FIRST LOOK: 2026 KTM 300EXC HARDENDURO

KTM has revealed their 2026 KTM 300EXC HardEnduro model, and it comes with a series of practical updates to improve performance and reliability on the tough terrain it’s designed for. Key updates include revised suspension settings, upgraded cooling components, and refined ergonomics, alongside a new graphics package and Hardenduro-specific parts that set it apart from the rest of the KTM Enduro range.

Read KTM’s full press release…

With Manuel Lettenbichler already well on his way to his 5th Enduro World Championship, his weapon of choice needs little introduction. However, for 2026, the KTM 300EXC HardEnduro boasts key updates, with suspension, cooling, and overall design receiving significant refinements, set to take its domination of torturous terrain even further.

Since its launch in 2024, the KTM 300EXC HardEnduro has become the premier model in the KTM Enduro lineup, bringing Factory Racing expertise and championship-winning pedigree directly to the dealership floor. 

Being the ultimate in Enduro Competition motorcycles, the 2026 KTM 300 EXC HardEnduro receives a fresh graphics package, which features the typical KTM orange colour accentuated by a white and black colour palette, a gloss orange frame, and signature orange anodised KTM PowerParts. 

However, it’s updated hardware that will excite hardcore racing fans the most, starting with updates to the 48mm WP XACT Closed Cartridge fork, including the preload basevalve adjusters and an updated WP XPLOR PDS rear shock to keep things in balance. 

The fork receives new damping settings and new, lighter, shorter springs, as well as a new pressure reservoir that has been adapted to the new geometry of the spring support. A new one-piece hydro stop rounds out the updates to the front fork, which also results in an overall weight saving of 200g.

On the fuelling front, a new protection cap is added to the CPC fuel connector, which not only provides added protection against any outside damage but also prevents dirt from entering the sides of the connector. The cooling system has also received some upgrades by way of a new radiator cap with a standard thread, allowing for easier and faster opening, with a radiator fan fitted as standard equipment. 

HardEnduro Specific Highlights:

• Orange frame
• Factory wheel set
• Factory frame protector set
• Ribbed factory seat
• Map-select switch
• HardEnduro bar pad design
• Grey ODI lock-on grips extra soft
• Closed handguards
• Radiator fan
• Black anodized cnc machined triple clamps
• WP XACT closed-cartridge front fork featuring base-valve preload adjusters
• Skidplate
• Floating front brake disc
• Front brake disc guard
• Solid rear brake disc
• Rear brake safety wire
• Rear brake disc guard
• Orange oil plug
• Orange clutch slave cylinder protection
• Pull straps
• Black anodised engine hangers

The 2026 KTM 300EXC HardEnduro is the culmination of many years of R&D fighting at the sharp end of HardEnduro competition, bringing dynamic race-bred performance, focused ergonomics, and leading technology to the start line, with Euro 5+ homologation included. The 2026 KTM 300EXC HardEnduro will be available from authorised KTM dealerships in Australia and New Zealand from Q1 in 2026.