Key highlights
- KTM RC 490 first-ever test mule spotted in Europe
- Likely to get a new parallel-twin 490cc engine
- Global debut likely to happen later next year
KTM has recently been resurrected by Bajaj after its financial hiatus. The Austrian brand is now working to get back in the game by making new products. One such platform is a 490cc parallel-twin, which was recently spotted testing in Europe. Read its complete details below.
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KTM RC 490: What to expect?
It is not the first time that there have been rumours about KTM making a new sub-500cc platform. In fact, the brand had earlier showcased its plans to make RC490 during an investors meeting. However, these plans were later scrapped as KTMs’ financial burden kept growing.
Now, as the brand has been saved by Bajaj, it is back on track to make newer platforms and new bikes. One such interesting comeback seems to be that of the 490cc. The latest spotting of an unidentified RC model shows that it is possibly the first 490cc bike to hit the road for testing.
The latest spy shots come from Europe, where a new RC 490 test mule was recently seen on the road with radical design changes. The black camouflaged test bike was seen with a new front fascia, a new single projector headlamp, and winglets that are usually seen on the MotoGP bikes or high-end superbikes.
Similarly, the tail section had a new outlook that looked inspired by the earlier test mules of the 2026 RC 390. Other critical details include the fully-adjustable USD forks, aluminium swingarm, and the two-in-one exhaust system.
KTM motorcycles have always been feature-laden, and the RC 490 will also follow the same. We expect it to be equipped with a big TFT console, smartphone connectivity, apps like navigation, ride modes, traction modes, ride-by-wire, cornering ABS, and more.
Speaking of the most important aspect, its engine is likely to be a 490cc, parallel-twin motor that will produce power in the output range of 50-55 bhp. KTM will focus on the reliability of this engine, as it will house other products in the future, including the adventure, naked, and scrambler models.
While KTM and Bajaj officials are silent regarding the 490cc platform development, we assume that it will be developed and manufactured in India. The global debut of the RC 490 can take place at EICMA 2026, while the Indian debut is expected in 2027.
Our say
KTM’s 490cc test bike has raised eyebrows of motorcycle enthusiasts globally. A parallel-twin sub-500cc platform will step up KTM’s game internationally, as the brand will be able to compete with rivals like CFMoto and Royal Enfield’s upcoming 750cc platform with it. More details are awaited as of now.
