TRAVERSE Issue 46 - February 2025 | Page 72

TRAVERSE 72
R come equipped with 21 ” front and 18 ” rear spoked wheels , ready to hit the dirt . These are fitted with tried and proven Metzeler Karoo 4 tires – in 90 / 90R21 and 140 / 80R18 dimensions respectively .
Both motorcycles come equipped with 285 mm axial Bybre brakes on the front and 240 mm single piston brakes on the back . These ensure stellar braking performance on the road , but equally impressive stopping power on the dirt .
Both KTM ENDURO R models are powered by a new generation of lightweight , compact small single-cylinder engines and dubbed the LC4c – c for compact , which debuted in the recent KTM DUKE range .
Building off the experience gained with the previous generation of small single-cylinder engines , these powerplants are completely redesigned , with newly optimized cylinder heads and gearboxes ready for EURO 5.2 compatibility .
This new engine platform introduces updated service intervals , with the first service occurring at 1,000 km , followed by regular services every 10,000 km thereafter . Valve checks are performed every 20,000 km .
This new LC4c powerplant features a larger valve cover with a smaller cylinder head , reducing the weight at the upper end of the engine . A new thermostat position – mounted directly into the cylinder head – improves thermal monitoring and provides more stable running temperatures under different riding conditions .
New injectors are now angled directly into the inlet valves to reduce build-up in the inlet channel . These new injectors also provide a finer fuel spray , making for more efficient combustion and less emissions .
A new airbox has been specifically optimized to suit the KTM ENDURO R packaging . This allows the engine to sit higher , increasing ground clearance and allowing a more focused off-road rider triangle .
A unique , stainless steel exhaust design means the system fitted to the KTM 390 ENDURO R and KTM 125 ENDURO R does not need an end muffler . This has resulted in a total weight saving of two kilograms .
The new exhaust is equipped with a Double Catalyzer to comply with Euro 5 + regulations and features active control whereby the ECU not only adjusts the fuel mixture for optimal detonation but also adjusts the mixture to ensure an optimal temperature to reduce emissions . The active combustion system also works to detect any misfires , helping to diagnose the status of the catalytic converter and store information for OBDII diagnosis .
For riders looking for more , specially engineered and designed KTM PowerParts are available to add more style , clearance , or power to the overall package .
Improved gear guidance , achieved by replacing the previous 5 mm guides with 6 mm guides at the fork pins and implementing other small optimizations , has reduced shift forces within the gearbox . The shift drum shape has been optimized for easier shifting between the 5th and 6th gears , making for smoother movements of the gears along the shafts . The shift lever travel has also been reduced resulting in quicker and responsive action .
A Power Assisted Slipper Clutch is now installed on all models , with optimized gears on the clutch basket and flywheel reducing weight and making for easier clutch control , along with an optional Quickshifter + system .
Setting the benchmark for the smaller displacement dual-sport segment , the 2025 KTM 125 ENDURO R and KTM 390 ENDURO R boast real-world technological advancements that not only enhance the riding experience but also safety .
The ENDURO R range comes with a new 4.2 ” TFT dashboard with a unique UI specially designed for the compact screen size . With a USB C port as standard . Made from bonded glass , the TFT also features a polarization coating to reduce glare and improve readability on bright days . This ensures riders can quickly and easily see all relevant information such as speed , fuel level , and gear indicator .
The new dashboards are supported by completely redesigned switchgear featuring a 4-way Joystick with optimized ergonomics and Illuminated switches . These allow riders to control various functions of the motorcycle , such as lights , indicators , and ride modes , and of course , interact with different connectivity features . The new switch cubes have an integrated and dedicated ABS-off switch .
Lastly , a new connectivity unit connects the motorcycle to the rider ’ s smartphone via Bluetooth . It enables the rider to access features such as turn-byturn navigation , and music library directly from the dashboard .
The KTM 390 ENDURO R features selectable ride modes , with OFFROAD MODE being a feature . OFFROAD mode allows riders more rear wheel slip , making it easier to lift the front wheel over obstacles or slide the rear wheel when needed . The default setting is STREET MODE , calibrated for optimum use in the city or on motorways . However , for riders looking for even more control off-road , Motorcycle Traction Control can also be turned off completely for 100 % control . The KTM 125 ENDURO R has no selectable ride modes . All models in the 2025 lineup feature LED lights , providing excellent visibility during the day and illumination at night .
TRAVERSE 72