FIRST LOOK: KTM’s 2024 ENDURO RANGE

With 95% new components, KTM’s 2024 enduro models are not just a new generation of machines; they’re the most radically updated KTM enduro models since 2012, perhaps ever! And they finally answer the market’s calls for a high-performance closed-cartridge spring fork.

After months of rampant speculation about what updates KTM’s 2024-model enduro bikes will and won’t come with – much of it fuelled by images of the 2024-model machines recently raced by Mani Lettenbichler and Josep Garcia in the EnduroGP and HEWC championships – KTM has finally put all the conjecture to rest by unveiling details of their 2024 enduro range. As expected, KTM’s 2024 EXC and EXC-F models are an all-new generation of machines that adopt a greater majority of the 2023 MX range’s sweeping changes to engine, frame, subframe, swingarm, bodywork and electronics. In fact, KTM’s 2024 enduro bikes come with 95% new components!

But what has surprised (and delighted) many is the introduction of the all-new 48mm closed-cartridge fork (which first appeared a couple of weeks back when KTM unveiled its 2024 cross-country models) across the range, and the two-stroke models’ move from TPI (Transfer Port Injection) to TBI (Throttle Body Injection) and an electronic power-valve – in spite of widespread scepticism that the TBI fuel-injection system would not allow KTM’s two-stroke enduro models to meet Euro5 emission standards.

Transmoto is en route to KTM’s international media launch for its 2024 enduro models in Lesotho (home to the legendary Roof of Africa race) as we speak, and it’s fair to say we’re itching to sample these bikes because they are arguably the most radically updated KTM enduro machines since 2012, perhaps ever! What’ll be most interesting is to get a handle on how KTM has managed to adapt the all-new, more rigid, “anti-squat chassis” concept to the PDS-shod (no linkage) enduro models, and to get a feel for the performance gains generated by the all-new (and many would argue, long overdue) WP XACT Closed-Cartridge coil-sprung fork.

Meantime, here’s the top-line information and imagery supplied by KTM about their landmark new range of enduro models, which will start arriving at KTM dealers in Oz and NZ from September, 2023…

With over three decades of racing experience and more than 126 World Enduro titles in the trophy cabinet, KTM has remained the weapon of choice when it comes to taking on the world’s toughest races. For the 2024 model year, the KTM EXC nameplate continues to raise the bar in the areas of performance, development, and innovation with its most radical transformation to date.

CHASSIS & SUSPENSION

An all-new hydro-formed, laser-cut and robot-welded frame forms the backbone of the 2024 KTM enduro range. This brings new longitudinal and torsional flex parameters for unmatched rider feedback, energy absorption, and straight-line stability to the riding experience, but also provides the foundation on which the 2024 model range is built.

Up front, the KTM EXC and EXC-F range now boasts an all-new 48mm WP XACT Closed-Cartridge spring fork, featuring a new mid-valve piston concept that optimises oil flow within the cartridge.

The KTM enduro models continue to feature the proven PDS shock system, which for 2024 is updated and optimised to work fluidly with the new frame concept. This is mated to a new WP XPLOR PDS rear shock.

As an industry first, the suspension at both ends remains fully adjustable for compression and rebound damping by way of hand clickers, without the need for any tools, and easy-set preload adjustability on the rear.

An all-new lightweight two-piece subframe – constructed from a combination of polyamide and reinforced aluminum – delivers outstanding handling and rider feedback, as well as remarkable robustness. All electronic components, including an all-new Offroad Control Unit, are fully integrated into the subframe for easy access and improved protection.

BODYWORK

More notably, the 2024 KTM EXC range benefits from new bodywork all around. This has been developed with input from the Red Bull KTM Factory Riders to deliver an improved rider triangle for better knee contact, especially standing on the pegs.

A new front fender design now also features mud-repelling fins for expelling dirt and mud from hitting the rider or radiators, while a new 8.3-litre (four-stroke) and 8.9-litre (two-stroke) transparent polythene (XPE) fuel tank (for easy fuel level monitoring) complete the bodywork package.

ELECTRONIC FEATURES

Monitoring the electronics comes courtesy of a totally independent OCU under the seat, which replaces the use of electronic fuses and relays. In the event of any electrical component failure, the outputs are deactivated individually, with the error status of each unit indicated by a red or green LED light. This makes for quick and easy troubleshooting on the trail.

TWO-STROKES MODELS

In terms of engines, the two-stroke model range once again takes its place as the leader of the oil-burner paddock, debuting new electronic Throttle Body Injection technology. Dubbed TBI for short, it provides almost carburetor levels of ultra-smooth power delivery, while eliminating the need for re-jetting at different altitudes.

The reed valve case has also received an important design update, with new plastic flaps on the outside of the reed valve case for improved sealing of the intake tract. This new design avoids fuel excess in extreme up- or downhill sections, which could lead to the fuelling running rich.

A beneficial side effect of the new electronic fuel injection and the ECU is implementing the new electronic exhaust control, allowing for two different engine maps, selectable via an optional Map Select switch.

The 2024 KTM EXC two-stroke range will once again consist of:

• KTM 150EXC
• KTM 250EXC
• KTM 300EXC

FOUR-STROKE MODELS

The four-stroke model range provides the most concise offering of models. All models in the four-stroke range benefit from class-winning engines, engineered to deliver massive torque down low with an explosive power delivery at higher RPMs.

An improved centre of gravity was achieved by tilting the engine 2° backwards and repositioning the front sprocket 3mm lower, for greatly improved handling and manoeuvrability. Together with the benefits of mass centralisation and reduced weight, the anti-squat behaviour of the chassis was significantly improved, making for improved traction on extreme inclines and powering out of corners in special enduro stages.

The 2024 KTM EXC-F also debuts the combined optional addition of Traction Control and, for the first time ever on an enduro machine, a Quickshifter function. The latter makes for clutchless upshifts from second to sixth gear, allowing riders to keep the throttle pinned open while changing through the gears for improved control. These can be toggled on or off via an optional and newly designed Map Select Switch.

The 2024 KTM EXC-F four-stroke range consists of:

• KTM 250EXC-F
• KTM 350EXC-F
• KTM 450EXC-F
• KTM 500EXC-F

The 2024 KTM EXC range is the culmination of many years at the top end of Enduro competition, bringing together a dynamic combination of race-bred performance, ergonomics, and technology to challenge any terrain and redefine the limit.

The all-new 2024 KTM EXC and EXC-F range will be available at authorised KTM dealers in Australia and New Zealand from September, 2023. Prices are yet to be announced by KTM Australia.

For a much more detailed insight into the design elements and componentry found on KTM’s 2024 enduro models, check out this wealth of info and images on KTM’s website.