Highlights of the KTM 300 XC (MY26)

Benefits of this bike

01. Before The Flag

Easy Suspension Adjustment: As always, the suspension boasts an easy tool-free setup at both ends, ensuring you chase down the podium in total control. On the rear, a hand-adjustable dual compression option allows riders to adjust high- and low-speed settings in a matter of seconds. The forks on the front end are also easily modified thanks to hand-adjustable clickers on the bottom of the fork shoe and top cap.

AIRBOX: The robust one-piece design airbox on the KTM XC range features an air inlet sleeve and snorkel, which prevents deformation and improves airflow. But don't fret, toolless filter access is retained, with an intuitive filter mounting system and protection against dirt intrusion.

02. Start Strong

More Usable Power: This 300 cc 2-stroke powerhouse brings a new choice of weapon to the Open category and provides more choice for racers looking for maximum power at the least possible weight. Along with low maintenance costs and an overall engine weight of just 23.8 kg, the KTM 300 XC provides pure performance. Coupled together with advanced technical innovations, e-start, electronic fuel injection, and an electronic exhaust control, this is the new cross country kingpin.

Fuel Injection: With Electronic Fuel Injection setting the standard, there's no more jetting setup pre-race, and thanks to the Keihin EFI, the ECU coming from Vitesco and reed valve case design, you can be guaranteed of laying down optimal power at any altitude, all of the time.

Selectable Maps: The KTM XC models feature a map select switch as standard, allowing the racer to switch between 2 perceptible engine maps. Map 1 provides a linear, predictable power delivery, while Map 2 gives it the full beans with crisp, explosive power output.

03. Calm Under Fire

Absolute Control: No matter how gnarly the trail is, you'll stay in complete control thanks to a rider-focussed frame design that has not only been engineered for longitudinal rigidity, but also repositions rotating mass closer to the center of gravity. Thick frame walls also improve reliability, flex characteristics and offer unmatched rider feel. The shock mounting also provides the perfect amount of anti-squat for better traction out of corners, while the footpeg mounting position is positoned in such a way to reduce the risk of hooking up on roots or rocks. Additionally, forged brackets on the lower frame rails allows for easy installation of the skid plate, too.

Ergonomics: The KTM XC and XC-F range feature tank shrouds with bi-compound plastics, which work alongside the specially-developed rider triangle, providing unmatched knee contact and gripping surfaces - especially when standing on the pegs. While the plastics work to expel mud buildup in wet, muddy conditions, the flat seat profile and high-grip black seat cover provide exceptional rider movement and control. A handy grip pocket under the seat, just above the airbox, makes gripping the bike and lifting it much easier.

Go the distance: You call it a fuel tank. We call it a 8.5 liters race bucket. The transparent polythene fuel tank has a fuel tank roll - which not only secures the tank more firmly in place, and allows for easy fuel level monitoring - it also protects the frame from unwanted scrubbing and race rash.

04. Hit The Big Stuff

Mass Centralization: Besides the expertly crafted, hydro-formed, laser-cut, and robot-welded frame being engineered to provide exceptional rider feedback and straight-line stability, the chassis consists of specifically calculated parameters of longitudinal and torsional flex. This means the frame acts as a "shock absorber" of sorts, making for a less harsh ride, resulting in less rider fatigue over many hard laps.

WP XACT Fork: Let's get the technical parts out of the way first; the 48 mm WP XACT Closed Cartridge spring forks fitted to the KTM XC and XC-F line-up feature progressive and consistent damping, while oil and air bypasses reduce pressure peaks. In combination with the mid-valve damping system, all this provides exceptional feedback and rider comfort. The fork also has settings which not only complement the frame and rear linkage, but ensure stellar performance at all levels. Speaking of settings, these are easily adjusted via easy-access click adjusters for compression and rebound.

WP XACT Shock: Keeping things in check at the rear, the WP XACT rear shock uses settings directly from the KTM Factory Racing Teams. The frame and shock geometry mean more ground clearance at the linkage, making it less susceptible to bottoming out. Small diameter linkage bolts save weight, while linkage seals refine rear shock response and advanced damping characteristics.

05. Maintaining Momentum

Ultimate rigidity: Count on a durable chain guide and chain guard and minimize the chances of hooking on external objects - especially in extremely muddy terrain while reducing dirt build-up around the swingarm and rear sprocket. For 2026 we've also modified the fixing points and routing of the wiring harness so it's less prone to wear and damage.

Consistency: A 72 mm bore, highly innovative electronic exhaust port management, and a machined finish for accurate port timing means the cylinder on the KTM 300 XC does more than just house the piston. It results in much-improved rideability, engine control, and more adjustability of the engine characteristics, thanks to 2 selectable and distinguished engine maps. Also, it's auto-calibrating, meaning there's no more hassle with wrong power valve adjustments.