2027 KTM 500 EXC-F
The 2027 KTM 500 EXC-F in ORANGE is built for riders who want serious enduro capability with a big-bore, 510.9 cm³ liquid-cooled 1-cylinder 4-stroke platform and a 6-speed transmission. It pairs a Central double-cradle-type 25CrMo4 steel frame with WP suspension at both ends, including a 48 mm WP XACT-USD fork and a WP XPLOR PDS shock. Practical trail-ready details—like a standard radiator fan, LED headlight, electric start with a 2 Ah lithium-ion battery, and easy-access air filter design—round out a package focused on durability, adjustability, and all-day dirt mileage.
510.9 cm³ SOHC single + 6-speed
A 510.9 cm³ liquid-cooled, single-cylinder 4-stroke engine with Keihin EMS and a 6-speed transmission gives the 500 EXC-F the flexibility to cover everything from slow, technical sections to faster connecting trails. KTM’s SOHC design and emphasis on mass centralization and a low center of gravity are aimed at keeping the bike manageable when conditions get demanding.
Tool-free, fully adjustable WP suspension
Up front, the WP XACT-USD Ø 48 mm fork offers compression and rebound adjustment, and the rear WP XPLOR PDS shock features a preload adjuster. KTM also highlights tool-free adjustability across the Enduro range, including hand-adjustable fork clickers and rear PDS dual compression controls for quick high- and low-speed changes when terrain or pace shifts.
Trail-practical equipment built in
The 500 EXC-F comes with a proven electric start system powered by an ultra-lightweight 2 Ah lithium-ion starter battery, plus a standard radiator fan and an LED headlight unit and light mask. KTM’s enduro-focused airbox and Twin Air filter setup is designed for maximum airflow with minimal water intrusion, and tool-free access helps speed up maintenance between rides.
Engine, fueling, and power delivery focus
At the heart of the 2027 KTM 500 EXC-F is a 510.9 cm³ liquid-cooled, single-cylinder 4-stroke engine managed by Keihin EMS. KTM’s description emphasizes a lightweight SOHC design with mass centralization and a low center of gravity, targeting sharp handling, maneuverability, and controlled anti-squat behavior. An aluminum silencer and compact exhaust routing are designed to keep weight low and components tucked in close to the engine for reduced exposure in rocky terrain.
A 6-speed transmission supports a wide spread of riding situations, and details like the CPC fuel connector protection cap and in-line fuel filter access are aimed at keeping the fueling system protected and serviceable in real-world off-road use.
Chassis feel, stability, and braking hardware
The chassis is built around a Central double-cradle-type 25CrMo4 steel frame with an aluminum-reinforced polyamide rear subframe. KTM points to longitudinal rigidity, energy absorption, and high-speed stability, supported by a forged steering head connection and CNC-milled triple clamps designed for precise fork alignment and responsive action.
Braking is handled by disc brakes front and rear with 260 / 220 mm disc diameters. Geometry and sizing details include a 63.9° steering head angle and a 1489 mm wheelbase (also listed as 1489 ± 10 mm). Ground clearance is 347 mm, and wheels are specified as 1.6 x 21" up front and 2.15 x 18" at the rear—an enduro-ready setup to match the bike’s purpose-built chassis package.
Suspension setup and PDS rear shock advantages
The 500 EXC-F’s WP suspension package is designed to be both performance-focused and easy to tune. The front WP XACT-USD Ø 48 mm fork provides 300 mm (11.81 inch) of travel and is compression and rebound adjustable. KTM also calls out a WP XACT Closed Cartridge spring fork design with optimized oil flow and protection rings to help guard against dirt intrusion, along with tool-free compression and rebound adjustment.
At the rear, a WP XPLOR shock absorber with PDS provides 310 mm (12.2 inch) of travel, with a preload adjuster. KTM highlights the PDS concept for its anti-squat behavior and describes it as a reliable, maintenance-friendly option for competitive enduro use, with hand-adjustable dual compression controls for quick high- and low-speed tuning.
Ergonomics, lighting, and service-friendly details
KTM’s enduro ergonomics focus on rider movement and control, with a rider-focused body-position triangle aimed at improved knee contact—especially when standing. A flat seat profile and high grip seat cover are paired with bodywork intended to help shed mud buildup in wet, muddy conditions. The subframe design also integrates electronics without extra brackets or fixtures.
For visibility, the KTM Enduro range uses an LED headlight unit and mask designed for improved protection and fitment. Day-to-day ownership details include a tool-free accessible air filter box with an enduro-specific splash protector, plus wiring and electrical components positioned under the seat for accessibility. The cooling system uses high-strength aluminum radiators, and a radiator fan is fitted as standard equipment.
Key dimensions and core specs
The 2027 KTM 500 EXC-F lists a seat height of 963 mm and a ground clearance of 347 mm. Weight (without fuel) is 114.8 kg. Fuel capacity is listed as 8.2 l (also stated as 2.17 US gal).
Other key specs include a 520 X-Ring chain, 1.6 x 21" and 2.15 x 18" wheel sizes, and suspension travel of 300 mm (11.81 inch) front and 310 mm (12.2 inch) rear. The ORANGE colorway completes the classic KTM enduro look while keeping the focus on functional, ride-ready equipment.
