KTM Dirt Bikes – History And 2015 Bike Reviews


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KTM dirt bikes have become a competitive force not only in the enduro and trail scene, but also around the motocross track. Before the 2000’s this wasn’t the case in the American motocross world. However unlike their four main Japanese competitors (in MX & SX), KTM originates from Austria in Europe.

It began as a dirty ol’ metalworking/repair shop in 1934, kick-started by an engineer named Hans Trunkenpolz. Over the next few years they became one of the largest motorbike and car repair workshops in Upper Austria.

It was 1951 when KTM began developing its first motorcycle – the R-100. It was considered an engineering success and created quite a stir in the motorcycle industry.

With this new-found confidence in themselves as a motorcycle producer, they built a dedicated manufacturing plant in Mattighofen and officially founded KTM – which stands for “Kronreif, Trunkenpolz, Mattighofen” – the two founders names and the place where it all began.

Since then KTM dirt bikes have been crossing the finishing line first in many international events including the Paris To Dakar Rally and The Erzberg Rodeo, proving their engineering brilliance in the enduro scene.

KTM hit a spot of trouble in the early 90’s and found themselves up the proverbial creek without a paddle. They filed for bankruptcy and split the different sectors of the business into independent companies – KTM Motorcycles being the one we’re interested in here.

1995 was the year KTM bought out Husaberg, and in Jan 2013 KTM also acquired Husqvarna from the BMW group – so next time you see a Husky or Berg flying by just know they come from the same ‘birth mother’ as our orange friends.

In 2007 an Indian company called Bajaj Auto invested money into KTM and as of 2012 has around a 47% share.

Today KTM dirt bikes are everywhere you turn, whether you’re weaving through trails, riding the dunes or hitting the MX track, you’re bound to see a blur of black and orange tearing it up. And KTM are showing no signs of fading away in the near future as they continue to pour money into R&D, dress their bikes with premium components and win national and international racing championships.

Check out all the KTM models at www.ktmusa.com

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2015 KTM Dirt Bikes Reviews & Specs

2015 KTM 250sxf review and specs..

Model: 2015 KTM 250sxf

Engine Type: Single-cylinder, 4-stroke, spark-ignition engine, liquid-cooled

Fuel System: Carburetor

Fuel Capacity: 7.5 liters

Starting System: Electric starter – no kick start

Front Suspension: 300mm travel WP Suspension Up Side Down 4860 MXMA 4CS

Rear Suspension: 317mm travel WP Suspension 5018 BAVP DCC

Wheel Base: 1495mm

Seat Height: 992 mm

Weight Without Fuel: 102.2 kg

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2015 KTM 450sxf review and specs..

Model: 2015 KTM 450sxf

Engine Type: Single cylinder, 4-stroke, SOHC, 4-Valve

Fuel System: Carburetta

Fuel Capacity: 7.5 liters

Starting System: Electric starter – no kick start

Front Suspension: 300mm travel WP Suspension Up Side Down 4860 MXMA 4CS

Rear Suspension: 317mm travel WP Suspension 5018 BAVP DCC

Wheel Base: 1495mm

Seat Height: 992 mm

Weight Without Fuel: 106.8 kg

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2015 KTM 150sx & 250sx review and specs..

Model: 2015 KTM 150sx

Engine Type: 1-cylinder 2-stroke engine, water-cooled, with reed intake and exhaust control

Weight Without Fuel: 92.1 kg

Model: 2015 KTM 250sx

Engine Type: 1-cylinder 2-stroke engine, water-cooled, with reed intake and exhaust control

Weight Without Fuel: 97.5 kg

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KTM have a massive range of dirt bikes including two strokes and four strokes for kids up to adults. They have the most extensive list of off-road models that covers enduro, motocross / supercross, touring, and even electric dirt bikes. Their bikes these days remain unique however they’re now more similar to the Japanese bikes than they used to be back when many of the Japanese bike riders thought they were odd and not on par.

KTM are also one of the few companies left that continually update and improve their two stroke dirt bikes – and it shows when you look at the quality of their modern motocross and enduro bikes. It seems this has been a smart move by KTM as they’ve now built a huge fan base of loyal two stroke enthusiasts with very little competition.

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What Do You Think About KTM Dirt Bikes?

Have you ever owned a KTM? Maybe a vintage KTM? Tell us what you think of their four stroke and two stroke range. Do you know of any design faults or problems with particular models? Maybe you have a mechanical tip to share…

You can also use this forum to ask a KTM related question. Someone in the know may be able to help you.

Jim Harmer

I'm the co-owner of Dirt Bike Planet. I live in Star, Idaho and enjoy dirt biking with my wife and two boys throughout the Idaho mountains.

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