Post by Crossbones Dennis on Dec 19, 2009 5:25:15 GMT -6
From a press release issued by KTM...
Murrieta, CA – KTM North America, Inc. concluded a successful two-week launch of its 2010 street model line to media and dealer members at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca with the help of track day partner Skip Barber.
KTM North America, Inc. has made a strategic move to increase its presence in the street bike segment starting with adding a new leader to their initiative with the announcement of Brad Hagi as Vice President of the new street bike division and weeks later announcing 6 new street models to its already powerful line up.
New to the US for 2010 are the KTM 690 Duke R, 990 SM T, 990 SM R, 1190 RC8 R, 1190 RC8 R IDM Red Bull Limited Edition and the 1190 RC8 R Akrapovic Limited Edition. Media and dealer members were given the opportunity to ride these new bikes around the legendary race track, Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. The first half of the day the riders went through a brief introduction of the Skip Barber Superbike School Powered by KTM with lead instructor Jeff Haney. The second half of the day was spent putting in as many laps as they could on the new models.
Starting with the KTM 690 Duke R, this 690cc displacement single-cylinder bike makes an impressive 70hp and is equipped with all of the KTM ‘R’ model upgrades including upgraded suspension with race settings, orange powder-coated frame, carbon front fender and more.
If longer rides are in your future, hop aboard the new KTM 990 SM T. This popular European Supermoto motorcycle is equipped to travel with stock Brembo brakes, detachable soft touring bags, touring windshield, 5 gallon fuel tank and a comfortable seat for extra long trips.
The KTM 990 SM R is the ultimate large displacement Supermoto bike which is as much fun on the race track as it is on the road. This model features upgraded suspension, monobloc Brembo front brakes, forged Marchesini aluminium wheels, and KTM ‘R’ optics including the orange powder-coated frame, ‘R’ graphics, and blacked out components.
The showstopper at the event had to be the release of the KTM 1190 RC8 R and its two limited editions. This 1195cc, 75º V-twin, 170hp, ‘R’ model includes a host of engine upgrades. The engineers started with super light pistons and increased the compression ratio, reworked the combustion chamber, and added adjustable camshafts. Its chassis features a revised geometry, race spec suspension and adjustable pegs, shifter, sub frame and ride height.
Excitement heightened once the two 1190 RC8 R limited edition bikes were revealed. These bikes will come in the IDM Red Bull and Akrapovic Edition. Both models come with a limited edition number plate, special edition body work, and an optional closed course race kit which includes an Akrapovic titanium exhaust system, thinner head gaskets, improved air filter and a tool for adjusting the camshafts for race specifications.
Returning for 2010, is the 690 Enduro R, 690 Duke, 690 SMC, 990 Super Duke R, 990 Adventure, 990 Adventure R and 1190 RC8. To learn more about these models please go to www.ktmusa.com or visit your nearest KTM dealer.
