KTM->ke1954 brought the 2011 RC8 R superbike to EICMA Show, and we are sure glad they did. This is the company's most powerful, smooth, and sophisticated model. For the model year 2011, KTM focuses on a thorough development of all aspects of the RC8 R.

The 2011 RC8 R->ke3147 is powered by a twin-cylinder engine that delivers an impressive 175 bhp and 127 Nm of torque. And with a total weight of only 185 kilos, the bike is ready to race. Thanks to the finely honed injection system, the rider is in full control of the enormous power at all times.

Combined with a new eccentric bracket in the shock linkage, the RC8 R can now be precisely dialed in within a significantly wider range of settings. For 2011, the RC8 R gets improved gear shift linkage, new LED daytime running lights, and an elaborate, high gloss paint job. The latest Dunlop SportSmart tires make for the icing on the cake.

Press release after the jump.

2011 KTM RC8 R

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2011 KTM RC8 R
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Press release

175 bhp, 127 Nm of torque, 185 kg „ready to race“, dual-plug ignition. These are the key parameters of the latest KTM 1190 RC8 R. But there is more to it than the bare specs: beyond them, there is a uniquely well-thoughtout Superbike, designed without compromise and built for chasing lap times – as well as exhilarating miles on any public road.
 
For the model year 2011, KTM focuses on a thorough development of all aspects of the RC8 R. The KTM development team’s goal was to build on the strengths of the previous generation while utilizing all the experience gained over the last two years in order to improve it further. In keeping with the KTM corporate philosophy, tight networking with the RC8 R racing team was of key importance.
 

More power, more torque


These are, in a nutshell, the key innovations of the twin-cylinder heart. The basic layout with the characteristic cylinder angle of 75 degrees as well as the boreto- stroke ratio is retained.
 
Inside the strong crankcase though spins a new crankshaft with a different mass distribution. Adjusting the flywheel mass of the 1,195cc twin makes for a smoother running engine. A newly developed dual-plug ignition ensures improved combustion control inside the two fourvalve cylinder heads. A welcome effect of the comprehensive engine revision is an even higher maximum output of now 175 bhp, as well as 127 Nm of torque. And incidentally, with that goes not just lower fuel consumption but also lower emissions. Launching the RC8 R onto the straight like a catapult, that torque gain makes for the most significant change.
 
Also, thanks to the finely honed injection system, the rider is in full control of the enormous power at all times. We dare say that this latest generation of the RC8 R is not just among the most powerful big twins ever, but also among the most smooth and sophisticated.
 

More comfort, more speed


Consummate sport riders know very well that even the best engine can only be as good as the chassis that contains it. In extensive tests we therefore developed a completely new suspension and damping set-up for the proven, first-rate RC8 R chassis which not just makes for significantly more comfortable ride but also for an improved race track performance.
 
Combined with a new eccentric bracket in the shock linkage, the RC8 R can now be precisely dialled in within a significantly wider range of settings. Hobby riders will enjoy this new RC8 R just as much as professional racers. Especially the first group of RC8 R users is going to be pleased with further 2011 modifications like the improved gear shift linkage, the new LED daytime running lights or the elaborate, high gloss paint job. The latest Dunlop SportSmart tires make for the icing of the cake.
 
And all that progress aside, one thing did not change even with the latest KTM RC8 R: riding enjoyment beyond words at every turn of the wheels!