KTM goes solo on Audi-powered X-Bow project

Austrian motorcycle builder KTM will reveal its finished X-Bow (crossbow) roadster at the Geneva Motor Show in March, according to the U.K.'s evo magazine. Originally a collaboration with Audi, the project is now in KTM's hands alone, the report said.



Audi is said to have insisted that if the X-Bow was to wear the four-ringed badge, it would have to come with airbags and other safety features. KTM was unwilling to compromise on "the spirit" of the roadster, so it elected to complete the project alone. A 2.0-liter Audi engine and gearbox are still at the heart of the X-Bow.

A choice of either a six-speed manual or DSG gearbox will be given. Power will range from 220 to 300 horsepower -- impressive for a vehicle that weighs just over 1500 lbs.

The X-Bow has no windshield, and instead will come with specially designed helmets, intended to offer shelter from the elements rather than full crash protection.