Market Segment:
High-performance, track-oriented sportbike with a premium price point.
Target Audience:
Enthusiast riders seeking a potent V-twin superbike with distinctive styling.
Key Competitors:
Ducati 1098, Aprilia RSV1000R, Yamaha YZF-R1, Suzuki GSX-R1000, Honda CBR1000RR.
Engine Layout:
V-twin (90°) configuration for characteristic torque delivery.
Styling:
Aggressive, sharp, and distinctive KTM design language.
Suspension:
High-quality, fully adjustable WP Suspension components.
Brakes:
Premium Brembo braking system for superior stopping power.
Engine Overview:
General information on the LC8 V-twin engine, lubrication system, and cooling system.
Fuel System:
Details on fuel tank, fuel pump, injectors, and fuel quality recommendations.
Ignition System:
Information on spark plugs and ignition timing (general).
Transmission Operation:
Explanation of the six-speed gearbox and clutch operation.
Chassis And Suspension:
Description of frame, front fork (WP Suspension), rear shock absorber (WP Suspension), and adjustability.
Brakes:
Operation of front and rear disc brakes, lever adjustments, and caliper identification (Brembo).
Wheels And Tires:
Information on wheel types, tire pressures, and recommended tire sizes.
Electrical System:
Overview of lighting, instrumentation, battery, and basic electrical components.
Instrumentation And Controls:
Detailed explanation of the dashboard, warning lights, and handlebar controls.
Pre Ride Inspection:
Checklist for essential pre-ride safety checks.
Operation Of Controls:
Guidance on using all motorcycle controls and switches.
Fueling Procedure:
Correct method for refueling the motorcycle.
Parking And Storage:
Recommendations for safe parking and long-term storage.
Basic Maintenance:
Routine checks such as oil level, coolant level, tire pressure, chain adjustment.
Troubleshooting Basic:
Guidance on identifying and resolving minor issues.
Depth:
Owner-level information for safe and correct operation and routine care.
Scope:
Focuses on rider interaction with the motorcycle, not detailed mechanical repair.
File Format Details:
Digital copy (if applicable) may be PDF. Printed copy ensures physical durability and ease of reference.
Print Quality:
High-quality printing for clarity of diagrams and text.
Binding Type:
Saddle-stitched or perfect bound for durability in a workshop or garage environment.
Paper Type:
Durable, semi-gloss paper stock to resist smudging and tearing.
Engine Type:
V-twin, four-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC
Displacement:
1195 cc (cc)
Bore X Stroke:
103 mm x 71.3 mm (mm x mm)
Compression Ratio:
12.3:1
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Cooling System:
Liquid cooling with electric fan
Claimed Horsepower:
160 hp @ 9000 rpm (hp @ rpm)
Claimed Torque:
124 Nm @ 7000 rpm (Nm @ rpm)
Fuel Type Recommendation:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum octane rating 95 (RON)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
15.5 liters (liters)
Transmission Type:
Constant mesh, 6-speed sequential gearbox
Clutch Type:
Wet multi-disc clutch, hydraulically actuated
Gear Ratios:
Refer to Service Manual for specific ratios, but typically designed for performance application.
Safety Certification:
CE, EPA, CARB compliance where applicable by market.
Braking System:
Dual front discs with radial-mount Brembo calipers, single rear disc with Brembo caliper.
Tire Technology:
High-performance radial tires designed for grip and handling.
Frame Design:
Lightweight yet strong trellis frame providing rigidity and feedback.
Ergonomics:
Sportbike ergonomics with rider-focused seating position and control placement.
Infotainment System:
Not applicable for this era/model. Focus is on performance and rider experience.
Traction Control:
Not standard on the 2008 RC8 model. Later iterations introduced optional traction control.
ABS:
Not standard on the 2008 RC8 model. Later iterations introduced optional ABS.
Connectivity Features:
Not applicable. No Bluetooth or smartphone integration.
First Service:
Typically around 1000 km (600 miles) or 1 month, whichever comes first.
Subsequent Services:
Intervals of 5000-10000 km (3000-6000 miles) or annually for checks, with major services at specific kilometer intervals.
Engine Oil Type:
Semi-synthetic or fully synthetic motorcycle oil, SAE 15W/50, meeting JASO MA/MA2 specifications.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.2 liters (with filter change) (liters)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant with corrosion inhibitors, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Chain Lubrication:
High-quality chain lubricant, recommended application every 500 km and after washing or riding in rain.
Common Wear Items:
Brake pads, clutch plates, tires, chain and sprockets, fork seals (depending on mileage and usage).
Potential Electrical Concerns:
Early models might have had minor electrical connector issues, but generally robust.
Engine Vibrations:
Characteristic of large V-twins; balanced shafts mitigate this significantly.
Brand Origin:
KTM AG, Austria, founded in 1934, known for off-road motorcycles before expanding into street bikes.
Rc8 Introduction:
The RC8 platform marked KTM's significant entry into the large-displacement superbike segment, with development starting in the early 2000s.
Generation:
First generation of the RC8, introducing the 1190 RC8 model.
Production Period:
2008-2014 (various iterations and displacements)
Manufacturing Location:
Austria
