2018 KTM 500 EXC-F

The KTM 500 EXC-F is the strongest dual sport bike in the world, although that doesn t mean it s hard to control. This motorcycle is as lean and civilized as a thoroughbred race horse. But let it rip, and its 4-stroke SOHC engine blasts the cutting-edge chassis across any terrain you choose. Ahead of the competition. No sweat, just glory.

• ENGINE

Small in dimensions, sky-high on output. The KTM 500 EXC-F s fuel-injected powerhouse makes it the most compact and lightest 500 on the market, while delivering groundbreaking torque and power figures over the entire rev range thanks to a single overhead camshaft cylinder head and the latest electronic fuel injection. Class-leading and cutting-edge: just the way we like it.

• CYLINDER HEAD

A single overhead camshaft controls intake and exhaust through optimized ports, while a cutting-edge combustion chamber and water jacket create mind-blowing power while managing heat. The engine s four valves rely on extremely rigid rocker arms. Double lateral brackets fix the engine to the frame and reduce vibrations.

• CRANKSHAFT

The KTM 500 EXC-F s crankshaft utilizes a short connecting rod, which makes for an overall compact and lightweight engine with a snappy power delivery. A plain big (bottom) end bearing with two force-fitted bearing shells runs directly on the crank pin. The necessary oil feed for this bearing is ensured by the engine s pressurized lubrication. This design is a decisive benefit in terms of the crankshaft service interval, which can be lengthened due to the plain bearing. So just pin it, all day long.

• TRANSMISSION

The reliable 6-speed transmission features a special surface treatment on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th gears for solid reliability. The advanced ´No Dirt´ gear shift lever design prevents dirt from jamming the joint of the lever and guarantees precise shifting even in the muddiest conditions. For 2018 the transmission shaft gets a new bearing that has a bigger overlap in the cases. This means reliability even under extremely hard conditions. Think GP-level riding. In knee-deep sand. And a new, stronger shifting star made of MIM steel (metal injected molding) improves reliability even further.

• CRANKCASES AND ENGINE COVERS

The design of the die-cast crankcases allows for minimal weight and a very centralized shaft configuration. This makes the engine short and compact, while contributing to an efficient centralization of masses. The engine covers also feature a solid surface structure, which reduces the wear caused by the rider s boots. This way, your EXC-F will keep looking better longer.

• E-STARTER

The KTM 500 EXC-F is fitted with a unique E-starter as standard, which is a clear advantage when it comes to crunch time in the heat of ba