Engine
With its 129 kW (173 hp) of power, the V2 on the RC8 R can be considered as the measure of all things for ultra-sporty twins, with maximum performance, predictable characteristics and high reliability. The KTM engine impresses with an extremely broad rev range and spontaneous throttle response, while supplying supreme ride quality.
The main reasons for the outstanding performance of the RC8 R V-twin with 75° cylinder angle are the state-of-the-art cylinder heads with twin plug ignition, flow-optimized ducts and cam follower drive, each with two overhead camshafts for four valves. Valve timing is adjustable via the camshaft gears.
The twin plug ignition system on the latest RC8 R fires the two differently sized spark plugs in each cylinder head independently of each other in such a way that more efficient combustion and a smoother, optimally controlled combustion sequence are achieved at all times. The result: even more controllable power, lower fuel consumption and less emissions.
The electronic Keihin engine management system with twin throttle valves regulates the modern electronic fuel injection system on the RC8 R, focusing on maximum power with predictable engine characteristics and spontaneous responsiveness with controllable throttle response.
Chassis and Suspension
The intricately made light alloy swingarm makes a significant contribution to the outstanding traction of the RC8 R. The position of the swingarm can be adjusted by means of an eccentric on the lever linkage. In this way, compression can be minimized and squatting prevented when accelerating out of corners.
The sophisticated internal mechanism of the WP shock absorber on the RC8 R completely isolates the rebound damping from the compression stage, so that both can be adjusted without affecting one another. The compression damping can also be set for high speed and low speed. The suspension set-up range extends comfortably to racing conditions.
The set-up ranges on the RC8 R’s high-quality, upside-down forks from WP Suspension extend – separately for spring basis as well as the damping’s rebound and compression stages – from country road comfort to tough racing conditions. A WP steering damper keeps the forks on track, even in extreme conditions.
Brakes and Wheels
The RC8 R’s brake system with highest quality Brembo components functions perfectly, sensitively and steadily. At the front, for example, two radially-mounted, four-piston brake calipers and two 320 mm and 5 mm thick, semi-floating brake discs provide massive stopping power.
The lightweight, Marchesini, aluminum die-cast wheels on the RC8 R are equipped with Dunlop SportSmart tires. These top-quality tires provide endless grip, whether on a wet country road or a scorching hot racetrack. They have a decent service life and they support the unrivaled qualities of the KTM chassis.
Setting Options
The RC8 R not only offers extraordinarily relaxed ergonomics for all its supreme sportiness, but also more ergonomic setting options than any other series production superbike. Footrests: two heights, each with two positional variants. Foot levers: variable lever operating angle and lever length. Seat: two heights. Hand levers: variable. Handlebar: two heights and two angles.
Specifications
Quotes
Total Motorcycle—-“The dual-plug ignition ensures a perfect combustion control, with the pleasant side effect of a high output, peaking at 175 hp and 127 Nm of torque. An eccentric height adjustment bracket in the rear suspension linkage adds more set-up options. The carefully tuned suspension ensures a composed and comfortable ride even on public roads. As the first uncompromising hypersports tire, the Dunlop SportSmart delivers a first-rate performance on the track, in everyday road riding and in the wet. All this makes the RC8 R a consistently developed package for a single purpose – great fun on every mile!”
Bikez—-“A strictly limited number of bikes for those who want to use their 1190 RC8 R exclusively on the racetrack. Factory-homologated for Superstock and built to be ´ready to race´ by the KTM Racing Division, with all the goodies from the KTM PowerParts range that make the potential for race success even greater.”
gallery: 2012 KTM 1190 RC8 R
