Unfortunately, KTM did not deliver the test bike in the requested frame size. The 43 cm chassis was too small for all test riders. Unfortunately, this affects all evaluation criteria. Uphill you sit very squat and rear-heavy. The small bike climbs early and gets nervous at the front. Due to the steep seat angle (geometry is basically OK), the problem should be solved with a taller frame height. The rear suspension feels sluggish, a little over-damped and not according to the measured 155 millimetres. The Bark can't shine downhill either due to its riding position. It feels nervous and unbalanced. KTM also fitted the test bike with Schwalbes Nobby Nic tyres of the previous generation with an outdated rubber compound. These tyres ride significantly worse than the latest Nobby Nic generation. On the damp, rocky sections of the test lap on Monte Brione, the bike slid unstoppably from one rock to the next. Only the sensitive Fox Talas fork (also here the 2010 model, triple adjustable) was able to prevent worse with its good guidance. We have positive things to say about the bike's handling on twisty singletrack. This is where the Bark really shows off its manoeuvrability.
ConclusionThe too small frame costs points. The KTM feels unbalanced, not least because of the outdated tyres.
+ Good equipment for the money
+ Rigid, low-cost chassis
- Narrow handlebars
- Tyre choice
Web: www.ktm-bikes.at
