NEVER STOP! KTM 990 RC R Development, Chapter 3 – The Final Product | KTM

Summary

The KTM 990 RC R is a highly ambitious, purpose-built sportbike that blends track-ready performance with street usability. From its initial 'Frankenstein' prototype to its final production-ready form, the project evolved through rigorous testing, prototyping, and feedback loops. With input from various departments, including R&D, design, and management, the bike aims to fill a gap in the market for a SuperSport bike that performs well both on the track and street. Featuring cutting-edge features like a new fuel tank design, advanced braking systems, and optimized ergonomics, the 990 RC R is set to redefine the future of SuperSport motorcycles.

Takeaways

• 😀 KTM's 990 RC R is designed as the ultimate 'ready to race' bike, blending street and track performance without compromise.
• 😀 The 990 RC R project began as an ambitious prototype (P1) and evolved through several stages, from a Frankenstein model to a production-ready bike.
• 😀 KTM's R&D team, led by Robert Stadlbauer, played a crucial role in connecting various departments to develop the 990 RC R.
• 😀 Product management's focus is on creating bikes tailored to the customer’s needs, ensuring the 990 RC R meets the demands of different riders.
• 😀 The KTM 990 RC R is part of a new era for SuperSport bikes, targeting a market niche for riders who need a bike that works on both track and street.
• 😀 The homologation team ensures the bike meets global regulations, including strict noise standards, using in-house testing to achieve compliance.
• 😀 The 990 RC R’s engine is praised for its exceptional torque and power delivery, making it versatile for both track and street use.
• 😀 The stakeholder ride, involving test riders and management, was a pivotal moment to assess the bike's performance on both track and street.
• 😀 Ergonomics and riding position were key focus areas in the 990 RC R design, with a new fuel tank designed to support the rider during aggressive cornering.
• 😀 KTM's collaboration with Brembo led to the development of the Hypure brake system, offering superior braking performance, even in extreme conditions.
• 😀 The 990 RC R introduces a new headlight design and integrated winglets, which enhance aerodynamics and improve downforce for better stability.
• 😀 The final production version of the 990 RC R will be launched in early 2025, available in both street-legal and track-only versions, marking a significant step forward in KTM's SuperSport offerings.

Q & A

What is the core philosophy behind the KTM 990 RC R project?

The core philosophy behind the KTM 990 RC R project is to create a 'ready to race' bike that does not compromise between street and track performance. KTM aims to deliver a motorcycle that is fully optimized for both on-track and street use without having to adjust the bike for the customer.

How did the KTM 990 RC R project begin?

The KTM 990 RC R project started as an ambitious plan within KTM's Research & Development department. Initially, a 'Frankenstein model' was created, combining various parts to test their compatibility. This idea evolved into the final product, progressing through multiple prototypes (P0, P1, P2, P3) until it was ready for production.

What role does Robert Stadlbauer play in the development of the 990 RC R?

Robert Stadlbauer is the project leader for naked and sport bikes at KTM. His role involves connecting different departments involved in the development of the bike, ensuring the product aligns with customer needs and the company's goals, from design and R&D to production and customer service.

What was the significance of the 'stakeholder ride' phase in the KTM 990 RC R development?

The 'stakeholder ride' phase was crucial for evaluating the KTM 990 RC R, where top management and lead test riders provided feedback after testing the bike on both the track and the street. This feedback was used to assess the bike's performance and identify any final adjustments before moving toward production.

What sets the KTM 990 RC R apart from other SuperSport bikes in terms of ergonomics?

The KTM 990 RC R stands out due to its well-balanced ergonomics and riding position. Its design allows riders of different sizes (tall or short) to feel integrated into the bike. This is achieved through precise adjustments in the fuel tank shape and ergonomic contact points, making the bike more comfortable and reducing rider fatigue.

How does the fuel tank design on the KTM 990 RC R enhance the riding experience?

The KTM 990 RC R features a uniquely designed fuel tank with six ergo contact points, providing support during the ride, especially in corners. This design improves comfort and control, allowing riders to feel more connected to the bike, particularly on long rides or during aggressive cornering.

What improvements have been made to the braking system of the KTM 990 RC R?

The KTM 990 RC R is equipped with a new Hypure brake system developed in collaboration with Brembo. Compared to the previous Stylema system, the Hypure system offers enhanced braking performance and a more refined feel, with optimal pressure distribution across the brake lever for improved control and efficiency.

What role did wind tunnel testing play in the development of the KTM 990 RC R?

Wind tunnel testing was crucial in developing the bike's winglets. By testing different shapes in the wind tunnel, KTM's R&D team was able to find the optimal design that provided the best downforce, which ultimately improved the riding experience, especially at high speeds and during cornering.

What is the expected production timeline for the KTM 990 RC R?

The KTM 990 RC R is set to begin production in early 2025, with two versions: one homologated for street use and another focused solely on track use, without street homologation.

How does the KTM 990 RC R cater to both track and street riders?

The KTM 990 RC R is designed to cater to both track and street riders by offering a range of configurations and features that meet the needs of each rider. Whether the goal is to ride on the track or enjoy mountain roads, the bike provides tailored solutions to deliver performance and comfort in both environments.