Fast and competitive riders spoke and KTM listened. The KTM RC 8C, a purpose built, handcrafted and track specific “tool”, was built last year. For 2023, the company has dropped the watch faces. The new model has been revised keeping the specifications on the whetstone for an even sharper READY TO RACE profile.
The second generation of the KTM RC 8C needed much more than a fresh coat of paint and an aero package. As motorcyclists and racers quickly embraced the concept, KTM was again interested in raising the performance threshold. As a result, the 2023 version features a radically upgraded LC8c engine built specifically for the track, upgraded electronic features, even more weight savings and a host of high-quality components to keep the bike competitive.
Performance, durability and all-round capability: these are the top priorities of KTM’s dedicated R&D team for the KTM RC 8C 2023. Maximum torque of 98Nm at 8,250rpm) is achieved by versions. modifications such as new, lighter titanium settings and connecting rods, along with two piston rings (to fine-tune the oscillating mass), higher compression ratio, larger throttle body and fuel pump /pressure is boosted. Increased clutch preload, removal of the top balancer and cranking balancer shaft adjustments have increased durability, and an additional PANKL oil cooler contributes to thermal stability.
The dry weight of the KTM RC 8C 2023 has been optimized down to just 142kg and with the great flexibility of the CrMo4 steel frame, it offers a prototype feel to successfully strike the interior lines before any Which supercar? Measures like the all-new Akrapovic titanium exhaust system have contributed to the slimming, but the sharper feel is enhanced by improved tweaks from the latest WP PRO COMPONENTS settings. WP APEX PRO fork and shock absorber are now softer; increased comfort, exposure and confidence.
Once again in partnership with Krämer Motorcycles for production, the 2023 KTM RC 8C is now one of the company’s most visible racing icons: full of energy and intent. Whether the rider is the next Brad Binder looking for practice or the next Red Bull MotoGP rookie en route to Grand Prix stardom, refined electronics mean any control setting. Anything from traction, mapping and engine braking can tailor the KTM RC 8C 2023 to suit your level of ability (or ambition). Race bikes can be started in several ways; from the adjustable steering head to the deflection of the CNC trimmer, the throttle response and the articulation from the unbeatable Brembo Stylema brake calipers and the RCS19 Corsa Corta master cylinder.
An innovative dash with GPS data logger records lap attempts while KTM RC16-derived handlebar switches provide full control for the left thumbstick of the rider while the left foot presses in the reverse pattern of the QUICKSHIFTER+ race.
As a final reminder that the KTM RC 8C 2023 is for racers and born of a company with a racing soul, fin use and aerodynamics are directly correlated with the success of the show. MotoGP™ program where the KTM RC16 has won seven Grands Prix in just six years on the top shelf. Downforce and efficiency when braking and accelerating are some of the benefits. If competitors and followers are fast enough to catch up to the 2023 release of the KTM RC 8C, they can’t help but be impressed by the menacing black color that speaks to “speed” and “exclusivity”. Project in a nutshell.
To get the wheels rolling in the best (and fastest) way, the official “handover” of KTM RC 8C 2023 will be toasted by a very special race day for 30 customers at Circuito Ricardo Tormo in Valencia on April 26. Selected, first-come, first-served locations can be guaranteed with former Grand Prix drivers providing track lessons and KTM and WP’s full suspension engineering team ready to spin. New bike set number at the venue of the Grand Prix 14 turns. Accommodation, food, logistics of transporting bicycles from Austria to Spain and then to local dealers are all taken care of. It’s the complete factory rider experience!
2023 KTM RC 8C technical highlights
// Revised LC8c DOHC inline twin cylinder engine with titanium components and 7 hp performance increase to 135 hp at 11,000 RPM
// Adjustable throttle response, traction/launch/anti-wheelie control and engine braking adjustment
// New titanium Akrapovic exhaust system helping contribute to light 142 kg dry weight
// Fresh WP PRO COMPONENTS hardware and new settings for optimized feel and stability at higher performance levels
// High quality Brembo brake system Stylema and Corsa Costa master cylinder
// Racing parts: Rims, chain, carbon front fender, CNC triple clamp, handlebar switches, new AIM tacho dashboard, race gearbox shifting patten, air box and air filter and parts prone to crash damage can be quickly replaced
// KTM RC16-derived aerodynamics and razor shape black graphics with distinctive orange frame
// Pirelli Diablo racing tires
Only 200 editions of KTM RC 8C 2023 are equipped with smooth tires. Each model will come with a special serial number stamped on the triple clamp. Orders can only be placed through the dedicated page on ktm.com.