Review – Key Features – Features & Benefits – Specifications
2024 KTM 500 XW-F: ULTIMATE 500cc WEAPON.
Introducing the 2024 KTM 500 XW-F…
Heading off to explore an abandoned town? Done. Churning dirt in a haunted forest? Easy. Charging through the deep sandy deserts? Let’s go! The new 2024 KTM 500 XW-F doesn’t shy away from anything. Built around an all-new frame with best-in-class suspension, this large-displacement powerhouse is surprisingly usable, making the KTM 500 XW-F the ultimate half-liter weapon in anyone’s offroad arsenal.
2024 KTM 500 XW-F Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
CHALLENGE ACCEPTED! THE 2024 KTM ENDURO RANGE IS HERE TO REDEFINE LIMITS
Sporting 95% new components, the 2024 KTM Enduro range is moving the goalposts further than ever before. Featuring an all-new frame, revolutionary closed-cartridge suspension, refined bodywork, LED headlight, industry-defining technology, and two new models, the latest generation of KTM Enduro machines is ready to accept any challenge.
With over three decades of racing experience and more than 126 World Enduro titles in the trophy cabinet, KTM has remained the weapon of choice when it comes to taking on the world’s toughest terrain. For the 2024 model year, the KTM Enduro range continues to raise the bar in the areas of performance, development, and innovation with its most radical transformation to date.
An all-new hydro-formed, laser-cut, and robot-welded frame forms the backbone of the 2024 KTM Enduro range. This brings new longitudinal and torsional flex parameters for unmatched rider feedback, energy absorption, and straight-line stability to the riding experience but also provides the foundation on which the 2024 model range is built.
Upfront, the full range now boasts an all-new 48 mm WP XACT Closed Cartridge spring fork, featuring a new mid-valve piston concept that optimizes oil flow within the cartridge.
The KTM Enduro models continue to feature the proven PDS shock system, which for 2024, is updated and optimized to work fluidly with the new frame concept. This is mated to a new WP XPLOR PDS rear shock.
As an industry first, the suspension at both ends remains fully adjustable for compression and damping by way of hand clickers, without the need for any tools, and easy set preload adjustability on the rear.
An all-new lightweight 2-piece subframe, constructed from a combination of polyamide and reinforced aluminum, delivers outstanding handling and rider feedback, as well as remarkable robustness. All electronic components, including an all-new Offroad Control Unit, are fully integrated into the subframe for easy access and improved protection.
At the surface level, the 2024 KTM Enduro range benefits from new bodywork all around. This has been developed with input from the FMF KTM Factory racers to deliver an improved rider triangle for better knee contact, especially when standing on the pegs.
A new front fender design now also features mud-repelling fins for expelling dirt and mud from hitting the rider or radiators, while a new transparent, polythene (XPE) fuel tank (2.24-gallon/8.5-liter 4-stroke and 2.37-gallon/9-liter 2-stroke) provides easyfuel level monitoring and completes the bodywork package.
Monitoring the electronics comes courtesy of a totally independent OCU under the seat, which replaces the use of electronic fuses and relays. In the event of any electrical component failure, the outputs are deactivated individually, with the error status of each unit indicated by a red or green LED light. This makes for quick and easy troubleshooting on the trail.
In terms of engines, the 2-stroke model range once again takes its place as the leader of the oil-burners, debuting new electronic Throttle Body Injection technology. Dubbed TBI for short, it provides almost carburetor levels of ultra-smooth power delivery, while eliminating the need for re-jetting at different altitudes.
The reed valve case has also received an important design update, with new plastic flaps on the outside of the reed valve case for improved sealing of the intake tract. This new design avoids fuel excess in extreme up- or downhill sections which could lead to the fueling running rich.
A beneficial side effect of the new electronic fuel injection and the ECU is implementing the new electronic exhaust control, allowing for two different engine maps, selectable via an optional Map Select switch.
The 4-stroke offering includes three distinct model ranges for 2024, the dual-sport EXC-F models, the new, 50-state off-highway compliant XW-F offering, and the pure competition-focused KTM 450 XCF-W. All models in the 4-stroke range benefit from class-winning engines, engineered to deliver massive torque down low with an explosive power delivery at higher RPMs.
An improved center of gravity was achieved by tilting the engine 2° backward and repositioning the front sprocket 3 mm lower, for greatly improved handling and maneuverability. Together with the benefits of mass centralization and reduced weight, the anti-squat behavior of the chassis was significantly improved, enhancing traction on extreme inclines and powering out of corners in special enduro stages.
The 2024 KTM 450 XCF-W also debuts the optional Traction Control and, for the first time ever on an enduro machine, Quickshifter function. The latter makes for clutchless upshifts from 2nd to 6th gear, allowing riders to keep the throttle pinned open while upshifting through the gears for improved control. These can be toggled on or off via an optional and newly designed Map Select Switch.
The 2024 KTM Enduro range is the culmination of many years at the top end of Enduro competition, bringing together a dynamic combination of race-bred performance, ergonomics, and technology to challenge any terrain and redefine limits. The new XW-F models open up new ground for offroad riders thanks to 50-state off-highway compliant emissions and a USFS Approved spark arrestor as standard.
As always, owing to KTM’s global networks of dealers, the availability of support and parts needed to compete at the highest level is easily accessible, with the added availability of dedicated KTM PowerWear and KTM PowerParts, which have been designed to allow for the highest levels of performance, protection, and mobility for all offroad riders and racers.
2024 KTM 500 XW-F Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
SETTING THE SAG
Adjustability
Getting READY TO RACE has never been easier. Thanks in part to its all-new suspension, the 2024 KTM XW-F range boasts totally tool-free suspension setup at both ends. At the rear, our legendary, race-winning PDS technology features an all-new shock absorber design with hand-adjustable dual compression controls. This allows riders to adjust high- and low-speed settings in a matter of seconds. On the front, the forks are also easily adjusted thanks to hand-adjustable clickers on the bottom of the fork shoe and on the fork top cap, making changing settings on the fly as easy as twisting the throttle.
DEEP BREATH
Air filter box
Maximum airflow with minimal water intrusion, a new air filter box is designed with precisely positioned inlet ducts aimed at preventing air deformation and maintaining filter protection. An enduro-specific splash protector under the airbox prevents water or dirt from splashing up from the rear wheel, while the Twin Air filter and air filter support design feature a simple fail-proof mounting system for secure and accurate filter installation, ensuring the air filter is easily accessed, without tools, for fast track-side maintenance.
FULLY FUELED
Fuel Tank
The transparent, polythene (XPE) fuel tank is a signature element of the KTM Enduro lineup. Having undergone thorough race testing in everything from the GNCC to the hardest of FIM hard enduros, these tanks are built, well, like tanks! For 2024, a one-piece fuel pump and filter improves the fuel supply, while making servicing easier with easy fuel filter access, so you can hit the trail with utmost confidence.
SWITCH IT UP
Switchgear
For 2024, the KTM 500 XW-F receives a new, easy-to-use start/stop switch on the right side of the handle bar which allows for a simple and intuitive start/stop of the engine.
SLEDGEHAMMER
Engine
Warp speed, engaged! The KTM 500 XW-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.
SMARTER ELECTRONICS
Offroad Control Unit
An all-new Offroad Control Unit – or OCU – under the seat replaces all the electronic fuses and relays. All outputs are switched depending on signals from the voltage regulator and the ECU continuously. In the event of over-current, outputs are deactivated individually. This makes for easy error detection as the status of each output is indicated by a red or green LED light. This means diagnosing an electrical issue out on the trail is as easy as lifting the seat, and there’s no more need to carry fiddly fuses.
LITHIUM POWERED
Battery & Wiring Harness
As with the rest of the KTM 4-stroke range, the KTM 500 XW-F is fitted with a proven, reliable electric start system. Powered by an ultra lightweight 2 Ah lithium-ion starter battery, it provides reliable starting time and time again, while the wiring harness has most of the electrical components carefully positioned under the seat for easy accessibility.
FLUID RIDER MOTION
Ergonomics
The 2024 KTM XW-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.
UNMATCHED PERFORMANCE
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, so it looks good while being a key componenet in making the new KTM 500 XW-F 50-state off-highway compliant.
BUILT TO BE THE BACKBONE
Frame
Specifically engineered for longitudinal rigidity, the 2024 KTM XW-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.
MORE THAN A SUBFRAME
Subframe
A new ultra-light lightweight 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.
UNFLAPPABLE FRONT END
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.
GET THE POWER DOWN
WP XACT Shock
Remaining a hallmark of KTM Enduro weaponry, an updated PDS rear shock concept sees a new shock mount that significantly improves the anti-squat behavior of the chassis. This remains the most reliable and maintenance-friendly option for technical offroad riding. Moreover, an all-new WP XPLOR PDS rear shock now takes charge at the rear, weighing 380 g less than the previous generation unit. It features a new compact design, new bearings seals, and a new main piston for optimized oil flow, and improved, consistent damping, as well as providing full adjustability thanks to easy-to-use hand clickers for adjustments on the fly.
WHERE RUBBER MEETS DIRT
Wheels and Tires
The KTM 500 XW-F rolls on a set of high-strength GIANT alloy wheels coupled to CNC-machined hubs and aluminum nipples. These are wrapped in a Dunlop MX33 up front and a Dunlop AT 81 on the rear, providing exceptional traction in all conditions.
HOLD THE LINE
Stability
The 2024 KTM XW-F range remains rock-solid at any speed thanks to a repositioned and forged steering head connection and 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 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.
FIGHTING FATIGUE
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.
SEE INTO THE FUTURE
LED headlight
Lighting the way forward, the 2024 KTM XW-F range features a completely new LED headlight unit and light mask. The mask itself features improved triple clamp protection against roost and does away with the rubber mounting straps for improved fitment. Most importantly, the LED lighting unit provides 300% more illumination, making riding in the dark a completely new experience.
2024 KTM 500 XW-F – Totalmotorcycle.com International Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $ See Dealer for pricing in USD
Canada MSRP Price: $ See Dealer for Pricing CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ See Dealer for pricing in GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
Engine
Transmission 6-speed
Starter Electric starter
Stroke 72mm
Bore 95mm
Clutch Wet, DDS multi-disc clutch, Brembo hydraulics
Displacement 510.9cm³
EMS Keihin EMS
Design 1-cylinder, 4-stroke engine
Chassis
Front brake disc diameter 260mm
Rear brake disc diameter 220mm
Front brake Disc brake
Rear brake Disc brake
Chain 520 X-Ring
Frame design Central double-cradle-type 25CrMo4 steel
Front suspension WP XACT-USD, Ø 48 mm
Rear suspension XACT WP PDS mono shock
Steering head angle 63.9°
Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).
