2020 KTM 150XC-F TPI FIRST RIDE IMPRESSION: FUEL INJECTED TWO-STROKE TUESDAY

On this week’s Two-Stroke Tuesday we take a closer look at the 2020 KTM 150XC-W TPI (transfer port injection) model and give you a brief impression of our first ride on this all new machine. Don’t worry we still have 2-Stroke Theater packed with premix burning machines for your viewing pleasure and don’t miss the exclusive link to a sweet KTM 125SX project we did.

All new for 2020 the 150 XC-W  now features the TPI (transfer port injection) letters next to its name. This means that there is no longer a need for re-jetting or mixing fuel, making this easy-to-shred thoroughbred even simpler to ride and work on. Already recognized for its supreme agility, the new KTM 150 XC-W TPI benefits from a brand-new frame with improved flex characteristics that, together with the many other new changes, helps elevate rider and machine to incredible new levels of competence.

ENGINE & EXHAUST

Two years after the introduction of the world’s first 2-stroke electronically controlled fuel injection offroad models, the success story continues with completely reworked, new generation offroad competition engines, all fitted with the revolutionary TPI system. This now also includes the KTM 150 XC-W TPI, further demonstating KTM’s unrelenting commitment to 2-stroke advancement. The benefits are clear: besides huge improvements in fuel efficiency and exhaust emissions, the system also removes the need for pre-mixing fuel and re-jetting, meaning that with less effort, the engine always runs smoothly and crisply.

CYLINDER

The KTM 150 XC-W TPI cylinder has a bore of 58 mm and with refined port timings and the aid of a sophisticated power valve, provides really smooth and controllable power characteristics. For the EFI application the cylinder features two lateral domes which hold the fuel injectors that supply fuel to the rear transfer ports. The downstream injection guarantees excellent atomization of the fuel with the upstreaming air. Thus, the loss of unburnt fuel is minimal, resulting in less emissions, a more efficient combustion and reduced fuel consumption. A small tube in the back of the cylinder is connected with an intake pressure sensor, which supplies pressure data to the control unit. The cylinder features a power valve unit with a sophisticated mechanism for the lateral support exhaust ports. The exhaust port layout increases engine performance, while the upper contour of the exhaust port has been machined to ensure more accurate port timing. The new cylinder, with TPI technology, produces outstanding performance over the entire range with significantly increased torque compared to its predecessor. Last but not least, the new cylinder allows for the use of a more widely available traditional type of spark plug.

CRANKSHAFT

A reliable piece of engineering that has been skillfully balanced to guarantee minimal vibrations. It allows a decrease of the displacement to 125cc just by replacing cylinder, piston and head. There’s no more need to change the crankshaft. Two-in-one in no time.

FRAME

All XC-W models feature new high-tech, lightweight chromoly steel frames. This includes hydro-formed elements produced by state-of-the-art robot welding. They retain their race-proven geometries, but by redesigning certain areas they now have a higher lateral, longitudinal and torsional stiffness, resulting in better feedback for the rider, playful handling and improved stability. The laterally attached engine head stays (the connection between cylinder, head and frame) are now made of aluminum, reducing vibration and further contributing to precise cornering. The bikes also feature newly designed lateral frame guards with a structured surface, improving grip, while also serving as a heat protector against the muffler on the right side. The subframe is made of extra-light and stable aluminum profiles, weighing less than 2 lbs (900 gr) and is 40 mm longer than before, providing better rear fender stability.

SWINGARM

The KTM 150 XC-W TPI’s one-piece aluminum swingarm is manufactured using a gravity die-cast production process, offering exceptional strength at the lowest possible weight. The single-component casting process offers low weight, perfect flex behavior and also allows for a large number of geometry solutions.

FRONT SUSPENSION

All XC-W models are fitted with the latest 48 mm diameter WP XPLOR upside-down forks, featuring a split fork design developed by WP and KTM. While each side is fitted with springs, they have separate damping functions. Compression damping is on the left and the rebound on the right. Both can easily be adjusted via the dials on top of both fork tubes with 30 clicks each. Although already distinguished for outstanding response and damping characteristics, the 2020 fork features a calibrated mid-valve piston for more constant damping. It also has new upper fork caps and clicker adjusters for easier adjustment with a new color and graphic design. The new settings keep the front end higher, providing increased reserves against bottoming out.

REAR SUSPENSION

The WP XPLOR shock absorber is the key element in the proven PDS rear suspension design (progressive damping system), where the shock is directly linked to the swingarm without an additional linkage system. This keeps weight lower and reduces the chances of hooking on rocks. Optimal dual-sport specific damping progression is achieved by using a second damping piston in combination with a closed cup towards the end of the stroke, and supported by a progressive shock spring. For 2020, improvements to the second piston, as well as a reworked shape and sealing of the cup, lead to improved resistance against bottoming without any sacrifice of comfort. New settings on the XPLOR shock with PDS technology provide better damping characteristics and match the new frame and reworked front-end set-up perfectly. It is fully adjustable, including high and low-speed compression, so you can set the shock up to suit any track, trail and rider preferences.

FIRST IMPRESSION

When KTM asked us to take a trip to the Pacific Northwest we  jumped at the chance to ride the all new 2020 KTM 150XC-W TPI model. The one question everyone wanted answers to was; “Is the new 150 TPI machine better than the older 200cc carb models?” YES and NO. The new machine power wise is almost the polar opposite of the 150SX model. The power comes on lower, pulls harder sooner but does sign-off much earlier than the SX model. Throttle response on the TPI 150 is great and it makes good power all around, with the crank being balance vibration is minimal. The Xplore fork and shock combo are going to be on the soft side for racing or anyone over 170 pounds but for the average person trail riding it will be ok. We only got a very limited amount of time on the bike but we look forward to spending a lot more days on the trail with this machine!

2-STROKE THEATER

Check this insane KTM 125SX project we did! Click the image below for more.