More power, less weight, upgraded electronics … and the first 30 buyers get to play with it on track in Valencia too.
The Austrian factory’s Moto2-inspired track bike is back for 2023, with another 200 models going into production.
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Revealed last year, the first generation RC 8C (which was inspired by KTM’s now defunct Moto2 chassis project) sold out in just a matter of minutes, and so it shouldn’t come as much of a surprise that KTM’s decided to go again for 2023 with a more powerful, even better equipped machine.
Developed in partnership with Kramer Motorcycles, it’s still powered by KTM’s much-loved LC8c inline twin engine – but for 2023 the RC 8C gets an additional 7bhp to play with, upping its peak power to a healthy 135hp (while torque’s an equally respectable 72lb-ft (98Nm) at 8250rpm). And when you take into account it tips the scales at just 142kg, the RC 8C actually has one of best power-to-weight ratios of any track-only sportbike around. No wonder it’s so popular.
KTM’s also made adjustments to the throttle response, engine braking, traction control, launch control and anti-wheelie control – in addition to fitting a new titanium Akrapovic exhaust system. It also gets a set of funky wings, which are clearly inspired by the firm’s race-winning RC16 concept bike.
With only 200 models available and a price tag of £34,999, KTM’s also offering some very exclusive goodies to sweeten the deal for the first 30 customers of the latest generation RC 8C. They’ll get the chance to ride the bike at the Circuito Ricardo Tormo in Valencia, get some track tuition from former Grand Prix riders, make use of a full KTM and WP Suspension technical crew, and get all their accommodation, food, and bike transportation taken care of.
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