Motorcycle specifications KTMSUPERDUKE 990 R 2008 An Austrian at full speed

a KTM roadster is mean, period! But if you're the kind of person who likes to add a little spice to the spicy sauce, there's an even nastier version, and it's called R at Katoche. The Superduke got a facelift in 2007; the R version follows suit. It incorporates all its evolutions, including engine improvements, and perpetuates the sporty recipe that suits it so well. While the normal Superduke has calmed down a little in terms of its front end, the R is even more tenacious and incisive: with a reduced caster (93.9) and spine angle (22.7°), a seat height of 865 mm and masses more evenly distributed at the front, the roadster is a ball of nerves when it comes to steering. Fortunately, a steering damper has been installed between the CNC-machined fork crown and the frame to play a little diplomacy. Of course, the orange color on the tubular steel trellis isn't just provocative. It means that an R model is really more aggressive.

while the 2007 model, which was extensively redesigned, left the boiler untouched, this has changed dramatically for 2008. The 75° twin spits out 12 more horsepower - 10% more power for a total of 132 hp, 900 rpm more revs and half a kilo of torque added at the bottom end. That's it, the Superduke R is even meaner. But why? Because... it's got new connecting rods and pistons, bigger titanium valves in the intake (from 38 to 41 mm), thicker throttle bodies; and as for vocals, the standard Akrapovic exhausts do the job, and they're top-notch. With a larger fuel tank since 2007, the fun will last longer, and the new radial brake calipers will keep your forearms calm under hard braking.

exclusive machine? You'd think... If the even more aggressive deco and carbon parts don't dispel your doubts, the single-seat design, optimized suspension settings and the fact that small riders are not allowed on board will convince you. Although it costs the price of a hypersport, this machine delivers a different kind of thrill right in your face.

M.B - Manufacturer's photos