The 2025 KTM XC and XC-F Cross-Country model range has been announced with updates to the frame and, for some, still the welcome need for pre-mix fuel in the two-stroke models.

Currently leading the 2024 Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) Series handsomly with Johnny Girroir, as well as the National Grand Prix Championship (NGPC) with Dante Oliveira, it’s fair to say KTM XC models are race proven bikes.

For 2025, the KTM XC two-stroke and XC-F four-stroke range brings “proper KTM Factory Racing expertise” to the trail, to your garage and under your legs in the races.

The model line-up includes the 125, 250 and 300 XC two-strokes (Keihin fuel injected models whcih run pre-mix note), and 250, 350 and 450 XC-F four-strokes. Also differentiated from the EXC enduro models by the linkage rear suspension design. 

New frame

Like the recently announced SX and SX-F models, the major talking point with the XC bikes is the frame which now features visible cut-outs and different tube-wall thicknesses around the headstock area, with the engine mount and rear shock mount areas receiving the same treatment.

As KTM put it, “these changes have been specifically engineered to improve chassis flex characteristics and reduce weight by around 300g while maintaining overall stability and improving cornering behaviour”.

These are the areas the factory motocross and supercross racers have been grappling with on the previous generation KTM and since they are all sharing the same chassis’ these days, we’re looking forward to a test to find out how that translates.

Yup, they clearly work for Johnny G and the Oliveira’s of this world but what about the rest of us?

The ’25 models also feature an updated swingarm with a machined chain slider – for better mud dissipation they say – and an updated rear brake pedal for improved durability and resistance to bending.

The chassis changes mean tweaks to the WP XACT Closed Cartridge spring fork and XACT linkage shock which have “reworked settings” to account for the more flex and less weight. The WP XACT shock also has from an updated linkage with renewed seals and smaller diameter linkage bolts – another change taken directly from the KTM Factory Racing Team.

New full-orange bodywork with red and black in-mold graphics are looking more moody than previous years we reckon and the bi-composite plastic tank shrouds have a sharper look, along with improved cooling characteristics, KTM claims.

There’s also an updated fuel tank mount that protects the frame against wear from scrubbing and improves tank fitment. There’s also an updated, one-piece air inlet sleeve and snorkel design to reduce chances of deformation, thanks to a more robust and stiffer material design.

The Connectivity Unit Offroad is also available from KTM PowerParts for the XC-F line-up, not standard. The CUO offers a range of functions and adjustability options via the KTMconnect app and comes as a complete kit from KTM PowerParts.

The 2025 KTM XC and XC-F range will arrive in KTM dealers this June. Prices not yet known.

More information: www.KTM.com