KTM has announced it will further bolster its electric offerings with the SX-E3, a smaller entry-level offering based on the success of the SX-E5, to be released for the 2023 model year.
The SX-E3 will fill the gap between KTM’s Stacyc electric balance bikes and the SX-E5 and wider mini-moto range.
Featuring the same chromium molybdenum frame, durable suspension, and advanced lightweight construction as the SX-E 5, the KTM SX-E 3 retains all the “big bike” attributes, but in more user-friendly packaging for younger riders.
Powered by the same permanent magnet electric motor in the KTM SX-E 5, the KTM SX-E 3 has an output of 3.8 kW, with the 60 Li-Ion cells providing a capacity of 648 Wh in a low 48 V configuration. This translates to approximately two hours of ride time between charges, which KTM claims takes 70 minutes from flat.
Up the front is a 35mm non-adjustable WP XACT USD fork to take care of the bumps, providing 144 mm of wheel travel. On the rear, a WP monoshock is mounted directly to the swingarm, offering 133 mm of travel, and is perfectly matched to the front forks.
Being a smaller option to the E 5, the KTM SX-E 3 is fitted with 10-inch black-anodized lightweight aluminium wheels front and rear, which are wrapped in MAXXIS MX-ST tires.
The KTM SX-E 3 also features an adjustable seat height, which can be reduced from 600mm to 555 mm by lowering the bodywork/seat, mounting the rear shock in an alternative position, and lowering the front fork in the triple clamps.
From a safety standpoint, the KTM SX-E 3 is fitted with a roll-over sensor, which will cut power as a result of a crash or tip-over. This is supported by a wrist-worn lanyard key, which also stops the motor in the event of an uncontrollable riding scenario. Additionally, the low noise emissions make the KTM SX-E 3 more accessible to younger riders by being less intimidating and more accepted in areas where noise emissions are restricted.
KTM New Zealand has confirmed that the 2023 KTM SX-E 3 isn’t currently on the cards for our market, however, the 2024 version could very well be. With the current electric offerings across the board focussing on older children, here’s hoping the SX-E 3 heads our way to give our smaller riders a shot at learning to ride without the associated maintenance of a traditional bike.