Ktm Adds This 'n That For 1977

KTM ADDS THIS ’N THAT FOR 1977

It’s KTM west of the Mississippi and Penton east of that famous running mass of mud, but whatever the decals say, both motorcycles are identical and neither needs an introduction. We’ll concentrate here on the 1977 models of KTM, a complete line of competition-oriented off-road machinery.

Four engine sizes are offered; 125, 175, 250 and 400 cc in various versions. Enduro models can be had in all four displacement sizes and are finished in blue. They feature special enduro lighting, 3.5 gallon fuel tanks, wide fenders and front-wheeldriven VDO speedometers. The frame is newly designed and KTM claims to have changed the 175 model rather extensively. Leading-axle Marzocchi forks are standard equipment on every model.

Motocross versions can be identified by their bright red paint and have alterations that make them more suitable mounts for this type of competition. Though fuel capacity is less than that of the enduro/cross country models, it’s been upped a bit this year to 2.5 gallons, making sure a 45-minute moto can be completed without running out of fuel. Geometry and suspension damping is also tailored for motocross. One will be hard pressed to find a more powerful machine in any of the displacement sizes. Motocross versions are available in 125, 250 and 400 cc sizes.

Cross country models are basically designed for desert racing and are similar to the motocross models except for larger fuel tanks and VDO speedometers. All the bikes feature six-speed gearboxes, ratios being wide or close depending upon the machine and the use it will be put to. Aside from personal touches, there is little one need do to a KTM to make it competition ready and able to win.