Not since KTM’s RC8 R of the early ‘10s, has KTM produced such a track-ready sportbike like the RC 8R. Unlike that open-class 1,195cc 75-degree V-twin-powered Superbike, the RC 8R is a middleweight parallel-twin-powered machine. And while the RC8 R was a streetbike, as per Superbike rules, the RC 8C is a closed-course trackday weapon and not street legal.
This ultra-limited-edition model (100 units) is literally “Ready to Race,” built with top-level components for unparalleled on-track performance. The 889cc LC8c engine is tuned for track performance with the rev limiter bumped up to 12,000 rpm. Power jumps to 133 hp (compared to the 890 SMT’s 103 hp), while torque measures 72 lb.-ft.
The chassis is littered with race-spec hardware including the WP Apex Pro suspension, ultralightweight Dymag forged aluminum wheels that are wrapped in Pirelli Diablo Superbike racing slicks. Brembo Stylema front brake calipers and 290mm discs are mated to a Brembo 19RSC Corsa Corta master cylinder.
If you haven’t already snatched one of these up, you’ll likely have to wait until the upcoming KTM 990 RC R becomes available.
The 2024 KTM RC 8C lists for $41,499.
- Ducati Panigale V2 Superquadro Final Edition, $28,000
- Aprilia RS 660 Extrema, $13,499
- MV Agusta F3 RC, $25,998
- Triumph Street Triple 765 Moto2, $15,395
- Krämer GP2-890RR, $39,995
2024 KTM RC 8C Claimed Specs
| MSRP: |
$41,499 |
| Engine: |
DOHC, liquid-cooled parallel twin; 4 valves/cyl. |
| Displacement: |
889cc |
| Bore x Stroke: |
90.7 x 68.8mm |
| Compression Ratio: |
14.0:1 |
| Transmission/Final Drive: |
6-speed/chain |
| Claimed Horsepower: |
135 hp @ 11,000 rpm |
| Claimed Torque: |
72.3 lb.-ft. @ 8,250 rpm |
| Fuel System: |
Electronic fuel injection w/ 48mm throttle bodies; ride-by-wire |
| Clutch: |
Wet, multiplate PASC antihopping slipper/assist; mechanical actuation |
| Frame: |
Chromoly steel trellis |
| Front Suspension: |
WP Apex Pro 43mm inverted closed-cartridge fork, fully adjustable; 4.7 in. travel |
| Rear Suspension: |
WP Apex Pro shock, fully adjustable; 4.7 in. travel |
| Front Brake: |
Brembo Stylema radial-mount 4-piston calipers, 290mm floating discs |
| Rear Brake: |
Brembo 2-piston caliper, floating 230mm disc |
| Wheels, Front/Rear: |
Dymag forged aluminum; 17 x 3.5 in. / 17 x 6.0 in. |
| Tires, Front/Rear: |
Pirelli Diablo Superbike slicks; 120/70-17 / 180/60-17 |
| Rake/Trail: |
23.3°/3.9 in. |
| Wheelbase: |
55.1 in. |
| Ground Clearance: |
7.5 in. |
| Seat Height: |
32.3 in. |
| Fuel Capacity: |
4.2 gal. |
| Dry Weight: |
309 lb. |
| Contact: |
ktm.com |
