Positioning:
The KTM 1190 RC8 was KTM's flagship superbike, designed to compete with established European and Japanese sportbikes. It represented a significant step into the hypersport segment for KTM, known primarily for its off-road prowess.
Competitors:
Primarily competed against Ducati 1098, Aprilia RSV1000R, Yamaha YZF-R1, Honda CBR1000RR, Suzuki GSX-R1000, and Kawasaki ZX-10R of the era.
Design Philosophy:
Characterized by its aggressive styling, high-quality components, and a potent V-twin engine focused on torque delivery.
Unique Selling Points:
Distinctive KTM design language, sophisticated chassis geometry, advanced WP suspension components, potent LC8 engine.
Primary Coverage:
Complete service and repair procedures for the 2009 KTM 1190 RC8
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, diagnostics, electrical schematics, torque specifications, technical data
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for this era and model complexity)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Engine:
V-Twin LC8 engine, fuel injection system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system
Transmission:
6-speed gearbox, clutch system, gear shift mechanism
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame, front forks (WP Suspension), rear shock absorber (WP Suspension), swingarm, steering head
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, brake calipers (Brembo), master cylinders, brake lines, ABS system (if equipped)
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, starter motor, alternator, lighting system, instrument cluster, ECU, sensors
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator
Bodywork And Fairings:
Fairing removal and installation, seat, fuel tank cover, tail section
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, spark plug replacement, coolant checks, brake fluid checks
Engine Repair:
Top-end rebuild, piston and ring replacement, valve adjustment, gasket replacement, crankshaft and connecting rod inspection
Transmission Repair:
Clutch replacement, gearbox disassembly and assembly, gear inspection
Suspension And Steering:
Fork seal replacement, fork oil change, rear shock absorber service, steering bearing replacement
Brake System Service:
Brake pad replacement, brake fluid flush and bleed, caliper service, master cylinder overhaul
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting electrical faults, sensor testing, wiring harness repair, ECU diagnostics
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic rider maintenance to complete engine and gearbox overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical schematics.
Searchability:
Searchable text for quick information retrieval
Resolution:
High-resolution scans for clear text and images
Quality:
Printable for physical reference
Binding:
Not applicable (digital format)
Paper:
Not applicable (digital format)
Type:
Liquid-cooled, 8-valve, DOHC, 75° V-twin
Bore X Stroke:
103 mm x 71.3 mm
Compression Ratio:
12.3:1
Horsepower:
Approx. 155 hp @ 9,750 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 120 Nm (88.5 lb-ft) @ 9,750 rpm
Induction:
Electronic fuel injection (Keihin, 52mm throttle bodies)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded premium gasoline (min. 95 RON)
Type:
Dry sump lubrication
ECU:
KTM Engine Control Unit
Length:
Approx. 2,105 mm (82.87 in)
Width:
Approx. 740 mm (29.13 in) (without mirrors)
Height:
Approx. 1,150 mm (45.28 in) (seat height)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 185 kg (407.85 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 205 kg (451.95 lbs) (fully fueled)
Gvwr:
Not applicable for motorcycles
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,430 mm (56.30 in)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
Not applicable (cast alloy wheels)
Crash Test Results:
Not applicable for motorcycles
Braking System:
Dual 320mm front discs with Brembo radial 4-piston calipers, 220mm rear disc with Brembo 2-piston caliper. Optional ABS available.
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, LED tail light
Frame Construction:
Chromium-molybdenum steel trellis frame
Ergonomics:
Sport-oriented riding position with adjustable footpegs
Infotainment System:
Not applicable (minimal infotainment features on this era sportbike)
Instrument Cluster:
Digital LCD display with analog tachometer, providing speed, RPM, gear position, fuel level, and trip information.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on certain models, typically switchable.
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 5,000 km or 6 months, whichever comes first
Air Filter Cleaning/Replacement:
Every 10,000 km or annually
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000 km
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 20,000 km
Engine Oil:
SAE 10W-50 (Fully Synthetic, API SG/SH/SJ/SL or JASO MA/MA2 compliant)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5 liters (3.7 US qt) without filter change, 3.7 liters (3.9 US qt) with filter change
Coolant:
Mixture of distilled water and antifreeze (ethylene glycol based), recommended ratio 50:50
Fork Oil:
WP Suspension Fork Oil (e.g., SAE 5W, specific viscosity based on service manual recommendation)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, brake pads, chain and sprockets, fork seals, wheel bearings.
Potential Electrical Gremlins:
Early models sometimes exhibited minor electrical connection issues, often resolved with proper inspection and contact cleaning as detailed in service bulletins or this manual.
Fuel Pump Reliability:
While generally robust, fuel pump maintenance and fuel filter cleaning are important preventative measures.
Brand Focus:
KTM is an Austrian manufacturer renowned for its high-performance off-road motorcycles, but has successfully transitioned into street motorcycles, particularly with its LC8 V-twin engine platform.
Rc8 Development:
The RC8 project was KTM's ambitious entry into the superbike market. It underwent significant development, with the 2009 model being an early iteration, followed by refinements in subsequent years.
Rc8 Variants:
While the 2009 model is the focus, later models included the RC8 R with increased displacement and performance.
Production Location:
Austria
Production Years:
2008-2015 (for RC8/RC8 R models)
Motorcycle Reviews:
The 2009 RC8 received critical acclaim for its sharp handling, powerful engine, and striking design, though often noted for its firm suspension and track-oriented ergonomics compared to some rivals.
Performance Ratings:
Consistently rated highly by motorcycle publications for its track performance and unique character.
Emissions Compliance:
Compliant with Euro 3 emissions standards for its model year.
