The R evolution of the RC8 is now available in Canada, one year after it first became available in Europe. The improvements made to the R turn the docile street-oriented RC8 into a distinctly more refined and track-oriented machine, benefiting from major engine and suspension upgrades. While both models remain excellent street bikes, the more aggressive engine and suspension settings of the R are much more in line with KTM’s “Ready to Race” philosophy that the more user-friendly RC8.

Photo: KTM

Torque and power boosts
KTM developers pushed the envelope closer to its limit on the R’s V-twin engine: 2mm bore increase to go from 1,148 to 1,195 cc, more radical cylinder heads and camshafts, titanium valves, a more efficient water pump and twice the radiator capacity, and stronger connecting rods and crankshaft. The compression ratio increase from 12,5 to 13,5:1 requires at least 94 octane gas, and 95 if you can find it. The on-board computer’s mapping has been revised to calm down the throttle response, given the increase in torque and power from the revised engine.

The displacement increase (+4%) and other mechanical and mapping improvements have paid off for the R, producing 90.7 ft-lb of torque at 8,000 rpm (+2.5% compared to the RC8) and 170 hp at 10,250 rpm (+10%). You can push power up to 180 hp if you install the “Club Racing” package, but that will in all likelihood restrict you to the track, considering the noise and decreased drivability of such a high performance engine.
A much improved gear changing mechanism ensures easier, more positive shifts.

Striking looks
Style-wise, the R packs quite a punch with its edgy lines, attractively at odds with the more rounded profiles of the Japanese bikes. New accessories include a better-protecting windscreen, a carbon fibre front fender reminiscent of those found on MotoGP bikes, as well as gorgeous forged aluminum, 10-spoke wheels. What’s more, the RC8 R has traded in its traditional orange livery for something a little more refined, mat black with white accents that puts you in mind of a number plate. Makes you want to stick numbers on the bike and go play on the race track.

Chassis and suspension
Other than the lighter Marchesini wheels reducing weight by 2kg, the R features a high-end WP suspension with the usual preload / compression / rebound adjustability. The slightly modified front end geometry makes the bike more eager to attack corners without reducing stability in the corners, and the shortened wheelbase (1,430mm on the RC8 vs 1,425 on the R) favours efficient weight transfers forward under braking and rearward under acceleration. The thicker front discs on the R will also last longer and better absorb the heat generated under hard braking on the track.

Photo: KTM