For the first time, the successful, and predominantly dirt-bike manufacturer, KTM, has created its own superbike and thereby entered into the upper echelons of the motorcycle world. With the 1190 RC8, the Austrian marque has introduced a unique combination of technology and design that takes on the best of what Italy and Japan have to offer.
What makes the RC8 so special is fourfold: dazzling styling; an outstandingly light meshwork chassis made from highly rigid tubular steel; massive and wide-ranging torque and a fabulously high performance from the compact 1148cc two-cylinder motor.
Precisely balanced, the chassis of the 1190 RC8 delivers just as much pleasure on winding country roads as it does on super fast racing circuits. And no compromise has been made in terms of suspension and brakes as both use custom-manufactured elements especially developed for the RC8. Another cool touch is the sophisticated adjustable ergonomics, which you can tweak to suit both your riding style and your demands, by altering both road and race information separately.
The RC8 may appear to be a salvage beast but thankfully in reality it’s an intuitive animal that offers you confidence inspiring performance. Of course it still looks and sounds the part, which is what is crucially important after all.
Unfortunately the only drawback was a snappy gearbox, and had it not been for this point, the RC8 could well have won the Ultimate Vehicle award. We were informed by KTM that they are already in the process of sorting this issue out. Regardless, the styling, overall performance and quality finish are more than enough to entice customers to the showroom. One small suggestion however, choose the bike in white as it is simply gorgeous.
Vehicle KTM 1190 RC8
Price ?? USD
Engine 152bhp, 1,148cc 2-cylinder, 4 stroke, V 75-degree
Why Styling, performance, usability and novelty.
www.ktm-rc8.net
