Meet KTM’s new track-only beast, the RC 8C

KUALA LUMPUR: With aesthetics and aerodynamics inspired by the iconic RC16, the track-only limited-edition KTM RC 8C just made its global debut. The hard-core racing motorcycle will be available in just 100 units worldwide. It is based on a “dedicated track chassis, giving the rider more feeling and making it easy to decimate the competition,” says KTM.

Design-wise, the racing beast gets aero winglets, front ram-air intake, carbon fibre components, along with compact dimensions. All these together make the bike’s dry weight equal to 140 kg. At the bike’s core lies an 889 cc LC8c DOHC 8 valve parallel-twin engine, sourced from the 890 Duke R. The motor kicks out a maximum power output of 129 PS and a peak torque of 101 Nm. The bike has a 1:1 power-to-weight ratio.

Other significant highlights of the 2021 KTM RC 8C are: 

• Dedicated racing exhaust with Akrapovič titanium muffler
• Bespoke frame made from 25CrMo4 steel tubular
• Dedicated airbox and racing air filter
• A quick-release fuel tank
• Lightweight Dymag wheels shod with Pirelli SC1 race slicks
• AIM MXS 1.2 RACE dashboard and data logger with GPS 
• 5-inch TFT display 

As for suspension, there are WP Apex Pro 7543 upside-down forks at the front and WP Apex Pro 7746 mono-shock with preload adjustability on the back. The braking duties are taken care of by dual 290 mm front discs with Brembo Stylema calipers and a hub-mounted 230 mm rear disc. The braking hardware also benefits from a Brembo 19RCS Corsa Corta radial master cylinder for better performance.

The KTM RC 8C bookings for the 100 units will commence from July 22, 2021, and the first 25 customers will get the opportunity to run at Jerez Circuit with KTM MotoGP test riders Dani Pedrosa and Mika Kalio. 

Also read: 100 units limited KTM Moto2 track bike teased