The KTM X-Bow has been under constant evolution since its inception back in 2008. The Austrian motorcycle manufacturer has been working closely with a handful of suppliers that helped turn the X-Bow into a better and better track machine as years went by.

Today, we’re having a look at the GTX, the latest and most hardcore version of the KTM X-Bow. And yeah, it’s a full carbon-fiber affair this one.

What is it?

You all know the KTM X-Bow ultra-light sports car produced by Austria’s KTM, which also makes motorcycles, right?

The GTX continues KTM’s long-time collabo with Audi and Kiska but it also benefits from aero know-how coming from Reiter Engineering. At the same time, the X-Bow GTX retains the standard Formula 3-based monocoque of the regular X-Bow whose so called ‘survival cell’ offers stiffness and race-grade protection in the event of a crash despite tipping the scales at just 80 kilos (176 pounds).

Powered by Audi, in good KTM X-Bow fashion

Vector in the fact that the GTX tips the scales at just 1048 kilos (2310 pounds) and you’re looking at an incredibly gifted track tool. The engine pairs to a sequential six-speed gearbox that can take a continuous load of 750 Newton-meters (553 pound-feet) of torque and a peak load of 1000 Newton-meters (738 pound-feet).

For the sake of the argument, note that the 2008 KTM X-Bow cranked out 237 horsepower (240 PS) and 310 Newton-meters (230 pound-feet). Today, the GTX delivers double the grunt, showing how far the X-Bow has come.

Oh, and get this: the GTX uses Le Mans LMP gear shifting technology thanks to a specifically-developed gear shifter that’s electrically operated. By using this setup, KTM also managed to melt seven kilos (15.4 pounds) off the GTX’s hips and free up some space inside the race car’s belly, as the oil pump, oil filter, and oil-water heat exchanger are now fitted right inside the gearbox housing.

Out-and-out race car

Besides the impressive performance figures, the X-Bow GTX is also blessed with a lot of race-specific tweaks and features.

For example, traction control and racing ABS from Continental can be set manually, the pedals can be adjusted to the driver’s height, and the suede-wrapped, carbon-fiber steering wheel comes with an integrated display to keep relevant info inside the driver’s field of vision. Keeping the GTX glued to the ground is a set of Sachs racing dampers with adjustable rebound and compression settings.

On top of these perks, the jet fighter-style body kit, based on the X-Bow GT4’s, has been thoroughly revised. It now features a carbon-fiber frame instead of plexiglass with opening glass doors on both sides.

Stopping power, too, is of the racing ilk. The KTM X-Bow GTX rocks a six-piston brake caliper system in the front that bites into 378-mm discs and four-piston brake calipers in the rear and 355-mm discs.

Price and availability

KTM didn’t say whether order books are open or not for the X-Bow GTX, but since it announced the price tag, we’re thinking you can at least place a deposit for it and reserve a build slot. That said, the GTX starts at €230,000, which is roughly $269,000 at current exchange rates.