Great Video John!! I agree with everything you’ve said. I’m loving both of mine and so are many of my Gas Motocross and Enduro buddies on my backyard track. Did you have any issues with the little brake light sensors up under the brake levers? Three out of four of mine have S**t the bed. Ktm can’t seem to source replacements. Thanks. Larry
I reserved a stark varg. I wondered about the instant hit without a clutch and thought I could modulate the power with the rear brake. Glad to hear you are doing that. I opted for the left hand brake lever to do just that.
The Varg power curve will be adjustable in the map unlike the Freeride. The Freeride gives you the three presets. Mode 2 has no hit. But yes, drag the brake for a similar affect as a clutch.
Awesome review. The best value reviews are aways long term ownership when the person isn't beholden to the company in any way. I just got a Surron Ultra Bee and was surprised by the range. I did a 35km trail ride and still had 30% battery left...but like you stated, I am not an aggressive rider. I am mostly doing twisty single track and my average speed was around 25 Km/h with some long stretches of technical stuff going closer to 10 Km/h. I took it down some dirt roads to do a distance test and on sport mode, at 80km/h (pinned) I got about 25 km and it was down to 10%. I imagine I wouldn't get much time at all on a MX track before I was out of juice. The Ultra Bee has a 74V/55aHr battery with a 12.5V engine and weighs ~190 pounds/88 Kg.
👍 yeah, it's very subject to how much you twist it. Doesn't take too long before you have an idea of where and what the limits are. It's no different than anything else, just a point that haters like to base their attack around since they have little else 😆 Have fun. Thanks for watching/commenting 🤙
I'm an m5b guy too. Best tire out there. Sidewalls are so stiff you can run them low, and it ends up getting more traction than gummies in most situations,,, at least in the desert. Then they hook up like mad in fluff and loose stuff.
Awesome John! Thanks for this video! I just got a 2022 today with 58 miles on it!! Wondering, what rear number plates you were using? Just regular EXC? Thank you brother!
Hello. I have 2 KTM freerides, the Old one from 2015 and the 2020… nerver had a problem, have seen all your freeride videos abouth the freeride, also made a lot of modes after seen your videos . Thanks fra a freeride E guy from Denmark 👍
thx for the vid bro!! I'm buying my first 2023 Freeride E-XC this weekend👍question: where do I get a rear foot pedal brake kit? Im afraid I might go into muscle memory mode and grab a handful of clutch and fly over the bars or dab the rear brake come off the peg so to be safe Ill want to do that upgrade asap😁
There is no “kit”, you have to get the individual parts. The 23 has different brakes than mine so I don’t have all the parts information for you. The pedal is from a Gas Freeride. Contact Andy @ Dirt First Racing. He’ll probably have the numbers for the new bike or maybe takeoff parts from one of his bikes that you can buy. You can tell him I sent you. Good luck and have a blast! They are super fun and hassle free to ride.
John, I’ve watched all of your videos and actually purchased my first 2022 because of your videos. I’ve now purchased a second 2022 since I really love the bike. My local dealer says he has not heard anything about them being discontinued. Are you completely sure they are being discontinued in current form? I’ve also have a battery on order which seems near impossible to ever receive since they have been back ordered without an expected delivery date forever.
Well I’ve heard it from two sources (one was Stark CEO), but not directly from KTM. I haven’t read everything. The Freeride E LV is slated for 2023 in company literature though. I can’t imagine they would keep both bikes. I believe I was incorrect in this video about the power reduction of the new bike (which I covered in other comments here). I think I misread the literature and now believe it to be more or less the same powerplant (or spec at least), but with a 5.5kwh battery, which would probably add weight. They may have shed that somewhere else. Doesn’t seem likely it’ll weigh the same or lighter though, as I don’t believe battery tech has come that far since the last update. I could be wrong. I suspect your battery is just supply chain/manufacturing problems. I have a couple videos that I never released (probably should). I blew my water pump up on a rock in Dec/21. It’s on backorder until June/22. I researched, sourced one myself and made some videos about it, because there was no way I wasn’t going to ride it for 6 months. This new globalist authoritarian world we’re living in has killed manufacturing. Our supreme leaders would rather we stayed indoors, watch propaganda and grip our chairs in fear instead of having fun with our family & friends. That way they can earn our vote to save us from it! There’s a new boogeyman every day🖕 Some people get regretful when they buy something and then find out about new models. That’s a terrible way to live though, because if you wait for every new model… you will wait forever! As long as you enjoy your purchase and it meets your needs, it was money well spent! I have a blast on the little Freeride! I sometimes wish I had the new bodied 690, but I got a fair deal on mine and it does everything I need. So maybe someday when I can afford it I’ll get the latest gen, but reality is… I really don’t need it and I enjoy riding the one I have.
@@JohnHowerton137. Thanks John, I agree with everything you said and I enjoy your videos. You are a straight shooter which is appreciated. I initially struggled with the purchase of the Freeride e. I had just purchased a 2022 Husqvarna TE 300i. I have a garage full of bikes that range back to 70’s CZs and Maicos. I also have a 2017 KTM 690 and it serves my needs as well. Anyway and to shorten my ramble, your videos pushed me over the edge to purchase the Freeride e. Honestly, I’ve never had so much fun on a bike. My friend who has far more bikes than me (he has at least 250+) and is a die hard four stroke guy, likes the Freeride as well. As you can tell, I don’t mind owning bikes that aren’t the latest but are still remarkably fun to ride. Battery technology will undoubtedly continue to improve and it’s likely that solid state batteries will replace our current technology. It’s also possible that the Freeride e might not fit the exact model the battery consortium between KTM, Honda and other manufacturers have agreed to last year. Regarding current Freeride battery technology, someone will rebuild batteries once it becomes necessary. Considering how overpriced the current Freeride batteries are today I look forward to the future when it will likely cost a fraction of the amount to rebuild them. Please post your other videos especially regarding the water pump. I know it’s a lot of work but it would be greatly appreciated.
I'd love to see those collections 🥰 I'm sure I've had plenty of other single funnest days on other bikes, but the Freeride is probably the most fun I've had in general over all rides on a bike. I rather enjoy the noiseless riding. Releases my stress about pissing people off! After dealing with people trying to control your life all day, every day, I just want to be left alone when I ride! There's people already out there cracking Alta batteries open, so I have no doubt in 5 years or so there will be people providing "battery services." I doubt the Freeride batteries are very complicated. No doubt when E is more mainstream, there will be some solid state cells of some other cell tech that could be put into that battery case without too much trouble.
Love my Freeride, I didn't realize KTM was going to discontinue it. Surprised it took me two years to get one and bunch were ordered and delivered. Seemed to sell great! I was going to sell mine when my Varg is delivered and keep my Segway X-260 and the Varg but if they discontinue I think I will keep it. BTW street legal is awesome mine is. Figured I can't fly under the Radar like the Segway, so the Freeride is registered and insured. Great video are you still charging the Freeride off your Home Solar System making it truly a Free Ride!
Yep, outside of buying tires, it’s cheap to operate. I was hoping for a few more updates myself as the platform is a neat size. They really weren’t selling until I started making videos, dealer had lots and I got mine and my buddy’s easily. 1 million Freeride YT views later… he’d sold out, called me and told me he ordered twice as many and they were pre-sold 🤣 I get lots of emails and some comments saying I pushed people off the fence 😊 That makes me happy, because I know how much fun I’ve had on it with more to come! The new one looks kind of neat, but I have little interest in it at 12HP. Maybe that would be fun in a city, but not what I’m looking for. I’m stoked for the Stark. I’ll program smooth map at about 35HP and ride the damn wheels off it!
@@JohnHowerton137 yeah 80hp on the Varg is going to be insane. I just couldn't help myself I had to get the 80hp version. But you're right I trail ride the Freeride so I mostly use Mode 2. I am hoping to get 4 hours continuous ride time out of the Varg on a power mode that is fun and safe. I am not sure how much continuous ride time I do with the gas bikes but the milage is usually around 55 miles for a full day of Colorado Single track. I doubt the Varg could pull that off it would need some alien technology! 👽 its exciting times in the off road arena. Yamaha, Kawasaki and Honda are dipping their toes in the electrics heard Beta is too hope so.
@@lboughto my guess is the Varg in a map similar to the Freeride Mode 3 will get about 40 miles. I ordered the 60HP because I never see myself using anything close to that except for shits and giggles (i'm sure it would be fun to rip a big hill climb). With twice the torque of a 450, even at half power it'll pull harder than I like to hold onto. Mode 4 on the Freeride is all I ask for 🤣
@@JohnHowerton137 I completely agree 80hp is for the giggle factor. I rarely even put the Freeride in Mode 3. 40 miles in a reasonable power mode would be okay with me. I have an oversized tank on my Beta 300RR/RE I don't expect the Electric platforms to match the range.
The front tyre you're running sounds similar to the Dunlop 606 I used to run on my KTM gasser. They had a stiff carcass with medium sticky coumpound on the luges. The only problem was they wore out so quick.
Awesome video man, I think the discreetness of it is a really good selling point. Ripping around the neighborhood without people calling he cops because someone hears a mx bike 😂 I'd probably do allot more riding. We ride mostly trails, woods and some enduro type stuff and normally out for around 3-4 hours. I recon this should do the job. Think the longest trip was around 95km. On my CRF250R with a 7L tank it made it back with still some juice left, wonder how this would do. (It was a chilled ride mostly) I guess you need the charger unit to charge it, not able to pop it into a power grid somewhere for a top up? Think this could be a really fun bike... 🤔
Off-road the furthest I’ve gone is 40km. That’s about the limit. When you know the limit… it’s not a problem. Just turn around when you’re half way out. Yes, you need the specific charger and it’s a 240v plug. I charge off my dryer outlet. On high setting it’s about 1min per 1%. A generator can be used if it has 240v and enough output… say if you were camping. It’s a blast. I have a pile of videos you can watch and see about every angle of the bike and all the pros and cons of owning it. It has limitations, but fun isn’t one of them 😆 Great to teach wife, kids and friends on. Mode 1 about anyone can ride it without fear (except falling over part).
@@JohnHowerton137 Thanks for the reply man, much appreciated! I hear you on the limitations. One gets around it yeah. I see, thanks for that. It looks like a really fun bike yeah. The main thing is that you can ride it anywhere, that's what is really cool about it for me. I checked out a few already 😉 still plenty to go! 😅 new sub 👍 Thanks dude
@@DirtbikesNDirtRoads and when you can ride it anywhere… that means you don’t have to go far 😉 Keep a gas bike around for the long exploring days with buddies. Their bikes collect dust all week while you buzz around wherever 😋
I’ve been wondering a lot about the range/time. I was always thinking my tank last a while it is more like 3 gallon tank on the 2 stroke I’m pretty sure, and I do short rides rarely do any long or hard riding. But you explaining how a normal 2 stroke last about 18 miles and this lasts 18 miles was something I was assuming would be the case with comparing the bikes. Thanks for the review.
Yeah, there are a lot of factors, but it doesn't suck as much as most people think. I've never worried about it, just kept the limitation in mind. It's like going to a fancy restaurant... you don't go to get full, you go for a different kind or better dining experience. If you went thinking you'd get full, well you'd be a moron. If you bought an ebike expecting long range adventures, well then maybe go get the head checked 🤣 A normal single-track ride is likely 25 mile range. You can expect hours of fun trail riding. Throw in some faster trails and it's about 18, hammer the throttle non-stop in motocross and its like 10-11. If you ride a 2-stroke 125-250 it's roughly 1.5 gal. I never rode 85's, but I'd suspect it's about the same as one of those. They're a hoot to ride, and it's so much fun to not feel like a criminal every time you want to ride.
This is incredibly helpful - thank you! Considering buying one, but not sure about my 6' 2" 215lbs frame... Your characterization of the bike as "3/4" has me a little nervous. I can roll up to Bozeman and sit on one, but would love your opinion.
The friend I ride with all the time is 6'2" 200. He loves it. I'm currently 6' 185. Doesn't feel small at all. It doesn't feel like sitting on a 85 or anything.
It really doesn’t work that way. Every user will have different mileage. It depends on how much you turn the throttle. It’s about like having 1.4 gals of gas in a 2-stroke 250cc. Avg is about 17-22 miles for me, but I’ve had as low as 10 miles on the track and as high as 30 miles on the street.
It’s now 2 years after you made this video. Curious if you have the stark varg yet. I am considering a 2023 freeride (price reduced…soon to be discontinued?), but wonder if I should hold out a bit since there are other options looming. My main focus is stealth property fun and single track trail riding. Thanks!!
No Varg, still have freeride. I was basically never going to get to ride the Varg because all my friends are dual sport and most the riding areas require it. The nicest thing about the KTM is the fact that it is a KTM. You know where to find parts and there is quite a few other accessories and parts that fit from the 85 and the gas Freerides.
Awesome thanks for the reply. Sorry one more question. How has battery degradation been having owned it for a few years? Thanks again for the kind replies!
@@milesholland6826 sorry, UA-cam has about the crappiest comment system I’ve ever seen in my like as far as notifications go. The answer is Zero. My has been sitting fully charged (a no-no for storage) in a barn for 356 days since I broke my leg. We took it out yesterday and it got 30 miles on the charge. The furthest it’s ever gone with any rider and it still didn’t hit limp mode. So I have to say zero 🤷🏼♂️
Hi. Does it feel twitchy? You mentioned it has steeper steering angle than normal enduro bikes. Can it compete in fast enduros head to head with big bikes? I have Beta Xtrainer which has steeper steering angle and the bike is scary twitchy at higher speeds. So this is my big worry and question here. Thanks.
I can't even think of a time it's gotten twitchy. It's rock solid. That said, it doesn't really reach twitchy speeds. 42 mph is on the outer limits of it's useable speed. That's not the fastest it goes, but that's the top end of anything that you don't have to wait for. So while it is excellent in tight single track, any XC type race with speeds that often hit over those speeds... it'll get smoked. The battery life will be short too. Tight flowing singletrack it would be tough to beat. Roughly anything up to 3rd gear on a petrol bike. Beyond that, it's out of its wheelhouse. 45-60ish mins and 15-18 miles for the battery in racier XC type conditions. So sub-45mph conditions with reasonable flow and 30mins motos are the conditions I'd personally be confident racing it in. In those parameters, it would be tough to beat.
I haven't yet because the sales tax and fees was going to be like $900 and I've been too broke since the video because the Gov double screwed me on my taxes this year. Plus my cost of living skyrocketed and all my investments evaporated, so play money is gone too 🤷♂️ Money is the only reason. It's only 6-7 months away from my Varg arriving, so realistically I probably won't. I need to plan to pay for that bike.
Is it worth $6600? I already put a down payment on, but still on the fence. I ride an eride pro ss in the trails and love it. I’ve never rode a dirt bike in my life, and riding my eride pro ss in mililani trails got me curious in wanting to get a dirt bike. The free ride is on sale right now for 6600, and I’m just wondering if it’s worth buying. I have a tendency to put my feet down on certain steep hills with all sorts of rocks and obstacles going up on my eride so I can balance and help my self up if I lose traction. With the free ride, I tip toe on flat ground. Also, I don’t have a 220 plug. And for range, I’m not too sure how far the trails are, but I don’t want to get stuck in the trails. All those considered, would it be worth it for me to buy the free ride or an ultra bee (surrouns version of the free ride)
@@OahuNative well, I have nearly $13k into mine and never regretted it, so I'd take it half price 🤣 25 miles is a LONG way in nasty trails. It'll probably outlast you. It will feel top heavy for a few rides if you have experience on other bikes, but that feeling goes away.
@@JohnHowerton137 thanks for the quick reply. so I guess that’s a yes? And over the ultra bee? I swear the trails feel longer than 25 miles, that’s including the ride back to the truck 🤔 will it still get 25 miles with steep hills with obstacles to climb like rocks roots, etc? How do you go about charging it safely if I don’t have a 220 outlet?
@OahuNative honestly, I can’t give you that answer. Everyone rides differently. I can pretty confidently tell you 20. It’s just like a big V8 if you’re hammering on the throttle (hill climbs) it gets 6mpg, if you’re cruising hwy at 50mph (easy slow single track) you get 20 mpg. The eBikes are like that. They dont use battery when off the throttle, but they chew through it when you’re on it hard. I get like 10-11 miles when I ride motocross style, 16-18 mixed XC, and 20-25 rocky trails, single track, jungle stuff. Riding with friends I get closer to the 25, by myself closer to the 16 because I’m not putting around as much 🤣 Voltage converter. See my last short. I can’t tell you it’s better or worse than the equivalent SurRon because I haven’t ridden them. That said…. A SurRon is a SurRon and a KTM is a KTM. I know which one I’m choosing. That said, SurRon is pretty separated from it’s Chinese competition… I’m just not there with it. I feel like the objective reviewers base the SunRon products on potential (Ie.. what it could be). I am on board with the Electric Motion bikes. I flew to Ohau to ride John’s a few years ago. They are great trail bikes, but I knew I’d want to jump the crap out of whatever I got 🤣
@@JohnHowerton137 I see. My eride pro ss (similar to the surron but better, lol) can jump a lot of stuff, lol. It’s pretty quick and have a lot of torque. Sport mode it can go 60mph. I love that bike and it can go anywhere I want to and have all the power in need and some, plus long battery range. The ktm piqued my interest when I found out it was half off. Checked it out at the dealer, loved the aesthetics. When I sat on it to see how it feels, I was tip toeing. I’m wondering if that would be a problem as I never rode a dirt bike before. When I ride trails with my eride pro ss, certain hills with rocks and roots in it, I have a tendency to put my feet down for balance, or if I’m going to bail, as I can reach the ground. Im wondering if that will be a problem for me if I were to do the same thing on the ktm. Im not that experienced in riding trails. Last weekend, was my fourth time going, but I feel confident on my eride pro ss, because I feel In control. If I can barely touch the ground with the ktm, I won’t feel in control and I’m wondering if I’ll be laying the bike a lot🤦🏽♂️ As for the charging, do you know if it’s safe to charge it from the dryer? I’ve read on forums that there’s an adapter that can go into the dryer plug. But if I’m not mistaken, isn’t that 240 volts? Opposed to the 220v required for the charger? I ordered the adapter the day I put the down payment on the ktm, in the event I buy the bike, at least I’ll be able to charge it. But I’m. Not too sure if it will be safe to use that adapter on the dryer outlet. As the voltages are different
@@OahuNative everything about it is more bike. The eride is just an overweight mountain bike. You'll use both unless you plan on selling the eride. The dryer 240 is the same thing. Mine has mostly been charged off my dryer plug with an adapter my friend and I made. I have videos for all this stuff. Get into my Freeride playlists and binge watch for a while 😋🤣
Hello, I just bought a 2022 ktm free ride and the bike keeps lossing power (like it’s restricted) when I ride it hard. I have to shut off the bike to reset it. Have you had this problem?
Sounds like it thinks it’s overheating. Take it to the dealer. You could do other things like see if it has coolant in it or feel the battery (for heat) when it goes into that limp mode.
Most states they can be… and there’s some online services to register them in the PITA states like mine. They’re less desirable now that the Varg pre-orders aren’t far away from shipping.
Well you can still enjoy it without me 😉 and that's probably 10-11 months away anyway. I almost never want to sell bikes, but thats tough when NOT independently wealthy. My 250F, which I love riding and have wanted since 2004, is on the chopping block. Makes me sick to my stomach, but life is about sacrifice. I'm looking to get another street legal enduro due to limited riding access around here 😞
@@JohnHowerton137 just wait half a year, this bike will go up in price, in europe we will not have 2023 models this year because of war. So all bikes like ktm, husky, gas gas will go big time in price ;) for how much you want to sell it by the way?
Yeah I've looked around. Action Cams aren't very compatible with the wireless stuff. Keep the production quality pretty low around here. Not only to I not have the time or places for good recording, I do it all solo with budget cameras. I've just had to accept that or the videos never get made. If I plan stuff out, I get called into work, tradewinds start, or it rains. Just can't prepare for it all. Last weekend I carried carried 20lbs of camera crap on my back the whole excursion and never even got a shot. Maybe 1 in 8 videos I intend to make actually get recoded or uploaded. All the subpar footage for two videos last week were lost after hours of editing. I just don't have the time and no help. There is like a grand total of 5min of clips on this channel that my hand wasn't operating the camera. It's an act of God to even get somebody to take a phone clip for me or even get them out to ride. I'm considering a move, but it's a huge financial commitment.
A lot stronger off the bottom in general in Mode 3 (because of the torque). Mode 2 is probably similar. No clutch to bang, so it's kind of hard to explain. Signs off like you're transmission is a 4 speed. About 41mph is all you get for usable speed.
@@kineticfix there is a lot of things that just make it feel so different. Like ZERO vibration. Never had one person disappointed in the power (even a factory pro). I wouldn't mind a little more, but I want a little more on a 125 too... that's why I bought a 200. The top speed is unimpressive, but it wasn't designed for top speed. It's plenty fast enough for single track stuff and tight spaces. Use it within it's niche and it's wicked fun!
60, and I'll ride it around 30-40 most of the time. No reason for the 80, and if I did want it, it can be unlocked later with a firmware update. Most the media guys rode the 60 around 90% or less in all the recent videos. With all the torque, it's almost unusable any more than that. I think Sebastian is the only guy that's probably ridden one in berserker mode 🤣
Sucks the are discontinuing this bike. I was thinking about getting one. I wanted one because it was small and level 1 was weak. Thought it would help keep me out of trouble (can't seem to keep myself from doing dumb stuff). Looked at the Varg and now I can't wait until you get one. 85hp I mean that's crazy.
Yeah it does. I think with a some redesigned plastic, and maybe another battery and brake update, they could still sell a bunch of them. The Freeride platform across the board is a great platform. The brand doesn't really have a play bike, so it has a nice little niche. At 12HP and $10k+ price tag, I don't see the Freeride LV being a slam dunk or even imported into this market. I still wouldn't discourage you from getting one. With so few ebikes on the market that have kind any power, I see these bikes still having demand. The Alta sells just a well as it did when it was new... they weren't discontinued, the company folded!
@Mark get one before they discontinue it. I certainly regretted missing out on the Alta MX-REDSHIFT. They still sell for crazy money when you can find them. The KTM is high quality and so much fun to ride. The torque is unreal and addictive. Smiles per Miles can't be beat!
In most states yes. Funny enough I live in a blue state and it can't... unless I register it in a red state and ride with out of state plate. Got to love the "green" virtue signaling 🤣
Not in real life, but I was not at all impressed from what I've seen in videos. I have ridden the X model, but I never uploaded the video. It's a neat little single track mountain bike like rig.
My local dealer has a demo Storm bike but the battery ships separately and the battery hasn't arrived yet. I want to check out reverse. Sounds silly but I bet its awesome. These bikes are really heavy and the kinds of trails we ride reverse will be great for positing the bike for the best obstical attacks. Seems like I am alwsys pulling my bike backwards and wearing myself out.
@@JohnHowerton137 The storm is crazy, its like 315 pounds though. Idk about you but that seems a lot for a 22KwH motor. Also cant trust crap from china. Had to sell my light surron because of the reliability.
@@happygnomev2576 yeah, I wasn't impressed. Looks like a giant turd to me. When companies don't ride and just want a cheap product to market, you end up with products like that Stormbee. When the company rides and wants to give the market what it actually desires, you get a product like the Stark.
Nobody actually gives a shit about that. Even the people who pretend to care. If they actually cared they would be pro pipeline and nuclear. It's all virtue signaling and gov control (or stupidity). Everyone knows it except for their sheep followers. That said, solar actually works well here. Sun blazes hot every day. Not so much in Germany 🤣
@@JohnHowerton137 you're smart. All these batteries are way more toxic to the environment than combustion engine car. Most of it will end up in landfill. Just look at how they bury wind turbines to get rid of them.
@@jamesfranko5098 yeah it’s virtue signaling BS. I just ride them because they are fun as hell, NOBODY bitches and it basically costs nothing because of the solar on the roof with the sun blazing every day. The bonus is NO AIR FILTERS or oil changes. You can bury the bike in the biggest duff berm you’ve ever seen until it’s out of juice and not give two shits because it’ll never suck dirt into the motor 😁
This bike no, because I like the structure the tube adds to the tire. I feel like it helps reduce sidewall roll when cornering. I ran it both ends of my 350EXC for about 8 months until I was left twice riding with rock punctured carcasses in the front tires and switched to a nitromousse. I had a hard low-profile MX tire on the bike for a long time to combat sidewall roll. The drawback is, the ground here is so hard, it gave a lot of sharp feedback to the rider. Felt like the tire was solid rubber 🤣 Probably enhanced by my stiff suspension. It's taken me a long time to even like 18" wheels in general (not just this bike). I might finally be warming up to them as I'm seeking a little more comfort with age. Haha!
Hey john! Theres a used freeride for sale near me but i don't know how to read the hour meter on the trip computer. It says '78 7' Does it have 78 kilometres or 787?! Kinda embarrassing but i cant figure it out and the dumbass seller says it has 55 kilometres. Please help!
You should be able to toggle through the menu with the + button and see all kinds of things. I changed all the menus in mine, but if I had to guess, 78.7km with that low of miles, the thing prob still has tits on the tires. 787km they'd have decent amount of wear.
Not even close. The rider can hear it, and the camera picks up the sound, but outside of that it's pretty silent. To everyone else it's basically just chain and tire noise. Which is how you can gauge traction. It can be heard 150ft away wide open, but the ear doesn't pick it up or recognize it as a motorcycle. Completely unoffensive to non-riders, only offensive to gas riders online who've never seen one.
@@JohnHowerton137 That electric gear mesh sound is way louder than the off pipe/low rev noise emitted from the TE150I, like I'm so confident of it that we should meet up with a sound meter and do some testing. On multiple occasions I've snuck up on big game and hikers with my 22 TE150I. And being that the TE would outpace the battery powered KTM off pipe, I see it as a fair comparison. The e KTM sounds just like the electric conversion motors that are available now like the QS138 motor, and I am confident the QS138 is better than what KTM is using. These e-bike dirtbike things make significant noise it's just a different, it's a whining sound similar to a miter saw spooling up. I have heard it in person, and hear it in video no matter how much editing is done, as long as the audio isn't completely removed.. I've been slowly gathering parts to convert my 12 kx450 to a large Ah electric dirtbike. Probably finish it this winter and test come spring. I bet this budget kx450 E bike build absolutely stops anything on the market. I'm just curious to if I can fit enough batteries to go far enough to be practical.
@@MiddlePark I'm not going to argue with you about it. Believe what you want, it's quiet. I'm not in some conspiracy to convince the world that they're quiet 👽 I've ridden it in pet areas while people pet their animals. Try that with any gas bike, even CRF50 and watch how fast the cops come. I wont argue that the 150Tpi isn't quiet, especially off idle, but it isn't quiet when you spin up RPMs. Might even be a few random shots with one my videos somewhere.
@@JohnHowerton137 Ya talked to Kiser. They almost brought them in. The sur ron is just to mountain bike style. Just sold my 250f last year. I can wait 5 months. Lols. I will be blasting my Harley around town to get my motorcycle fix in meantime. Thanks for the professional blogs. Lava rock is mean to ride on!
@@unkelfaka6216 Kris is a good friend of mine. KTM wasn't importing enough units for him to make his money back for sending the mechanics to the school and buy the shop equipment. Probably next year he'll be a full E dealer.
![2020 KTM Freeride E-XC [You got it all WRONG!]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/f6A6zohuGr0/mqdefault.jpg)
My bad, “Sparky” had her 2nd birthday the Monday March 21st, the day after I filmed this. Happy Birthday Sparky baby 🎂
This hands down is the best electric bike review i have seen explaining the pros and cons of this bike.
Thanks
Great Video John!! I agree with everything you’ve said. I’m loving both of mine and so are many of my Gas Motocross and Enduro buddies on my backyard track. Did you have any issues with the little brake light sensors up under the brake levers? Three out of four of mine have S**t the bed. Ktm can’t seem to source replacements. Thanks. Larry
No I haven’t had a brake switch issue on any KTM I’ve ever had. Maybe a little sticky/delayed a few times, but no failures.
I reserved a stark varg. I wondered about the instant hit without a clutch and thought I could modulate the power with the rear brake. Glad to hear you are doing that. I opted for the left hand brake lever to do just that.
The Varg power curve will be adjustable in the map unlike the Freeride. The Freeride gives you the three presets. Mode 2 has no hit.
But yes, drag the brake for a similar affect as a clutch.
Have you got your Stark Varg? How is it? Are you riding MX with it?
@@thenobleandmightybeaver4411 nope. they say november delivery. still on the fence about closing the deal. not jazzed about EV technology.
Awesome review. The best value reviews are aways long term ownership when the person isn't beholden to the company in any way.
I just got a Surron Ultra Bee and was surprised by the range. I did a 35km trail ride and still had 30% battery left...but like you stated, I am not an aggressive rider. I am mostly doing twisty single track and my average speed was around 25 Km/h with some long stretches of technical stuff going closer to 10 Km/h.
I took it down some dirt roads to do a distance test and on sport mode, at 80km/h (pinned) I got about 25 km and it was down to 10%. I imagine I wouldn't get much time at all on a MX track before I was out of juice.
The Ultra Bee has a 74V/55aHr battery with a 12.5V engine and weighs ~190 pounds/88 Kg.
👍 yeah, it's very subject to how much you twist it. Doesn't take too long before you have an idea of where and what the limits are. It's no different than anything else, just a point that haters like to base their attack around since they have little else 😆
Have fun. Thanks for watching/commenting 🤙
I'm an m5b guy too. Best tire out there. Sidewalls are so stiff you can run them low, and it ends up getting more traction than gummies in most situations,,, at least in the desert. Then they hook up like mad in fluff and loose stuff.
Yeah, great tire. My 450 is going to have one on it as soon as I get motivated to mount it. Haven’t ridden in months!!!
Awesome John! Thanks for this video! I just got a 2022 today with 58 miles on it!! Wondering, what rear number plates you were using? Just regular EXC? Thank you brother!
They are from the gas Freerides. Look around in the description. Pretty sure I have links to everything.
Enjoy your machine! They're a blast.
Hello. I have 2 KTM freerides, the Old one from 2015 and the 2020… nerver had a problem, have seen all your freeride videos abouth the freeride, also made a lot of modes after seen your videos . Thanks fra a freeride E guy from Denmark 👍
Thanks for the support. Aloha 🤙
thx for the vid bro!! I'm buying my first 2023 Freeride E-XC this weekend👍question: where do I get a rear foot pedal brake kit? Im afraid I might go into muscle memory mode and grab a handful of clutch and fly over the bars or dab the rear brake come off the peg so to be safe Ill want to do that upgrade asap😁
There is no “kit”, you have to get the individual parts. The 23 has different brakes than mine so I don’t have all the parts information for you. The pedal is from a Gas Freeride. Contact Andy @ Dirt First Racing. He’ll probably have the numbers for the new bike or maybe takeoff parts from one of his bikes that you can buy. You can tell him I sent you.
Good luck and have a blast! They are super fun and hassle free to ride.
John, I’ve watched all of your videos and actually purchased my first 2022 because of your videos. I’ve now purchased a second 2022 since I really love the bike. My local dealer says he has not heard anything about them being discontinued. Are you completely sure they are being discontinued in current form? I’ve also have a battery on order which seems near impossible to ever receive since they have been back ordered without an expected delivery date forever.
Well I’ve heard it from two sources (one was Stark CEO), but not directly from KTM. I haven’t read everything. The Freeride E LV is slated for 2023 in company literature though. I can’t imagine they would keep both bikes. I believe I was incorrect in this video about the power reduction of the new bike (which I covered in other comments here). I think I misread the literature and now believe it to be more or less the same powerplant (or spec at least), but with a 5.5kwh battery, which would probably add weight. They may have shed that somewhere else. Doesn’t seem likely it’ll weigh the same or lighter though, as I don’t believe battery tech has come that far since the last update. I could be wrong.
I suspect your battery is just supply chain/manufacturing problems. I have a couple videos that I never released (probably should). I blew my water pump up on a rock in Dec/21. It’s on backorder until June/22. I researched, sourced one myself and made some videos about it, because there was no way I wasn’t going to ride it for 6 months. This new globalist authoritarian world we’re living in has killed manufacturing. Our supreme leaders would rather we stayed indoors, watch propaganda and grip our chairs in fear instead of having fun with our family & friends. That way they can earn our vote to save us from it! There’s a new boogeyman every day🖕
Some people get regretful when they buy something and then find out about new models. That’s a terrible way to live though, because if you wait for every new model… you will wait forever! As long as you enjoy your purchase and it meets your needs, it was money well spent! I have a blast on the little Freeride! I sometimes wish I had the new bodied 690, but I got a fair deal on mine and it does everything I need. So maybe someday when I can afford it I’ll get the latest gen, but reality is… I really don’t need it and I enjoy riding the one I have.
@@JohnHowerton137. Thanks John, I agree with everything you said and I enjoy your videos. You are a straight shooter which is appreciated. I initially struggled with the purchase of the Freeride e. I had just purchased a 2022 Husqvarna TE 300i. I have a garage full of bikes that range back to 70’s CZs and Maicos. I also have a 2017 KTM 690 and it serves my needs as well. Anyway and to shorten my ramble, your videos pushed me over the edge to purchase the Freeride e. Honestly, I’ve never had so much fun on a bike. My friend who has far more bikes than me (he has at least 250+) and is a die hard four stroke guy, likes the Freeride as well. As you can tell, I don’t mind owning bikes that aren’t the latest but are still remarkably fun to ride. Battery technology will undoubtedly continue to improve and it’s likely that solid state batteries will replace our current technology. It’s also possible that the Freeride e might not fit the exact model the battery consortium between KTM, Honda and other manufacturers have agreed to last year. Regarding current Freeride battery technology, someone will rebuild batteries once it becomes necessary. Considering how overpriced the current Freeride batteries are today I look forward to the future when it will likely cost a fraction of the amount to rebuild them. Please post your other videos especially regarding the water pump. I know it’s a lot of work but it would be greatly appreciated.
@@JohnHowerton137 ,
www.pierermobility.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/PIERER-Mobility-AG_Company-presentation_BY2021_RS_March-2022.pdf
I'd love to see those collections 🥰
I'm sure I've had plenty of other single funnest days on other bikes, but the Freeride is probably the most fun I've had in general over all rides on a bike. I rather enjoy the noiseless riding. Releases my stress about pissing people off! After dealing with people trying to control your life all day, every day, I just want to be left alone when I ride!
There's people already out there cracking Alta batteries open, so I have no doubt in 5 years or so there will be people providing "battery services." I doubt the Freeride batteries are very complicated. No doubt when E is more mainstream, there will be some solid state cells of some other cell tech that could be put into that battery case without too much trouble.
Love my Freeride, I didn't realize KTM was going to discontinue it. Surprised it took me two years to get one and bunch were ordered and delivered. Seemed to sell great! I was going to sell mine when my Varg is delivered and keep my Segway X-260 and the Varg but if they discontinue I think I will keep it. BTW street legal is awesome mine is. Figured I can't fly under the Radar like the Segway, so the Freeride is registered and insured. Great video are you still charging the Freeride off your Home Solar System making it truly a Free Ride!
Yep, outside of buying tires, it’s cheap to operate.
I was hoping for a few more updates myself as the platform is a neat size. They really weren’t selling until I started making videos, dealer had lots and I got mine and my buddy’s easily. 1 million Freeride YT views later… he’d sold out, called me and told me he ordered twice as many and they were pre-sold 🤣 I get lots of emails and some comments saying I pushed people off the fence 😊 That makes me happy, because I know how much fun I’ve had on it with more to come!
The new one looks kind of neat, but I have little interest in it at 12HP. Maybe that would be fun in a city, but not what I’m looking for. I’m stoked for the Stark. I’ll program smooth map at about 35HP and ride the damn wheels off it!
@@JohnHowerton137 yeah 80hp on the Varg is going to be insane. I just couldn't help myself I had to get the 80hp version. But you're right I trail ride the Freeride so I mostly use Mode 2. I am hoping to get 4 hours continuous ride time out of the Varg on a power mode that is fun and safe. I am not sure how much continuous ride time I do with the gas bikes but the milage is usually around 55 miles for a full day of Colorado Single track. I doubt the Varg could pull that off it would need some alien technology! 👽 its exciting times in the off road arena. Yamaha, Kawasaki and Honda are dipping their toes in the electrics heard Beta is too hope so.
@@lboughto my guess is the Varg in a map similar to the Freeride Mode 3 will get about 40 miles.
I ordered the 60HP because I never see myself using anything close to that except for shits and giggles (i'm sure it would be fun to rip a big hill climb). With twice the torque of a 450, even at half power it'll pull harder than I like to hold onto. Mode 4 on the Freeride is all I ask for 🤣
It's the same moto for the 60 & 80 so I could always pay for the firmware update if I wanted more power.
@@JohnHowerton137 I completely agree 80hp is for the giggle factor. I rarely even put the Freeride in Mode 3. 40 miles in a reasonable power mode would be okay with me. I have an oversized tank on my Beta 300RR/RE I don't expect the Electric platforms to match the range.
The front tyre you're running sounds similar to the Dunlop 606 I used to run on my KTM gasser. They had a stiff carcass with medium sticky coumpound on the luges. The only problem was they wore out so quick.
All more aggressive than the 606, but that is a good dual sport tire! I’d run them if they weren’t so pricey.
Awesome video man, I think the discreetness of it is a really good selling point. Ripping around the neighborhood without people calling he cops because someone hears a mx bike 😂 I'd probably do allot more riding. We ride mostly trails, woods and some enduro type stuff and normally out for around 3-4 hours. I recon this should do the job. Think the longest trip was around 95km. On my CRF250R with a 7L tank it made it back with still some juice left, wonder how this would do. (It was a chilled ride mostly) I guess you need the charger unit to charge it, not able to pop it into a power grid somewhere for a top up? Think this could be a really fun bike... 🤔
Off-road the furthest I’ve gone is 40km. That’s about the limit. When you know the limit… it’s not a problem. Just turn around when you’re half way out.
Yes, you need the specific charger and it’s a 240v plug. I charge off my dryer outlet. On high setting it’s about 1min per 1%. A generator can be used if it has 240v and enough output… say if you were camping.
It’s a blast. I have a pile of videos you can watch and see about every angle of the bike and all the pros and cons of owning it. It has limitations, but fun isn’t one of them 😆 Great to teach wife, kids and friends on. Mode 1 about anyone can ride it without fear (except falling over part).
@@JohnHowerton137 Thanks for the reply man, much appreciated! I hear you on the limitations. One gets around it yeah.
I see, thanks for that.
It looks like a really fun bike yeah. The main thing is that you can ride it anywhere, that's what is really cool about it for me.
I checked out a few already 😉 still plenty to go! 😅 new sub 👍 Thanks dude
@@DirtbikesNDirtRoads and when you can ride it anywhere… that means you don’t have to go far 😉 Keep a gas bike around for the long exploring days with buddies. Their bikes collect dust all week while you buzz around wherever 😋
I’ve been wondering a lot about the range/time. I was always thinking my tank last a while it is more like 3 gallon tank on the 2 stroke I’m pretty sure, and I do short rides rarely do any long or hard riding. But you explaining how a normal 2 stroke last about 18 miles and this lasts 18 miles was something I was assuming would be the case with comparing the bikes. Thanks for the review.
Yeah, there are a lot of factors, but it doesn't suck as much as most people think. I've never worried about it, just kept the limitation in mind. It's like going to a fancy restaurant... you don't go to get full, you go for a different kind or better dining experience. If you went thinking you'd get full, well you'd be a moron. If you bought an ebike expecting long range adventures, well then maybe go get the head checked 🤣
A normal single-track ride is likely 25 mile range. You can expect hours of fun trail riding. Throw in some faster trails and it's about 18, hammer the throttle non-stop in motocross and its like 10-11. If you ride a 2-stroke 125-250 it's roughly 1.5 gal. I never rode 85's, but I'd suspect it's about the same as one of those.
They're a hoot to ride, and it's so much fun to not feel like a criminal every time you want to ride.
6.11.22 It is good. To bad is going to be discontinued. Waiting to see what you do with the Stark Varg when you get it. Thanks for making the video.
Well not disco… but updated. Really excited to get the Stark. Lots of videos will be made for that bike too.
This is incredibly helpful - thank you! Considering buying one, but not sure about my 6' 2" 215lbs frame... Your characterization of the bike as "3/4" has me a little nervous. I can roll up to Bozeman and sit on one, but would love your opinion.
The friend I ride with all the time is 6'2" 200. He loves it. I'm currently 6' 185. Doesn't feel small at all. It doesn't feel like sitting on a 85 or anything.
Thank you!
Hi, nice video! How much kilometers(or miles) with a charge at max power and at mid power?
It really doesn’t work that way. Every user will have different mileage. It depends on how much you turn the throttle. It’s about like having 1.4 gals of gas in a 2-stroke 250cc.
Avg is about 17-22 miles for me, but I’ve had as low as 10 miles on the track and as high as 30 miles on the street.
@@JohnHowerton137 ok thank you 😁😁
Just got a 22 this week….planning a ton of mods.
Congrats! If you can figure out how to milk 5 more HP out of it, I’m all ears 😋
It’s now 2 years after you made this video. Curious if you have the stark varg yet. I am considering a 2023 freeride (price reduced…soon to be discontinued?), but wonder if I should hold out a bit since there are other options looming. My main focus is stealth property fun and single track trail riding. Thanks!!
No Varg, still have freeride. I was basically never going to get to ride the Varg because all my friends are dual sport and most the riding areas require it.
The nicest thing about the KTM is the fact that it is a KTM. You know where to find parts and there is quite a few other accessories and parts that fit from the 85 and the gas Freerides.
Awesome thanks for the reply. Sorry one more question. How has battery degradation been having owned it for a few years? Thanks again for the kind replies!
@@milesholland6826 sorry, UA-cam has about the crappiest comment system I’ve ever seen in my like as far as notifications go.
The answer is Zero. My has been sitting fully charged (a no-no for storage) in a barn for 356 days since I broke my leg. We took it out yesterday and it got 30 miles on the charge. The furthest it’s ever gone with any rider and it still didn’t hit limp mode.
So I have to say zero 🤷🏼♂️
@@JohnHowerton137 thanks again - that’s great about the battery. Bummer about the leg though, hope that’s all better!
Hi. Does it feel twitchy? You mentioned it has steeper steering angle than normal enduro bikes. Can it compete in fast enduros head to head with big bikes? I have Beta Xtrainer which has steeper steering angle and the bike is scary twitchy at higher speeds. So this is my big worry and question here. Thanks.
I can't even think of a time it's gotten twitchy. It's rock solid. That said, it doesn't really reach twitchy speeds.
42 mph is on the outer limits of it's useable speed. That's not the fastest it goes, but that's the top end of anything that you don't have to wait for. So while it is excellent in tight single track, any XC type race with speeds that often hit over those speeds... it'll get smoked. The battery life will be short too.
Tight flowing singletrack it would be tough to beat. Roughly anything up to 3rd gear on a petrol bike. Beyond that, it's out of its wheelhouse. 45-60ish mins and 15-18 miles for the battery in racier XC type conditions.
So sub-45mph conditions with reasonable flow and 30mins motos are the conditions I'd personally be confident racing it in. In those parameters, it would be tough to beat.
Great video were you able to get this bike street legal?
I haven't yet because the sales tax and fees was going to be like $900 and I've been too broke since the video because the Gov double screwed me on my taxes this year. Plus my cost of living skyrocketed and all my investments evaporated, so play money is gone too 🤷♂️ Money is the only reason.
It's only 6-7 months away from my Varg arriving, so realistically I probably won't. I need to plan to pay for that bike.
Is it worth $6600? I already put a down payment on, but still on the fence. I ride an eride pro ss in the trails and love it. I’ve never rode a dirt bike in my life, and riding my eride pro ss in mililani trails got me curious in wanting to get a dirt bike. The free ride is on sale right now for 6600, and I’m just wondering if it’s worth buying. I have a tendency to put my feet down on certain steep hills with all sorts of rocks and obstacles going up on my eride so I can balance and help my self up if I lose traction. With the free ride, I tip toe on flat ground. Also, I don’t have a 220 plug. And for range, I’m not too sure how far the trails are, but I don’t want to get stuck in the trails. All those considered, would it be worth it for me to buy the free ride or an ultra bee (surrouns version of the free ride)
@@OahuNative well, I have nearly $13k into mine and never regretted it, so I'd take it half price 🤣
25 miles is a LONG way in nasty trails. It'll probably outlast you. It will feel top heavy for a few rides if you have experience on other bikes, but that feeling goes away.
@@JohnHowerton137 thanks for the quick reply. so I guess that’s a yes? And over the ultra bee?
I swear the trails feel longer than 25 miles, that’s including the ride back to the truck 🤔 will it still get 25 miles with steep hills with obstacles to climb like rocks roots, etc?
How do you go about charging it safely if I don’t have a 220 outlet?
@OahuNative honestly, I can’t give you that answer. Everyone rides differently. I can pretty confidently tell you 20. It’s just like a big V8 if you’re hammering on the throttle (hill climbs) it gets 6mpg, if you’re cruising hwy at 50mph (easy slow single track) you get 20 mpg. The eBikes are like that. They dont use battery when off the throttle, but they chew through it when you’re on it hard. I get like 10-11 miles when I ride motocross style, 16-18 mixed XC, and 20-25 rocky trails, single track, jungle stuff. Riding with friends I get closer to the 25, by myself closer to the 16 because I’m not putting around as much 🤣
Voltage converter. See my last short.
I can’t tell you it’s better or worse than the equivalent SurRon because I haven’t ridden them. That said…. A SurRon is a SurRon and a KTM is a KTM. I know which one I’m choosing. That said, SurRon is pretty separated from it’s Chinese competition… I’m just not there with it. I feel like the objective reviewers base the SunRon products on potential (Ie.. what it could be). I am on board with the Electric Motion bikes. I flew to Ohau to ride John’s a few years ago. They are great trail bikes, but I knew I’d want to jump the crap out of whatever I got 🤣
@@JohnHowerton137 I see. My eride pro ss (similar to the surron but better, lol) can jump a lot of stuff, lol. It’s pretty quick and have a lot of torque. Sport mode it can go 60mph. I love that bike and it can go anywhere I want to and have all the power in need and some, plus long battery range. The ktm piqued my interest when I found out it was half off. Checked it out at the dealer, loved the aesthetics. When I sat on it to see how it feels, I was tip toeing. I’m wondering if that would be a problem as I never rode a dirt bike before. When I ride trails with my eride pro ss, certain hills with rocks and roots in it, I have a tendency to put my feet down for balance, or if I’m going to bail, as I can reach the ground. Im wondering if that will be a problem for me if I were to do the same thing on the ktm. Im not that experienced in riding trails. Last weekend, was my fourth time going, but I feel confident on my eride pro ss, because I feel In control. If I can barely touch the ground with the ktm, I won’t feel in control and I’m wondering if I’ll be laying the bike a lot🤦🏽♂️
As for the charging, do you know if it’s safe to charge it from the dryer? I’ve read on forums that there’s an adapter that can go into the dryer plug. But if I’m not mistaken, isn’t that 240 volts? Opposed to the 220v required for the charger? I ordered the adapter the day I put the down payment on the ktm, in the event I buy the bike, at least I’ll be able to charge it. But I’m. Not too sure if it will be safe to use that adapter on the dryer outlet. As the voltages are different
@@OahuNative everything about it is more bike. The eride is just an overweight mountain bike. You'll use both unless you plan on selling the eride.
The dryer 240 is the same thing. Mine has mostly been charged off my dryer plug with an adapter my friend and I made.
I have videos for all this stuff. Get into my Freeride playlists and binge watch for a while 😋🤣
Is there a 12v supply on the bike? I want to add a headlight and rear light. Can you use the ktm 85 headlight?
It's already wired for and comes with lights all the way around. KTM 85 doesn't use or have a headlight.
@@JohnHowerton137 Hmm the one i want to buy(2017 model) has no lights at all thats why i asked.
@@HardcoreRS172 they probably just took them off.
Hello, I just bought a 2022 ktm free ride and the bike keeps lossing power (like it’s restricted) when I ride it hard. I have to shut off the bike to reset it. Have you had this problem?
Sounds like it thinks it’s overheating. Take it to the dealer. You could do other things like see if it has coolant in it or feel the battery (for heat) when it goes into that limp mode.
I know of a dealership that sells these $3.5k off msrp. Street legal would definitely make them desirable.
Most states they can be… and there’s some online services to register them in the PITA states like mine. They’re less desirable now that the Varg pre-orders aren’t far away from shipping.
cant wait for the day they make a motocross version of there ebike
Think that probably a reality in 2024-25.
nooooooooo! dont sell it! i bought mine because of u dude! 44h so far :)))
Well you can still enjoy it without me 😉 and that's probably 10-11 months away anyway.
I almost never want to sell bikes, but thats tough when NOT independently wealthy. My 250F, which I love riding and have wanted since 2004, is on the chopping block. Makes me sick to my stomach, but life is about sacrifice. I'm looking to get another street legal enduro due to limited riding access around here 😞
@@JohnHowerton137 just wait half a year, this bike will go up in price, in europe we will not have 2023 models this year because of war. So all bikes like ktm, husky, gas gas will go big time in price ;) for how much you want to sell it by the way?
@@lakytattoo not for sale anytime soon 😋 Don't get the Stark until Jan probably.
@@JohnHowerton137 ordered stark too, but 2023 june only
@@lakytattoo it’s be worth it. Until then we have the Freerides to have a last on 😋
A wireless external mic would be a great purchase for your videos
Yeah I've looked around. Action Cams aren't very compatible with the wireless stuff.
Keep the production quality pretty low around here. Not only to I not have the time or places for good recording, I do it all solo with budget cameras. I've just had to accept that or the videos never get made. If I plan stuff out, I get called into work, tradewinds start, or it rains. Just can't prepare for it all.
Last weekend I carried carried 20lbs of camera crap on my back the whole excursion and never even got a shot.
Maybe 1 in 8 videos I intend to make actually get recoded or uploaded. All the subpar footage for two videos last week were lost after hours of editing. I just don't have the time and no help. There is like a grand total of 5min of clips on this channel that my hand wasn't operating the camera. It's an act of God to even get somebody to take a phone clip for me or even get them out to ride. I'm considering a move, but it's a huge financial commitment.
How does it compare power wise (excluding torque) with a 125 mx bike (e.g. 125sx) ?
A lot stronger off the bottom in general in Mode 3 (because of the torque). Mode 2 is probably similar. No clutch to bang, so it's kind of hard to explain. Signs off like you're transmission is a 4 speed. About 41mph is all you get for usable speed.
@@JohnHowerton137 Thanks!
@@kineticfix there is a lot of things that just make it feel so different. Like ZERO vibration. Never had one person disappointed in the power (even a factory pro). I wouldn't mind a little more, but I want a little more on a 125 too... that's why I bought a 200. The top speed is unimpressive, but it wasn't designed for top speed. It's plenty fast enough for single track stuff and tight spaces. Use it within it's niche and it's wicked fun!
Are you getting the 60 hp or 80 hp Starq
60, and I'll ride it around 30-40 most of the time. No reason for the 80, and if I did want it, it can be unlocked later with a firmware update.
Most the media guys rode the 60 around 90% or less in all the recent videos. With all the torque, it's almost unusable any more than that. I think Sebastian is the only guy that's probably ridden one in berserker mode 🤣
Sucks the are discontinuing this bike. I was thinking about getting one. I wanted one because it was small and level 1 was weak. Thought it would help keep me out of trouble (can't seem to keep myself from doing dumb stuff).
Looked at the Varg and now I can't wait until you get one. 85hp I mean that's crazy.
Yeah it does. I think with a some redesigned plastic, and maybe another battery and brake update, they could still sell a bunch of them. The Freeride platform across the board is a great platform. The brand doesn't really have a play bike, so it has a nice little niche.
At 12HP and $10k+ price tag, I don't see the Freeride LV being a slam dunk or even imported into this market.
I still wouldn't discourage you from getting one. With so few ebikes on the market that have kind any power, I see these bikes still having demand. The Alta sells just a well as it did when it was new... they weren't discontinued, the company folded!
@Mark get one before they discontinue it. I certainly regretted missing out on the Alta MX-REDSHIFT. They still sell for crazy money when you can find them. The KTM is high quality and so much fun to ride. The torque is unreal and addictive. Smiles per Miles can't be beat!
Can these be street legal
In most states yes. Funny enough I live in a blue state and it can't... unless I register it in a red state and ride with out of state plate. Got to love the "green" virtue signaling 🤣
Have you looked at the surron Storm dirt bike?
Not in real life, but I was not at all impressed from what I've seen in videos.
I have ridden the X model, but I never uploaded the video. It's a neat little single track mountain bike like rig.
My local dealer has a demo Storm bike but the battery ships separately and the battery hasn't arrived yet. I want to check out reverse. Sounds silly but I bet its awesome. These bikes are really heavy and the kinds of trails we ride reverse will be great for positing the bike for the best obstical attacks. Seems like I am alwsys pulling my bike backwards and wearing myself out.
That bike is a tanker, so it does need the reverse. Haha
@@JohnHowerton137 The storm is crazy, its like 315 pounds though. Idk about you but that seems a lot for a 22KwH motor. Also cant trust crap from china. Had to sell my light surron because of the reliability.
@@happygnomev2576 yeah, I wasn't impressed. Looks like a giant turd to me.
When companies don't ride and just want a cheap product to market, you end up with products like that Stormbee. When the company rides and wants to give the market what it actually desires, you get a product like the Stark.
Baa! Lithium! Bah! Green Energy... Baa!
Nobody actually gives a shit about that. Even the people who pretend to care. If they actually cared they would be pro pipeline and nuclear. It's all virtue signaling and gov control (or stupidity). Everyone knows it except for their sheep followers.
That said, solar actually works well here. Sun blazes hot every day. Not so much in Germany 🤣
@@JohnHowerton137 you're smart. All these batteries are way more toxic to the environment than combustion engine car. Most of it will end up in landfill. Just look at how they bury wind turbines to get rid of them.
@@jamesfranko5098 yeah it’s virtue signaling BS. I just ride them because they are fun as hell, NOBODY bitches and it basically costs nothing because of the solar on the roof with the sun blazing every day. The bonus is NO AIR FILTERS or oil changes. You can bury the bike in the biggest duff berm you’ve ever seen until it’s out of juice and not give two shits because it’ll never suck dirt into the motor 😁
@@jamesfranko5098 ua-cam.com/video/TBCeNrVZD-c/v-deo.html 😋
tried rear tubliss?
This bike no, because I like the structure the tube adds to the tire. I feel like it helps reduce sidewall roll when cornering. I ran it both ends of my 350EXC for about 8 months until I was left twice riding with rock punctured carcasses in the front tires and switched to a nitromousse.
I had a hard low-profile MX tire on the bike for a long time to combat sidewall roll. The drawback is, the ground here is so hard, it gave a lot of sharp feedback to the rider. Felt like the tire was solid rubber 🤣 Probably enhanced by my stiff suspension.
It's taken me a long time to even like 18" wheels in general (not just this bike). I might finally be warming up to them as I'm seeking a little more comfort with age. Haha!
Hey john! Theres a used freeride for sale near me but i don't know how to read the hour meter on the trip computer. It says '78 7'
Does it have 78 kilometres or 787?! Kinda embarrassing but i cant figure it out and the dumbass seller says it has 55 kilometres. Please help!
You should be able to toggle through the menu with the + button and see all kinds of things.
I changed all the menus in mine, but if I had to guess, 78.7km with that low of miles, the thing prob still has tits on the tires. 787km they'd have decent amount of wear.
Doesn't make any noise? It's louder than my 22 te150i was.
Not even close. The rider can hear it, and the camera picks up the sound, but outside of that it's pretty silent. To everyone else it's basically just chain and tire noise. Which is how you can gauge traction. It can be heard 150ft away wide open, but the ear doesn't pick it up or recognize it as a motorcycle. Completely unoffensive to non-riders, only offensive to gas riders online who've never seen one.
@@JohnHowerton137 That electric gear mesh sound is way louder than the off pipe/low rev noise emitted from the TE150I, like I'm so confident of it that we should meet up with a sound meter and do some testing. On multiple occasions I've snuck up on big game and hikers with my 22 TE150I. And being that the TE would outpace the battery powered KTM off pipe, I see it as a fair comparison. The e KTM sounds just like the electric conversion motors that are available now like the QS138 motor, and I am confident the QS138 is better than what KTM is using. These e-bike dirtbike things make significant noise it's just a different, it's a whining sound similar to a miter saw spooling up. I have heard it in person, and hear it in video no matter how much editing is done, as long as the audio isn't completely removed.. I've been slowly gathering parts to convert my 12 kx450 to a large Ah electric dirtbike. Probably finish it this winter and test come spring. I bet this budget kx450 E bike build absolutely stops anything on the market. I'm just curious to if I can fit enough batteries to go far enough to be practical.
@@MiddlePark I'm not going to argue with you about it. Believe what you want, it's quiet. I'm not in some conspiracy to convince the world that they're quiet 👽 I've ridden it in pet areas while people pet their animals. Try that with any gas bike, even CRF50 and watch how fast the cops come.
I wont argue that the 150Tpi isn't quiet, especially off idle, but it isn't quiet when you spin up RPMs. Might even be a few random shots with one my videos somewhere.
@@MiddlePark you're a complete idiot. Electric is way quieter than a 2 stroke.
Big Island Kona town!!! I live in Kona and looking to buy one!!!
Mine will likely be for sale in 5 months. Until then, you'll probably have to ship one in.
@@JohnHowerton137 Ya talked to Kiser. They almost brought them in. The sur ron is just to mountain bike style. Just sold my 250f last year. I can wait 5 months. Lols. I will be blasting my Harley around town to get my motorcycle fix in meantime. Thanks for the professional blogs. Lava rock is mean to ride on!
@@unkelfaka6216 Kris is a good friend of mine. KTM wasn't importing enough units for him to make his money back for sending the mechanics to the school and buy the shop equipment. Probably next year he'll be a full E dealer.
@@JohnHowerton137 I will check back in 5 months to buy your bike!!! Braaapp!!
@@unkelfaka6216 she'll be all shined up with lots of extras looking for a new faka to ride her 😉
lol im 2 yrs late just got on last month
Better late than never 😋 Bet you’re having a blast.
Tesla should make a bike
Elon doesn't like bikes. Thinks they're dangerous. Made a quad to put in the Cyber Truck though 🤦♂️