CURRENTS+

MARKET EXPANSION Big Things Coming For Little KTMs

In an effort to expand its market KTM has added to its SX-E range of electric balance bikes. Featuring a bigger 36V brushless motor, the all new SX-E1.20 joins the entry level 1.12 (for the youngest riders) and 1.16 (riders between 4-8). KTM claims, “The 2023 KTM SX-E range of balance bikes allows junior riders to unearth an all-new experience of riding motorcycles from the earliest age, with three models presenting the ideal platforms to hone their skills.”

With its 36V brushless motor platform delivering a top speed of 32 km/h the 1.20 promises big fun and a longer range for older kids. Weighing in at just under 15 kg with the battery, the KTM SX-E 1.20 is ideally suited for kids between the ages of 10 to 12 and up to 52 kg, with three power modes available to best suit their skill levels. The KTM SX-E 1.20 can be ridden in training mode with a limited top speed of 16 km/h, up to 24 km/h in medium or standard mode, or in full power mode at 32 km/h. Run time is dependent on which power mode is activated and the type of terrain ridden, with between 30 to 60 minutes possible per three-hour charge time.

MANITOU J-Unit front forks with 80mm of travel, and a full aluminum frame offer a low 584mm seat height that is still manageable for little rippers. Additional highlights include 20“ nylon wheels with sealed bearings, pneumatic INNOVA tires, and hydraulic Hayes Dominion A2 disc brakes (60mm front and 140mm rear).

Dealer deliveries are anticipated in August.

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED FOR TRIUMPH TE-1 PROJECT

During our recent trip to the Triumph Experience Center in Hinkley, we saw James Bond’s Scrambler, Steve McQueen’s Great Escape bike and even Fonzie’s Happy Days ride featured in the onsite museum… but quietly hidden under a tarp on the factory floor was the star of Triumph’s electrification effort. We had “covered” this hard charger a couple of times, but now that the TE-1 had proven its point — in spades — it has been parked… for now.

“Now that the project has come to an end, I can reveal some of the details,” says Chief Product Officer, Steve Sargent. “Triumph’s TE-1 project was set up to develop ground breaking solutions in motorcycle electric engineering.” Among the goals smashed by TE-1:

• 20 Minute Charge Time

• 100 Mile Range

• 130kW / 175 HP Peak Power

• 0-60 in 3.6 Seconds

• 25% Lighter Than Any Comparable eBike

“Whilst it was only a prototype, the TE-1 provides great insight as to what will come from Triumph in the future, which is something I can promise you we are as excited as you are to discover together,” concludes Sargent.