KTM have continued to develop their EXC Enduro machinery via the competitive cauldron of race competition and have now presented us with their EXC range of Enduro motorcycles for 2020.
The changes continue through to new bodywork, new air filter box, new cooling system, and new exhaust systems.
The KTM 350 EXC-F has a reworked cylinder head design, which saves 200 g of weight while retaining nearly the same, proven architecture. New, flow-optimized ports and two overhead camshafts with optimized timings guarantee an outstanding power delivery with enduro specific torque characteristics. Cam followers with a DLC coating actuate lightweight valves (intake 36.3 mm, exhaust 29.1 mm) result in high engine speeds. The new head comes with a new cylinder head cover and gasket, a new spark plug and spark plug connector.The new, extremely short cylinder with a bore of 88 mm on the 350 EXC-F features a reworked cooling concept and houses a new, forged bridged box-type piston made by CP. Its piston crown geometry is perfectly matched to the high-compression combustion chamber and stands out with an extra rigid structure and low weight. The compression ratio is raised from 12.3 to 13.5 for increased power, while low oscillating masses make for extremely lively characteristics.The KTM 450 and 500 EXC-F engines are fitted with a newly developed, much more compact SOHC cylinder head, which is 15 mm lower and 500 g lighter. The gas flow through the re-designed ports is controlled by a new overhead camshaft which is now closer to the centre of gravity to improve handling. It features an enhanced axial mount for the decompressor shaft for more reliable starting and a new, more efficient integrated engine breather system for reduced oil losses. New, 40 mm titanium intake valves and 33 mm steel exhaust valves are shorter and matched to the new head design. They are activated via rocker arms that have an optimised, more rigid design with reduced inertia, guaranteeing more consistent performance across the powerband. A shorter timing chain and new chain guides contribute to a reduction in weight and low friction, while a new spark plug increases combustion efficiency. The new head configuration delivers a more efficient power delivery.
All 2-stroke models now feature new intake funnels adapted to the new engine or engine position respectively and accommodate an intake air temperature sensor.
All bikes sport high-quality Neken bars, Brembo brakes, No-Dirt footpegs, and CNC milled hubs with Giant rims fitted as standard equipment.
The SIX DAYS models celebrate the sport of enduro and have a wide range of well-thought out KTM PowerParts fitted over the standard models of KTM EXC.
In addition, KTM have gone one better again and annnounced the ultra-prestigious KTM 300 EXC TPI ERZBERGRODEO machine.
The 300 EXC ErzebergRodeo will have a limited production of 500 units, which has been created as a tribute to the iconic Austrian hard enduro event in its 25th year.
All the new KTM EXC models feature re-designed radiators mounted 12 mm lower than before, which significantly lowers the center of gravity. At the same time, the new radiator shape and new spoilers combine to enhance the ergonomics. Carefully optimized using computational fluid dynamics modelling (CFD), the enhanced coolant circulation and air flow increase the cooling efficiency. The reworked delta distributor integrated into the frame triangle features a center tube enlarged by 4 mm for a 57% greater cross section, increasing coolant flow from the cylinder head to the radiators. The KTM 450 EXC-F and KTM 500 EXC-F are fitted with an electric radiator fan as standard. A sophisticated design, plus new radiator guards integrated into the front section of the spoilers provide effective impact protection for the new radiators.
All KTM EXC models for model year 2020 feature new, lightweight high-tech steel frames made of chrome molybdenum steel sections, including hydro-formed elements produced with state-of-the-art robots.
The frames use the same proven geometries as before but have been re-designed in several key areas for an optimized stiffness to provide increased feedback to the rider, as well as delivering an outstanding combination of playful agility and dependable stability.
Connecting the cylinder head to the frame, the lateral engine headstays of all models are now made of aluminum, enhancing cornering precision while reducing vibrations. Newly designed lateral frame guards feature a non-slip surface texture and the one on the right-hand side also provides heat protection against the silencer.
In the 250/300 EXC frame, the engine is rotated downwards by one degree around the swingarm pivot for significantly more front wheel traction.
The subframe is made of strong, especially lightweight profiles and now weighs less than 900 g. To increase rear fender stability, it has been lengthened by 40 mm.
All EXC models retain the proven cast aluminum swingarms. The design offers low weight and perfect flex behavior, supporting the frame and contributing to the racing enduros’ great tracking, stability and comfort. Cast in one piece, the manufacturing process allows unlimited geometry solutions while eliminating inconsistencies that might occur in welded swingarms.
All EXC models are fitted with the WP XPLOR 48 upside-down fork. A split fork design developed by WP and KTM, it is fitted with springs on both sides, but with separate damping circuits, with the left-hand fork leg damping only the compression stage and the right hand one only the rebound. This means damping is easily adjusted via the dials on top of both fork tubes with 30 clicks each, while the two stages do not affect each other.
Already distinguished by outstanding response and damping character istics, the fork receives a new, calibrated mid-valve piston for MY2020 to provide more consistent damping, as well as new upper fork caps with new clicker adjusters for easier adjustment, in addition to a new color/ graphic design.
New settings keep the front end higher for enhanced rider feedback and provide even greater reserves against bottoming out. Standard on the SIX DAYS models and optional on the standard models, the convenient, three-stage spring preload adjuster has been reworked for easier operation without tools.
Fitted to all EXC models, the WP XPLOR PDS shock ab sorber is the key element of the proven and successful PDS rear suspension design (Progressive Damping System), where the shock absorber is directly linked to the swingarm without an additional linkage system.
Optimum damping progression for enduro riding is achieved by a second damping piston in combination with a closed cup towards the end of the stroke and supported by a progressive shock spring.
For MY2020, an optimized second piston and cup with a reworked shape and seal lead to further increased resistance against bottoming out without diminishing the ride. The new XPLOR PDS shock absorber provides enhanced damping characteristics and better hold-up while perfectly matching the new frame and reworked front end setup. Fully adjustable, including high- and low-speed compression adjustments, the shock absorber makes setting up possible with great precision to match any track conditions and rider preferences.
The 250 and 300cc models feature new HD (heavy duty) exhaust pipes made by KTM using an innovative 3D stamping process that makes it possible to provide the outer shells with a corrugated surface. This renders the pipe a lot more rigid and resistant against rock and debris impacts, while significantly reducing noise. At the same time, the exhaust pipes have an oval cross section for increased ground clearance and reduced width.
The 2-stroke silencers with their new, edgy profile and new end cap now have an increased volume as well as reworked internals developed individually for each model. The previous polymer mount has been replaced with lightweight, welded aluminum brackets. New perforated inner tubes and a new, lighter damping wool combine to provide more efficient noise damping and enhanced durability at approximately 200 g less weight (250/300cc).
The 4-stroke models now feature two-piece header pipes for a more user-friendly dismantling, while providing better access to the shock absorber. A new, slightly wider aluminum sleeve and end cap result in more compact and shorter main silencers, bringing the weight closer to the center of gravity for increased mass centralization.
All models of the new EXC range are fitted with redesigned, lightweight polyethylene fuel tanks, enhancing the ergonomics, while holding slightly more fuel than their predecessors (see specs breakouts below for full details). The 1/3-turn bayonet filler cap makes for quick and easy closure. All tanks are fitted with a fuel pump and a fuel level sensor.
Light – fast – fun! With all the agility of a 125, the new KTM 150 EXC TPI with fuel injection has the power and the torque to really take the fight to the 250cc 4-strokes.
This lively 2-stroke retains the typical low weight, straightforward tech and low maintenance cost. On the other hand, no expense has been spared for top equipment like the hydraulic clutch and Brembo brakes.
The benefits of TPI and electronically controlled engine lubrication, combined with the brand-new chassis, perhaps makes the new KTM 150 EXC TPI the ultimate lightweight enduro for rookies and experienced riders alike.
Post time: May-27-2019