Source: MotorcyclistOnline.com
[[{“value”:”All-new everything: The 2024 KTM 500 EXC-F marks the model’s first complete redesign since 2020. (KTM/)Trail riders and off-road fans, rejoice: KTM’s 500 EXC-F returns for 2024 faster, lighter, and more user-friendly than ever before. Big Orange claims the flagship dual sport is 95 percent new from the previous year model, marking the first ground-up redesign to the big-bore thumper since MY20.The new bike sports 95 percent new parts according to KTM, including a new rear shock with completely tool-free adjustment. (KTM/)Chief among the 500′s laundry list of updates is a redesigned 511cc engine, which KTM claims is both lighter and more powerful. The 64-hp powerplant reportedly tips the scales at a scant 65 pounds while also sitting two degrees further back in the frame to help centralize mass and improve anti-squat under acceleration.The 2024 KTM 500 EXC-F gets a redesigned engine that’s both lighter and more powerful than the outgoing powerplant. (KTM/)Speaking of the frame, the EXC’s chromoly steel double-cradle design has been completely overhauled for the new model year with a focus on high-speed stability and longitudinal rigidity, and now incorporates a forged steering head to further reduce flex under braking. The new frame also sports more closely spaced footpeg mounts at the rear making for a narrower overall package between the ankles.Related: The Best and Most Expensive Dirt Bikes of 2024The EXC’s revised steel cradle frame includes a forged steering head and tighter spacing between the footpegs. (KTM/)Suspension-wise the KTM 500 EXC-F is now both fully adjustable and fully tool-free, with hand-operated clickers front and rear for compression, rebound, and preload. Up front the 48mm WP Xact closed cartridge fork is secured by a pair of forged triple clamps, and also features a revised hydrostop to further resist bottoming at the end of the stroke. Out back the WP Xplor PDS shock gets a relocated mount, further improving anti-squat functionality.Whenever an over-current situation is detected, KTM’s new Offroad Control Unit automatically deactivates individual components, and then flags the issue with a red LED. This removes the need to carry fuses and simplifies diagnosing trailside electronic issues. (KTM/)Perhaps most interesting, however, is the EXC’s new Offroad Control Unit, which completely replaces a traditional fuse and relay system. KTM says this module continuously monitors all inputs from both the ECU and voltage regulator, and will automatically deactivate individual components (fan, fuel pump, lights, etc.) when an over-current situation is detected.Pretty much everything you see here has been retooled from the LED headlight to the fuel tank. (KTM/)Other major highlights include tool-free airbox access, an upgraded LED headlight that’s 300 percent brighter, and high-strength Giant alloy wheels with CNC-machined hubs. The new 2024 KTM 500 EXC-F’s $12,495 MSRP won’t make it the cheapest bike in the shed, but it’s already available in showrooms if your money’s green enough.2024 KTM 500 EXC-F Technical Specifications and Price
PRICE:
$12,949
ENGINE:
511cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled single-cylinder
BORE x STROKE:
95.0 x 72.0mm
COMPRESSION RATIO:
12.75:1
FUEL DELIVERY:
Keihin EFI w/ 42mm throttle body
CLUTCH:
Wet, DDS multiplate; Brembo hydraulics
TRANSMISSION/FINAL DRIVE:
6-speed/chain
CLAIMED HORSEPOWER:
64 hp
CLAIMED TORQUE:
NA
FRAME:
Chromoly steel, central double cradle
FRONT SUSPENSION:
48mm WP Xact fork, fully adjustable (tool free); 11.8 in. travel
REAR SUSPENSION:
WP Xplor PDS shock, fully adjustable (tool free); 12.2 in. travel
FRONT BRAKE:
260mm disc
REAR BRAKE:
220mm disc
WHEELS, FRONT/REAR:
Spoked alloy; 21 in./18 in.
TIRES, FRONT/REAR:
Continental TKC 80; 90/90-121 / 140/90-18
RAKE/TRAIL:
26.1°/NA
WHEELBASE:
58.6 in.
SEAT HEIGHT:
37.9 in.
FUEL CAPACITY:
2.2 gal.
CLAIMED DRY WEIGHT:
254 lb.
WARRANTY:
6 mo.
AVAILABLE:
August
CONTACT:
ktm.com”}]]
