Dropping power bombs, the 2025 KTM 500 EXC-F CHAMPION EDITION packs raging horsepower into a lightweight, READY TO RACE chassis. Not only does it pack a championship-winning punch - it also brings unmatched handling and a stellar electronics package to the battleground.
ADJUSTABILITY
Getting READY TO RACE has never been easier. The 2025 KTM EXC range boasts a tool-free suspension setup at both ends. At the rear, our legendary, race-winning PDS technology features hand-adjustable dual compression controls, allowing 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.
AIR FILTER BOX
The air filter box is designed to ensure maximum airflow with minimal water intrusion. Precision in how the inlet ducts are positioned is 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 features a simple fail-proof mounting system for safe and accurate filter installation. All this ensures the air filter is easily accessed, without tools, for fast track-side maintenance.
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! A one-piece fuel pump and filter manage fuel supply, while servicing is made extra simple with easy fuel filter access. What's more, an updated fuel tank roll now holds the tank more firmly in place and protects the frame against scrubbing.
SWITCHGEAR
On the right side of the handlebar, you'll find a new, sleeker start/stop switch, and on the left, a Mapping Select switch that allows riders to choose between Map 1 or Map 2. This is fitted as standard on all CHAMPION EDITION models.
GRAPHICS
Just like it says in the tin, the KTM CHAMPIONS EDITION range takes its inspiration from our KTM Red Bull Factory Racing championship-winning machines. Boasting an unmatched READY TO RACE look - and backed up by a list of top-shelf parts - this is the choice of champions.
ENGINE
Warp speed engaged! The SOHC engine in the KTM 500 EXC-F CHAMPION EDITION is an undeniable powerhouse. Weighing in at a mere 29.5 kg it's remarkably lightweight for its power output. Designed with mass centralization in mind, this hard-hitting power factory features a low center of gravity, providing exceptional handling, maneuverability, and overall anti-squat behavior. A radiator fan is also fitted as standard to add more cooling power.
QUICKSHIFTER
Clutchless upshifts are the name of the game with a Quickshifter - fitted as standard on the 4-stroke KTM CHAMPIONS EDITION range. The function works by interrupting the ignition for a fraction of a second. This allows upshifting without the use of the clutch lever, while the throttle is fully opened. On the technical side, a sensor on the shift drum notices the force on the shift lever, sending the signal to the ECU and interrupting the ignition timing to slot the next gear in. The Quickshifter can also be deactivated via the new map select switch and is only active from 2nd to 6th gear.
TRACTION CONTROL
Blasting through wet and muddy terrain just got a lot easier with the Traction Control function. TC analyzes throttle input from the rider and the rate at which the RPM increases in the engine. If the RPM increases too quickly, the EMS registers a loss of grip and reduces the amount of power to the rear wheel. This ensures maximum traction. Of course, it can be switched off for complete control.
OFFROAD CONTROL UNIT
The Offroad Control Unit - or OCU - is located under the seat and 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.
SELECTABLE ENGINE MAPS
Designed for easy operation, the map select switch comes standard on the KTM EXC CHAMPIONS EDITION range and allows for the easy selection of 2 unique engine maps. Map 1 is the standard, more linear, and predictable power map, while map 2 is a more aggressive map for added throttle response and more crisp, explosive power output.
BATTERY & WIRING HARNESS
The KTM 500 EXC-F CHAMPION EDITION is fitted with a proven and reliable electric start system. Powered by an ultra-lightweight 2 Ah lithium-ion starter battery, it provides a safe, reliable starting time and time again, while the wiring harness has most of the electrical components carefully positioned under the seat for easy accessibility.
ERGONOMICS
The 2025 KTM EXC 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.
EXHAUST
Providing the bark to the KTM 500 EXC-F bite, the exhaust system is designed to deliver hard-hitting performance at the lowest possible weight. 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. At the nose-making end, a short, compact silencer is crafted from lightweight aluminum and finished in a premium matt black coating.
TOP-SHELF COMPONENTRY
Every KTM EXC CHAMPIONS EDITION gets the top-step treatment, starting with an instantly recognizable graphics kit and orange, ribbed, Factory Seat, while an orange-anodized front axel puller and Supersprox rear sprocket add a little extra flair. Orange Frame Protectors, grey ODI grips, a semi-floating front brake disc, and a plastic skid plate complete the package.
FRAME
Specifically engineered for longitudinal rigidity, the 2025 KTM 500 EXC-F CHAMPION EDITION is engineered around a gloss-orange powder-coated frame providing exceptional rider feedback, energy absorption, and high-speed stability. This is achieved by repositioning the rotating masses in the frame along with a forged steering head connection. The footrest mounts also feature a slim design for less risk of hooking up. And when the ride comes to an end, a forged one-piece side stand ensures your enduro weapon stands proud.
SUBFRAME
An 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. This compact subframe design also boasts the the ability to bend and flex in the event of a crash, rather than break, with the subframe fully integrating electronic components, without any extra need for brackets, holders, or unnecessary fixtures.
WP XACT CLOSED-CARTIDGE FORK
A 48 mm WP XACT Closed Cartridge spring fork provides fast and consistent damping, with optimized oil flow. This means these forks ensure unmatched performance at every level. Fork protection rings also protect against dirt intrusion. But, best of all, the fork allows for full adjustment of compression and rebound without the need for any tools.
WP XPLOR SHOCK
Remaining a hallmark of KTM Enduro weaponry, a PDS rear shock concept improves the anti-squat behaviors of the chassis. This remains the most reliable and maintenance-friendly option for competitive enduro racing. Moreover, a lightweight WP XPLOR PDS rear shock takes charge at the rear. For 2025, the rear shock received updated settings, resulting in improved pressure balance within the shock. With consistent damping, as well as full adjustability thanks to easy-to-use hand clickers for adjustments on the fly, it remains the setup to beat.
WHEELS AND TIRES
The KTM 500 EXC-F CHAMPION EDITION is fitted with a set of MICHELIN Enduro tires, which provide outstanding traction thanks to an innovative tread design that adapts perfectly to sandy, grassy, muddy ground as well as harder dirt tracks.
STABILITY
The 2025 KTM EXC 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.
LED HEADLIGHT
Lighting the way forward, the 2025 KTM EXC range features an 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 serious illumination, making riding in the dark a completely new experience.
