KTM RC 8C breaks cover

The KTM 890 Duke R's engine housed in a bespoke chassis, along with top-shelf race-grade cycle parts, is what makes the KTM RC 8C a cutting edge motorcycle. Sadly, it's limited to only 100 units.

While we wait for the updated smaller capacity Supersports – the 2021 RC200 and the 2021 RC390 – to be launched in India, KTM has unveiled a cutting edge track-only motorcycle, the RC 8C, in the international markets.

The KTM RC 8C is limited to 100 units and will go on sale in the European market on July 22. The prices are yet to be announced, but KTM will start accepting the pre-orders from 16:00hrs CEST on July 22.

Speaking of the RC 8C, KTM has used the LC8C 889cc parallel-twin engine from the 890 Duke R and have built a bespoke steel tubular chassis around it. The new prototype frame has been nick-named the 25CrMo4. 

To complement the chassis, KTM has employed hand-built 43mm light-weight WP APEX PRO 7543 closed cartridge upside-down forks at the front. A WP APEX PRO 7746 shock with preload adjuster takes charge of matter at the rear. The suspension units on both ends are fully adjustable and have been assembled by the same department that builds and maintains the suspension of the KTM RC16 MotoGP motorcycle.

The body panels have been made out of carbon Kevlar-reinforced GRP – inspired by the KTM RC16 – which lets KTM shed some weight off the motorcycle. The lightweight Dymag forged aluminium wheels are shod with Pirelli SC1 racing slicks.

Thanks to lightweight components, the motorcycle tips the scale at 140kg (dry). With a power output of 126bhp and 101Nm, KTM claims that the RC 8C has a near 1:1 power-to-weight ratio. KTM has given a fair share of attention to the respiration of the motorcycle. The (racing-grade) airbox has been reworked and now gets an all-new air filter. The revised exhaust system gets an Akrapovič titanium muffler.

The front-wheel features two floating 290mm brake discs with aluminium rotors fasten by titanium screws. The rear 230mm disc has been mounted directly on the wheel hub. KTM has opted for Brembo Stylema front brake callipers with Brembo 19RCS Corsa Corta radial master cylinder, with the tech used in KTM’s MotoGP motorcycle, which lets the rider set the precise ‘bite point' suitable for his/her riding.

The onboard computer is an AIM MXS 1.2 RACE data logger, with an integrated GPS function. All information is displayed on a 5-inch TFT display with integrated data recording, which can be analysed in AIM Race Studio.

KTM is also offering a one-off opportunity to join the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing test team to its 25 customers of the RC 8C. The event includes a track-riding experience with Dani Pedrosa and Mika Kalli at Circuito de Jerez. All 25 customers of the RC 8C will receive KTM’s race track package. The package includes an extra set of Dymag wheels (Front and Rear), an extra set of front and rear brake discs, front and rear paddock stands, tire warmers, and a KTM race carpet.

Also Read:

KTM 250 Adventure gets a substantial price cut

KTM 250 Adventure vs Royal Enfield Himalayan – Comparison

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oKRnMZwL1N0