KTM this week unveiled its model year 2016 SX range. A completely new generation of motocross bikes that are lighter, faster and even more agile than before with a huge weight reduction thanks to a new chassis, revised engines along with the brand new AER 48 fork system by WP.
There’s been intense development work from the R&D departments in Mattighofen, Austria and the USA, along with a strong influence from the motorsports department.
To say KTM’s motorsports department has been successful is one of the understatements of 2015. They’ve recently celebrated their first ever 450SX World Championship title with Ryan Dungey. And KTM added the East 250SX title with a dominant Marvin Musquin who clinched six wins on the way to claiming the championship crown. Not forgetting the two World Motocross Championship title wins last year too.
Within weeks from now you’ll be able to buy the new MY16 range – available globally from June onwards.
Here’s some info on the 2016 range released from KTM:
This new READY TO RACE generation of KTM SX models, which is being introduced to the media at the historic Maggiora track in Italy this week, offers state-of-the-art technology combined with class-leading performance and the lowest weight in each class, which will set the benchmark for the Motocross world.
Chassis
Compared to previous models, over 90% of the parts are new, as the KTM engineers aimed at increasing performance, improving handling and reducing weight of these already world-dominating machines, despite still including the all-important electric starter. Key improvements include the innovative AER 48 Air Fork design developed by WP in close collaboration with KTM (US models continue to be fitted with a refined version of the WP 4CS fork system), plus a newly designed chassis with a new frame, subframe, footpegs, swingarm, linkage and rear shock to provide improved mass centralisation and reduced weight for better handling (all models except 250 SX).
Engine
A full range of completely new, smaller and lighter 4-stroke engines, plus a new 125cc 2-stroke, have been developed with a totally new architecture design, which offers increased performance, while also working in harmony with the new chassis. The 4-stroke range now has a state-of-the-art launch control system, an updated EMS with a faster ECU, as well as a new throttle body and different riding modes. The vision is simple: The KTM engineers wanted to make their new bikes faster than ever before.
Joachim Sauer, KTM Off-road Product Manager: “We are excited to deliver a new generation of SX models, which have been developed in collaboration with many experts in our R&D department, professional racers, our motorsports department and of course WP. This range offers a huge step forward in terms of technology and a massive reduction in weight over previous models.”
“The new AER 48 fork system is an incredibly innovative design and combined with the new chassis, improved engines and overall refinements, we are confident that riders will feel a massive benefit from the SX MY16 range. We also continue to retain specific elements that suit different markets, such as the 4CS fork system for the USA. The hard work globally with our factory teams, which has seen us achieve even more success in the toughest competitions in Motocross and Supercross, can now be shared with our customers and we are pleased to present the latest SX models to the world.”
Sportminicycles
The KTM junior range has also received detail updates for the 50 SX, 65 SX and 85 SX, and KTM continues to offer a full range of motorcycles for any kind of riding level for youngsters to progress, as well as adult novice to professional level MXGP and Supercross.
We’ll be getting more images soon but for now check out KTM’s video.
Video: KTM 2016 SX range
