Splashing through the summer on my RC8R

Posted: 18 July 2012
by Niall Mackenzie

The RC8R doing the biz at Knockhill

For sure the wet summer has curtailed my intentions of using my RC8R at every opportunity. That said I've had a fair amount mixed weather track time around the UK which has helped me bond with the big KTM.

I've found riding at tighter twistier tracks like Oulton and Knockhill are more satisfying as the low down grunt and quick handling means you can stay with pretty much anything.

At faster sweeping circuits like Donington or Silverstone she is perfectly stable but doesn't quite have the top end of the latest Blades and Gixers. Wherever I've been the handy underseat track suspension settings guide has been useful although I've tended to run slightly more rear compression damping than recommended. 

The Avon 3D Ultra Supersports have served me well (in all conditions) but at around 2500 miles I started to experience some unexpected rear slides so I'll be having a tyre change soon. It will be interesting to visit the same circuits on different rubber.

Come hell or more high water though, more miles are going to be covered and fun will be had. On August 11th myself and some BSB stars will be joining the Robinsons of Rochdale gang to ride from Manchester round Lancashire before meeting up at the shop.

I'm then heading off with the retired Scottish racing contingent (Moodie, Duffus, Morrison, MacPherson and an equally tight Yorkshire interloper called Whitham) on a North of Scotland jolly trying out fantastic roads in the daytime and malt whisky when the sun goes down and the midges come out. Rain suits will be packed, bikes of every description will be ridden and stories of mental racing days will be told.


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Greg Bartron
I was all set to purchase an RC8R with slipper clutch, Akrapovic titanium exhaust, kls quickshifter, and rear sets, but then I saw the press release for the BMW S1000RR HP4. I don't know if I should wait to see if the price is close to the KTM? I absolutely love everything about the KTM: styling, torque, ergonomics, adjustability, sound of the v twin, etc. It just has so much character. To use what some claim to be a cliche, but I actually feel is appropriate for the RC8R, it has soul. The looming question is do I risk not getting the KTM because of lack of inventory (I'm afraid of a change in styling and color scheme for the next model year) and wait to get more information on the HP4? With new technology like the DDC, there is always a chance for issues. If they are close in price would I be remiss in not getting the HP4 from a technological "bang for your buck" standpoint if you will even though I love everything about the RC8R? Head says BMW, but heart says KTM. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Posted: 08/08/2012 at 05:34


WB
I brought a new RC8R recently. Spent a good afternoon with a S1000RR first. Great bike but it's performance is beyond what you can use on the road unless you are taking big risks. Came away very impressed with the electronics and flexibility of the motor. However it could have had Suzuki on the tank at the end of the day. The styling and detailing is pretty average. Looks a bit like someone hit it in the face with a big stick. The KTM by contrast is a work of art. It draws a crowd wherever it goes. Its very comfortable for a sports bike and the fairing offers the best wind protection of the lot. It's made for real sized people too. The engine feels alive. Yes it's a bit lumpy down low but it is a big twin. The roll on punch is fantastic. Top end is a bit of a let down by contrast, but that doesn't mean its slow. There is a bit of vibration through the bars but nothing too bad. A big issue has been the gearbox with the previous models. No problem now. It does require a slow shift between first and second but thats it. Doesn't need a slipper clutch for the road either. The instruments are excellent. Lots of information. Down side - mirrors are useless, too much shake and all you see is your shoulders. Under seat storage is zero. Doesn't like commuting. After a diet of jap inline 4s this is my first european twin. If you want a racebike buy the BMW or Aprilia. If you want an awesome road bike that has bags of character and looks fantastic then buy the RC8R. I also get a big grin on my face every time I stick my head in the garage. Isn't that what you want?

Posted: 26/10/2012 at 19:52

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