The KTM RC8C is not appreciated second-hand despite its exclusivity

2024-09-16 11:59:36

When talking about limited edition motorcycles, you hardly ever see them on the circuits or at an occasional auction, It is common to think that the price will rise over time. After all, we are talking about special editions, almost collectors, as is the case with the KTM RC8C. A motorcycle produced, since its launch in 2021, in very limited runs: only 200 units per year. Pure exclusivity. However, the reality of the second-hand market shows that being “limited” does not always mean “more valuable”.

For context, lThe KTM RC8C is a real beast designed exclusively for the track, manufactured in collaboration with Krämer Motorcycles. In its 2023 version, KTM significantly improved the model, adding an additional 7 hp to reach a power of 135 hp, with a dry weight of only 142 kilograms. It is equipped with high-end components such as WP APEX PRO suspension and a titanium Akrapovič exhaust system. In addition, it offers fine-tuned traction control, improved mapping, engine-adjusted braking and even GPS telemetry.

It’s not just any motorcycle; It’s a missile with wheels designed to destroy times in every lap. And, if that’s not enough, only 200 people in the world can have them every year. With such a cover letter, one would expect the second-hand market to treat it with the respect it deserves, but this does not seem to be the case.

Recently, an ad appeared in the United States that left us with a crooked helmet. A 2023 KTM RC8C -specifically unit number 20-, with zero kilometers, on sale for 30,200 euros ($33,500), when the original price of this machine is 39,900 euros. A reduction of almost 10,000 euros for a motorcycle that didn’t even touch the asphalt. This raises an interesting question: why does an exclusive, new and unused motorcycle lose value so quickly?

One of the main problems with ultra-limited motorcycles is that They are designed for a very specific niche: drivers who want a competition machine without street homologation restrictions. This means that these motorcycles cannot be registered, and their use is limited to circuits. Although it is a unique experience for the lucky few who can afford one, the truth is that this severely limits the buyer’s market.

It’s not the same as buying a street-legal superbike, which you can enjoy at any time, or a motorcycle that requires additional logistics, such as renting a circuit or participating in organized eventsbe able to benefit from it.

Furthermore, while these buyers are usually passionate about the motoring world, The reality is that few people can maintain such an expensive and distinctive sound for long.. And this is where exclusivity becomes a double-edged sword. Many of these owners sell their motorcycles for the simple reason that they don’t use them as much as they thought they would.

Another key point is supply and demand. Regardless of how limited the production may be, the number of potential buyers for a highly specialized track bike is very small. Furthermore, when a new and improved version is released every year, as KTM does, the previous model quickly loses appeal.

For example, the 2023 KTM RC8C comes with several improvements compared to the 2021 model: more power, better aerodynamics and modern technology in terms of electronic components and suspension. This makes previous units lose their appeal, although they remain exclusive and have unusual features. If you can buy the new version with all the improvements, why go for the old one? So when a motorcycle like this appears on the second-hand market, the depreciation increases.

In addition, and this is something that is noted in the announcement itself,. the owner acknowledges that he has paid “much more than you want”, which shows a certain level of desperation to sell. And when potential buyers know the market is in their favor, they usually take the opportunity to negotiate down.

Another factor that may influence depreciation is, ironically, These motorcycles designed for the circuit are not used as much. Buying a motorcycle like the KTM RC8C means having access to circuits and time to enjoy it. It’s not like a sports bra that you take out for a walk on the weekend. In addition, they are physically demanding motorcycles; Not everyone can or wants to ride them regularly.

In fact, the ad itself states that the seller can no longer ride the circuit and that the motorcycle is in storage and “constant reminder” of the things he can no longer do. This situation shows a common pattern in this type of motorcycle: it is easy to buy them, to use them, not so much.

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It is difficult to predict whether the KTM RC8C will regain its value in the future. In the short term, it looks like it will continue to depreciate, especially if KTM continues to release new versions annually, each one better than the last. However, in the long term, Discontinuation of the model could increase the value of these limited edition motorcycles or if it becomes a famous collector’s item due to its exclusivity and relationship with the world of competition.