56bhp KTM RC 450 Launched in China

KTM has launched the new RC 450 in China, adding to the brand’s supersport lineup. Notably, this model is expected to remain exclusive to China, with no plans for a global rollout.

At its core, the KTM RC 450 is built on the CFMoto 450SR S. It shares the same 449cc, twin-cylinder engine, but KTM has pushed it further, extracting 56bhp and a peak torque of 39Nm. The liquid-cooled motor is paired with a six-speed gearbox and benefits from a slip-assist clutch.

The RC 450 highlights KTM’s quintessential sporty styling, drawing inspiration from the KTM 990RC R. A sharp LED projector headlamp flanked by LED DRLs gives it a futuristic edge, while a single-sided swingarm and a composite subframe add a premium feel. Weighing in at just 168kg, the RC 450 is 3 kg lighter than the CFMoto 450SR S. The cycle parts are top-notch, too. It sports fully adjustable WP Apex USD forks up front, and a rebound and preload-adjustable WP Apex monoshock at the rear.

Despite the impressive package, the RC 450 won’t be launched in India, as KTM has no partnership with CFMoto in India or globally beyond China. Instead, KTM India is hard at work developing an all-new twin-cylinder, sub-500cc engine with Bajaj Auto. This new engine is likely to come to the market towards the end of next year in the Duke. There’s a strong possibility that KTM could also plonk this new engine in the RC lineup, which is expected to debut around late 2028.