumeister revealed the plans in a recent interview, confirming that the company will expand its RC supersport range with two new motorcycles.
KTM RC 490
The upcoming KTM RC 490 is expected to use a new platform jointly developed by KTM and Bajaj. Unlike the China-exclusive RC 450, the RC 490 will reportedly be based on a different architecture and could use a twin-cylinder engine derived from the 390 platform.
There is currently no official launch date for the RC 490.
KTM RC 790
The KTM RC 790 is expected to share its platform and engine technology with the recently updated 790 Duke. It could use the LC8c parallel-twin engine, which produces around 104hp and 87Nm in the 790 Duke. The RC version is likely to receive a sportier engine tune and chassis setup.
What About the RC 390?
KTM has not yet confirmed the arrival of a Gen-3 RC 390. The current RC 390 in India continues to use the older 373cc engine, while the newer-generation 390 Duke uses the updated 399cc platform.
For now, KTM is expected to focus on expanding its RC lineup with the new RC 490 and RC 790, although official launch timelines are still awaited.
KTM Expanding Its RC Supersport Family
KTM’s decision to introduce both the RC 490 and RC 790 highlights the company’s intention to strengthen its presence in multiple supersport categories.
The manufacturer recently expanded its high-performance RC portfolio with the 990 RC R, followed by the track-focused 990 RC R Cup. The addition of the RC 790 and RC 490 would give KTM a broader range of fully faired performance motorcycles across different engine capacities.
For now, KTM has not revealed detailed specifications, pricing or launch timelines for either upcoming motorcycle. More information is expected to emerge as development progresses.
