KTM RC 8C Preview

KTM has revealed the limited-edition, track-only RC 8C, a bike that promises to be a whole lot of fun for those who enjoy turning a lap or two. There will be only 100 units produced worldwide, with each one hand-built for track duty.

The machine is powered by the same parallel twin found in the 890 Duke R, offering 128 hp and 74 pound-feet torque. Plenty of pull considering the bike will weigh just over 300 pounds. Most of the internals remain the same as those offered in the 890 Duke R, making it easier for owners to source replacement parts when needed, but a few items are changed. The intake, for instance, is updated with a new airbox and Twin Air filter combination to improve throttle response and airflow. The bike also features a race-spec exhaust system built by Kramer Motorcycles, which utilizes an Akrapovič titanium muffler.

The mill bolts into the light and stiff chromoly steel tube trellis frame, made specifically for the track. It’s suspended by a WP Apex Pro 7543 fork and WP Apex Pro 7746 shock. The fork has an internal reservoir and cartridge system developed for racing, giving riders finer ability to tune settings. The shock is similarly up-spec, also with fully adjustable settings, including high/low-speed compression and rebound adjustability. A WP Apex Pro 7117 steering damper is also included.

Braking comes by way of a top-shelf Brembo setup. There are two Stylema calipers and dual 290mm floating discs at the front and a two-piston Brembo caliper gripping a 230mm floating disc at the rear. A Brembo 19RCS Corsa Corta radial master cylinder takes design and function from the unit used in MotoGP, allowing the rider to calibrate the brake’s bite point to their personal tastes through three different settings.

The bike rolls on lightweight Dymag UP7X forged aluminum wheels and utilizes Pirelli Diablo Superbike slicks. The wheels are designed to be released quickly, without having to disassemble the brakes. The slim bodywork is also on a quick-release system and includes RC16-inspired winglets for enhanced stability. Since this bike is likely to inspire riders to push the limits, KTM also includes a number of crash-protection upgrades as well. These include crash pads on the frame, fork, and swingarm.

The fuel tank is integrated into the seat unit, aiding in mass centralization. It also features a click-on fuel line connector to make draining the tank faster and easier.

It’s also kitted out with plenty of race tech, including the full-factory AiM MXS 1.2 Race dashboard with datalogger and GPS functionality. All the info is presented on a 5-inch TFT display. The data can be analyzed using the AiM Race Studio at no extra cost, so riders can look at everything from track speed, lap times, throttle position, rpm and gear, engine stats, track position, ECU model, oil pressure, and more.

The ergonomics are also easily adjusted to suit a variety of riders. The CNC-machined footrest holders offer more than 2.5 inches of height adjustment across three steps. The CNC-machined handlebar clamps have interchangeable tubes and laser-engraved markings to ensure settings can easily be replicated. The headstock, fork offset, ride height, and seat height are all adjustable as well.

Head to KTM’s RC 8C site to get on the waiting list for the bike.

In the meanwhile, check out more views of KTM’s RC 8C below.