First Generation – 2008 KTM RC8

In Austria, Sport by Tim HuberLeave a Comment

In 2008, KTM released the 1190 RC8 with big plans of tapping into the flagship Superbike market along with some grand WSBK ambitions. The RC8 would see another seven years of production, receiving various tweaks and upgrades in that time but KTM would ultimately fail to get the traction they had hoped for in the market along with a less-than-stellar record on the track in organized racing. Because of disappointing sales figures, the RC8 is one of the rarest modern superbikes (especially considering it only went out of production in 2015) making this 1,150cc superbike more noteworthy than you’d think.

The V-twin powered RC8 was the “Ready to Race” brand’s first ever Superbike design, originally using the 999cc Super Duke power plant when the concept was first debuted in 2005. Like other KTM’s, the use of a steel trellis frame separates this bike from its counterparts who almost all use an aluminum frame, though the RC8’s subframe is still aluminum. WP, a subsidiary of the Austrian manufacturer, developed the high-end suspension (and swingarm) for this exclusive machine.

Another factor that separates the RC8 from the rest of the literbike crowd is its aggressive looking design made up of sharp angles and lines. The tail section is instantly recognizable as being from the RC8, the tank’s shape is unique as it the bike’s stylish mono-LED headlight assembly. The underslung exhaust (a la Panigale) was always one of my favorite features along with the factory tank sliders which I feel actually improve the bikes look whereas most protective components detract from it.

In my years of riding I’ve become what I’d consider to be a decently competent sport-rider, but after swinging a leg over the RC8 last year I can say it genuinely scared me. It was a feeling I haven’t experienced since riding a supersport for the first time. The RC8 is a beast that isn’t easy to tame, when riders talk about having to wrestle a bike this is exactly what they’re referring to. Having said that I’ve seen these at the track being piloted by riders more skilled than myself and I have no doubt in my mind that these are pretty epic machines, albeit in the hands of the right person. Just because the 2008 model only produces 151hp (and 85 ft/lbs of torque) doesn’t mean this bike can’t seriously move.

Aside from a limited edition Red Bull livery, the vast majority of RC8’s come in a classic white and black color scheme with orange highlights. The black and orange factory paint that this example wears is a rare feature on an already rare bike. This RC8 is being sold by its original owner who has only clocked 4,300 miles on this highly-aggressive machine since purchasing it. This super clean 2008 (first gen) KTM 1190 RC8 can be found for sale here on Craigslist on Long Island, New York with a price of $9,800.