2012 KTM 500 XC-W Specifications

Name: 2012 KTM 500 XC-W
Brand: KTM

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2012 KTM 500 XC-W Overview

The 2012 KTM 500 XC-W is an enduro / off-road motorcycle built around 510.4 cc of displacement. Under the tank sits a Four stroke, single cylinder, SOHC, 4 valves per cylinder engine, a compression ratio of 11.9:1. From a practical standpoint, the 2012 500 XC-W tips the scales at 114 kg, carries a 8.5 L fuel tank, offers a seat height of 970 mm and spans a 1482 mm wheelbase. Scroll down for the complete 2012 KTM 500 XC-W spec sheet covering every technical detail from suspension travel to tyre sizes.

2012 500 XC-W - Pros & Cons

Strengths

Factory engineering: The 2012 KTM 500 XC-W represents KTM's engineering at the time, with a specification built around real-world usability.

Considerations

Tall seat height: The 970 mm seat height will challenge shorter riders - tiptoeing at low speeds is something to factor into your decision.

Owner Experiences & Common Issues

General ownership notes

The 2012 KTM 500 XC-W has built a reputation for solid everyday reliability when serviced to schedule. As with any motorcycle of this era, documented service history is the single biggest indicator of long-term reliability when buying used.

500 XC-W - Buying & Maintenance Guide

What to check before buying

When inspecting a used 2012 KTM 500 XC-W, start with the basics: check the service book for oil change frequency, inspect the chain and sprockets for wear, and look for oil seepage around the engine casings and rocker covers. A cold start test is invaluable - a well-maintained 500 XC-W should fire up cleanly and settle to a smooth idle within a few seconds.

Oil and filter changes

Regular oil changes are the single most important maintenance task on any 500 XC-W. Stick to the manufacturer's interval - typically every 6,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. Always use the correct viscosity grade as specified in the owner's manual.

2012 KTM 500 XC-W - Frequently Asked Questions

What engine does the 2012 KTM 500 XC-W have?

The 2012 KTM 500 XC-W uses a Four stroke, single cylinder, SOHC, 4 valves per cylinder engine with 510.4 cc of displacement. It is liquid cooled.

How much does the 2012 KTM 500 XC-W weigh?

The 2012 KTM 500 XC-W weighs 114 kg. This is the manufacturer's wet figure.

What is the fuel tank capacity of the 2012 KTM 500 XC-W?

The 2012 KTM 500 XC-W has a 8.5 L fuel tank.

Is the 2012 KTM 500 XC-W suitable for shorter riders?

The 2012 KTM 500 XC-W has a seat height of 970 mm. This is towards the tall end of the spectrum and will require most riders under 175 cm to tiptoe at stops.

What brakes does the 2012 KTM 500 XC-W have?

The 2012 KTM 500 XC-W uses Single 260 mm disc at the front and Single 220 mm disc at the rear.

What tyre sizes does the 2012 KTM 500 XC-W use?

The 2012 KTM 500 XC-W runs 90/90 - 21 front and 120/90 - 18 rear tyres. A good selection of sport, touring and all-weather rubber is available in these sizes.

What gearbox does the 2012 KTM 500 XC-W have?

The 2012 KTM 500 XC-W is fitted with a 6 Speed transmission.

KTM 500 XC-W Spec Evolution

The KTM 500 XC-W was produced across 3 model years (2013-2016). The table below highlights the key specifications that changed across the production run - useful whether you are comparing years or tracking down a specific variant.

Specification	2013	2015	2016
Suspension - Front	WP-USD ø 48 mm	WP Performance Systems MXMA 4860 upside down	WP Performance Systems MXMA 4860 upside down
Suspension - Rear	WP PDS-Federbein	WP Performance Systems 4618 PDS DCC	WP Performance Systems 4618 PDS DCC
Starter	Kick and electric	Electric	Electric

Key Specifications

Engine

Four stroke, single cylinder, SOHC, 4 valves per cylinder

Power

N/A

Torque

N/A

Top Speed

N/A

Weight

114 kg / 251 lbs

Fuel Capacity

8.5 L / 2.2 US gal / 1,9 Imp gal

Full 2012 KTM 500 XC-W Specifications

Year 2012 - 13

Make Model KTM 500 XC-W

Displacement 510.4 cc / 31.1 cu-in

Engine Detail Four stroke, single cylinder, SOHC, 4 valves per cylinder

Bore x Stroke 95 x 72 mm

Compression Ratio 11.9:1

Cooling System Liquid cooled

Fuel Induction Keihin MX FCR 39

Ignition Contactless controlled fully electronic ignition with digital ignition adjustment, type Kokusan

Starter Kick and electric

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