The world of off-road motorcycles is a very tough and competitive one, and that means we're often treated to incredible machines. But few of the bikes that play in this segment are as suited for the job as the ones called hardenduro. Significantly beefed-up versions of enduro bikes, these monsters on two wheels are meant to be ridden pretty hard, anywhere. And they are also quite rare, which makes every time a new one comes to light an event that needs to be discussed.
It's hard to find in the off-road world a name that is more respected than that of KTM. The Austrian bike maker has been at it with an incredible degree of success for three decades now, landing itself no less than 126 titles in various competitions.
Back in 2023 KTM announced one of the most significant revamps of its EXC range of enduro motorcycles, releasing a lineup that featured 95 percent new components. The range was given a new refresh earlier this month as well, getting the bikes ready for the 2025 model year.
Neither in 2023 nor a few days ago did KTM release the specs for the 300 EXC Hardenduro at the same time with the other bikes. The special model deserves special attention, and that's why, in both instances, it was presented separately.
When it was announced a year ago the motorcycle stepped into the world as a "celebration of the most challenging hard enduro races on Earth." The bike took its place at the top of its range as the flagship model, building on the motorcycle that helped German rider Manuel Lettenbichler snatch the Hard Enduro World Championship title back in 2022.
The 300 EXC was introduced for the masses with a new frame that held a two-stroke engine, a closed-cartridge suspension system, Metzeler 6 Days Extreme tires, and a series of protective components meant to keep the bike safe no matter the dangers thrown at it by complicated courses.
Photo: KTM
Since its arrival, the model has already managed to win two races of the 2024 FIM Hard Enduro World Championship, and scored three consecutive wins at the Red Bull Erzbergrodeo in the hands of the aforementioned Lettenbichler.
To make sure the achievements continue, KTM revamped the Hardenduro for the 2025 model year as well, and the changes, although not that extensive, are at least worth a closer look. Before getting into it, it's worth mentioning that the tweaks were made based on the input provided by the bike's riders after they used them in competitions.
The main modification has to do with the bike's suspension system, and in a nutshell, this minor change means that the 300 EXC Hardenduro is a bike that uses fully adjustable suspension of both ends.
The bike still uses the 48 mm WP XACT closed-cartridge spring fork at the front, but the system now comes with a new adjustment of the base valve preload.
Changing the settings of the hardware can be done by hand, and it allows for a total travel distance of four mm. That may not seem like much, but it should produce substantial effects, according to KTM.
These effects include an increased preload on fast tracks, which should translate into improved stability, or decreased preload, which is ideal for use on courses such as river beds.
Photo: KTM
KTM says it also made modifications to some other of the bike's component parts, including the rear shock settings, chain glider, and fuel tank roll. The specifics of each of the upgrades have not been disclosed.
The other major change made to the bike is visual only, and translates into a new paint scheme for the bodywork in black and orange, highlighted by hardenduro graphics. The frame stays orange as well, while the seat comes in black, just as the wheels and CNC machined triple clamps.
Compared to the standard 300 EXC, the Hardenduro version is fitted with a map select switch, a wrap-around handguard kit, and a skid plate to protect the underside. Protective elements have been designed for the brake discs and clutch.
This ultimate ready-to-race package, as KTM calls the Hardenduro, has already replaced the 2024 model year on the bike maker's configurator. Despite being there, though, you'll still have to get in touch with your local dealer to learn something about the asking price.
The bike will start rolling off the assembly line soon, with the first examples expected to land in their owners' hands starting September.
As for the rest of the EXC range, the updates made earlier this month also meant the return of the 125 XC-W, a junior enduro riding machine that hasn't been offered since 2016. The rest of the bike pack comprises three more two-stroke motorcycles (the 150 EXC, 250 EXC, and 300 EXC), and no less than four four-stroke ones (250 EXC-F, 350 EXC-F, 450 EXC-F, and 500 EXC-F).
Daniel loves writing (or so he claims), and he uses this skill to offer readers a "behind the scenes" look at the automotive industry. He also enjoys talking about space exploration and robots, because in his view the only way forward for humanity is away from this planet, in metal bodies. Full profile
Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?
Google News