Autoblog

Who said the KTM X-Bow isn't good in snow?

Jeff Sabatini — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 10:01:00 EST

As we head towards the second half of February without having had a real winter here in the Midwest, we'll admit to being ticked off. Those Blizzaks we bought for our long-term Mini Countryman? We haven't had much chance to put them to use. Nor have we had any occasion to enjoy the singular pleasure of driving a massively overpowered sports car on an icy road, enjoying every fishtail, opposite-lock correction and powerslide, all while traveling under the legal speed limit, of course.

So what do we do to console ourselves? Watch videos on YouTube like this one, featuring the KTM X-Bow doing a little ice racing with an accompanying motorcycle/quad tandem. We love that this X-Bow's owner is out getting down and dirty in the cold - and that he's not willing to pull his buddies on a tube behind his race car.

Click past the jump to watch the video.

Continue reading Who said the KTM X-Bow isn't good in snow?

Who said the KTM X-Bow isn't good in snow? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 12 Feb 2012 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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KTM rider Rok Bagoroš stunts in ghost factory

Zach Bowman — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Performance, Etc., Videos, Motorcycle, Specialty, Racing

We have a sizable soft spot for the KTM Duke 125. The small-displacement machine is perfect for back-road flinging and in-town commuting. Unfortunately, KTM has decided the wide-open spaces of America aren't fit for the lightweight street machine. That leaves us longingly watching YouTube videos of the Duke 125 in action. KTM has just released a new clip featuring stunt rider Rok Bagoroš at work on the single-cylinder bike. Bagoroš pointed the Duke 125 toward an aging metal foundry and set to work unleashing his own brand of havoc on the alleyways and innards of the factory.

There's no denying the rider's skill or the bike's maneuverability, but we were hoping for a few more breathtaking stunts. Maybe we've just been spoiled by the rash of awesome riding videos we've seen surface lately. Either way, it's a good opportunity to see the small-displacement glory that is the Duke 125, so hit the jump to check out the clip for yourself.

Continue reading KTM rider Rok Bagoroš stunts in ghost factory

KTM rider Rok Bagoroš stunts in ghost factory originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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KTM X-Bow gets a roof, thinks it's a Stratos [w/videos]

Noah Joseph — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 12:30:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance

If you miss the classic wedge shape of the Lancia Stratos, there are a few things you can do about it. You could buy yourself a vintage example, which will set you back a pretty penny. Or you could have Pininfarina build you one based on a Ferrari F430, and run the risk of legal action from Maranello. Or you could buy a KTM X-Bow and bring it to the creative folks at Montenergy.

The Italian carrozzeria has developed a body kit for the Dallara-built carbon-fiber chassis called the Stratosferica that gives it the look of the Stratos with the handling of the Austrian motorbike company's four-wheeled track monster. The conversion will set you back 12,000 euros (around $17,300 USD), but a simpler canopy addition called the Monte Carlo is also available and will take you most of the way there for less cash.

An engine upgrade is also available to boost the Audi-sourced TFSI four from 237 horsepower up to 310, which just sweetens the deal to a downright mouthwatering degree. Check it out in our galleries, or watch the pair of rudimentary video clips after the jump.

Gallery: KTM X-Bow Stratosferica

Gallery: KTM X-Bow Monte Carlo by Montenergy

Continue reading KTM X-Bow gets a roof, thinks it's a Stratos [w/videos]

KTM X-Bow gets a roof, thinks it's a Stratos [w/videos] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Aug 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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KTM thinks conceptually with new plastic-bodied electric three wheeler

Jeff Glucker — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Motorcycle, Electric

Austrian-based KTM is best known for producing tough two-wheelers built to handle all manner of off-road conditions. To four-wheeled fans, it's also known for the track-devouring X-Bow. Now, a new concept vehicle shows that KTM can view the world through green-tinted glasses. The plastic-bodied KTM E3W is a three-wheeled electric vehicle fit to ferry two passengers for up to 100 kilometers (62 miles).

Plastic helps keep the weight of the E3W down to 500 kilograms (1,102 pounds), which means the 15kW motor and lithium-ion battery should have no problem shuttling this KTM around town. For now, the E32 remains a concept, but KTM hopes to bring a production version to markets by 2013. Early estimates on the price tag hover between $7,000 and $11,000.

KTM thinks conceptually with new plastic-bodied electric three wheeler originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Aug 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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KTM X-Bow will start at $88,500 in the U.S.

Aaron Richardson — Fri, 04 Mar 2011 10:32:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Specialty

KTM X-Bow R - Click above for high-res image gallery

The KTM X-Bow is nearing its stateside launch as a ~~special-interest vehicle~~ kit car, and pricing for the track-ready toy has just been announced. For the basic "Street" model, expect to lay down a whopping $88,500 greenbacks.

If the lowest-end X-Bow is too soft for you, be prepared to shell out quite a bit of cash for the upgrades. The Clubsport version will command $103,500, the Superlight will set you back $134,500 and the top-of-the-line GT4 will carry a very hefty $139,000 sticker. In case you were wondering, that's Porsche 911 GT3 RS money. That price does not include the Audi engine and transaxle, which will cost buyers an extra $7,900 since the X-Bow can't be sold as a complete car in the United States.

By contrast, the Ariel Atom starts at $49,980 here in the U.S., again without any associated go-bits. Of course, that's for the most-basic 200-horsepower model, so it may be a little unfair to compare the X-Bow directly with the Atom. If you go for the Ariel Atom V8 when that makes its Stateside debut, look at plopping down around $160,000. Follow the jump for the full details in KTM's press release.

Gallery: 2011 KTM X-Bow R

[Source: KTM]

Continue reading KTM X-Bow will start at $88,500 in the U.S.

KTM X-Bow will start at $88,500 in the U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Mar 2011 10:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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KTM X-Bow finally on sale in North America

Aaron Richardson — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Europe, Audi, Racing

KTM X-Bow - Click above for high-res image gallery

Long ago, we told you that the KTM X-Bow was coming to the United States in street-legal form. Now, the magic moment is upon us - the Audi-powered, carbon fiber X-Bow is available now as a special construction vehicle kit car through British Racing Group, LLC.

The X-Bow is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged Audi four-cylinder with direct injection, good for 240 horsepower. While 240 hp isn't exactly astronomical by anyone's standards, the X-Bow's Formula 1-style carbon fiber monocoque chassis means it'll shoot to 60 miles per hour in less than four seconds. This lightweight chassis also helps the X-Bow pull 1.5g on a skidpad if you're running track tires. When you finally manage to terrify yourself and your passenger, as you inevitably will, huge Brembo brakes will bring you to a halt from 60 mph in just 99 feet.

To get the car legal for stateside use, KTM has to import the X-Bow as a kit car, which means supplying the Audi powerplant is up to you. To get your hands on one, contact British Racing Group, where you'll get an estimated purchase price proposal from one of the customer relations specialists.

Gallery: KTM X-Bow

[Sources: British Racing Group via Lotus Talk]

KTM X-Bow finally on sale in North America originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 24 Feb 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dallara to build its own carbon fiber sports car?

Noah Joseph — Sat, 19 Feb 2011 16:01:00 EST

Italian chassis manufacturer Dallara has built countless racing cars for teams in innumerable racing series, and with the KTM X-Bow on the road and the Alfa Romeo 4C GTA reportedly under development, Dallara has done likewise for automakers. New rumors suggest that Dallara is ready to move beyond helping other outfits develop cars, however.

Word is, Dallara is planning a two-seat sports car to be sold under its own name that's built on architecture similar to what it developed for the X-Bow and Alfa 4C. With carbon-fiber construction and a low curb weight, it would be targeted at the Lotus Elise but come closer in spirit to the original Lotus Seven. In other words, Lotus had better pay attention.

[Source: Autoblog Spanish]

Dallara to build its own carbon fiber sports car? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 19 Feb 2011 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2011 KTM 1190 RC8 R gets cheaper, more desirable

Zach Bowman — Tue, 15 Feb 2011 18:58:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Motorcycle

2011 KTM 1190 RC8 R - Click above for high-res image gallery

KTM has announced pricing for the company's absurdly sinister 2011 1190 RC8 R, and there's plenty to get excited about. The bike will now go for a full $3,500 cheaper than last year's model, which means that KTM has saddled the machine with an MSRP of $16,499. That number puts the 1190 RC8 R at the same price point as the more mortal 1190 RC8 (non-R), which KTM killed off for this year.

We're guessing that if you laid down cash for either a 2010 1190 RC8 or an 1190 RC8 R, you're kicking yourself as hard as your leg can swing at the moment.

The 2011 1190 RC8 R packs 172 horsepower, thanks in part to its dual-spark ignition system that simultaneously increases power and fuel economy (up to 12 percent compared to the old design), and KTM says that the company's engineers threw in a heavier crank and flywheel to provide smoother acceleration. A minty-fresh ECU, new 52-mm throttle body and idle speed control cam are all part of the mix, too.

Suspension wise, the 2011 1190 RC8 R wears a larger air chamber in the front forks and the rear spring rate has been adjusted for a more comfortable ride. There's even a new set of shifter controls to completely seal the deal. How's that for more bang for your buck?

KTM is also offering a full-race version called the 1190 RC8 R Race Spec that foregoes a headlight, tail light and turn signals in favor of hardcore hardware like a full-titanium exhaust and a dizzying 180 horsepower from the same V-Twin. Expect to shell out $19,999 for the pleasure of twisting the throttle on that titan.

Gallery: 2011 KTM 1190 RC8 R

Gallery: 2011 KTM 1190 RC8 R Race Spec

[Source: Asphalt & Rubber]

2011 KTM 1190 RC8 R gets cheaper, more desirable originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: Dallara to build X-Bow-based Alfa Romeo 4C GTA

Noah Joseph — Fri, 04 Feb 2011 09:01:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Alfa Romeo

The departure of the 8C Competizione has left rather large shoes to fill at Alfa Romeo. And stylish ones at that. Last week, we brought you initial reports that a new 4C GTA was being developed to take its place, and now a whole mess of details have emerged.

With the current Alfa line-up consisting entirely of front-engined, front-drive models, the 4C is to go with a mid/rear-engined, rear-drive setup. Its basis: the KTM X-Bow. Like the Austrian track toy, the 4C is to be developed by Dallara, the race car constructor also headquartered in northern Italy. Alfa's sister brand, Abarth, has long been rumored to get an X-Bow-based roadster, but now it appears to be going to Alfa instead.

In its carbon/aluminum chassis is tipped to sit a 1.8-liter, turbocharged, direct-injection four-cylinder engine from Alfa's existing range, giving the lightweight roadster a power-to-weight ratio expected to best the Porsche Cayman S. Styling is reportedly being carried out by Alfa's own Centro Stile, and not by Pininfarina as some have reported.

Production is rumored to come in around 20,000-25,000 units annually over the course of five years, with a price tag in the 40,000 euro (about $55,000) range - considerably more accessible than the 8C. Although the prototype was targeted for unveiling at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show, reported setbacks could force us to wait a little longer.

[Source: Automotive News Europe - subs. req'd]

Report: Dallara to build X-Bow-based Alfa Romeo 4C GTA originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Feb 2011 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Abarth to go it alone on mid-engine roadster?

Noah Joseph — Sun, 31 Oct 2010 19:02:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Europe, Lotus, Fiat, Rumormill, MISC

Abarth SS Concept by IED - Click above for high-res image gallery

Reports of Abarth getting its own sports car have been surfacing pretty much since Fiat relaunched the brand. They seem to have intensified recently, with reports alternately suggesting that the Scorpion marque could partner with either Lotus or KTM on the development of a mid-engine roadster. The latest scuttlebutt, however, indicates that Abarth could go it alone on the new model.

The issue with KTM is reportedly that its carbon-fiber X-Bow, upon which the Abarth roadster could be based, is too expensive for the low price point Fiat seeks. The hesitance to work with Lotus, however, may be more personal. Lotus CEO Danny Bahar defected there from Ferrari, and took a number of personnel from both Maranello and Maserati with him.

As a result, Abarth could build a Lotus Elise rival from the ground up, powered by the latest-generation MultiAir engine mated to the company's new dual-clutch gearbox. Such a move would, however, seem at odds with Sergio Marchionne's push to integrate products and platforms across Fiat and Chrysler brands. But if a mid-engine Dodge roadster came out of it as well, you wouldn't find us complaining.

Gallery: Abarth SS Concept by IED

[Source: PistonHeads]

Abarth to go it alone on mid-engine roadster? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 31 Oct 2010 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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KTM 990 Adventure Dakar set to bow at EICMA

Zach Bowman — Thu, 28 Oct 2010 09:01:00 EST

Filed under: Motorcycle

KTM 990 Adventure Dakar - Click above to enlarge

KTM has decided to commemorate the company's outright domination of the infamous Paris-Dakar race with a new special edition bike. Called the Adventure 990 Dakar, the moto looks to be little more than a paint and graphics package. Along with the love-it-or-leave-it blue-and-orange livery, the KTM will also wear engine protection bars should you decide to put the 990 through its paces in your own cross-desert bash. Otherwise, the engine, suspension and the like all look to be much the same as the standard iteration of the bike (not necessarily a bad thing, for what it's worth...), though we're promised more specifics soon.

Interestingly enough, the 990 isn't the actual machine that KTM campaigns in Paris-Dakar, er Argentina-Chile, these days. Most of its recent wins were accomplished with mounts under 700cc, and with the new 450cc engine regulation in place, word has it the Austrian bike manufacturer is set to pull the sheets off a new 450 Rally. Both that bike and the Adventure 990 Dakar are slated for an unveil at EICMA next week. Keep your eyes peeled for more information.

[Sources: Motorbiker, Hell For Leather]

KTM 990 Adventure Dakar set to bow at EICMA originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Oct 2010 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: KTM X-Bow will underpin mid-engine Abarth

Zach Bowman — Tue, 12 Oct 2010 11:28:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Europe, Fiat, Rumormill

2011 KTM X-Bow R - Click above for high-res image gallery

It looks like the fiends at Abarth and KTM are looking to shack up. Road & Track is reporting that the two speed-bent names are joining forces for the creation of the much-rumored mid-engine two-seater from Abarth. At the heart of the program will the chassis from the KTM X-Bow, though in place of the turbo Volkswagen 2.0-liter, Fiat plans to drop in its own MultiAir 1.8-liter turbo mill. That means that the whole kit and caboodle will scoot down the road with somewhere between 180 and 190 horsepower.

This new rumor runs contrary to the previous murmurings that had Abarth courting Lotus for the use of the Elise chassis. According to Road & Track, those bones were just a little too expensive for Abarth to justify, so the factory tuners began to look elsewhere. Supposedly, we can expect the Italian machine to be a low-volume creation, with annual sales projected to hit no more than 2,000 units. Expect the price tag to land around $80,000 when it debuts in 2013. Start saving your pennies, kids.

Gallery: 2011 KTM X-Bow R

[Source: Road & Track]

Report: KTM X-Bow will underpin mid-engine Abarth originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Oct 2010 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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KTM releases full specs on 125 Duke, we swoon

Zach Bowman — Tue, 12 Oct 2010 08:30:00 EST

Filed under: Europe, Motorcycle

2011 KTM 125 Duke - Click above for high-res image gallery

Wondering why we're so infatuated with the new baby street bruiser from KTM? After all, we've already heard that, as of right now, the Austrian manufacturer has no plans to bring the 125 Duke to the Land of the Free, but as you well know, a little bit of interest on the interwebs goes a long way toward crafting future product lineups. In that vein, we're going to continue to salivate all over the new single-cylinder wonder. KTM officially introduced its new 125 at Intermot, and the company dusted off a complete list of specs at the same time.

So what can we expect from four-valve, overhead cam, liquid-cooled 125? A scant 15 horsepower and 8.8 lb-ft of torque help push the bad Duke through city traffic. Before you start scoffing, it pays to remember that this whole contraption hits the scales at a mere 282 pounds.

You want to go faster? Lose some weight.

A six-speed gearbox puts power to the rear wheel, and riders can expect a 31-inch seat height. Interestingly enough, Asphalt & Rubber is reporting that Bajaj, the newest Indian investor in KTM, was the driving force behind the creation of the Duke. Whether or not we'll see similar pushes from the company in the future remains to be seen, but we're really digging rumors of a possible 250cc version of this machine coming to America.

Gallery: 2011 KTM 125 Duke

[Source: Asphalt & Rubber]

KTM releases full specs on 125 Duke, we swoon originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Oct 2010 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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300-hp KTM X-Bow R revealed

Chris Shunk — Mon, 27 Sep 2010 18:40:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance

2011 KTM X-Bow R - Click above for high-res image gallery

The KTM X-Bow may not be the prettiest ride on the track, but looks don't help you win races. With 240 horsepower motivating a mere 1,742 pounds, the X-Bow has plenty of punch to dice through a track with relative ease. And if 240 ponies can help you win at the track or the next stop light, then 300 horsepower ought to be even better. We caught wind of rumors back in July that KTM was prepping just such a beast, with the ability to hit 60 miles per hour in a scant three seconds, and it looks like those rumors were based in fact.

KTM has officially announced that the new X-Bow R is, in fact, the real deal, with a 300 horsepower version of the turbocharged 2.0-liter Audi engine sourced from the S3. The X-Bow R will also sit lower with a lower engine mounting to increase cornering speeds and impress your friends at the same time. The R model will reportedly come in two forms; a "Sport" variant for the street and a "Race" pack for the track.

If you're already one of the 500 existing X-Bow owners, don't worry about your sudden case of horsepower envy. KTM is said to be prepared to offer many of the parts that add up to an R designation through X-Bow PowerParts, giving owners the opportunity to tune their four-wheeled motorcycle to Sport or Race specifications. Additional details and pricing information will be available after the first of the year.

Gallery: 2011 KTM X-Bow R

[Source: CarScoop]

Continue reading 300-hp KTM X-Bow R revealed

300-hp KTM X-Bow R revealed originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Sep 2010 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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KTM Duke 125cc not fit for U.S. consumption [w/video]

Zach Bowman — Fri, 10 Sep 2010 15:32:00 EST

Filed under: Europe, Videos, Motorcycle

KTM Duke 125 - Click above to enlarge

KTM has somewhat unequal helpings of good and bad news for riders salivating over the thought of the company's new 125cc creation. The marketing gurus have finally settled on a name for the contraption, and despite some fears that the Austrian bike-maker would slather the out-played "Avatar" name all over the new commuter, "Duke" - which has been used a number of times already by the Austrian company - was chosen as a fitting moniker. We couldn't be happier. Of course, that elation was short lived when we heard that the company has absolutely zero intention of selling the flingable little bike on our shores.

Heartbreak.

We understand the reasoning behind the move. It's not like 125cc street bikes sell like hotcakes over here. With a dearth of dense city centers and miles upon miles of open highway between most domiciles and their respective work places, American buyers tend to clamor for a little more displacement. That's fine, KTM. Build us a Duke 250cc and we'll call all things square. In the meantime, our cousins across the pond can look forward to hooning the rubber off of the newest Austrian starting in March of 2011. Our envy knows no bounds. Hit the jump for yet another video of the bike's development.

[Source: Asphalt & Rubber]

Continue reading KTM Duke 125cc not fit for U.S. consumption [w/video]

KTM Duke 125cc not fit for U.S. consumption [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Sep 2010 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: KTM teases new 125cc heathen

Zach Bowman — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 17:31:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Etc., Videos, Motorcycle

KTM 125cc teaser - Click above to watch video after the jump

The poor little 125cc bikes of the universe rarely get the love of their larger-displacement siblings. Typically banished to the rider education programs of the world, the one-and-a-quarters are quickly forgotten in favor of bikes with more serious muscle. But 125's have their advantages. For one thing, they're typically a fraction of the cost of larger bikes, and since that tiny engine weighs next to nothing, they're also incredibly flingable contraptions. So when KTM showed off a pair of four-stroke 125cc concepts at last year's EICMA show in Milan, our curiosity was sufficiently piqued.

Now KTM has dropped a teaser video showing development of the production model. The Austrian manufacturer hasn't said word one about whether the bike will be available on American shores once it drops, though we've got our fingers crossed. The wrench-spinning montage of bike-building awesomeness after the jump has only made us nervously eye our checking account in anticipation. We could think of plenty worse ways to get to and from the office than a fuel-sipping moto with plenty of spunk to boot. Hit the jump to have a look for yourself.

[Source: Asphalt & Rubber]

Continue reading Video: KTM teases new 125cc heathen

Video: KTM teases new 125cc heathen originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Aug 2010 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: Abarth Roadster based on KTM X-Bow?

Zach Bowman — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 18:28:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Budget, Performance, Europe, Fiat, Rumormill

Now this is a rumor we can get behind. According to Auto Express, Fiat is looking to take the mid-engine, rear-wheel drive fight to the Lotus Elise with a new Abarth roadster based on - get this - the KTM X-Bow. How's that for mouth watering?

Supposedly the Italian's factory tuning division will snap up a slew of rolling chassis from KTM and drop in its own 1.8-liter turbo four-cylinder good for around 200 horsepower. Throw in some new body work and suddenly you've got a world-class handling machine that's at least somewhat drivable when the weather turns sour.

AE says that according to "senior sources within the company" the car could show up as soon as 2013. That's still an awfully long way off, so chances are this one has about as much of a chance of coming to fruition as a rear-wheel drive Acura. That's a shame, too. We'd love to play around with a low-buck mid-engine Italian.

[Source: Auto Express]

Rumormill: Abarth Roadster based on KTM X-Bow? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Aug 2010 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: KTM planning fresh X-Bow variants

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 13:59:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Specialty

KTM X-Bow - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to reports streaming out of Italy, KTM is set to debut new versions of its X-Bow sportscar. Good news indeed, as the last we heard the Austrian motorcycle manufacturer was putting the brakes on its four-wheeled endeavors in the wake of losses due to the economic downturn.

If you thought 0-60 in under four seconds was plenty quick... well, it is, but KTM will still be upping power from the standard car's 237 horses to something over 300 for the new R model, which should put the X-Bow into the 3.0-second-flat range. With acceleration like that, the only things likely to beat you from stoplight to stoplight are on two wheels, and then only maybe.

If you don't need such mind-bending forces on your body and would rather pamper your posterior a wee bit, KTM is also said to be working on a T model. We'd guess that moniker would stand for Touring, as the machine is said to be equipped with such niceties as an actual windshield. Time for a cross-country road-trip, no?

Gallery: KTM X-Bow

[Source: Autoblog.it via Motor Authority]

Report: KTM planning fresh X-Bow variants originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Jul 2010 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Isle of Man Austrian style: KTM joins the TT for 2010

Devon Brozek — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 18:30:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Performance, Motorcycle, Racing

2009 KTM RC8 R - Click above for high-res image gallery

When the first brave competitors sought glory on the Isle of Man in 1907, winning brands went by names like Matchless, Peugeot and Norton. Over one hundred years later, Austrian manufacturer KTM will take a chance to add its name to that prestigious list.

Known around the world as one of the most challenging venues on two wheels, the Isle of Man TT (tourist trophy) race is not only rich in history and heritage but also entertainment value. The 37-mile mountain course with its many real-world obstacles is not only extremely difficult but has also proved to exact high levels of concentration if competitors wish not to sacrifice man and machine to the tarmac. With straightaway speeds approaching 200 miles per hour, followed by bike launching bumps, berms and a collection of what we would call the most intimidating cobblestone walls on the planet, the Isle of Man is not for the faint of heart.

UK-based and KTM-backed Redline Motorcycles will take the flagship RC8R and pilot James Edmeades across the drink this June, marking the first time a KTM has skirted the island for competition in the Superbike, Superstock and Senior TT Races. The company hopes this orange streak will extend off the rock and legitimize the RC8's place in competitive road racing events... as well as the hearts of fans the world over. At the very least, KTM and Redline know it will be an historic occasion as they tread in the tire marks of a century's worth of dedicated enthusiasts... naturally, they just want to do their treading from the top of the leader board.

Gallery: KTM RC8 R

[Source: BBC]

Isle of Man Austrian style: KTM joins the TT for 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Mar 2010 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Orange Crush: KTM to bring entire line of streetbikes to U.S.

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST

Filed under: Motorcycle

2010 KTM 690 Duke R - Click above for high-res image gallery

We'll be honest and say right off the bat that we have a soft spot for KTM. This particular blogger's first real two-wheeler was an old KTM 125 two-stroke that ate piston rings for breakfast, lunch and dinner... but boy was it fast! More recently, the traditionally off-road-focused Austrian marque has made a renewed plans to enter the U.S. market with an exciting line of streetbikes, and that's reportedly set to continue in full force for 2010.

According to the boys at Hell For Leather, KTM plans to bring its entire line of motorcycles Stateside, and that includes the 990 Adventure R, Super Duke R, SMT and SMR along with the RC8 R superbike (finally!) and the full line of single-cylinder 690s. Speaking of which, also new for 2010 is the 2010 690 Duke R that gets firmer suspenders, a bespoke paint scheme and carbon fiber fender and, most importantly, an enlarged engine with 70 horsepower and 51 lb-ft of torque. Hit the jump for a detailed PDF file that contains KTM's full line.

Gallery: 2010 KTM 690 Duke R

[Source: Hell For Leather]

Continue reading Orange Crush: KTM to bring entire line of streetbikes to U.S.

Orange Crush: KTM to bring entire line of streetbikes to U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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