With Bosch’s switching to the new Smart System standard, a large number of bicycle manufacturers were faced with difficult considerations: Do they go along with this step? If so, to what extent? How will the integration of the new battery with the changed dimensions into the existing models be solved? KTM has also been thinking intensively about such questions. Looking at the novelties for the 2022 season, it can be said that the company is by no means struggling with this.
Confidence in own strengths
Rather, the motto in Mattighofen seems to have been: If, then do it right. This applies first and foremost to the implementation. According to its own statement, KTM has taken the Bosch template and invested a considerable amount of development work of its own. The result is a separate mount for the battery. This has the great advantage that despite the increased length of seven centimetres, the battery still fits into the previous down tubes of the respective frames. As a result, the geometry of the bikes could be retained in all frame sizes. For example, a KTM Kapoho from the previous season corresponds in this respect to the model now presented for 2022.
The second consequence of this approach is comprehensive adaptation of the entire range. Almost everywhere where a PowerTube 625 from Bosch was previously to be found, there is now at least one additional model with the 750 watt-hour battery. We see this in this form with only very few manufacturers. In this respect, KTM has done a lot to consolidate its position as one of the dominant brands on the market.
1. KTM Macina Multi 2022: The newcomer
2. KTM Macina Prowler 2022: The downhill monster
3. KTM Macina Kapoho 2022: The all-rounder
4. KTM Macina Lycan 2022: The manoeuvrable one
5. KTM Macina Chacana 2022: The endurance athlete
6. KTM Macina Team 2022: The multifaceted one
7. KTM Macina Aera 2022: The Exotic
8. KTM Macina Cross 2022: The hasty one
9. KTM Macina Sport 2022: The excursionist
10. KTM Macina Style 2022: The outlier
11. KTM Macina Tour 2022: The perennial favourite
12. KTM Macina City 2022: The luxury item
Explained briefly: Here’s what you can read from the product names at KTM
1. KTM Macina Multi 2022: The newcomer
As if the switch to the new Bosch system wasn’t complex enough, KTM is also launching a completely new bike for the 2022 season. With the Macina Multi, the manufacturer is turning to a segment in which it has not been particularly present so far. The Multi is a hybrid of family and cargo bike based on a uniform frame with 24-inch wheels. KTM itself talks about the attempt to create an agile bike that can also carry a lot of cargo. On the one hand, the focus was on the possibility of comfortably transporting small children from A to B within the city. Experience shows that this is increasingly done by women. The manufacturer wanted to give them the feeling of being on a compact bike that they can easily handle at any time. Hence, for example, the decision for the low entrance, the medium-sized wheels and the relatively short wheelbase.
In view of the maximum load of 170 kilograms, this is a real cargo bike. In the Urban version, for example, the KTM Macina Multi has a massive heavy-duty luggage rack, the five-speed Shimano Nexus hub gear system developed for e-cargo bikes and a Gates belt drive. Together with the Bosch performance motor and an optional battery capacity of 1,000 watt-hours, this results in an all-in-one package with which this bike doesn’t need to spare itself from commercial use.
KTM Macina Multi
KTM Macina Multi 2022 at a glance
- Variants: Macina Multi Urban, Macina Multi
- Motor: Bosch Performance (Gen. 3)
- Battery: Bosch PowerPack 500
- Display: Bosch Purion
- Fork: 24” Alloy Transport
- Drivetrain: Shimano Nexus 5, Shimano Deore
- Brakes: Shimano MT420, Shimano MT402
- Maximum load: 170 kg
2. KTM Macina Prowler 2022: The downhill monster
From trail to enduro, the Prowler is the ultimate all-purpose weapon from KTM. This is where the manufacturer really lets off steam and shows what is technically possible nowadays. For an e-mountain bike that is designed to tackle a lot of altitude, the built-in Smart System from Bosch pays off twice over. The new battery with its 750 watt hours is supposed to provide around 20 percent more range. These are well invested in the Prowler.
Within the product range, things are otherwise relatively quiet. Apart from the new Bosch standard, there are no changes to the top model, the KTM Macina Prowler Exonic. But there are minor changes to the other ebikes. On the Prestige, you will also be able to enjoy electronic shifting in future. The Sram GX Eagle AXS groupset replaces the Shimano XTR. The Master comes with a new suspension fork. The Lyric Select from RockShox was replaced by the Domain RC from the same manufacturer. The KTM Macina Prowler Pro is completely new. It is the new entry-level model in this carbon frame-based family. In terms of price and therefore also technically, it fits in below the Master. A look at the gears and brakes reveals a component mix of Shimano Deore and Deore XT. In addition, there are somewhat simpler wheels and a lower-priced shock.
KTM Macina Prowler 2022 at a glance
- Variants: Macina Prowler Exonic, Macina Prowler Prestige, Macina Prowler Master, Macina Prowler Pro
- Motor: Bosch Performance Line CX
- Battery: Bosch PowerTube 750
- Display: Bosch Kiox 300
- Suspension fork: Fox 38 Float Factory, Fox 38 Float Performance, RockShox Domain RC
- Drivetrain: Sram XX1 Eagle AXS, Sram GX Eagle AX, Shimano Deore XT
- Brakes: Shimano MT9100, Shimano MT8100, Shimano MT4100
- Maximum permitted total weight: 120 kg
3. KTM Macina Kapoho 2022: The all-rounder
In terms of concept, the Kapoho is traditionally hardly inferior to the Prowler. The front and rear suspension travel of 160 millimetres is only slightly shorter than on its bigger brother. In addition, the gearing here still works in the classic way without electronic control. However, this does not detract from the riding pleasure. Compared to the Macina Prowler, this bike is perhaps even the better choice if the uphill and downhill sections of your ride are more evenly balanced.
One of the absolute strengths of the Kapoho model series has always been its incredible depth. Similar to the Prowler, KTM tops it off. With the Pro, there is another model whose frame is made of carbon. In this case, however, the difference to the next model up, the Kapoho Elite, is more striking. The Pro still has the Bosch system with last year’s standard, i.e., less range and Bluetooth functionality. Of the four models based on an aluminium frame, three have the new Bosch Smart System. This gives you plenty of choice even in the lower-priced variants.
KTM Macina Kapoho 2022 at a glance
- Variants: Macina Kapoho Prestige, Macina Kapoho Master, Macina Kapoho Elite, Macina Prowler Pro, Macina Kapoho 7971, Macina Kapoho 7972, Macina Kapoho 7973, Macina Kapoho 6971
- Motor: Bosch Performance Line CX
- Battery: Bosch PowerTube 750, Bosch PowerTube 625
- Display: Bosch Kiox 300, Bosch Purion
- Suspension fork: Fox 36 Float Factory, Fox 38 Float Performance, RockShox 35 Gold RL, RockShox 35 Silver TK
- Drivetrain: Shimano Deore XTR, Shimano Deore XT, Sram SX Eagle
- Brakes: Shimano MT9100, Shimano MT8100, Shimano MT6100, Shimano MT4100
- Maximum permitted total weight: 124 kg
4. KTM Macina Lycan 2022: The manoeuvrable one
While the Macina Prowler and Macina Kapoho are designed with a 29-inch front wheel and a 27.5-inch rear wheel, the KTM Macina Lycan is one of the full-suspension E-MTBs that roll along on a uniform wheel size. In the case of the Lycan, it is the 27.5 inch version. The advantage of such a set-up is always the greater manoeuvrability and agility it gives these bikes.
Due to their aluminium frames and 140 millimetres of suspension travel, the Lycan models are regarded as a very popular middle class in the mountain bike segment. So, it’s no wonder that KTM has given a total of four models the upgrade to Bosch’s Smart System. Among them are two bikes with the “Glorious” addition, which are explicitly tailored to the needs of female ebikers. In addition, there is a model for men and a model for women that is equipped with the familiar Bosch drive.
KTM Macina Lycan 2022 at a glance
- Variants: Macina Lycan 771, Macina Lycan 771 Glorious, Macina Lycan 772, Macina Lycan 772 Glorious, Macina Lycan 671, Macina Lycan 671 Glorious
- Motor: Bosch Performance Line CX
- Battery: Bosch PowerTube 750, Bosch PowerTube 625
- Display: Bosch Kiox 300, Bosch Purion
- Suspension fork: Fox 34 Float AWL, SR Suntour XCR34 Air
- Drivetrain: Shimano Deore XT, Shimano Deore
- Brakes: Shimano MT6100, Shimano MT4100
- Maximum permitted total weight: 143 kg
5. KTM Macina Chacana 2022: The endurance athlete
The Chacana is a bit more relaxed. Among the Fully-E MTBs, it has the least suspension travel with 130 millimetres. However, the 29-inch wheels make it easy to get over stones, roots and other obstacles. In general, however, the focus of this bike is not so much on fast sprints over technically demanding terrain. The character of the KTM Macina Chacana is a more balanced one that proves comfortable on longer tours.
The more powerful battery from the Bosch Smart System fits this profile perfectly. With the gain of 125 watt-hours compared to the previously installed PowerTube 625, you can tackle a few more kilometres on your excursions. With the Macina Chacana LFC, KTM also offers a version that is already equipped with mudguards and a rear carrier as standard.
KTM Macina Chacana 2022 at a glance
- Variants: Macina Chacana 791, Macina Chacana 792, Macina Chacana LFC, Macina Chacana 691, Macina Chacana 591
- Motor: Bosch Performance Line CX
- Battery: Bosch PowerTube 750, Bosch PowerTube 625, Bosch PowerTube 500
- Display: Bosch Kiox 300, Bosch Purion
- Suspension fork: Fox 34 Float AWL, RockShox Silver 35 TK, SR Suntour XCR34 Air, SR Suntour XCR34 Coil
- Drivetrain: Shimano Deore XT, Shimano Deore
- Brakes: Shimano MT8100, Shimano MT4100, Shimano MT420, Tektro HD-M535
- Maximum permitted total weight: 140 kg
6. KTM Macina Team 2022: The multifaceted one
The multifaceted nature of the Macina Team increases once again with the 2022 season. The reason for this is the new development stage of the Bosch drive. From now on, there will be a total of 15 models under the roof of this product line.In terms of number, some smaller manufacturers do not achieve this with their entire range. In the case of the Team, these are exclusively mountain bikes without suspension rear triangles, so-called hardtails.
The most difficult thing in this vast range seems to be finding the right bike. Whether 29 inch or 27.5 inch, mountain bike in its pure form or additionally with equipment for road traffic, the latest drive generation from Bosch or already proven versions, special frame geometries for women and for tall people – everything is filled in.
Also worth mentioning is the new component group from Shimano called Linkglide. Specifically designed for the higher loads on the cassette, rear derailleur, chain and shift lever on the ebike, it promises greater durability compared to the previously available products from Shimano. Consequently, the individual parts also weigh a little more. However, the differences are in the range of a few hundred grams. Thanks to the electric assistance, this only plays a minor role. Here, too, you have to look very carefully. Linkglide is not installed throughout the Macina Team product range. Look for the suffix “LG” in the components mentioned.
KTM Macina Team 2022 at a glance
- Variants: Macina Team 791, Macina Team 792, Macina Team 772, Macina Team 793, Macina Team 773, Macina Team XL, Macina Team 692, Macina Team 692 Glorious, Macina Team 672, Macina Team 672 Glorious
- Motor: Bosch Performance Line CX
- Battery: Bosch PowerTube 750, Bosch PowerTube 625, Bosch PowerTube 500
- Display: Bosch Kiox 300, Bosch Purion
- Suspension fork: Fox 34 Float AWL, RockShox Recon Silver RL, SR Suntour XCR34 Coil, SR Suntour XCR34 Air
- Drivetrain: Shimano Deore XT, Shimano Deore
- Brakes: Shimano MT8100, Shimano MT4100, Shimano MT420, Tektro HD-M535, Shimano MT200
- Maximum permitted total weight: 141 kg
7. KTM Macina Aera 2022: The Exotic
Another hardtail, but of a completely different nature, is the KTM Macina Aera. The predecessor of this year’s top model, the Macina Aera 271 LFC, won a test in June by the editors of ADAC Motorwelt. This bike is still in the range under a slightly different name. It is now called the KTM Macina Aera 671 LFC PTS. Its equipment has only been slightly adapted. The drive components have been upgraded to the Linkglide groupset from Shimano. In addition, the Smart Sam tyres from Schwalbe have given way to the slightly more off-road capable Johnny Watts from the same brand.
At the top of this model range are two other models for the 2022 season. Both the new Macina Aera 771 LFC and the new Macina Aera 772 LFC feature Bosch’s Smart System with its longer range battery and improved connectivity. In the case of these two bikes, however, KTM has made a compromise. Their heart, the frame, is different from the one on the Aera 671 LFC PTS. The reason for this was the new Bosch battery, which is also larger in terms of dimensions. Apparently, it did not fit into the low-step frame with the higher and reinforced chain stay. This Power Tube Sport frame, PTS for short, is only found on bikes with the PowerTube 625 from Bosch. In contrast, the new Trekking Onroad frame of the Aera 771 LFC and Aera 772 LFC has the advantage that the battery is completely integrated into the down tube. On the PTS, the upper part protrudes slightly from the down tube. This feature makes it easy to tell the variants apart visually.
KTM Macina Aera 2022 at a glance
- Variants: Macina Aera 771 LFC, Macina Aera 772 LFC, Macina Aera 671 LFC PTS, Macina Aera 671 PTS, Macina Aera 571 LFC
- Motor: Bosch Performance Line CX
- Battery: Bosch PowerTube 750, Bosch PowerTube 625, Bosch PowerTube 500
- Display: Bosch Kiox 300, Bosch Intuvia
- Suspension fork: Fox 34 Float AWL, SR Suntour XCR34 Air, SR Suntour XCM32 Coil
- Drivetrain: Shimano Deore XT, Shimano Deore
- Brakes: Shimano MT8100, Tektro HD-M535, Tektro HD-T390
- Maximum permitted total weight: 145 kg
8. KTM Macina Cross 2022: The hasty one
Among fans of trekking ebikes, KTM traditionally enjoys an excellent reputation. Conversely, this segment is one of the strongest in terms of sales for the manufacturer. Consequently, the new development stage of the Bosch drive has also found its way here on a broad scale.
With their 28-inch wheels, narrower, slightly treaded tyres and no lights, mudguards or rear carrier, cross ebikes are considered the sportiest interpretation of trekking bikes. The motto here is to make similarly fast progress on and off the road. To make this fast-paced pleasure last even longer, KTM has equipped three of seven Macina Cross models with the Bosch Smart System for the coming season. Our tip for all frequent riders who don’t mind wind and weather: take a look at the KTM Macina Cross LFC. It is not only the only fully equipped model with everything you need for year-round use on the road. It is also the only ebike in this range to feature Shimano’s Linkglide components, which promise less wear and tear.
KTM Macina Cross 2022 at a glance
- Variants: Macina Cross 710, Macina Cross LFC, Macina Cross 720, Macina Cross 510, Macina Cross 510 PTS, Macina Cross P510, Macina Cross A410
- Motor: Bosch Performance Line CX, Bosch Performance Line, Bosch Active Plus
- Battery: Bosch PowerTube 750, Bosch PowerTube 625, Bosch PowerTube 500, Bosch PowerPack 400
- Display: Bosch Kiox 300, Bosch Intuvia, Bosch Purion
- Suspension fork: RockShox Paragon Gold RL Air, SR Suntour NX1 Coil, SR Suntour NEX-E25
- Drivetrain: Shimano Deore XT, Shimano Deore, Shimano Alivio, Shimano Altus
- Brakes: Shimano MT420, Shimano MT200
- Maximum permitted total weight: 140 kg
9. KTM Macina Sport 2022: The excursionist
If you like to go on longer tours and are often on the road with fully packed bags, you might end up with the classic trekking bikes from KTM. The KTM Macina Sport is undoubtedly one of them. Here, full equipment is the order of the day. In addition to mudguards, a complete lighting system, a side stand and a proper rear carrier, the smooth-running, puncture-proof Schwalbe Marathon Mondial with its reflective stripes on the side are the hallmark of these models’ touring character.
This concept will continue in the 2022 season. New are the top models Macina Sport 710 and Macina Sport 720. Once again, it is primarily the latest version of the Bosch drive together with the stable Linkglide components that make the difference to the other models. If you are looking for a low-step bike, you will inevitably end up with the bikes with slightly smaller Bosch batteries. The variants with 750 watt hours are only available in the diamond and trapezoid frame shapes.
KTM Macina Sport 2022 at a glance
- Variants: Macina Sport 710, Macina Sport 720, Macina Sport 630, Macina Sport 630 PTS, Macina Sport 510, Macina Sport 510 PTS
- Motor: Bosch Performance Line CX
- Battery: Bosch PowerTube 750, Bosch PowerTube 625, Bosch PowerTube 500
- Display: Bosch Kiox 300, Bosch Intuvia
- Suspension fork: SR Suntour NCX-D Air, SR Suntour NX1 Coil
- Drivetrain: Shimano Deore XT, Shimano Deore, Shimano Alivio
- Brakes: Shimano MT8100, Shimano MT420, Shimano MT200
- Maximum permitted total weight: 140 kg
10. KTM Macina Style 2022: The outlier
KTM has completely revamped its Macina Style range. You’ll find every essential new feature on all four models. So if you’re only satisfied with the maximum, you’ve come to the right place. The interaction of more battery capacity with the shifting components, which are designed to withstand the stresses of the ebike more permanently, should pay off especially in the long run. Covering more kilometres and still not having to replace parts or go to the workshop more often – that will certainly be worth the investment in one of these bikes for some people.
As before, the new models for 2022 include one that is specially designed for tall people with a body height of 1.95 metres or more. From the frame to more stable wheels to a reinforced suspension seatpost, the KTM Macina Style XL has corresponding special features. In this configuration, the bike is also suitable for those with a little more body weight.
KTM Macina Style 2022 at a glance
- Variants: Macina Style 710, Macina Style 720, Macina Style 730, Macina Style XL
- Motor: Bosch Performance Line CX
- Battery: Bosch PowerTube 750
- Display: Bosch Kiox 300
- Suspension fork: SR Suntour NCX-E Air, SR Suntour NX1 Coil
- Drivetrain: Shimano Deore XT, Shimano Deore
- Brakes: Shimano MT8100, Shimano MT420, Shimano MT200
- Maximum permitted total weight: 144 kg
11. KTM Macina Tour 2022: The perennial favourite
For those who prefer tried and tested technology, the Macina Tour series is the perfect choice. It is, so to speak, the counter-design to the new Macina Style bikes. KTM has given preference to the previous Bosch system. In other words, PowerTube with a maximum of 625 watt hours, Performance Line CX motor of the second development stage and displays with the usual functionality.
The advantages of this approach are obvious. When put together, the bikes have already proven that they work. At first glance, the shorter range might seem to be a disadvantage. On the one hand, however, the 625 watt hours were the ultimate until recently and are certainly fully sufficient for many e-bikers. On the other hand, there is the option of a second battery. At the moment, this is not yet available for the Bosch Smart System. Therefore, the maximum possible 1,125 watt hours would be far more than you would have available with a Macina Style.
It also opens up the possibility of using the larger Nyon display, which KTM also does on the top model KTM Macina Tour range. In addition, some of the 2022 models are upgraded with the Linkglide shifting group from Shimano.
KTM Macina Tour 2022 at a glance
- Variants: Macina Tour CX 610 Nyon, Macina Tour CX 610, Macina Tour CX 510, Macina Tour P610, Macina Tour P510
- Motor: Bosch Performance Line CX, Bosch Performance Line
- Battery: Bosch PowerTube 625, Bosch PowerTube 500
- Display: Bosch Nyon, Bosch Intuvia
- Suspension fork: SR Suntour NX1 Coil
- Drivetrain: Shimano Deore, Shimano Alivio
- Brakes: Shimano MT8100, Shimano MT420, Shimano MT200
- Maximum permitted total weight: 144 kg
12. KTM Macina City 2022: The luxury item
Cycling comfortably through the city on an extremely reliable ebike – these are the qualities of the KTM Macina City. In this case, the novelties are limited to the future top model, the KTM Macina City 710 Belt. Last season, you could ride a version of this urban low-step with the enormously stable 5-speed hub gear from Shimano and a belt drive from Gates. Now the manufacturer has topped it off by installing a stepless automatic gear system from Enviolo on its flagship. More is hardly possible on this type of bicycle. Especially since the more flexible Smart System from Bosch is added, whose larger battery gives you more range.
After the Macina Team and the Macina Style, the Macina City is the third model series to feature a version designed for tall people with a heavier body weight. Once again, detail changes to the frame together with specially selected components ensure that you feel comfortable and safe on the bike even with above-average body dimensions.
KTM Macina City 2022 at a glance
- Variants: Macina City 710 Belt, Macina City 610 XL, Macina City 610 Belt, Macina City P610 RT, Macina City P610, Macina City A510 RT, Macina City A510
- Motor: Bosch Performance Line CX, Bosch Performance Line, Bosch Active Plus
- Battery: Bosch PowerTube 750, Bosch PowerTube 625, Bosch PowerTube 500
- Display: Bosch Kiox 300, Bosch Intuvia
- Suspension fork: SR Suntour NCX-E Air, SR Suntour NX1 Coil
- Drivetrain: Enviolo TR, Shimano Nexus 5
- Brakes: Magura CT Disc, Tektro HD-T390, Shimano MT410, Shimano MT200
- Maximum permitted total weight: 145 kg
Explained briefly: Here’s what you can read from the product names at KTM
In the 2022 season, KTM is once again represented on the market with seemingly countless ebikes. One model series sometimes includes up to 15 differently equipped bikes. This makes it anything but easy to keep track of them all. It’s a little easier if you know what you’re looking for from the names of the models. They follow a uniform pattern and provide important information about the technical features.
Typically, KTM names its bikes according to two schemes.
1. Brand name + model name + name suffix
Example: KTM Macina Prowler Master
All bikes named according to this pattern are based on a carbon frame. As soon as numbers come into play, we are talking about an aluminium frame, as KTM does not currently use any other materials to build frames.
The additions indicate which bike has the top equipment, which follows, etc. The order from top to bottom is as follows:
- Exonic
- Prestige
- Master
- Elite
- Pro
2. Brand name + model name + number + possible addition
Example: KTM Macina Team 771
The second variant of the product name is a combination of words and numbers. The part with the words is probably self-explanatory. The numbers are more complex. The first digit tells you the capacity of the built-in battery. The “7” corresponds to the 750 watt hours of the new Bosch energy cell. Since this has so far only been installed in the Smart System, you also find out that this bike is equipped with the Bosch novelty. This automatically results in the Performance CX motor and the Kiox 300 display. Unfortunately, this only works for the models of the 2022 season. As soon as Bosch also releases a smaller battery for the Smart System with, for example, 625 or 500 watt hours, this will no longer work.
The second digit indicates the wheel size. “7” means 27.5 inches. If the bike has two differently sized wheels, KTM indicates this with two digits. For example, the KTM Macina Kapoho 7971 has a 29-inch front wheel and a 27.5-inch rear wheel – “97”. The last digit describes the value of the other components such as suspension fork, shock, gears, brakes, etc. The “1” symbolises the top level. Corresponding gradations then indicate the “2” and the “3”.
Deviations
What else is there? In rare cases, the number in the model name is preceded by a letter. Or even two. This is the case with the KTM Macina Tour CX 510, for example. The letters indicate the motor installed on the bike. Clearly, “CX” stands for the Bosch Performance CX motor.
If you have been paying attention up to this point, you will be surprised at the number 510. Okay, the “5” stands for a battery with 500 watt hours. But which wheel size is hidden behind the “1”? And is “0” now suddenly the best equipment. Not quite. As soon as a whole model series comes with 28-inch wheels, the wheel size is no longer indicated in the product name. Instead, the technical gradation is indicated there with two digits. The “10” is the top end value, the “30” the bottom.
Often you will also encounter additions after the number block. Fortunately, there are only two in the models of the 2022 season. The addition “LFC” comes from English. It is the abbreviation for light, fender and carrier. If, on the other hand, the suffix “Glorious” appears after the number, you can tell that this is a bike specially designed for women.
That’s quite a label, isn’t it? But don’t worry, you don’t have to know it by heart. Instead, here is a place where you can read it again if you need to.
Pictures: KTM Fahrrad GmbH