The miniest of the KTM Sportminicycles are back with updates for 2026. There are two 50s for budding racers to bring to the track—the 2026 KTM 50 SX and its Factory Edition favored sibling. Let’s take a look at what’s new on the KTM 50s and what differentiates the standard 50 SX and the Factory Edition.
- The transmission shafts have been strengthened for greater reliability. The single-speed gearbox now features wider shafts with additional reinforcement of other parts.
- The WP XACT AER front fork houses a new air cartridge. This cartridge uses an improved sealing method, delivering enhanced damping performance, according to KTM.
- A new 17mm triple clamp top nut simplifies steering head maintenance. This design, adopted from KTM’s full-size SX models, keeps the steering head cleaner.
- The radiator cap is now threaded for easier access. This design allows quicker removal with less effort.
- The exhaust system on the standard KTM 50 SX features an upgraded flange gasket for better reliability. The KTM 50 SX uses a KTM expansion chamber, while the Factory Edition boasts an FMF Fatty pipe with an FMF PowerCore 2 muffler, and a KTM-CNC-machined exhaust flange, offering increased low-end and midrange power, per KTM insiders.
- The Factory Edition’s intake system uses a two-stage reed for improved performance. In contrast, the standard model retains a single-stage reed.
- The Factory Edition is equipped with a Brisk iridium spark plug for enhanced ignition. The standard KTM 50 SX uses a traditional spark plug.
- The throttle cable assembly includes a new stabilization cap for smoother operation. This cap reduces the risk of cable kinking.
- The 2026 KTM 50 SX and the Factory Edition run different rubber. You’ll find a set of Maxxis Maxxcross tires on the standard model, and premium Dunlop Geomax MX53 tires on the Factory Edition.
- A Hinson Racing clutch cover adorns the Factory Edition. A plain wrap clutch cover is on the standard version.
- Both models feature new graphics and paint schemes for 2026. The Factory Edition emphasizes bold black accents, while the standard KTM 50 SX leans toward a white-dominated design.
- The 2026 KTM 50 SX and Factory Edition will arrive in dealer showrooms next month. Pricing has not yet been announced.
Photography by Visus Studios
2026 KTM 50 SX (and Factory Edition) Specs
ENGINE
- Type: Single-cylinder two-stroke
- Displacement: 50cc
- Bore x stroke: 39.5 x 40.7 mm
- Starting: Kick
- Lubrication: Premix 60:1
- Fueling: 19mm Dell’Orto PHBG BS carburetor
- Intake: Case reed (Factory Edition: two-stage reed valve)
- Exhaust: Expansion chamber (Factory Edition: FMF Fatty pipe w/ FMF PowerCore 2 muffler
- Transmission: 1-speed
- Clutch: Fully automatic, adjustable centrifugal
- Final drive: 415 chain
CHASSIS
- Frame: Central double-cradle chromoly steel w/ steel/polyamide fiberglass subframe
- Subframe: Steel
- Handlebar: Tapered aluminum w/ ODI lock-on grips
- Front suspension; travel: Air-adjustable WP XACT AER inverted 35mm fork; 7.8 inches
- Rear suspension; travel: Linkage-free fully adjustable WP Xact shock w/ PDS damping; 7.5 inches
- Front wheel: 12 x 1.50
- Rear wheel: 10 x 1.60
- Tires: Maxxis Maxxcross (Factory Edition: Dunlop Geomax MX53)
- Front tire: 60/100-12
- Rear tire: 2.75 x 10
- Front brake: 160mm Wave disc w/ Formula caliper
- Rear brake: 160mm Wave disc w/ Formula caliper
DIMENSIONS and CAPACITIES
- Wheelbase: 40.3 inches
- Rake: 24.0 degrees
- Triple clamp offset: 22mm
- Seat height: 25.7 inches (adjustable to 24.9 to 26.8 inches)
- Ground clearance: 9.1 inches
- Fuel capacity: 2.4 quarts
- Curb weight: 99 pounds (Factory Edition: 100 pounds)
