At its launch in 2008, the KTM RC8 superbike was as a new mouth-watering Austrian alternative to Japanese and Italian motorcycles. By the time production ended in 2015, the more focused KTM RC8R model, like this one recently listed on eBay, had developed a cult following.
21st Century Superbikes
After Japanese manufacturers started developing large-capacity four-cylinder engines that could rev to the moon, it was only a matter of time before they developed frames, brakes, and suspension systems to suit them.
These components afforded riders safe, reliable access to all that performance. The Honda CBR1000RR - opens in new window or tab., Suzuki GSX-R1000, - opens in new window or tab.Kawasaki ZX-10 - opens in new window or tab., and Yamaha R1 - opens in new window or tab. superbikes have become almost as famous as the firms that built them.
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For a while, it seemed as though Japanese motorcycles were untouchable. These fully-faired superbikes of the late 1980s were faster, less expensive than other makes, and in most cases, more reliable. Ducati - opens in new window or tab. and Aprilia - opens in new window or tab. fought back throughout the 1990s, upping their game via the crucible of motorsport. Ducati scooped up a raft of World Superbike - opens in new window or tab. titles. And for a spell in the 125-cc and 250-cc MotoGP classes, if you didn’t have an Aprilia, you were unlikely to win a race, let alone a championship.
An Austrian Alternative
To say that the KTM RC8 came as a surprise at its launch in 2008 is a massive understatement. KTM enjoyed a fine reputation for building off-road bikes. For the firm to roll out a serious superbike contender was wildly ambitious, and the first offerings weren’t up to scratch.
The gearbox and fuel injection were known rough spots for the RC8’s first two years of production. Reviewers claimed that no two bikes had the same quality of gear shifts. Even the good ones weren’t that great. Add to this a lumpy fuel delivery, and it was clear that there was still work to do.
RC8-R Is the One to Have
Fortunately, KTM listened to the feedback and, in 2010, produced the bike you see here, the KTM RC8R. It first appeared in 2010 as a 2011 model in the US with a larger engine and more horsepower and torque than the RC8. KTM also made significant improvements in the gearbox and fuel injection.
Compression was upped to a lofty 13.5:1, so chateau-bottled gasoline is essential. Peak power was rated at 175 horsepower, enough even today for all but the most power-crazed pilots.
Handling and Chassis Bling
The KTM RC8R's 1,200-cc V-twin is mounted longitudinally in a pretty Ducati-style tubular steel trellis frame. KTM kept as much engine weight as possible in the center and then added:
- Brembo brakes - opens in new window or tab. (four-piston front, twin-piston rear)
- WP suspension - opens in new window or tab. finished in a titanium-aluminum-nitride coating
The KTM RC8R excelled in its adjustability. The brake and clutch levers - opens in new window or tab., rear brake pedal, handlebars, gear shifter, footpegs - opens in new window or tab., and seat height were adjustable, enabling riders of all shapes and sizes to find the most comfortable position.
Contemporary reviewers typically spoke of the KTM’s exemplary handling, ease of use, comfort, and engineering quality. The RC8R’s production run ended before it was fashionable to have a whole suite of performance aids, so there are none at all on this bike.
This One Looks Like a Beauty
With just 2,600 registered miles, this machine presents exceptionally well in the eBay listing. The vendor added further value with improvements like deleting the secondary air system, which improves power delivery. They also sensibly added R&G parts - opens in new window or tab. to protect the bike's extremities if it’s dropped.
Fluids and tires are new, so all that remains is for someone to add many miles to its current count. This is a mint-condition example of one of the most unique yet reliable superbikes money can buy.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.