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No-one in Mattighofen needs to be told how to build bikes. Strong in the touring and sports segment, gravel is practically in the DNA of the KTM bike manufacturer. Incidentally, the bikes have absolutely nothing to do with KTM motorbikes. KTM has been bike-independent since the nineties. And the Austrians recognised the trend towards gravel just as early as the fact that these bikes also make sense as fully equipped randonneurs with lights and mudguards. The X-Strada with the suffix LFC (short for Light-Fender-Carrier) is the child of this realisation.
The most important details about the X-Strada LFC from KTM
- Price: 1899 Euro >> available here
- Wheel category: Gravel, Randonneur
- Switching group: GRX 400 (2 x 10)
- Weight: 12.7 kg (test bike in size M, MYBIKE measurement)
- Permissible total weight: 117 kg
- Guarantee: 5 years
- Special features: Carbon fork, battery lights
Gravel gears and carbon fork
For less than 2000 euros, KTM equips the Randonneur with a carbon fork and the frame is made of aluminium. This leaves a little less money for the equipment. The GRX 400 gravel drivetrain brakes and shifts reliably, but is not a highlight in terms of value. On the other hand, it scores points with its versatile double crankset for making long distances and with Shadow Plus damping on the rear derailleur, which keeps the chain in check on bumpy trails.
Many of the SUV parts come from brand manufacturers. However, the 45 millimetre wide SKS plates are a little wobbly, as is the KTM kickstand. At least one is fitted. The battery-powered lights from Busch und Müller are an unusual choice. A dynamo solution would be more practical for everyday use. The 50 lux front headlight is also more suitable for being seen than for illuminating dark forest paths.
How the X-Strada rides in practice
So fold in the side stand and off you go! At 12.7 kilograms, the KTM is not a super-light sprint monster, but it still moves forward quite well. Randonneurs in this price range are often a little lighter at around 12 kilos. On the other hand, the inexpensive Shimano groupset works well and enables a fine gear gradation with the double crankset.
Characteristic of the X-Strada the very sporty riding position. The rider sits noticeably bent forwards and more like on a classic long-distance racer than on a gravel or everyday bike. This suits road cyclists, but can scare off gravel newcomers. Given the riding position, we were somewhat surprised by the grippy G-One Bite tyres from Schwalbe. Although they still roll well, the focus is more on off-road terrain.
A clear highlight is the high-quality Tubus luggage rack, which can carry a load of up to 25 kilograms. That's a lot for a fully equipped gravel bike. However, the somewhat tight system weight of 117 kilograms for rider, luggage and bike together relativises the advantage somewhat. It would also be nice if the mudguards and kickstand rattled a little less over bumps.
Advantages and disadvantages of the KTM X-Strada LFC
Advantages
- Carbon fork
- Many branded parts
- Sturdy luggage carrier
Disadvantages
- No dynamo
- (Too) sporty seating position
- Equipment does not appear well thought out in all details
Conclusion on the X-Strada from KTM
The X-Strada LFC leaves us with somewhat mixed feelings. Faster tyres, a dynamo and higher handlebars would suit the bike better as an everyday and touring bike. The X-Strada could also be a little lighter despite the carbon fork. Many branded parts and a generally good finish at a fair price are on the plus side. - Adrian Kaether, Test Manager MYBIKE
Adrian Kaether
Editor
