KTM have used EICMA 2026 in Milan to show off a huge amount of updates for 2027, including the new 450 RC.
The Austrian manufacturer showed off new versions of the Super Duke and Adventure range, along with new SX-F Factory Editions, updated versions of the SMC and Enduro models. However, it’s the new 450 RC that really steals the limelight, and will be heading into production late 2027.
KTM 450 RC – The Star Of The Show
The new KTM 450 RC is a new addition to KTM’s supersport range. It will be heading to production as a new 2028 model. It uses a twin cylinder engine unlike KTM’s smaller RC models and the exact figures for the power and torque haven’t been released.
The 450 RC comes with some serious performance spec. It gets a 43mm adjustable WP Apex USD fork up front, along with a WP Apex shock absorber. It has new single sided swingarm. The brakes come in the form of a 320mm disc with a 4 piston radial caliper. They also get Pirelli Diablo Rosso 4 tyres.
It also has some seriously impressive tech, including Cornering ABS, Motorcycle Traction Control, Road/Supermoto ABS modes, Ride Modes, and a 5 inch TFT. This shows that it can easily be used on the road.
Aesthetic Design
It has a much more exotic look than KTM’s smaller RC models. The front of the bike has a very pointy looking fairing. It also has slim LED lights, deep cut sides and multi-layered aerodynamic panels. The tank has a steep rise from the front fairing and comes to a compact rider area. The tail is very short and has a sharp rise.
One of the standout design features is the single sided swingarm. This has given it an open look at the back. It has orange trellis parts, dark bodywork and bright KTM graphics to give it the classic KTM look. The handlebars have a low clip-on setup, with rearset footpegs and a high tail section to give it a committed supersport feel.
New SX-F Models
KTM have shown off their new generation of motocross bikes. The 450 SX-F Factory Edition and 250 SX-F Factory Edition have new frames, engine updates, new geometry, improved ergonomics and new exhausts.
They also have new WP Xact cartridge forks. The rear suspension and frame have been tweaked too. This shows that there will be some real changes to the incoming SX-F range.
Super Duke Updates
The 1390 Super Duke R and R Evo have a new 8.8 inch TFT screen, new handlebar controls, and new Brembo HyPure front calipers. KTM have also added new colours.
The 1390 Super Duke GT will be heading into dealers early 2027. The new GT Evo will use KTM’s Automated Manual Transmission. The GT models now have offline navigation, adjustable windscreen and SP Connect mount.
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Indian Market Updates – Adventure Models
The 390 Adventure R has new left hand switchgear which allows for optional cruise control. This is a great addition for those who ride long distances. It also brings the Adventure R closer to the larger adventure models.
The 390 Adventure X will also have updates coming to the Indian market. It will get a new TFT dashboard, and two new colours. The 790 Adventure gets a new black colour for model year 2027.
SMC & Enduro Updates
KTM’s small on-road off-road models have also received some updates. The 390 SMC R and 390 Enduro R get new colours. The 125 SMC and 125 Enduro are also back with new finishes.
These aren’t massive updates but help to keep KTM’s entry level and mid range off-road models fresh. The SMC R and Enduro R are key models for those wanting versatile bikes.
Race Team
KTM have also shown off their 2027 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing team. It will feature last year’s Dakar winner Luciano Benavides, along with Daniel Sanders and Edgar Canet. This has been announced just before the next Dakar Rally and completes KTM’s race related news at EICMA.
This is important for KTM’s brand image. KTM’s off-road and adventure models are seen as tough and having success in races like the Dakar Rally helps to show how tough their Enduro, Adventure and rally models are.
What It Means For India
The most exciting new model for Indian fans is the 450 RC. However, it won’t be heading into production until late 2027. If it does come to India it would enter the growing middleweight supersport market. It would be a more powerful alternative to the current 390 RC.
The 390 Adventure R and 390 Adventure X have more relevance to Indian riders. The R will now have cruise control and the X has a TFT screen. This should make them more appealing in the competitive middleweight adventure market.
Overall KTM have shown they are moving forwards with their brand. They have a new twin cylinder supersport, updated flagship naked models, next generation motocross models and refreshed adventure/off-road models. Whilst the 450 RC is the standout model, KTM have made sure their current models are still competitive with the updates for 2027.
The main models to look out for are the 450 RC, 390 Adventure R and 390 Adventure X.Whilst the 450 RC may take longer to come to India the Adventure models could come quicker with some real improvements.
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