The 2024 KTM XC and XC-F two-stroke and four-stroke cross-country models have landed featuring new suspension settings and graphics this year (plus monster handguards as standard) for the fully fuel injected, six-bike range.

On the same wave as the MY24 SX range, KTM has announced the updates to the XC, cross-country line-up for the new season. The news is as expected that the six bikes – three each of two and four-stroke – receive only minor updates following their ground-up reworking on the chassis and engines for MY23.

It features six bikes as mentioned from the mighty KTM 450 XC-F, popular 350 XC-F and very usable 250 XC-F rounding the 4T fuel injected line-up.

For some of us around the world the two-stroke XC bikes remain the points of interest, mainly because we can’t get hold of them from dealers! That includes three fuel injected 2T models; the 125 XC, KTM 250 XC, and the impressive KTM 300 XC.

Noticeable by its absence in the SX range PR material was the 125 two-stroke but we see a few images of the XC version have crept into the woods for some action in the XC range photoshooting…

All models fuel injected 

All 2024 KTM XC and XC-F models benefit from Electronic Fuel Injection, along with a map select switch as standard and that includes the 125. The 4-stroke XC-F range gets additional Traction Control, Launch Control, and Quickshifter features just like the SX-F models.

Standard fitment across the XC range is the 18-inch rear wheel, larger and clear fuel tank, side stand and a bash plate or sump guard, plus the new handguards we’re already seeing on some of the factory race bikes like Josep Garcia and Andrea Verona in EnduroGP.

We’re also spotting a few factory development two-strokes out there which are running separate oil filler and tank, meaning the fuel injected enduro models look likely to steer clear of premix fuel. The SX and XC 2T models though still need the 60:1 adding in.

Less foaming in the forks

The biggest improvement to the 2024 KTM XC and XC-F range is in the suspension with new WP XACT Closed Cartridge forks delivering “faster and more consistent damping characteristics, thanks to a new mid-valve piston” KTM explain, which improves oil flow within the cartridge.

This change reduces tendency for foaming of oil, they add, which can lead to an unwanted change of damping characteristics and less consistent damping behaviour.

There’s also a new hydro stop in the last 68mm of the stroke which aids in maintaining maximum reserves in extreme riding situations. Revised fork protection rings (seals) also improve protection against dirt intrusion.

The new WP XACT Closed Cartridge 48mm forks have a the total length of 940mm now and the 300mm of travel.

No change at the rear

The WP XACT rear shock doesn’t appear to have changed following quite the overhaul last year when less overall length and weight brought with 300mm of travel like the front.

A feature we’re hoping to see on the 2024 EXC enduro range is both front and rear suspension feature easy-to-use hand clickers that allow riders to change settings on the fly without needing any special tools (see above).

The 2024 KTM XC and XC-F range will be available in KTM dealers from April 2023 onwards. At time of writing Enduro21 has no information about 2024 pricing.

More information: www.ktm.com

Photo Credit: Francesc Montero