The $16,500 KTM 500 EXC-F (Full Review)

Is a $16,500 build worth it? The 2026 KTM 500 EXC-F is anemic in stock form, but with $2,000 - $3,000 in mods, it becomes an absolute beast. Here is my full review. Enter to win this 2026 KTM 500 EXC-F build and my KTM 300 XC, but you have to enter before midnight on August 31st 2026. https://dirtbikechannel.com/pages/winmydirtbike In many ways, this bike took me back to being a kid, riding on the front of my dad's old 1981 500. It holds a special place in my heart, and it might be the most capable all-around dirt bike I’ve ever owned—handling 90 MPH on the highway just as easily as slow, technical singletrack. While it’s the ultimate machine for dual-sport adventuring or a trip down to Baja, Mexico, it still won't be my daily primary bike. In this video, I break down why. 00:00 - The $16,500 KTM 500 EXC-F 0:08 - Childhood Nostalgia: Dad's 1981 500 1:41 - Review Kickoff 2:19 - A tail of two bikes 2:48 - Can't Breathe 3:29 - Looks like an insect 4:02 - Redeeming features 4:47 - Dual sport but not 5:25 - Making changes 6:24 - It can do anything 7:33 - It's big but doesn't feel big 8:12 - Motor is heart and soul 9:16 - Torque everywhere 9:38 - Chassis 10:26 - New Radiators and Fan 11:10 - Brake tip 11:24 - Headlight 11:48 - Suspension 12:30 - Best Brakes and Clutch in class 13:39 - Sealed Chain 14:12 - Makes me comfortable 14:48 - Too Expensive 15:04 - Neutered Stock Motor 15:24 - Worst Silencer Ever 16:38 - Vibrates a lot in pegs 17:44 - Signal lights 18:33 - Tires Suck 19:44 - No Rim Locks 20:52 - Kickstand 21:31 - I actually Really Like It Order your Parts from Rocky Mountain ATV/MC using this link to support DBC https://www.rockymountainatvmc.com/l/Dirt-Bike-Channel?ref=1017