European regulators investigate KTM over emissions allegations

European regulators are examining KTM following reports that dealers offered modified enduro motorcycles without emissions equipment. The probe covers models from KTM as well as its Husqvarna and GASGAS brands. KTM has rejected the claims and stated that all machines leave the factory in full compliance with regulations.

The investigation stems from media reports alleging that dealers across multiple countries removed emissions controls and installed full-power maps on EXC-type enduro models. These changes allow higher emissions and noise levels, rendering the motorcycles non-compliant for street use. Some de-restricted machines have reportedly been registered in European countries despite the rules. KTM said in a statement that it firmly rejects the allegations. The company noted that all KTM, Husqvarna, and GASGAS enduro models are sold exclusively in road-legal, homologated condition. It added that dealers may configure machines for competition use only at the customer’s request, after which road approval expires. Enduro models account for about 3 percent of KTM’s global sales. KTM pointed out that motorcycles represent roughly 0.3 percent of total CO₂ emissions in Germany, with competition models forming only a small fraction of that total.

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