KTM has shown a production version of
the 1190 RC8 superbike at Milan. Seen in prototype form a few years ago, the
new bike is equipped with an 1149 cc motor that pumps out a claimed 155 hp.
The RC8 gets a steel trellis frame with cast aluminum subframe, USD forks, radially-mounted Brembo calipers acting on 320 mm discs up front,
and a double-sided swingarm. Wet weight is claimed to be under 200
kg.
The RC8 will be available in two colour
schemes, orange, and white-and-black. No word yet on Canadian availability.
KTM may also bring out a semi-naked version
with the 1149 cc motor, according to a report found by
Motorcycle News, as well as an RC4 single-cylinder sportbike, a new
Superduke R 990, and an Adventure Travel 1190.
I believe the KTM 1190 RC8 will be arriving in NA for the 2009 riding season not next year where it will be available to Europe. I think it will be a challenge for the KTM to complete with the 1098 on Price, Performance and visual beauty. I want to see the white and black version. Based on the SuperDuke (I have one) being $16,998 I have a feeling it will be priced around $21,998 (Complete guess) and that is simply too much.
2008 is shaping up to be a real cracker for new bikes! I’ve just wet myself over the RC8… the production version actually looks better than the prototype. Hey KTM Canada: BRING IT!