MotoGP-inspired KTM RC 8C track-special revealed for 2022

KTM has revealed a brand-new twin-cylinder sportsbike that will feature high-tech racing componentry inspired by the brand’s RC 16 MotoGP chariot.

The track-only 2022 KTM RC 8C will use the familiar LC8 engine found in the KTM 890 Duke R, but it will be complete with a bespoke chassis that is designed for racing.

KTM has produced a twin-cylinder sportsbike before in the form of the KTM 1190 RC8, which was built between 2008 and 2015, but the new RC 8C fills a notable gap in the Austrian firm's road offerings. It remains to be seen if the RC 8C will form the basis of a road-legal sportsbike.

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Powered by the 889cc, DOHC, 8-valve parallel-twin LC8 donk, the KTM RC 8C will deliver 128hp and 101Nm of torque - slightly higher figures than the 890 Duke R super naked.

The engine is bolted into a dedicated 25CrMo4 steel tubular frame, and is complimented by a 43mm WP Apex Pro 7543 closed-cartridge fork up the front, and a WP Apex Pro 7746 shock at the rear. Both are adjustable and assembled in the same department as the RC16 suspension.

Elsewhere, the unique machine features a quick-release tank and body panels, lightweight Dymag wheels with Pirelli SC1 race slicks, and Brembo Stylema brakes with a Brembo 19RCS Corsta Corta radial master cylinder.

Weighing in at just 140kg, the bike is also equipped with a dedicated racing exhaust and Akrapovic titanium muffler, and a dedicated air box and racing air filter.

In the tech department, the RC 8C utilises a full-factory AIM MXS 1.2 Race dashboard and data logger with integrated GPS function. It is controlled by a configurable 5-inch TFT display. The dashboard can display important engine stats, ECU settings and give live information about lap-time performance.

Additionally, the data is logged and can be analysed by a crew in the pits via the AIM Race Studio. At no additional cost, your pit crew can track speed, position on the track, lap-times, throttle positon, current RPM and gear, acceleration, deceleration, and critical engine stats like water temp, battery voltage, ECU mode, and oil pressure.

The 2022 KTM RC 8C will be released in limited numbers, while pricing and a potential allocation for Australia are yet to be announced. The bike will be available for pre-order from July 22, 2021.

Would-be customers will also have the chance to join the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing test team at Jerez and receive a special package that includes and extra set of wheels and brake discs, front and rear paddock stands, tire warmers and a KTM race carpet. This will be limited to just 25 customers.