KIWI RIDER 03 2020 VOL1 | Page 94

DIRT NEWS ELECTRIC KTM/HUSKY KIDS PRICING CONFIRMED I t’s been a while since we took a look at the KTM SX-E 5 and its Husqvarna counterpart the EE 5, but with both these models freshly landed in the country there’s no time like the present (late Xmas present…?) Priced from $9399, the SX-E 5 and EE 5 are the first competition-ready products to offer younger riders, the instant torque of an electric powerplant – all in a bike package that can grow with a rider, unlike traditional 50cc class machines. Based on KTM’s two-stroke 50cc machine, the 50SX, both bikes share the same electric motor and frame – with the plastics and frame colour the main features which define the differences between the KTM and Husqvarna machines. KTM said in their announcement during the bike’s debut at the 2018 EICMA Motorcycle Show 92 KIWI RIDER that the company’s mission was clear; “To create an ultra-competitive machine that is also easy to ride, even for pure beginners.” Those are not normally two traits that go hand in hand, but thankfully the two little EVs have a couple of tricks up their sleeves to ensure that they are manageable for the target audience. With six different rider modes, the EE 5 and SX-E’s 5kW of power can be tailored for the situation or the rider. Not only that, both bikes feature WP Suspension systems and an adjustable seat height to perfect the chassis for that rider who dreams of becoming the next Chris Birch or Shayne King. While for environmentalists, the fact that both bikes have the advantage of zero emissions will be a selling point, but more importantly for the