EICMA 2008: KTM intoduces RC8 R, Supermoto T and R, 990 Adventure R
Click above for more shots of the 2009 KTM RC8 R
KTM is set to go racing next year with its RC8 R superbike, which is hot off the presses from the EICMA show in Milan. Featuring a V-Twin engine that displaces 1195cc's (that's almost the maximum size allowed for racing against liter-class fours), the liquid cooled engine pumps out 165 horsepower or 180 with the optional race exhaust. We'd expect a significant chunk of torque from the 75-degree twin cylinder as well, which the machine will rely on as it goes up against the stratospheric revvers from Japan.
Styling-wise, we're totally smitten with its angular bodywork and flat black paint colors. Combined with the orange frame and matte white highlights, the Austrian firm offers a distinctive look compared to the sensual Ducatis and Aprilias, swoopy bikes from the Big Four Japanese manufacturers and the purposeful BMW. We're not sure what KaTooM will charge for the priviledge of owning an R-model, but those unwilling to pony up the extra dough can still opt for the standard 1148cc RC8.
Also new from KTM is a touring version of its 990cc V-Twin powered Supermoto, which gets a small fairing, more comfortable ergos and some luggage. There's also an R model of the Supermoto for those who wish to drag a foot instead of a knee as on the RC8. The Supermoto R goes the exactly opposite direction from the T by losing weight and upping the suspension and braking bits. Lastly, there's a new 990 Adventure R model that loses the ABS, adds 9 horses and gets better suspension and brakes. All the bikes get cool new looks, so be sure to click past the break for the rest of the galleries.
Gallery: KTM RC8 R
[Source: KTM]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Eddy Alvarez 10:11AM (11/06/2008)
so am I the only one whose autoblog/engadget RSS feeds haven't been working for going on 3 days or so?
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Dave 10:54AM (11/06/2008)
I will take the 990 Adventurer. Silver please.
Amien 10:27AM (11/06/2008)
HAWT!
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Nellydesign 10:48AM (11/06/2008)
Those aren't "matte white headlights" they are decals to either side of the vertically oriented headlight in the center.
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Jeremy Korzeniewski 11:43AM (11/06/2008)
It says "matte white highlights" not headlights.
I love this color combination.
JK
LeMuRfArT 12:10PM (11/06/2008)
i love the RC8 i think i need to get one to put next to my 1098. v-twin power!
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2004m3driver 1:41PM (11/06/2008)
Damn I want that so I can put a twin next to my triple and 4. Finding a rotary motorcycle is the hard part.
MikeInNC 1:32PM (11/06/2008)
Supermoto R please! Love the RC8 too!
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RLQ 3:47AM (11/07/2008)
Got to love KTM!!!
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RMc 6:43PM (11/06/2008)
I'll take the Supermoto T. Damn that's the perfect mix.
If only more manufacturers started making 17in dual sport tires for soft roading/dirt touring.
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Quan 7:33PM (11/06/2008)
Man that RC8 is sexy. It'd be difficult to pick between that, the 1098, and the Aprilia.
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rakQ 7:49PM (11/06/2008)
Love the RC8 especially the angled tail. I thought that under-engine exhaust was patented by Buell/Harley, has that expired?
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Christoph 5:02PM (11/07/2008)
test
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