With the Ultra 1964, KTM offers hardtail riders an option for those who, despite the aluminium frame, do not want to compromise on functional features. The long-established Austrian brand is not following the trend towards ‘downgrading’ budget aluminium hardtails. Many specialist retailers, in particular, have recently scaled back the spec packages on their hardtails considerably. This is due to the declining market share in Europe caused by the gravel bike trend, amongst other factors. Unlike many competitors on the market, however, KTM has equipped the top-of-the-range Ultra 1964 – priced at just over 2,000 euros – with a respectable spec. Is this a winning formula for mountain biking fun despite the reasonable price tag? We’ve put the KTM Ultra 1964 Pro through its paces in detail.
Conclusion
Despite its aluminium frame, the KTM Ultra 1964 Pro offers an exciting hardtail package. The spec is high-quality and sport-oriented. As a result, the bike achieves an acceptable weight despite not using carbon. However, a narrow wheel-tyre combination, a rigid seat post and conservative geometry are likely to limit the riding enjoyment to gentle terrain. - Jan Timmermann, BIKE editor
The KTM Ultra 1964 Pro in detail
- Intended use: Touring
- Suspension travel: 100 mm
- Wheel size: 29”
- Frame material: aluminium
- Weight: 12.6 kg (BIKE measurement, excluding pedals)
- Price: 2,099 euros
- Special features: Luggage rack, side stand and mudguard mounts
Facilities
- Front fork: Fox 32 Float Rhythm
- Drivetrain / Gear ratio: Shimano Deore (1 x 12) / XT, 34; 10–51 (519 per cent)
- Brakes: Shimano Deore, 160 / 160 mm
- Wheels: Shimano WH-MT501
- Tyres: Maxxis Rekon Race Exo, 29 x 2.25”
Good value, but not cheap
The Ultra 1964 range starts at just 999 euros at KTM. The Pro model is the top-of-the-range version and costs more than twice as much. In return, customers can look forward to ‘genuine’ mountain bike components. The hardtail is equipped with a Fox suspension fork offering 100 millimetres of travel, the simple but tried-and-tested Rhythm damping system and a handlebar lockout. The Shimano single-chainring drivetrain with twelve gears offers the same gear range as many higher-end mountain bikes. The combination of XT and Deore components is functionally impressive. However, KTM specifies a 34-tooth chainring – so you’ll need to bring some power with you for steep climbs.
As well as its wide race-spec gear ratio, the KTM Ultra 1964 Pro boasts other sporty features. For instance, the 160-millimetre brake discs are on the small side. There is a risk of overheating on long descents. The inner diameter of the rims is particularly narrow. As a result, the already narrow tyres cannot spread out very far, and the KTM sacrifices grip, traction and efficiency. Mounts for a luggage rack, mudguards and a side stand promise more practical everyday utility. Despite its practical aluminium frame, the total weight of 12.6 kilos is nothing to be ashamed of. However, other specialist brands offer a comparable weight with carbon frames for as much as 600 euros less.
A real classic
Incidentally, the name ‘KTM Ultra 1964’ pays homage to the year the bicycle company was founded. However, this hardtail doesn’t just evoke a classic feel through its name and some of its features, but also through its geometry. The seat tubes are long across all sizes. Added to this is a rigid seatpost, which – due to its 27.2-millimetre clamp diameter – cannot easily be replaced with a dropper post. As a result, the bike feels too bulky for technical and steep trails. The reach is compact and the head angle is steep. Overall, this hardtail is likely to be better suited to relaxed rides than to demanding off-road terrain.
Strengths and weaknesses
Pro
- well-equipped despite its aluminium frame
- practical everyday features
- reasonable weight
Cons
- small brake discs, a rigid strut and narrow tyres
- Conservative geometry can compromise off-road safety
- Value for money could be better
What do you think: Do aluminium hardtails deserve good specs, or would you rather go for carbon straight away? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Jan Timmermann
Editor