2013 KTM 1190 RC8R
Miles: 5,127
Clean Title
Listed Price: $14,495
Listing Ends: February 26th, 2025
Austria’s KTM, long known for their offroad and racing machinery, dipped their toe into the lucrative production bike market with bikes like the original 620 Duke, an offroad single in futurist-supermoto drag. But no one was really prepared when they followed up by jumping into the superbike market with both feet and introduced the shockingly angular KTM RC8R. It was an incredibly competent machine, right out of the gate, although the gearbox came in for some criticisms early on. It was reworked significantly, and the four-valve, twin-plug 75° v-twin was increased from its initial 1148cc to 1195cc. The resulting 175hp and 90 ft-lbs of torque weren’t quite on par with v-twins twins from Ducati, but were at least in the ballpark, and the KTM’s more linear power delivery made the bike easier to ride than the 1199 Panigale. That flexible performance and a design that still looks modern, combined with relatively humane ergonomics suited to taller riders, makes the RC8R a pretty amazing option for sportbike fans looking for something a bit different.
The ultimate power tool from KTM. KTM designers pulled out all the stops in the art of engine building when it came to the 1190 RC8 R 2013. The rider has one of the most powerful V2 engines of our times and one of the best chassis in the world at his or her disposal – totally street-legal. With the precision to cut out the others when entering a curve. With the power and traction to pull away from them coming out of a curve. With the feedback and ergonomics to enjoy the 1190 RC8 R 2013 to the fullest.
I truly hate posting these sparse, badly-written dealer listings, but I unabashedly love the KTM RC8R, so I had to share this one. Also, were the photos taken at sunset, or is there an orange filter being used? Or maybe the bike’s inherent orangeness is just infusing its surroundings with a warm, tangerine glow? The RC8R really never sold well when it was new, in spite of it being a world-class superbike, and has generally languished in obscurity ever since, although asking prices have recently spiked, perhaps as a result of KTM’s financial troubles. If you’re in the market for a truly analog sportbike with absolutely striking looks and capable handling, this one might be worth a look, assuming the $14,495 asking price is negotiable…
-tad
its interestng how well these have held value. I can remember back in the days of the old RSBFS when there were 3 of the red bull editions for sale at the same time., wonder what those would be worth now