EICMA 2026: KTM unveils the 2028 KTM 450 RC
The KTM 450 RC is expected to arrive in late 2027 and will feature a new twin-cylinder engine
Not wanting to lag behind other manufacturers, KTM has pulled the wraps off the 450 RC at EICMA 2026, but is refusing to say too much about the bike; here is what we do know.
KTM says the chassis setup is new, featuring its own calibration and specification. Suspension by WP Apex comprises a 43mm USD fork at the front and a monoshock at the rear. While the fork gets adjustment for rebound and compression, the monoshock works with a single-sided swingarm.
Braking duties will be handled by a 320mm disc at the front with a 4-piston radial WP calliper and a single disc at the rear whose specs haven’t been disclosed. Although there are no details for the wheel size, we reckon they will be 17-inch alloys. What we do know is that they are shod with Pirelli Diablo Rosso 4 tyres, which are offered as standard.
KTM also offers riding aids like cornering ABS, Dual-channel ABS, and multiple ride modes, which can all be accessed and adjusted via the 5-inch TFT instrument panel. Although it has been disclosed, we can see at first glance that the bike gets a steering damper and winglets.
Production is planned to begin in late 2027, with the KTM 450 RC arriving as a 2028 model-year motorcycle; further details and pricing will be announced closer to the production date. The KTM 450 RC is likely to be launched in India, although the timeline has not been revealed yet.
