Chris Birch thoroughly tests his custom KTM 500 EXC-F in all types of terrain
Chris Birch, a renowned off-road rider and enduro champ, recently shared his latest custom bike creation, a modified KTM 500 EXC-F that he describes as the “ultimate all-rounder.” The bike boasts a lightweight design suitable for technical trails, comfort for long days of riding, and the ability to handle various terrains from rally stages to weekend explorations.
Documented in a video by Kriega, Birch takes his newly customized KTM 500 EXC-F on an unforgettable adventure through the rugged backcountry of New Zealand. As he prepares for the journey, he encapsulates his riding philosophy by stating, “A bit of struggling is good for you in the morning.”
Prior to this backcountry expedition, Birch had already tested his custom-built bike on a few overnight trips to fine-tune its performance. The project started with the installation of rally twin tanks, laying the groundwork for a bike that seamlessly merges travel and hard-enduro capabilities. Birch emphasizes the importance of prioritizing performance above all else, ensuring that the 500 EXC-F maintains its agility despite the modifications.
One of the key features of Birch’s custom KTM 500 EXC-F is the TACS PRO tire-pressure system that allows him to adjust tire pressures on the fly from trail settings to hard-enduro configurations with a simple button press. Additionally, Birch upgraded the bike’s suspension to WP Pro Components, custom-tuned for optimal performance by Solid Performance. Another notable feature is the TSP ERM (ECU Reflash Module) device, offering enhanced control over the bike’s mapping and performance settings.
During the thrilling ride showcased in the video, Birch, accompanied by fellow riders James Scott and Liam, navigates challenging terrains with expertise and skill. The action-packed footage captures their adventures, including rock crawling, jumps, and high-speed wheelies, highlighting their exceptional riding abilities. Despite overcoming rugged terrains, Birch recounts a comical incident where he underestimated a waterfall climb, resulting in a brief bike malfunction that he successfully resolved.
The trio also explores a legal riding spot on a remote beach in New Zealand, away from the usual hustle and bustle, creating unforgettable memories along the way. Birch concludes the day with a 2-hour ride back home, testing the bike’s street-oriented modifications and reflecting on future excursions. He has already made minor adjustments to the bike, ensuring that it is finely tuned for upcoming adventures, with plans to tackle Idaho’s extensive single-track network in the near future.