I think its a good bike, and anyone would be lucky to own one. I wish more of the gas bike manufacturers would be making EV's. KTM however, isn't doing so well and may be going away, and fear of difficulty finding parts in the future.
Yeah it’s a great bike. Fun as hell. Since ditching my gas bikes I might add a Varg to the garage or wait for the Honda, but I have no desire to get rid of my EXC
Back in the mid-80s, I raced a 500 - I absolutely loved it. Fast-forward 35 years and 35 kg, and I started riding again on this KTM. I absolutely loved it. The three power levels were perfect for relearning how to ride. It was also perfect because I was able to buy sessions at a place that is only 25km from the house. The small track is only 400m from medium-density housing.
the small battery gets charged when you charge the big battery. But the big battery has to be left in the bike for it to do so. I ride E-XC's for 6 years now. It's still a fun solid bike, but I'll be changing for the start vary EX next year. I need more topspeed and power
@@ElectricCycleRider My first one was the 2017 model with the smallest battery. My second one was the 2019 model with the bigger battery. I have the 2nd one still.
@@ElectricCycleRider Put a volt meter on it and when you start the bike the voltage should go up to about 14volts from say 12.6.The small battery charges when the bike is on. Otherwise the headlight would drain it in 30 minutes of riding. And when parked with the kill switch on the headlight will drain the battery
You’ve just added another option to my list! Now I’m considering these: a modified UB for 9k€, a Varg-EX for 13k€, or a used Freeride for ~4k€ plus the cost of a custom-built battery. I’m curious why no one has considered the last option yet. Unlike dirt-bike retrofits, modifying an existing Freeride would allow it to remain in the road-legal category.
@@luca_dierks I meant the 1st gen, as the frame hasn’t changed in between. In the EU, it was released in 2014 (whereas in the US, it seems like it’s only been available since 2017), so you can find good deals on the 1st gen.
The little battery powers the lights and electronics. That is cheaper from a design point than adding a voltage converter to have the 300V main battery power everything on the bike.
I had a 2017 and LOVED It. Sold it spring of 24 for basically what I bought it for. It was such a great bike to improve skills and practice stuff but in the end the suspension and power were not enough for me.
You should consider doing a DIY how to series. The Varg really sets the top end of the market, but you can build a solid Dust/Freeride/Ultrabee competitor for a lot less and top end suspension/frame. If you source everything from Sia/Amorge/Aliexpress is cheap and straight forward. It cost me $4k to build a 2020 CRF 4.5 kwh, 28kw that weighs 220 lbs. Massively better than upgrading a free ride or ultrabee.
The Altis is 96v and absolutely crushes the ultra bee when testing side by side. Since the video compares the bee to the KTM, the Altis would be a better comparison. And it costs less than half of the KTM. Don’t get me wrong, I love KTM and the Beta Xtrainer, but the Altis has me impressed, especially since it’s only beaten by the Stark Varg. It’s also double the price also. But don’t worry, there will be improved bikes every 6 months and like phones, the 2yr old electric bikes will seem outdated.
own one since 2021, superperfect for my backjard. I still have a 1990;s style mx track behind my house - this bike fits the old slow small track - over the decades with modern 4 & 2 strokes all jumps and tracks got faster and bigger. I think these kind of bikes are a very good sulution or add to our 2 wheel love - it always comes up to the main part of use, Erzberg you need a 300 2 stroke, and for all other places I'd say it it's riders choice - when speaking for us non pro's , I just like all kind of bikes. From old CR/ KX 500's, XR600's to modern 450 's . And all new E-Cross like Stark Varg will add good to our sport.
Love this video! I gotta say. I have the ‘23 Freeride E-XC and I didn’t even know I was suppose to charge the little 12v battery. 65 hours on the bike and never charged that thing once. Maybe this was a later model update?
You made the Freeride look real good at TKO! And in regards to the battery, that's a good call and think you may be right! Ours is the original 2020 model and believe it may have been a later update. We've had to replace those 12v's so many times on our 2020 and we do charge the battery when it's in the bike.
@@ElectricCycleRider when you charge the powerpack IN THE BIKE the 12v gets charged as well. if you always charge the powerpack outside the bike, ofc you are running through 12v batteries fast 😂 (read the manual)
That should be a plus with mode 1 but having a beginner option has hurt bike overall as mode 3 the best. I love my 2023 but no one has which worries me plus bankruptcy.
in my view, this bike can't be compared to a the surron class. all the ktm's components (frame, swing arm, brakes, fork, etc...) are so much more solid that the surrons. Its a different class. Just "Real Enduro" Stuff. Tank vs Jeep
I couldn’t see myself getting one just based on how long the battery lasts stock ultra bee battery has lasted me up to 4 hours of ride time on single track with some juice to spare and that’s with the upgraded wheel set and I was in sport the whole time keeping up with my buddy’s on their 250s ripping 20-25 through clough state park single tracks. Other than than the range bike seems awesome for the free ride The only pressing things to upgrade on the ultra bee is pegs, rims and tires
I would like to know if the little battery can be bypassed with power from the light or some other Aux power. I found a few for sale new from the dealer for 5k. It's a good deal, but I don't know. The range is crap.
I own this bike (along a KTM 300 EXC 2T, Rieju MR300 2T) and I Love it. But I will move to the new Stark EX (legal) as soon as possible. Power rules. I love power and acceleration.
The new varg EX is probably the better pick if you have the money. The new Freeride E (3.rd Gen from 2025) also seems very interesting but it just cant keep up with the new electric enduros like ultra bee, varg, flux primo (hyped for flux production bike) Ive test ridden the E-XC a few times now but it just was too slow for open terrain or street riding in germany if you go from forest to forest or want to dual sport it for enduro and supermoto with just switching the rims. Also the range is still an issue especially for supermoto riding. When im on vacation with my EXC500 i just fill up at any upcoming gas station (about 2-4 times a day) with agressive street riding in the mountains. Preordered the Flux but the Stark is itching my fingers. The newest Freeride would only be interesting at a lower price (6-7k new) but even then just as a fun second bike and not as main one.
You must be doing something wrong with the 12v battery. If the key is on, it should be charging. I have something like 100 hours on mine, and it hasn’t been even a slight issue.
@@luca_dierks I suspect there are some year differences, but I have heated grips and a plug for heated vest for my bike, and I know it charges the 12v system when riding on my 2023
You didn’t even mention evident bankruptcy? That is what will affect value. I got my 2023 with 50 hours for 7500 cash. I am 6’1 and 190lbs and bike feels full size despite 7/8 size. Mode 3 insane fun. I crashed it hard a few months ago on street and literally no damage. I have never had to replace starting battery charging main battery in garage. None around San Diego, pros have stark vargs in east county. The kids ride surrons and the ultra bs. I am worried for Ktm dynasty.
Thanks for the update. For us that live in commifornia and need to ride the street to trails it is still not a relevant bike. too bad cause id get two.
The little battery needed to start an electric bike is one of the most ridiculous design choices that I have ever heard of. Literally, why?!?! On the upside, there's a new one around these parts for $5k which has me wondering....
I boughtI bought a new 2023 KTM freeride, because it was $6K, brand new! I was honestly pretty disappointed. The suspension and weight were great. The power was really disappointing. The range was really disappointing. The low voltage throttling of power was ridiculous. I very quickly stopped riding it, mainly because of the range (18 miles at best of trail riding). I keep it around because it is a great newbie dirt bike, that I hope to entice some friends who are interested it trying out dirt biking, to give a whirl. Otherwise, I'm keeping it around to replace the motor and battery to make it what it should have been from the factory - faster and better range.
In “hard” enduro slow technical driving my surron barely drains any battery its the fast 80kph driving like motocross or street riding that drains the battery quickly
Commenting while watching... I have a Freeride and RFN and the Freeride is so much better...the RFN is ridden more because of the light weight and the fact that when I ride the Freeride, I get yelled at and nobody bothers me when I'm on the smaller RFN... (Yeah, I ride MTB trails that used to be motorcycle single track...) You ever hear of a trickle charger/battery tender...? (Insert link to kid chanting bullshit...)
Unless if for a small woman or a slow kid, No, never was. Maybe the new one can be. Two heavy and would run of juice mid "raid", picking this bike over the x trainer was a testament to stupidity.
That's a good example why KTM is going broke now. 11 grand and you can't even ride the damn thing for an hour. Those kinds of decisions kill them along with the fact that there isn't enough innovation to make getting anew gas powered dirt bike every three years a rational decision. And combine that with the Chinese.. the 450 Kovee is a good example of a very capable bike that is a good value. And maybe buying out Husky and producing them isn't as lucrative as they thought it would be.
NOPE.. still can't see any advantage over my 2006 250 XC-W .. until gas is outlawed .. Im keeping it ... gassing up is SOOOO much easier to charging up and the cost of a second battery is years worth of 2 stroke oil and gas .. SO NO
Just picked one up for $6k out the door. Love it so far. Absolutely awesome bike for hard enduro. My only complaint is the lack of aftermarket support, but I’m quickly finding ways around it.
Do you think the KTM Freeride is Still Relevant?
I think its a good bike, and anyone would be lucky to own one. I wish more of the gas bike manufacturers would be making EV's. KTM however, isn't doing so well and may be going away, and fear of difficulty finding parts in the future.
No
I found a new in box 2023 for 5k....I really want to pull the trigger but afraid the battery has been dead for 2+ yrs
No, even I am from Austria. Riding a Surron Ultra, my son owns the light Bee, and we are dreaming of a Varg :-)
Yeah it’s a great bike. Fun as hell. Since ditching my gas bikes I might add a Varg to the garage or wait for the Honda, but I have no desire to get rid of my EXC
Back in the mid-80s, I raced a 500 - I absolutely loved it. Fast-forward 35 years and 35 kg, and I started riding again on this KTM. I absolutely loved it. The three power levels were perfect for relearning how to ride. It was also perfect because I was able to buy sessions at a place that is only 25km from the house. The small track is only 400m from medium-density housing.
Love to hear that! Electric seems to be getting a lot of seasoned riders back in the sport. Enjoy!
the small battery gets charged when you charge the big battery. But the big battery has to be left in the bike for it to do so. I ride E-XC's for 6 years now. It's still a fun solid bike, but I'll be changing for the start vary EX next year. I need more topspeed and power
What year is your Freeride?
@@ElectricCycleRider My first one was the 2017 model with the smallest battery. My second one was the 2019 model with the bigger battery. I have the 2nd one still.
Interesting to hear that... ours does not seem to charge in the bike but thanks for keeping us honest!
@@ElectricCycleRider Put a volt meter on it and when you start the bike the voltage should go up to about 14volts from say 12.6.The small battery charges when the bike is on. Otherwise the headlight would drain it in 30 minutes of riding. And when parked with the kill switch on the headlight will drain the battery
@@ElectricCycleRider 12v only charges when powerpack is charged in the bike
will you be receiving a new stark varg enduro soon? curious about the review and price
Yes, we'll be getting one from Stark as soon as the fleet is here. 👍
I am hoping that the Dust Moto will fill size of the Freeride with better suspension and longer range!
You’ve just added another option to my list! Now I’m considering these: a modified UB for 9k€, a Varg-EX for 13k€, or a used Freeride for ~4k€ plus the cost of a custom-built battery. I’m curious why no one has considered the last option yet. Unlike dirt-bike retrofits, modifying an existing Freeride would allow it to remain in the road-legal category.
used freeride 2nd gen is more like €5-6k
@@luca_dierks I meant the 1st gen, as the frame hasn’t changed in between. In the EU, it was released in 2014 (whereas in the US, it seems like it’s only been available since 2017), so you can find good deals on the 1st gen.
Needing a battery to start a battery powered bike is the most KTM ridiculous flaw
The little battery powers the lights and electronics. That is cheaper from a design point than adding a voltage converter to have the 300V main battery power everything on the bike.
@ I suppose for convenience I’d opt for the transformer
I had a 2017 and LOVED It. Sold it spring of 24 for basically what I bought it for. It was such a great bike to improve skills and practice stuff but in the end the suspension and power were not enough for me.
What after market batteries are available now? Or have to get one made? What range can you get with a new battery made? Or limited by space?
You should consider doing a DIY how to series. The Varg really sets the top end of the market, but you can build a solid Dust/Freeride/Ultrabee competitor for a lot less and top end suspension/frame. If you source everything from Sia/Amorge/Aliexpress is cheap and straight forward. It cost me $4k to build a 2020 CRF 4.5 kwh, 28kw that weighs 220 lbs. Massively better than upgrading a free ride or ultrabee.
Great call! We've actually got a couple cool projects that have been in the works for some months now - will start posting about those very soon.
For charging on 120 v you need to get a step up step down transformer for charging the work great and you can purchase one for around $100.00
The new Alta Sigma is an incredible bike. Would get it hands down over the Freeride
They aren’t in the same class
The Altis is 96v and absolutely crushes the ultra bee when testing side by side. Since the video compares the bee to the KTM, the Altis would be a better comparison. And it costs less than half of the KTM. Don’t get me wrong, I love KTM and the Beta Xtrainer, but the Altis has me impressed, especially since it’s only beaten by the Stark Varg. It’s also double the price also.
But don’t worry, there will be improved bikes every 6 months and like phones, the 2yr old electric bikes will seem outdated.
@@travislinton7258 the UB is better than the Altis in every way except for power, which can be upgraded. They aren’t even in the same class anyways.
own one since 2021, superperfect for my backjard. I still have a 1990;s style mx track behind my house - this bike fits the old slow small track - over the decades with modern 4 & 2 strokes all jumps and tracks got faster and bigger. I think these kind of bikes are a very good sulution or add to our 2 wheel love - it always comes up to the main part of use, Erzberg you need a 300 2 stroke, and for all other places I'd say it it's riders choice - when speaking for us non pro's , I just like all kind of bikes. From old CR/ KX 500's, XR600's to modern 450 's . And all new E-Cross like Stark Varg will add good to our sport.
Love this video! I gotta say. I have the ‘23 Freeride E-XC and I didn’t even know I was suppose to charge the little 12v battery. 65 hours on the bike and never charged that thing once. Maybe this was a later model update?
You made the Freeride look real good at TKO! And in regards to the battery, that's a good call and think you may be right! Ours is the original 2020 model and believe it may have been a later update. We've had to replace those 12v's so many times on our 2020 and we do charge the battery when it's in the bike.
Can't the 12 volt battery be charged from the headlight circuit ?
@@ElectricCycleRider when you charge the powerpack IN THE BIKE the 12v gets charged as well. if you always charge the powerpack outside the bike, ofc you are running through 12v batteries fast 😂 (read the manual)
Still lovin mine!
🤘
I’ve had mine since 2017 and is super fun to ride around my yard and surrounding area
I miss her so much! KATYYYYY!! I WAS WRONG!
Remember the features and build quality of the KTM are Stellar the surronn has a chintzy cogged rubber belt!
I had mine for a year never any issues with the little battery was told not to leave the key on
What about the new version?
We'll be picking one up from KTM as soon as it arrives in the US... should be January!
@ look forward to your review 🔥
@@ElectricCycleRiderany insight on price on the new one?
I like this bike. the lower seat height makes it more manageable when the train is difficult.
Good thing about the KTM FREERIDE everybody can Ride. Bad thing is everybody can Ride.. we enjoy ours
That should be a plus with mode 1 but having a beginner option has hurt bike overall as mode 3 the best. I love my 2023 but no one has which worries me plus bankruptcy.
in my view, this bike can't be compared to a the surron class.
all the ktm's components (frame, swing arm, brakes, fork, etc...) are so much more solid that the surrons. Its a different class. Just "Real Enduro" Stuff.
Tank vs Jeep
I couldn’t see myself getting one just based on how long the battery lasts stock ultra bee battery has lasted me up to 4 hours of ride time on single track with some juice to spare and that’s with the upgraded wheel set and I was in sport the whole time keeping up with my buddy’s on their 250s ripping 20-25 through clough state park single tracks. Other than than the range bike seems awesome for the free ride
The only pressing things to upgrade on the ultra bee is pegs, rims and tires
I would like to know if the little battery can be bypassed with power from the light or some other Aux power. I found a few for sale new from the dealer for 5k. It's a good deal, but I don't know. The range is crap.
For the prices you can get these (new or used) it's tough to beat this bike.
I own this bike (along a KTM 300 EXC 2T, Rieju MR300 2T) and I Love it. But I will move to the new Stark EX (legal) as soon as possible. Power rules. I love power and acceleration.
I enjoy my Arctic leopard. I feel I’m the only one who lucked out and didn’t have problems
I have a Freeride 250R and it’s an awesome bike, I don’t know about the electric versions
The new varg EX is probably the better pick if you have the money. The new Freeride E (3.rd Gen from 2025) also seems very interesting but it just cant keep up with the new electric enduros like ultra bee, varg, flux primo (hyped for flux production bike)
Ive test ridden the E-XC a few times now but it just was too slow for open terrain or street riding in germany if you go from forest to forest or want to dual sport it for enduro and supermoto with just switching the rims. Also the range is still an issue especially for supermoto riding. When im on vacation with my EXC500 i just fill up at any upcoming gas station (about 2-4 times a day) with agressive street riding in the mountains.
Preordered the Flux but the Stark is itching my fingers.
The newest Freeride would only be interesting at a lower price (6-7k new) but even then just as a fun second bike and not as main one.
You must be doing something wrong with the 12v battery. If the key is on, it should be charging. I have something like 100 hours on mine, and it hasn’t been even a slight issue.
12v only charges when powerpack is charged IN THE BIKE. if the powerpack is removed for charging you will never charge the 12v
@@luca_dierks I suspect there are some year differences, but I have heated grips and a plug for heated vest for my bike, and I know it charges the 12v system when riding on my 2023
Do you feel E bikes need a clutch? Would there be Any benefit for log crossings and rocks?
You didn’t even mention evident bankruptcy? That is what will affect value. I got my 2023 with 50 hours for 7500 cash. I am 6’1 and 190lbs and bike feels full size despite 7/8 size. Mode 3 insane fun. I crashed it hard a few months ago on street and literally no damage. I have never had to replace starting battery charging main battery in garage. None around San Diego, pros have stark vargs in east county. The kids ride surrons and the ultra bs. I am worried for Ktm dynasty.
When the Stark Varg EX is due for about the same price, hell nahh. KTM could get out of administration if they make something on par with the Varg 💯
Thanks for the update. For us that live in commifornia and need to ride the street to trails it is still not a relevant bike. too bad cause id get two.
Looked like a review of the new model but I guess you are talking about the old 2021 model. Lets see how they have improved with the new.
We'll have a new one to test soon 👍
The little battery needed to start an electric bike is one of the most ridiculous design choices that I have ever heard of. Literally, why?!?!
On the upside, there's a new one around these parts for $5k which has me wondering....
I boughtI bought a new 2023 KTM freeride, because it was $6K, brand new! I was honestly pretty disappointed. The suspension and weight were great. The power was really disappointing. The range was really disappointing. The low voltage throttling of power was ridiculous. I very quickly stopped riding it, mainly because of the range (18 miles at best of trail riding). I keep it around because it is a great newbie dirt bike, that I hope to entice some friends who are interested it trying out dirt biking, to give a whirl. Otherwise, I'm keeping it around to replace the motor and battery to make it what it should have been from the factory - faster and better range.
Seriously thinking about buying the YZ-EMX conversion kit and installing it into this frame.
Dang. Stark really has cornered the market now.
5:25 is definatly a deal breaker
I’d like one just for stealth rips here in the woods near my house, uk 🇬🇧.
Imho it should have been in the mid size group. It’s what r-lbs more? Not that much compared to the total rider and bike weight.
In “hard” enduro slow technical driving my surron barely drains any battery its the fast 80kph driving like motocross or street riding that drains the battery quickly
Just charge the small battery from the headlight
Commenting while watching...
I have a Freeride and RFN and the Freeride is so much better...the RFN is ridden more because of the light weight and the fact that when I ride the Freeride, I get yelled at and nobody bothers me when I'm on the smaller RFN... (Yeah, I ride MTB trails that used to be motorcycle single track...)
You ever hear of a trickle charger/battery tender...? (Insert link to kid chanting bullshit...)
I had one in 2016 on a deal £6k new road legal Bargain. Brilliant bike
2025 Freeride just got ANNOUNCED
Didn't it come out in 2015?
It came out in 2014 in Europe and 2017 in the US.
Unless if for a small woman or a slow kid, No, never was. Maybe the new one can be.
Two heavy and would run of juice mid "raid", picking this bike over the x trainer was a testament to stupidity.
That's a good example why KTM is going broke now. 11 grand and you can't even ride the damn thing for an hour. Those kinds of decisions kill them along with the fact that there isn't enough innovation to make getting anew gas powered dirt bike every three years a rational decision. And combine that with the Chinese.. the 450 Kovee is a good example of a very capable bike that is a good value. And maybe buying out Husky and producing them isn't as lucrative as they thought it would be.
No, buy the the new one or a stark varg ex
New one takes forever to charge
@@bendiesel4446 you can have a faster charger next year. also I rather have more battery then less.
NOPE.. still can't see any advantage over my 2006 250 XC-W .. until gas is outlawed .. Im keeping it ... gassing up is SOOOO much easier to charging up and the cost of a second battery is years worth of 2 stroke oil and gas .. SO NO
Just picked one up for $6k out the door. Love it so far. Absolutely awesome bike for hard enduro. My only complaint is the lack of aftermarket support, but I’m quickly finding ways around it.
How do you get the front end up? These have traction control and I can't get the front end off the ground because of that
I’ve got a fresh ix09 on the rear, and I preload the forks a bit before blipping the throttle
1st gen was 2014
First ones available in the US was the pilot program in 2017 - but yes, it was the same bike that came out in previous years in Europe.
Not even watched it and I know it’s not
KTM, reliable?😅😅😅
NOT….never was………
Was it ever???
😂
Ouch!! 😆
@ElectricCycleRider xD
But i like the stark very much, since i rode one at my local track. If i see a good deal... Maybe.. xD
Nope
When was it ever relevant???
supa early
The freeride was awesome b4 they went electric
whats so bad about electric
@@ezuoop🪫🔌😵