Air Forks In A Minicycle World
KTM introduced the 2017 minicycles which include the 50 SX Mini, 50 SX, 65 SX, and 85 SX to the world today. They are designed to get the youngest riders into the sport of motocross from the first race to the KJSC race in the stadiums at multiple supercross races around the country every year on the 50 SX.
New for 2017, the 50 SX features an all new WP AER 35 air fork! The forks weighs 750g less than the traditional spring forks previously used on this bike and is the only bike in its class to feature this cutting-edge technology. In addition to the weight reduction and claimed better performance, the AER 35’s allow the forks to be set up for drastically different rider weights without having to buy new springs as riders continue to grow and develop their skills. KTM also updated the rear shock with a new shock absorber linked directly to the swingarm to allow for better damping performance and more adjustability. Also, a new exhaust pipe is utilized to put out more power and smoother power delivery. Lastly, it received bodywork and graphics to resemble the full-size SX models.
Similar to the 50 SX, the 65 SX also got the new WP AER 35 air forks mounted to the front of the bike dropping 1.7 lbs off of the total weight. The 35mm forks feature 215mm of travel and optimize the performance and directional stability when navigating the roughest terrain. The 65 SX is the only bike in its class that features the new air technology.
Inside the engine, the cylinder also benefits from the PCEV, or pressure controlled exhaust valve, allowing the KTM to have the leading motor in its class. Also, the hydraulic clutch allows for easy shifting throughout the 6-speed transmission. Being able to stop this much power requires having the powerful four-piston calipers gripping the 198mm and 160mm wave rotors. Lastly, the bodywork and updated graphics mimic those of the full-size 2017 KTM’s.
The KTM 85 SX features a top-quality chromoly steel frame along with an aluminum subframe mated to WP 43mm forks and PDS monoshock. The Formula brakes offer outstanding braking power with four-pistons in the front and two-pistons in the rear Also, no tools are required for changing out the air filter similar to the bigger bikes which makes for a much faster and easier air filter change. Lastly, the new graphics and black Excel rims take after the 2017 full-size bikes.
It is good KTM is looking after their smallest race bikes because the competition is as well. Cobra has been improving its 50cc mini and Yamaha is rumored to be introducing an all-new 65cc racer and a heavily revised YZ85 for 2017.
