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KTM 500 EXC - User Manual

KTM 500 EXC
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OWNER'S MANUAL 2013
500 EXC USA
Art. no. 3211868en

Table of Contents

Questions and Answers

  • G
    gkleinSep 13, 2025
    Why are the speedometer values (time, stop watch, lap times) deleted on my KTM 500 EXC Motorcycle?
    • H
      Harold WalkerSep 13, 2025
      If the speedometer values (time, stop watch, lap times) are deleted on your KTM Motorcycle, the battery in the speedometer may be discharged. In this case, change the speedometer battery.
  • R
    Robert ThomasSep 12, 2025
    What causes high oil consumption in my KTM 500 EXC Motorcycle?
    • A
      anthony48Sep 12, 2025
      High oil consumption in your KTM Motorcycle can be attributed to several factors. A bent engine vent hose can cause increased oil usage, so ensure it is routed without bends or replace it if necessary. An engine oil level that is too high can also contribute, so check the engine oil level. If the engine oil is too thin (low viscosity), change the engine oil and oil filter, and clean the oil screens. Lastly, worn piston and cylinder can lead to high oil consumption, so measure the piston/cylinder mounting clearance.
  • S
    Steven MosesSep 12, 2025
    What to do if my KTM Motorcycle battery keeps discharging?
    • G
      georgegainesSep 12, 2025
      If your KTM Motorcycle battery keeps discharging, it could be because the battery is not being charged by the alternator, so check the charging voltage and the stator winding of the alternator. Another possibility is an undesired power consumer draining the battery, so check the closed current.
  • S
    sarahthomasSep 10, 2025
    How to prevent my KTM 500 EXC Motorcycle engine from overheating?
    • J
      John WallaceSep 12, 2025
      To prevent your KTM Motorcycle engine from overheating, start by checking the coolant level in the cooling system and inspecting the system for leaks. Ensure sufficient airflow, and switch off the engine when stationary. Clean the radiator fins if they are very dirty. If there's foam formation in the cooling system, drain and refill the coolant. A bent radiator hose should be replaced. Also, check the thermostat, radiator fan fuse, and the radiator fan itself for defects.
  • E
    Erica LewisSep 9, 2025
    Why are speedometer values deleted on my KTM Motorcycle?
    • B
      Benjamin BriggsSep 9, 2025
      If the speedometer values (time, stop watch, lap times) are deleted on your KTM Motorcycle, it's likely that the battery in the speedometer is discharged. You should replace the speedometer battery.
  • D
    Dr. Joseph AlvarezAug 25, 2025
    Why is my KTM 500 EXC engine overheating?
    • J
      Joann Wong PhDAug 25, 2025
      Several issues can cause your KTM Motorcycle engine to overheat. The coolant level in the cooling system might be low due to leaks, so check the system and coolant level. Insufficient airflow, especially when stationary, can also lead to overheating, so switch off the engine when stopped. Dirty radiator fins can impede cooling, requiring cleaning. Foam formation in the cooling system may also be a factor, necessitating draining and refilling the coolant. A bent radiator hose should be replaced. A defective thermostat should be checked, and its opening temperature is around 70 °C (158 °F). Finally, a defect in the radiator fan system, such as a blown radiator fan fuse (fuse 4) or a faulty radiator fan, could be the cause.
  • M
    Michael HicksSep 7, 2025
    What does it mean when the FI warning lamp (MIL) lights up or flashes on my KTM 500 EXC?
    • S
      Steven PetersonSep 7, 2025
      If the FI warning lamp (MIL) is lighting up or flashing on your KTM Motorcycle, it indicates a defect in the fuel injection system. Stop the motorcycle and identify the faulty part using the blink code. Also, check the cabling for damage and the electrical plug-in connections for corrosion and damage. It may be necessary to read out the fault memory using the KTM diagnostics tool.
  • J
    Jonathon NolanSep 6, 2025
    What to do if my KTM 500 EXC engine dies during a trip?
    • C
      Cameron LarsonSep 6, 2025
      If your KTM Motorcycle engine dies during a trip, the first thing to check is whether you're out of fuel; if so, refuel. Another potential cause is a blown fuse (fuse 1, fuse 2, or fuse 3), which would require replacing the affected fuse.
  • J
    Jessica JohnsonSep 5, 2025
    How to reduce high oil consumption in my KTM 500 EXC?
    • N
      Nathan RaymondSep 5, 2025
      High oil consumption in your KTM Motorcycle can stem from several causes. A bent engine vent hose should be straightened or replaced. An engine oil level that's too high needs adjustment. Engine oil that's too thin (low viscosity) requires changing the engine oil and oil filter, as well as cleaning the oil screens. Finally, worn piston and cylinder may require measuring the piston/cylinder mounting clearance.
  • R
    Ricky DiazSep 4, 2025
    How to fix KTM Motorcycle when the engine cannot be cranked?
    • J
      Justin ColemanSep 4, 2025
      If your KTM Motorcycle's engine won't crank, several factors could be at play. You might not be following the correct start procedure. The battery could be discharged, requiring a charge, a check of the charging voltage, a closed current check, and an inspection of the alternator's stator winding. It's also possible that the main fuse or fuse 3 has blown, necessitating a replacement. A defective starter relay or starter motor could also be the cause, requiring inspection.

Summary

Means of Representation and Safety Advice

Symbols and Formats Used

Explains the meaning of specific symbols and typographical formats used in the manual.

General Safety Advice and Risk Levels

Provides essential safety instructions, intended use, and risk level identification.

Vehicle Labels and Safety Warnings

Identifies vehicle labels and provides warnings on reporting defects and tampering.

Safe Operation and Protective Clothing

Advises on safe operation, protective clothing, and work rules.

Important Notes and Vehicle Identification

Warranty, Service, and Spare Parts

Covers important notes on warranty, service, spare parts, and customer service.

Vehicle Views and Serial Number Locations

Shows views of the vehicle and details on serial number locations.

Part Number Identification

Indicates the location of part numbers for the fork and shock absorber.

Vehicle Controls and Operation

Handlebar Controls Overview

Describes clutch, brake levers, throttle grip, horn, and light switch.

Switchgear and Indicator Lamps

Explains turn signals, emergency OFF, starter, ignition lock, and indicator lamps.

Speedometer Functions and Settings

Details speedometer overview, modes, clock, and unit settings.

Fuel Filler Cap Operation

Provides instructions for safely opening and closing the fuel filler cap.

Engine Tuning Controls

Describes idle speed adjustment, shift lever, and kick starter.

Steering Lock and Unlocking Procedures

Explains the steering lock mechanism for security.

Preparing for Use and Riding Instructions

First Use Advice and Pre-Ride Checks

Essential advice for first-time use and pre-ride checks for safety.

Engine Running-in and Difficult Riding Conditions

Guides on engine running-in and preparing for challenging riding conditions.

Riding Instructions: Starting, Shifting, Braking

Covers starting off, shifting gears, riding techniques, and braking.

Stopping, Parking, Transport, and Refueling

Explains stopping, parking, transport procedures, and safe refueling.

Service Schedule and Chassis Tuning

Recommended Service Schedule

Outlines service intervals and tasks for motorcycle maintenance.

Suspension Tuning Basics

Covers adjusting suspension settings based on rider weight and conditions.

Shock Absorber Adjustment Procedures

Details adjusting shock absorber compression and rebound damping.

Fork Adjustment Procedures

Details adjusting fork compression and rebound damping.

Handlebar Position Adjustment

Explains how to adjust the handlebar position for ergonomics.

Service Work on Chassis Components

Fork and Triple Clamp Service

Covers raising, removing/installing fork legs, triple clamps, and protectors.

Front Fender and Shock Absorber Service

Details removing/installing front fender and shock absorber.

Seat, Air Filter Box, and Air Filter Service

Covers removing/mounting seat, air filter box, and cleaning air filter.

Exhaust and Fuel Tank Service

Details main silencer and fuel tank removal/installation.

Chain Maintenance and Adjustment

Covers chain cleaning, tension checking/adjustment, and checking guide.

Frame and Swingarm Inspection

Explains inspection procedures for the frame and swingarm.

Clutch Lever and Hydraulic System Service

Covers adjusting clutch lever and servicing the hydraulic clutch fluid.

Brake System Maintenance

Hand Brake Lever Checks and Adjustments

Explains checking and adjusting the free travel of the hand brake lever.

Brake Disc Checks

Details checking brake discs for wear and damage.

Front Brake Linings Service

Covers checking and changing front brake linings.

Foot Brake Lever Checks and Adjustments

Explains checking and adjusting the foot brake lever free travel and position.

Rear Brake Linings Service

Covers checking and changing rear brake linings.

Wheels, Tires, and Spoke Tension

Front and Rear Wheel Service

Details removing and installing the front and rear wheels.

Tire Condition and Air Pressure Checks

Explains checking tire condition, tread depth, and air pressure.

Spoke Tension Check and Correction

Details checking and correcting spoke tension for wheel balance.

Electrical System Maintenance

Battery Service (Removal, Installation, Charging)

Covers battery removal, installation, and charging procedures.

Fuse Replacement Procedures

Details replacing main fuse and fuses for power consumers.

Headlight and Turn Signal Bulb Replacement

Details replacing headlight and turn signal bulbs.

Headlight Setting Adjustment

Explains checking and adjusting the headlight beam setting.

Speedometer Battery Replacement

Details replacing the speedometer battery.

Cooling System Maintenance

Antifreeze and Coolant Level Checks

Explains checking antifreeze and coolant levels and radiator cap.

Coolant Draining and Refilling

Details procedures for draining and refilling the cooling system.

Engine Tuning and Service

Throttle Cable Play Adjustment

Covers checking and adjusting the throttle cable play.

Idle Speed and Shift Lever Adjustments

Details adjusting idle speed and shift lever position.

Fuel Screen and Engine Oil Level Checks

Explains changing fuel screen and checking engine oil level.

Engine Oil and Filter Change

Details changing engine oil, oil filter, and cleaning oil screens.

Cleaning, Care, and Winter Operation

Motorcycle Cleaning Procedures

Provides detailed instructions for cleaning the motorcycle safely.

Winter Operation Maintenance

Outlines maintenance steps for winter operation and corrosion prevention.

Storage and Preparing for Use

Motorcycle Storage Procedures

Details steps for storing the motorcycle for extended periods.

Preparing for Use After Storage

Outlines steps to prepare the motorcycle after it has been stored.

Troubleshooting and Blink Codes

Engine Starting and Running Issues

Lists common engine starting and running problems and their causes/actions.

Engine Performance and Fuel Consumption Issues

Addresses issues like low power, high consumption, and stalling.

FI Warning Lamp (MIL) Codes

Provides a list of FI warning lamp blink codes and their error conditions.

Technical Data and Specifications

Engine and Tightening Torque Specifications

Lists engine specifications and tightening torques for various components.

Capacities and Chassis Specifications

Provides capacities for fluids and specifications for chassis parts.

Electrical System, Tires, and Fork Data

Lists specifications for electrical system, tires, and fork.

Shock Absorber and Chassis Tightening Torques

Provides shock absorber specifications and chassis tightening torques.

Substances and Auxiliary Materials

Recommended Fluids and Grades

Lists recommended brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil types.

Recommended Auxiliary Substances

Lists recommended auxiliary substances like cleaners and lubricants.

Standards and Specifications

JASO T903 MA and SAE Standards

Explains standards for motorcycle oils and SAE viscosity classification.

KTM 500 EXC Specifications

General IconGeneral
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, 4-stroke
Bore x Stroke95 mm x 72 mm
StarterElectric starter
Transmission6-speed
CoolingLiquid cooled
Rear SuspensionWP XPLOR PDS shock absorber
Ground Clearance355 mm
Seat Height960 mm
ABSNo
Displacement510.9 cm³
Fuel SystemKeihin EFI, throttle body 42 mm
FrameCentral double-cradle type 25CrMo4 steel
Front SuspensionWP Xplor 48, USD fork
Front Brake260 mm disc
Rear Brake220 mm disc
Fuel Tank Capacity8.5 liters

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