Motorcycle specifications KTM125 XC-W 2019 The first step in enduro

XC stands for cross-country. W stands for a gearbox with a large number of ratios. This model is designed for Enduro events on closed circuits, or for races where motorcycle homologation is not required. It will also please riders who prefer a bike without all the components required for homologation. The KTM 125 XC-W is simply the lightest Enduro bike available at an affordable price, but that doesn't mean it lacks power. It's when things get serious that you recognize the qualities of an XC-W.

engine and muffler

the engine of the KTM 125 XC-W is the strongest and most competitive unit in its class, delivering precisely the level of power demanded by an enduro rider. This 125 cm3 engine, the fruit of KTM's technical expertise, incorporates the latest technological innovations on the market. Despite its compact, lightweight structure, it delivers monstrous power and monumental torque across the entire rev range.

cylinder

this ultra-compact cylinder, with a bore of 54 mm, features cutting-edge exhaust control and a sophisticated mechanism for the side support exhaust channels. Combined with the two-piece cylinder head, this design is responsible for a clear increase in power across the range. The layout of the water jackets inside the cylinder and cylinder head ensures efficient heat dissipation in the event of heavy engine use. The 150 cm3 cylinder, cylinder head and piston can now also be mounted on this engine base to convert it to a 150 without replacing the crankshaft. And to top it all off, lightweight side brackets have been added to secure the engine to the frame.

crankshaft

a model of reliability, the engine has been carefully balanced to minimize vibrations. By simply replacing the cylinder, piston and cylinder head, displacement has been reduced to 125 cm3. As the crankshaft remained the same, the engineers killed two birds with one stone.

gearbox

another interesting innovation designed specifically for the 2-stroke Enduro engine is a robust 6-speed gearbox perfectly suited to the 125's range of use. The reduction in weight and size of the engine was made possible by the use of ultra-modern production technologies. As safety is also an essential parameter, the selector adopts a new "zero dirt" design that prevents the lever joint from jamming due to dirt.

piston

the piston has been optimized for maximum reliability, and its shape is perfectly matched to the layout of the avant-garde cylinder.

clutch

the clutch is activated by a hydraulic system manufactured by Brembo. This ultra-reliable, self-adjusting system guarantees smooth operation and perfect clutch modulation.

carburetor

the KTM 125 XC-W is equipped with a MIKUNI TMX carburetor. This 38-mm flat-barrel carburetor offers a clear improvement in power delivery right up to the rev limiter.

contact

all 2-stroke models feature a CDI gearbox and advanced components designed to improve engine starting behavior. Ignition curves remain unchanged.

cooling

kTM's proven integrated cooling system circulates coolant from the cylinder head via the frame wishbone to the aluminum radiators supplied by WP. Its incredible efficiency is due to improved management of internal airflow and advances in ventilation thanks to CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) calculations. Radiator guards offer the advantage of better heat dissipation. This is all the more true in the presence of mud. Integrated into the front spoilers, these radiator guards are particularly useful in the event of an impact.

frame

the high-tech chromium-molybdenum steel frame is a model of lightness, flexibility and maneuverability, offering excellent stability and devilishly precise cornering. Thanks to its high torsional stiffness and low longitudinal rigidity, this frame absorbs the energy generated by the front and rear suspensions when jumping or going over a bump. The ride is more comfortable and less tiring. The dropouts that link the cylinder head to the frame are as light as ever. Mounted laterally, they help limit vibration levels. Two threaded inserts have been provided in the lower cradle tubes to add a shoe, should the need arise. The engineers can be proud of their work, as the frame is now one kilo lighter than the lightest competing frame on the market today. Every effort has also been made to facilitate maintenance and free up space for the tank and other components. The ultra-light buckle, made of stable aluminum profiles, weighs in at less than 900 grams.

swingarm

the design optimizes the position of the PDS shock absorber for even smoother entry into action. In addition to its lightness, cast aluminum is ideal for bending. The one-piece molding process eliminates the imperfections inherent in welding, guaranteeing a more homogeneous, but also more meticulous, manufacturing quality.

wheels

when it comes to wheels, KTM engineers know their stuff. Equipped with ultra-light CNC-machined hubs and top-of-the-range Giant rims, the wheels of the KTM 125 XC-W guarantee maximum stability despite limited weight. To top it all off, they're fitted with the latest generation of MAXXIS tires. Whatever the terrain, these tires deliver maximum traction.

front suspension

the WP XPlor 48 upside-down fork is a fork with separate damping circuits, developed by WP in close collaboration with KTM. Each fork arm has a different spring and a different function: the left arm handles compression damping, while the right arm handles rebound. To fine-tune each of these settings, simply turn the knob at the top of the fork. To limit the risk of bottoming, the fork is equipped with a watertight hydraulic stop. High-quality materials, an ultra-sophisticated production process, 300 mm of travel: nothing has been left to chance to make the WP XPlor 48 fork the ultimate in responsiveness and damping. The preload ring (available as retrofit) allows easy adjustment of spring preload to three levels (standard, +3 mm, +6 mm), without the need for tools.

rear suspension

a true KTM trademark, the PDS shock absorber is connected directly to the upper part of the swingarm. As a result, engineers were able to mount it in the most appropriate position for even more progressive damping. As the shock absorber has been moved closer to the central axis, the loads exerted on the swingarm and frame are virtually symmetrical. This also frees up space for the exhaust system. The second piston, combined with a cup-shaped limit stop (instead of a needle-type one) and supported by a progressive-action spring, guarantees excellent resistance to bottoming. With its various machined and anodized components and its characteristic WP color scheme, this ultra-sophisticated shock absorber makes a strong impression compared to less well finished competing products.

fork crown

kTM XC-W models feature forged fork crowns with a 22 mm offset for improved fork retention and even more precise front-end behavior. Four positions are available on the XC-W to move the handlebars forward or back for a perfect grip.

brakes

more responsive, more efficient and more powerful than ever, Brembo calipers will cope with any situation. These little jewels of technology are combined with Wave brake discs, renowned for their lightness. The stainless-steel front brake hose features effective protection and a cable guide for the speedo wire. Optimum braking power is a must when you intend to push your machine.

fuel tank

thanks to its transparent plastic, the ultra-light 9.5-liter polyethylene fuel tank lets you know at a glance how much fuel is left. To refuel, simply press the orange button in the center of the fuel cap to open the bayonet mechanism.

air filter housing

the air filter housing has been designed to protect the air filter from clogging and ensure optimum airflow. The cage in which the extra-large Twin Air filter is housed is totally rigid, helping to hold the system in place. The design is so simple that you could replace the filter even with your face covered in mud. And you don't need any tools. And in a matter of seconds.

handlebars

when it comes to handlebars, KTM engineers have always known which way to go. This NEKEN handlebar, with its high-strength aluminum profile, is no exception. It features a throttle response mechanism, sturdy aluminum handlebars and an ultra-simple guard adjustment system. right: an ODI vulcanized handle; left: the ODI lock-on handle, as comfortable as it is practical, thanks to its glue- and wire-free mounting system.

footrests

sophisticated "zero-dirt" footrests prevent the gear selector from getting dirty, even when driving through deep ruts. To enhance ground clearance, the gear selector on Enduro models has been raised by 6 mm compared to that on SX versions. But you're free to change it if you like.

styling and graphics

kTM factory riders collaborated on the bike's design with KTM R&D specialists and the Kiska design agency, with a single watchword: to create perfect harmony between rider and machine. The result is convincing. Ergonomics and contact points for the rider have been carefully designed to enhance freedom of movement and comfort on the XC-W. The special shape of the front and rear mudguards guarantees maximum stability and minimum weight, thanks to a well thought-out structure and assembly. Best of all, they stay clean longer. The clever mounting of the brake hose on the cross front plate also reduces wear and tear.

Information and images credits: KTM