First Look: 2022 KTM Enduro Range

Back in May, when we got our first glimpse of KTM’s 2022 enduro bike range, our social media channels lit up – not so much because the range came in for sweeping changes (far from it), but because every man and his dog, it seemed, felt compelled to pass comment about the bike’s revised looks. In short, an overwhelming majority of you said you liked the fact the 2021 models’ grey sideplates were ditched (“Thankfully, they painted over the 2021 models’ underpaint”) and that KTM had incorporated a splash of blue (a la KTM’s 2022 MX machines) for 2022. Meanwhile, opinions about the retro graphics on KTM’s 2022 Six Days models’ were more, shall we say, mixed.

But with everyone was getting lost down an aesthetics rabbit hole, there was very little talk about the new range’s actual upgrades. So, let’s take stock of the notable mods these bikes got for 2022, and insert a few quotes from KTM’s PR to explain the rationale and/or benefit of the changes. Here goes:

• All new models receive updated WP suspension settings – “This is aimed at offering a firmer and even more planted feel while riding across the gnarliest terrain. With the now firmer, sportier settings on their WP fork and rear shock, 2022 EXC-F models come with improved high-speed performance.”

• All models are fitted with a new Maxxis MaxxEnduro tyres – “After extensive testing, the new tyre combo showed improved durability and puncture-resistance and will provide even comfort for extended hours across a myriad of surfaces.”

• The 250EXC TPI gets revised 13:52 gearing – “This modification will help the quarter-litre in terms of traction and front-end lift on the most technical sections.”

• And those new graphics – “For 2022, KTM has visually emphasised the connection with competition even further through the incorporation of blue colors and the blue seat. The graphics and race plastics ensure that any KTM EXC will not be missed right at the front of the pack.”

• Meanwhile, with the 2022 Six-Days models – “KTM designers have gone bold with the introduction of a striking new colorway that perfectly mixes elements of a modern world map with a head-turning retro style. Featuring a long list of race-inspired parts as standard, the 2022 Six-Days models are ready to take on the gruelling week-long event out of their crate.”

WP SUSPENSION MODS – IN MORE DETAIL

According to KTM’s PR, “For 2022, together with WP suspension, KTM has adjusted the stock settings (firmer and sportier) to achieve several notable improvements. The XPLOR forks come with reduced seal friction for the outer tube, a polished spring for less pollution of the oil, and the upper cartridge screw connection has a 2mm gap compared to the four 6mm holes on the previous edition of the kit that enhances the rebound damping.

“The PDS shock now boasts better resistance to bottoming-out whereas a new O-ring is less prone to deformative, wear and fading.”

2022 KTM EXC RANGE – UPGRADES AT A GLANCE

• Revised WP suspension settings for a firmer and more responsive feel.
• Improved oil circulation in the suspension for more consistent feedback.
• New Maxxis MaxxEnduro tyres for unmatched grip in all terrain.
• New 13:52 gearing giving the KTM 250EXC TPI added bottom-end punch.
• Head-turning 2022 colors inspired by the Factory bikes.
• Bold design and retro colors for the revamped KTM EXC Six Days line-up.

According to KTM Product Manager, Joachim Sauer, “It gives us great pride to know that our KTM EXC models can once again supply any off-road rider with the excitement and the performance they need. In their updated trims, these bikes are technical masterpieces and there is something to suit every rider across the globe. For 2022, with the new WP suspension settings, we are offering the bikes a more firm and even more consistent feel. Matched with the new Maxxis tyres, these are two key upgrades that elevate the overall off-road performance. Our design team have also stepped-up with their work for this year and the bikes look exactly like what they are supposed to be: winners in all conditions.”

The 2022 KTM EXC models will be available in authorised KTM dealers in Australia and New Zealand from July, 2021, while the 2022 KTM EXC Six Days models will be available in Australia from October and New Zealand from November.

2022 MODELS – PRICING

KTM Australia has just released their 2022 model pricing (see the table above for details). Compared with their 2021 counterparts, the 2022 EXC/EXC-F models get a price hike of $540-$650, while the 2022 Six Days and Erzberg models see increases of $640-$715, depending on the model/capacity.