KTM must have read our wish list for Christmas (we originally asked for a reduced price and free puppy with every purchase), as not only has the Austrian company improved upon its already impressive KTM 1190 RC8 R v-twin awesomebike, but they’ve considerable slashed the RC8 R’s MSRP. Prices so low, they’re practically giving the bike away, the 2011 KTM 1190 RC8 R will retail for $16,499 — a nearly $3,500 price reduction from the 2010 model (the RC8 R effectively takes over the price point of the RC8, which has been discontinued for 2011).
Making 175hp (with the right fuel), the 2011 KTM 1190 RC8 R benefits from a dual spark plug ignition setup that features two different spark plugs for different ignition points. Improving not only performance levels, the new spark plug configuration also gives the RC8 R a 12% fuel economy increase, while decreasing emissions. Also new for 2011 is a new crankshaft and flywheel which have increased masses (100g & 1,000g respectively) to smooth out the power pulses of the RC8 R.
The RC8 R also benefits from a revised 52mm throttle body, which has a new idle speed control cam that has been adjusted for smoother air flow. Helping manage all these improvements in the motor is a new ECU, which has a new gearbox sensor that helps the unit control engine braking in accordance with which gear the bike is in during clutch dumps.
In the chassis department, the 2011 KTM 1190 RC8 R has improved shifter components, along with new suspension specifications. The front forks feature a larger fork air chamber, while the rear shock sees a new spring rate for improved comfort during street riding. The rear linkage also has a larger range of adjustment.
Source/Photos: KTM
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