Segment:
High-performance Superbike
Brand Philosophy:
KTM's 'Ready to Race' ethos, focusing on sportbike performance and rider engagement.
Competitors:
Ducati 1098, Yamaha R1, Honda CBR1000RR, Suzuki GSX-R1000, Kawasaki ZX-10R of the era.
Design Language:
Aggressive, angular styling characteristic of KTM's modern design.
Engine Configuration:
V-twin engine, a departure from many inline-four competitors, offering distinct torque characteristics.
Chassis Technology:
Lightweight trellis frame, advanced WP suspension components.
Regions Covered:
European Union (EU), Australia (AUS), United Kingdom (UK), France (FR), Japan (JP)
Total Pages:
Approx. 200-250
Primary Language:
English (for EU, AUS, UK)
Additional Languages Potential:
French (FR), Japanese (JP) - specific regional versions may exist or be included as separate manuals.
Print Format:
Printed Booklet
Powertrain:
Engine operation, cooling system, exhaust system, fuel system (injection), lubrication system.
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame, front fork (WP Suspension), rear shock absorber (WP Suspension), swingarm, steering system.
Brakes:
Front dual disc brakes (Brembo), rear single disc brake (Brembo), brake fluid specifications, brake lever and pedal adjustment.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), ignition system, lighting (headlight, taillight, indicators), starter motor, fuses, wiring harness basics.
Controls And Instruments:
Handlebar controls, dashboard layout, instrument cluster functions (tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, warning lights), mirrors.
Basic Operation:
Starting the engine, shifting gears, braking, parking, pre-ride checks.
Maintenance:
Chain lubrication and adjustment, tire pressure checks, oil level checks, coolant level checks, cleaning procedures.
Troubleshooting:
Common warning lights and their meanings, basic diagnostic indicators.
Depth:
Covers essential owner-level maintenance, safety, and operational guidance. Does not include detailed mechanical repair procedures, diagnostic codes (beyond basic warning lights), or component-level disassembly/reassembly.
PDF Quality:
High resolution, with searchable text layers (if digitally sourced).
Print Type:
Professional offset printing or high-quality digital printing.
Binding:
Stapled or perfect bound (depending on page count).
Paper Stock:
Durable, often glossy or semi-gloss coated paper to withstand handling in a workshop or garage environment.
Type:
V-twin, four-stroke, liquid-cooled
Bore X Stroke:
103 mm x 71.1 mm
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Claimed Horsepower:
Approx. 170 hp @ 9,750 rpm (variant dependent)
Claimed Torque:
Approx. 125 Nm @ 8,000 rpm (variant dependent)
Induction:
Fuel injection (Keihin throttle bodies, twin injectors per cylinder)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded premium gasoline (RON 95 or higher)
Oil Type:
Fully synthetic motorcycle oil, SAE 10W/40 or 15W/50 (specific API classification required, e.g., JASO MA/MA2)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5 liters (with filter change)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant with anti-corrosion additives (specific KTM recommendation should be followed).
Width:
Approx. 750 mm (without mirrors)
Height:
Approx. 1,130 mm (seat height approx. 805 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 170 kg
Wet Weight:
Approx. 189 kg (with all fluids)
Gvwr:
Not typically specified for sportbikes in owner's manuals.
Crash Test Data:
Not applicable/available for motorcycles in the same way as cars.
Braking System:
High-performance Brembo radial master cylinders and calipers.
Lighting:
Powerful halogen headlight, LED taillight and indicators for increased visibility.
Frame Design:
Steel trellis frame designed for rigidity and feedback.
Ergonomics:
Sport-oriented riding position, though adaptable to a degree.
Tire Recommendations:
Specific sport-radial tire sizes and pressure recommendations for optimal grip and handling.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 km or annually, whichever comes first. Consult manual for exact mileage.
Chain Maintenance Interval:
Lubrication and tension check recommended every 500-1000 km or after riding in wet/dirty conditions.
Air Filter Check:
Recommended every 5,000 - 10,000 km, or more frequently in dusty conditions.
Coolant Check:
Check level regularly; coolant replacement typically every 2-3 years.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (for all hydraulic brake circuits)
Clutch Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (for hydraulic clutch actuation)
Fork Oil Viscosity:
Specific viscosity required by WP Suspension (e.g., SAE 5W or 10W), consult specific service data for exact type and quantity.
Early Models:
Some early production units may have experienced minor electrical gremlins or early wear on specific components. The 2008 model is the first iteration and often benefits from later production updates or recall fixes if applicable.
Fueling Smoothness:
Early versions of the RC8 sometimes had minor fueling hesitation at low RPMs, which could be addressed with ECU remapping or specific software updates.
Vibration:
As with many V-twin superbike engines, some vibration is inherent, particularly at certain RPM ranges. Handlebar weights or specific damper kits can mitigate this.
Origin:
Austrian manufacturer with a strong off-road and racing heritage.
Motorcycle Focus:
KTM has historically specialized in dirt bikes and adventure bikes, with the RC8 marking a significant entry into the high-performance sportbike segment.
Rc8 Introduction:
The RC8 was first unveiled as a concept in 2003, with production beginning in late 2007 for the 2008 model year. It represented KTM's ambitious move into the liter-bike superbike class.
Development Philosophy:
Designed from the ground up, focusing on a unique V-twin engine and distinctive styling, rather than adapting an existing platform.
Manufacturing Location:
Austria (Mattighofen)
Production Run Start:
Late 2007 for the 2008 model year.
Major Awards:
While the 2008 RC8 was a debut model, its design and engineering were highly praised, often appearing in 'most anticipated' or 'most stylish' lists for its segment. Specific performance awards typically came with later iterations and refinements.
Press Reviews:
Motorcycle publications of the era generally lauded its distinctive character, potent V-twin engine, and sharp handling, though noted its development as a new platform.
