KTM Unveils 2026 300 EXC HARDENDURO With Big Updates for Toughest Terrains
KTM has unveiled its 2026 300 EXC HARDENDURO, its latest bike to incorporate a slew of improvements aimed to keep the bike atop of all of motorcycling’s most grueling of events.
As Manuel Lettenbichler’s bike of preference and already on a path to securing a fifth Enduro World Championship crown, the HARDENDURO has been an off-road division flag bearer of sorts from KTM since its introduction in 2024. This latest incarnation comes equipped with improved suspension settings as well as new design flourishes all directed at a day of competition in the grueling world of Hard Enduro racing.
New appearance, new hardware
The 2026 machine is equipped with new graphics in KTM’s signature orange, balanced by white and black trimmings, a glossy orange frame, and anodized PowerParts. It is in mechanical alterations that hardcore riders will have a renewed interest.
Up front, the 48 mm WP XACT Closed Cartridge fork now has preload basevalve adjusters, new damping, lighter and shorter springs, and a new pressure reservoir design. A one-piece hydro stop saves 200 grams in weight. Out back, the shock is now a WP XPLOR PDS unit that has also been redeveloped to keep the chassis balanced.
Fueling receives a slight modification as well, this time in the guise of a new CPC connector cap giving extra strength and protection against grime. Cooling is revised through a new-look radiator cap and a standard-fit radiator fan.
HARDENDURO DNA
As its name indicates, the 300 EXC HARDENDURO is loaded out with a litany of race-prepped parts to conquer abusive landscape. Key items are:
- Factory wheel set on black rims w/ orange nipples and hubs
- Factory frame protectors and ribbed seat
- Closed handguards and skid plate
- Floating front disc with guards and fixed rear disc
- Triple clamps CNC machined black anodized
- Pull straps, radiator fan, and anodized orange trim throughout
The kit is finalized by Euro 5+ homologation so that the HARDENDURO is race- and road-proven in significant markets.
Availability
Production of the 2026 KTM 300 EXC HARDENDURO will be initiated from September 2025 at KTM’s Mattighofen plant.