KTM has unveiled the updated 2023 KTM RC 8C limited edition sportbike, and only 200 units will be manufactured for global markets. The motorcycle sees substantial changes to the engine along with the electronics package and is now lighter than before as well.
The motorcycle gets an LC8c DOHC twin-cylinder engine which puts out 133 bhp at 11,000 rpm along with 9.9 kgm of peak torque at 8,250 rpm. It also gets lighter Titanium valves, connecting rods, new piston rings, higher compression ratios, a bigger throttle body and a revised fuel pump. The updated RC 8C now makes 6.9 bhp more than the outgoing model because of these changes. An increased clutch preload, removal of the top balancer, and adjusting the crankcase balancer shaft are attributed to have delivered durability gains. Also, an additional PANKL oil cooler has been incorporated to help with thermal stability.
Thanks to the revised electronics on the RC 8C, riders can adjust and customise traction control, engine mapping and engine braking as well. The race bike can further be primed in a number of ways, including adjustment of the steering head, the throttle response and the degree of bite from the Brembo Stylema callipers and RCS19 Corsa Corta master cylinder.
The motorcycle has a dry weight of only 142 kg, courtesy of the CrMo4 steel frame and a new Akrapovic Titanium exhaust. Other features include adjustable WP Pro suspension, a new dashboard with GPS data-logger, a race quick shifter, MotoGP-derived handlebar switches for race control and Pirelli Diablo Corsa racing tyres. Each model will have the serial number stamped on the triple clamp of the handlebar. Prices for the RC 8C start from approximately Rs 33.09 lakh ($ 39,995) on the KTM website.
