SUPER SPORTS CAR TECHNOLOGY FOR THE 21st CENTURY

KTM X-Bow R

KTM X-Bow R

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Revolutionary. Puristic. Radical. In the form of the production version of the X-BOW, Austrian manufacturer KTM presented its interpretation of a super sports car for the 21st century in 2008. "We wanted to take Colin Chapman's idea of a spartan, lightweight sports car reduced to the bare essentials and transfer it into the new millennium - with as many technological innovations as possible," says KTM CEO Stefan Pierer. Together with the specialists at Italian sports car manufacturer Dallara, the composites experts Wethje, the think-tank KTM Technologies and engine partner Audi, what is probably the most exciting super sports car of our times was produced in only 18 months. The extraordinary styling came from Gerald Kiska and the team at Kiska Design, who created an iconic modern sports car."Ready to Race" - this not only applies to KTM motorcycles, but also to the X-BOW. When developing the "R", we focussed on improving both performance data and overall performance. Even more extreme, even faster and even more impressive. The result is quite outstanding. The KTM X-BOW R has been designed down to the very last detail as an uncompromising driving machine. Many of the conventional elements aimed purely at comfort have been omitted. Dispensing with a roof and the windscreen as well as the omission of air-conditioning and entertainment systems all takes a little getting used to. But it allows concentration on the most important aspect: the driving experience!
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Revolutionary. Puristic. Radical. In the form of the production version of the X-BOW, Austrian manufacturer KTM presented its interpretation of a super sports car for the 21st century in 2008. "We wanted to take Colin Chapman's idea of a spartan, lightweight sports car reduced to the bare essentials and transfer it into the new millennium - with as many technological innovations as possible," says KTM CEO Stefan Pierer. Together with the specialists at Italian sports car manufacturer Dallara, the composites experts Wethje, the think-tank KTM Technologies and engine partner Audi, what is probably the most exciting super sports car of our times was produced in only 18 months. The extraordinary styling came from Gerald Kiska and the team at Kiska Design, who created an iconic modern sports car."Ready to Race" - this not only applies to KTM motorcycles, but also to the X-BOW. When developing the "R", we focussed on improving both performance data and overall performance. Even more extreme, even faster and even more impressive. The result is quite outstanding. The KTM X-BOW R has been designed down to the very last detail as an uncompromising driving machine. Many of the conventional elements aimed purely at comfort have been omitted. Dispensing with a roof and the windscreen as well as the omission of air-conditioning and entertainment systems all takes a little getting used to. But it allows concentration on the most important aspect: the driving experience!
  1. Engine & Drivetrain
  2. Chassis
  3. Aerodynamics & Bodywork
  4. Safety
  5. Ergonomics & Comfort

01. Engine & Drivetrain

Transmission

Tried and tested in series production, but tuned optimally to the KTM X-BOW R: The manual 6-speed gearbox from Audi always has the right gear available. The Drexler limited slip differential that comes as standard guarantees optimum propulsion in every curve.

Graph of torque

The engine achieves its maximum torque of 420 Nm at an engine speed of only 3,200 rpm – thereby making, in the truest sense of the phrase, “very light work” of the KTM X-BOW R, which tips the scales at a mere 790 kg. The maximum power output of 300 hp is attained at 6,400 rpm.

Rear frame

The aluminium spaceframe is the central supporting element for the engine/gearbox assembly. It has been possible to lower the whole unit by 19 millimetres, thereby lowering the KTM X-BOW R’s already impressively low centre of gravity by another 15 millimetres. As a direct consequence, even greater lateral acceleration forces and even higher cornering speeds are possible.

Shift lever with waterproof boot

Sporty gear lever with water-resistant shift boot.

High performance cooler

The generously dimensioned, high-performance radiators on the KTM X-BOW are a match for any task. As a result, neither the engine cooling system nor that for the charge-air cooler need to be enlarged for use in racing.

Performance package

The Performance Pack 1 was especially developed for the KTM X-BOW. The pack includes lowering of the engine, an optimised drivetrain mounting and a catalytic converter with modified geometry. Lowering the engine by 19 mm lowers the vehicle’s centre of gravity. Furthermore, the torque stay is attached to the monocoque, thereby significantly reducing the effect of engine movement on handling. This makes the KTM X-BOW much smoother when changing positions of the accelerator pedal. The modified geometry requires a new catalytic converter.

Muffler

This much sound is a must: The sports exhaust system is simple to assemble and coordinates the tone of the vehicle with its spectacular appearance.

Transmission

Tried and tested in series production, but tuned optimally to the KTM X-BOW R: The manual 6-speed gearbox from Audi always has the right gear available. The Drexler limited slip differential that comes as standard guarantees optimum propulsion in every curve.

Graph of torque

The engine achieves its maximum torque of 420 Nm at an engine speed of only 3,200 rpm – thereby making, in the truest sense of the phrase, “very light work” of the KTM X-BOW R, which tips the scales at a mere 790 kg. The maximum power output of 300 hp is attained at 6,400 rpm.

Rear frame

The aluminium spaceframe is the central supporting element for the engine/gearbox assembly. It has been possible to lower the whole unit by 19 millimetres, thereby lowering the KTM X-BOW R’s already impressively low centre of gravity by another 15 millimetres. As a direct consequence, even greater lateral acceleration forces and even higher cornering speeds are possible.

Shift lever with waterproof boot

Sporty gear lever with water-resistant shift boot.

High performance cooler

The generously dimensioned, high-performance radiators on the KTM X-BOW are a match for any task. As a result, neither the engine cooling system nor that for the charge-air cooler need to be enlarged for use in racing.

Performance package

The Performance Pack 1 was especially developed for the KTM X-BOW. The pack includes lowering of the engine, an optimised drivetrain mounting and a catalytic converter with modified geometry. Lowering the engine by 19 mm lowers the vehicle’s centre of gravity. Furthermore, the torque stay is attached to the monocoque, thereby significantly reducing the effect of engine movement on handling. This makes the KTM X-BOW much smoother when changing positions of the accelerator pedal. The modified geometry requires a new catalytic converter.

Muffler

This much sound is a must: The sports exhaust system is simple to assemble and coordinates the tone of the vehicle with its spectacular appearance.

02. Chassis

Monocoque

The KTM X-BOW is the world’s first production vehicle to boast a monocoque made completely from composite carbon fibre material – a trailblazing and pioneering technology, previously reserved exclusively for racing vehicles.

Suspension

On the front axle, the pushrod chassis - derived directly from the world of formula racing - features compression damping with high and low-speed settings as well as adjustable rebound damping. All these setting options are also available on the rear axle, although here the spring/damper unit is directly attached to the wheel mounting.

Performance suspension

The performance suspension from WP has adjustable rebound and compression damping (high and low speed).

Springs of WP suspension

Together with chassis and test-drive guru Loris Bicocchi, WP Suspension was involved in developing the springs and dampers for the KTM X-BOW from the very beginning. This expertise and the accumulated experience with the set-up of the KTM X-BOW are perceptible in the "R" from the very first moment.

Racing Wishbone

All bushings are made of polyurethane instead of rubber. Thus not only improves the channeling, but also reduces the friction considerably. A special finish of the bearings secures their permanent greasing and free movement. The improved elasto-kinematic leads to a more precise response and a more accurate handling.

Michelin Pilot Sport 3

The innovative “Green Power Compound” ensures excellent grip even on wet surfaces, while also providing low fuel consumption and high mileage. This technology and its extraordinary properties have proven their worth at the very highest level with a total of 12 consecutive victories at the 24-hour race in LeMans.

5-Bolt wheel set

The KTM aluminium wheel set guarantees a sporty impression. The set comprises 2x R17 front wheels and 2x R18 rear wheels.

Monocoque

The KTM X-BOW is the world’s first production vehicle to boast a monocoque made completely from composite carbon fibre material – a trailblazing and pioneering technology, previously reserved exclusively for racing vehicles.

Suspension

On the front axle, the pushrod chassis - derived directly from the world of formula racing - features compression damping with high and low-speed settings as well as adjustable rebound damping. All these setting options are also available on the rear axle, although here the spring/damper unit is directly attached to the wheel mounting.

Performance suspension

The performance suspension from WP has adjustable rebound and compression damping (high and low speed).

Springs of WP suspension

Together with chassis and test-drive guru Loris Bicocchi, WP Suspension was involved in developing the springs and dampers for the KTM X-BOW from the very beginning. This expertise and the accumulated experience with the set-up of the KTM X-BOW are perceptible in the "R" from the very first moment.

Racing Wishbone

All bushings are made of polyurethane instead of rubber. Thus not only improves the channeling, but also reduces the friction considerably. A special finish of the bearings secures their permanent greasing and free movement. The improved elasto-kinematic leads to a more precise response and a more accurate handling.

Michelin Pilot Sport 3

The innovative “Green Power Compound” ensures excellent grip even on wet surfaces, while also providing low fuel consumption and high mileage. This technology and its extraordinary properties have proven their worth at the very highest level with a total of 12 consecutive victories at the 24-hour race in LeMans.

5-Bolt wheel set

The KTM aluminium wheel set guarantees a sporty impression. The set comprises 2x R17 front wheels and 2x R18 rear wheels.

03. Aerodynamics & Bodywork

Diffusor

Air flows optimally into the rear diffuser, which ensures distribution of pressure on the underbody thanks to its asymmetric design. It generates a large part of the downforce.

Underbody

One look underneath the KTM X-BOW R reveals the three-piece, completely flat, racing underbody derived from formula racing vehicles.

Engine cover

The large air vents directly over the mid-mounted engine not only ensure perfect ventilation, but also contribute significantly to the look of the rear bodywork elements on the KTM X-BOW R.

Bonnets

The view from the front also surprises with an incredible look: The narrow headlamp surrounds and the bonnets, which are attached over the front splitter at a striking angle, make the whole front end of the KTM X-BOW R appear even brawnier.

Wheel cover

The fenders, which are made from synthetic material, are optimised in terms of aerodynamics.

Diffusor

Air flows optimally into the rear diffuser, which ensures distribution of pressure on the underbody thanks to its asymmetric design. It generates a large part of the downforce.

Underbody

One look underneath the KTM X-BOW R reveals the three-piece, completely flat, racing underbody derived from formula racing vehicles.

Engine cover

The large air vents directly over the mid-mounted engine not only ensure perfect ventilation, but also contribute significantly to the look of the rear bodywork elements on the KTM X-BOW R.

Bonnets

The view from the front also surprises with an incredible look: The narrow headlamp surrounds and the bonnets, which are attached over the front splitter at a striking angle, make the whole front end of the KTM X-BOW R appear even brawnier.

Wheel cover

The fenders, which are made from synthetic material, are optimised in terms of aerodynamics.

04. Safety

Roll bar

In the event of a rollover, optimum protection is guaranteed by the aluminium roll bars integrated in the monocoque. They withstand loads of up to 2.5 times the weight of the vehicle.

Seat belts

Driver and passenger are protected by a four-point safety belt from Schroth, which is used in racing.

Brembo brakes

To counteract its extreme driving power, the KTM X-BOW R offers the same level of braking power. The Brembo brake system employs a four-piston, fixed-calliper brake on the front axle, with an internally ventilated, slotted disc measuring 305 mm in diameter. The rear unit is a two-piston, fixed-calliper brake with a diameter of 262 mm. The KTM X-BOW R therefore only needs 32.9 meters to brake from 100 km/h to 0.

Touring brake pads

Whether it be inner-city traffic, out on country or mountain roads, the touring brake pads provide constant braking performance in all temperature ranges, while conserving the discs. They also reduce braking noise. At 0.49 μ, the coefficient of friction is mid-range.

Crashbox

The crash box at the nose of the vehicle provides additional safety. Thanks to its carbon-aluminium sandwich construction, it even complies with the strict safety regulations of the FIA GT and Formula 3.

Technological leadership

The KTM X-BOW is the world’s first production vehicle to boast a monocoque made completely from composite carbon fibre material – a trailblazing and pioneering technology, previously reserved exclusively for racing vehicles.

Roll bar

In the event of a rollover, optimum protection is guaranteed by the aluminium roll bars integrated in the monocoque. They withstand loads of up to 2.5 times the weight of the vehicle.

Seat belts

Driver and passenger are protected by a four-point safety belt from Schroth, which is used in racing.

Brembo brakes

To counteract its extreme driving power, the KTM X-BOW R offers the same level of braking power. The Brembo brake system employs a four-piston, fixed-calliper brake on the front axle, with an internally ventilated, slotted disc measuring 305 mm in diameter. The rear unit is a two-piston, fixed-calliper brake with a diameter of 262 mm. The KTM X-BOW R therefore only needs 32.9 meters to brake from 100 km/h to 0.

Touring brake pads

Whether it be inner-city traffic, out on country or mountain roads, the touring brake pads provide constant braking performance in all temperature ranges, while conserving the discs. They also reduce braking noise. At 0.49 μ, the coefficient of friction is mid-range.

Crashbox

The crash box at the nose of the vehicle provides additional safety. Thanks to its carbon-aluminium sandwich construction, it even complies with the strict safety regulations of the FIA GT and Formula 3.

Technological leadership

The KTM X-BOW is the world’s first production vehicle to boast a monocoque made completely from composite carbon fibre material – a trailblazing and pioneering technology, previously reserved exclusively for racing vehicles.

05. Ergonomics & Comfort

Multifunctional steering wheel

The infrared-controlled, detachable multi-function steering wheel is adjustable in height and depth.

Ergonomic seats

The seat shells from KTM’s exclusive partner Recaro form the ergonomic basis for the stunning driving adventure in the KTM X-BOW R.

Shift and handbreak lever

Lies perfectly in the hand: The CNC-machined, anodised aluminium gear and hand brake levers in an exclusive KTM X-BOW design.

Multifunctional steering wheel

The infrared-controlled, detachable multi-function steering wheel is adjustable in height and depth.

Ergonomic seats

The seat shells from KTM’s exclusive partner Recaro form the ergonomic basis for the stunning driving adventure in the KTM X-BOW R.

Shift and handbreak lever

Lies perfectly in the hand: The CNC-machined, anodised aluminium gear and hand brake levers in an exclusive KTM X-BOW design.

Technical Details

Engine

  • Transmission 6-speed transmission, manual
  • Displacement 1984 cm³
  • Design 2-liter-TFSI-engine
  • Max. torque 420 Nm @ 3,200 rpm
  • Fuel consumption 8.3 l/100 km
  • CO2 emissions 189 g/km, EURO 6
  • Valves 16, DOHC
  • Power 220 kW (300 hp) @ 6.400 rpm

Chassis

  • Height of centre of gravity 380 mm
  • Tyres front/rear 205/40 R17 / 255/35 R18
  • Weight (without fuel) 790 kg
  • Static weight distribution (front/rear) 37:63
  • Turning circle 10.8 m
  • Tank capacity (approx.) 40 l
  • Track front/rear 1.644 / 1.624 mm
  • Aerodynamic downforce 200 km/h 193 kg
  • Aerodynamic downforce 100 km/h 48 kg
  • Deceleration 100-0 km/h 32.9 m
  • Dimensions 3738 x 1915 x 1202 mm
  • Power transmission Rear-wheel drive with limited slip differential
  • Lateral acceleration >1.5 g (road tyres)
  • Acceleration 0-100 km/h 3.9 s
  • Maximum speed 231 km/h
  • Wheelbase 2430 mm