🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

KTM

Model:

1190 RC8 R

Year:

2009

Type:

Sportbike

Vin Prefix:

Please refer to VIN decoding for specific model year prefixes.

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

High-performance superbike, premium segment.

Key Competitors:

Ducati 1098/1198, Aprilia RSV4 Factory, Yamaha YZF-R1, Suzuki GSX-R1000, Kawasaki ZX-10R.

Design Philosophy:

Aggressive styling, track-focused ergonomics, cutting-edge performance and handling.

Rc8 R Distinction:

Enhanced performance and handling compared to the standard RC8, often featuring upgraded components.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Estimated Page Count:

500+

Manual Type:

Comprehensive Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Service:

Complete engine disassembly, assembly, overhaul, tuning, and diagnostics for V-twin engine.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system, fuel pump, injectors, throttle body, pressure regulation, and diagnostics.

Ignition System:

Ignition coils, spark plugs, ECU control, timing, and troubleshooting.

Cooling System:

Radiator, fan, coolant flow, thermostat, and water pump maintenance and repair.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust headers, catalytic converter (if applicable), mufflers, and lambda sensors.

Transmission Clutch:

Clutch operation, hydraulic system, gearbox disassembly, assembly, and lubrication.

Chassis Frame:

Frame integrity checks, headstock bearings, and suspension mounting points.

Suspension Front:

WP upside-down forks, internal components, oil changes, adjustments, and rebuild procedures.

Suspension Rear:

WP monoshock absorber, linkage system, adjustment procedures, and seal replacement.

Braking System Front:

Brembo radial calipers, brake discs, master cylinder, brake lines, fluid replacement, and bleeding.

Braking System Rear:

Brembo caliper, brake disc, master cylinder, brake lines, fluid replacement, and bleeding.

Wheels Tires:

Wheel bearing replacement, tire mounting/dismounting, and recommended pressures.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, lighting, starter motor, and ECU diagnostics.

Instrumentation:

Dashboard functions, sensor inputs, and troubleshooting for indicators and displays.

Bodywork Fairings:

Fairing removal, installation, and repair for optimal aerodynamics and aesthetics.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, chain adjustment, brake pad inspection, and general checks.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Step-by-step diagnostic guides for common and advanced issues across all systems.

Engine Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for complete engine disassembly, component inspection, and reassembly.

Suspension Tuning:

Guidance on adjusting suspension settings for track or road use.

Brake System Overhaul:

Procedures for caliper rebuilds, master cylinder replacement, and bleeding.

Electrical Component Testing:

Testing of charging system, ignition components, and sensors using multimeter and oscilloscope.

Fuel System Cleaning:

Instructions for cleaning fuel injectors and throttle bodies.

Valve Clearance Adjustment:

Step-by-step process for checking and adjusting valve clearances.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed, color-coded electrical schematics for easy troubleshooting.

Depth Level:

Expert-level technical detail suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Includes ECU fault code retrieval and interpretation, sensor data analysis.

Special Tools:

Lists and descriptions of specialized tools required for specific procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

High-resolution PDF, searchable text, hyperlinked for easy navigation.

Print Quality Suitability:

Optimized for digital viewing; printable on standard printers for workshop use.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

V-twin, four-stroke, DOHC, 8 valves per cylinder

Displacement:

1195 cc

Bore X Stroke:

103 mm x 71.5 mm

Compression Ratio:

12.3:1

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic fuel injection (EFI) with Keihin throttle bodies

Lubrication System:

Forced lubrication with oil pump

Cooling System:

Liquid-cooled

Engine Management:

Digital engine management system (ECU)

Claimed Horsepower:

Approximately 170 hp (125 kW) @ 9750 rpm

Claimed Torque:

Approximately 123 Nm (91 lb-ft) @ 9500 rpm

Fuel Type:

Unleaded premium gasoline (minimum 95 octane recommended)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

10.5 liters (2.77 US gallons)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed, claw-shifted

Clutch Type:

Wet multi-disc clutch, hydraulically actuated

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios are detailed in the manual.

Final Drive:

X-ring chain 525

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 2035 mm (80.1 in)

Width:

Approximately 760 mm (29.9 in) (without mirrors)

Height:

Approximately 1125 mm (44.3 in) (without mirrors)

Seat Height:

Approximately 845 mm (33.3 in)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 1425 mm (56.1 in)

Dry Weight:

Approximately 182 kg (401 lbs)

Kerb Weight:

Approximately 204 kg (450 lbs) (fully fueled)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Certification:

Meets relevant international motorcycle safety standards.

Braking Performance:

High-performance Brembo braking system for superior stopping power.

Suspension Control:

Adjustable WP suspension for optimized stability and handling.

Chassis Design:

Trellis frame provides rigidity and rider feedback.

Ergonomics:

Performance-oriented riding position designed for control.

💡 Technology Features

Dashboard Display:

Digital LCD dashboard with comprehensive readouts and indicator lights.

ABS:

ABS was optional or standard depending on market and specific trim level for the RC8 R. Consult manual for system details.

Diagnostic Port:

Features a diagnostic connector for accessing ECU data and performing system tests.

🔧 Maintenance

First Service:

Typically around 1,000 km (600 miles), covering oil change, filter replacement, and initial inspection.

Regular Oil Change:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 km (3,000 - 5,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.

Valve Clearance Check:

Every 10,000 - 15,000 km (6,000 - 9,000 miles).

Engine Oil:

SAE 10W-50 synthetic motorcycle oil meeting JASO MA or MA2 specification. Specific KTM recommendation is often Motorex Power Synth 4T 10W/50.

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Clutch Fluid:

DOT 4 hydraulic clutch fluid.

Cam Chain Tensioner:

Early models sometimes experienced issues with the automatic cam chain tensioner requiring manual inspection or replacement.

Fuel Pump Reliability:

In some instances, fuel pump reliability has been noted, particularly with contamination.

Vibration Characteristics:

Characteristic V-twin vibrations, though generally well-managed, can be a point of rider preference.

Wiring Harness Integrity:

As with many performance bikes, ensuring wiring harness integrity and proper connections is crucial for electrical system reliability.

📚 Vehicle History

Ktm Legacy:

KTM is renowned for its off-road prowess and its expansion into the street motorcycle market, particularly with performance-oriented sportbikes.

Rc8 Introduction:

The RC8 platform was KTM's first foray into the liter-class superbike segment, launched in 2008. The 'R' variant, introduced later, offered significant performance enhancements.

Production Period:

The 1190 RC8 R was produced for several model years, with the 2009 model representing an early but potent iteration.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Performance Acclaim:

The RC8 R was generally praised for its unique V-twin character, sharp handling, and striking design, earning accolades in performance motorcycle reviews.

Handling Dynamics:

Consistently rated highly for its agile and precise handling characteristics, especially on track.

Emissions Compliance:

Designed to meet Euro III emissions standards for its model year.