How does the KTM RC 8C measure up on track in the real world when compared to dedicated race bikes?

The KTM RC 8C sits in an interesting limbo between highly modified track machines based on high-end street bikes and purpose-built race machines. There has been some discussion about what its true capabilities are in a competitive environment. Riders and racers argue whether their lap times, handling, and performance stack up against dedicated supersport and superbike race machines. The argument is made that its state-of-the-art electronics and lightweight design give it an edge, and others say that purpose-built race bikes still have an edge because of their specialized parts and continuous development. It’s a good conversation, touching on how versatile the RC 8C is, how easy it is to set up, and whether its performance justifies its status as a track-only bike. Real-world feedback from riders who have ridden both the RC 8C and dedicated race bikes on the same tracks gives us a real-world comparison.