Limited Production 2023 KTM RC 8C – First Look

KTM announced updates for its RC 8C sportbike, including a reworked, more powerful engine, a new exhaust, updated electronics, and the latest WP suspension. Produced once more with the help of Krämer Motorcycles, the RC 8C will have a limited run of 200 numbered units, with a suggested retail price of US$39,599.

The most significant updates are with the 889 cc engine, with new, lightweight titanium valves and connecting rods, plus forged pistons using a new two-ring system (versus the previous three piston rings). The pistons are now lighter, reducing oscillating masses, while also allowing KTM to increase the rev limit to 12,000 rpm.

Other engine changes include a higher compression ratio (14:1 versus 13.5:1), reduced wall thickness, a larger throttle body (48mm versus 46 mm), and new chain-driven camshafts that are now assembled instead of forged.

With the addition of a new Akrapovič titanium exhaust, the KTM RC 8C now claims an output of 135 hp at 11,000 rpm, an increase of 7 hp over the 2022 version. The 2023 RC 8C does sacrifice a bit of torque, now peaking at a claimed 72.3 lb-ft. at 8,250 rpm, down from the previously claimed 74.5 lb-ft.

The 2023 RC 8C has two throttle response maps. PW1 is designed for dry conditions, offering more direct and responsive feedback. The softer PW2 setting is for wet or degraded grip conditions. The traction control system is new, with a choice of settings from 0 (off) to a 9. A two-level engine brake control is also new.

The braking system is unchanged, with twin Brembo Stylema calipers up front, a two-piston caliper at the back, and a Brembo 19RCS Corsa Corta master cylinder that offers a choice of three different bite points. In another effort to reduce weight, the calipers are fastened with titanium screws.

Other highlights include a claimed 313 pound dry weight, a revamped dash with GPS data-logger, Power Assist Slipper Clutch, and MotoGP-derived aerodynamics.