Next-Gen KTM RC 390 Launching In 2027, Could Go Twin-Cylinder This Time

KTM has confirmed that the next-generation RC range is scheduled for a global update in 2027, and early indications suggest the biggest change yet for the faired sportbike lineup. While Bajaj Auto has stopped short of revealing technical details, the long development timeline strongly hints that the next KTM RC 390 could move from its long-running single-cylinder setup to an all-new twin-cylinder platform.

According to reports, the upcoming RC has already reached the design sketch stage, with new LED headlights and aerodynamic winglets among the visual changes being considered. These additions are expected to give the motorcycle a sharper, more track-focused appearance inspired by KTM's larger supersport machines.

The bigger talking point, however, is what may sit underneath the fairing. KTM and Bajaj are understood to be jointly developing a new parallel-twin engine platform in the sub-500cc segment, which could eventually replace the existing 390 architecture across the Duke, Adventure and RC lineup. If introduced on the next RC, the new motor would bring smoother power delivery, better refinement, improved cruising ability and stronger mid-range performance compared to the current single-cylinder engine.

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Such a move would also help KTM position the future RC more competitively against motorcycles like the Aprilia RS 457, Yamaha R3 and Kawasaki Ninja 400, all of which offer twin-cylinder setups. For enthusiasts upgrading from smaller capacity machines, the refinement and performance leap could be significant.

Until the all-new version arrives, the current RC 390 will continue on sale globally, retaining its familiar 373cc single-cylinder platform. Interestingly, it remains the only KTM model still using the older 373cc engine, while the latest Duke and Adventure models have already transitioned to the newer 398cc unit.

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Another important factor shaping KTM's future lineup is India's evolving GST structure, which heavily favours motorcycles under 350cc. This is expected to lead to a dual-platform strategy, with a new sub-350cc range catering to affordability, while the next-gen RC with a larger twin-cylinder engine sits above it as a more premium performance offering.

With 2027 still some time away, KTM clearly appears to be planning a major transformation for the RC badge-one that could finally give the brand a more refined and globally scalable supersport platform.