KTM’s electric-only Freeride E will be available in Europe in two versions in 2015.
KTM officially launched its 2015 Freeride E electric-powered off-road motorcycle in Saalbach-Hinterglemm, Austria this week, according to a press release by the company. The Freeride E will be available in two versions and reach European dealers in a matter of weeks.
The difference between the two, known as the E-SX and the E-XC, lies in their accessories. The E-SX is primarily aimed at motocross use, while the E-XC features lights and equipment that suit it more off-road and dual-sport riding.
KTM says that the Freeride E platform demsonstrates the company’s long-term commitment to electric-powered motorcycles, although the company is still first and foremost a producer of internal combustion engine-powered motorcycles.
“While KTM doesn’t believe that electrically powered motorcycles will replace conventional combustion engines in the near future, the company has a clear vision in the creation of a segment in its own right,” the release stated. “KTM believes that in the long-term the Freeride E can offer opportunities for new riders and also demonstrates KTM’s commitment to being at the forefront of motorcycle technology, along with its concern for the environment with the E-Bike’s zero emissions and low noise level.”
KTM PR Manager Thomas Kuttruf said that the company is really excited to see the Freeride E enter the motorcycle market.
“The feedback from our E-Parks, situated around Europe, has been really positive and this is a quality product, which we hope to see on many tracks and trails in the near future,” Kuttruf said. “KTM is completely committed to this project, and while the Freeride E is already a very established bike, this is really just the beginning of our involvement in E-Mobility.”
To build on the buzz of the Freeride E, KTM also announced an association with YouTube street trials phenomenon, Danny MacAskill of Scotland, who is now an official Freeride E ambassador. A video of MacAskill riding the Freeride E is expected to be released shortly.
“The FREERIDE E is so much fun,” MacAskill said. “I found it quite easy to transfer from the bicycle, especially with the brakes on the bars and it being just twist and go. It’s got more power than I need for sure! For me it’s been a great introduction to motorcycles, as I’ve done a little before but not much, and every time I ride it I am more and more confident. I’m super-impressed with the KTM brand, and I’m really stoked to be an ambassador and part of the family.”
KTM has announced a new Freeride E Microsite, which is available in six languages and, for the first time in KTM’s history, offers fully digitalized 3D renderings with state-of-the-art exploded view animations of the models.
For more information on the Freeride E, visit KTM.com.
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