Standing out in the motorcycle industry's most innovative segment is not easy. After blowing all our minds with its RC8 superbike, dirt bike specialist KTM struck back with a faster R model that also proved easier to exploit.

True to form, however, the engineers at KTM wasted little time developing a track-only variant called RC8 R TRACK. We at Moto123.com were privileged to spend a few hours with this tarmac shredder at Autodrome St-Eustache, and here are our impressions.


Exclusive
As mentioned, the 2013 KTM 1190 RC8 R TRACK is not even street-legal: It has no lights, turn signals or ignition key. Specifically designed for the track, it's all about racing and posting fast times.

It's so exclusive that you'll be hard pressed to find one on the track, too. Yet, the 2013 KTM 1190 RC8 R TRACK is not exactly out of reach considering a Japanese superbike can cost around $15,000 at the dealer and another $10,000 at the tuning shop.

The 2013 KTM 1190 RC8 R TRACK is not street-legal: It has no lights, turn signals or ignition key. (Photo: Dan Photos)

Plenty of bang for your buck
The 2013 KTM 1190 RC8 R TRACK weighs just 173 kg (11 kg less than the more civilized version), near most 600 cc supersport. With 190 hp at 12,000 rpm, this machine has an incredible power-to-weight ratio.

In terms of equipment, the company basically made no compromises. Here's a short list:

• Automatic shift mechanism for lightning-quick shifting without load interruption;
• KTM PowerParts multi-adjustable footrest system;
• Multi-adjustable racing shock absorber from WP Suspension;
• Steering damper;
• Racing fairing;
• Sports seat providing even better hold;
• Slick tires with ultra-high traction compound;
• Hinged hand levers as a precaution against ground and enemy contact;
• Anti-hopping clutch;
• Akrapovic exhaust system;
• Lighter racing chain;
• Specific maps;
• Paddock stand for service and repair work.

The 2013 KTM 1190 RC8 R TRACK weighs just 173 kg (11 kg less than the more civilized version), near most 600 cc supersport. (Photo: Dan Photos)

The learning curve
Intimidating even at idle, the 2013 KTM 1190 RC8 R TRACK sends a chill down your spine when you push the start button. The harsh operation and powerful sound of the twin-cylinder engine are enough to let the adrenaline flow before you even roll out of the pit lane. The ensuing explosion is like the meanest, hungriest lion pouncing on wounded prey.

The riding position on the 2013 KTM 1190 RC8 R TRACK is obviously focused on track riding, with high-mounted footrests, a hard seat, and most of your weight resting on the front. Likewise, the race-ready, ultra-stiff suspension would be a nightmare on the road. Prepare to feel every imperfection in your path.

The first few laps are quite challenging because the 2013 KTM 1190 RC8 R TRACK hates slower paces. Keep pushing, however, and it will soon become more fluid, as if realizing that you're not a beginner. That's when the bike puts its game face on and starts posting decent times with surprising ease.

On the other hand, exploiting the 2013 KTM 1190 RC8 R TRACK to the max is a whole other challenge. You need to master engine revs upon entering corners and finely use the throttle until you come out of them. With a shaky right wrist and less-than-sharp riding skills, you can easily upset the chassis.

The harsh operation and powerful sound of the twin-cylinder engine are enough to let the adrenaline flow before you even roll out of the pit lane. (Photo: KTM)

Corner-craving monster
The 2013 KTM 1190 RC8 R TRACK perfect front end help you attack the various twists and turns with surgical precision. Diving toward to the second apex like a championship-winning superbike, it proves just as fast as a 600 in the «S». Despite a total lack of electronic aids, the rear wheel effectively transmits power to the ground when launching out of a corner and provides clear feedback so you can make tiny adjustments if necessary.

In straight lines, the 2013 KTM 1190 RC8 R TRACK delivers strong and linear acceleration, each electronic shift sending you even faster toward the next bend. Fortunately, there's a great Brembo braking system you can rely on, with racing brake pads for fade-free deceleration even in the toughest conditions.

This may seem counter-intuitive, but the 2013 KTM 1190 RC8 R TRACK is actually very docile and well behaved. It precisely follows the line you want to hit, and leans over the apex with remarkable effortlessness. Unlike 4-cylinder rivals, this beast is always pleasant to ride, even after several laps on a super-tight track like the one at Autodrome St-Eustache.

That being said, the 2013 KTM 1190 RC8 R TRACK rides on slick tires that help you attack the various twists and turns with surgical precision. (Photo: Dan Photos)

Almost there
The 2013 KTM 1190 RC8 R TRACK benefits from an exemplary chassis with fantastic front end, powerful brakes, as well as superb stability, and grip in corner exits. Too bad for the ride-by-wire throttle and inconsistent engine brake, though. Put a few hours on a dyno for a more advanced calibration of the ECU would likely improve the precision and characteristics of the engine.

Regardless, the 2013 KTM 1190 RC8 R TRACK is delightfully balanced, competent and efficient. Again, I can't overstate the merits of its chassis. The Austrian manufacturer made a bold move, the TRACK version is ready to race.

Pros

• Exemplary chassis (especially up front)
• Exclusive racing equipment
• Breathtaking styling

Cons

• Throttle still lacks some precision
• Inconsistent engine brake