2027 KTM XC range revealed
KTM has unveiled its 2027 XC and XC-F cross-country range, with Australian and New Zealand availability expected from August 2026.
The XC family occupies an interesting place in KTM’s off-road hierarchy. These are not motocross bikes, nor are they EXC enduro machines with number plates and lights. Instead, the XC range treads the middle ground between KTM’s SX motocross bikes and EXC enduro line-up, aimed at faster off-road terrain, cross-country racing and riders who want a harder-edged package than the more compliant and road registerable EXC machines.
Where the EXC range is set up softer to help riders find traction in tighter, rougher and more technical enduro conditions, the XC models bring a firmer, more race-focused character. Suspension settings, chassis feel, and engine response are aimed more at carrying speed across open terrain than at crawling through hard enduro-style punishment.
That also means the XC machines generally take more work to prepare for registration purposes than their EXC brethren. For riders wanting a race-bike base for off-road competition that is not quite as motocross-specific as an SX, however, the XC platform has obvious appeal.
For 2027, KTM says the XC and XC-F models continue to draw directly from its Factory Racing programme, with chromoly steel frames, six-speed transmissions, WP XACT suspension and a refreshed visual package across the range.
The new graphics introduce red highlights on the tank shrouds, giving the 2027 models a stronger Factory Racing flavour while retaining KTM’s familiar orange identity. KTM continues to use in-mould graphics for durability in off-road racing conditions.
Engine choices cover both fuel-injected two-strokes and four-strokes, with the Australian range receiving a couple of notable inclusions. The 125 XC is listed as an Australian-only model and is perhaps the most surprising addition to the local line-up. A 125 cross-country weapon will not be for everyone, but for younger racers, lighter riders, or those who simply enjoy wringing the neck of a small-bore two-stroke, it is a welcome and interesting option.
At the other end of the range, Australia also receives the 450 XC-F, giving riders a big-bore four-stroke option for faster terrain and open cross-country use.
2027 KTM XC range
- KTM 125 XC Fuel-injected two-stroke
- KTM 250 XC Fuel-injected two-stroke
- KTM 300 XC Fuel-injected two-stroke
- KTM 250 XC-F Four-stroke
- KTM 350 XC-F Four-stroke
- KTM 450 XC-F Four-stroke
Suspension is handled by WP XACT components, with a closed-cartridge spring fork up front and WP XACT shock at the rear. KTM says the standard settings have been shaped by Factory Racing experience, with the aim of maintaining front-end confidence, rear-wheel traction and consistent performance over longer race distances and changing terrain.
On the four-stroke XC-F models, riders can also add the optional Connectivity Unit Offroad from KTM PowerParts. When paired with the KTMconnect app, the system allows engine character to be adjusted to suit conditions and rider preference.
The 2027 KTM XC and XC-F models are due to arrive in Australia and New Zealand from August 2026.
Shaun Jubber – KTM Australia
“There’s a strong demand for competitive 125cc enduro bikes among junior riders and developing racers. The 2027 KTM 125 XC brings a genuine Ready To Race package to that category and creates a natural progression pathway within the KTM off-road lineup.”
Pricing has yet to be set on the 2027 cross-country range.
