2023 KTM SX AND SX-F RANGE REVEALED!
KTM'S two-stroke SX models get major upgrades with electric start, a new chassis, new engines, fuel injection and loads more. And the four-strokes didn't miss out either.
Following on from the release of their Six Days enduro machines, KTM have been busy during COVID making major changes to their SX and SX-F range. The two-strokes received the most change while the four-strokes have received some significant refinements too.
The upgrades are headlined by electric start on all models now, something the two-strokes were lacking, more compact engine packages that are apparently more durable, more serviceable and offer better power-to-weight ratio across the board.
They received new cylinder heads which have seen the engines rotated by 2 degrees for better centralization and relation with the chassis. They get a brand new 5-speed PANKL Racing Systems transmissions with an additional sensor for the four-strokes that means that up-shifts (from 2nd gear onwards) are slicker thanks to the Quickshifter function. The Quickshifter can be disabled with a switch on the handlebar but a weight-optimized shift shaft in the transmission itself means that the operating force of the changes is now less and therefore easier to go with a Brembo hydraulic clutch.
The KTM SX two-strokes received a new electronic fuel injection with a new 39mm throttle body with injectors positioned for pinpoint response. They get a TPS-sensor for better behaviour while idle and for the fuel-air mixture (not forgetting the cold start mechanism which is the same as the KTM SX-Fs).
The entire range gets a new frame and mounts, subframe, swingarm, engine repositioning, ergonomics and WP Suspension tech. The frame is hydro-formed, laser-cut and robot-welded. The wall thickness has been improved to achieve better rigidity in high stress areas such as the steering head and all new shock mounts.
The KTM SX two-strokes have new parallel frame mounts. The footpegs have been moved inward slightly for even greater clearance in ruts and scrubbing. New footpegs are even larger in surface area and the die casting means they are lighter than before. Stiffness has been dialed with lighter die cast hollow swingarms (new casting processes allow for even more weight saving) and a new rear axle.
The WP Suspension XACT shock is shorter and lighter. The internal flow of liquids is more flush, reliable and resistant, and the shock’s smaller dimensions lower the chances of pollutants and dirt intrusion. The shape permits higher ground clearance with the linkage and advanced damping should give better traction.The WP XACT fork with AER air technology has a new hydrostop for more effective ‘bottoming’ resistance.
The 2023 KTM SXs are narrower but KTM climate they’ve increased the contact area and surfaces to allow even more input into the handling of the bike. The flat orange seat and the reworked front fender are other identifiable marks. The ‘mud flaps’ of the fender prevents excessive soil being flicked up towards the rider and the radiator in particularly wet conditions.
The whole unit is protected by a new number plate design. The subframe is now a finely engineered hybrid thanks to polyamide reinforced aluminum, applying strength into the lower part of the frame and extending flexibility for control and comfort in upper sections. The subframe now weighs less than two kilos.
They will be wrapped in Dunlop GEOMAX MX33 tyres.
The 2023 KTM SX range will be available at authorised KTM dealerships in Australia and New Zealand starting from August 2022 for the two-stroke minicycles and four-stroke SX-Fs, with the larger two-stroke SX models expected later in the year, from November 2022 onwards. Price is TBC.
