KTM really announced its push to an electric future, what it calls E mobility, with the SX-E 5 minibike launched for the 2020 model year. This is an electric equivalent for a 50cc two-stroke race bike. They've since released an even smaller electric, the Yamaha PW-sized SX E 2, and the brand announced a second-generation of the SX E 5 for 2025. Rumors persist we'll see 65cc and larger equivalent electrics from KTM soon.
But long before KTM introduced an electric mini, they already had an electric bike, the Freeride E. It was an oddity, though, because it was a 'tweener. It was not the full-on electric equivalent to any existing gas bike in the model range. It was more like a 9/10th sized bike that was fun, but existed only for a very specific niche.
Ten years on, a second-generation Freeride E has been announced, and it will hit dealerships in 2025. The bike is now street-legal. As you would imagine, 10 years is a long time in the development of electric bikes, so KTM is touting some big improvements on the technical side, including swappable batteries, a 20 percent longer run time, and a much improved chassis. Still, this bike is not being pushed as a racer, but more as an easy step into the sport for newcomers.
KTM's press release is below.
FRESHLY CHARGED 2025 KTM FREERIDE E TO BRING NEW ENERGY TO KTM E-MOBILITY
The 2025 KTM FREERIDE E is a 99% new product featuring an in-house-developed drivetrain, expanded battery potential, and high-class components wrapped with unforgettable style and design that always distinguishes orange motorcycles from the crowd. KTM treasures the virtues of the platform: the KTM FREERIDE E tackles not only some of the environmental issues with offroading (low emissions and near silent noise, which means it can be ridden almost anywhere) but also the benefits of low maintenance. Better still, the 2025 KTM FREERIDE E is street-legal, meaning a new world of riding opportunities, off-road or on, have been opened up.
The bike provides the thrill of instant torque and power, and a set-up with both brakes mounted on the handlebars will allow experienced users to work more on their technique and positioning while being the easiest possible introduction to the awesomeness of riding for newcomers.
Back in 2014, KTM unveiled the KTM FREERIDE E in Enduro form. A decade later, technology has advanced, hardware is better and lighter, and software has become cleverer. Into this setting comes the latest expression of the KTM FREERIDE E, showing that KTM rigorously believes in the power and possibilities of battery power. The 2025 KTM FREERIDE E is a natural progression from the superb roster of new KTM SX-E 2 and KTM SX-E 5 e-minis, which forms the ideal learning stage for future riders.
So, what’s new?
KTM’s R&D department has been busy bringing the most exciting interpretation of electric drivetrain technology to the KTM FREERIDE E platform. Boasting 11 kW of nominal output, 18.5 kW peak power, more than 37 Nm of torque, and a top speed of 59 mph (95 km/h), the engine is a much quieter, cooler unit that is water and dust proof and fully integrated into the overall character and feel of the motorcycle. Three ride modes (ECO, NORMAL, and SPORT) and three energy recuperation settings (OFF, MID, and HIGH) can be synced to ensure flexibility with the range and power package of the KTM FREERIDE E. Traction control can also be pegged to a certain level to limit or increase wheelspin. More safety features come from the ‘rollover sensor’ that cuts the power in the event of a crash.
KTM prioritized nimble and light handling and developed a new chassis. The geometry has been altered, and the wheelbase widened for more stability and comfort. The chassis can remain featherweight and slim by hinging the chrome-molybdenum steel frame on the load-bearing engine and battery architecture. Expect the final ride-ready weight to be less than 251 lb (114 kg), and the aluminum and glass-fiber reinforced nylon subframe helps in this respect. The KTM FREERIDE E’s seat height is 35.6 in (906 mm).
The 63.9 lb (29 kg) MX50 Lithium-Ion battery has been tested and proven in the most extreme conditions. It has been constructed in a way that means it is interchangeable, allowing the use of a second pack while the charging process takes place or to increase travel use. The capacity is 5 kWh, an improvement of 1 kWh compared to the previous KTM FREERIDE E and 20% more riding time or distance. Battery life can withstand over 1,000 charge cycles before dipping to 80% effectiveness. Typical Enduro riding time is estimated to be between 2 and 3 hours.
The KTM FREERIDE E comes with a 660 W charger and will complete a full charge in 8 hours with a normal household supply. A 20-80% rate can be reached between 4-5 hours.
Robust and dependable handling is achieved with the latest generation of WP Suspension. The front-end is reactive, but also planted when required, thanks to light 43 mm WP XACT split design forks, with the air capsule in the left unit and the oil damping system in the right. Adjustment is easily made with the single air pressure valve and supplied air pump for preload and clickers for compression and rebound.
The brand-new design of the WP XPLOR PDS system provides 250 mm of travel on the rear. Oil flow has been optimized for a more consistent damping feeling from the 374 mm shock. New bearing seals have enlarged service intervals. The WP XPLOR PDS comes with adjustable clickers for tool-less alterations on the fly.
Other features include black aluminum wheels, BRAKTEC braking systems with 260/240 mm front and rear discs, a new switchcube selection unit for the handlebars, and in-mold graphics and aesthetics that perfectly complement the look and image of the KTM SX and KTM EXC lines.
2025 KTM FREERIDE E Technical highlights
// New 2025 model from the ground up, new in-house KTM drivetrain
// 11 kW nominal power, 18.5 kW peak power, 37 Nm of torque, and a top speed of 59 mph (95 km/h)
// 20% more battery potential. 8h charging time with 660 W unit, 1.5h with 3.3 kW power charger (0-100% capacity) & 5 kWh battery capacity for 2-3 hours of Enduro riding time
// 21”/18” aluminum wheels
// Adjustable and light WP XACT and XPLOR suspension technology redesigned chromoly steel frame purpose-built for the platform and 251 lb (114 kg) total weight
// Removable battery in less than 10 minutes
The new 2025 KTM FREERIDE E will be rolling off the Austrian production line and will be available at authorized KTM dealers in January 2025. For more information, visit ktm.com.
