KTM Introduces 2010 Streetbike Lineup

Motorcycle.com Staff
by Motorcycle.com Staff

KTM introduces 2010 streetbike lineup

Austrian company increases North American streetbike presence
By Motorcycle.Com Staff, Nov. 19, 2009, Photography by Mitterbauer H.
KTM announced its North American 2010 streetbike lineup including the addition of four new models.

Coming to the U.S. for the first time in 2010 are the KTM 690 Duke R, 990 SM T, 990 SM R, and 1190 RC8R. Also announced were a pair of special edition versions of the RC8R, the IDM Red Bull Limited Edition and the Akrapovic Limited Edition.

The KTM 1190 RC8R sportbike features a number of options over the regular RC8 model. KTM engineers included lighter pistons, increased the compression ratio, reworked the combustion chamber and added adjustable camshafts to produce the R version. The chassis has revised geometry and the suspension has been tuned for racing. Adjustable pegs, shifter sub frame and ride height further enhance the RC8R.

The RC8R is powered by a 1,195cc LC8 Twin with a claimed power output of 170hp.

The 2010 IDM Red Bull Limited Edition KTM 1190 RC8R.

The two limited edition RC8R models were also presented at EICMA. The IDM Red Bull model is a replica of the RC8R entered in Germanys IDM Superbike series. Rider Stefan Nebel rode the Red Bull KTM RC8R to a second-place finish in the final standings. The Akrapovic version was introduced in the 2009 IDM finale in Hockenheim, Germany.

The 2010 Akrapovic Limited Edition KTM 1190 RC8R.

Both race replicas come with limited edition number plates, special edition body work and an optional closed-course race kit with Akrapovic titanium exhaust system, thinner head gaskets, upgraded air filter and a tool for camshaft adjustments.

Introduced at the 2009 EICMA show in Milan, Italy, the KTM 690 Duke R is powered by a 690cc single-cylinder engine with a claimed power output of 70hp. According to KTM, that makes the Duke Rs power plant the worlds most powerful single-cylinder engine in production. As with other KTM R models, the Duke R has upgraded suspension, a carbon fiber front fender and an orange powder-coated frame.

KTM claims the 690 Duke R has the world's most powerful single-cylinder production engine.

Joining the 690 SMC, KTM introduced two new members to its supermoto family. Previously available in Europe, the 990 SM T is equipped with Brembo brakes, detachable soft touring bags, a touring windshield and a five gallon fuel tank. The 990 SM R features an upgraded suspension, a monobloc Brembo front brake, forged Marchesini aluminum wheels, blacked out components and R styled graphics and orange powder-coated frame.

Previously available in Europe, the KTM 990 SMR and the base model 990 SMT will be available in North America as 2010 models.

Returning for 2010 are the base model 1190 RC8, 690 SMC, 690 Duke, 690 Enduro R, 990 Super Duke R, 990 Adventure and 990 Adventure R.

The KTM 990 SMT and the up-spec R version join the 690 SMC in KTM North America's supermoto line.

The expanded model lineup is the result of a shift in KTM North Americas strategy to increase its presence in the streetbike segment. KTM North America formed its new Street Bike Division in September under the leadership of Brad Hagi.

Building our street business is a key strategy in our long-term business plans, said Jon-Erik Burleson, president of KTM North America, in September. Despite any existing market conditions, we are in the business for the long haul and see our premium European street product lineup as crucial for the financial strength of both KTM and our dealers.

Related Reading
EICMA 2009: Milan Motorcycle Show
EICMA 2009: KTM Duke 690R unveiled
2009 KTM 1198 RC8R Review

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