New KTM 450 RC supersport confirmed ahead of 2028 debut

KTM’s supersport range, which currently houses the 2026 990 RC R Track and 990 RC R models, looks set to grow in 2028.

The Austrian manufacturer used the EICMA show in Milan, Italy, to reveal the surprising 450 RC that’s set for production in late 2027.

KTM says the bike’s full technical specs and availability details will be revealed closer to its official launch. That being said, there are some bits of information that have been made available, including its engine which is a parallel-twin unit.

The KTM 450 RC also boasts rider technology “usually found higher up the KTM Street range”, according to the company.

Cornering ABS, MTC Dual-channel ABS with Road and Supermoto modes, and multiple Ride Modes will all be available. 

Riders will be able to access these via a five-inch TFT dashboard, while USB-A and USB-C charging ports complete the tech package.

The 450 RC will feature adjustable WP APEX suspension, including 43mm USD forks with compression and rebound adjustment.

At the rear is a preload and rebound adjustable WP APEX shock that’s mounted to a single-sided swingarm.

Braking is handled via a 320mm front disc with a four-piston radial WP caliper, while a lightweight single-disc setup is found at the rear. The new supersport machine runs on sporty Pirelli Diablo Rosso 4 tyres designed with road use in mind.

The low seat position points to an aggressive riding position, while it’s clear that the bike’s bodywork has been influenced by the bigger 990 RC R.

A central headlight is positioned slightly above the bike’s subtle winglets, while the footpegs are non-adjustable.

In terms of rivals, the 450 RC is expected to compete against the likes of Aprilia’s RS457, the new BMW F450 RR, and Honda’s CBR500R.

There are elements of the new bike that appear to have been borrowed from the CFMOTO 450SR S, including the trellis frame and the swingarm’s design.

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