KTM’s RC Lineup May Feature New Engines: Test Mules Spotted

KTM is working on a new 500cc twin-cylinder engine for its adventure and naked bike models. In addition, a faired RC version has been observed during testing. Autocar magazine has reported that the new twin-cylinder RC could incorporate an engine from CF Moto. Prototypes of the Duke 500 and the adventure bike appeared to be preliminary, while the new RC seems to be closer to production. Images from Motorrad magazine show a nearly completed motorcycle. The KTM RC 490’s engine, along with the main chassis, might be provided by CFMoto. The bike’s full fairing obscures much of the engine, though the exhaust downpipes are similar to those used on CFMoto models. The parallel-twin design from CFMoto contrasts with the engine layouts of the earlier KTM prototypes, including the exhaust downpipes. This suggests the model could be the KTM RC 490. It is believed that this motorcycle is built on the CFMoto platform. Given that the current KTM RC 390 still uses the 373cc engine, KTM might be seeking a new engine for the next-generation RC. Details are currently based on observations of the new sports bike.