An Ambitious Next-Gen Enduro Bike Returns with Even More Versatility

KTM first showed the world its all-electric Freeride prototype back in 2010, but it wasn’t until a few years later that the bike actually went on sale. Thankfully, the platform did at least have time to mature into both a road-going supermoto and a trail-focused dirt bike.

Come 2024, KTM then announced that it had big changes planned for the model in the form of the Freeride E, an all-new version bringing refinements in everything from power to ride time through a completely overhauled design.

KTM

Unfortunately, the Austrian brand then had to put a pin in the project as it focused on other (financial) priorities. Now, however, it’s finally here, and it’s once again benefited from some extra time in the oven.

Freedom to explore

Namely, because the 2027 Freeride E promises to be even more versatile in riding application than its predecessors. KTM has homologated the enduro for street use by adding requisite road-going accouterments like mirrors, turn signals and a plate holder.

KTM

Beyond making the bike 50-state legal, this also means it can hit trails where traditional combustion-powered and competition machines aren’t allowed. Granted, you could previously equip the Freeride E for the road, but KTM is now saving riders the effort of doing so by offering such features from the factory.

In any case, the changes go deeper than bolt-on street fixtures. Even with those additions, KTM has managed to keep its curb weight comparable at 246 pounds. Moreover, for 2027, peak power for the motor increases to 19.2 kW, and the MX50 battery also brings gains with a larger 5.5-kWh capacity. 

Together, the brand says these changes make the Freeride E good for a 59-mph top speed, 37 Nm of torque and 2-3 hours of typical Enduro-esque riding. Because the 64-pound battery is swappable, you can keep replacements waiting on the bench. 

KTM

It’s a good thing, too, because they’re not exactly speedy (the included 660 W charger takes eight hours on a home outlet). Nevertheless, they promise to be hardy batteries, as KTM claims over 1,000 charging cycles before you’ll start to see a dip towards 80% effectiveness.

Electrified versatility

Of course, even before this year’s updates, the Freeride E was a versatile bike. Whether as a supermoto, an enduro, a trials bike or even a motocrosser, the featherweight heft made it fit for new and seasoned motorcyclists alike.

KTM

Moreover, much as some riders tend to be dismissive of two-wheelers without a clutch, the Freeride E’s all-electric drivetrain does bring a lower barrier to entry (and thus more versatile positioning) by way of its simplified operation and maintenance demands.

It’s not just some token effort, either, as it does bring a purpose-built chassis, trick WP XACT suspension and Braketec hardware, along with IP67 water- and dustproofing.

KTM

Rounded out by switchable ride modes, variable energy recuperation settings and an advanced electronics package, it’s made better by a ‘roll over’ sensor that can cut power in the event things go more than a little sideways. 

Availability and pricing

According to KTM’s announcement, the 2027 Freeride E will be available starting April 2026. At this stage, the Austrian manufacturer has not listed pricing on its website, so you’ll have to contact your local dealer to get a scoop on any potential offers.

Although the bike is likely to cost more than a competing Surron (while also being outclassed by its rival in Stark), it’s nevertheless a good offering to have from a brand like KTM. If anything, it’s continuing to raise the floor for the next generation of enduro riding.

KTM

2027 KTM Freeride E

• Learn More

Want to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results.

Related Topics