Next-Gen KTM RC Confirmed For 2027
The upcoming bike is expected to get a twin-cylinder engine, and will directly compete with the Aprilia RS457
The KTM 390 Duke and 390 Adventure are already using the updated LC4C motor (398cc), while the KTM RC 390, which is still using the older 373cc motor , is due for a major update. But it won’t be happening soon. At the Season 3 finale of the KTM Cup, Manik Nangia, Bajaj Auto’s Probiking head, shared that the next big upgrade for the RC will most likely arrive by late 2027. The long wait suggests this won’t be just a small facelift, but rather a significant update. Also, it's worth noting here that this will be different from the CFMoto 450SR-S based RC450 that was spotted earlier.
Sharper, Track-Focused Design
The upcoming RC is expected to look sharper and more aggressive than ever. Early design sketches show a redesigned LED headlight and the addition of aerodynamic winglets, said Nangnia.
New Engine Likely
Bajaj Auto and KTM are working together on a new parallel-twin engine platform that is likely to be under 500cc. This engine is expected to replace the current 398cc setup across multiple bikes, including the Duke, Adventure, and RC range. Test bikes using this new engine have already been seen in Europe, hinting that development is progressing well. If introduced in the RC, this would mark a shift from the current single-cylinder setup to a smoother, and more powerful twin-cylinder motor.
The RC lineup is likely to be the first on this platform, since it is still a generation behind Duke and the ADV. There’s also a chance KTM could split its supersport lineup into two segments. A smaller-capacity RC (possibly around 350cc) could target buyers looking for better pricing, while a higher-performance RC with the new twin-cylinder engine could cater to experienced riders.
Current RC 390 Continues For Now
For now, the existing KTM RC 390 will stay on sale. Despite being the only KTM model still using the older engine, it should be available until the new generation is ready.
When it finally arrives, the next-gen RC could be a big step forward rather than just a simple update. It may also put KTM in a stronger position against rivals like the Aprilia RS457 and the Kawasaki Ninja 500. Until then, the current RC 390 will continue to do duty while KTM works behind the scenes on this major upgrade.
KTM RC 390 User Reviews
- A delightful experience with my bikeIt's very comfortable bike and I enjoyed it a lot but it's mileage is not a fact ... Because it's very fun to Ride it's engine is so refined that I can easily pull it up in traffic.... It's pick up and top speed is so good and it's graphics designing and electronics are so spoty and usefull ... Highly recommend to ride it onceRead More2
- Ride smartthe bike offers a smooth ride and great fuel, efficiency perfect for daily commuting its stylish design and reliable performance make it great value for money.it seeks design and comfortable seating satisfying experience for both new and experienced rides.we can handle better in both city traffic and off roadingRead More1 1
- Dream come trueI always wanted to buy a Duke when i was kid it was my first love as i saw it from my school bus a college student was riding it and i just fell in love and now as i am 20 yrs old my father gift me ktm 390rc on my birthday its a really bewautiful bike but milage is not pocket friendly and colour is little too vibrant otherwise i like orange on ktm as its their best colourRead More1
- A bike which is only judged by its looks and but not by its power the mighty 39TA bike with good looks and with a good power with a semi fairing the initial speed is best in the segment and the leading class bike but lack in proper updates made its sales very slow and it caused the marketing a criteria of this bike section is of the leading one and its competitors like rr310 ninja 300 and many other are less powerful and less confidental infront of this machineRead More
- Best performance bike in its segment.Im using RC 390 since the past 8 months I got a better experience while riding the vehicle. It gives a better mileage while comparing to its power and performance. I got around 22 to 27 kmpl mileage. But the riding comfort is not good we can't take it to a long ride. Overall it's a beast in its segment.Read More