Welcome back! After an absence of almost a decade, the 125cc sticker is finally back in the KTM Enduro line-up. Looking to regain its title in the 125cc Junior Enduro classes, the 2025 KTM 125 XC-W represents the pinnacle of 2-stroke engine technology, aimed at ambitious junior enduro racers and hobby riders asking for a performance-focused machine - and first-place trophies. The KTM 125 XC-W is a competition only model without street legal homologation.
Adjustability
Getting READY TO RACE has never been easier. The KTM XC-W range boasts a tool-free suspension setup at both ends. At the rear, our legendary, race-winning PDS technology features hand-adjustable dual compression controls, allowing riders to adjust high- and low-speed settings in a matter of seconds. On the front, the forks are also easily adjusted thanks to hand-adjustable clickers on the bottom of the fork shoe and on the fork top cap, making changing settings on the fly as easy as twisting the throttle.
Air filter box
The air filter box is designed to ensure maximum airflow with minimal water intrusion. Precision in how the inlet ducts are positioned is aimed at preventing air deformation and maintaining filter protection. An enduro-specific splash protector under the airbox prevents water or dirt from splashing up from the rear wheel, while the Twin Air filter and air filter support design features a simple fail-proof mounting system for safe and accurate filter installation. All this ensures the air filter is easily accessed, without tools, for fast track-side maintenance.
Fuel Tank
The transparent, polythene (XPE) fuel tank is a signature element of the KTM Enduro lineup. Having undergone thorough race testing in everything from the GNCC to the hardest of FIM hard enduros, these tanks are built, well, like tanks! A one-piece fuel pump and filter manage fuel supply, while servicing is made extra simple with easy fuel filter access. What's more, an updated fuel tank roll now holds the tank more firmly in place and protects the frame against scrubbing.
Switchgear
For 2025, the entire KTM Enduro range will receive new, easy-to-use switchgear. On the right side of the handlebar, you'll find a new, sleeker start/stop switch, and on the left, an optional Map Select switch will allow riders to choose between Map 1 or Map 2.
Engine
Based on the same powerplant that powers the KTM 150 XC-W, the KTM 125 XC-W boasts all the same engine innovations that have been brought into the 2-stroke realm. The engine is designed to centralize rotating mass for optimal operation with the chassis resulting in a light and agile handling feel, together with the benefits of mass centralization and reduced weight.
Throttle Body Injection
The KTM 2-stroke Enduro models feature electronically-controlled Throttle Body Injection - or TBI. The ECU, together with a Keihin 39mm throttle body,calculates the ideal air-fuel mixture by constantly analyzing water temperature, air temperature, ambient pressure, and pressure within the crankcase, the rpm, and the throttle position to ensure the smoothest and most consistent power delivery in the most gnarly of enduro conditions.
Offroad Control Unit
The Offroad Control Unit - or OCU - is located under the seat and replaces all the electronic fuses and relays. All outputs are switched depending on signals from the voltage regulator and the ECU continuously. In the event of over-current, outputs are deactivated individually. This makes for easy error detection as the status of each output is indicated by a red or green LED light. This means diagnosing an electrical issue out on the trail is as easy as lifting the seat, and there's no more need to carry fiddly fuses.
Selectable Engine Maps
Designed for easy operation, the map select switch is available as an optional extra on all KTM XC-W models and allows for the easy selection of 2 unique engine maps. Map 1 is the standard, more linear, and predictable power map, while map 2 is a more aggressive map for added throttle response and more crisp, explosive power output.
Battery & Wiring Harness
As with the rest of the 2-stroke KTM XC-W range, the KTM 125 XC-W is fitted with a proven and reliable electric start system. Powered by an ultra-lightweight 2 Ah lithium-ion starter battery, it provides a safe, reliable starting time and time again, while the wiring harness has most of the electrical components carefully positioned under the seat for easy accessibility.
Ergonomics
The KTM XC-W range features a rider-focussed body-position triangle, providing improved knee contact - especially when standing on the pegs - with improved gripping surfaces all around. With the plastics working to expel mud buildup in wet, muddy conditions, a flat seat profile with a high grip seat cover providing exceptional rider movement and control, and a polyamide-reinforced aluminum subframe providing unmatched rider feel and feedback, your only concern is navigating the terrain ahead of you.
Exhaust
Binging the Braaap! Thanks to the KTM 125 XC-W's compact engine, the header pipe is designed with the target of achieving more ground clearance and reducing the risk of damage when riding over deep roots, ruts, or climbing steep rocks. The silencer is crafted from lightweight aluminum.
Frame
Specifically engineered for longitudinal rigidity, the KTM XC-W range is engineered around an all black powder-coated frame providing exceptional rider feedback, energy absorption, and high-speed stability. This has been achieved by repositioning the rotating masses in the frame and the inclusion of a forged steering head connection. New parallel frame mounts also improve flex characteristics, while the footrest mounts have also moved inwards, slimming things down. And when the ride comes to an end, a completely redesigned forged one-piece side stand ensured things your enduro weapon stands proud.
Subframe
An ultra-light lightweight subframe takes charge at the rear of the main frame, featuring a 2-part polyamide and reinforced aluminum construction. With the help of computational dynamics, a specific rigidity was engineered into the subframe, to deliver outstanding handling and rider feedback. This compact subframe design also boasts the the ability to bend and flex in the event of a crash, rather than break, with the subframe fully integrating electronic components, without any extra need for brackets, holders, or unnecessary fixtures.
WP XACT Closed-cartidge Fork
A 48 mm WP XACT Closed Cartridge spring fork provides fast and consistent damping, with optimized oil flow. This means these forks ensure unmatched performance at every level. Fork protection rings also protect against dirt intrusion. But, best of all, the fork allows for full adjustment of compression and rebound without the need for any tools.
WP XPLOR Shock
Remaining a hallmark of KTM Enduro weaponry, an PDS rear shock concept improves the anti-squat behaviors of the chassis. This remains the most reliable and maintenance-friendly option for competitive enduro racing. Moreover, a lightweight WP XPLOR PDS rear shock takes charge at the rear. For 2025 the rear shock received updated settings, resulting in improved pressure balance within the shock. With consistent damping, as well as full adjustability thanks to easy-to-use hand clickers for adjustments on the fly, it remains the setup to beat.
Wheels and Tires
The KTM 125 XC-W rolls on a set of high-strength GIANT alloy wheels coupled to CNC-machined hubs and aluminum nipples. These are wrapped in a set of ultra-grippy Maxxis MaxxEnduro tires providing exceptional traction in all conditions.
Stability
The KTM XC-W range maintains stability at any speed thanks to its forged steering head connection and triple clamps providing riders with a forgiving feeling. Crafted from high-grade aluminum, they offer a more flexible steering stem, precise alignment of fork tubes, and accurate geometry of fork clamps. This setup ensures highly responsive and smooth fork action, as well as unwavering stability during ultra-fast flat-out special stages.
LED headlight
Lighting the way forward, the KTM XC-W range features an LED headlight unit and light mask. The mask itself features triple clamp protection against roost and does away with the rubber mounting straps for improved fitment. Most importantly, the LED lighting unit provides serious illumination, making riding in the dark a completely new experience.
