5 things you need to know about…

KTM’S updated, Euro5-compliant mini sportsbike

1 NOT AS LOWPOWERED AS YOU’D THINK

The 43bhp single-cylinder, Euro5-compliant motor, with its torque-improving 40% bigger airbox, has way more potency than its capacity suggests. Its punch and flexibility make progress a pleasure, although it’s not always smooth when caned, and there’s some chattering unless you use lower gears at town speeds. Even so, it revs keenly, fuels perfectly, and delivers spirited pace on demand

2 CORNERING COULDN’T BE EASIER

Steering is quick and accurate, with turning and holding a line remarkably intuitive for the precise and agile-feeling middleweight. Rider feedback is boosted by the increased flex and improved weight distribution offered by the new 1.2kg lighter frame, which now features a bolt-on subframe

3

STYLING’S SO SHARP YOU CAN CUT YOURSELF

The fresh wind-tunnel-developed, restyled bodywork, complete with LED lighting looks sharp, giving the KTM a claimed higher top speed and definite head-turning potential. This bike’s a real winner in its class, thanks to the quality of its components and an electronic package which supplies cornering ABS and traction control

4 THERE’S A BIT MORE ROOM

It’s roomier than the previous model thanks to the height-adjustable bars now sitting 10mm further forward although the footrests are relatively high. The 824mm seat height means most will get their feet on the ground and the fairing offers enough protection at higher speeds

5 IT’S CAPABLE AND COST EFFECTIVE

Due in dealers around February next year, it’s estimated it’ll cost £5500. For that money, there’s a surprisingly-good-quality feel to the Austrian bike. There’s real attention to detail and high-spec components make it feel much more expensive and accomplished. You have to ride it to realise just how capable it is