rc8 is being put to pasture.

I read the news that KTM is going to stop developing the rc8 and putting their effort into the rc16 v4. I will miss the rc8, even though I've never owned one. To me the ducati 916 and rc8 were some of the most beautiful superbikes ever designed. But I'm glad I have the rc8 motor in my super duke. Rc8 you will be missed!

yep:

http://www.fasterandfaster.net/2014/08/ ... ch-v4.html

Sad day, I demo'ed a 2012 RC8R like I Stoled it. Road it through my back yard twisties. Was ready to trade in my 08SDR untill I found out about the 1290r. It carved like a knife through tight corners. And pulled out of corners very much like the 1290R. Plus the styling was like no other. And to me it had great front end feel on the street. And probably the best ergonomics of any sport bike ever made. I'm sure Ktm will build a street version of the RC16 in good time. They are in Business to sell motorcycle, that's why they race.

It will be missed.

Not sure about this one. Wouldn't be difficult to put the 1290 in a sports bike but the problem is it won't be able to race in classes with 1000cc bikes. They need an engine that can compete. I really hope they eventually bring a detuned V4 to the road market in another sportsbike. An RC8 with a 180+ real rear wheel HP V4 engine is very appealing.

I think KTM are dreaming with this one they expect to sell 100 units per year?
They need to make a moto GP version and a street version and forget trying to sell a volume based specialized race bike.
This could be the nail in the coffin for Mr KTM.