| Author | Message | ||
     Jpfive |
The October issue of SR has a full test of the RC8. Many comparisons made to the 1098, but not one mention of our bike - which was tested last month - a little disappointing. They liked the motor, handling and ergonomics, while slamming the engine heat ("cooks your legs"), seat and throttle response. Dyno results: 134.9HP @ 10,250 RPM, Torque 75.4 @ 7000 RPM. Other specs: 444# wet, 4.4 gal tank, 56.3" WB; 1/4 mile 10.27 sec @ 138.1 mph; Roll ons 60-80 mph/3.05 sec, 80-100/3.38 sec; Top speed NA; Avg fuel mileage 36 mpg. Most annoying paragraph heading: "Another V-Twin Competitor Finally Appears" Reading the paragraph makes it clear the author considered Ducati as the only other maker in this niche. I have misplaced my SR issue with the 1125R test. Anybody care to research their specs on our bike for comparison? Jack | ||
| Xl1200r |
Going off memory, the specs sound pretty similar. I think the RC8 and 1098 are more similar than the 1125 is to either. | ||
| Pariah |
The most important spec about the RC8 is the cost... it goes for about 10,000 British pounds, so it's probably going to be more than US$18,000 when the MSRP gets released (haven't been able to find it). Unless they want to offer Americans some major discount... in the interests of long-term US-Austria trade relations, of course. Given the price difference, I don't think the comparison is fair. (Message edited by pariah on September 21, 2008) | ||
| Helicon |
You're right the price difference is not fair ... for Ducati and KTM. The Buell 1125R is $11,995. This equals a motorcycle that is different, fun to ride, and can still compete with the best for thousands less. | ||
| Bikejunky |
The RC8 spec sheet reads almost identical to that of the 1098 as far as chassis and cockpit dimentions. I have to admit that for the price the 1125R still beats both, but I lust for the 1098R. | ||
| Redbuelljunkie |
Here's what Road Racing World said about the RC8 in the October issue: "The 2-1 exhaust system is one of the KTM's most unique features, and a true double-edge sword. Header pipes from each cylinder merge and flow into a large, semi-oval muffler mounted directly beneath the engine, a la Buell." "On my first ride on the bike, I kept looking down at my right leg, expecting to see hot radiator fluid spewing onto my riding pants. I'm not exaggerating- I felt like I was literally being burned." "At speed, it was tolerable. In town, you'll soon be looking for the guy who sold you this thing, revenge on your mind. Blame the catalytic converter and a poorly-designed exhaust exit." "You could compare the RC8 to the Ducati 1098, but it wouldn't go entirely well for the KTM." "I've ridden several sporting big twins- the Ducati 1098S, Buell 1125R and the Aprilia RSV1000- in recent months. To me, the RC8 most closely approximates the Buell. While the KTM website for the RC8 keeps using the phrase "race-ready", the bike seems more suited to street use than the track. It reminds me of the Buell more than anything else- and that's not a bad thing at all." MSRP= $19,498 Article- Zen And The V-Twin By Michael Gougis (Message edited by redbuelljunkie on September 21, 2008) (Message edited by redbuelljunkie on September 21, 2008) | ||
| Dtx |
I just read the Sport Rider article. To me, it seems they were just as critical of the KTM as they were to the Buell. If they 09 Buells are sorted out as well as they say, I think we will start getting some pretty favorable reviews from the press. | ||
| 4cammer |
MSRP= $19,498 ...... holy crap. You think it is hard to find a good Buell dealer? 2009 1125R $11,995.00 is starting to look like a steal. |
