From racetrack-ready aggression to long-distance adventure dominance, KTM is bringing four heavyweight contenders into the spotlight, with Malaysian riders among those watching closely.
KTM is making a powerful statement in the premium motorcycle segment with the 990 RC R supersport and the 1390 Super Adventure family, comprising the S, R and technologically advanced S EVO.
For Malaysian enthusiasts, the developments are especially significant as local distributor ETG (Eurotech Group, formerly Eurotech Wheel) prepares to strengthen KTM’s presence with new performance and adventure motorcycles.
The 990 RC R is expected to spearhead KTM’s supersport offensive, while the three 1390 Super Adventure models target riders seeking high-performance touring, off-road capability and sophisticated electronic rider assistance.
Malaysian launch plans have been reported, but local retail prices and final delivery details should be confirmed through ETG
KTM 990 RC R — The Austrian Supersport Is Back
Nearly two decades after the KTM RC8 demonstrated the Austrian manufacturer’s ability to build serious large-capacity sports motorcycles, KTM has developed a new supersport machine combining racing technology with road usability.
The 2026 KTM 990 RC R is powered by a 947cc LC8c parallel-twin engine producing approximately 128 PS and 103 Nm of torque.
Unlike traditional inline-four supersports that rely heavily on high engine speeds, the KTM’s twin-cylinder configuration promises a different character, with substantial torque and responsive acceleration.
The motorcycle features a purpose-built steel frame, aluminium subframe, fully adjustable WP APEX suspension and premium Brembo HyPure front brake calipers.
Its electronics package includes a six-axis IMU, cornering traction control, multiple riding modes and configurable ABS settings. Riders also get an eight-inch TFT display, while additional track-oriented functions are available depending on equipment and software configuration.
KTM has paid particular attention to ergonomics, offering adjustable footpegs and controls to help riders adapt the motorcycle for road riding or circuit use.
KTM 990 RC R — Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 947cc LC8c parallel twin |
| Power | 127.84 PS |
| Torque | 103 Nm |
| Transmission | Six-speed |
| Front suspension | 48mm WP APEX adjustable fork |
| Rear suspension | WP APEX linkage shock |
| Front brakes | Dual 320mm discs, Brembo HyPure calipers |
| Seat height | 845mm |
| Fuel capacity | 15.7 litres |
| Weight without fuel | 184kg |
KTM’s official technical information specifications above.
For Malaysian riders who enjoy track days at Sepang International Circuit, the 990 RC R represents an interesting alternative to conventional Japanese supersport motorcycles.
Its combination of torque, chassis adjustability and electronic assistance could appeal to riders who want a motorcycle capable of serious circuit performance without sacrificing road practicality. Price RM113,000 only excluding roadtax and insurance.
KTM 1390 Super Adventure S — The High-Performance Grand Tourer
The KTM 1390 Super Adventure S targets riders who want powerful road-biased adventure performance.
Designed primarily for touring and spirited riding on paved roads, the S combines the performance of KTM’s large-capacity V-twin with a commanding riding position and modern electronics.
Its appeal is straightforward: riders can cover long highway distances, enjoy winding mountain roads and carry luggage without moving to a dedicated touring motorcycle.
For Malaysian motorcyclists, that makes the Super Adventure S particularly relevant for interstate rides, including journeys through the peninsula and into Thailand.
KTM 1390 Super Adventure R — Built for the Toughest Adventures
Where the S prioritises road touring, the KTM 1390 Super Adventure R is designed for riders who want greater off-road capability.
The R follows KTM’s established adventure philosophy, emphasising long-travel suspension, off-road-oriented wheel and tyre choices, protective equipment and rider-focused ergonomics.
For Malaysian adventure riders exploring gravel routes, plantation roads and challenging trails, the R is the more specialised member of the family.
However, a large adventure motorcycle still demands appropriate tyres, rider skill and careful route selection, particularly when conditions become muddy or slippery.
KTM 1390 Super Adventure S EVO — Adventure Touring Meets Intelligent Technology
The KTM 1390 Super Adventure S EVO is arguably the most technologically interesting model of the group.
Its headline innovation is KTM’s Automated Manual Transmission (AMT), designed to reduce the workload of conventional gear changing while retaining the character and performance of a large-capacity motorcycle.
The S EVO uses a 1,350cc V-twin producing 173 PS and 145 Nm, paired with a six-speed transmission.
It also features WP semi-active suspension, allowing electronically controlled damping behaviour to respond to riding conditions.
Additional touring-oriented equipment includes a 23-litre fuel tank and adjustable seat height between 847mm and 867mm.
KTM 1390 Super Adventure S EVO — Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1,350cc, 75-degree V-twin |
| Power | 173 PS |
| Torque | 145 Nm |
| Transmission | Six-speed with AMT |
| Suspension | WP semi-active, front and rear |
| Suspension travel | 220mm front / 220mm rear |
| Front/rear wheels | 19-inch / 17-inch |
| Fuel tank | 23 litres |
| Seat height | 847–867mm |
| Weight without fuel | 227kg |
These figures are drawn from KTM’s published specifications for the 2026 S EVO.
For riders who regularly undertake long-distance touring, the AMT system could be especially attractive in heavy traffic, during extended highway journeys and when travelling with a passenger and luggage.
Rather than abandoning performance, KTM is attempting to make a powerful adventure motorcycle easier to operate across a wider range of riding situations.
Four KTM Models, Four Different Riding Experiences
The new lineup gives Malaysian riders four distinct choices, rather than simply different specifications of the same motorcycle.
| Model | Main strength | Engine output |
|---|---|---|
| KTM 990 RC R | Road and track supersport | 127.84 PS / 103 Nm |
| KTM 1390 Super Adventure S | Road-focused touring | 173 PS / 145 Nm |
| KTM 1390 Super Adventure R | Serious adventure and off-road riding | 173 PS / 145 Nm |
| KTM 1390 Super Adventure S EVO | High-tech touring with AMT | 173 PS / 145 Nm |
The three 1390 models share KTM’s 1,350cc V-twin engine with CAMSHIFT variable-valve technology, which uses different intake-cam profiles to improve low-rpm rideability and high-rpm performance. The R distinguishes itself with 21-inch front and 18-inch rear spoked wheels, WP XPLOR suspension and 240mm suspension travel at both ends
