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2023 KTM RC 8C Overview
The 2023 KTM RC 8C is a sport motorcycle built around 889 cc of displacement. Under the tank sits a Twin, four-stroke engine, a compression ratio of 13.5:1. The bore and stroke measures 90.7 x 68.8 mm. 2023 KTM RC 8C delivers 89 Nm @ 8000 Revolutions of torque. From a practical standpoint, the 2023 RC 8C tips the scales at 142 kg, carries a 16-litre fuel tank, offers a seat height of 820 mm and spans a 1476 mm wheelbase. Scroll down for the complete 2023 KTM RC 8C spec sheet covering every technical detail from suspension travel to tyre sizes.
2023 KTM RC 8C compared with other bikes in the Sport category
Here is how the 2023 KTM RC 8C stacks up against other bikes in the Sport category in our database. Each model counts once, using the model year closest to this one, and the comparison covers up to 2003 models.
- Seat height of 820 mm is taller than that of 1074 of the other 1606 bikes in the Sport category.
- Only 827 of the other 2002 bikes in the Sport category have a larger engine displacement than the 889 cc of the RC 8C.
- Narrowing the field to the 453 models within five model years of it, the seat height of 820 mm is taller than that of 209 of the other 452.
Versus the 2022 model
Compared with the 2022 model, peak torque fell from 101 Nm to 89 Nm (-12 Nm). Displacement and seat height are unchanged.
2023 RC 8C - Pros & Cons
Strengths
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Fuel injection: The fuel injection system delivers crisp throttle response and reliable cold starts regardless of altitude or temperature.
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Strong front braking: The double disc front brake gives excellent stopping power and responds well to aftermarket braided lines.
Considerations
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Tall seat height: The 820 mm seat height will challenge shorter riders - tiptoeing at low speeds is something to factor into your decision.
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Chain final drive upkeep: Chain final drive needs regular cleaning, lubrication and tension checks to get full life out of the sprockets.
Wear Points & Servicing Notes
Fuelling & injector care
Fuelling comes from fuel injection. Systems like this are largely maintenance-free beyond keeping fuel quality decent and injectors clear - a fuel-system cleaner every service interval is cheap insurance.
Brake disc and pad wear
The double disc front brake gives strong, progressive stopping power. Disc thickness and pad depth are worth checking at every tyre change, since worn pads can score the disc surface.
Suspension condition on used examples
Up front, the RC 8C runs WP XACT PRO 7543 and WP APEX PRO 7746 at the rear. On a used example, check fork seals for weeping oil and test the rear linkage for play - seals are a relatively cheap fix but useful when negotiating price.
Final drive maintenance
Final drive is by chain - expect to clean and lube it every few hundred kilometres and check tension regularly; a neglected chain wears the sprockets faster than the chain itself.
Frame & chassis check
The frame is Chrome-molybdenum steel tubular space frame, powder-coated - worth a visual check for corrosion or impact damage around the head-stock and swingarm pivot on any used example, since frame damage is far costlier to fix than any service item.
RC 8C - Buying & Maintenance Guide
What to check before buying
When inspecting a used 2023 KTM RC 8C with its 889 cc sport, start with the basics: check the service book for oil change frequency, inspect the drivetrain for wear, and look for oil seepage around the engine casings and rocker covers. This model runs chain final drive, so check chain slack and sprocket tooth profile specifically - a worn sprocket is a cheaper fix now than after it's chewed up the next chain. Now 3 years old, this sport is as likely to show age-related wear (perished rubber, seized fasteners, degraded seals) as mileage-related wear. A cold start test is invaluable - a well-maintained RC 8C should fire up cleanly and settle to a smooth idle within a few seconds.
Oil and filter changes
Regular oil changes are the single most important maintenance task for the RC 8C's 889 cc twin, four-stroke. Stick to the manufacturer's interval - typically every 6,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. The sump holds 2.80 litres, so budget for that volume of quality motorcycle-specific engine oil. With a 13.5:1 compression ratio, running the octane grade specified in the manual matters more than on a lower-compression engine. Always use the correct viscosity grade as specified in the owner's manual.
Fuel system care
The RC 8C's fuel injection system is durable but benefits from quality fuel and the occasional use of a fuel-system cleaner additive. If the bike has been stored for more than three months, drain and replace the fuel to prevent varnish deposits in the injectors.
2023 KTM RC 8C - Frequently Asked Questions
What engine does the 2023 KTM RC 8C have?
The 2023 KTM RC 8C uses a Twin, four-stroke engine with 889 cc of displacement.
How much does the 2023 KTM RC 8C weigh?
The 2023 KTM RC 8C weighs 142 kg. This is the manufacturer's dry figure.
How much torque does the 2023 KTM RC 8C produce?
The 2023 KTM RC 8C produces 89 Nm @ 8000 Revolutions of torque.
What is the fuel tank capacity of the 2023 KTM RC 8C?
The 2023 KTM RC 8C has a 16-litre fuel tank. At around 5-6 litres per 100 km, that is roughly 266-320 km between stops.
Is the 2023 KTM RC 8C suitable for shorter riders?
The 2023 KTM RC 8C has a seat height of 820 mm. This is towards the tall end of the spectrum and will require most riders under 175 cm to tiptoe at stops.
What brakes does the 2023 KTM RC 8C have?
The 2023 KTM RC 8C uses double disc with 2 x Brembo Stylema Monobloc four piston, radially mounted caliper at the front and single disc with Brembo twin-piston floating calliper, brake disc at the rear.
What tyre sizes does the 2023 KTM RC 8C use?
The front tyre size on the 2023 KTM RC 8C is 120/70-ZR17.
How much oil does the 2023 KTM RC 8C take?
The 2023 KTM RC 8C takes 2.80 litres of engine oil at a full oil and filter change. Always verify against the dipstick or sight glass after filling.
KTM RC 8C Spec Evolution
The KTM RC 8C was produced across 2 model years (2022-2023). The table below highlights the key specifications that changed across the production run - useful whether you are comparing years or tracking down a specific variant.
| Specification |
2022 |
2023 |
| Dry Weight |
140 kg / 308.6 lbs |
142 kg / 313.1 lbs |
| CO2 |
110.0 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission) |
243.6 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission) |
| Ground Clearance (in.) |
5.9 inches |
7.5 inches |
| Ground Clearance (mm) |
150 mm |
191 mm |
| Engine Lubrication |
Pressure lubrication with 2 oil pumps |
Forced oil lubrication with 2 oil pumps |
| Rake |
24.3° |
23.3° |
| Fuel Consumption |
4.74 litres/100 km (21.1 km/l or 49.62 mpg) |
10.50 litres/100 km (9.5 km/l or 22.40 mpg) |
| Max Torque |
101.0 Nm (10.3 kgf-m or 74.5 ft.lbs) @ 8000 Revolutions |
89.0 Nm (9.1 kgf-m or 65.6 ft.lbs) @ 8000 Revolutions |
Key Specifications
Torque
89.0 Nm (9.1 kgf-m or 65.6 ft.lbs) @ 8000 Revolutions
Weight
142 kg / 313.1 lbs
Fuel Capacity
16.00 litres / 4.23 US gallons
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Full 2023 KTM RC 8C Specifications
Ground Clearance (in.)
7.5 inches
Ground Clearance (mm)
191 mm
Seat Height
820 mm / 32.3 in.
Wheelbase
1476 mm / 58.1 in.
Oil Capacity (l)
2.80 litres
Oil Capacity (Quarts)
2.96 US quarts
Dry Weight
142 kg / 313.1 lbs
Fuel Capacity
16.00 litres / 4.23 US gallons
Bore x Stroke (in,)
3.6 x 2.7 inches
Bore x Stroke (mm)
90.7 x 68.8 mm
Displacement (cc)
889.0 cc
Displacement (ci)
54.25 cubic inches
Engine Type
Twin, four-stroke
CO2
243.6 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Fuel System
Injection. DKK Dell’Orto
Compression Ratio
13.5:1
Engine Lubrication
Forced oil lubrication with 2 oil pumps
Fuel Consumption
10.50 litres/100 km (9.5 km/l or 22.40 mpg)
Ignition
Bosch EMS with RBW
Starter
Electric
Clutch
PASC™ antihopping clutch, mechanically operated
Final Drive
Chain (final drive)
Gearbox
6-speed
Primary Drive
520 chain
Frame Type
Chrome-molybdenum steel tubular space frame, powder-coated
Suspension - Front
WP XACT PRO 7543
Suspension - Rear
WP APEX PRO 7746
Rake
23.3°
Trail
99 mm / 3.9 in.
Wheel Travel - Front
120 mm / 4.7 in.
Wheel Travel - Rear
120 mm / 4.7 in.
Lighting system
LED headlight
Brakes - Front
Double disc. 2 x Brembo Stylema Monobloc four piston, radially mounted caliper
Brakes - Rear
Single disc. Brembo twin-piston floating calliper, brake disc
Tyres - Front
120/70-ZR17
Specifications are compiled from manufacturer documentation and cross-referenced
technical sources, and corrected on an ongoing basis.
Spot an error? Let us know.
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