This bike just SOLD in 2 days! Congratulations to buyer and seller! -dc
The latest Featured Listing in the RSBFS catalog is this fantastic KTM RC8R. By all counts a dark horse in the 2008 – 2013 big bore sport bike arena, the KTM remains a unique and rare offering bristling with features and performance that made it a real contender. This was a bike that took the fight to the Japanese and the Italians before its untimely demise due to corporate mandates. The origami shape, the 75 degree V-twin sound, the huge exhaust slung under the chassis and the bright orange trellis frame makes it clear that something different was happening here – something different that was unmolested by rider aids or anti-wheelie wizardry. The RC8R is a bike that you ride via command and control, and as such represents possibly the last honest large capacity sport bike of the type.
Featured Listing: 2013 KTM RC8R
The lack of electronic nannies does not mean that this mighty KTM is archaic or ill-designed. The truth is there is some truly stunning technology embedded into the DNA of this model that enhances rideability and performance. Take the complex engine management system that includes dual plugs in each head that are capable of firing independently to promote clean burning and torque at lower RPM, while firing together at hard throttle settings and higher RPM to maximize efficiency. The intake system consists of multiple butterfly valves that broaden the torque curve based on RPM and speed, all backed by a throttle body EFI setup. The 1195cc engine was good for 175 HP at over 10,000 RPM, pushing the RC8R to nearly 170 MPH on the top end.
From the seller:
2013 KTM RC8R, I purchased it new in 2014. What can I say about this V-twin rocket that hasn’t already been said here? Fun to ride doesn’t begin to describe this torque monster. I’m ashamed to admit it, but, I have to be realistic – this is the proverbial “its been driven by a little old lady from Pasadena to church on Sundays, never over 25 MPH.” Well, in my case mostly to the local gym and back. And, not frequently at that!It is completely stock. I’ve changed the oil 3 times. Buyer will get a new oil filter and a jug (4L) of Motorex Oil. Chain Degreaser and Lube. I replaced the battery a couple of years ago.
The photos are a year old because I contemplated selling it last year – and only rode it 233 miles this year – so, the odometer reading is currently 3,854. Only issue is the small tear in the striping where the passenger seat goes (see photo).
Located in Sacramento, with a clean Montana title
$9,499 and a box of Kleenex for my tears.
The big fly in the RC8R ointment was the relative recent entry of KTM into the sport bike world. KTM was a well-respected name in motorcycle circles, but had up to this point made their name with motocross and enduro bikes, and a dominant position at the front of events such as the Dakar Rally. Winning over the sport bike crowd required, well, winning. KTM duly announced plans to attack the FIM SuperStock championship in Europe, created a RC8R one-make series, and saw limited success (highest finish of 4th place) in the US AMA Superbike championship with Chris Filmore. Without the dominant performance shown by their off road machinery KTM struggled to move units off showroom floors. The nail in the coffin was a proclamation from the KTM CEO that they would no longer create street bikes that had the capability to cause irresponsible riding on the street. With that, the capable RC8R project was shelved for good.
Today’s Featured Listing is the last year model of the RC8R line. Production ended in 2013, but this particular example was purchased in 2014 out of remaining stock. Showing the classic lines of the RC8 in bright orange and white KTM livery, you are looking at a neo classic that exhibits character and novelty in a sea of common looking plastic rockets. This is your chance to jump on a one-owner, low mileage underappreciated machine before the world realizes what it overlooked. This is a gem that will continue to look like a standout wherever you go, and it will get you there with speed and style. This well-loved KTM will undoubtedly steal your heart, and by the sound of it also comes with the the heart of the original owner. That is probably the highest compliment bestowed upon the lesser known RC8R line, and bodes well for the future collectibility of this model. Good Luck!
MI
