Engineered to be a bespoke, no-compromise track weapon, the KTM RC 8C is aimed at a special type of rider who lives with their elbow on the deck…
2023 KTM RC 8C
Engine: 889 cc DOHC Parallel twin
Transmission: 6 speed final drive chain
Power: 100 kW
Torque: 98 Nm @ 8,250 rpm
Dry weight: 142 kg
Seat height: 820 mm
Fuel capacity: 15.8 litres
Price: $56,900
KTM has just pulled the covers off their fresh 2023 KTM RC 8C, and it reveals a second generation track-focused monster boasting more performance, tech improvements – and more orange and matt black livery than is legal.
Like the RC16 MotoGP version of this bike, the RC 8C features aerodynamic carbon-fibre winglets co-existing with carbon Kevlar bodywork. Dry weight is down to 142kg, thanks to the new titanium diet in the form of a Akrapovic exhaust.
Exclusively hand built strictly for track use by Kramer Motorcycles, the 889cc LC8c parallel-twin engine now packs an extra 5.2 kW to produce 100 kW at 11,000rpm and 98Nm at 8250rpm. When fused to a reverse pattern 6 speed with PASC slipper clutch, you get a more-than-solid track performer minus the maintenance needs.
When you feel that bonus boost, you can thank the higher compression ratios, higher fuel pump pressures, and lighter titanium valves and rods. When you feel that extra squeeze around the corner, acknowledge the Pirelli SC1 slicks, race-spec Brembo callipers, and the softer WP Apex Pro forks and shocks.
Along with world class suspension, there’s also cornering traction control that uses a lean angle sensor to detect the side-to-side and forwards and backwards variations of the motorcycle. This ensures the rider looks good from all angles. More revamps include the update to the 5-inch TFT dash display and data logger. It now allows for endless data to be displayed, recorded, and uploaded, from lap times to engine stats, to favourite hobby lists.
It seems that KTM’s new version of their RC 8C track bike has proven just as popular as the first, with all 24 units allocated for Australia and New Zealand finding a home. The demand is strong with this one.
By BILL VARETIMIDIS
For the full article grab the May 2023 issue of MAXIM Australia from newsagents and convenience locations. Subscribe here.
