The first time you ease a quad bike into the Dubai dunes, the desert looks like a rolling ocean frozen in gold. The sand shifts beneath the tires, the horizon shimmers, and the engine's hum becomes your anchor in a landscape that seems to have no edges. For beginners, this is both the magic and the challenge: how do you enjoy the thrill without feeling out of your depth? The answer lies in understanding the terrain, choosing the right setup, and mastering a few simple techniques that turn the unknown into pure exhilaration.
Most beginner-friendly tours meet on the edge of the city and head toward the soft, red-tinted dunes near Lahbab, sometimes called the Red Dunes, or to the famous Big Red area at Al Badayer. The setting matters: these regions offer slopes that are large enough for fun but gentle enough for a first-timer to learn on. Reputable operators start with a safety briefing and a short practice session on flatter sand, which is where you should treat your first minutes like learning to ride a bicycle all over again-slow, patient, and deliberate.
Picking the right machine is half the battle. For beginners, a quad with an automatic transmission and moderate power (often in the 150–250cc range) is ideal. The thumb throttle keeps things intuitive: better to squeeze steadily than to jab. Most tour outfits maintain lower tire pressures for better flotation in soft sand, so you don't have to think about setup; your job is to stay relaxed on the bars, keep your eyes up, and let the bike do its work. Trust it. These machines are built to float and climb if you feed them smooth, consistent momentum.
Momentum is the word you'll hear again and again in the dunes. On hard-packed roads, you can get away with chopping the throttle and correcting later. On sand, abrupt inputs bite back. As you approach a slope, keep your speed gently rising and your upper body loose. Think of the throttle like a painter's brushstroke-continuous and flowing. If you need to slow down, ease off gradually rather than slamming the brakes. On descents, look far ahead, point the quad straight down the fall line, and feather the brakes just enough to stay composed. Over-braking at the top or turning sideways on a steep face is the most common beginner mistake; it's how you lose momentum and confidence at the same time.
Climbing a dune is a little like flying a kite. You pick your line, commit, and allow the machine to bring you up on a steady pull. As you near the crest, resist the urge to charge blindly over the ridge.
Quad Bike Dubai Al Marmoom sunset ride
Husqvarna
Hatta Mountains
Quad Bike Dubai group sunrise adventure
Quad Bike Dubai Al Marmoom sunset ride
Quad Bike Dubai Lahbab camp entertainment
The sand forms knife-like edges called cornices, and the other side may drop sharply. Quad Bike Dubai group sunrise adventure The safe habit is the stop-line technique: ease off just before the crest, peek, then either roll over gently or pivot along the ridge and descend where you can see. This single habit separates fluent dune riders from nervous first-timers and keeps everyone safe.
Body position matters too. When climbing, shift your weight slightly forward to keep the front wheels planted; when descending, inch your hips back to stay balanced. On side slopes, lean your torso uphill to counter the tilt. Don't fight the bars rigidly-let the front end dance a little and make small corrections. If the quad starts to bog in very soft patches, add just a touch more throttle and lighten your grip; spinning harder does less than staying poised and letting the tires find their bite.
Good tour guides enforce spacing and clear hand signals.
Quad Bike Dubai group sunrise adventure
Quad Bike Dubai college friends reunion
Quad Bike Dubai English speaking guides
Quad Bike Dubai advanced rider red dunes challenge
Quad Bike Dubai dune ride with falcon show
Quad Bike Dubai red dunes thrill and chill
Quad Bike Dubai GoPro video package
Quad Bike Dubai Lahbab family combo deal
Keep several bike lengths between you and the rider ahead so you have time to react if they stall or stop at a crest. Stick to your guide's tracks while you're learning; those lines show where the sand is supportive and where it's not.
Quad Bike Dubai Al Marmoom sunset ride
Dubai
Quad Bike Dubai advanced rider dunes
Quad Bike Dubai Lahbab red dune adventure
Quad Bike Dubai late afternoon golden hour
Quad Bike Dubai sunrise Lahbab picture stop
Can-Am Maverick
Sandboarding
And if you ever feel the bike tipping, remember the golden rule: let it go. Quad Bike Dubai combo with dune bashing . Do not try to hold up a rolling quad. Step or roll away, then reset with help.
Timing your ride can make a beginner's experience twice as enjoyable. Sunrise and sunset sessions are cooler, offer softer light, and often less wind. Midday sun can be unforgiving, and heat saps focus. Bring closed shoes, long sleeves, and a neck buff or scarf; sand finds every gap. Goggles or a visor are essential. Sunscreen, a light snack, and water before and after the ride go a long way. Eat lightly-big meals and bouncing dunes don't mix well.
Safety gear is your friend, not a formality. A proper helmet is non-negotiable. Gloves help with grip, and knee and elbow pads add comfort when you inevitably kneel in the sand to nudge the quad around. Operators usually supply helmets and goggles; ask ahead about the rest. Age, weight, and driving rules vary by company, so confirm whether you'll ride solo or as a passenger, and what the minimum requirements are.
There's a rhythm to the desert that rewards patience. Spend your first 10 minutes just feeling the surface-notice how darker, slightly damp sand carries more speed and how pale, fluffy patches are trickier. Learn to read the curves: windward slopes are gradual, leeward slopes steeper. Once you dial in these cues, the dunes shift from intimidating to inviting. That's when you can add simple play: carving gentle S-turns down a long face, surfing a ridge with the city skyline faint on the horizon, or parking at a high point to watch the sun tip the sand from amber to rose.
Beyond technique, there's desert etiquette. Respect the land-avoid tearing through shrubs or small trees, give any wildlife a wide berth, and pack out everything you bring. Follow the guide's routes, even when the empty spaces tempt you elsewhere. The desert is robust on the surface but delicate underneath, and a few good habits keep it special for the next rider.
Many beginners choose combo experiences that include sandboarding, a short camel ride, or a traditional camp dinner under the stars. These can be wonderful, but don't let them crowd your first ride. Give yourself the space to learn at your own pace. A 30- to 60-minute quad session is usually the sweet spot for a first-timer-enough to get comfortable, not so long that fatigue makes you sloppy.
If there's a single piece of advice that turns nervous novices into confident riders, it's this: relax into the flow and keep the throttle smooth. The quad wants to work with you. The dune is a shape to be read, not conquered. And the desert, for all its scale, is generous to those who move through it with a light touch.
By the time you cut the engine and slip off your helmet, you'll realize that beginner status doesn't last long in the dunes. It's amazing how quickly your senses calibrate: your eyes read the sand, your body moves without thinking, and your thumb finds the exact pressure the bike loves. That first ride in Dubai isn't just a tick on a bucket list-it's an invitation. The desert will still be there tomorrow, reshaped by the wind, ready to teach you a little more.
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About KTM
Austrian motorcycle and sports car manufacturer
This article is about the Austrian company. For the MotoGP team, see Red Bull KTM Factory Racing. For other uses, see KTM (disambiguation).
KTM AG
KTM Motorcycles headquarters in Mattighofen
Industry
Motor vehicles
Founded
1934 (92 years ago) (1934)
Founder
Hans Trunkenpolz
Headquarters
Mattighofen, Upper Austria
,
Austria
Area served
Worldwide
Key people
Gottfried Neumeister (chairman and CEO of the executive board)[1]
Products
Motorcycles, sports cars
Owner
Bajaj Auto (≈75% via Bajaj Mobility AG)[2]
Number of employees
2,931 (2017)[3]
Subsidiaries
Husqvarna Motorcycles
GasGas
WP Suspension
Website
ktmgroup.com ktm.com
KTM Fahrrad GmbH
Company type
Private
Industry
Bicycles
Founded
1934; 92 years ago (1934)
Founder
Hans Trunkenpolz
Headquarters
Wels, Upper Austria
,
Austria
Key people
Carol Urkauf-Chen
Johanna Urkauf
Stefan Limbrunner
Number of employees
800 (2022)[4]
Website
www.ktm-bikes.at
KTM AG (
German pronunciation:[kˌɑːtˌeːˈɛm]) is an Austrian motorcycle, bicycle and motorsports brand. It traces its foundation to 1934 as Kronreif & Trunkenpolz Mattighofen. Today, Bajaj Mobility AG (formerly Pierer Mobility AG) operates as the manufacturer of KTM-branded motorcycles, and KTM Fahrrad GmbH operates as the manufacturer of KTM-branded bicycles.
KTM is known for its off-road motorcycles and as a reputed MotoGP constructor.
In November 2025, it was announced that Bajaj Auto had completed the acquisition of a controlling stake in KTM for €800 million, increasing its indirect holding to approximately 75%.[5]
History
[edit]
Hans Trunkenpolz and Ernst Kronreif
Early years
[edit]
In 1934, Austrian engineer Johann (Hans) Trunkenpolz (1909–1962)[6] set up a fitter's and car repair shop[7] in Mattighofen. In 1937, he started selling DKW motorcycles, and Opel cars the following year. His shop was known as Kraftfahrzeug Trunkenpolz Mattighofen, but the name was unregistered. During the Second World War, his wife took care of the business which was thriving mainly on account of diesel engine repairs.[8]
After the war, demand for repair works fell sharply and Trunkenpolz started thinking about producing his own motorcycles. The prototype of his first motorcycle, the R100, was built in 1951.[9] The components of the motorcycle were produced in house, except for the Rotax engines which were made by Fichtel & Sachs. Serial production of the R100 started in 1953. With just 20 employees, motorcycles were built at a rate of three per day.[10]
Kronreif & Trunkenpolz Era [1953–1991]
[edit]
In 1953, businessman Ernst Kronreif became a major shareholder of the company, which was renamed and registered as Kronreif & Trunkenpolz Mattighofen. In 1954, the R125 Tourist was introduced,[11] followed by the Grand Tourist[12] and the scooter Mirabell[13] in 1955.
The company secured its first racing title in the 1954 Austrian 125cc national championship.[14] In 1956, KTM made its appearance at the International Six Days Trials, where Egon Dornauer won a gold medal on a KTM machine.[15]
In 1957, KTM built its first sports motorcycle, the Trophy 125cc.[16] KTM's first moped, named Mecky, was launched in 1957, followed by Ponny I in 1960 and Ponny II in 1962 and Comet in 1963.[17] The 1960s also saw the beginning of bicycle production in Mattighofen.
Ernst Kronreif died in 1960.[18] Two years later in 1962,[19] Hans Trunkenpolz also died of a heart attack. His son, Erich Trunkenpolz, took charge of the company's management.
As the company continued to expand, the workforce totaled 400 in 1971, and forty years after it was founded, KTM was offering 42 different models. Additionally, KTM was able to produce motorcycles for the racing industry. During the 1970s and 80s, KTM also started to develop and produce engines and radiators. Radiators sold to European car manufacturers constituted a sizable part of the company's business in the 1980s.[20]
In 1978,[21] US subsidiary KTM North America Inc. was founded in Lorain, Ohio.
In 1980, the company was renamed KTM Motor-Fahrzeugbau KG.[20] One year later, KTM had about 700 employees and a turnover of 750m. Schilling (about 54.5m. euros). International business then amounted to 76% of the company's turnover.[20]
However, scooter and moped turnover sank rapidly, and production had to be halted in 1988.[20] Erich Trunkenpolz died in 1989. Takeover of a 51% interest in the company by the Austrian investment trust GIT Trust Holding controlled by Austrian politician Josef Taus in 1989 was followed by unsuccessful attempts to turn the indebted company around,[22] and in 1991, management of KTM was transferred to a consortium of creditor banks.
In 1991, the company was split into four new entities: KTM Sportmotorcycle GmbH (motorcycles division), KTM Fahrrad GmbH (bicycles division), KTM Kühler GmbH (radiators division) and KTM Werkzeugbau GmbH (tooling division).
Bicycles: Urcauf Family Era [1992 Onwards]
[edit]
After the split, Urcauf family took over the bicycle division KTM Fahrrad GmbH in 1992.
In 1994, they started producing bikes with aluminium frames and electric bikes.
In 1996, Carol Urkauf-Chen takes over the company.
In 1998, They adopt orange colour in their logo.
In 2006 they launch bikes with full carbon frame.
In 2007, they shift to a new headquarter in Wels, Upper Austria.
In 2018 Owner Carol Urkauf-Chen moves to the supervisory board, Johanna Urkauf and Stefan Limbrunner act as managing directors.
Motorcycles: Stefan Pierer Era [1992-2025]
[edit]
Austrian Automotive entrepreneur Stefan Peirer took control of KTM Motorcycles in 1992 and later took over the sibling tooling division KTM Werkzeugbau. In the following years, while steadily increasing production and turnover, investing in new production and R&D facilities,[23][24][25] introducing new models and successfully sponsoring and taking part in various sports racing events, the company underwent a series of restructurings and stakeholder changes guided by KTM's managing director Stefan Pierer.
In 1994, KTM started production of the Duke series of road motorcycles; in 1996, KTM motocross machines were first decked out in KTM's signature orange color,[26] and 1997 saw the introduction of liquid-cooled two-cylinder Supermoto and Adventure motorcycles. In 2007, the company debuted the KTM X-Bow sports car.[27]
In 1995, KTM acquired Swedish motorcycle maker Husaberg AB and took control of the Dutch company WP Suspension.
In 2007, Indian motorcycle manufacturer Bajaj Auto acquired a 14.5% stake in KTM; which by 2013, increased to 47.97%.
In 2010 KTM Kühler divested their automotive radiator business to Mahle GmbH and the motorcycle radiator business to WP Suspension under WP Radiator brand.[28]
In 2013, KTM acquired the formerly Swedish motorcycle maker Husqvarna Motorcycles from its prior owner BMW.[23] The same year, KTM re-integrated the brand Husaberg into Husqvarna Motorcycles from which it had spun off in the 1990s when Husqvarna was sold to the Italian company Cagiva. In 2019, KTM acquired a majority stake of 60% in the Spanish enduro motorcycle brand GasGas.[29] In 2020 GasGas became a wholly owned subsidiary of KTM.[30]
In 2021 Bajaj Auto sold 46.5% of KTM's shares to Pierer Mobility AG in exchange for 49% shares in the latter company[31] and thus became an indirect stakeholder in KTM.
In 2022, KTM's Parent Company Pierer Mobility acquired a 25.1% stake in Italian motorcycle company MV Agusta;[32] and increased to a majority 50.1% in 2024.[33]
In 2023 Pierer Mobility's financial situation became increasingly unsustainable and by 2024 they had a heavy debt to pay off.[34] In 2024 KTM went into self imposed administration.[35] Pierer Mobility was compelled to sell their stake in MV Agusta back to the previous owners the Sardarov family.[36]
In the early 2025 Stefan Pierer started exiting from executives roles in KTM and its affiliates, making way for new investors.[37]
Motorcycles: Bajaj Auto Era [2025 onwards]
[edit]
In 2025, Bajaj Auto, who were until now holding 49% stake in Pierer Mobility had offerred to take full control of KTM and its sister concerns by an 800 million Euro debt package. The deal was concluded in November 2025. Pierer Mobility is due to be rennamed as Bajaj Mobility which will hold 74.94% shares in KTM; rest of which lies in public hands.
Operations
[edit]
At present, KTM brand is operated by two corporate houses-
Bajaj Auto — motorcycles & affiliated businesses
KTM Fahrrad GmbH — bicycles & related businesses
KTM Motorcycles
[edit]
KTM has facilities in Austria, India (partnership with Bajaj), and China (partnership with CFMoto) producing over 380,000 motorcycles (290,000 KTM models) in 2023.[38][39] The main production site located at Mattighofen, Austria manufacturers majority of the models. In collaboration with Bajaj, the facilitiy located in Pune, India is responsible for producing smaller displacement motorcycles, including the Duke and RC series, for both the domestic and international markets.[40] KTM and CFMOTO oversee the global production of the two LC8c models (790 Duke and 790 Adventure) in Hangzhou, China.
Furthermore, KTM Sportmotorcycle GmbH and Husqvarna Motorcycles GmbH operate 24 and 8 distribution subsidiaries worldwide, respectively, most of them in European and Asian countries and in the US.
Joint ventures
[edit]
KTM started exporting their GS model to the US in 1968 through an American importer, John Penton under the Penton brand. This joint venture lasted until KTM established KTM America Inc. in Ohio in 1978.[41]
In 2005, KTM-Sportmotocycle began a partnership with ATV manufacturer Polaris Industries with the goal of shared research, and more importantly shared distribution networks. This partnership was a two-year trial arrangement, at the end of which both parties had the option of merging the two companies into one. In 2006, KTM announced that the partnership with Polaris had been downgraded, and would instead only supply their 450cc and 510cc RFS engines to Polaris.[42]
In January 2008, Bajaj announced that it would jointly develop two new 125cc and 200cc bikes for Europe and the Far East. The bikes would be badged KTM.[43] In January 2012, Bajaj launched the Duke 200 model in India.[44]
In November 2022 KTM acquired a 25,1 % stake in the Italian motorcycle manufacturer MV Agusta.[45]
KTM Bike Industries
[edit]
KTM as a brand is also used by KTM Fahrrad GmbH, which, as the exclusive licensee, manufactures bicycles and bicycle accessories. This company originated by the spin-off of KTM in 1991 and shares the same history and heritage as that of KTM Motorcycles.
Motorsports
[edit]
Mika Kallio's 125 cc road race motorcycleSamuli Aro's WEC E2 class bikeTony Cairoli's 350 SX bike
KTM entered motorsports competing in motocross racing. KTM won its first championship in 1974 when Gennady Moiseyev claimed the 250cc Motocross World Championship.[46] By the end of 2016, KTM had won more than 260 world championship titles, making the company one of the most successful brands in motorsports.[23] KTM has claimed 96 MXGP, MX1 and MX2 world titles since 1974 and 114 E1, E2, E3 and Super Enduro world titles since 1990. With Ryan Dungey's 2015, 2016 and 2017 victories in the supercross world championship, KTM gained a successful presence in supercross racing as well. In 1994, a KTM factory team debuted at the Dakar Rally. In 1998, KTM riders won second to twelfth place. With consecutive wins from 2001 to 2019, the manufacturer has dominated the rally for 18 years now. KTM teams successfully compete in other rally raid events like the Atlas Rally or the Rallye du Maroc. KTM has won 37 cross country rallies world titles since 2003 and has won the FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship 15 times, most recently in 2015.
In 2003, KTM started sponsoring and supporting road racing in various capacities, with the most successful results stemming from their supermoto efforts. From 2003 to 2009, a KTM factory team competed in the 125 cc class of the motorcycle Grands Prix, and between 2005 and 2008 in the 250 cc class. Notable successes in the 125 cc class were the second and third place in the overall ranking scored in 2005 by KTM riders Mika Kallio and Gábor Talmácsi, the second place in 2006 by Mika Kallio, the third place in 2007 by Tomoyoshi Koyama and the 2005 KTM victory in the 125 cc constructor's championship. In the 250 cc class, Mika Kallio won third place in 2008. Since the first Rookies Cup season in 2007, KTM has supplied the bike for the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup.
Grand Prix motorcycle racing
[edit]
In 2009, KTM announced their withdrawal from Grand Prix motorcycle racing in all classes, and did not return until 2012 in the new Moto3 class.
In 2012, KTM won the Moto3 manufacturers' championship. During the next season, KTM riders prevailed in every race of the Moto3 class and won the world title as well as second and third place, making KTM the obvious victor of the manufacturers' standing. KTM won the manufacturer title in the 2014 and 2016 as well as the world title in 2016 in the Moto3 class. Starting in 2017, KTM fields bikes in both MotoGP and Moto2 classes as well. The main class team features Jack Miller and Brad Binder as full-season riders, Mika Kallio as wildcard rider, and Dani Pedrosa as test/development rider. The Moto2 KTM Ajo team features Pedro Acosta and Albert Arenas. Steadfastly independent and confident of their company's abilities, KTM chose to use a steel trellis frame where all other manufacturers used aluminum. In addition, KTM insisted on developing their own racing suspension through their WP subsidiary (all other manufacturers used Öhlins). KTM demonstrated their prowess in doing things their own way by winning their first Moto GP premier class race on August 9, 2020, with rookie Brad Binder crossing the finish line in first place.
From 2009[47] to 2011,[48] KTM teams competed in the IDM, the Superbike International German Championships. There were speculations about a possible KTM foray[49] into the superbike world championship. Due to the company's focus shifting away from the RC8 and generally superbike design, these plans are off the table for the foreseeable future.[50]
KTM's official company/team colours are orange, black and silver. To create a strong brand identity, all competition-ready KTMs come from the factory with bright orange plastic with "KTM" emblazoned on the side of the radiator shrouds. All KTM bikes also come from the factory with a Motorex sticker on the outside of the motor. All first fills of oil come from Motorex as well. Some official KTM teams use different colors for their bikes, most noticeably in the Dakar Rally.
Products
[edit]
Off-road motorcycles
[edit]
KTM manufactures a wide range of off-road motorcycles. Not all of their models are available in every country. The following section lists bikes that are sold in the US.
Motocross – The current Motocross line designated by SX includes 50, 65, 85, 105, 125, 150, 250 and 300 cc single-cylinder two-stroke models (the 50 SX, 65 SX and 85 SX models are kids' and youth bikes), and 250, 350 and 450 cc single-cylinder four-stroke models (SX-F).[51] In 2005 KTM released the new 250SX-F to the general public. Since 2007, the SX-F's have been KTM's new racing motocross range. Current versions of the KTM SX-F line have a dual overhead camshaft engine dubbed the “RC4”.
Cross-Country – The current cross-country line designated by XC includes 150, 250 and 300 cc two-stroke models and 250, 350 and 450 cc four-stroke models. The two-stroke XC machines except the 150 cc model are available with either wide-ratio or close-ratio transmission (when switching gears, there is a more or less pronounced rpm change). The four-stroke models are fitted with a semi-close ratio gearbox. Most models are equipped with an electric starter.[52]
The very lightweight XC bikes are competition bikes only; they do not meet homologation regulations.
Enduro – The street-legal EXC enduro versions of KTM's XC cross-country bikes are supplied with plusher non-linkage suspensions, a wider-ratio gear box and lights.
The current line available in the US consists of 350, 450 and 500 (actually 510 cc) four-stroke EXC models.[52]
Free Ride – A KTM original class of off-road motorcycle that could be described as a cross between Enduro and trials bikes. The Freeride 250R is powered by a lighter, modified version of the 250 EXC Enduro engine and has a specially developed six-speed gearbox with close transmission ratios in the lower gears and a wide ratio for the sixth gear.[53] A four-stroke 350 cc free ride model with similar characteristics,[54] and the all-electric single-speed models Freeride E-SX, Freeride E-XC as well as their street version Freeride E-SM are available in Europe.[55]
KTM Motorcycles Models List
Category
Model
Engine Type
Engine Designation
Status
Picture
Motocross
SX
2-Stroke
50cc; 65cc; 85cc; 125cc; 250cc; 300cc
In Production
450 SX-F
SX-F
4-Stroke
250cc; 350cc; 450cc
In Production
SX-E
Electric
1.8KW; 3.8KW; 5.0 KW
In Production
Freeride
E-XC
Electric
18KW
In Production
Freeride E-XC
Enduro
EXC
2-Stroke
125cc; 150cc; 250cc; 300cc
In Production
350 EXC-F
XC-W
2-Stroke
150cc; 250cc; 300cc
In Production
EXC-F
4-Stroke
450cc
Old
EXC-F
Plated
4-Stroke
350cc; 500cc
In Production
XCF-W
4-Stroke
450cc
In Production
Cross Country
XC
2-Stroke
250cc; 300cc
In Production
300XC
XC-F
4-Stroke
250cc; 350cc; 450cc
In Production
Dual Sport
Enduro R
4-Stroke
125cc; 390cc; 690cc
In Production
690 Enduro R
Adventure
Adventure
4-Stroke
390cc, 890cc
In Production
2022 390 Adventure
Super Adventure
LC8c: 4-Stroke; 75° V-twin
1290cc
In Production
Rally Replica
4-Stroke
450cc
In Production
Sports Tourer
Super Duke GT
4-Stroke
1290cc
In Production
SMT
4-Stroke
890cc
In Production
Supermoto
SMR
4-Stroke
450cc
In Production
690 SMC R
SMC R
4-Stroke
125cc; 390cc; 690cc
In Production
Naked
Duke
LC4c: 4-Stroke; Single Cylinder
LC8c: 4-Stroke; Parallel Twin
250cc; 390cc; 990cc
In Production
2018 Duke 790
Super Duke
LC8: 4-Stroke; 75° V-twin
1390cc
In Production
Brabus
4-Stroke; 75° V-twin
1400cc
In Production
Supersport
RC
4-Stroke
390cc
In Production
RC 390
RC 8C
4-Stroke; Parallel Twin
890cc
In Production
990 RC R
Parallel-twin, 4-stroke
990cc
In Production
Two-stroke development
[edit]
In the 1990s, AMA rule changes put the cheaper, simpler two-stroke machines at a disadvantage to four-stroke bikes in motocross competitions by limiting two-stroke displacement at 125 cc for the 250 cc class and 250 cc for the 450 cc class.[56] While other manufacturers have decided to discontinue their two-stroke models, KTM has continued with creating and improving their two-stroke engines and has consequently taken up a very high proportion of the two-stroke bike market.
New European emission laws have increased the pressure on two-stroke bikes, as their engines are less fuel efficient and produce more pollution than four-stroke engines. However, with newer advances in technology, two-strokes have begun to burn cleaner and pass stricter environmental standards. Starting in 2017, all newly registered motorcycles must conform with the Euro 4 regulations for emissions management. In May 2017, KTM unveiled a new two-stroke engine with direct fuel injection. By pressure-injecting an electronically controlled amount of fuel into the transfer port of the cylinder, the new TPI (transfer port injection) engines will be more fuel efficient and cleaner than classic carburetor two-stroke engines, albeit more complex and expensive. By 2018, 250 and 300 EXC TPI enduro models will be powered by the new engine.[57]
Street and Dual Purpose Bikes
[edit]
KTM Duke 620 – KTM's first stock supermoto bike
The first KTM street bike was the 1994 Duke 620.[58][59][60]
Further information: Types of motorcycles § Dual-purpose
Further information: Types of motorcycles § Standard
Standard/Naked – With the Duke and Superduke models, KTM currently offers naked bikes with 250, 390, 990 and 1390 cc displacement. The 125 (not available in the US), 250 and 390 models have a single-cylinder four-stroke LC4 motor. The 990 Duke use a new twin-parallel engine. The 1390 R Superduke model is equipped with a 75 degree V-twin four-stroke motor (LC8).[61]
The 200, 250 and 390 Duke models are currently produced by Bajaj Auto in Pune, India. The 250 is only available in Asia, with only the Duke 390 and Duke 200 being exported to European countries and North America.
Further information: Dual-sport motorcycle
Dual Sport – KTM currently produces the 390 Enduro R and 690 Enduro R Dual sport models which are basically road bikes suitable for off-road excursions. These bikes typically have lower seat heights and more comfort features than a "street legal" off-road bike.
Further information: Touring motorcycle § Adventure tourers
Adventure touring – KTM currently produces the 390 Adventure, 890 Adventure R, and 1290 Super Adventure dual-sport adventure bikes in versions with different seat height, wheels and suspensions that endow the machines with a road (S), off-road (R – for rally) or touring (T) bias.[62] Not all versions are available on the US market.
The 1090 Adventure and 1290 Super Adventure bikes are powered by 75 degree V-twin four-stroke motors (LC8). The 790 Adventure is powered by the new LC8c parallel twin four-stroke motor. All 3 feature a slipper clutch, electronically controlled riding modes (sport, street and rain) with the 1290 and 790 featuring a TFT display and the 1090 featuring a twin (analog plus LCD) display.
Further information: Sports motorcycle
Sport – KTM sport bikes currently offered in the supersport category include the RC 125 (not available in the US) and the RC 390. Both are street-legal versions of bikes that compete in street races. With the RC16, KTM has presented a 1000 cc sport bike that will race in the MotoGP class of the 2017 Road Racing World Championship Grand Prix.[63] Whether there will be a street-legal production version of the RC16 at a later point in time is yet unclear.
In Asia, KTM also markets RC 200 and RC 250 street bikes. KTM is also planning to introduced a new 150cc bike in its RC lineup in the Asian countries. This would be the KTC RC 150, that will powered by a 149cc, single-cylinder engine and 6-speed gearbox. This will be launched at a more affordable price, so everyone can opt for it.[64]
Main article: Sport touring motorcycle
Sports Touring – The KTM sports tourer 1290 Superduke GT (Gran Turismo) is a version of the 1290 Superduke R naked bike that has been modified for more touring comfort with a longer and more robust frame, modified handlebar, larger fuel tank and modified 75 degree V-twin four-stroke LC8 motor. Like the 1290 Super Adventure, the 1290 Superduke GT features three electronically controlled riding modes.[65]
Main article: Supermoto § Machines
Supermoto – KTM was the first manufacturer to offer a competition-ready supermoto bike to the public. However, the company stopped supermoto production in 2016 to focus on stock 690 SMC R machines. For the 2019 Model year, the 690 SMC R model was completely renewed. The bike now has the latest version of the single cylinder LC4 power unit, introduced for the MY2016 Duke. The previous supermoto models included the 625 SMC and the race version 560 SMR. The 141 kg light 690 SMC R model has a 48 kW liquid-cooled one-cylinder four-stroke motor (LC4) and a hydraulically actuated APTC slipper clutch.[66]
X-Bow
[edit]
KTM X-Bow GT4
Main article: KTM X-Bow
The KTM X-Bow (pronounced cross-bow) is a series of lightweight, two-seater sports cars known as the X-Bow R, the X-Bow RR, the X-Bow GT and the X-BOW GT4.[67] The R and GT versions of the X-Bow are street-legal in Europe, North America, China and Australia. It uses an Audi engine and a carbon fibre chassis developed in cooperation with Italian racing car manufacturer Dallara, making it the world's first street-legal car with a full carbon fibre monocoque.
Discontinued
[edit]
KTM retired from superbike production and competitions.[50] From 2008 to 2015, the company produced the 1190 RC8 superbike, a light, powerful homologated (street-legal) bike for superbike competitions with an LC8 motor and without any of the electronic driving aids that the otherwise comparable Superduke and Super Adventure models offer.
KTM has ceased production of 450SX, 450XC, 505SX and 525XC All-terrain vehicles
Design
[edit]
Since 2016,[68] KTM motorcycles have been designed by KISKA GmbH, a Salzburg-based design firm. KISKA also designed four versions of the X-Bow and is responsible for the overall branding for KTM and Husqvarna.
Parts and Wear
[edit]
Under the Powerparts label, KTM sells tuning and styling parts for its street and off-road motorcycles and the X-Bow.[69] The Powerwear label offers race gear and equipment, clothing, accessories and merchandise articles.[70]
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External links
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Great camping spot.
On a hot day 41° it wasn't as bad as we expected.
We were picked up from a location far away which is very convenient.
We arrive at the location, and we transfer to offroad car, the driver wasn't fun at all that's why I gave 4 star, he wasn't speeding or doing aggressive maneuvers. I've been to other safari's and the sand was flying and hitting the windows.
We arrive at camp and they told us we have food, sheesha, sand boarding, camel ride, henna, and soft drinks for free.
But they will negotiate everything to pay extra.
Extra for camel ride for extra time.
Extra for food to stay VIP on top of the camping, extra for sheesha to take it to ur table, extra to give you pic with camel, extra to sell you arabian dress, extra for bigger henna.
The experience was very nice. We enjoyed the sunset, didn't get the chance to snowboard or try sheesha.
The food was acceptable.
One of the best Desert Safari organizers in Dubai, highly recommended. They do it in a very professional manner. They are always on time, the drivers are more than qualified to give you the full dune bashing experience with the sense of responsibility to the guests safety. The vehicles are in a high condition to give the guests the comfort needed during the journey from the pick up point and during every moment of the trip. The location of the camp is taking in consideration the weather condition. The food quality and quantity is high and the show is interesting. The bathroom condition is great, neat and clean and in a convenient spot within the camp. All this for a very reasonable and competitive price.
Arabian Nights Tours Camp in Abu Dhabi, UAE, offers an immersive desert adventure experience. Located in the heart of the Arabian desert, the camp provides guests with a traditional Bedouin-style setting, complete with comfortable tents and authentic decor. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including dune bashing, camel rides, and sandboarding. The camp also features cultural entertainment such as belly dancing, henna painting, and traditional music. Guests are treated to a sumptuous buffet of Arabic cuisine under the stars, making for a memorable and picturesque desert experience. Arabian Nights Tours Camp combines adventure, culture, and relaxation in a stunning desert landscape.
It was an amazing experience driving through the desert with a 4x4, having a great dinner in the camp with good entertainment. And our driver Mohammed was awesome: very friendly, always pointing out interesting things to see and thankfully very skilled when driving through the dunes.
Desert Safari Dubai - Dune Buggy Rental & ATV Quad Bike Tours - Marasi Drive - Dubai - United Arab Emirates, Lake Central Tower 4th Floor - Office 404 مراسي درايف - الخليج التجاري - دبي - United Arab Emirates
Desert Safari Dubai - Dune Buggy Rental & ATV Quad Bike Tours - Marasi Drive - Dubai - United Arab Emirates, Lake Central Tower 4th Floor - Office 404 مراسي درايف - الخليج التجاري - دبي - United Arab Emirates
Desert Safari Dubai - Dune Buggy Rental & ATV Quad Bike Tours - Marasi Drive - Dubai - United Arab Emirates, Lake Central Tower 4th Floor - Office 404 مراسي درايف - الخليج التجاري - دبي - United Arab Emirates
Desert Safari Dubai - Dune Buggy Rental & ATV Quad Bike Tours - Marasi Drive - Dubai - United Arab Emirates, Lake Central Tower 4th Floor - Office 404 مراسي درايف - الخليج التجاري - دبي - United Arab Emirates
Desert Safari Dubai - Dune Buggy Rental & ATV Quad Bike Tours - Marasi Drive - Dubai - United Arab Emirates, Lake Central Tower 4th Floor - Office 404 مراسي درايف - الخليج التجاري - دبي - United Arab Emirates
Desert Safari Dubai - Dune Buggy Rental & ATV Quad Bike Tours - Marasi Drive - Dubai - United Arab Emirates, Lake Central Tower 4th Floor - Office 404 مراسي درايف - الخليج التجاري - دبي - United Arab Emirates
Desert Safari Dubai - Dune Buggy Rental & ATV Quad Bike Tours - Marasi Drive - Dubai - United Arab Emirates, Lake Central Tower 4th Floor - Office 404 مراسي درايف - الخليج التجاري - دبي - United Arab Emirates
Desert Safari Dubai - Dune Buggy Rental & ATV Quad Bike Tours - Marasi Drive - Dubai - United Arab Emirates, Lake Central Tower 4th Floor - Office 404 مراسي درايف - الخليج التجاري - دبي - United Arab Emirates
Desert Safari Dubai - Dune Buggy Rental & ATV Quad Bike Tours - Marasi Drive - Dubai - United Arab Emirates, Lake Central Tower 4th Floor - Office 404 مراسي درايف - الخليج التجاري - دبي - United Arab Emirates
Desert Safari Dubai - Dune Buggy Rental & ATV Quad Bike Tours - Marasi Drive - Dubai - United Arab Emirates, Lake Central Tower 4th Floor - Office 404 مراسي درايف - الخليج التجاري - دبي - United Arab Emirates
