KTM introduced the track-only RC 8C back in 2021 with all 100 units were quickly snapped up by customers in less than five minutes.
- The RC 8C gets reworked engine which now produces 135hp.
- Features carbon fiber, GRP and Kevlar bodywork similar to KTM’s RC16 MotoGP racebike.
However, the hype around the specially-built race bike was over the roof and triggered the Austrian manufacturer to come out with a second version for 2023.
Limited to just 200 units, the 2023 model were sold out in a blink with every unit were sold out in just two minutes despite having 100 units more than the first released.
In addition, KTM also bags nearly GBP8 million in the process.
At a glance, there isn’t much to set the 2023 RC 8C apart with the 2021 edition.
Aside from the black finish replacing the orang paint, the 2023 RC 8C continue to feature carbon fiber, GRP and Kevlar bodywork that mirrors the KTM RC16 MotoGP racebike.
Also carried from the original version is the handmade chromoly steel trellis-style frame built by Kramer Motorcycles.
However, the 2023 RC 8C gets reworked engine with LC8c 889cc twin powertrain now makes 135hp from the previous 128hp. This is achieved by equipping a new titanium intake and exhaust valves, titanium connecting rods, larger 48mm throttle body and an increased in compression ratio.
KTM also added new oil cooler and revised the crankcase-balancer shaft while also removing the upper balancer in the cylinder head.
In addition, thanks to a new titanium Akrapovic race exhaust, the 2023 KTM RC 8C tip the scale at just 142kg.
The 2023 RC 8C also gets a revised WP Apex Pro suspension with the firm claimed to improve rider confidence on the track.
Similar to the 2021 RC 8C, the new track bike also allows for a host of adjustment and fine-tuning on both the engine and handling.
That said, the new AiM MXS 1.2 Race dash allows access to the bike’s traction control settings, throttle mapping and engine-braking. The RC 8C triple-clamp offset can also be altered with both the bars and pegs can be adjusted.
Braking is done with a top-of-the-line Brembo Stylema 4-piston radial-mounted callipers regulated via a Brembo 19RCS Corsa Corta master cylinder.
Other notable features include forged alloy Dymags wheels with Pirelli Diablo SC1 slick and GP shift with quickshifter function.
