Motorcycle specifications KTM500 EXC-F Six Days 2019 Strength in trial

Here's a hard-hitting enduro to take on the most famous event of its kind. The fastest and most imposing model in the KTM motocross range, this KTM 500 EXC-F SIX DAYS is a tribute to the world of motocross. The SIX DAYS special editions feature significant performance enhancements and a range of special components and accessories. As the 2018 ISDE (International Six Days of Enduro) event took place in Viña del Mar, Chile, the entire SIX DAYS range features touches of red, white and blue in homage to the country's colors.

six Days equipment

- Six Days saddle for optimum comfort over long distances
- Exclusive Six Days graphics in a striking design
- Power curve change knob-on the handlebars
- Handlebars with Six Days logo
- Six Days muffler (anthracite anodized, with Six Days logo)
- Orange-anodized machined fork crowns for perfect fit and function
- Cooling fan on all 4-stroke models for optimum temperature management in extreme conditions
- Floating front brake disc for even braking in extreme conditions
- Solid rear brake disc (non-perforated) for improved thermal resistance and reduced brake pad wear
- Supersprox Stealth bi-metal rear crown with aluminum inner crown and toothed steel outer crown for unrivalled durability
- Axle puller for rapid front-wheel removal
- Orange frame
- Engine guard
- Orange chain guide

engine

even though the KTM 500 EXC-F generates mind-boggling maximum power and torque, it retains its compact dimensions. Equipped with a single overhead camshaft cylinder head and electronic fuel injection for maximum power across the rev range, its engine is one of the lightest of the 500cc class. It's easy to see why it's considered one of the best engines on the market.

cylinder head

the single overhead camshaft controls intake and exhaust via optimized ports. The state-of-the-art combustion chamber and water jacket take care of combustion quality and heat dissipation. The four valves are operated by ultra-rigid rocker arms. To dampen vibrations, the engine is securely fastened to the frame by two side brackets.

crankshaft

the crankshaft of the KTM 500 EXC-F uses a shortened connecting rod. More compact and lighter, the engine also gains in responsiveness. The crankshaft is fitted with a connecting-rod head bearing and two bearing shells press-fitted directly into the crankpin. This bearing is supplied with oil from the engine's pressure lubrication system. This type of design, combined with the connecting-rod bearing, greatly extends the crankshaft's service interval.

crankcases and covers

the design of molded crankcases offers two advantages: maximum weight reduction and a highly centralized shaft configuration, for even greater engine compactness and more efficient weight distribution. Crankcase covers feature a solid surface structure designed to reduce wear caused by the rider's boots.

gearbox

to enhance the reliability of the 6-speed gearbox, the surface of the pinions has been specially treated for 2nd, 3rd and 4th gears. The "zero dirt" design of the selector prevents the lever joint from clogging and jamming, and guarantees ultra-precise gear changes even on the muddiest terrain. All EXC-F 4-stroke engines are equipped with an engaged-gear sensor to adapt engine characteristics to each speed.

engine management

keihin engine management with electronic fuel injection features a 42 mm throttle body. Thanks to the injector's unique position, engine response is truly instantaneous. And because idle and cold start do not use the same circuits, on-site adjustment is much easier. Once the engine is sufficiently warm, simply lower the throttle to deactivate the cold-start mode.

cylinder and piston

the 95 mm-bore cylinder houses a forged bridge-box piston with an ultra-light piston pin. The geometry of the piston head, perfectly adapted to the combustion chamber, features a rigid structure and reduced weight. Reduced oscillating masses give the engine its smooth, energetic character.

balancer shaft

to balance mass forces, the KTM 500 EXC-F engine uses a multi-function, side-mounted balancer shaft that also controls the water pump. perfectly balanced, it minimizes vibrations even at full throttle.

clutch

the KTM 500 EXC-F uses a DDS (Damped Diaphragm Steel) clutch developed by KTM. a wear-free steel clutch housing, heat-resistant clutch plates and nitrate-treated steel liners. This clever design is distinguished by the use of a diaphragm spring instead of the usual coil springs, giving the clutch greater flexibility. The diaphragm spring also leaves plenty of room for a damping system integrated into the clutch hub, to enhance traction and durability. The clutch is activated by a hydraulic system manufactured by Brembo, which plays an essential role in the clutch's progressiveness and flexibility.

electric starter

the KTM 500 EXC-F is fitted as standard with an electric starter, a decisive advantage when it comes to reducing lap times in competition. Operated at the touch of a button, this ultra-powerful electric starter coupled with a highly reliable lithium-ion battery won't let you down anytime soon. Also with a view to lightening the bike, the kick starter has simply been removed. If you really can't do without it, you can always reinstall a KTM PowerParts aftermarket kit.

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.

chassis

adapted to the phenomenal power of this machine, the chassis of thessis of the 500 EXC-F SIX DAYS builds on the winning formula of the rest of the enduro range, and adds a few extra ingredients, typical of the SIX DAYS edition, to establish its dominance in motocross.

frame

the high-tech chromium-molybdenum steel frame is a model of lightness, flexibility and handling.the high-tech chromium-molybdenum steel frame, a model of lightness, flexibility and manoeuvrability, offers excellent stability and devilishly precise cornering. Thanks to its high torsional stiffness and low longitudinal rigidity, this frame better absorbs the energy generated by the front and rear suspensions when jumping or negotiating 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 fuel tank and other components. The ultra-light rear section, made of stable aluminum profiles, weighs in at less than 900 grams.

swingarm

the latest-technology swingarm optimizes the position of the PDS shock absorber for even smoother entry into action. In addition to weight savings, cast aluminum is ideal for bending. The one-piece molding process eliminates the imperfections inherent in welding, guaranteeing more consistent manufacturing quality.

wheels

when it comes to wheels, KTM engineers know their stuff. Featuring ultra-light CNC-machined hubs and top-of-the-range Giant rims, the EXC-F's wheels guarantee maximum stability despite limited weight. And because they're shod with MAXXIS tires, the bike is just as comfortable and safe off-road as it is on.

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 its own spring, and each has 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 standard on Six Days models) makes it easy to adjust spring preload to three levels (standard, +3 mm, +6 mm) without the need for tools.

brakes

more responsive, more efficient and more powerful than ever, Brembo calipers will cope with any situation. These technological gems are combined with Wave brake discs, renowned for their light weight. 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 8.5-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. This model features an integrated fuel pump system and fuel level indicator. The 90-degree fuel line connection further protects the fuel tank from damage.

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 all in a matter of seconds, with no tools required.

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 glueless, wire-free mounting system. And thanks to two interchangeable cams (retrofittable), you can adapt the throttle response to suit your riding style. With the power curve change knob (standard), you can change engine mapping and activate the traction control system for extra punch in wet conditions.

saddle

tailored to provide a comfortable support surface for enduro riding, this ultra-strong saddle lets you tackle any terrain with disconcerting control and minimal fatigue all day long.

footrests

sophisticated "zero-dirt" footrests prevent the gear selector from getting dirty, even when riding in deep ruts. To enhance ground clearance, the gear selector on EXC models is 6 mm higher than on SX models.
Styling and graphics

cladding and graphics

the special shape of the front and rear mudguards guarantees maximum stability and minimum weight, thanks to a well-thought-out structure and assembly. Better still, their self-cleaning properties keep them clean for longer. Mounting the brake hose on the cross front plate also helps limit wear and tear. For the 2019 model year, all SIX DAYS models pay tribute to the host country of the 2018 International Six Days of Enduro (ISDE). That's why the deco kit features the red, white and blue colors of the Chilean flag.

software and electronics

KTM 4-stroke bikes are just as sophisticated in hardware as they are in software. For example, at the touch of a button on the handlebars, you can change engine mapping on the fly, giving you an extra edge in terms of safety and competitiveness!

Information and media credits: KTM