KTM 1190 RC8 - RC8 R

RC8 R

2010

The RC8 R was delivered to the United States in 2010 as a 2011 model with more track-oriented features than the standard RC8. Engine displacement increased to 1,195 cc (72.9 cu in) with a higher compression ratio of 13.5:1. In addition, titanium intake valves and a low-friction DLC treatment on its camshafts’ finger followers help the engine produce 170 hp at 10,250RPM and 90.7 ft-lbs of torque at 8,000RPM. The RC8 R's WP suspension includes a 43mm inverted fork at the front end, with a titanium-aluminum-nitride coating on its sliders. A high-end shock supports the bike’s rear, and its piston rod is also finished with the titanium-aluminum-nitride low-stiction coating. The fork has three modes of adjustment (compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload), while the shock separates the compression damping into high and low speed circuits and has ride-height adjustability. An adjustable steering damper completes the suspension. The RC8 R offers many adjustments not found on other superbikes. In addition to the suspension, the rider can adjust many other parts on the bike including the front brake lever, the rear brake pedal, the clutch lever, the handlebars, the shifter, the footpegs, and the seat/subframe height. Essentially, the adjustable options allow the RC8 R to accommodate riders of various sizes.

2011

This model year revealed significant internal improvements based on rider reviews and in-house testing. The KTM engineers included a heavier crankshaft and flywheel aimed at reducing the buzzy nature of the previous RC8R and to emphasize low-end torque. Throttle butterflies were remapped to reduce the amount of opening under small throttle inputs for much smoother transitions and to address the "snatchy throttle" complaints prevalent in the earlier models. The new "Twin Spark" cylinder head uses two spark plugs in each cylinder, below 7000 rpm only one of the two fire, while above 7K both are used for optimum burning and reduced detonation which also allows for a re-tuned ECU that has revamped cam timing and the 52mm throttle bodies. Also new with this model are cast aluminum Marchesini wheels and strategic front and rear suspension updates.