KTM RC8
Designer Gerald Kiska’s sharp, paper-dartlike shapes gave the RC8 a distinctive look that was instantly recognizable as a KTM. That was especially true in the Austrian firm’s traditional orange.
KTM was firmly established as one of motorcycling’s most dynamic and fastest- growing firms when, five years after entering the large-capacity market with the Adventure 950, the Austrian marque attacked the super-sports sector with the RC8. Like the dual- purpose Adventure, it was powered by an eight-valve, liquid-cooled V-twin engine with cylinders at 75 degrees. But the angular RC8 was a very different machine that shared few parts with its predecessors.
The engine combined enlarged l I48cc capacity with new cylinder heads, increased compression ratio, revised fuel-injection system and under-slung silencer. The 155bhp motor formed a stressed member of the chassis, which was based on a frame of chrome-molybdenum steel tubes. Suspension was by WP. brakes from Brembo and the RC8 featured a sophisticated digital instrument panel plus a degree of adjustability unmatched by its rivals. Handlebars, footrests and seat height could all be modified to suit the rider.For a first effort the RC8 was a revelation.
Its powerful, flexible V-twin engine was matched by a superbly sweet-handling and controllable chassis. For such an aggressive-looking bike it was also deceptively comfortable, though marred slightly by vibration at some engine speeds and by a notchy gearchange. Those few' rough edges did not prevent the RC8 from being a gloriously fast and capable bike with a unique style and character. KTM had a genuine super-sports contender at last.
The RC8’s blend of light weight, rigid steel frame and taut suspension gave superbly precise and neutral handling. Its forward weight bias and long swingarm helped keep the front wheel down under acceleration - which was useful given the motor's abundant torque.
Slots in the fairing sides added visual impact and helped allow cooling air to the II48cc V-twin engine, which acted as a stressed member of the chassis. The exhaust silencer was short and located under the motor, which was ideal for weight distribution.
Specification KTM RC8 (2008)
- Engine Liquid-cooled dohc eight-valve 75-degree V-twin
- Capacity 1148cc (103 x 69mm)
- Maximum power 155bhp @ 9000rpm
- Transmission Six-speed, chain final drive
- Frame Tubular steel ladder
- Suspension Telescopic front; monoshock rear
- Brakes twin discs front; disc rear
- Weight 4141b (188kg) wet
- Top speed 170mph (274km/h)
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