Highlights of the KTM 500 EXC-F (MY26)

Benefits of this bike

01. Preparation makes Perfect

Adjustability: Getting READY TO RACE has never been easier. The KTM Enduro range boasts a tool-free suspension setup at both ends. At the rear, our legendary, race-winning PDS technology features hand-adjustable dual compression controls, allowing riders to adjust high- and low-speed settings in a matter of seconds. On the front, the forks are also easily adjusted thanks to hand-adjustable clickers on the bottom of the fork shoe and on the fork top cap, making changing settings on the fly as easy as twisting the throttle.

Air filter box: The air filter box is designed to ensure maximum airflow with minimal water intrusion. Precision in how the inlet ducts are positioned is aimed at preventing air deformation and maintaining filter protection. An enduro-specific splash protector under the airbox prevents water or dirt from splashing up from the rear wheel, while the Twin Air filter and air filter support design features a simple fail-proof mounting system for safe and accurate filter installation. All this ensures the air filter is easily accessed, without tools, for fast track-side maintenance.

Fuel Tank: The transparent, polythene (XPE) fuel tank is a signature element of the KTM Enduro lineup. Having undergone thorough race testing in everything from the GNCC to the hardest of FIM hard enduros, these tanks are built, well, like tanks! A one-piece fuel pump and filter manage fuel supply, while servicing is made extra simple with easy fuel filter access. What's more, an updated fuel tank roll now holds the tank more firmly in place and protects the frame against scrubbing:

Switchgear: The entire KTM Enduro range will receive an easy-to-use switchgear. On the right side of the handlebar, you'll find a sleek start/stop switch, and on the left, an optional Map Select switch will allow riders to choose between Map 1 or Map 2.

Graphics: The KTM Enduro Range gets a fresh color update. Orange dominates the color palate, but shades of dark purple and red make an appearance, creating a unique, but ultra-READY TO RACE look. As always, all graphics remain in place thanks to in-mold technology, while the seat features a high-grip seat cover in black, with the same texture shared across the frame protectors, tank spoilers, and the bar pad.

02. Benchmark lap

Engine: ​Warp speed engaged! The ​SOHC engine in the KTM 500 EXC-F is an undeniable powerhouse. Weighing in at a mere 29.5 kg it's remarkably lightweight for its power output. Designed with mass centralization in mind, this hard-hitting power factory features a low center of gravity, providing exceptional handling, maneuverability, and overall anti-squat behavior.

Offroad Control Unit: The Offroad Control Unit - or OCU - is located under the seat and replaces all the electronic fuses and relays. All outputs are switched depending on signals from the voltage regulator and the ECU continuously. In the event of over-current, outputs are deactivated individually. This makes for easy error detection as the status of each output is indicated by a red or green LED light. This means diagnosing an electrical issue out on the trail is as easy as lifting the seat, and there's no more need to carry fiddly fuses.

Battery & Wiring Harness: As with the rest of the 4-stroke EXC-F range, the KTM 500 EXC-F is fitted with a proven and reliable electric start system. Powered by an ultra-lightweight 2 Ah lithium-ion starter battery, it provides a safe, reliable starting time and time again, while the wiring harness has most of the electrical components carefully positioned under the seat for easy accessibility.

Ergonomics: The KTM Enduro range features a rider-focussed body-position triangle, providing improved knee contact - especially when standing on the pegs - with improved gripping surfaces all around. With the plastics working to expel mud buildup in wet, muddy conditions, a flat seat profile with a high grip seat cover providing exceptional rider movement and control, and a polyamide-reinforced aluminum subframe providing unmatched rider feel and feedback, your only concern is navigating the terrain ahead of you.

Exhaust: Providing the bark to the KTM 500 EXC-F bite, the exhaust system is designed to deliver hard-hitting performance at the lowest possible weight. The 2-piece header pipe design is made to be as compact as possible, with the routing of the header pipe extremely close to the engine for maximum of mass centralization and minimum exposure to rocks. At the nose-making end, a short, compact silencer is crafted from lightweight aluminum and finished in a premium matt black coating.

CPC Fuel Connector: A protection cap is used for the CPC fuel connector on all models. This not only prevents dirt from entering the sides of the connector and prevents mistakenly opening, but also adds protection from sticks or stones that might hit it. The small fuel filter in the fuel hose still stays in place and is easily accessible.

Cooling System: A radiator fan is fitted as standard equipment across the KTM EXC and EXC-F model range.

Quickshifter: Clutchless upshifts are the name of the game with the an optional Quickshifter. The function works by interrupting the ignition for a fraction of a second. This allows upshifting without the use of the clutch lever, while the throttle is fully opened. On the technical side, a sensor on the shift drum notices the force on the shift lever, sending the signal to the ECU and interrupting the ignition timing to slot the next gear in. The Quickshifter can also be deactivated via the map select switch and is only active from 2nd to 6th gear.

Traction Control: Blasting through wet and muddy terrain just got a lot easier with the optional Traction Control function. TC analyzes throttle input from the rider and the rate at which the RPM increases in the engine. If the RPM increases too quickly, the EMS registers a loss of grip and reduces the amount of power to the rear wheel. This ensures maximum traction. Of course, it can be switched off for complete control.

Selectable Engine Maps: Designed for easy operation, the map select switch is available as an optional extra on all KTM EXC models and allows for the easy selection of 2 unique engine maps. Map 1 is the standard, more linear, and predictable power map, while map 2 is a more aggressive map for added throttle response and more crisp, explosive power output.

03. On the charge

Frame: Specifically engineered for longitudinal rigidity, the KTM Enduro range is engineered around a black powder coated frame providing exceptional rider feedback, energy absorption, and high-speed stability. This is achieved by repositioning the rotating masses in the frame along with a forged steering head connection. The footrest mounts also feature a slim design for less risk of hooking up. And when the ride comes to an end, a forged one-piece side stand ensures your enduro weapon stands proud.

Subframe: An ultra-light lightweight subframe takes charge at the rear of the main frame, featuring a 2-part polyamide and reinforced aluminum construction. With the help of computational dynamics, a specific rigidity was engineered into the subframe, to deliver outstanding handling and rider feedback. This compact subframe design also boasts the the ability to bend and flex in the event of a crash, rather than break, with the subframe fully integrating electronic components, without any extra need for brackets, holders, or unnecessary fixtures.

WP XACT Closed-cartidge Fork: The proven 48 mm WP XACT Closed Cartridge fork has been updated with shorter, lighter main springs with a polished surface, which improves durability and reduces weight by 200 grams. This means these forks ensure unmatched performance at every level. But, best of all, the fork allows for full adjustment of compression and rebound without the need for any tools.

WP XPLOR Shock: Remaining a hallmark of KTM Enduro weaponry, an PDS rear shock concept improves the anti-squat behaviors of the chassis. This remains the most reliable and maintenance-friendly option for competitive enduro racing. Moreover, a lightweight WP XPLOR PDS rear shock takes charge at the rear. The rear shock received updated settings, resulting in improved pressure balance within the shock. With consistent damping, as well as full adjustability thanks to easy-to-use hand clickers for adjustments on the fly, it remains the setup to beat.

Wheels and Tires: The KTM 500 EXC-F rolls on a set of high-strength GIANT alloy wheels coupled to CNC-machined hubs and aluminum nipples. These are wrapped in a set of ultra-grippy Maxxis MaxxEnduro tires providing exceptional traction in all conditions.

04. Keeping you going

Stability: The KTM Enduro range remains rock-solid at any speed thanks to a repositioned and forged steering head connection and CNC-milled triple clamps. Made from high-grade aluminum, these feature optimally tuned steering stem stiffness, perfect alignment of the fork tubes, and precise geometry of the fork clamps to ensure highly responsive and smooth fork action - not to mention unwavering stability for those ultra-fast flat-out special stages.

LED headlight: Lighting the way forward, the KTM Enduro range features an LED headlight unit and light mask. The mask itself features improved triple clamp protection against roost and does away with the rubber mounting straps for improved fitment. Most importantly, the LED lighting unit provides serious illumination, making riding in the dark a completely new experience.