KTM confirms 490 RC as brand eyes next generation of entry-level big bikes
KTM is slowly getting back on its feet after one of the toughest periods in its storied history, backed by fresh investment from Indian automotive giant Bajaj Auto. Now, the Austrian brand appears ready to turn its attention back to new products, including what could become the successor to its popular 390 platform.
Speaking to racing journalist Adam Wheeler, KTM CEO Gottfried Neumeister revealed that the company is preparing to expand its fully faired RC lineup, confirming that a 490cc model is in the pipeline.
“We definitely want to extend our RC line-up; the 990 was first, and we’ll have a 790 and a 490 like other brands with mid-and-lower-class presence and in a segment that is growing. We’re really proud that the KTM 990 RC R won so many test reviews against other models. The pay-off with MotoGP is now clearer, whereas before we didn’t have a full-faired bike.”
KTM CEO Gottfried Neumeister
Neumeister also explained why KTM continues to invest in MotoGP despite its financial struggles. While the company is best known for its off-road machines, he said street motorcycles now account for roughly half of KTM’s revenue, making racing an important tool for developing future road-going models.
“So, the street segment of the market has become a very important area for KTM. We make half of our revenue with street models. So, we want to show this expertise, and not through participating in smaller championships, but by being right at the top and showing that we not only can compete but try to be a benchmark for others in some aspects.”
While Neumeister only mentioned the 490 RC, the new platform is widely expected to spawn additional models, including a next-generation Duke and Adventure, much like KTM’s existing 390 family.
For many Filipino riders, KTM’s 390 range has long been one of the most accessible gateways into the big-bike segment, offering enough displacement for expressway use without reaching the price tags of larger machines. If the 490 platform eventually replaces it, buyers can look forward to more choices in what has become one of the country’s most competitive motorcycle segments.
