It’s been a long time coming, held up by KTM’s well-documented financial and corporate struggles over the last year, but now the business is on a more even keel it’s finally launching its new sports model. The KTM 990 RC R uses a version of the familiar twin cylinder LC8c tuned to pump out 128hp – not a huge amount compared to full-fat litre sportsbikes, but competitive in the supersport category that is having a bit of a resurgence. Although KTM boasts a lot of the bike’s Ready To Race sporting heritage, MotoGP-tuned aerodynamics and track abilities, the RC R is designed for real-world use on the streets too, with ergonomics suitable for a wide range of body sizes (not just racing snakes) and tech that provides four riding modes, sat-nav and even cruise control. The RC R comes in two colour options – orange or black – for an SRP of £13,499.
KTM; 01327 850350; www.ktm.com