KTM’s Momentum Hits Snag With Delayed Production

After announcing in July that all of its Austrian production lines were back online, KTM signaled a notable rebound from months of layoffs and factory shutdowns. Production kicked off with the company’s off-road segment as well as the new LC4 platform models—headlined by the next-generation 690 Enduro R and SMC R. A no-break summer schedule and the return of over 1,000 employees underscored KTM’s push to restore momentum across its KTM, Husqvarna, and GASGAS brands.

But now, that momentum is being tested. KTM has announced that several of its anticipated Street and Adventure models—unveiled with fanfare at EICMA—will be delayed. Initially intended for model year 2025, the 990 RC R, 1390 Super Adventure S, S EVO, and R won’t begin production until October 2025, while the 990 Duke R will follow in November. Most notably, the 1390 Super Duke GT has been pushed even further, with production delayed until 2027. As a result, each of these models will transition to the following model year designation.

The start of the main production period for the following models is listed below:

• KTM 990 RC R – OCTOBER 2025

• KTM 1390 SUPER ADVENTURE S – OCTOBER 2025

• KTM 1390 SUPER ADVENTURE S EVO – OCTOBER 2025

• KTM 1390 SUPER ADVENTURE R – OCTOBER 2025

• KTM 990 DUKE R – NOVEMBER 2025

• KTM 1390 SUPER DUKE GT – PRODUCTION DELAYED TO 2027

KTM CEO Gottfried Neumeister attributed the delay to a focus on “complete readiness,” promising that the new models will deliver breakthrough performance and technology. To further enhance customer confidence, KTM is offering a complimentary 4-Year Premium Manufacturer’s Warranty on all new 2023, 2024, 2025 and 2026 LC8 and LC8c Street and Adventure models. This extended warranty adds two additional years of coverage to the standard 2-year Manufacturer’s Warranty.

Still, the delay raises questions about KTM’s rollout strategy and whether its ambitious announcements are outpacing its production reality. For riders who’ve been tracking these models since their debut, the wait just got longer—and the expectations even higher.