KTM has introduced some new off-road-oriented bikes, including the 2024 500 EXC-F in its 2023 model lineup. Fans of KTM may be familiar with this dual sport, as it has made its rounds in the past, but the Austria-based bike builder has stated the ‘24 model is 95% new compared to last year’s iteration.
The 500 EXC-F uses a 510.9cc single-cylinder engine which appears to be an updated version of the previous model’s powerplant. KTM has not officially released power numbers for this thumper, although they do say that it is both lighter and more powerful than the outgoing version, which made roughly 58 hp and 28 lb-ft of torque. An optional quickshifter is available to add to the bike’s six-speed gearbox in order to make full use of those new ponies.
As an off-road-oriented bike, the suspension is key on the 500 EXC-F, and KTM certainly hasn’t disappointed in that department as brand new WP XACT front & rear suspension is standard on the EXC-F. This new setup uses the latest in WP’s world-class suspension development and is apparently fully adjustable by hand, without the need for tools, which should allow for the ultimate on the fly fine-tuning.
In the electronics department, the 500 EXC has received a slew of new features, including an optional traction control and a new “offroad control unit, which trades the fuse box for a series of LEDS, intended to make diagnosing electronic issues easier than ever. The bike is also equipped with two unique engine maps, which can be switched using an optional map button. Both maps offer a different power delivery experience.
The 500 dual-sport bike has a new LED headlight fitted within the iconic orange plastics.
This truly looks like a well-deserved overhaul for the beloved dual sport, and we can’t wait to start seeing them in showrooms, on streets, and on dirt roads.
The 2024 KTM 500 EXC-F starts at $12,949 USD/$14,849 CAD
On this page:we’ve curated specs, features, news, photos/videos, etc., so you can read up on the new 2024 KTM 500 EXC-F in one place.
Warp speed, engaged! The KTM 500 EXC-F is an undeniable powerhouse. Weighing in at a mere 65 lb (29.5 kg), it’s not only more powerful but lighter than the previous generation engine too. For 2024, it’s been designed with mass centralization in mind, tilting the engine 2° backwards and repositioning the sprocket 3 mm lower. The result? An improved center of gravity, better handling, maneuverability, and anti-squat behavior.
Exhaust
The exhaust system is designed to deliver hard-hitting performance at the lowest possible weight and noise. The 2-piece header pipe design is made to be as compact as possible, with the routing of the header pipe extremely close to the engine for maximum of mass centralization and minimum exposure to rocks. A short, compact silencer is crafted from lightweight aluminum and finished in a premium matt black coating.
Crankshaft
The KTM 500 EXC-F’s crankshaft is located in an ideal position close to the center of gravity, contributing to easier handling. It 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 engine’s pressurized lubrication system provides the necessary oil feed for this bearing. This design has a direct benefit for the crankshaft with extended service intervals, which are lengthened due to the plain bearing. So just pin it, all day long.
Ergonomics
The 2024 KTM EXC-F range features a rider-focussed body-position triangle, providing improved knee contact – especially when standing on the pegs – with improved gripping surfaces all around. With the plastics working to expel mud buildup in wet, muddy conditions, a flat seat profile with a high grip seat cover providing exceptional rider movement and control, and a polyamide-reinforced aluminum subframe providing unmatched rider feel and feedback, your only concern is navigating the terrain ahead of you.
Frame
Specifically engineered for longitudinal rigidity, the 2024 KTM EXC-F range is engineered around an all-new black powder-coated frame providing exceptional rider feedback, energy absorption, and high-speed stability. This has been achieved by repositioning the rotating masses in the frame and the inclusion of a forged steering head connection. The footrest mounts have also been moved inwards, slimming things down for less risk of hooking up. And when the ride comes to an end, a completely redesigned forged one-piece side stand ensures your enduro weapon stands proud.
Subframe
A new ultra-light subframe takes charge at the rear of the main frame, featuring a 2-part polyamide and reinforced aluminum construction. With the help of computational dynamics, a specific rigidity was engineered into the subframe to deliver outstanding handling and rider feedback. The new subframe is also shorter, more compact, and more robust than the previous generation, with the ability to bend and flex in the event of a crash, rather than break. The subframe fully integrates the electronic components, without any extra need for brackets, holders, or unnecessary fixtures.
WP XACT Closed-cartidge Fork
An all-new 48 mm WP XACT Closed Cartridge spring fork finds its way into the KTM Enduro line-up for 2024. Providing fast and consistent damping, optimized oil flow, and a new hydro stop in the last 68 mm of the stroke, the forks ensure unmatched performance at any level. New fork protection rings also provide improved protection against dirt intrusion. Best of all, the new fork allows for full adjustment of compression and rebound without the need for any tools.
Stability
The 2024 KTM EXC-F range remains rock-solid at any speed thanks to a repositioned and forged steering head connection and CNC-milled triple clamps. Made from high-grade aluminum, these feature optimally tuned steering stem stiffness, perfect alignment of the fork tubes, and precise geometry of the fork clamps to ensure highly responsive and smooth fork action – not to mention unwavering stability for those ultra-fast flat-out special stages. Newly designed, topology-optimized rubber-mounted bar mounts provide an increased grip surface for less handlebar twist. They come with a fixed mounting, providing the perfect amount of flex for the forged triple clamp setup.
Energy Absorbtion
Besides the expertly crafted, hydro-formed, laser-cut, and robot-welded frame being engineered to provide exceptional rider feedback and straight-line stability, a number of components were specifically designed so the frame acts as a “shock absorber,” resulting in less rider fatigue over many hard laps. A new shock mounting, no longer connected to the main tube, significantly improves the anti-squat of the chassis. Up front, a new, service-friendly one-piece steering head seal provides improved reliability. The closed-head tube design also provides a new routing for the fuel overflow.
2024 KTM 500 EXC-F Photos
2024 KTM 500 EXC-F Videos
2024 KTM 500 EXC-F EXCLUSIVE PREVIEW by Taco Moto Co:
