GENEVA MOTOR SHOW: New KTM X-Bow
Motorcycle company unleashes X-Bow 2.0, a mildly modified version of its madcap GTI-powered open-wheelerAustrian motorcycle maker KTM has revealed first images of an updated version of its manic X-Bow, differentiated by an awkward looking windscreen/visor.
The light-weight two-seat Lotus Exige rival will have its global premiere at the Geneva motor show next week.
It's clear that KTM is trying something a little different to attract new customers to its half-motorcycle, half-car creation by adding a wraparound windscreen (and in doing so subtracting visual appeal).
The new canopy replaces a tiny 70mm-high 'windshield' and there is also talk of a small roof unit that would ensure complete wet weather protection.
The road-legal, track-focussed open-wheel sports car features bare-bones body work, focussing on keeping weight to a minimum and grip to maximum.
Previous KTM X-Bow models have been powered by 2.0-litre turbocharged Volkswagen engines similar to the one found in the Golf GTI and tuned to produce power outputs of anywhere between 147kW/280Nm to 220kW/400Nm in the X-Bow R model.
First seen at the 2008 Geneva motor show, the X-Bow is still the only car that KTM builds, and earlier versions of the compact giant-killer tipped the scales at less than 800kg and featured 17-inch front and 18-inch rear alloy wheels.
Big Brembo brakes ensured stomach-churning stopping power and gearbox options comprised six-speed manual and DSG auto cog-swappers.
The ultra-lightweight machine has previously accelerated from 0-100km/h in less than four seconds, though there is talk this new model may be a more affordable, slightly less insane vehicle designed to drive to the racetrack - not be transported there.
It's likely the new model will run the same 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine from Volkswagen, particularly as most of the car's body and chassis elements appear to be unchanged.
A rare sight in Australia, the KTM X-Bow has been part of the famous Race of Champions event since 2008 and support races at selected rounds of the DTM touring car championship - Germany’s equivalent of V8 Supercars.
It's not clear if X-Bow models will be offered in Australia in future. It's understood that KTM Australia had previously expressed an interest in bringing the vehicle here for around $80,000, but has not yet managed to put together a viable business case.
For our full coverage head to motoring.com.au for the latest Geneva motor show news
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