The highly anticipated 2026 KTM RC450 has leaked online ahead of its global debut, and the images have created quite a buzz among bike enthusiasts. motormitra.in What makes this leak even more surprising is the confirmation that the motorcycle will use a Chinese-manufactured 2-cylinder engine, making it one of the most significant updates in KTM’s middleweight sportbike lineup.

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KTM has been working closely with its long-time Chinese partner CFMoto, and the leaked information suggests that the new KTM RC450 will rely heavily on this collaboration. The move is expected to help KTM reduce production costs while expanding its performance motorcycle portfolio. times.motormitra.in
(Reference: KTM partnership details on official KTM AG announcements)

While official specifications remain under wraps, the leaked details paint a very clear picture of what could be KTM’s next big global model. motormitra.in

A Brand-New 450cc Parallel Twin Engine from China

The biggest highlight of the leak is the introduction of a 450cc parallel-twin engine, developed and manufactured in China. Auto.MotorMitra  This marks a shift away from KTM’s traditional single-cylinder platform in the 390/RC series, pushing the performance envelope much higher.

Also Read:- KTM Recalls 390 Duke, Adventure, Enduro R & SMC R Due To Engine Stalling Issue

Leaked internal documents suggest that the new engine could produce around 55–60 bhp, putting it between the current KTM RC390 and the more powerful Yamaha R7. times.motormitra.in If accurate, the KTM RC450 could become one of the best power-to-weight sportbikes in the sub-500cc category.

A twin-cylinder setup also means:

• Smoother power delivery
• Better high-speed cruising
• Sharper performance on track
• More exciting exhaust note

The Chinese-built engine is expected to be co-developed with KTM engineers to meet global quality and emissions standards.
(Reference: Emission and engine testing norms — Government of India MoRTH: https://morth.nic.in)

New TFT Display & Updated Electronics

The leak also confirms a new full-color TFT screen, similar to the one seen on KTM’s bigger motorcycles. motormitra.in The new interface is expected to offer:

• Bluetooth connectivity
• Ride modes
• ABS/traction control settings
• Turn-by-turn navigation
• Telemetry-style ride stats

KTM has been investing heavily in tech upgrades across its lineup, and the KTM RC450 will likely be one of the most feature-packed motorcycles in its class. times.motormitra.in

Positioning: Between RC390 & 790 Duke?

The KTM RC450 fills a very interesting gap in KTM’s lineup. The 390 is a strong performer but still a single-cylinder motorcycle, while the 790/890 Duke is a much bigger step up in terms of performance and pricing.

With the RC450, KTM is targeting riders who want:

• More power than RC390
• A twin-cylinder feel
• Better track performance
• Premium features
  Without jumping into the high-performance, high-cost middleweight category. Auto.MotorMitra 

Also Read:- TVS Apache RTX 300 vs KTM 250 – Full Comparison | 2025

Comparison Table – KTM RC450 vs Rivals

Feature / Spec	2026 KTM RC450 (Leaked)	KTM RC390	Yamaha R7
Engine	450cc Parallel Twin	373cc Single	689cc Parallel Twin times.motormitra.in
Power (est.)	55–60 bhp	43.5 bhp	72.4 bhp
Key Highlight	New Chinese-made twin-cylinder	Sharp handling, lightweight Auto.MotorMitra	Mid-weight supersport
Tech	New TFT, Ride Modes, TC	TFT, ABS	IMU-based electronics
Positioning	Between RC390 & R7 motormitra.in	Entry performance	Premium track bike

Will KTM Bring the RC450 to India?

While KTM has not officially confirmed the model for India, the RC200 and RC390 remain extremely popular in the country. Given the strong demand for premium performance bikes, the RC450 has a very high chance of arriving in India as a CKD or CBU model.

However, being a twin-cylinder motorcycle, pricing will be significantly higher than the RC390. Enthusiasts expect the 2026 RC450 to fall somewhere between ₹4 lakh – ₹5.5 lakh (ex-showroom) if KTM decides on local assembly. times.motormitra.in

The leaked information shows that the 2026 KTM RC450 could become one of the most exciting lightweight sportbikes in the market. With a new twin-cylinder Chinese-made engine, aggressive design, improved electronics, and KTM’s racing DNA, the motorcycle is shaping up to be a major upgrade over the RC390. Auto.MotorMitra 

The only major surprise is KTM’s decision to rely on a Chinese-built engine — but global partnerships in motorcycle manufacturing are becoming increasingly common, and this move could allow KTM to offer higher performance without skyrocketing costs. motormitra.in

All eyes are now on KTM’s official announcement, expected sometime in 2025-26

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