Segment:
High-performance Superbike / Sportbike
Target Audience:
Performance-oriented riders, track day enthusiasts, experienced DIY mechanics
Competitors 2010:
Ducati 1098/1198, Yamaha YZF-R1, Honda CBR1000RR, Suzuki GSX-R1000, Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R, Aprilia RSV4
Design Philosophy:
KTM's signature 'Ready to Race' philosophy, sharp styling, aggressive riding posture, high-quality components
Unique Selling Points:
Unique V-twin engine configuration, distinctive styling, premium chassis and suspension components (WP).
Primary Coverage:
Complete Service and Repair
Specific Systems:
Engine, Transmission, Chassis, Electrical System, Fuel System, Cooling System, Suspension, Brakes, Bodywork, Diagnostics
Estimated Pages:
Approx. 400-600 (typical for comprehensive service manuals)
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Language:
English (typical for international market manuals)
Engine:
V-Twin engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, timing, valve clearance adjustment, lubrication, cooling system
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly and assembly, shift drum and lever mechanisms, lubrication
Chassis And Suspension:
Front fork (WP Suspension) overhaul and adjustment, rear shock absorber (WP Suspension) servicing, swingarm and linkage maintenance, frame inspection
Brakes:
Brake system bleeding, caliper overhaul, master cylinder servicing, disc inspection, ABS system troubleshooting (if equipped)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, ignition system, battery, charging system, starter motor, lighting, instrumentation, ECU diagnostics
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (throttle bodies, injectors, fuel pump, pressure regulator), fuel tank, fuel lines
Maintenance:
Routine service, oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, brake pad replacement, coolant flush
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common issues, fault code interpretation, electrical system diagnosis
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation
Rebuilds:
Engine and transmission complete disassembly, inspection, and reassembly
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to full engine and chassis rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics.
Engine Type:
V-Twin, 75° cylinder angle
Bore X Stroke:
103 mm x 71 mm
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 170 hp (at crank)
Torque:
Approx. 125 Nm (at crank)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Keihin
Throttle Body:
Dual throttle bodies, 52 mm diameter
Oil Type Recommendation:
Fully synthetic motorcycle oil, SAE 10W/50 or 15W/50 (check manual for specific API/JASO rating)
Oil Capacity With Filter:
Approx. 3.8 - 4.0 Liters (refer to manual for precise capacity)
Width:
Approx. 745 mm (excluding mirrors)
Height:
Approx. 1130 mm (at windshield)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1425 mm
Dry Weight:
Approx. 180 kg
Wet Weight:
Approx. 202 kg (fully fueled)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not typically specified for motorcycles in the same way as cars, but should not exceed design limits.
Crash Test Ratings:
Not applicable for motorcycles in the traditional sense.
Braking System:
High-performance disc brakes, radially mounted calipers (Brembo), optionally with ABS.
Suspension System:
Adjustable WP USD front forks and WP monoshock rear suspension for optimal handling and stability.
Frame Construction:
Chromium-molybdenum steel trellis frame for rigidity and lightweight.
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, LED taillight.
Instrumentation:
Digital LCD display with analog tachometer, providing speed, RPM, gear position, fuel level, trip meters, and warning lights.
ABS Availability:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on certain models/markets.
Connectivity Features:
None in the modern sense (no Bluetooth, smartphone integration). Focus is on core riding performance.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 km or annually (refer to manual for exact mileage and time interval).
Air Filter Cleaning:
Check every 5,000 km, clean or replace as needed.
Valve Clearance Check:
Typically at 10,000 - 15,000 km or as specified in the manual.
Chain Maintenance:
Lubricate and adjust chain every 500-1,000 km depending on riding conditions.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (verify in manual), brake fluid should be replaced every 2 years due to moisture absorption.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, brake pads, tires, chain and sprockets.
Potential Issues To Monitor:
Early models might have minor electrical gremlins or fuel system quirks, but generally robust. Specific recalls or service bulletins should be checked.
Brand Focus:
KTM is renowned for its off-road motorcycles (motocross, enduro, adventure) and has progressively entered the streetbike segment.
Rc8 Debut:
The RC8 model line was KTM's first major foray into the Superbike segment, introduced in 2008, with significant updates for 2009 and 2010.
Rc8 R Variant:
A higher-performance RC8 R variant was also available, featuring increased displacement and power.
Production Years Rc8:
2008-2016
Manufacturing Location:
Austria
Performance Reviews:
Generally praised for its unique V-twin character, aggressive styling, and track-capable chassis. Often noted for its distinctiveness in a crowded superbike market.
Comparative Rankings:
While not always topping sales charts against Japanese rivals, it was well-regarded by enthusiasts for its performance and build quality.
