The 2021 KTM Freeride SX-E 5 is a gigantic leap forward for both the enjoyment of motocross for the 2021 year, as well as for junior motocrossers that want to join the electric revolution. That is because the Freeride SX-E isn’t powered by something as coarse or rough as gas.
Instead, it is powered by a 48 Volt permanent magnet motor that delivers instantaneous torque and at max output, produces the equivalent of 6.5 HP. It’s just what we’ve come to expect from this experienced European manufacturer.
KTM and its ingenuity has invested heavily into electrification, mostly due to the emerging arena of electric motocross and electric supercross. Following on from the example set by Formula-E, these competitions are becoming more and more prevalent and KTM is leading the way.
While the SX-E is aimed squarely at junior riders, it is but the beginning of an emerging model class that KTM will compete with companies such as Yamaha, Kawasaki, and even Segway to reach the top of the podium. For junior riders that have been on a motocross bike before this one, there are 6 ride modes, from absolute beginner through to experienced racer, which unlocks the full power of the motor.
The 2021 KTM Freeride SX-E 5 starts at $5,099 USD / $5,899 CAD.
On this page:we’ve curated specs, features, news, photos/videos, etc. so you can read up on the new 2021 KTM Freeride SX-E 5 in one place.
Model Overview
General Info
Price: $5,099 USD / $5,899 CAD
Key Features:
Quick-charging, air-cooled battery and motor
Average charging time of 70 minutes from 0 to 100%
WP XPLOR Pro racing shocks included
Main Specs
Engine Type: 48 V permanent magnet electric motor
Horsepower: Equivalent to 6.5 HP at max output
Torque: Variable due to the nature of electric motors
The permanent magnet motor features an extremely compact and slim design well suited to the smaller chassis. It is air-cooled and due to its dust and waterproof layout, the motor is wear- and maintenance-free. The integrated control unit (ECU) guarantees a direct, but very controllable power delivery.
Brakes
Featuring the same level of technology offered on the full-size motocross range, the SX-E 5 is fitted with hydraulically-operated brake callipers and waved front and rear brake discs. The system ensures advanced brake feeling and stopping performance in all conditions.
Rear suspension
The high quality WP XACT shock absorber is linked directly to the new cast swingarm, providing excellent damping performance. It is fully adjustable, meaning you can set the damping perfectly to suit the rider’s preference and track conditions. The shock absorber allows for 185 mm of rear wheel travel.
Front suspension
The KTM SX-E 5 has a modern, fully adjustable air fork: the WP XACT, made by WP Suspension. This upside-down front fork with 35 mm tube diameter and 205 mm of travel ensures outstanding comfort, damping characteristics and directional stability. Another main benefit for junior riders is that the air spring fitted in the left fork leg can be adjusted perfectly to the rider’s weight using a simple air pump.
Wheels
Like the full-size KTM Factory racers, the KTM SX-E 5 has super lightweight, black, anodized, aluminum rims providing the highest strength and safety. The OEM MAXXIS knobbly tires grip superbly on any surface.
Frame
The modern frame is made of lightweight, high-strength chromoly steel profiles and combines maximum longitudinal stiffness with optimum torsional rigidity. The subframe is made of lightweight, fiber-glass reinforced extruded plastic elements. It can be mounted in two positions for different seat heights. Together, they guarantee easy handling and precise cornering, as well as outstanding stability.
Handlebar
The KTM SX-E 5 uses tapered NEKEN handlebars, made of a high-quality aluminum alloy ensuring top stability and safety. Its diameter tapers from 28 mm in the central area, to 22 mm in the bends, to 18 mm in the handhold area. This allows for a thinner lock-on ODI grip to be mounted on the left side while the right side features a newly developed throttle assembly with a vulcanized ODI grip, specifically developed for the electronic drive. The thinner diameter provides better grip for young riders while riding increasing control and drastically reducing fatigue. A crash pad on the handlebar brace protects the rider from rough contact.
Seat height
The seat height on the KTM SX-E 5 can be adjusted to multiple levels. The standard model comes with a seat height of 665 mm, which can easily be reduced to 615 mm in two steps by: 1) lowering the bodywork/seat and: 2) mounting the rear shock in an alternative position, as well as lowering the front fork in the triple clamps. Additionally, by using a Suspension Lowering Kit from the accessories catalog, the suspension units can be further lowered for a minimum seat height of just 560 mm which accommodates the smallest of riders of four years old or even younger.
Ride modes
Using the multifunctional instrument located between steering head and seat, the user can select between the six different ride modes. Each mode offers different power characteristics suited for pure beginners all the way up to experienced racers. The instrument also displays the remaining charge of the battery.
