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Not often a bike really blows my mind, pHHFFFTTT

was at Factory racing getting some spares when I was offered a ride on a KTM 1190 R

THIS THING IS INSANE

The most intuitive bike I have ridden ever.

Everything about this bike feels just right, the balance, the gear changes, the power. it is incredible.

I took it around the streets in "street" mode first. well behaved, so controllable and even under 4 thou of a 12 thou available, you still have this amazing power that just is available from anywhere. Brakes excellent, balance brilliant.

Now onto the highway, snapping the throttle from stop to stop. This bike is totally insane. The RC8 derived engine thinks it is a sport bike. I took the first loop on to the highway, looked down and saw 180KMH. WAAhhgg never thought I was going that quick and the bike is on rails in the corners. I checked later (w rated tyres ). Sport bikes do not reach 200kmh as quick as this bike. I was on a highway with traffic so I wound my neck in and did not push it, but man it made me feel like I should just because I could.

Insane insane insane.

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It is beautiful as well!!!!!

Awesome. I love KTM and was concerned that they were going the luxo-barge route with this one (vs. their minimalist 990 Adventure) Glad to hear that they got it right!

You know me, I am never one to heap praise where it is not warranted. the guys were telling me it will do 270kmh. 270 on a DUALIE, that is insane, but I can believe it.

Electronics are really good, you can change modes on the fly, ABS can be on road, off road or off. Screen is good, had very little buffeting at the speed limit plus VAT. I could get my toes down and flat foot with half an arse off. Comfy ergos. Sho I could go on and I only had it for half an hour.

I've always wanted to give a KTM a try. I'm just a sucker for orange ofc. But it's good to know they are making great bikes!

Saw a KTM RC8 parked at a local shopping center this afternoon. Big KTM street bikes are pretty rare around here -- although there's a local KTM dealer, they only carry the dirt bikes. Probably the first time I've seen a RC8 up close and in person.

If I had the money, an RC8 would be my track bike. Clunky first gear, but the bike is outstanding