KTM 1190 RC8 R 2015 — Specifications

Subtle improvements appeared on the orange hypersport in 2013: refined electronic management and a more efficient anti-dribble clutch. It patiently awaits its successor without diminishing in merit, its chassis being one of the most effective of the moment. In 2011, the RC-8R had gained 5 horsepower and half a mkg of torque, along with more aggressive color schemes. The KTM RC8 R emerged from the gym with new arguments to put forward. It must be said that its title as 2010 German SBK champion had given it new desires.

That year, Katoche delved back into the heart of the 1190 cm3 to extract more watts. A new crankshaft took its place, along with dual ignition. Double advantage: the twin is not only more powerful but also more economical and less polluting. The suspension is completely revised, with increased comfort for the rider and more effectiveness on the track. Gear selection has also been improved, and a new LED headlight offers a more striking look to the beast. The price of the RC8-R has fallen considerably. KTM doesn't seem to be offering a lower quality machine, on the contrary. But we won't start complaining that a bike is less expensive, especially since this one had melted 4,000 euros in the operation. Enough to pay for tires and fairings for the entire season. It is only at the level of the wheels that it is a little worrying - the cast aluminum rims are heavier, which explains in part the 3 kilo weight gain of the Katoche.

Its chassis was already formidable, allowing for lightning-fast cornering speeds. With this extra power, the superbike from Mattighofen was dangerously approaching the 1198 (for Ducati). The Italian regained a significant lead with the 1199 and 1299 Panigale - more technical, more powerful, and much more expensive. Currently, the RC8-R is no longer able to compete with the top of the category. To get back on par, it would need 25 horsepower more and boost electronics (riding modes, traction control, sports ABS, etc...). The advantage is that it is one of the last hypersports to be ridden in its raw form. It is your senses and your experience that dominate the RC8-R, not the electronic chips.

M.B - Photos constructeur, Freeman G. - Mitterbauer H.