- KTM RC8 C production model first spy shots emerge
- Shares its platform with the 890 Duke
- Likely to be more powerful than the 890 Duke
KTM is working on a fully-faired middle-weight sportbike which was recently spotted undergoing test runs. This is essentially the production version of the track-legal, limited-edition RC8 C that was internationally launched sometime back. In terms of the overall platform, it will be based on the existing KTM 890 Duke that’s sold abroad.
As can be observed in the spy shots, a host of components in the production RC8 appear to have been taken from the 890 Duke with minimal changes to suit its design and purpose. These elements include the tubular frame, rear swing arm, alloy wheels, and braking setup. It also gets a fully-adjustable rear shock absorber.
As for the design, it has been majorly retained from the RC8 C track bike. Certain visual elements like the front fascia, air vents in the fairing, and fuel tank look quite similar to the track-sped model. However, the dual projector headlight is very similar to the previous-generation RC 390. As for the electronics package, it should be as advanced as that of the 890 Duke with rider aids like cornering traction control, cornering ABS, wheelie control, engine brake control and more. The test mule was also carrying a full-colour TFT screen like the Duke.
As for the engine, the KTM RC8 will be propelled by the same motor as the 890 Duke. On the naked bike, this unit churns out around 121bhp of power and 99Nm of peak torque. However, the cylinder head of the big RC test mule seems to have been modified a bit. This might be an indication that it has been revised to produce higher performance than its naked sibling.
The official international launch of this fully-faired KTM sportbike is likely to take place sometime in 2023. Although it’s unlikely to arrive at the Indian shores, the Austrian bike maker might have a surprise for us later.
