Finally there and ready to test: The all-new KTM RC 125

This week the new KTM RC 125 is presented in the Upper Austrian town Linz. Media representatives from all over Europe will arrive at the provincial capital to have a first ride on the all-new eighth-litre supersport bike.

91734_2014-08-03_KTM_RC_125-301.jpg_1024 91739_2014-08-03_KTM_RC_125-389.jpg_1024
<
>
KTM RC 125 Static © Sebas Romero

The design of the full-faired KTM RC 125 appears thrilling sporty, as if the bike has just left the Moto3 pit lane. With regard to engine technology the RC is based on the KTM 125 DUKE. The high-torque four-stroke single cylinder performs with 15hp (11kW) at 9500 revs, is equipped with fuel injection, regulated cat and six-gear transmission. Other technical ingredients are an OHC four-valve cylinder head, liquid cooling and a balance shaft against vibrations.

RC_stripped

KTM RC 125 stripped

Even for stability in all corners is taken care of. The orange steel trellis frame was modified for more sporting use and even more agility (sharper steering head angle, shorter trail and wheelbase), as well as a shorter range of springs and enlarged ground clearance. The shapely aluminium swing arm is absorbing an adjustable WP mono fork leg. With 43 mm the sturdy WP upside down fork features the same diameter like the KTM RC8 R. Fancy rims and wide tyres round out the chassis of the RC 125.

The cuneiform fairing with the twin headlights using small projector lamps is a design masterpiece. It is perfectly dividing the airstream and takes off the wind pressure from chest and arms. The front LED indicator lights are skilfully integrated into the mirror housings. Even running, rear, brake, rear indicators and license plate lights use modern and energy-saving LEDs.

91789_KTM_RC_125_Details_1024 91787_KTM_RC_125_Details_1024 91783_KTM_RC_125_Static_1024 91779_KTM_RC_125_Static_1024
<
>
KTM RC 125 Detail © Francesc Montero

Ergonomically designed bodywork, 10 litres tank, sport seat and clip-on handlebars help the rider to find the perfect and most comfortable sitting position and at the same time enables the rider to move freely around the machine. The multifunctional LCD dashboard displays are large selection of information from which the rider can choose: digital speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge and cooling temperature as well as fuel economy and remaining distance. Even an adjustable shift light is part of the package. A single, radially-mounted four-piston caliper biting down hard on the 300mm front disc ensures fierce deceleration. The RC 125 also receives the sophisticated BOSCH 9MB two-channel ABS system as standard. The silencer placed below contributes to mass centralization and supports the sporting handling.

That KTM is developing a new supersport model range of less than 400cc, was already known since last year´s EICMA, almost 10 month ago. Last year, the new RC 125, RC 200 and RC 390 were presented to the public for the first time. Now the RC 125 breaks the first ground and will be the first to be available at the dealers. The bigger engine models RC 200 and RC 390 will follow in near future. The RC range was developed in order to build attractive and lightweight sports bikes in the lower displacement range that are transmitting fascination due to supersport concept, high-tech equipment and sporting performance and stand out due to riding pleasure, outstanding reliability and a favourable price.

91757_sin_ttulo-336.jpg_1024 91759_sin_ttulo-392.jpg_1024 91741_2014-08-03_KTM_RC_125-83.jpg_1024 91766_sin_ttulo-444.jpg_1024
<
>
KTM RC 125 Country Road © Sebas Romero

Stay tuned – it´s worth it: Exclusively for the KTM BLOG stunt rider Rok Bagoroš will mount on the RC 125 during the media launch and describe his impressions on the new KTM supersport bike.

Photos: Francesc Montero, Sebas Romero, KTM