KTM has pulled the covers off its 2026 Enduro range, and this year’s headline is a big one: the 300 EXC is now the only street-legal two-stroke in Europe.
The reason? Stricter EURO5+ emissions regulations, which have forced KTM to reclassify the 125, 150, and 250cc two-strokes as XC-W competition-only bikes.
For many riders, this is a bittersweet moment — a nod to how much the market has changed, but also a sign of how KTM continues to adapt.
A Closer Look at the 2026 Line-up
Europe:
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125 XC-W (competition only)
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250 XC-W (competition only)
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300 EXC (EURO5+ homologated)
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250 EXC-F, 350 EXC-F, 450 EXC-F, 500 EXC-F (four-stroke range)
North America:
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150 XC-W, 250 XC-W, 300 XC-W (competition)
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450 XCF-W (dual-sport)
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350 EXC-F & 500 EXC-F to be announced in coming weeks
Suspension Upgrades
KTM describes the 2026 Enduro platform as being “chiselled” — which in real terms means changes you’ll feel on the trail:
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48mm WP XACT Closed Cartridge forks: New damping settings, shorter and lighter springs, reworked pressure reservoir geometry, and a one-piece hydro stop for better end-stroke control.
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Weight savings: 200 grams from the forks alone.
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WP XPLOR PDS rear shock: Adjusted to match the updated fork performance.
Cooling & Durability
Riders have long asked for better cooling straight from the factory, and KTM has finally listened:
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Radiator fan now standard on the 300 EXC, all EXC-Fs, and the 450 XCF-W.
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New radiator cap with standard thread — easier and faster to open.
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Fuel connector cover to keep dirt and water out, plus an extra seal for extra reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
2026 isn’t just about performance — KTM has also sharpened the look and feel:
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Brighter in-mold graphics with vivid orange and red fork guard accents.
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Re-shaped tank spoilers for better airflow and cooling.
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High-grip black seat, textured frame protectors, updated bar pads.
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OEM tyres: Maxxis for Europe, Dunlop Geomax AT82 for North America.
Availability
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Europe: August 2025
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USA: September 2025
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300 EXC: October 2025
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Prices: TBA
In summary:
The 300 EXC now stands as the last street-legal two-stroke in KTM’s European line-up — a real milestone for enduro history. Alongside suspension improvements, factory-fitted radiator fans, and fresh design updates, the 2026 KTM Enduro range keeps the brand’s racing DNA alive, even as the rules change.
