KTM Previews the Freeride Project Motorcycle

Austrian manufacturer KTM seems to be on the way towards the production of a series-ready zero emission motorcycle. The orange brand showcased two versions of an electrically-driven sports motorcycle for the first time at the Tokyo Motorcycle Show the past weekend, both transporting the company motto “Ready to Race” into the future of mobility.

The offroad machine as well as the onroad bike have been on display at the show under the label “KTM Freeride”.

The company says the first Freeride motorcycle from KTM will be under 10,000 euros, which is on a similar level with an Enduro motorcycle with a combustion engine currently being deployed in the world championship. Performance wise, it is comparable to that of a 125 cc 2-stroke machine with a combustion engine.

“Factors like abrasion resistance, dirt and water resistance, life span, handling and above all safety that have been solved in an impressive way for the maximum 22 KW strong motor. This is thanks to the battery drive unit, which has been patented worldwide by KTM,” Harald Plöckinger, COO and Board Member of KTM Sportmotorcycle, said in a release.

“The Freeride project motorcycle also profits from the competence and experience of all of KTM’s past activities in motorcycle racing. This and the high quality components, which to a large extent have been developed and produced in Mattighofen, characterize how determinedly we are introducing the KTM zero emission products that exceed the demands of the sport’s strict regulations,” added Plöckinger.

The series production of the new KTM Freeride sports Enduro is likely to begin in the coming year. On the other hand, the Supermoto-oriented Freeride variant shall, from today’s perspective, serve to illustrate other future applications for KTM’s zero emission concept.