Motorcycle specifications KTM300 EXC TPI 2018

Staggering torque, cutting-edge technology, ultra-light chassis ready to rise to any occasion: this 300 cm3 is cut out for combat. In 2018, it's the fuel injection that gets the KTM 300 EXC all riled up for 4-strokes.

eNGINE

the power-to-weight ratio and enduro capabilities of the new KTM 300 EXC TPI make it the undisputed queen of its class. Its brand-new TPI electronic fuel injection system sets a new benchmark for off-road competition in the 2-stroke segment. Its modern architecture and cutting-edge technology (perfectly protected electric starter, new cylinder with dual injector and control shaft, special 6-speed Enduro gearbox and hydraulic DDS clutch) explain why the KTM 300 EXC TPI is considered the absolute weapon when things get serious.

oIL PUMP

owners of a KTM EXC TPI can now do without the traditional 2-stroke oil/petrol pre-mix. An electronic oil pump circulates oil from the oil tank to the engine, via the throttle valve body, to ensure a perfect oil-fuel mixture, whatever the conditions and engine speed. The device, designed to reduce exhaust emissions by up to 50% compared with previous models, is controlled by the control unit according to engine speed and load, as measured by the throttle valve position sensor. With an oil capacity of 0.7 liters (enough for 5 to 6 full tanks of petrol), the rider can rest easy for a long time to come.

tHROTTLE BODY

the TPI fuel-injected engine features an all-new throttle body developed by Dell`Orto, with a diameter of 39 mm. The amount of air entering the engine is regulated by a throttle linked to a cam (with two cables) controlled by a new handlebar-mounted throttle. In addition, a throttle valve position sensor communicates air flow to the control unit, while idle speed is managed by the bypass screw. The cold-start device opens a bypass circuit to supply the extra air needed for cold starts. The oil drawn off by the oil pump passes through the intake pipe before being mixed with the incoming air to lubricate the crankshaft bearings, cylinder/piston, etc.

cYLINDER

the KTM 300 EXC TPI's new 72-mm cylinder features a sophisticated control spindle for smooth power delivery. The injectors responsible for introducing fuel into the rear transfers are positioned on either side of the new cylinder. Downward injection offers the advantage of excellent atomization with rising air. Combustion is therefore more efficient, resulting in fuel savings and lower emissions. A small tube at the rear of the cylinder is connected to the intake pressure sensor, which communicates the air flow to the control unit. In addition, the engine's character can be altered in a matter of seconds by adjusting the two springs on the control shaft. Whatever the track conditions, you're sure to find the most suitable settings.

mOTOR CARTER

for optimum mass centralization, KTM engineers have designed ultra-light, molded crankcases.and raised the position of the crankshaft and clutch shaft to bring them closer to the center of gravity, resulting in exceptional handling. This trick also frees up space for a balance shaft, so you can swallow up the miles at full speed and in complete relaxation. Another interesting innovation to keep the engine as radiant as in the early days: crankcase covers with an elaborate surface structure designed to reduce wear caused by the rider's boots.

eNGINE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

the engine management system (EMS) on TPI models features a new control unit located under the seat. Ignition timing is calculated by the control unit. The precise amount of fuel to be injected depends on sensor readings such as ambient and intake air pressure, throttle position, oil and water temperature. As the system is designed to compensate for altitude and temperature fluctuations, injection requires no manual intervention by the pilot.

bALANCER SHAFT

numb hands and feet are not inevitable. The engine's new design has made it possible to use a side-mounted balancer shaft, which contributes to a considerable reduction in vibration levels (50% less at the handlebars and footrests). The ride is more comfortable and less tiring.

eLECTRIC STARTER

the 300 cm3 2-stroke engine features a new electric starter, tucked away underneath the engine. The mechanism is less complex and even more reliable than its predecessor. And since it's powered by an ultra-powerful lithium-ion battery, there's no risk of it running down any time soon.

gEARBOX

the 6-speed gearbox, stepped specially for the Enduro, is a model of precision and smoothness. As safety is also an essential parameter, the selector adopts a new "zero dirt" design that prevents the lever joint from jamming due to dirt. After all, even greasy terrain enthusiasts take a dim view of mud when it gets lodged in the wrong places.

eMBRAYAGE

the KTM 300 EXC TPI uses a DDS (Damped Diaphragm Steel) clutch developed by KTM. a wear-free steel clutch housing, heat-resistant clutch plates and new 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.

eXHAUST

this nickel-plated exhaust system is by WP Performance Systems. Based on the carburettor model and derived from modern 3D production processes that give it remarkable precision and reliability, this muffler has been designed to exploit the full operating range and maximum power of the engine.

aLTERNATOR

tPI models feature a more powerful generatorgenerator capable of delivering 196 W (as much as their 4-stroke EXC counterparts) to meet the power requirements of the engine management system. The new ECU mounted on the left-hand side of the steering column is carried over from the EXC-F models.

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 diabolical precision when 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.

oSCILLANT ARM

the new design optimizes the position of the PDS shock absorber for even smoother entry into action. In addition to a significant weight saving (-220 g), cast aluminum offers ideal bending behavior. The one-piece molding process eliminates the imperfections inherent in welding, guaranteeing a more homogeneous manufacturing quality.

fOOTREST

sophisticated "zero-dirt" footrests prevent the gear selector from fouling, even when passing through deep ruts. To enhance ground clearance, the gear selector on Enduro models is 6 mm higher than on SX models.

fRONT SUSPENSION

another interesting new feature on this bike is the WP XPlor 48 inverted fork with separate damping circuits, developed by WP in close collaboration with KTM. Each fork leg is equipped with a spring and has a different function: the left leg handles compression damping, while the right leg handles rebound. To fine-tune each of these settings, simply turn the 30-notch knob above the plunger. To reduce the risk of bottoming, the fork features a longer, sealed hydraulic stop. High-quality materials, ultra-sophisticated production process, 300 mm travel, 200 g weight savings over the previous model : nothing has been left to chance to make the new XPlor 48 fork the ultimate in responsiveness and damping.available as an option, the new preload adjuster allows the triple compression spring to be adjusted without the need for tools.

bRAKES

more responsive, more efficient and more powerful than ever, Brembo brakes will cope with any situation. These little jewels of technology are combined with Wave discs renowned for their lightness. The rear brake pedal has been lengthened by 10 mm, and the brake caliper piston is now smaller, for better brake proportioning. The stainless steel front brake hose now has a protective sheath with a cable guide for the speedo wire. Optimum braking power is a must when you intend to push your machine.

rEAR SUSPENSION

the bike is equipped with a brand-new PDS XPlor shock absorber developed by WP. A true KTM trademark, the progressive damping system (PDS) has proved its worth time and again. As the shock absorber is connected directly to the upper part of the swingarm, it does away with the linkage system. This set-up has been redesigned with the new frame and swingarm architecture in mind. It's based on impeccable geometry and even more progressive damping. The body, also completely redesigned, features a smaller piston and a larger chamber. To save precious grams, the piston diameter has been reduced from 50 to 46 mm, the overall length has been cut by 2.5 mm and the shock absorber stroke has been reduced by 4 mm. As the shock absorber has been moved 5 mm closer to the central axis, the loads exerted on the swingarm and frame are virtually symmetrical. This also frees up space for the exhaust system. The second piston, combined with a cup-shaped limit stop (instead of a needle stop), is supported by a progressive-action spring. End-of-stroke heels are a thing of the past. This part has been lightened by over 600 grams. With its various machined and anodized components and its characteristic WP color scheme (black chamber, white spring and silver body), this ultra-sophisticated shock absorber makes a strong impression.

gUIDON

profiled and made of high-strength aluminum, this NEKEN handlebar is no exception to the rule. It features a throttle control (with two cables for EXC TPI models, as for their 4-stroke counterparts), a new double-cable aluminum handlebar and an ultra-simple guard adjustment system. right: a vulcanized handle; left: the ODI lock-on handle, as comfortable as it is practical, thanks to its glue- and wire-free mounting system. All models can be fitted with a handlebar-mounted power curve switch (retrofit) to change engine mapping for all conditions.

fORK TIPS

the new generation features forged fork crowns with a 22 mm offset for improved fork support and even more precise front-end behavior. The handlebars can be moved forward or back in four positions for a perfect grip.

wHEELS

featuring ultra-light CNC-machined hubs and top-of-the-range Giant rims, the EXC's wheels guarantee maximum stability despite limited weight. And since they are shod with MAXXIS tires, the bike should prove just as comfortable and safe off-road as on.

fUEL TANK

the ultra-light polyethylene fuel tank has a capacity of 9.25 liters. EXC TPI models feature a new, integrated fuel pump system and an additional, practical fuel level indicator to prevent running out of fuel.

cOOLING SYSTEM

kTM's proven integrated cooling system circulates coolant from the cylinder head via the frame triangle to the aluminum radiators supplied by WP. The additional KTM PowerParts cooling fan that can be added to this fuel-injected 2-stroke is now managed by the control unit, eliminating the need for a thermocontact. Its efficiency is due to improved management of internal airflow and advances in ventilation thanks to CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) calculations. The new radiator covers 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.

bATTERY AND WIRING HARNESS

the electric starter is now combined with an ultra-compact lithium-ion battery claimed to weigh just 495 g, 1 kg less than a conventional battery, despite being three times more powerful. The battery and cable harness are now grouped together in a compartment above the air filter housing, so that the electrical circuit is not in the way when the rear section of the frame is removed.

bODYWORK

kTM factory riders collaborated on the bike's design with KTM R&D specialists and the Kiska design agency, with a single watchword: to create perfect harmony between rider and machine. Ergonomics and contact points have been carefully designed to enhance freedom of movement and comfort on the EXC. The special shape of the front and rear mudguards guarantees maximum stability and minimum weight, thanks to a well-thought-out structure and assembly. Best of all, they stay clean longer. The clever mounting of the brake hose on the cross front plate also reduces wear and tear. The new deco kit confirms the READY TO RACE character of the 2018 KTM EXC range.

News and media credits: KTM