European premiere at EICMA: KTM 450 RC sports bike for the A2 category

KTM pulled a surprise out of the hat at EICMA 2026: describing it themselves as an ‘unexpected appearance’ and without any mention during the opening ceremony, the Mattighofen-based firm announced the launch of the 450 RC in Europe at Milan’s leading trade fair.

SPEEDWEEK.com readers will recall that the 450 RC was unveiled for the Chinese market in April 2026. This is no coincidence; after all, its technical basis is similar to that of the CF Moto 450SR-S – the frame, engine and single-sided swingarm are identical to those on the model produced by KTM’s Chinese manufacturing partner. Now, the Inntal-based company is planning to bring the 990 RC R’s little sister to Europe as well. No wonder, given that the market for sports bikes with small in-line twin-cylinder engines is becoming increasingly important in our part of the world.

In the summer of 2026, KTM CEO Gottfried Neumeister had hinted at an RC version of the future 490 family in a post on the company’s own channels. In a separate press release, KTM describes the 450 RC as a motorcycle designed by KTM, offering ‘class-leading performance’. To this end, the 450 RC features an adjustable 43-millimetre fork from long-standing supplier WP. It is also WP that supplies the rear shock absorber, which is adjustable for spring preload and rebound damping, as well as the braking system featuring a 320-millimetre front disc.

Die KTM 450 RC

Foto: KTM

KTM 450 RC: Design language of its big sister, the 990 RC R

Pirelli Diablo Rosso 4 tyres ensure precise road holding, whilst cornering ABS, dual-channel MTC, Road and Supermoto modes for the brakes, and several riding modes for the engine round off the electronics package. This technology is housed in a design by Kiska, which translates the styling of its big sister, the 990 RC R, into the smaller class.

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The Mattighofen-based manufacturer has yet to release performance figures for the European market, as the type-approval process for local markets is not yet complete. It is not yet certain when the 450 RC will subsequently be launched here. The motorbike is already officially listed at the trade fair under the 2028 model year. On social media, KTM is talking about a market launch at the end of 2027.

Die KTM 450 RC

Foto: KTM