The 2022 KTM RC 8C has just been debuted to the world – and to say it’s landed with a bang is an understatement.
KTM just dropped the supersport, lightweight racing prototype this morning amidst a flurry of excitement.
The 140kg/309 lb. 2022 KTM RC 8C is a hand-built machine built specifically for the track grid.
The 128 Hp, 889 cc LC8c, DOHC, 8 valve parallel twin (the same as in the KTM 890 DUKE R) provides all the punch necessary while still making an easy-to-maintain, high-torque production engine for the client.
KTM also used carbon, Kevlar-reinforced GRP bodywork inspired from the MotoGP™ RC16, which encases a very pretty 25CrMo4 steel tubular frame.
We promised race-ready, so this also means the frame is augmented by a selection of WP Pro Components and fronted by a custom, 43 mm WP APEX PRO 7543 closed cartridge fork (put together in the same department that maintains suspension of the RC 16).
With zero hydraulic stroke limitation, you’re guaranteed fully customizable damping properties, and they’ve chucked in an equally adjustable WP APEX PRO 7746 shock with preload adjuster at the rear of the bike.
The body panels and gas tank are both quick-release and sit on a light, aluminum pair of Dymag rims with Pirelli race slicks.
The brakes are, of course, Brembo race-spec, with Stylema front brake calipers grabbing 290 mm fully floating brake disks and a two-piston caliper with a 230 mm fully floating disk for the hub.
The 2022 RC8C has a race dashboard (AIM MXS 1.2), a data logger that can be analyzed in AIM Race Studio, and a Brembo 19RCS CORSA CORTA radial master cylinder – a technical addition with many solutions taken straight from master cylinders used in MotoGP™, and one that lets the rider tailor the bite point exactly where it’s needed when it’s needed.
Fancy getting inside racing tips from the likes of superstar racers Dani Pedrosa and Mika Kallio? Clients who purchase the 2022 RC 8C will also have access to a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to join the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing test team at the Circuito de Jerez – with just 100 bikes made and only 25 customers allowed to the event, you’ve got a 25% chance of making it!
Crazy for cocoa puffs? The RC 8C itself will dent pockets a bit at £30,999, plus extra for the ‘Race’ and ‘Trackday’ packages (tire warmers, stands, etc.), and an additional £2500 deposit through KTM’s online ordering system.
For what you’re getting, it’s worth it.